Electromagnetic waves form the basis of many modern technologies – from wireless communication systems and radar applications to waveguides and antennas, optical fibers, thin-film devices, metamaterials, and numerical simulation methods. This textbook offers a sound yet highly accessible introduction to this fascinating field. It is intended for advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, researchers, and engineers working in high-frequency, microwave, and communication technology.
Starting with transmission line theory, the book guides readers step by step through Maxwell’s equations, boundary conditions, plane waves, polarization, wave propagation in conducting media, and interface phenomena such as total internal reflection. Building on this foundation, it covers metallic and dielectric waveguides, antenna theory, and antenna arrays. It also highlights how the current distribution of an antenna is related to its radiation pattern – elegantly described using the Fourier transform. Further topics include the propagation of electromagnetic waves in real radio communication environments, including ionized and magnetized media, and the Luxembourg Effect.
Emphasis is placed on clarity, intuition, and physical understanding. Numerous solved examples, exercises for independent study, and conceptual review questions support self-directed learning and help readers develop a deeper understanding of the subject. The presentation is complemented by many proven circuits as well as detailed illustrations and drawings that make complex relationships visible and significantly deepen understanding. An extensive mathematical appendix supports the main text and makes the book self-contained.
Both authors are well-recognized specialists in high-frequency technology, microwave engineering, and electromagnetic wave propagation. Ulrich L. Rohde, a well-known Radio Amateur with lots of antenna experience also brings knowledge from publishing more than a dozen microwave related text books, while Raghunath K. Shevgaonkar has authored two widely used textbooks. With their many years of experience in teaching, research, and engineering practice, the two professors present a book that builds a strong foundation and serves professionals as a valuable, practice-oriented reference.