Vector Fields releases a new version of its Concerto software tool for high-frequency electromagnetic design. Concerto v7 includes 64-bit PC processing support, better distributed processing of simulations, greatly improved support for exploiting periodicity in designs, and a highly innovative optimization tool that intelligently applies multiple algorithms to resolve even the most complex of problems. The tool provides a 2D or 3D design-simulate-analyze-optimize toolchain for high-frequency electromagnetic applications. Component or system models can be created using a integrated geometric modeler, or imported from CAD programs. CAD formats supported include CATIA, ProEngineer, IGES. SAT and STEP.

When a design model is ready, users have a choice of methods to characterize performance. As standard, Concerto offers a Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) simulator, which has broad ranging applicability. Depending on the application, users can add two further simulation options. A Method of Moments (MoM) tool provides a very good platform for simulating large environment problems such as installed antenna performance. A Finite Element Method (FEM) tool offers an elegant means of performing eigenvalue analysis for problems such as characterizing microwave resonator and cavity designs. Concerto's applications span the high frequency spectrum and include antennas, waveguides, cavities and resonators, filters, connectors, microwave heating, and radar systems and signatures.

Concerto v7 is available immediately in a range of 2D and 3D versions, starting from around £2500 / $4750. As well as high end performance, Vector Fields offers a number of low-cost entry-level configurations. Concerto AS has been specially developed to provide a low cost solution for designing axisymmetric co-axial junctions. Concerto ES provides a low cost entry point to full 3D functionality by limiting the number of finite difference cells.