Here is a unique overview of Geometrical Optics that presents a first-principles treatment for students. The practical development of this topic has been used in several courses at Georgia Tech, although some of the text was developed over 20 years ago.
Scattering and Computer Graphics
In this set of notes, an electromagnetic model of rough surface scattering is presented, with analogies drawn to rendering and shading models in computer graphics. Although this originates in an RF-centric modeling class, the analogy to optics is helpful for understanding this phenomenon. The end contains an interesting biographical paragraph on the inventor of the Phong shading model as well as some illustrative renderings of spheres.
High-Voltage Plasma Effects on Antennas
In 2013, Marcin Morys put together an excellent study in channel measurement and modeling of coronating antennas in high-voltage environments. In general, there was (and still is) a lack of understanding of high-voltage effects on antennas by a profession that wishes to proliferate “smart grid” sensors on power lines and high-voltage equipment. Morys’ comprehensive study in theory and practical measurement was the most complete treatment of the otherwise neglected field of antennas at high voltage. In particular, the effects of corona and both the noise processes and radiation alteration caused by these high-voltage plasmas proved to be one of the most original contributions of not only Morys’ work, but the lab in general. Download the following set of notes on the subject of plasma antennas.
RF Band Chart
Ever had trouble navigating the Byzantine nomenclature for RF frequency bands used by engineers? I though I would post a link to this helpful chart, which my students have found helpful in the past. Download the following RF band chart.