Comparison of errors and stability in FDTD and FVTD

Abstract. The methods of finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) and finite-volume time-domain (FVTD) are well known techniques for solving electromagnetic problems. While for FDTD a number of commercial codes is available there are only few based on FVTD. However, FVTD has advantages since it allows completely unstructured meshes. This paper 1. deals with the principle errors made in both approaches and 2. gives a theoretical comparison of the (local) stability of an FVTD scheme as opposed to the conventional Yee-scheme commonly used in FDTD. Finally the principles of a new FVTD program is presented. Its capabilities are demonstrated by the field of an antenna array.