"Conquer Radio Frequency" Online Training

RF and microwave engineering has been aptly described as a "black art." Even for those who have a deep understanding of the concepts, there is still an element of mystery involved, particularly when it comes to troubleshooting misbehaved circuits or systems. When frequencies are high and wavelengths are so short that everything conductive becomes an antenna absorbing and conducting or reflecting signals elsewhere, tracking down a source can be like feeling you way around a house of mirrors at an amusement park while looking for the exit. Fortunately, someone like Francesco Fornetti, at Explore RF, not only grasps the concepts but also has the ability to develop training materials to give a hand up to those who are new to the field of RF or are looking to review and re-learn the principles.

Mr. Fornetti, who recently published a tutorial titled CONQUER RADIO FREQUENCY. A Multimedia Conceptual Guide to RF & Microwave Engineering, Based on AWR Microwave Office Video Tutorials, and for which I created a 10-question RF Cafe Quiz, now has placed the entire course online for your convenience. "This material, which includes a full-color textbook and over 12 hours of video tutorials, provides a comprehensive guide for the RF and Microwave engineering student or junior professional. It allows the reader to achieve a good understanding of the foundation theory and concepts behind high frequency circuits as well illustrating the most common design and simulation techniques for passive and active RF circuits. The combination of textbook and video tutorials gives the reader a great conceptual and visual insight into the world of RF and Microwave Engineering." Examples of the videos can be found at the Explore RF website.

Once you have registered for access to the training portal you will be able to download the e-book version of "Conquer Radio Frequency" in PDF format. You will also get access to the video tutorials as streaming videos. Please note that you will be NOT be able to download the videos! How much does it cost? You can get access to the material for 6 months for only $29.99.

As a powerful and influential member of the RF/microwave media, I have been provided with complimentary access to the website for the purpose of doing this promotion. To the right is a screen capture of the set of videos provided for "Chapter 3 - Foundations of RF & Microwave Circuit Characterization." As with most other videos, circuits are actually built and simulated in the AWR Microwave Office environment so that you receive a step-by-step progression through the process (see screen shot to left). If you are new to any sophisticated simulation software, finding your way around all the setup and simulation options can be a daunting task. Sitting in a classroom for a few days and trying desperately to absorb all the new information while entering circuits into a computer and trying to get simulations to run properly can be extremely frustrating. This course allows you to work at your own pace and benefit from the ability to go back and review instructions.

If you would rather have a spiral-bound hard copy of Conquer Radio Frequency with a DVD that includes all the videos and the PDF version of the book, it is available from Amazon.com for $99.99.

Posted  April 7, 2014