LCX File Format Definition

The file is structured as a sequential collection of segments, and each segment is composed of a set of records. Different segment types are used to store different types of model data. Generally only one segment of a particular type is present in a file, but it's also possible to have duplication.

In the case of the duplication of a list segment (see below for the a description of the types of segments), the lists are concatenated when read. Duplicated parameter segments are combined when read to create a single set of parameters, with identical parameters listed later in the file overwriting parameters given earlier. The header segment should not be duplicated.

The segments, as well as the records within the segments, are usually present in the order described in this document.

For the curious, the term "LCX" comes from "LC export file format". The original file format used by LC was a binary format which was not easily transported between computer architectures. This format was known as the "LC model file" format. The export format was developed to facilitate the interchange of LC models between computer architectures. It is now the default file format for LC, and the binary file format is deprecated.

The file suffix for LCX format files is ".lcx". The MIME type is "application/x-lc".

1.1 Header Segment

The header segment is a type of parameter segment. It is always present as the first segment of any file. Its parameters describe and document to the file itself.

1.2 List Segments

Some segment types contain a list of similar items. These list segments may be omitted if there are no items to be listed. A list may contain an arbitrary number of items, and therefore list segments are varible size.

1.3 Parameter Segments

Another type of segment, a parameter segment, contains parameters for a specific purpose which apply to the model as a whole. If a parameter segment is missing from a file, then default values are assumed.

1.4 Record Format

Each record in the file is an ASCII-coded text line which starts with a keyword and may be followed by a parameter.

Most parameters are of one of the three simple types: a text string, an decimal integer number, or a decimal floating point value expressed in scientific notation. A few parameters are structured into several fields; these special parameter formats are described later in this document.

Many of the integer parameters represent enumerated types. Each unique value, usually starting with 0 and numbered sequentially, corresponds to a particular subclass. A list of the allowed values for the enumated types and their meanings is given in the Enumerations section of this document.

1.5 The end Keyword

The end keyword without a parameter is used to terminate a segment. The end keyword with a parameter is used to terminate an item in a list of items. The parameter is a keyword itself, and identifies the type of item being terminated.

1.6 Unrecognized Keywords

New keywords can be added to the file format, or old ones removed, without requiring the version number of the file format to change. Programs processing an LCX file usually don't regard missing or extra information as a fatal error. This convention provides for some level of upward compatibility (new software reading files written by old software) and downward compatibility (old software reading files written by new software).

2 File Segments

The file is divided into segments, each containing data relevant to a specific purpose. Each segment is introduced by a unique keyword.

The file header segment must be the first in the file. The other segments may come in any order. For the list segments, omission indicates that there are no items in the list. For parameter segments, omission indicates that the default parameters should be used.

Segment Type Keyword Usage

File header LCX Mandatory

Material list materials Optional

Block list blocks Optional

Dialog list dialogs Optional

Pulse list pulses Optional

Sweep list sweeps Optional

Calculation list calculations Optional

Multiport list multiports Optional

Plane Wave Source list planes Optional

Model parameters model_parameters Optional

Mesh parameters mesh_parameters Optional

Plot parameters plot_parameters Optional

Sequence parameters seq_parameters Optional

Far field parameters far_parameters Optional

Segment Type	Keyword	Usage
File header	LCX	Mandatory
Material list	materials	Optional
Block list	blocks	Optional
Dialog list	dialogs	Optional
Pulse list	pulses	Optional
Sweep list	sweeps	Optional
Calculation list	calculations	Optional
Multiport list	multiports	Optional
Plane Wave Source list	planes	Optional
Model parameters	model_parameters	Optional
Mesh parameters	mesh_parameters	Optional
Plot parameters	plot_parameters	Optional
Sequence parameters	seq_parameters	Optional
Far field parameters	far_parameters	Optional

2.1 File Header Segment

The file header segment serves to identify the LCX file type and provide some information about its origin.

Although the header segment itself is required, all of the records except the first (LCX) and last (end) are optional. The records in the header are for informational purposes, and do not effect the simulation of the model.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
LCX	none	Every LCX file starts with a line containing the string "LCX" followed by a newline character.
model_name	string	The filename of the model.
magic_number	integer	The LC magic number. The magic number is 1279459328.
version_number	integer	The version number of this file format. The current version number is 1.
architecture	integer	The architecture number of the computer that wrote this file.
creator_name	string	The name of the user that first saved this model.
creation_time	integer	The time the model was first saved, expressed as the number of seconds since midnight, January 1, 1970.
modifier_name	string	The name of the user that last saved this model.
modification_time	integer	The time the file was last saved, expressed as the number of seconds since midnight, January 1, 1970.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

Example

LCX
model_name lhole.lcx
magic_number 1279459328
version_number 1
architecture 2
creator_name
creation_time 780093601
modifier_name kjt
modification_time 878772849
end

2.2 Material List Segment

The material list segment provides a list of the materials which are defined in the model. Each geometry block of the model are be composed of one of the materials defined in the material list segment.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
materials	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

A list of any number of material definitions can appear between the materials and end records. Each list item has the follow format.

Keyword Parameter Description

name string Name of the material.

permittivity real Relative electric permittivity of the material.

conductivity real Electric conductivity of the material.

permeability real Relative magnetic permeability of the material.

color integer The default color number of the material.

end "material" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
name	string	Name of the material.
permittivity	real	Relative electric permittivity of the material.
conductivity	real	Electric conductivity of the material.
permeability	real	Relative magnetic permeability of the material.
color	integer	The default color number of the material.
end	"material"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

materials
name air
permittivity   1.0000e+00
conductivity   0.0000e+00
permeability   1.0000e+00
color 19
end material
name metal
permittivity   1.0000e+00
conductivity   3.2700e+07
permeability   1.0000e+00
color 13
end material
end

2.3 Block List Segment

The block list segment contains the blocks of geometry which defines the material composition of the model space, plus block definitions for source excitation, loads, and probes to monitor and record the simulation results.

Since the block list segment contains a heterogeneous list of block types, it is the most complexly formatted segment. There is a set of parameters which are common to all blocks, defined in the Common Block Keywords section. Every block in the list begins with this common set of parameters, but is extended with specialized parameters for the specific block type.

A list of any number of block definitions can appear between the blocks and end records. Each list item begins with a block_type record, which defines the type of the block, and ends with a end block_type record.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
blocks	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

Example

blocks
block_type 1
id 1
name grid
color 19
fill_pattern 7
visible 1
min   0.000000e+00  -7.000000e+00  -4.000000e+00
max   5.000000e+01   2.300000e+01   1.200000e+01
material air
shape 1
axis 0
end geometry
end

2.3.1 Common Block Keywords

Each block definition begins with a set of parameters which are common to all types of blocks.

Keyword Parameter Description

block_type integer Block data type. This value identifies the specific type of this block, and therefore indicates the possible keywords for this item.

id integer A sequential number assigned to the block. The first block in the list is block 1.

name string Name of the block.

color integer The color number of the block.

fill_pattern integer The fill pattern number of the block. This pattern defines the block's visual transparency.

visible integer A non-zero value indicates that the block is visible.

min coordinate A list of three floating point values which define the minimum coordinate of the block bounding box.

max coordinate A list of three floating point values which define the maximum coordinate of the block bounding box.

end string Keyword marking the end of the item. The value of the string identifies the type of block.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
block_type	integer	Block data type. This value identifies the specific type of this block, and therefore indicates the possible keywords for this item.
id	integer	A sequential number assigned to the block. The first block in the list is block 1.
name	string	Name of the block.
color	integer	The color number of the block.
fill_pattern	integer	The fill pattern number of the block. This pattern defines the block's visual transparency.
visible	integer	A non-zero value indicates that the block is visible.
min	coordinate	A list of three floating point values which define the minimum coordinate of the block bounding box.
max	coordinate	A list of three floating point values which define the maximum coordinate of the block bounding box.
end	string	Keyword marking the end of the item. The value of the string identifies the type of block.

2.3.2 Geometry Block Keywords

Geometry blocks define the material parameters of within the model space. During a simulation, these blocks are broken down into cells, and each cell takes on the material parameters of its parent block.

Blocks may overlap in space, and the assignment of the cell material parameters is set by a block priority. Blocks given early in the list are overwritten by the blocks given later in the list. Thus, the first blocks in the list has the lowest priority, and the last block has the highest priority.

Keyword Parameter Description

block_type integer The geometry block data type (1).

material string Name of the material of the block.

shape integer The shape of the geometry block.

axis integer The alignment axis of the block (used for the cylinder shape only).

end "geometry" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
block_type	integer	The geometry block data type (1).
material	string	Name of the material of the block.
shape	integer	The shape of the geometry block.
axis	integer	The alignment axis of the block (used for the cylinder shape only).
end	"geometry"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

block_type 1
id 1
name grid
color 19
fill_pattern 7
visible 1
min   0.000000e+00  -7.000000e+00  -4.000000e+00
max   5.000000e+01   2.300000e+01   1.200000e+01
material air
shape 1
axis 0
end geometry

2.3.3 Load Block Keywords

Load blocks create simple single port loads within the model space. FDTD loads are coded using special field updates within the load region. SPICE loads are implemented by executing the SPICE circuit simulation program during the electromagnetic simulation.

More complex loads can be created using port blocks along with multiport loads.

Keyword Parameter Description

block_type integer The load block data type (2).

load_type integer The load type of the block.

orientation string The alignment direction of the block.

resistance real The resistance of the FDTD load. Not used for SPICE loads.

capacitance real Unused, but reserved for future use in FDTD loads.

inductance real Unused, but reserved for future use in FDTD loads.

conductance real Unused, but reserved for future use in FDTD loads.

spice_file string The file name path of the SPICE circuit file for a SPICE load.

spice_node string The SPICE node number for a SPICE load. The load is assumed to be connected between ground (node 0) and this node.

end "load" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
block_type	integer	The load block data type (2).
load_type	integer	The load type of the block.
orientation	string	The alignment direction of the block.
resistance	real	The resistance of the FDTD load. Not used for SPICE loads.
capacitance	real	Unused, but reserved for future use in FDTD loads.
inductance	real	Unused, but reserved for future use in FDTD loads.
conductance	real	Unused, but reserved for future use in FDTD loads.
spice_file	string	The file name path of the SPICE circuit file for a SPICE load.
spice_node	string	The SPICE node number for a SPICE load. The load is assumed to be connected between ground (node 0) and this node.
end	"load"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

block_type 2
id 11
name term
color 4
fill_pattern 0
visible 1
min   9.500000e+01   1.000000e+01   1.000000e+00
max   9.500000e+01   1.000000e+01   2.000000e+00
load_type 1
orientation 3
resistance   0.0000e+00
capacitance   0.0000e+00
inductance   0.0000e+00
conductance   0.0000e+00
spice_file r50.sp
spice_node 1
end load

2.3.4 Probe Block Keywords

Probe blocks monitor the electromagnetic field values during a simulation. The results can be displayed or saved for later analysis.

Probes come in a variety of forms, and not all of the probe block keywords apply to all of the forms. It is customary, but not required, that all of the records are present for each probe block, even if it has no meaning for the probe form. Default parameter values are specified for these extra records.

Keyword Parameter Description

block_type integer The probe block data type (3).

output_type integer The probe output type of the probe.

component integer The component type of the vector field output. Applicable for electric or magnetic field intensity, current density, or power density output types.

direction integer The direction of the voltage, current, or magnetic flux output.

value_type integer The value type of the probe.

form_type integer The form type of the probe.

orientation string The alignment direction for a line or plane probe.

show_output integer If non-zero, then the probe output is displayed as the simulation runs.

save_output integer If non-zero, then the probe output is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.

filename string The output file name, or output file name pattern.

time_factor integer The number of time steps to run the simulation before calculating a new probe value. The default value of 0 indicates that the probe should be calculated for every time step.

space_factor integer The increment used during a probe output of a line, plane, or surface probe. The default value of 0 indicates that every cell should be used.

magnitude integer If non-zero, then the absolute value of the output is calculated.

range_min real The minimum value of the probe to be displayed. For point and line probes, this is the Y-axis minimum value. For plane and surface probes, this is the value assigned to the color blue. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum probe value each time the probe display is updated.

range_max real The maximum value of the probe to be displayed. For point and line probes, this is the Y-axis maximum value. For plane and surface probes, this is the value assigned to the color red.

range_noise real Probe values whose magnitude is lower than the range noise are discarded from the color shading algorithm, and are displayed with the color black.

dialog_x integer The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line probes.

dialog_y integer The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line probes.

dialog_w integer The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. It is only significant for point and line probes.

dialog_h integer The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. It is only significant for point and line probes.

plane_format integer The output format for a plane probe.

image_scale integer The scale factor for the plane probe output image. The default value of 1 saves one pixel for each grid point of the probe.

end "probe" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
block_type	integer	The probe block data type (3).
output_type	integer	The probe output type of the probe.
component	integer	The component type of the vector field output. Applicable for electric or magnetic field intensity, current density, or power density output types.
direction	integer	The direction of the voltage, current, or magnetic flux output.
value_type	integer	The value type of the probe.
form_type	integer	The form type of the probe.
orientation	string	The alignment direction for a line or plane probe.
show_output	integer	If non-zero, then the probe output is displayed as the simulation runs.
save_output	integer	If non-zero, then the probe output is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.
filename	string	The output file name, or output file name pattern.
time_factor	integer	The number of time steps to run the simulation before calculating a new probe value. The default value of 0 indicates that the probe should be calculated for every time step.
space_factor	integer	The increment used during a probe output of a line, plane, or surface probe. The default value of 0 indicates that every cell should be used.
magnitude	integer	If non-zero, then the absolute value of the output is calculated.
range_min	real	The minimum value of the probe to be displayed. For point and line probes, this is the Y-axis minimum value. For plane and surface probes, this is the value assigned to the color blue. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum probe value each time the probe display is updated.
range_max	real	The maximum value of the probe to be displayed. For point and line probes, this is the Y-axis maximum value. For plane and surface probes, this is the value assigned to the color red.
range_noise	real	Probe values whose magnitude is lower than the range noise are discarded from the color shading algorithm, and are displayed with the color black.
dialog_x	integer	The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line probes.
dialog_y	integer	The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line probes.
dialog_w	integer	The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. It is only significant for point and line probes.
dialog_h	integer	The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the probe. It is only significant for point and line probes.
plane_format	integer	The output format for a plane probe.
image_scale	integer	The scale factor for the plane probe output image. The default value of 1 saves one pixel for each grid point of the probe.
end	"probe"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

block_type 3
id 7
name VOLTAGE(SOLID)
color 26
fill_pattern 0
visible 1
min   1.000000e+01   8.000000e+00   1.000000e+00
max   1.000000e+01   8.000000e+00   2.000000e+00
output_type 5
component 3
direction 3
value_type 1
form_type 1
orientation 0
show_output 0
save_output 1
filename gnd_v.xy
time_factor 0
space_factor 0
magnitude 0
range_min   0.0000e+00
range_max   0.0000e+00
range_noise   0.0000e+00
dialog_x 0
dialog_y 0
dialog_w 0
dialog_h 0
plane_format 1
image_scale 1
end probe

2.3.5 Source Block Keywords

Source blocks provide excitation for the model during the simulation.

Sources take on a new value for each time step of the simulation (the value of the source waveform), and in this way are similar to point probes. Sources have many of the same output parameters as point probes; sources can be displayed in graphical form, and saved to a file for later analysis.

Keyword Parameter Description

block_type integer The source block data type (4).

waveform integer The source waveform type.

excitation integer The source excitation type.

direction integer The direction of the voltage or current source.

peak_value real The maximum value of the source waveform.

center_frequency real The modulation frequency of the modulated gaussian pulse.

high_frequency real The high frequency at which the modulated gaussian pulse falls to 1/e of its peak value.

sin_frequency real The frequency of the sinusoidal source waveform.

rise_time real The rise time of the gaussian or ramp pulse.

duration real The duration of the peak value of the pulse.

fall_time real The fall time of the gaussian or ramp pulse. If zero, then the fall time is assumed to be the same as the rise time.

in_file string The input filename for a user-defined source waveform.

show_output integer If non-zero, then the source value is displayed as the simulation runs.

save_output integer If non-zero, then the source value is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.

out_file string The output file name.

start_time real The starting time of the pulse, or the spacing between pulses of a pulse train.

resistance real The resistance of the source. The default resistance of a hard source is 0 while the source is active.

range_min real The Y-axis minimum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.

range_max real The Y-axis maximum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.

range_noise real Unused, but reserved for future use.

dialog_x integer The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.

dialog_y integer The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.

dialog_w integer The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.

dialog_h integer The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.

pulse_train integer If non-zero, then repeat this source continuously.

hard_source integer If non-zero, then the source is a hard source.

trunc_source integer If non-zero, then the source is a truncated source.

end "source" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
block_type	integer	The source block data type (4).
waveform	integer	The source waveform type.
excitation	integer	The source excitation type.
direction	integer	The direction of the voltage or current source.
peak_value	real	The maximum value of the source waveform.
center_frequency	real	The modulation frequency of the modulated gaussian pulse.
high_frequency	real	The high frequency at which the modulated gaussian pulse falls to 1/e of its peak value.
sin_frequency	real	The frequency of the sinusoidal source waveform.
rise_time	real	The rise time of the gaussian or ramp pulse.
duration	real	The duration of the peak value of the pulse.
fall_time	real	The fall time of the gaussian or ramp pulse. If zero, then the fall time is assumed to be the same as the rise time.
in_file	string	The input filename for a user-defined source waveform.
show_output	integer	If non-zero, then the source value is displayed as the simulation runs.
save_output	integer	If non-zero, then the source value is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.
out_file	string	The output file name.
start_time	real	The starting time of the pulse, or the spacing between pulses of a pulse train.
resistance	real	The resistance of the source. The default resistance of a hard source is 0 while the source is active.
range_min	real	The Y-axis minimum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.
range_max	real	The Y-axis maximum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.
range_noise	real	Unused, but reserved for future use.
dialog_x	integer	The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.
dialog_y	integer	The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.
dialog_w	integer	The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.
dialog_h	integer	The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.
pulse_train	integer	If non-zero, then repeat this source continuously.
hard_source	integer	If non-zero, then the source is a hard source.
trunc_source	integer	If non-zero, then the source is a truncated source.
end	"source"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

block_type 4
id 5
name CURRENT(SOURCE)
color 36
fill_pattern 0
visible 1
min   0.000000e+00   4.000000e+00   2.000000e+00
max   2.000000e+00   1.200000e+01   3.000000e+00
waveform 1
excitation 2
direction 1
peak_value   1.0000e+00
center_frequency   0.0000e+00
high_frequency   0.0000e+00
sin_frequency   0.0000e+00
rise_time   2.0000e-09
duration   0.0000e+00
fall_time   0.0000e+00
in_file 
show_output 0
save_output 0
out_file 
start_time   0.0000e+00
resistance   0.0000e+00
range_min   0.0000e+00
range_max   0.0000e+00
range_noise   0.0000e+00
dialog_x 0
dialog_y 0
dialog_w 0
dialog_h 0
pulse_train 0
hard_source 1
end source

2.3.6 Port Block Keywords

Port blocks define a region in which a multiport load interacts with the simulation. Each port is connected to a node within the SPICE circuit of the multiport load. Thus, an arbitrarily complex interconnection between a SPICE circuit and the electromagnetic simulation can be defined.

Keyword Parameter Description

block_type integer The port block data type (5).

port_type integer The port type of the block.

orientation string The alignment direction for a line or plane probe.

multiport_name string The name of the multiport load for this port.

circuit_node string The SPICE circuit node for this port.

end "port" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
block_type	integer	The port block data type (5).
port_type	integer	The port type of the block.
orientation	string	The alignment direction for a line or plane probe.
multiport_name	string	The name of the multiport load for this port.
circuit_node	string	The SPICE circuit node for this port.
end	"port"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

block_type 5
id 9
name p1
color 5
fill_pattern 0
visible 1
min   4.500000e+01   8.000000e+00   1.000000e+00
max   4.500000e+01   1.200000e+01   2.000000e+00
port_type 1
orientation 3
multiport_name load1
circuit_node 1
end port

2.4 Dialog List Segment

The purpose of the dialog list segment is to save the user's preferred layout of the dialogs on the display. When a dialog is displayed, this list is examined to see if the user has saved a preferred dialog layout. If so, then that layout is used. If none is defined, then the default layout is used.

The dialog list segment is used only to create an easy to use user interface for LC, and thus has no effect on the simulation results.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
dialogs	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

A list of any number of dialog definitions can appear between the dialogs and end records. Each list item has the follow format.

Keyword Parameter Description

name string Name of the dialog.

x integer The X coordinate on the screen of the dialog. This value places the dialog on the screen.

y integer The Y coordinate on the screen of the dialog. This value places the dialog on the screen.

width integer The preferred width of the dialog.

height integer The preferred height of the dialog.

view_position integer The viewing direction of the viewport.

center_x integer The X coordinate of the center of the viewport.

center_y integer The Y coordinate of the center of the viewport.

center_z integer The Z coordinate of the center of the viewport.

zoom_factor integer The zoom factor for the viewport.

h_angle integer The view rotation angle for the horizontal axis for the viewport.

v_angle integer The view rotation angle for the vertical axis for the viewport.

d_angle integer The view rotation angle for the depth axis for the viewport.

d_min integer The minimum depth clip limit for the viewport.

d_max integer The minimum depth clip limit for the viewport.

end "dialog" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
name	string	Name of the dialog.
x	integer	The X coordinate on the screen of the dialog. This value places the dialog on the screen.
y	integer	The Y coordinate on the screen of the dialog. This value places the dialog on the screen.
width	integer	The preferred width of the dialog.
height	integer	The preferred height of the dialog.
view_position	integer	The viewing direction of the viewport.
center_x	integer	The X coordinate of the center of the viewport.
center_y	integer	The Y coordinate of the center of the viewport.
center_z	integer	The Z coordinate of the center of the viewport.
zoom_factor	integer	The zoom factor for the viewport.
h_angle	integer	The view rotation angle for the horizontal axis for the viewport.
v_angle	integer	The view rotation angle for the vertical axis for the viewport.
d_angle	integer	The view rotation angle for the depth axis for the viewport.
d_min	integer	The minimum depth clip limit for the viewport.
d_max	integer	The minimum depth clip limit for the viewport.
end	"dialog"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

name viewport
x 269
y 435
width 540
height 500
view_position 3
center_x   2.5000e+01
center_y   8.0000e+00
center_z   4.0000e+00
zoom_factor   1.0000e+00
h_angle   0.0000e+00
v_angle   0.0000e+00
d_angle   0.0000e+00
d_min  -4.0000e+00
d_max   1.2000e+01
end dialog

2.5 Pulse List Segment

Pulses given in the pulse list segment define a grouping of probes which may be windowed in time. This mapping provides an easy conversion from raw probe values into circuit parameters such as inductance and capacitance. It also provides the information required to convert the time domain probe results into the frequency domain.

The pulses are used only as a post-processing feature, and thus do not effect the simulation result directly.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
pulses	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

A list of any number of pulse definitions can appear between the pulses and end records. Each list item has the follow format.

Keyword Parameter Description

name string Name of the pulse.

voltage_probe_name string The name of the voltage probe for the pulse.

current_probe_name string The name of the current probe for the pulse.

charge_probe_name string The name of the charge probe for the pulse.

mflux_probe_name string The name of the magnetic flux probe for the pulse.

start_time_step integer The starting time step of the pulse.

end_time_step integer The ending time step of the pulse.

end "pulse" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
name	string	Name of the pulse.
voltage_probe_name	string	The name of the voltage probe for the pulse.
current_probe_name	string	The name of the current probe for the pulse.
charge_probe_name	string	The name of the charge probe for the pulse.
mflux_probe_name	string	The name of the magnetic flux probe for the pulse.
start_time_step	integer	The starting time step of the pulse.
end_time_step	integer	The ending time step of the pulse.
end	"pulse"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

pulses
name PULSE(SOLID)
voltage_probe_name VOLTAGE(SOLID)
current_probe_name CURRENT(SOLID)
charge_probe_name CHARGE(SOLID)
mflux_probe_name MFLUX(SOLID)
start_time_step 500
end_time_step 1900
end pulse
end

2.6 Sweep List Segment

Sweeps record simulation results like probe blocks, but do not have a model region associated with them, like probe blocks. Sweeps are conceptually in the far field region, an arbitrarily large distance from the model. Sweeps use an on-the-fly discrete fourier transform to record the results in the frequency domain.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
sweeps	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

A list of any number of sweep definitions can appear between the sweeps and end records. Each list item has the follow format.

Keyword Parameter Description

name string Name of the sweep.

sweep1 integer The X-axis sweep type.

sweep2 integer The second sweep type.

sweep3 integer The third sweep type.

theta_start real Starting angle of the theta sweep.

theta_end real Ending angle of the theta sweep.

theta_inc real Increment for the theta sweep.

phi_start real Starting angle of the phi sweep.

phi_end real Ending angle of the phi sweep.

phi_inc real Increment for the phi sweep.

freq_start real Starting frequency of the frequency sweep.

freq_end real Ending frequency of the frequency sweep.

freq_inc real Increment for the frequency sweep.

filename string Output filename for the sweep.

enable integer A list of six integer grid face enable flags in the order: +X +Y +Z -X -Y -Z.

db integer If non-zero, write the sweep data in decibels.

end "sweep" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
name	string	Name of the sweep.
sweep1	integer	The X-axis sweep type.
sweep2	integer	The second sweep type.
sweep3	integer	The third sweep type.
theta_start	real	Starting angle of the theta sweep.
theta_end	real	Ending angle of the theta sweep.
theta_inc	real	Increment for the theta sweep.
phi_start	real	Starting angle of the phi sweep.
phi_end	real	Ending angle of the phi sweep.
phi_inc	real	Increment for the phi sweep.
freq_start	real	Starting frequency of the frequency sweep.
freq_end	real	Ending frequency of the frequency sweep.
freq_inc	real	Increment for the frequency sweep.
filename	string	Output filename for the sweep.
enable	integer	A list of six integer grid face enable flags in the order: +X +Y +Z -X -Y -Z.
db	integer	If non-zero, write the sweep data in decibels.
end	"sweep"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

sweeps
name dipole
sweep1 1
sweep2 2
sweep3 0
theta_start   0.0000e+00
theta_end   9.0000e+01
theta_inc   2.0000e+00
phi_start   0.0000e+00
phi_end   1.8000e+02
phi_inc   1.0000e+01
freq_start   3.0000e+10
freq_end   3.0000e+10
freq_inc   0.0000e+00
filename dipole.swp
end sweep
end

2.7 Calculation List Segment

Calculations can combine probe results with algebraic operators. The result of a calculation is similar to a probe, and thus many of the calculation parameters are identical to the probe parameters.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
calculations	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

A list of any number of calculation definitions can appear between the calculations and end records. Each list item has the follow format.

Keyword Parameter Description

name string Name of the calculation.

output_type integer The probe output type of the calculation. This value is set by LC internally, and is not a user-accessible parameter. It is specified in the file for informational purposes only.

form_type integer The form type of the calculation. This value is set by LC internally, and is not a user-accessible parameter. It is specified in the file for informational purposes only.

show_output integer If non-zero, then the calculation output is displayed as the simulation runs.

save_output integer If non-zero, then the calculation output is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.

filename string The output file name, or output file name pattern.

time_factor integer The number of time steps to run the simulation before calculating a new value. The default value of 0 indicates that the calculation should be done for every time step.

space_factor integer The increment used during a output of a line, plane, or surface calculation. The default value of 0 indicates that every cell should be used.

range_min real The minimum value to be displayed. For point and line calculations, this is the Y-axis minimum value. For plane and surface calculations, this is the value assigned to the color blue. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum value each time the calculation display is updated.

range_max real The maximum value to be displayed. For point and line calculations, this is the Y-axis maximum value. For plane and surface calculations, this is the value assigned to the color red.

range_noise real Probe values whose magnitude is lower than the range noise are discarded from the color shading algorithm, and are displayed with the color black.

dialog_x integer The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line calculations.

dialog_y integer The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line calculations.

dialog_w integer The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. It is only significant for point and line calculations.

dialog_h integer The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. It is only significant for point and line calculations.

plane_format integer The output format for a plane calculation.

image_scale integer The scale factor for the plane calculation output image. The default value of 1 saves one pixel for each grid point of the calculation.

end "calculation" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
name	string	Name of the calculation.
output_type	integer	The probe output type of the calculation. This value is set by LC internally, and is not a user-accessible parameter. It is specified in the file for informational purposes only.
form_type	integer	The form type of the calculation. This value is set by LC internally, and is not a user-accessible parameter. It is specified in the file for informational purposes only.
show_output	integer	If non-zero, then the calculation output is displayed as the simulation runs.
save_output	integer	If non-zero, then the calculation output is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.
filename	string	The output file name, or output file name pattern.
time_factor	integer	The number of time steps to run the simulation before calculating a new value. The default value of 0 indicates that the calculation should be done for every time step.
space_factor	integer	The increment used during a output of a line, plane, or surface calculation. The default value of 0 indicates that every cell should be used.
range_min	real	The minimum value to be displayed. For point and line calculations, this is the Y-axis minimum value. For plane and surface calculations, this is the value assigned to the color blue. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum value each time the calculation display is updated.
range_max	real	The maximum value to be displayed. For point and line calculations, this is the Y-axis maximum value. For plane and surface calculations, this is the value assigned to the color red.
range_noise	real	Probe values whose magnitude is lower than the range noise are discarded from the color shading algorithm, and are displayed with the color black.
dialog_x	integer	The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line calculations.
dialog_y	integer	The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. This value places the graph on the screen. It is only significant for point and line calculations.
dialog_w	integer	The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. It is only significant for point and line calculations.
dialog_h	integer	The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the calculation. It is only significant for point and line calculations.
plane_format	integer	The output format for a plane calculation.
image_scale	integer	The scale factor for the plane calculation output image. The default value of 1 saves one pixel for each grid point of the calculation.
end	"calculation"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

calculations
name MFLUX(SLOTTED)
equation MFLUX(TOP) + MFLUX(SIDE)
output_type 8
form_type 1
show_output 0
save_output 1
filename slot_f.xy
time_factor 0
space_factor 0
range_min   0.0000e+00
range_max   0.0000e+00
range_noise   0.0000e+00
dialog_x 0
dialog_y 0
dialog_w 0
dialog_h 0
plane_format 1
image_scale 1
end calc
end

2.8 Multiport List Segment

Multiport loads connect an electromagnetic simulation to a SPICE circuit. Any number of nodes of the SPICE circuit can be patched into arbitrary regions of the model space by associating port blocks with the multiport load.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
multiports	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

A list of any number of multiport definitions can appear between the multiports and end records. Each list item has the follow format.

Keyword Parameter Description

name string Name of the multiport.

spice_file string The filename of the SPICE circuit.

end "multiport" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
name	string	Name of the multiport.
spice_file	string	The filename of the SPICE circuit.
end	"multiport"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

multiports
name load1
spice_file lc.sp
end multiport
end

2.9 Plane Wave Source List Segment

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
planes	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

A list of any number of plane wave source definitions can appear between the planes and end records. Each list item has the follow format.

Keyword Parameter Description

name string Name of the plane wave source.

phi real Plane wave Phi angle direction, in degrees.

theta real Plane wave Theta angle direction, in degrees.

psi real Plane wave polarization. Either 0 (horizontal) or 90 (vertical).

waveform integer The source waveform type.

peak_value real The maximum value of the source waveform.

center_frequency real The modulation frequency of the modulated gaussian pulse.

high_frequency real The high frequency at which the modulated gaussian pulse falls to 1/e of its peak value.

sin_frequency real The frequency of the sinusoidal source waveform.

rise_time real The rise time of the gaussian or ramp pulse.

duration real The duration of the peak value of the pulse.

fall_time real The fall time of the gaussian or ramp pulse. If zero, then the fall time is assumed to be the same as the rise time.

in_file string The input filename for a user-defined source waveform.

show_output integer If non-zero, then the source value is displayed as the simulation runs.

save_output integer If non-zero, then the source value is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.

out_file string The output file name.

start_time real The starting time of the pulse, or the spacing between pulses of a pulse train.

range_min real The Y-axis minimum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.

range_max real The Y-axis maximum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.

dialog_x integer The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.

dialog_y integer The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.

dialog_w integer The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.

dialog_h integer The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.

pulse_train integer If non-zero, then repeat this source continuously.

hard_source integer If non-zero, then the source is a hard source.

end "plane" Keyword marking the end of the item.

Keyword	Parameter	Description
name	string	Name of the plane wave source.
phi	real	Plane wave Phi angle direction, in degrees.
theta	real	Plane wave Theta angle direction, in degrees.
psi	real	Plane wave polarization. Either 0 (horizontal) or 90 (vertical).
waveform	integer	The source waveform type.
peak_value	real	The maximum value of the source waveform.
center_frequency	real	The modulation frequency of the modulated gaussian pulse.
high_frequency	real	The high frequency at which the modulated gaussian pulse falls to 1/e of its peak value.
sin_frequency	real	The frequency of the sinusoidal source waveform.
rise_time	real	The rise time of the gaussian or ramp pulse.
duration	real	The duration of the peak value of the pulse.
fall_time	real	The fall time of the gaussian or ramp pulse. If zero, then the fall time is assumed to be the same as the rise time.
in_file	string	The input filename for a user-defined source waveform.
show_output	integer	If non-zero, then the source value is displayed as the simulation runs.
save_output	integer	If non-zero, then the source value is saved to a file or set of files as the simulation runs.
out_file	string	The output file name.
start_time	real	The starting time of the pulse, or the spacing between pulses of a pulse train.
range_min	real	The Y-axis minimum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.
range_max	real	The Y-axis maximum value of the source to be displayed. The default if range_min = range_max is to auto-scale to the current minimum and maximum source value.
dialog_x	integer	The X coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.
dialog_y	integer	The Y coordinate on the screen of the X-Y graph dialog for the source. This value places the graph on the screen.
dialog_w	integer	The preferred width of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.
dialog_h	integer	The preferred height of the X-Y graph dialog for the source.
pulse_train	integer	If non-zero, then repeat this source continuously.
hard_source	integer	If non-zero, then the source is a hard source.
end	"plane"	Keyword marking the end of the item.

Example

planes
name pw
phi 9.0000e+01
theta 9.0000e+01
psi 0.0000e+00
waveform 4
direction 1
peak_value   1.0000e+00
center_frequency   0.0000e+00
high_frequency   0.0000e+00
sin_frequency   2.0000e+10
rise_time   2.0000e-09
duration   0.0000e+00
fall_time   0.0000e+00
in_file 
show_output 0
save_output 0
out_file 
start_time   0.0000e+00
range_min   0.0000e+00
range_max   0.0000e+00
dialog_x 0
dialog_y 0
dialog_w 0
dialog_h 0
pulse_train 0
hard_source 1
end plane
end

2.9 Model Parameters Segment

The model parameters are values which affect the overall model interpretation.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
model_parameters	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
minor_grid_spacing	real	The spacing between the minor grid points in the viewport. Blocks are automatically snapped to this grid when created. This is the default value for the mesh cell width.
major_grid_factor	integer	The spacing factor between major grid points overlaid on the minor grid in the viewport.
measurement_units	integer	The measurement units of the model.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

Example

model_parameters
minor_grid_spacing   1.0000e+00
major_grid_factor 10
measurement_units 1
end

2.10 Mesh Parameters Segment

The mesh parameters affect the overall model simulation.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
mesh_parameters	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
cell_width	real	The size of an FD-TD cell in the simulation. If set to 0, then the minimum grid spacing model paramter is used.
default_material	string	The name of a material to use as a default. If not set, then the first material in the materials list is used.
output_directory	string	The directory name for probe and source output files.
right_wall	integer	The boundary condition for the right (+X) face of the simulation domain.
back_wall	integer	The boundary condition for the back (+Y) face of the simulation domain.
top_wall	integer	The boundary condition for the top (+Z) face of the simulation domain.
left_wall	integer	The boundary condition for the left (-X) face of the simulation domain.
front_wall	integer	The boundary condition for the front (-Y) face of the simulation domain.
bottom_wall	integer	The boundary condition for the bottom (-Z) face of the simulation domain.
rbc_type	integer	The absorbing boundary condition used to truncate the simulation domain.
pml_thickness	integer	The thickness in number of cells of the PML region.
pml_order	real	The order of the absorbing coefficients.
pml_tolerance	real	The maximum reflection from the outer boundary of the PML region.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

Example

mesh_parameters
cell_width   1.0000e+00
default_material 
right_wall 0
back_wall 0
top_wall 0
left_wall 0
front_wall 0
bottom_wall 0
rbc_type 1
pml_thickness 4
pml_order 2
pml_tolerance   1.0000e-05
end

2.11 Plot Parameters Segment

The plot parameters establish default values for the evaluation of pulses during post-processing.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
plot_parameters	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
maximum_frequency	real	The maximum frequency of the frequency domain plots created by the Plot Pulses dialog.
frequency_count	integer	The number of points in the frequency domain plots created by the Plot Pulses dialog.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

Example

plot_parameters
maximum_frequency   0.0000e+00
frequency_count 0
end

2.12 Sequence Parameters Segment

Sequence numbers are used as a quick look up for automatically naming blocks. These values are used as an aid during automatic block naming, but are not required by the naming algorithm within LC.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
seq_parameters	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
geometry_number	integer	The last sequence number for geometry block names.
probe_number	integer	The last sequence number for probe block names.
source_number	integer	The last sequence number for source block names.
load_number	integer	The last sequence number for load block names.
port_number	integer	The last sequence number for port block names.
material_number	integer	The last sequence number for material names.
pulse_number	integer	The last sequence number for pulse names.
multiport_number	integer	The last sequence number for multiport load names.
calculation_number	integer	The last sequence number for probe calculation names.
sweep_number	integer	The last sequence number for far field sweep names.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

Example

seq_parameters
geometry_number 0
probe_number 0
source_number 0
load_number 0
port_number 0
material_number 0
pulse_number 2
multiport_number 0
calculation_number 2
sweep_number 0
end

2.13 Far Field Parameters Segment

The far field parameters define a set of frequencies of interest. Far field data is accumulated for these frequencies during a simulation run.

Definition

Keyword	Parameter	Description
far_parameters	none	Starting keyword for the segment.
minimum_frequency	real	The minimum far field frequency of interest.
maximum_frequency	real	The maximum far field frequency of interest.
frequency_count	real	The number of frequencies between the minimum and maximum to be saved.
output_file	string	The output file name for the total radiated power plot. If no file is given, then no plot is created.
norm_source	string	The name of the source block to be used when normalizing the far field results. If no source is given, then the results are not normalized.
end	none	Keyword marking the end of the segment.

Example

far_parameters
minimum_frequency   0.0000e+00
maximum_frequency   0.0000e+00
frequency_count 0
output_file 
norm_source 
end

3 Enumerations

Enumerations define a mapping from symbolic names into integer values. The symbolic names are descriptive, and are used in the program source as well as the documentation. The integer values are stored in the LCX file, rather than the symbolic names.

3.1 Axis Types

Axis types defines an alignment of a block with a coordinate axis or plane. Unlike a direction type, it defines only the alignment, not the polarity of the block.

Name Value Description

undefined_axis -1 Undefined or default value.

X 0 Aligned with X-axis or lies in X-plane.

Y 1 Aligned with Y-axis or lies in Y-plane.

Z 2 Aligned with Z-axis or lies in Z-plane.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_axis	-1	Undefined or default value.
X	0	Aligned with X-axis or lies in X-plane.
Y	1	Aligned with Y-axis or lies in Y-plane.
Z	2	Aligned with Z-axis or lies in Z-plane.

3.2 Field Component Types

When a probe has a vector field output type, a particular field component type is also selected.

Name Value Description

undefined_component 0 Undefined or default value.

x_component 1 X vector component.

y_component 2 Y vector component.

z_component 3 Z vector component.

magnitude 4 Magnitude of the vector.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_component	0	Undefined or default value.
x_component	1	X vector component.
y_component	2	Y vector component.
z_component	3	Z vector component.
magnitude	4	Magnitude of the vector.

3.3 Direction Types

Direction types define an alignment of a block with a coordinate axis as well as a polarity, or orientation.

Name Value Description

undefined_direction 0 Undefined or default value.

positive_x 1 Pointing in the direction of the positive X axis.

positive_y 2 Pointing in the direction of the positive Y axis.

positive_z 3 Pointing in the direction of the positive Z axis.

negative_x 4 Pointing in the direction of the negative X axis.

negative_y 5 Pointing in the direction of the negative Y axis.

negative_z 6 Pointing in the direction of the negative Z axis.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_direction	0	Undefined or default value.
positive_x	1	Pointing in the direction of the positive X axis.
positive_y	2	Pointing in the direction of the positive Y axis.
positive_z	3	Pointing in the direction of the positive Z axis.
negative_x	4	Pointing in the direction of the negative X axis.
negative_y	5	Pointing in the direction of the negative Y axis.
negative_z	6	Pointing in the direction of the negative Z axis.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_image	0	Undefined or default value.
movie_image	1	Movie.BYU format.
gif_image	2	GIF format.
xwd_image	3	X window dump format.
sun_image	4	Sun Rasterfile format.
sgi_image	5	SGI RGB format.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_units	0	Undefined or default value.
mm_units	1	Millimeters
cm_units	2	Centimeters
meter_units	3	Meters
mil_units	4	Mils (thousandths of an inch)
inch_units	5	Inches
foot_units	6	Feet
micron_units	7	Microns

Name	Value	Description
undefined_block_type	0	Undefined or default value.
geometry_type	1	Geometry block
load_type	2	Load block
probe_type	3	Probe block
source_type	4	Source block
port_type	5	Port block

Name	Value	Description
undefined_shape	0	Undefined or default value.
cube_shape	1	The block is a rectangular box (parallelpiped).
cylinder_shape	2	The block is a cylinder.
sphere_shape	3	The block is a sphere.

Name Value Description

undefined_waveform 0 Undefined or default value.

gaussian_source 1 Gaussian pulse

ramp_source 2 Linear ramp pulse

modulated_source 3 Modulated gaussian pulse

sinusoid_source 4 A continuous sinusoid

user_source 5 Waveform is defined by user-specified values

Name	Value	Description
undefined_waveform	0	Undefined or default value.
gaussian_source	1	Gaussian pulse
ramp_source	2	Linear ramp pulse
modulated_source	3	Modulated gaussian pulse
sinusoid_source	4	A continuous sinusoid
user_source	5	Waveform is defined by user-specified values

Name	Value	Description
undefined_excitation	0	Undefined or default value.
voltage_source	1	A line of electric fields values is set.
current_source	2	A loop of magnetic fields is set.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_load	0	Undefined or default value.
spice_load	1	Load defined by a SPICE circuit.
fdtd_load	2	Load defined by FD-TD coefficients.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_port	0	Undefined or default value.
spice_port	1	The port interfaces to a SPICE circuit node.

Name Value Description

undefined_output 0 Undefined or default value.

electric_intensity 1 Electric field intensity

magnetic_intensity 2 Magnetic field intensity

current_density 3 Current density

power_density 4 Power density

derived_voltage 5 Voltage

derived_current 6 Current

electric_flux 7 Charge

magnetic_flux 8 Magnetic Flux

derived_impedance 9 Impedance (V/I)

derived_power 10 Power (V*I)

derived_capacitance 11 Capacitance

derived_inductance 12 Inductance

constant_output 13 A constant value

Name	Value	Description
undefined_output	0	Undefined or default value.
electric_intensity	1	Electric field intensity
magnetic_intensity	2	Magnetic field intensity
current_density	3	Current density
power_density	4	Power density
derived_voltage	5	Voltage
derived_current	6	Current
electric_flux	7	Charge
magnetic_flux	8	Magnetic Flux
derived_impedance	9	Impedance (V/I)
derived_power	10	Power (V*I)
derived_capacitance	11	Capacitance
derived_inductance	12	Inductance
constant_output	13	A constant value

3.13 Probe Value Types

If a probe region is larger than one cell in the simulation, it has the potential to take on several values each time step. The probe value type defines how these values will be interpreted.

Name Value Description

undefined_value 0 Undefined or default value.

center_value 1 Value is taken from the center of the probe region.

average_value 2 Value is taken as the average within the probe region.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_value	0	Undefined or default value.
center_value	1	Value is taken from the center of the probe region.
average_value	2	Value is taken as the average within the probe region.

3.14 Probe Form Types

At each time step the probe is evaluated, the result depends upon the probe form type. The probe forms correspond to the form of the result, not to the physical shape of the probe block.

Name Value Description

undefined_form 0 Undefined or default value.

point_form 1 Point versus time

line_form 2 Line versus time

plane_form 3 Plane versus time

surface_form 4 Surface versus time

calc_form 5 Algebraic combination of other probes. This value is used internally within LC, and is not specified directly by the user.

constant_form 6 Constant value. This value is used internally within LC, and is not specified directly by the user.

source_form 7 Source probe (similar to point_form). This value is used internally within LC, and is not specified directly by the user.

Name	Value	Description
undefined_form	0	Undefined or default value.
point_form	1	Point versus time
line_form	2	Line versus time
plane_form	3	Plane versus time
surface_form	4	Surface versus time
calc_form	5	Algebraic combination of other probes. This value is used internally within LC, and is not specified directly by the user.
constant_form	6	Constant value. This value is used internally within LC, and is not specified directly by the user.
source_form	7	Source probe (similar to point_form). This value is used internally within LC, and is not specified directly by the user.

3.15 Sweep Types

Sweeps can provide a up to three distinct nested iterations of sweep parameters. For example, a sweep can be of a range of phi angles, and a sweep of frequencies can be performed for each phi angle. In this case, two nested iterations are defined (phi and frequency).

Name Value Description

no_sweep 0 No sweep is calculated.

theta_sweep 1 Vary the theta angle.

phi_sweep 2 Vary the phi angle.

frequency_sweep 3 Vary the frequency.

Name	Value	Description
no_sweep	0	No sweep is calculated.
theta_sweep	1	Vary the theta angle.
phi_sweep	2	Vary the phi angle.
frequency_sweep	3	Vary the frequency.

3.16 Sweep Output Types

The result of a sweep can be either of the components, or the magnitude.

Name Value Description

magnitude_output 0 Value is the magnitude.

theta_output 1 Value is the E-theta component.

phi_output 2 Value is the E-phi component.

Name	Value	Description
magnitude_output	0	Value is the magnitude.
theta_output	1	Value is the E-theta component.
phi_output	2	Value is the E-phi component.

3.17 Boundary Condition Types

A boundary condition is applied to the exterior faces of the model space. Each face can have its own boundary condition.

Name Value Description

BC_RADIATING 0 The selected absorbing boundary condition is applied.

BC_ELECTRIC 1 An electric wall (tangential electric field forced to zero) is used.

BC_MAGNETIC 2 An magnetic wall (tangential magnetic field forced to zero) is used.

Name	Value	Description
BC_RADIATING	0	The selected absorbing boundary condition is applied.
BC_ELECTRIC	1	An electric wall (tangential electric field forced to zero) is used.
BC_MAGNETIC	2	An magnetic wall (tangential magnetic field forced to zero) is used.

3.18 Absorbing Boundary Conditions

A single absorbing boundary condition can be set for a model, and is applied to the selected grid faces.

Name Value Description

RBC_OFF 0 No absorbing boundary condition is applied.

RBC_FIRST 1 The first order Mur absorbing boundary condition is applied.

RBC_SECOND 2 The second order Mur absorbing boundary condition is applied.

RBC_PML 3 The Beringer perfectly matched layers absorbing boundary condition is applied.

Name	Value	Description
RBC_OFF	0	No absorbing boundary condition is applied.
RBC_FIRST	1	The first order Mur absorbing boundary condition is applied.
RBC_SECOND	2	The second order Mur absorbing boundary condition is applied.
RBC_PML	3	The Beringer perfectly matched layers absorbing boundary condition is applied.

3.19 Architecture Types

This parameter was relevant to the binary file format used by LC, but is not relevant to the text file format. It may be removed in a future version of LC.

Name Value Description

ARCH_UNDEFINED 0 No architecture defined.

ARCH_CRAY_FP 1 Cray floating point architecture.

ARCH_IEEE_FP 2 IEEE floating point architecture.

Name	Value	Description
ARCH_UNDEFINED	0	No architecture defined.
ARCH_CRAY_FP	1	Cray floating point architecture.
ARCH_IEEE_FP	2	IEEE floating point architecture.

LCX File Format Definition

Table Of Contents

1 Introduction

1.2 List Segments

1.3 Parameter Segments

1.4 Record Format

1.6 Unrecognized Keywords

2 File Segments

Definition

Example

2.2 Material List Segment

Definition

Example

2.3 Block List Segment

Definition

Example

2.3.1 Common Block Keywords

Example

2.3.3 Load Block Keywords

Example

2.3.4 Probe Block Keywords

Example

2.3.5 Source Block Keywords

Example

2.3.6 Port Block Keywords

Example

2.4 Dialog List Segment

Definition

Example

2.5 Pulse List Segment

Definition

Example

2.6 Sweep List Segment

Definition

Example

2.7 Calculation List Segment

Definition

Example

2.8 Multiport List Segment

Definition

Example

2.9 Plane Wave Source List Segment

Definition

Example

2.9 Model Parameters Segment

Definition

Example

2.10 Mesh Parameters Segment

Definition

Example

2.11 Plot Parameters Segment

Definition

Example

2.12 Sequence Parameters Segment

Definition

Example

2.13 Far Field Parameters Segment

Definition

Example

3 Enumerations

3.1 Axis Types