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Abstract
In this paper new stability theorems for Yee's Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) formulation are derived based on the energy method. A numerical energy expression is proposed. This numerical energy is dependent on the FDTD model's E and H field components. It is shown that if the numerical energy is bounded, then all the field components will also be bounded as the simulation proceeds. The theorems in this paper are inspired by similar results in nonlinear dynamical system. The new theorems are used to prove the stability of a FDTD model containing non-homogeneous dielectrics, perfect electric conductor (PEC) boundary, nonlinear dielectric and also linear/nonlinear lumped elements. The theorems are intended to complement the well-known Courant-Friedrich-Lewy (CFL) Criterion. Finally it is shown how the theorems can be used as a test, to determine if the formulation of new lumped element in FDTD is proper or not. A proper formulation will preserve the dynamical stability of the FDTD model. The finding reported in this paper will have implications in the manner stability analysis of FDTD algorithm is carried out in the future.