Image from: (MRI: A Guided Tour - MagLab, n.d.)
MRI scanners are complex and are unable to scale up to 7T magnetic fields. Implementing novel technologies can improve these systems and allow them to operate safely in increased field strengths.
Zack and Brandon are connecting a Portable Vector Network Analyzer (PNA) to measure the near field characteristics of the RF coils.
The prototype is placed in an anechoic chamber to reduce interference from outside signals. The chamber also has motors to control the movement of the antenna and provide much more precise measurements of the near field.
Changes were made to the measurement process after encountering difficulties. A loop antenna and matching network were added to reduce coupling and reflected signals.
References:
MRI: A Guided Tour - MagLab. (n.d.). Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://nationalmaglab.org/education/magnet-academy/learn-the- basics/stories/mri- a-guided-tour