An automated measurement system for characterization of RF and gradient coil parameters

A fully automated laboratory-based measurement system for characterization of coil system parameters is presented. This method uses an inexpensive personal computer (PC)-controlled stepper motor positioning system in conjunction with a network/spectrum analyzer and an analog-to-digital converter (A/D) board that allows high resolution data acquisition in an unattended manner. A graphical interface was created for complete control of stepper motor movement, measurement, and data acquisition. The system is capable of performing a wide range of measurements that can, either individually or combined, characterize radiofrequency (RF) and gradient coils used in MRI. Measurement methods, theory, and results for conductor and shield current distributions, mutual impedance, and magnetic fields are given. Comparisons with theoretical calculations are included to validate the accuracy and utility of the system.