Simulation Setup for Demonstrating SNR Performance of Preamplifier Decoupled versus Power Matched Receive Coils

Motivation: While preamplifier decoupling is a widely accepted technique, based on impedance mismatching, it appears counter-intuitive and still introduces confusion in the MRI community and scientists, who are not electrical engineers by training. Goal(s): This work aims to develop a simulation setup, which clearly illustrates the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in preamplifier decoupled and power matched receive coils. Approach: Circuit simulations are used to compare SNR at the output of power matched and preamplifier decoupled coils in 3T MRI systems. Results: The networks yield similar SNR, despite having significantly different input reflection coefficients; demonstrating that preamplifier decoupling and power matching approaches lead to equivalent SNR. Impact: The developed demonstrator is useful in understanding properties of preamplifier decoupling and breaking down a range of associated misconceptions. This can facilitate mastering a proper use of this decoupling method.