An inductively coupled, series-tuned NMR probe

Abstract A matching circuit for NMR coils for in vivo experiments is described. This circuit uses an inductive coupling of the NMR coil to the transmitter-receiver. This arrangement produces a nearly perfectly balanced NMR coil with respect to the sample and thus reduces the electric losses in the sample and also the radiative and resistive losses in the ground loops. Moreover, a series capacitor is inserted in the middle of the coil which further reduces the electric losses in the sample. Both inductive coupling and series tuning reduce the frequency shift of the coil resonance frequency upon the introduction of the sample or due to the movements of the animal under studies.