OBJECTIVE:To describe the characteristics of existing numerical methods,conclude current mainstream bio-electromagnetism simulation softwares,focusing on their different directions,and explore the developing trends of bio-electromagnetism computing platform.DATA SOURCES:A computer-based online search of Wanfang,Sciencadirect (Elsevier),and IEEE database was performed for articles published between 1999 and 2009 with the key words "bio-electromagnetism,simulation,numerical simulation,FDTD* in Chinese and English.A total of 83 articles were collected,including 28 Chinese and 55 English.Four software introduction and user manuals were manually retrieved.DATA SELECTION:Articles were screened by reading the title and abstract,and the latest relevant research literatures in the same kinds of simulation methods were included.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:A total of 25 articles with no related content,and 27 repetitive and outdated studies were excluded.Finally,31 Chinese and English articles were included for further analysis,involving 8 reviews and comments and 23 original articles.RESULTS:Common electromagnetic field numerical calculations include time domain finite difference method,moment method,and finite element method.Currently,the bio-electromagnetism simulation softwares used in electromagnetic radiation on organism include SEMCAD-X,FEKO,XFDTD,HFSS and GEMS.CONCLUSION:Future bio-electromagnetic computing platform is expected to integrate a variety of numerical methods to meet the research needs of a variety of simulation objects.In addition,interface facilitation of simulation and flowsheet of modeling will be the focus of future improvements.