Abstract: | We consider a coupled finite element (fe)–boundary element (be) approach for three‐dimensional magnetic field problems. The formulation is based on a vector potential in a bounded domain (fe) and a scalar potential in an unbounded domain (be). We describe a coupled variational problem yielding a unique solution where the constraints in the trial spaces are replaced by appropriate side conditions. Then we discuss a Galerkin discretization of the coupled problem and prove a quasi‐optimal error estimate. Finally we discuss an efficient preconditioned iterative solution strategy for the resulting linear system. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |