EMI Bites: A Common Mistake That Spikes EMI in PCBs
EMI Bites: A Common Mistake That Spikes EMI in PCBs
I often see a simple mistake during EMI reviews: long traces connecting pads in PCB designs add impedance, hurting signal integrity and boosting EMI.
These traces create large current loops that generate common mode currents—unwanted noise highly effective at radiating EMI.
The fix?
Place a via right next to the pad (or on it) to connect to the Return Reference Plane (RRP).
This shrinks ground loops and cuts parasitic impedance, especially inductance, which can potentially drive common mode currents.
This small change boosts signal quality and EMC performance, helping you pass compliance tests (FCC, CE).
-Dario
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