EMCTrace Blog

PCB Design guidelines, layout reviews, and EMC fundamentals. Straight from our experts.

Field Spread in Microstrip Traces

Field Spread in Microstrip Traces

What causes crosstalk and how to minimize field spread.

8/5/2026

A Misuse of a SGPS 4-Layer Stackup

A Misuse of a SGPS 4-Layer Stackup

How to use SGPS boards, and how they can be improved for EMC performance.

7/21/2026

Crossing a Split in Reference Copper

Crossing a Split in Reference Copper

An analysis of what happens when high-speed traces cross a gap in reference copper that extends to the board edge.

7/14/2026

Managing Fields in an SGPS Stackup

Managing Fields in an SGPS Stackup

How to avoid EMC risks when transitioning between layers with a 4-Layer SGPS PCB.

7/7/2026

How to Route Differential Pairs

A brief guide on the what to avoid and what to prioritize in differential pair routing.

6/30/2026

Copper Flood on Signal Layers

Copper Flood on Signal Layers

A real-world example of copper flood causing more harm than good.

6/23/2026

A Simple Fix that Eliminates Risk

A Simple Fix that Eliminates Risk

How moving traces just a few centimeters can make all the difference in EMC behavior.

6/17/2026

Don't Always Trust the Datasheet

Don't Always Trust the Datasheet

If you use this reference layout in your design, EMC problems are guaranteed.

6/9/2026

PCB Floor Planning for Low EMI

PCB Floor Planning for Low EMI

The physical placement of parts on your PCB is the first line of defense in EMC.

6/2/2026

Using Stitching Vias at Layer Transitions in SGGG Boards

Using Stitching Vias at Layer Transitions in SGGG Boards

Stitching vias are an incredibly useful tool when managing fields at layer transitions in PCBs.

5/26/2026

Managing Common-Mode Current in an Offline Converter

Managing Common-Mode Current in an Offline Converter

Transformer currents between isolated domains are a common source of EMC issues. A simple, properly placed component is cheap insurance.

5/19/2026

The Importance of a Solid Reference Plane Adjacent to Microcontrollers and Signals

The Importance of a Solid Reference Plane Adjacent to Microcontrollers and Signals

Continuous reference planes are critical for modern microcontrollers and high frequency signals.

5/12/2026