Layer Switch Count

Summary of the Layer Switch Count PRC, verifying minimal via count between bypass capacitors and associated pins to maintain low impedance and effective decoupling.

Description

Layer Switch Count finds the number of times there is a layer switch in a trace path between two pins

Passing Criteria: This check passes if the number of vias on the path between a bypass capacitor and its associated pin is below a specified threshold.

Reporting Units: COUNT

Examples

Passing Message:

Layer switch count of 0 within acceptable range (0 to 1)

Failing Message:

Layer switch count of 2 outside acceptable range (0 to 1)

Physics Justification

Layer switches on trace paths between pins introduce parasitic inductance, which:

• Reduces Filtering Effectiveness

  Parasitic inductance degrades the ability to respond to high-frequency noise.

• Increases Impedance

  Vias add impedance to the path, disrupting the low-impedance connection needed for proper decoupling in the case of bypass capacitors.

• Affects Power Stability

  Higher impedance and slower response times can cause voltage fluctuations at the pin, impacting the power integrity of the connected component.

Helpful Definitions

• Parasitic Inductance The unintended inductance that arises from the magnetic field created by current flow and opposes changes in current, especially at high frequencies. It can degrade circuit performance by slowing responses and causing noise.

• Decoupling The use of capacitors placed near pins to stabilize voltage and filter out noise on the power supply.