Experimental characterization of simultaneous switching noise for multichip module

CMOS-based multichip modules have been actively developed for achieving high performance and high speed systems. Simultaneous switching noise (SSN) induced by CMOS output buffers is a serious issue in multichip modules as well as single-chip packages to ensure stable operation and to derive inherent speed performance. Multichip modules are expected to have smaller switching noise level than the case of single-chip packages by removing a first-level package and its parasitics. This paper reports the measurement results of switching noises for different types of MCMs using a switching noise generating chip. Two types of test vehicles were fabricated and measurement results were compared. Noise distribution on a ground plane was also measured.