Analysis of crosstalk effects on single ended signal lines crossing split reference planes

The electromagnetic consequences of splits in the reference plane of signal lines include signal reflections, crosstalk and electromagnetic interference (EMI). This paper deals with the effects of a split reference plane on the crosstalk level between single ended (SE) signal lines crossing the split. Coupling mechanisms are analyzed by investigating microstrip and stripline configurations for different plane split geometries through electromagnetic simulation and time-domain reflectometry (TDR) measurements. The influence of the split on crosstalk is evaluated by examining the coupled electromagnetic energy at the near and far ends of the victim signal line. Design rules for minimizing crosstalk levels in crossing splits scenarios are discussed by correlating split length and width to observed electrical effects.