Capturing via effects in simultaneous switching noise simulation

This paper presents a method for including via effects in modeling simultaneous switching noise (SSN). Models for interconnections and multi-layered planes have been developed and combined using superposition based on skin depth approximation to capture the return current effect due to via transitions. Measurements on active board containing the drivers, transmission lines, vias and planes have been conducted. The modeling approach has been correlated with measurements, showing the validity of the method. The modeling method has been extended and applied to large size systems to model the power supply fluctuations due to via transitions.