5.3.4.3 Microstrip Interconnect on PCB with Finite Ground-
Reference Plane
In this benchmark validation problem, the effect of a microstrip trace over a finite
ground-reference plane, and near an edge of the finite plane is found. Figure 5.3.4.3a
illustrates the configuration. A rectangular ground reference plane of 30 cm x 50 cm and
centered at x = y = 0 is placed at z = 0. A 30 cm long trace is placed as shown near the
edge of the reference plane. Figure 5.3.4.3b shows the trapezoidal cross section of the
traces, dielectric slab with a relative dielectric constant of 4.7, and reference plane. The
source and load configurations are shown in Figure 5.3.4.3c.
The source should be a periodic trapezoidal voltage waveform and has a 10%-90% rise
time and fall time of 1.4 ns, a duty cycle is 50%, and the total period of 30 ns. The pulse
amplitude will vary from zero volts to 5.0 volts.