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Can I make a PCB without a ground plane?

Recently we are developing a portable device which should be very tiny and light. In terms of PCB design, I am thinking whether it is a good idea to exclude ground plane to minimize the product size.

It depends. For high-speed logic or RF circuits, a ground plane is necessary. For others, ground or power plane is not required.

You should, however,

  • Make sure that the traces are as wide as possible, particularly for the power, ground or other high-current connections.
  • Ensure fatter traces are more reliable.

Read More: Signal and Power Integrity Fundamentals on High-Speed PCB

#PCB Design

Picture of Oliver Smith

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.
Picture of Oliver Smith

Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.

What Others Are Asking

Are SMT components bad for high voltage applications?

Many assembly factories are asking for SMT jobs, while I think through hole would be a better option for a high voltage application. Before the high voltage project is started, we need to make a call on SMT or Through hole parts. Is there a study on this?

Can leaded BGA chips be reflow soldered with lead-free process?

I know that using leaded process for lead-free BGA chips is not acceptable, because the solder balls of the BGA will not melt and the joint will be unreliable. But now BGA chip is only available in lead-free balls. is it ok to solder leaded BGA chips with a lead-free (thus, higher temperature) process?

Why the PCB is cold, but LED bulbs are still hot?

I have a THERMAL problem when designing a power LED ALUMINUM PCB. I have 10 5W UV power LEDs.Coldwater flows through water heat sink continuously. The problem is the PCB is cold, but LED bulbs are still hot? Can anyone give me some advice.

Read Detailed Advice From Blog Articles