Introduction of Signal Integrity Analysis using Altium

This course delves into Signal Integrity Analysis using Altium Designer, focusing on techniques to ensure reliable high-speed PCB designs. Participants will learn how to analyze signal integrity issues, perform simulations, and apply best practices to minimize noise, crosstalk, and reflections.

Prerequisites

• Basic Knowledge of PCB Design and Altium Designer
• Understanding of Electronics and Circuit Theory
• Familiarity with Schematic Capture and PCB Layout

Table of Contents

1: Introduction to Signal Integrity

1.1 What is Signal Integrity and Why is it Important?
1.2 Overview of Common Signal Integrity Issues
1.3 Key Parameters Affecting Signal Integrity: Rise Time, Overshoot, etc.
1.4 Introduction to Altium Designer’s Signal Integrity Tools

2: Setting Up for Signal Integrity Analysis

2.1 Preparing Your Design for Signal Integrity Analysis
2.2 Configuring Simulation Parameters in Altium(Ref: Leveraging 3D PCB Visualization in Altium)
2.3 Creating and Managing Signal Integrity Simulation Projects
2.4 Defining Critical Signals and Parameters for Analysis

3: Time Domain Analysis

3.1 Understanding Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)
3.2 Running Time Domain Simulations in Altium
3.3 Analyzing Waveforms and Identifying Issues
3.4 Evaluating Signal Integrity in the Time Domain

4: Frequency Domain Analysis

4.1 Introduction to Frequency Domain Analysis
4.2 Using S-Parameters and Bode Plots
4.3 Conducting Frequency Domain Simulations
4.4 Evaluating Signal Integrity in the Frequency Domain

5: Crosstalk and Noise Analysis

5.1 Understanding Crosstalk: Types and Causes
5.2 Performing Crosstalk Analysis in Altium Designer
5.3 Identifying Noise Sources and Their Impact
5.4 Techniques for Reducing Crosstalk and Noise

6: Using the SI Analysis Toolset in Altium

6.1 Overview of Altium’s Signal Integrity Analysis Tools
6.2 Using the “Simulate” Function for Signal Integrity Checks
6.3 Analyzing Results and Interpreting Data
6.4 Generating Reports from Signal Integrity Simulations

7: Best Practices for High-Speed Design

7.1 Design Strategies to Enhance Signal Integrity
7.2 Managing Trace Lengths and Impedance Matching
7.3 Implementing Ground Planes and Power Distribution Techniques
7.4 Layout Techniques for Minimizing Signal Integrity Issues

8: Final Project and Review

8.1 Conducting a Comprehensive Signal Integrity Analysis on a Sample Design
8.2 Presenting Findings and Recommended Design Changes
8.3 Review of Key Signal Integrity Concepts and Techniques
8.4 Q&A and Course Wrap-Up

Conclusion

This training equips participants with the skills to effectively conduct Signal Integrity Analysis using Altium Designer. By mastering analysis techniques and applying best practices in high-speed design, participants will enhance their ability to create reliable, high-performance PCBs that meet stringent design specifications.

Reference