Automated decoupling capacitor analysis for analog/digital printed circuit boards

Faster switching, lower supply voltages and the need for portable products are placing new demands on signal-, power-integrity and EMI. This paper discusses the challenges with advanced printed circuit board (PCB) design and describes an automated decoupling capacitor analysis for analog and digital printed circuit boards. The genetic algorithm (GA) is used for optimization and selection of the appropriate number and types of decoupling capacitors for a pre-defined power/ground noise specification. This technique provides an innovative simulation strategy that significantly improves engineering productivity by automating decoupling capacitor selection, placement and optimization for printed circuit boards.