Edge Coupled Stripline Impedance Calculator

The edge couple differential symmetric stripline transmission line is a common technique for routing differential traces. There are four different types of impedance used in characterizing differential trace impedances. This calculator finds both odd and even transmission line impedance. Modeling approximation can be used to understand the impedance of the edge couple differential stripline transmission line.

An edge couple differential symmetric stripline transmission line is constructed with two traces referenced to the same reference planes above and below the traces. There is a dielectric material between them. There is also some coupling between the lines. This coupling is one of the features of differential traces. Usually it is good practice to match differential trace length and to keep the distances between the traces consistent. Also avoid placing vias and other structures between these traces.

Differential Impedance The impedance measured between the two lines when they are driven with opposite polarity signals. Zdiff is equal to twice the value of Zodd

Differential Impedance The impedance measured between the two lines when they are driven with opposite polarity signals. Zdiff is equal to twice the value of Zodd

Odd Impedance The impedance measured when testing only one of the differential traces referenced to the ground plane. The differential signals need to be driven with opposite polarity signals. Zodd is equal to half of the value of Zdiff

Common Impedance The impedance measured between the two lines when they are driven with the same signal. Zcommon is half the value of Zeven

Even Impedance The impedance measured when testing only one of the differential traces referenced to the ground plane. The differential signals need to be driven with the same identical signal. Zeven is twice the value of Zcommon

Models have been created to approximate the characteristics of the microstrip transmission line.

  for (s/t) >= 5

  for (s/t) < 5

Edge coupled microstrip impedances (Z_0,odd, Z_0,even, Z_0,diff and Z_0,common) shall be calculated as specified in previous paragraph.

Inputs
T = 1.2 mil
H = 63 mil
W = 10 mil
S = 63 mil
ε_r = 4

Output
Z_odd = 78.4 Ω
Z_even = 78.3 Ω
Z_diff = 157 Ω
Z_common = 39.2 Ω

Inputs
T = 1.5 mil
H = 70 mil
W = 15 mil
S = 65 mil
ε_r = 4.3

Output
Z_odd = 68.1 Ω
Z_even = 68.0 Ω
Z_diff = 136 Ω
Z_common = 34.0 Ω

[1] IPC-2141A “Design Guide for High-Speed Controlled Impedance Circuit Boards”