Signals Always Return Home

A signal trace is only half of the electrical path.

Every signal needs a return current, and for high-speed designs, that current naturally follows the path of least impedance through the reference plane beneath the trace. When the ground plane is continuous, the return path remains short and predictable.

Interruptions such as splits, slots, or large voids in the reference plane can force the return current to detour, increasing loop area and potentially degrading signal integrity.

When routing high-speed signals, reviewing the return path is just as important as reviewing the trace itself.

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