Fast and Flexible PCB Parasitic Extraction from Gerber Files for Power Electronics Design Support

Abstract:
This paper illustrates a pre- and post-processing algorithm which extracts frequency-dependent parasitic components from printed circuit boards (PCB) directly from Gerber files and outputs graphically the impact on switching performance in order to compare different PCB layouts. The presented tool is solely based on open source software and is highly flexible in its usage. By using the tool a designer can simulate and evaluate the parasitic components on the PCB, which effects are especially dominant in high-frequency switching applications. The tools output data can be used to evaluate possible voltage overshoots, ringing, and even cross-talk between copper traces to minimize switching losses and electromagnetic interference (EMI). The designer can therefore prevent costly mistakes and unnecessary design steps.