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A PCB designer placed a guard trace next to a sensitive signal but did not connect it to ground. What is the likely problem?

medium📝 Formula Fix Q14 of 15
PCB Design - Advanced Routing Techniques
A PCB designer placed a guard trace next to a sensitive signal but did not connect it to ground. What is the likely problem?
AThe guard trace will short the signal to power, damaging components
BThe guard trace will not shield the signal effectively, allowing noise to interfere
CThe guard trace will increase signal speed unexpectedly
DThe guard trace will cause the signal to become inverted
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
  1. Step 1: Understand grounding importance for guard traces

    Guard traces must be grounded to provide a low-noise shield. Without grounding, they cannot absorb or redirect noise.
  2. Step 2: Evaluate consequences of ungrounded guard trace

    Without grounding, the guard trace acts like a floating conductor, failing to shield and possibly picking up noise.
  3. Final Answer:

    The guard trace will not shield the signal effectively, allowing noise to interfere -> Option B
  4. Quick Check:

    Guard trace grounding = Effective shielding [OK]
Quick Trick: Guard traces must be grounded to shield signals properly [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES
  • Assuming ungrounded guard traces protect signals
  • Thinking ungrounded guard traces cause shorts
  • Believing guard traces affect signal polarity

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