11.1.5 Crosstalk and Ground Bounce Minimization

To reduce crosstalk, it is important to provide a return path to high-frequency currents that is as close to its originating trace as possible. A ground plane usually achieves this. Because the returning currents always choose the path of lowest inductance, they are most likely to return directly under the original trace, thus minimizing crosstalk. Lowering the area of the current loop lowers the potential for crosstalk. Traces kept as short as possible with an uninterrupted ground plane running beneath them emit the minimum amount of electromagnetic field strength. Discontinuities in the ground plane increase the return path inductance and should be avoided.