# How to model PCB Trace with RLC?

I have a PCB board with the stackup shown below. I want to calculate what would be the impedance (and capacitance too?) of a 5" PCB trace on the L1 layer.

How to calculate it?

For example, I am trying to use this calculator (https://www.eeweb.com/toolbox/microstrip-impedance/), what should be the value of the fields?

• The link you posted has a diagram showing what "T", "H", and "W" are. "Er" is a clunky way of writing $\varepsilon_r$, which is another name for "Dk", which is given on your stackup chart. – The Photon Oct 4 '16 at 4:54
• I know "W" = Width?, "H"=Height? (is that 2.1mil for L1?) and what is "T"? I guess where is the place to put the LENGTH of the trace? – user1406716 Oct 4 '16 at 4:55
• "T" is the thickness of the metal. In the "Thickness" column of your table. The characteristic impedance does not depend on the length of the trace. – The Photon Oct 4 '16 at 5:03
• So a 2" trace or a 4" trace would have the same impedance? and What should i use as the Capacitance? – user1406716 Oct 4 '16 at 5:04
• The same characteristic impedance. That is not the same as having the same impedance. You should probably research transmission line theory to understand what you're getting in to. – The Photon Oct 4 '16 at 5:05

Say your calculator says the capacitance is 1.7 pF per inch and the inductance is 12.2 nH per inch. Then you can break up your 4" trace into as many sections as you want. Each section of length L (for example L=0.4" if you break your 4" trace into 10 sections) will have 1.7 $\times$ L pF and 12.2 $\times$ L nH, arranged in either a pi or T circuit.
• It might be better to suggest the ltline, even if it tends to be sluggish given certain conditions. The tline is a rather simple approach, and it overshoots easily, even in ideal conditions: try, for example, a current source with pwl 0 1 0 1m, two or more tlines with Td=1 Z0=1 and a terminating 1 Ohm resistor. Plot all the intermediary voltages and you'll see what I mean. Alternatively, it might be even better to model your own RLC, even at the cost of extra elements/nodes, because then you can also model coupled inductors. Of course, there will be a penalty... – a concerned citizen Oct 4 '16 at 7:31