Issue link: https://resources.pcb.cadence.com/i/1541046
20. Preventing Ground Loops and Unintentional Return Paths Ground loops (unintended, low-impedance current paths between different ground points) can introduce noise, offset voltages, and even destructive circulating currents in sensitive analog, mixed-signal, or high-power designs. Poor management of return paths, especially across multiple ground domains or at connectors, can cause measurement errors, spurious resets, EMI failures, and sometimes catastrophic damage to interfaces or power components. Proactively managing ground connectivity and return paths is essential for system reliability and clean signal performance. When And Where To Apply Consider ground loop and return path integrity during system partitioning, schematic planning, connector selection, and especially during placement and routing - for any design that includes: f Multiple boards interconnected by cables/shields f Mixed analog and digital circuitry f High-current power domains f Remote sensors or I/O wired to external systems f Shielded connectors, earth/chassis ground, or field wiring Ground Loop causes a cyclical flow of current that can cause interference and undesired noise in the signal lines