Learn the essential differences between analog ground (AGND) and power ground (PGND) in power regulator designs and when to use net ties to connect them. Tech Consultant Zach Peterson addresses a viewer question about proper PCB layout for buck converters with multiple ground pins, exploring data sheets from Texas Instruments to understand ground pin naming conventions and recommended connection methods.
Discover why some power regulators recommend connecting AGND and PGND with net ties instead of a single ground plane. Zach explains how component placement and current loop orientation can impact noise coupling between analog and power ground regions, providing practical advice for your next PCB design with switching regulators.
👉 Related Article: Should You Use Star Grounding for Analog and Digital Ground Separation:
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0:00 Intro
0:35 Viewer Question
1:46 Understanding the Viewer's Question
2:51 Texas Instruments Components Examples
5:13 Why Different Ground Pins Exist
9:09 PCB Layout Recommendations
10:27 Current Loops and Why They Matter
12:01 When to Use Net Ties vs Ground Planes
13:32 Conclusion and Practical Advice
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