This document introduces the use of Altera Device-Specific Power Delivery Network (PDN) Tool.
The Device-Specific Power Delivery Network (PDN) Tool is a Microsoft Excel-based spreadsheet application designed to assist PCB designers in estimating the number, value, and type of decoupling capacitors required for efficient power delivery. It calculates an impedance profile based on user inputs such as board stackup, transient current information, and ripple specifications to meet a desired impedance target (ZTARGET). The tool is intended for use during the early design phase to explore various scenarios without extensive pre-layout simulations.
| Software Platform | Microsoft Excel-based spreadsheet tool |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Calculate impedance profile and optimum number of capacitors |
| Output Parameter | Device- and power rail-specific PCB decoupling cut-off frequency (F EFFECTIVE) |
The purpose of the PDN tool is to help design a robust power delivery network by determining an optimum number, type, and value of decoupling capacitors needed for selected device/power rail to meet the desired ZTARGET up to FEFFECTIVE.
No, the results obtained through the spreadsheet tool are intended only as a preliminary estimate and not as a specification.
Altera recommends a post-layout simulation approach using available EDA tools, such as Sigrity PowerSI, Ansoft SIWave, or Cadence Allegro PCB PI.