Abstract: A printed circuit laminate is provided comprising at least one conductor trace for carrying forward electrical signals in a first direction of signal propagation. The printed circuit laminate also comprises a mesh reference plane, spaced from the at least one conductor trace, for carrying return electrical signals in a second direction. The mesh reference plane defines a plurality of cells. Each cell of the plurality of cells includes at least one axis of repetition. The plurality of cells are configured so that all of the axes of repetition of each cell are different from the first direction of signal propagation. Furthermore, the frequency of cell repetition along the first direction of signal propagation is chosen to reduce differences in transmission line impedance between any two conductors on the same laminate or any two conductors on different laminates.

Abstract: Serpentine trace patterns are used to add length to traces for matching delays to groups of signals on separate transmission pathways on circuit boards. By providing reverse coupling by patterning the traces in concentric fashion, this invention enables closer spacing between adjacent trace segments of the serpentine pattern.