Three-phase AC distribution system and method for printed circuit boards

Abstract

A system and method for distributing three-phase alternating current on a printed circuit board are provided. The system comprises a connector having a plurality of pins and a corresponding trace on the printed circuit board for each of the pins. The spacing between adjacent traces satisfies a first minimum spacing requirement, and the spacing between alternating traces satisfies a second minimum spacing requirement larger than the first minimum spacing requirement. When the system is employed in an environment that imposes the second minimum spacing requirement, the traces are defined such that the different phases of the alternating current are carried on alternating traces with the traces in between defined as neutrals. When the system is employed in an environment that imposes the first minimum spacing requirement, the traces can be defined such that the different phases of the alternating current are carried on adjacent traces. Distribution density is optimized while enabling the same system to be used in environments that impose either of the two minimum spacing requirements.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.