DC-Loop Stray Inductance Characterization in Printed Circuit Board Using a Vector Network Analyzer

Stray inductance in the commutation loop causes oscillations that reduce power converter efficiency and increase electromagnetic noise. The fast switching of Wide Band-Gap (WBG) devices intensifies these effects. Accurate DC-loop inductance characterization is essential for design optimization and EMI modeling. This paper presents a method using incremental Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) measurements to isolate inductive contributions from the DC-link and Printed Circuit Board (PCB) without high-voltage testing. Applied to a GaN-based traction inverter, the approach enables pre-assembly analysis and effective switching characterization, offering a practical tool for improving system performance and reliability.