AN217.pdf ... Here is a list of notes concerning the use of the C8051F35x on a circuit board: Use ground planes: Typically a minimum of 4-layers should be used. Connect components’ ground pins directly to the plane. Use copper plane fill between traces on the signal layers, and connect the fill to ground using vias (do not leave “floating” copper). Separate analog and digital ground planes can be used; connect them in one place. Design a few locations for connection so that the best connection can be tested, usually near the ADC or near the power supply to the board. See AN203 for details and recommended layer assignments for ground, power, and signal planes. ...