Backplane databus utilizing directional couplers

A backplane databus and bussing method provide multidrop signal distribution using capacitive and inductive coupling of a main signal. A main signal loop on the backplane has a plurality of coupling loops coupled thereto for a respective length LC. The main signal, typically a NRZ trapezoidal shaped waveform is coupled into the coupling loops as a bipolar signal. The main signal loop is terminated by a resistor having a resistance equal to the characteristic impedance of the track forming the main signal loop. Similarly, the coupling loops are terminated at a far end by resistors whose impedance is equal to the characteristic of the track forming the coupling loop. The near end of the loop is connected to a receiver having a matching input impedance.