PCB is an acronym for printed circuit board. It has traces that electrically connect the various connectors and components to each other. PCB assembly (PCBA) is a term used in electronics manufacturing that describes the process of soldering or assembly of electronic components to printed circuit boards (PCB). Components are either attached using surface-mount technology (SMT) or through-hole technology. An ideal PCBA design begins with the design of an efficient PCB and continues through the soldering phase. A poor printed circuit board design can lead to issues during PCBA.
Printed Circuit Board Assembly Process
The process of PCB assembly involves the placement of components onto a bare printed circuit board. This process is either done by hand or through automated machines. Automated machines are more preferred because they provide better accuracy and speed compared to manual methods. The use of these machines also helps in reducing the overall cost of production. The automated machines used for this process come in two forms, surface mount technology and through-hole technology.
As the technology world has evolved, so has the need for speed in developing and producing a new product. These days, an electronics product can easily end up being obsolete before you are able to get it to market. This is especially true as we have moved into a new era of rapid prototyping – where development cycles can be completed in a matter of weeks and not months or years.
With this in mind, it is important that companies seeking this service understand the difference between SMT and through hole technology when selecting their contract manufacturer (CM).
The type of PCB assembly chosen depends on various factors – including manufacturing costs and design requirements such as end-product size, production volume and product life expectancy.
What is the difference between (PCB Assembly) SMT and through hole technology?
PCB assembly is a process that requires a great deal of attention and experience. It is a critical aspect of electronics manufacturing, which involves the placement of components onto a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCBs are designed with different technologies: SMT and through hole technology. You can also read the difference between PCB and PCBA.
SMT (Surface Mount Technology)
This technology uses surface mount components. PCBs are made by placing small components that are soldered to the board surface. SMT is widely used in manufacturing because of its advantages over other technologies:
- The boards take up less space
- Its production costs are lower as it uses cheaper components
- Automated assembly lines allow for faster production times
PCBs made using SMT can have better electrical properties. They can be lighter and smaller than those manufactured with other technologies. They also have better high-frequency characteristics, which makes them ideal for wireless applications.
Through Hole Technology
Unlike SMT, this technology uses pins. In this case, the components are inserted through the holes in the board to connect them to the opposite side where they are soldered. Although this method is more expensive, it offers better heat dissipation and mechanical strength than SMT. It is often used in prototypes as well as power electronics products such as transformers.
Picking a PCB assembly provider
There is a lot of assembly companies you can find on the internet each claiming to be the best in the electronics industry. However, you need to consider certain factors in order to make sure you are choosing the right one for your assembling requirements. Not to mention, the no.1 factor is the cost. You should try to get a reputed provider within your budget. Other important factors include the experience of the provider, certifications, clients of all sized businesses, and more.
You can also take references from your friends and colleagues.
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