PCB assembly technology is constantly advancing, with the latest being Surface Mount Technology (SMT). Surface Mount Technology is a technique in which electrical parts are directly mounted into a printed circuit board surface. Furthermore, SMT assembly is an automated process that has replaced the traditional through-hole technology technique of fitting parts. In addition, each new advancement in technology comes with several benefits. Thus, this article aims to inform you of the seven benefits of SMT PCB assembly.
Seven benefits of SMT PCB assembly
1. Minimal error
SMT assembly processes are automated. Therefore, the automated processes ensure that there is little or no room for error. Furthermore, machines are different from human operations. Thus, human operation’s minimal interruptions also contribute to ensuring the SMT assembly processes have minimal errors. In addition, the solder surface pressure ensures that all the components are appropriately aligned with solder pads, therefore reducing any placement errors.
2. Efficient
SMT assembly ensures that all printed circuit board space is used efficiently. The space efficiency is attributed to the ability of SMT to use smaller components. For example, a process that may have taken one to two hours in the traditional through-hole can now take ten to fifteen minutes.
3. Reduced manufacturing costs
SMT assembly was innovated with the primary purpose of increasing efficiency and reducing production costs. The process requires drilling fewer holes into the circuit board, therefore reducing handling and processing costs by a significant value. Furthermore, the SMT assembly process can be used for mass production, thus, reducing per-unit costs.
Additionally, because of the automated system, setting up for high volumes of production is much cheaper. Also, unlike in through holes assembly, most SMT component’s prices are very reasonable.
4. Good mechanical performance
SMT assembly’s good mechanical performance can be attributed due to less cantilevering and lower mass. Furthermore, good mechanical performance is attained under vibration and shock conditions. Thus, ensuring all the manufacturing processes are undertaken effectively and smoothly.
5. Reduction of electrical noise
One of the best benefits of SMT assembly is that the design section can positively reduce electrical noise. In addition to noise reduction, SMT assembly in the design section can also help to save weight.
6. Reduction in the number of holes that required to be drilled
The procedures involved in drilling circuit boards can be very expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, the innovations present in SMT allow for fewer holes to be drilled. Thus, save on time used for drilling. The saved time can be used to drill holes into other boards, increasing the volume of drilled circuit boards.
7. Simplicity
SMT components connection is straightforward, unlike through holes where wires need to bypass holes to join with the components. The main rationale for simplicity is because SMT parts are soldered on the circuit board. Also, the simplicity of SMT allows for machine placement of about 136,000 parts in one hour.
Conclusion
Technology is consistently changing. Each new advancement comes with better processes. Therefore, the SMT assembly technology is currently used by most manufacturers. Furthermore, as you can note from above, the use of Surface Mount Technology ensures efficiency, quality, and affordability in PCB manufacturing.
