Gradual evolution of printed circuit boards has made PCBs a critical, efficient, and compact component of a wide gamut of automobiles, machines and devices, computing terminals and other electronics. The introduction of PCBs has also contributed to certain technological developments and inventions in the global electronics industry. The ability of PCBs to connect a single electronic component with the electronics designs in order to render functionality to the entire setting is undeniable. There are several different technique used to assemble PCBs and Surface Mount Technology (SMT) is considered the most preferred of them all.
Reasons why SMT assembly for PCBs is preferred
Time Efficient: The introduction of SMT technique has provided a more time-efficient assembly process in comparison to its order counterparts like point-to-point and through-hole assembly. These 2 techniques that were prevalent before the advent of SMT used to consume a lot of time in assembling as the technicians required using solder pads to the PCB frame. Besides, these older and time-consuming assembly methods would also require connecting wires that was a proven time-consuming method. On the other hand, SMT technique solders the components to the PCB surface without using through-hole connection points. This process also allows PCBs to be manufactured via automation, thus saving even more time.
Cost Efficiency: The newer, more innovative and time-saving assembly process of SMT technique has also provided a cost efficient way of PCB assembly. This has been made possible due to the automation and the ability to manufacture a wide number of low-profile PCBs simultaneously. This way SMT assembly technique could considerably bring down the costs of production to highly exciting price points.
Maximum Usability: Unlike the older methods, SMT technique utilizes smaller and light-weight components that make the entire PCB more compact, slender and convenient to use along with greater energy and functionality. Being lightweight and smaller, these PCBs can be conveniently used in a wide array of advanced electronic products and devices including laptops, smart phones and other smaller and portable electronic devices. No wonder why surface mount technology technique is widely accepted by most OEM machinery designers and engineers.
It requires no special training: Some people have misconceptions regarding SMT technique that the same requires some sort of special training or advanced and expensive equipment to assemble and other rare components. Whereas the truth is that SMT technique does not require any special training and can be done flawlessly with practice, proper knowledge, steady hand and good eyesight. Besides, a good pair of tweezers and some sort of magnification is required.