Introduction to PCB assembly
Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly is the process of attaching electronic components to a PCB to create a functional electronic device. There are two main types of PCB assembly techniques: surface mount technology (SMT) and through-hole technology (THT). In this article, we will focus on Through-hole PCB assembly and the companies that specialize in this technique.
What is Thru Hole PCB Assembly?
Through-hole PCB assembly involves inserting component leads through holes drilled in the PCB and soldering them to pads on the opposite side. This technique has been used for decades and is still popular for certain applications, particularly those that require high reliability or involve large components.
Advantages of Thru Hole PCB Assembly
- Stronger mechanical bonds between components and PCB
- Easier to visually inspect and troubleshoot
- Can handle higher power and voltage than SMT
- Suitable for larger components and connectors
Disadvantages of Thru Hole PCB Assembly
- Slower and more labor-intensive than SMT
- Requires more space on the PCB
- Higher cost for high-volume production
- Limited pin density compared to SMT
Top Thru Hole PCB Assembly Companies
1. Advanced Circuits
Advanced Circuits is a leading PCB manufacturer and assembly provider based in the United States. They offer both SMT and through-hole assembly services, with a focus on quick-turn prototypes and low-volume production. Advanced Circuits has a state-of-the-art facility and can handle a wide range of PCB designs and components.
2. AP Circuits
AP Circuits is a full-service PCB assembly company located in Canada. They specialize in through-hole assembly and offer a variety of services, including design assistance, component sourcing, and testing. AP Circuits has experience with a wide range of industries, including automotive, medical, and industrial controls.
3. CircuitWorks
CircuitWorks is a PCB assembly company based in the United Kingdom. They offer both SMT and through-hole assembly, as well as other services such as PCB design and prototyping. CircuitWorks has a dedicated through-hole assembly line and can handle both simple and complex designs.
4. PCB Express
PCB Express is a US-based PCB manufacturer and assembly provider. They offer through-hole assembly services for prototypes and low-volume production, with quick turnaround times and competitive pricing. PCB Express has a team of experienced engineers and technicians who can assist with PCB design and component selection.
5. PCB Solutions
PCB Solutions is a PCB assembly company located in Australia. They specialize in through-hole assembly and offer a range of services, including PCB design, component procurement, and testing. PCB Solutions has experience with a variety of industries, including defense, aerospace, and communications.
Thru Hole PCB Assembly Process
1. PCB Design and Fabrication
The first step in the through-hole PCB assembly process is to design and fabricate the PCB. This involves creating a schematic diagram of the circuit, laying out the components and traces on the PCB, and generating the necessary files for manufacturing. The PCB is then fabricated using a variety of techniques, such as etching, drilling, and plating.
2. Component Placement
Once the PCB is fabricated, the next step is to place the components on the board. This is typically done using a pick-and-place machine, which uses a vacuum nozzle to pick up each component and place it in the correct location on the PCB. The components are usually inserted into the holes on the PCB manually or using an automated insertion machine.
3. Soldering
After the components are placed on the PCB, they need to be soldered to the pads on the opposite side of the board. This is typically done using a wave soldering machine, which applies a wave of molten solder to the bottom of the PCB, coating the component leads and pads. Alternatively, selective soldering or hand soldering can be used for more complex or delicate components.
4. Inspection and Testing
Once the soldering is complete, the PCB needs to be inspected and tested to ensure that it is functioning correctly. This typically involves a combination of visual inspection, automated optical inspection (AOI), and electrical testing. Any defects or issues are identified and corrected at this stage.
5. Finishing and Packaging
The final step in the through-hole PCB assembly process is finishing and packaging. This may involve applying a conformal coating to protect the PCB from moisture and contaminants, as well as labeling and packaging the finished product for shipping.
Choosing a Thru Hole PCB Assembly Company
Factors to Consider
When choosing a through-hole PCB assembly company, there are several factors to consider:
- Experience and expertise with through-hole assembly
- Quality control and testing procedures
- Turnaround time and pricing
- Range of services offered (e.g. design assistance, component sourcing)
- Industry certifications and standards compliance
- Customer support and communication
Questions to Ask
Before selecting a through-hole PCB assembly company, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure that they can meet your needs. Some questions to consider include:
- What is your experience with through-hole assembly?
- What types of components and PCBs can you work with?
- What is your typical turnaround time for through-hole assembly projects?
- What quality control and testing procedures do you have in place?
- Can you provide references or examples of previous through-hole assembly projects?
Conclusion
Through-hole PCB assembly is a reliable and robust technique for creating electronic devices, particularly those that require high reliability or involve large components. While it may be slower and more labor-intensive than surface mount technology, through-hole assembly still has a place in many industries and applications.
When selecting a through-hole PCB assembly company, it’s important to consider factors such as experience, quality control, turnaround time, and range of services offered. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can find a company that can meet your needs and help bring your electronic product to life.
FAQ
1. What is the difference between through-hole and surface mount PCB assembly?
Through-hole PCB assembly involves inserting component leads through holes drilled in the PCB and soldering them to pads on the opposite side. Surface mount PCB assembly, on the other hand, involves placing components directly onto pads on the surface of the PCB and soldering them in place. Through-hole assembly is typically used for larger components and connectors, while surface mount assembly is used for smaller components and higher-density designs.
2. Can through-hole PCB assembly be automated?
Yes, through-hole PCB assembly can be automated using machines such as pick-and-place machines and wave soldering machines. However, through-hole assembly is generally more labor-intensive and slower than surface mount assembly, which is more easily automated.
3. What are the advantages of through-hole PCB assembly over surface mount assembly?
Through-hole PCB assembly has several advantages over surface mount assembly, including:
– Stronger mechanical bonds between components and PCB
– Easier to visually inspect and troubleshoot
– Can handle higher power and voltage than surface mount assembly
– Suitable for larger components and connectors
4. What industries commonly use through-hole PCB assembly?
Through-hole PCB assembly is commonly used in industries that require high reliability or involve larger components, such as:
– Aerospace and defense
– Medical devices
– Industrial controls
– Automotive electronics
– Power supplies and chargers
5. How do I choose a through-hole PCB assembly company?
When choosing a through-hole PCB assembly company, consider factors such as:
– Experience and expertise with through-hole assembly
– Quality control and testing procedures
– Turnaround time and pricing
– Range of services offered (e.g. design assistance, component sourcing)
– Industry certifications and standards compliance
– Customer support and communication
It’s also a good idea to ask for references or examples of previous through-hole assembly projects to ensure that the company can meet your needs.
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