Mixed PCB Assembly – Benefits and Applications Discussed
The demand for compact-sized, high-speed, and performance-driven electronics has increased significantly. This very factor has driven the demand for complex circuit board designs and assemblies incorporated in electronic devices. Also, the placement of components on the circuit board has become increasingly complex. Components are mounted using either through hole or surface mounting techniques. However, depending upon the application requirement, most circuit boards require to carry both through-hole and SMD components. This can be achieved through the integration of THT and SMT techniques. This is where mixed PCB assembly makes a significant difference.
Overview of Mixed PCB Assembly
Surface mount technology involves placing components on the surface of the PCB and soldering them in place, whereas through-hole technology involves inserting components through holes in the PCB and soldering them on the opposite side. Each method has its advantages and is suitable for specific types of components:
Surface Mount Technology (SMT):
- SMT components are typically smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective.
- SMT allows for higher component density, leading to smaller PCB sizes.
- Automated assembly is easier with SMT components, reducing production time and costs.
- Through-hole components tend to be more robust and can handle higher currents or mechanical stress.
- They are often used for components requiring higher reliability or power capabilities.
- Through-hole technology may be preferred for certain components that are not available in SMT packages.
Why is Mixed PCB Assembly So Popular?
Owing to its beneficial features, mixed PCB assembly finds applications across industries. Some key benefits offered by these circuit board assemblies are as follows.
- One of the significant benefits of these PCB assemblies is that it has properties of both through-hole technology (THT) and surface mount technology (SMT). These two methods have unique benefits, which excel in their own areas of fabrication. This improves the efficiency of production and also reduces overall costs.
- The layout stage is of utmost importance in mixed assembly placement. Design for manufacturability (DFM) is commonly used in the layout phase of hybrid model assemblies. This brings down the number of components or parts in the product. Lessening the product parts entails less development and processing time, assembly difficulties, service inspection, and much more.
- Apart from predominant functions, many layout parts have self-aligning features. This facilitates effective layout modules for these circuit board assemblies. The modular layout streamlines the designing process, adds versatility to parts, and minimizes product variations.
Applications of Mixed PCB Assembly
The aforementioned benefits of these circuit boards have immensely contributed to their popularity. PCBs manufactured using mixed technology find use in several electronic and electromechanical applications. The following are some major and common applications of these assemblies.
- CPUs
- IoT Hardware
- Sensor Boards
- Server Boards
- Video Processing
- LED Lighting Products
- Communication Hardware
- Smartphone Accessories
- Industrial Controller Assemblies
If you are looking for a mixed PCB assembly for your applications, you must get the PCBA done by a trustworthy, highly experienced PCB manufacturer and assembler who thoroughly understand your application needs, Please contact us and get an online quote now.