Through-hole PCB Assembly

What is Through-Hole PCB Assembly?

As technology rapidly advances, production methods are constantly becoming obsolete. Yet, though not used as often as before, some of these old methods thrive because the current technologies can’t outdo the benefits they offer.

Through-hole PCB assembly is one such method. Before inventing the Surface Mount Technology (SMT), all components were PCB assembled by inserting leads through the board’s component holes. Though the SMT assembly is cost-effective, more efficient, and accommodates denser boards, the through-hole PCB technology offers specific benefits that maintain its relevance.

Through-hole PCB assembly is the process of mounting electronic components with leads by inserting them through printed circuit boards (PCB) predrilled holes and soldering them to pads on the other side either manually or using automated insertion mount machines.

The solder joint has several benefits. It is the actual bond between the board and the components, and its quality equals the connection’s quality. While the solder joint appearance is insignificant, it indicates the strength of the bond.

Benefits of Through-Hole PCB Assembly

• Enhanced physical connections – through-hole PCB integrations can withstand excess environmental stress since they’re inserted through the board and not merely secured to the board’s surface like SMT assemblies.
• Easy to prototype – besides being very reliable, you can swap out through-hole connections easily.
• High heat resistance – besides their durability in acute collisions and accelerations, through-hole PCB high heat resistance makes them ideal for aerospace and military products.
• Better power-handling capacity – through-hole technology creates a strong connection between the chip on board and components that undergo high voltage, mechanical stress, and high power, including electrolytic capacitors and transformers.