SMT is a significant advancement in the electronic manufacturing industry, which uses an efficient method of mounting the electronic component on the PCB. It is different from the THT assembly method in which the components are mounted by inserting their leads through the holes on the PCB. SMT helps in making small and efficient PCBs, which also enhance the product’s production within less time. Let’s discuss different types of SMT in electronics.
Types of SMT
SMT components are smaller in size, whether they are active or passive, attached to PCB. When these components are mounted, they form an SMT assembly of three types, which we’ll discuss below. Not only the sequence of the process is different, but also the required equipment varies for each kind.
Type I SMT
This type of SMT assembly uses SMT components only. In this type, after placing components on the PCB, solder in place using reflow soldering. The assembly in type 1 is either a single-sided or double-sided printing circle board.
Type II SMT
It might be a combination of type I and III and contain only discrete surface mount devices instead of active ones on the bottom side as it is a combination of SMDs and through-hole components (THCs). In this assembly, the SIMDs are placed, mounted, and soldered on the PCB with the help of reflow technology. While the THCs are inserted through leads into PCB holes, and soldering is done through wave technology.
Type III SMT
This assembly type can make only discrete surface-mount components mounted on the PCB. It makes them glued to the bottom side.
Types of SMT Soldering:
When it comes to SMT soldering, we will find two main types.
Reflow soldering
This is a type of soldering in which heat is given to melt the solder paste through an infrared oven or a conveyor belt oven. Once it melts down, this melted solder paste has been applied to the PCB and the SMDs, thus precisely and adequately placing the SMT components in place.
Wave soldering:
In this type of soldering, THCs are soldered to the PCB with the help of a wave of molten solder. The printed circuit board is passed over a molten solder wave, and the THCs are submerged in the solder.
Benefits of SMT
When it comes to the advantages of the SMT process, you will find it a much better option than THT.
- SMT components are smaller in size, which helps them to be a part of smaller PCBs. They are perfect to be mounted on smaller and more densely populated PCBs. This technology is ideal for utilizing portable electronic devices like smartphones and tablets.
- When it comes to expenses, SMT is always a budget-friendly option for all levels of manufacturers. Not only is the material less expensive but most of the work is done by automatic machines, which not only fast the manufacturing process but also demand less labor and thus cut the cost of labor.
- SMT components can deliver better electrical performance than counter THT components just because the SMTs are shorter leads. This is because shorter leads have less inductance and capacitance.
Conclusion
In this guide, we have discussed different types of SMT in electronics, what functions they perform, and how each type differs from the other. In addition, for your proper understanding, we have also discussed the two kinds of SMT soldering and a detailed discussion of the benefits of surface mounting technology.
