SMT assembly
It is the technology that allows us to mount various electronic components and modules on a PCB board. It involves various processes such as stencil preparation, solder pasting, and reflow. So, SMT involves extensive use of sophisticated machinery such as automated pick and place machines, X-ray machines, and machines for AOI.
Advantages of SMT assembly
The biggest advantage of SMT is that it allows us to significantly reduce various costs. So, these costs include board costs, material costs, handling costs, manufacturing costs, and distribution costs.
SMT also allows us to reduce the traces of routing. It enables us to reduce the size of the PCB and the number of holes that we might have to drill.
The process design of SMT is very economical. This is because it allows us to reduce weight, lease less real estate, and eliminate any sorts of electrical noise.
SMT components weigh only a fraction of their counterparts from other conventional technologies. Hence, the final surface mount assembly is much lighter than alternative electronic products.
So, it is possible for us to pack surface mount PCB assembly into limited spaces. Hence, we save a lot in terms of packaging costs as well.
In the modern electronics, we tend to prefer denser products because they are more efficient. Hence, SMT allows us to easily achieve this goal.
Disadvantages of SMT assembly
The small space between adjacent electronic components makes it difficult for subsequent repairs.
We cannot use SMT for mounting electronic components which generate a lot of heat.
The solder we use in SMT might weaken if we expose the assembly to high mechanical stresses. Hence, we have to practice caution during handling.
SMD assembly
SMD refers to any small electronic device or electronic component that we can mount on a PCB board. So, we specifically design them so that we can mount them on PCB boards in later stages.
Hence, SMD assembly is ideal for microelectronic applications only. Typical example of SMD includes a process mounted on a computer’s motherboard.
Advantages of SMD assembly
It involves much smaller electronic components. Hence, we are able to achieve much higher component densities. Therefore, we are able to achieve more electronic connections through each component.
Disadvantages of SMD assembly
We cannot use SMD directly with the breadboards. So, we have to look for alternatives.
If we use materials that go through thermal cycling then the solder connections of SMD might get damaged.