It’s no surprise Surface-Mount Technology (SMT) has become the most widely used method for PCB assembly. Unlike Through-Hole Technology, SMT relies on automated production lines to mount components on both sides of a circuit board, eliminating the need for drilling holes through it.
This technological advancement has revolutionised modern electronics and offers numerous advantages, such as reduced manufacturing costs, compact designs and enhanced performance. Over time, the applications of this technology have expanded into many industries and devices.
What are the applications of SMT?
SMT allows for the assembly of smaller, lighter and more powerful PCBs. The automation of the process means a greater density of component mounting can be achieved: a large number of components can be placed on small circuit boards.
In addition, the automation of surface-mount technology makes this type of PCB assembly significantly quicker, as components can be mounted faster, and provides greater uniformity in terms of component soldering.
As a result, SMT offers greater efficiency for PCB assembly with complex requirements and makes the process highly suited to smaller electronic products, where the focus is on reducing size while maintaining or increasing power. It is used for products that range from USB flash drives and smartphones to medical devices and portable navigation systems.
Consumer Electronics
One of the most obvious ways we experience Surface-Mount Technology is through the devices we rely on daily: our smartphones, laptops, tablets and wearables. That sleek, lightweight phone in your pocket or the smartwatch on your wrist owe their design to SMT. This technology allows manufacturers to fit more power into less space, creating smaller, more advanced devices without compromising functionality. It’s the reason we get faster processing speeds, longer battery life and bigger storage in gadgets that fit in the palm of our hand.
In the world of electronics, SMT is proof of the saying “good things come in small packages”.
Examples of SMT applications in consumer electronics
- Smartphones
- Gaming Consoles
- Digital Cameras
Medical Devices
In the world of medical devices, precision and reliability aren’t just important, they’re life-saving and that’s why Surface-Mount Technology is crucial.
From pacemakers that keep hearts beating steadily to hearing aids that open the world of sound, SMT plays a quiet but important role. Its compact and efficient design allows these medical devices to become smaller, lighter and more comfortable for patients, making a life-changing difference.
Examples of SMT applications in medical devices
- Pacemakers
- Hearing Aids
- Glucose Monitors
Automotive Industry
The automotive industry is experiencing rapid technological change and Surface-Mount Technology is at the forefront of this transformation.
Whether it’s the sensors that help a car brake automatically or the GPS that keeps the driver on course, SMT plays a vital role in making these innovations possible.
Examples of SMT applications in the automotive industry
- Cruise Control
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Electric Vehicle Battery Management Systems
Aerospace and Defence
For aerospace and defence applications, there’s a need for tough and dependable components that can handle extreme conditions, such as high pressure, temperature fluctuations and mechanical stress. Surface-Mount Technology fits the bill perfectly; compact design helps create lightweight yet durable electronic systems that keep performing reliably, even in the harshest environments.
Examples of SMT applications in aerospace and defence
- GPS Satellites
- Radar Technology
- Electronic Warfare Systems
Telecommunications
Surface-Mount Technology plays a significant role in the telecommunications industry, supporting the devices we use for data and networking. Routers, modems and base stations – they all use SMT to handle high-speed data and maintain reliable connections.
Examples of SMT applications in telecommunications
- Modems
- Wi-Fi Routers
- Set-Top Boxes
Benefits of SMT electronics assembly
The use of SMT electronics assembly offers a number of benefits to manufacturers, which are important to consider when choosing which process to use for your application.
SMT electronics assembly allows for:
- The manufacture of products with ever smaller dimensions – very small and sensitive components, such as resistors and diodes, can be mounted on circuit boards.
- Circuit boards to be assembled at a much faster rate – high volumes of PCBs can be assembled quickly, reducing production times and generating cost-efficiencies as a result.
- Complex and unique assembly requirement – it is highly customisable and has the power and flexibility to meet these types of PCB assembly demands.
- Greater control of the width of route traces – helps to reduce mechanical heat and noise, thereby improving the quality and performance of your product.
Surface-mount technology and your PCB assembly partner
If you are looking to find out whether SMT is right for you, contact MPE Electronics who will examine your application, assess your assembly requirements and make sure that you use the correct technology, whether it’s SMT assembly or an alternative.
To find out how MPE Electronics’ PCB assembly services can benefit your business, contact us on +44 (0)1825 764822 or enquiries@mpe-electronics.co.uk.
