WHITEPAPER: Understanding Printed Circuit Board Assembly
E lectronic devices make up a significant part of our daily routines. For many, our cell phones are the first thing we reference upon waking. This is often followed by using an electronic toothbrush, programmable coffee maker, or microwave oven – you get the picture. At the center of these and many other electronic devices is a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) or multiple PCBs. Understanding its makeup and the process by which it becomes a Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) is what we will answer (ANZER) in this document. The content sections include: Brief PCB Background Bare PCB Panels PCB is a Platform PCB Makeup: Rigid and Flex Component Placement Documentation Review Before Production Through-Hole Technology (THT) Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Application of SMT Solder Paste SMT Component Placement SMT Reflow Soldering SMT Inspection THT and SMT Assembly Combined THT and SMT Component Board Washing Functional Testing Final Inspection, Final Thoughts