gruenwald electronic

Technology

SMD or THT: which technology suits your assembly?

In short: SMD is the technology for compact, automatically built assemblies; THT remains the right choice for components under mechanical or thermal stress such as connectors and power electronics. Many assemblies need both.

Leiterplatte auf der Schiene der SMD-Fertigungslinie

When SMD is the right choice

SMD components are placed on the board surface and soldered in the reflow oven. Our line handles components from 01005 to 80 x 80 mm at up to 36,000 components per hour, so SMD suits everything from prototype to series.

When THT is the right choice

THT components are inserted through the board and soldered. The joints are mechanically strong and resistant to vibration and temperature changes. That makes THT the first choice for connectors, power electronics and components under high load. In service, THT components are also easier to replace.

And if you need both?

Then mixed technology is the answer: SMD for the bulk of the components, THT for the connectors or the power stage. If both sides of the board are populated, we solder THT components with the selective soldering process.

How to proceed

Send us your enquiry. We look at your assembly together and tell you which technology we recommend. See also SMD assembly and THT assembly.

Related

Updated: 19 October 2026

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