What is the difference between SMT and SMD?
20 January 2025
Views: 1014
The terms SMT and SMD are commonly used in the electronics manufacturing industry, but many people still confuse their characteristics. Let's take a look at what the difference is.
What is SMT?
SMT is a method of assembling electronic components onto the surface of a PCB. Unlike traditional through-hole technology (inserting components into holes drilled on the PCB), SMT places components directly on the surface of the board.
What is SMD?
SMD is the electronic component itself. SMDs do not have pins like traditional through-hole components. Instead, they have small pads or terminals that can be soldered directly to the surface of the PCB.
The Key Differences Between SMT and SMD
| Aspect |
SMT |
SMD |
| Definition |
A manufacturing process to mount components onto PCBs. |
The components used in the SMT process. |
| Focus |
Refers to the technology and process. |
Refers to the physical components. |
| Role |
A technique for assembling PCBs. |
The parts that are assembled using SMT. |
| Examples |
Soldering, reflow ovens, pick-and-place machines. |
Resistors, capacitors, ICs, LEDs, transistors. |
Conclusion
In simple terms, SMT is the process of assembling components onto a PCB, while SMD refers to the components themselves.
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