something about PTH

In the field of PCB (Printed Circuit Board), PTH stands for "Plated-Through Hole", also commonly known as "via". It is a technology that forms an electrical connection between layers by filling or plating conductive material (usually copper or copper alloy) in the holes of the PCB board.

Today I'd like to share something about PTH.

There are two main uses of vias in PCB design:

1.As component plug-in holes: also known as "plug holes". The legs of the components are inserted into these holes, and then soldered at the other end of the hole, achieving the purpose of fixing the components and connecting them electrically to the PCB.

2.As vias: also known as "jumper holes" or "routing holes". Its main function is to achieve electrical connections between layers in the PCB, realizing complex circuit routing. For example, connect a component's leg on the top layer to another component on the bottom layer.

In modern PCB design, via technology is still widely used. Although the trend of miniaturization and high density of electronic devices makes Surface-Mount Technology (SMT) more and more popular, via technology still has its unique advantages and application scenarios.
Here are some examples:

1.In some large or heavy components, such as high-power transformers, capacitors or inductors, through-hole mounting is still the first choice because they require stronger mechanical fixation.

2.Through-hole mounting is suitable for components that need to dissipate heat through the PCB.

3.Vias are also used as test points. During the production and testing of the PCB, electrical testing can be conveniently carried out.

4.There are also some special design requirements. For example, in the case of requiring large-current transmission or needing to prevent electromagnetic interference, through-hole mounting is often chosen.

Therefore, it can be said that although surface-mount technology has become mainstream in many applications, via technology is still indispensable in many specific applications.