Plated Through-Hole PCBs

 Plated Through-Hole (PTH) assembly involves inserting component leads through pre-drilled, plated holes in a printed circuit board and soldering them to create secure electrical and mechanical connections. This method is chosen for its strength and durability, especially in high-reliability environments such as industrial or automotive applications. PTH assembly ensures components remain firmly attached, providing excellent performance under mechanical stress, vibration, and heat, where surface mount technology alone may not be sufficient.

 No, Altimex does not manufacture or plate PCBs. Our expertise lies in the assembly of components onto PCBs supplied by our clients or sourced through our approved supply chain. These boards arrive ready for use, with all drilling and plating already completed. We then focus on the precise insertion, soldering, and testing of components to ensure exceptional mechanical strength, reliability, and compliance with customer specifications and IPC standards for through-hole PCB assembly.

 Through-hole PCB assembly supports a wide range of leaded components, including resistors, capacitors, connectors, transformers, diodes, and integrated circuits. This assembly method is particularly beneficial for components that experience physical stress or high thermal loads, as the through-hole process offers stronger mechanical anchoring. PTH is often used in conjunction with surface mount technology, enabling robust hybrid assemblies that combine reliability with design flexibility across various industrial, automotive, and aerospace electronic systems.

 Altimex uses both wave soldering and selective soldering techniques, depending on the design and application requirements. Wave soldering is typically used for high-volume production, offering consistent joints across the entire board. Selective soldering provides precision for complex assemblies or mixed-technology designs, targeting only specific areas. Both methods ensure durable mechanical bonds and excellent electrical performance. Each process is controlled and verified through inspection and testing to maintain quality, consistency, and full compliance with IPC standards.

 Yes. Altimex is equipped to handle both small prototype builds and large-scale production runs. Our flexible processes allow us to adapt to different volumes without compromising quality. Prototypes and small batches benefit from meticulous manual handling and detailed inspection, while automated systems are used for larger quantities to ensure repeatability and efficiency. Regardless of batch size, every assembly undergoes rigorous testing, ensuring each product meets exacting standards for durability, reliability, and electrical performance.

Quality and reliability are central to our assembly process. Every PCB undergoes detailed visual inspection, solder joint evaluation, and electrical continuity testing. Where required, we also perform functional testing to verify performance under operating conditions. Our technicians work in accordance with IPC-A-610 and J-STD standards, ensuring all assemblies meet industry benchmarks. Continuous monitoring, traceability, and documentation guarantee consistency across batches, resulting in high-quality assemblies that deliver dependable long-term performance in demanding environments.

 Lead times depend on factors such as project complexity, quantity, and component availability. Standard through-hole assembly orders at Altimex are typically completed within two to six weeks. This timeframe includes component preparation, assembly, soldering, inspection, and testing. For urgent requirements, we can offer expedited services where possible. Our planning and scheduling systems ensure reliable delivery, maintaining flexibility to accommodate prototype work, medium-scale production, or high-volume manufacturing runs without compromising quality or consistency.