Surface Mount Technology
Why Choose MPE SMT Assembly Services?
At MPE Electronics, we specialise in delivering high-precision SMT assembly services for clients across a wide range of industries. Operating from our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in West Sussex, we provide scalable, cost-effective solutions for complex and custom PCB SMT assembly requirements. Whether you need rapid prototyping or full production runs, our Surface Mount Technology capabilities ensure consistently high standards, fast turnaround, and reliable product performance.
What is PCB SMT Assembly?
PCB SMT Assembly is the process of mounting electronic components directly onto a printed circuit board (PCB), rather than inserted through holes, using surface mount technology (SMT).
As the most commonly used process in modern electronics manufacturing, surface mount technology (SMT) allows for greater component density, increased functionality, and more compact circuit board designs. It is ideal for projects that demand accuracy, speed, and space efficiency.
Key Benefits of SMT Assembly Over Traditional Methods
Compact and Lightweight Design
SMT assembly services allow for a higher density of components, making it ideal for smaller and lighter devices without sacrificing performance.
Cost-Effective Manufacturing
Compared to through-hole technology, PCB SMT assembly services reduce material costs and assembly time, resulting in a more economical production process.
Improved Soldering Precision
Automated SMT assembly machines ensure consistent soldering quality, reducing the risk of defects and improving overall reliability.
Enhanced Electrical Performance
Better control over trace routing minimises electrical noise and thermal issues, helping to deliver superior product performance.
Customisation & Flexibility
PCB SMT assembly is well-suited to complex and customised PCB designs, supporting fast prototyping and scalable production runs.
Read our Surface Mount Technology guide to learn more.
Industries We Work With
At MPE Electronics, our SMT assembly services are trusted by a wide range of sectors that demand precision, speed, and reliability. From life-saving medical equipment to advanced industrial systems, we support OEMs and product developers across high-tech industries with high-quality PCB SMT assembly.
Medical Devices
We work with manufacturers of medical technology to deliver high-reliability PCB SMT assemblies for diagnostic equipment, monitoring systems, wearable devices and more.
Industrial and Automation
For industrial controls, robotics, and automation systems, we provide durable and consistent SMT assembly services designed for performance in demanding environments.
Security
We support the development and production of advanced security technology, including access control systems, surveillance equipment, and alarm systems.
SMT services for other sectors
We also deliver SMT assembly services to a variety of other sectors, from automotive and aerospace to military & defence. View all the sectors we serve.
Our Process
Mixed Technology Assembly and Multi-Layer PCBs
A combination of both Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Through Hole Technology (THT), known as ‘mixed-technology assembly’, is often employed to leverage the benefits of each method, while multilayer PCBs offer indispensable complexity and space efficiency.
With MPE’s multidisciplinary experience you can achieve:
Single side mixed assembly, whereby a single-side PCB undergoes both SMT and THT assembly processes
One side SMT and one side THT, whereby one side of the PCB is an SMT assembly and the other is a THT assembly
Double side mixed assembly, whereby both sides undergo both SMT and THT assembly processes
Our engineers use the Gerber data pack, that includes an XY data file, to program our pick-and-place machines with precision, ensuring compliance with IPC-A-610 class standards.
New Product Introduction
New Product Introduction (NPI) is an essential part of the work we do with our customers. Together we will map out the electronics NPI procedure, taking your product design from initial working prototype through to a refined and reproducible final product.
The NPI procedure requires a significant investment of time and resources, detailing the production phases required to meet your specification and how this results in a finished product for the marketplace.
This detailed process planning is an aspect of MPE Electronics service that is founded on trust and open communication with our clients.
When partnering with us, you can expect a meticulous NPI service involving:
Initial product design
Primary prototyping
Product development
Secondary prototyping
Pre-production manufacturing
Full manufacturing
Learn more about our NPI procedure and how it supports your product development process here.
End of Life (EOL) Notifications
End of Life (EOL) notifications, or Product Discontinuance Notices (PDNs), alert manufacturers to materials or parts discontinuation.
MPE’s robust relationships with approved suppliers ensures the prompt receipt of EOL notifications for any parts we usually purchase.
Upon receipt of an EOL notification, we pass it straight on to our customers complete with any alternatives suggested or last time buy (LTB) recommendations. We will work with the customer to find the most suitable way forward e.g. if a sample batch of assemblies fitted with an alternative part is required for testing and verifying that it’s fit for purpose and placing a LTB order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the typical lead time for your SMT assembly services?
Lead times can vary depending on the complexity of the project, component availability, and volume requirements.
Can you handle both low and high-volume PCB assembly?
Yes – our SMT assembly services are fully scalable. Whether you need a small batch for prototyping or large-scale production runs, our facility is equipped to handle a wide range of volumes without compromising quality or turnaround.
Are your SMT services compliant with IPC or ISO standards?
Absolutely. All of our SMT assembly work is carried out in accordance with IPC-A-610 Class 2 or Class 3 standards, depending on your project requirements. Our processes are backed by ISO 9001:2015 certification, ensuring consistent quality management and reliable delivery at every stage of production.
Speak to Our SMT Assembly Experts
Looking for reliable, high-precision PCB SMT assembly services? Whether you need PCB SMT assembly for rapid prototyping, low-volume runs, or full-scale production, MPE Electronics delivers fast, accurate, and cost-effective solutions from our UK-based facility.
Call us on 01825 764822 to speak to our SMT assembly specialists or request a quotation today.
