Surface mount technology (SMT) started in the 1960s and became more common in the 1980s. It is the dominant technology in use today. Through-hole technology is still in use, and will be for the foreseeable future, but the drive towards miniaturization of components is only possible with SMT and surface mount devices (SMD). While smaller SMD sizes allow for smaller, and more powerful, assemblies, they present many more challenges during the SMT assembly process.
SMTA - Surface Mount Technology Association is a non-profit international association of companies and individuals (totalling 4,000) involved in all aspects of advanced electronics assembly, surface mount and related technologies. Membership Info | SMTA Certification | Bookstore
IPC - Association Connecting Electronics Industries is a US-based trade association dedicated to the competitive excellence and financial success of its nearly 2,600 member companies which represent all facets of the electronic interconnection industry, including design, printed wiring board manufacturing and electronics assembly. Membership Info | Training & Certification Programs | Standards & Publications - Online Store
