Through-hole assembly inserts component leads into board holes and creates the specified electrical and mechanical connections. The purchasing brief should identify how components are seated, supported, soldered and inspected, especially where connectors or heavier parts also carry mechanical loads.
Define the work and deliverable
Separate through-hole soldering from press-fit insertion and from final mechanical assembly. A connector may require a controlled seating height, fasteners or a specific insertion process as well as electrical connection. Ask the manufacturer to review the board thickness, hole information, component documentation and access available around the joints.
Files and requirements to send
- Assembly drawing identifying through-hole components, orientation, seating height and lead-trimming requirements.
- Board fabrication drawing and component datasheets, including relevant finished-hole and lead dimensions.
- Mixed-technology process restrictions, supplied-component packaging and any fixtures or mechanical support requirements.
Decisions to close before release
| Decision | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Mechanical fit | Confirm component seating, interference, board support and access to fasteners or test points. |
| Soldering scope | Identify joints, restricted areas and components with documented process limitations. |
| Verification | Specify the acceptance criteria and inspection records for the actual assembly construction. |
A practical planning example
A terminal block can be electrically correct yet obstruct an enclosure opening if its seating or alignment is uncontrolled. Include the mating enclosure or connector interface in the drawing review. Agree which dimensions are checked on the pilot before a larger quantity is released.
Is through-hole assembly the same as plated through-hole fabrication?
No. Fabrication creates the board and its plated-hole structure; assembly installs and connects components. Keep the board construction requirements in the fabrication package and component installation requirements in the assembly package.
Compare the complete proposal
Ask for the included work, exclusions, setup charges, material responsibilities and schedule dependencies in writing. Use the quote comparison checklist to keep the same configuration and acceptance scope across offers.
Confirm project fit
[NEEDS CLIENT INPUT]: verified manufacturing site, relevant process limits, available equipment, certificates, MOQ and committed lead times for this service. The requirements above are a project-planning guide; availability must be confirmed against your actual files.
Related work in your build
Prepare the RFQ checklist, review quality and project fit, or browse all services.