At 13:01 20/07/99 -0500, you wrote:
>>
>> What's people's experience with SMT connectors?
>
>
>Depends on the connector. I'd be very nervous if the only mechanical support
>for a large-ish connector was smd pads. I use thruhole connectors for that
>reason. I also like a lot of insertion force, (my definition of "captive"
>cables: If you can swing the product around your head by the cable, then
>it's captive)
>
>YMMV
>
>


I have seem many responses to this topic and most seem to look at it from
the user point. Well perhaps we can sway that a bit.

The first point is "Why have a connector"
The second is "Who will access the connector"
The last point "How many times do you expect the connection to be made"

Of course that is only a short list and many other points are to always be
considered. The idea behind  surface mount connectors is the same as for
any other component, save space cost etc.
The connector mounted on the hard disk is a classic example, How many times
is it removed during normal service? What sort of environmental conditions
does it incur? Perhaps it is in one of the best locations.

So realy if the connector is only to mate one card to another and the
stresses placed on it are minor, then use surface mount (IDC header types
ones). However if the connector is to gain access to the outside world i.e.
through the product to provide power and signals etc, then perhaps fixed
through hole should be used.

While the last point may have thrown a spanner into the works, it really
does come down to what the connector is supposed to do who will have access
and for what purpose. By this also don't be afraid of SMT plug connectors.


Dennis