CE-CIRC-3000 - Fundamentals of Surface Mount Technology
Course Description
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) is foundational to high-reliability electronics manufacturing, impacting quality, cost, and time-to-market. This training solution is built for companies seeking to upskill employees in real-world SMT applications. In this asynchronous online course, learners gain the technical vocabulary, process fluency, and knowledge of troubleshooting required to support and optimize SMT operations.
Participants explore every major step in the SMT assembly process, from stencil printing and solder paste selection to reflow soldering, inspection, and defect analysis. The course connects theory to practice, helping learners understand how they will apply new skills on the line. Designed with workforce development in mind, this course improves cross-functional collaboration between engineering, quality, and production roles while reducing training time and enhancing operational consistency.
Course Outcomes
- Understand SMT Fundamentals
- Build fluency in SMT processes to support production efficiency and communication across departments.
- Interpret PCB Fabrication Processes
- Analyze board complexity and learn how design choices influence process setup and downstream performance.
- Classify Component Technologies
- Identify and differentiate surface mount components used in modern assemblies, including BGA and micro-packages.
- Implement Effective Printing Processes
- Explain best practices in stencil design and solder paste application to reduce printing defects and improve yield.
- Optimize SMT Line Performance
- Calculate throughput and placement rates, interpret reflow profiles, and identify process adjustments in real time.
- Identify Process Defects and Recommend Repairs
- Learn rework and repair strategies for common SMT issues using standard tools and techniques.
- Apply Inspection and Reliability Standards
- Evaluate cleaning processes, visual inspection criteria, and reliability testing to maintain quality.
Learning Experience
This course is designed for electronics manufacturing professionals, including engineers, technicians, and team leads responsible for SMT operations. It is well-suited for companies looking to train new hires, cross-train team members, or close skills gaps across departments. Participants will complete self-paced digital modules. No prior SMT experience is required, though basic familiarity with electronics is beneficial. This format is ideal for scalable, job-embedded learning. NOTE: This course can be modified to include hands-on lab activities that allow learners to apply course outcomes to real-world products and equipment.
Course Outline
Learner Outcomes