Through-hole

Term from Electronics Manufacturing industry explained for recruiters

Through-hole is a traditional method of assembling electronic components onto circuit boards. Think of it like putting pegs through holes in a pegboard - electronic parts have metal pins that go through pre-drilled holes in the board and are soldered on the other side. While newer methods like surface mount technology exist, through-hole assembly is still widely used for components that need extra physical strength or stability, like large connectors or parts in devices that experience a lot of movement or vibration. It's a fundamental skill in electronics manufacturing, especially for industrial and high-reliability products.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised Through-hole and THT assembly line producing industrial control panels

Trained new operators in Through-hole soldering techniques and quality inspection

Achieved 99.9% quality rate in Through-hole Technology production processes

Typical job title: "Through-hole Assembly Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Electronics Assembler PCB Technician Through-hole Soldering Specialist Electronics Manufacturing Technician PCB Assembly Operator Electronic Assembly Technician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you set up a new through-hole assembly line for maximum efficiency?

Expected Answer: Should discuss workflow organization, equipment placement, quality control points, and operator training requirements. Should mention considerations for different board sizes and component types.

Q: What measures would you implement to reduce defects in through-hole assembly?

Expected Answer: Should explain quality control procedures, preventive maintenance, operator training programs, and proper handling of components and boards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the common quality issues in through-hole assembly and how do you prevent them?

Expected Answer: Should identify issues like cold joints, insufficient solder, burnt boards, and explain prevention methods including proper temperature control and technique.

Q: How do you ensure proper handling of static-sensitive components?

Expected Answer: Should describe ESD protection measures, proper grounding procedures, and handling requirements for sensitive electronic components.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with soldering equipment?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper handling of hot tools, ventilation requirements, protective equipment, and basic fire safety measures.

Q: How do you identify a good solder joint versus a bad one?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic visual inspection criteria like shine, shape, and coverage, and explain common defects to look for.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic soldering techniques
  • Component identification
  • Basic quality inspection
  • Safety procedures

Mid (1-3 years)

  • Advanced soldering techniques
  • Quality control procedures
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Production efficiency

Senior (3+ years)

  • Process optimization
  • Team supervision
  • Training and mentoring
  • Quality system management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on soldering experience
  • Lack of knowledge about basic safety procedures
  • No understanding of quality inspection criteria
  • Unable to identify basic electronic components
  • No experience with ESD (static electricity) protection