For more than 30 years, the complete provider W+P PRODUCTS has been at home in the world of electromechanical components. It manufactures reliable connector solutions for all application areas around the printed circuit board – W+P's strength lies in the production of tailor-made solutions. Even during ongoing projects, changes can be implemented at short notice or additional variants can be created. Manufacturing takes place at the highest level in Germany and China (ISO 9001 / ISO 14001 / IATF 16949).

To determine the exact requirements for the component, a needs analysis is conducted at the beginning of the project. By asking specific questions, one approaches the characteristics of the required connector.

Where will the part be used? Is the connector used in industry, or are higher demands placed on the parts, such as in the automotive sector, medical technology, or food industry?

What technical requirements are there? Standard, special, or custom solution – which connector meets the requirements? To answer this question, the following selection criteria are used:

• Reliability: Good quality ensures as stable and continuous functionality as possible in the application.
• Lifespan: Even under the influence of operating time and temperature, mechanical stress, as well as media and environmental influences, a long service life and availability are guaranteed.
• Availability and Processability: For custom solutions, processing is often done in-house. If an EMS service provider is involved in the process, they are often also tasked with procuring additional necessary materials.

What are the costs? A very important factor that influences the selection of a connector. A good connector system does not necessarily have to be expensive.

How should it be processed (processing technology)? Depending on the processing location and mechanical stress, one can choose between SMT, THT, and THR.

• SMT (Surface Mount Technology): SMT is a standard process for most EMS service providers. The assembly is done automatically, and precise soldering is achieved through the solder mask. There is thermal stress on the contact surface and the insulating body, which must be considered separately. The SMT process allows for easier PCB assembly, thus utilizing the space below the component.
• THT (Through Hole Technology): THT is a soldering technique via the solder wave or by hand. It offers good stability under vibration but also adds an additional step compared to the commonly used SMT. Precise soldering is not possible in the THT soldering process.
• THR (Through Hole Reflow, Pin in Paste): THR soldering is a combination of the proven SMT and THT methods and is gaining more importance due to better mechanical load capacity. The components contact through the PCB and are pressed into the solder paste in the hole. Automatic assembly is possible with THR, and it can also be soldered together with SMT components. The stability on the board is similar to that of THT.

Where should it be processed? Can the further processing and installation of the connectors be done in-house, or will an EMS service provider be used? Depending on this, the processing technology is also influenced.

What quantity is planned? This affects pricing and possibly the production process at the connector manufacturer. Minimum order quantities and packaging units must also be considered

What is the optimal packaging for the product? Depending on the selected processing technology, a different type of packaging is suitable. The production quantity, the assembly method at the processor, and their assembly options also influence the decision.

Options include bulk and blister packaging for robust components. More sensitive components are delivered in tape & reel packaging, as stick magazines, or trays – these protective covers are also particularly well-suited for automated assembly. If necessary, the components are additionally equipped with suction caps (Pick & Place-Pads).

Taking this analysis and requirements into account, W+P collaboratively develops technically and economically optimal connector concepts with its customers. These individual special solutions are complemented by a wide portfolio of standard and cataloge products – ranging from the economy version to precision connectors. Innovation and many years of experience characterize the manufacturer's work.