What is Castellated Hole
Castellated holes, also known as plated half holes or castellations, are holes that are cut along the edges of the board, forming a half-circular shape. The castellated holes create a reliable electrical connection between different layers of the PCB or facilitate connections between separate PCBs.
To achieve this, castellated holes are plated with a conductive material, such as gold or copper layers. This plating process ensures that the hole is electrically conductive, allowing for the transfer of signals or power between the various layers or boards.
Unlike regular vias and plated-through holes (PTH), which are used for internal connections within a single PCB, castellated holes are specifically designed for interconnecting separate PCBs or providing a more robust connection for SMT components.
The unique half-circular shape of castellated holes allows for easy alignment and soldering of the PCBs or components. The exposed metal on the edge of the hole provides a larger surface area for soldering, ensuring a strong and reliable connection.
Castellated holes are commonly used in modular designs where multiple PCBs need to be interconnected. They provide a convenient and efficient way to connect different modules or boards, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly. In addition to their use in modular designs, castellated holes are also suitable for SMT components. SMT components are mounted directly onto the surface of the PCB, and castellated holes can be used to create a secure and reliable connection between the SMT components and the PCB, ensuring proper electrical contact.
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