Hi Larry,
A plated-through hole (PTH) has a connector lead in it and is typically
specified with a finished hole diameter to accept a lead diameter; a plated-
through via (PTV) is typically much smaller in diameter and the hole should be
specified as the drilled hole diameter (much more impotant for reliability
assurance, and some small diameter PTVs can actually be plated closed). Other
than that not much difference, however PTVs fail more often by interfacial
separation (post separation) than due PTVs, which fail more often by barral
fracture.

Werner Engelmaier
Engelmaier Associates, L.C.
Electronic Packaging, Interconnection and Reliability Consulting
7 Jasmine Run
Ormond Beach, FL  32174  USA
Phone: 904-437-8747, Fax: 904-437-8737
E-mail: [log in to unmask]

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