Abstract:
A method of improving the life expectancy of surface mount components (10) in electronic assemblies wherein a distance between the printed circuit board and the surface mount component is held to a predetermined distance defined as the stand-off height (16). The relationship between the stand-off height (16) and the life expectancy of the component is directly proportional. A larger stand-off height (16) translates into a longer life expectancy. The stand-off height (16) is limited only by manufacturing constraints, such as process limitations and cost concerns. The stand-off height (16) is set to a predetermined dimension by way of a spacer (28) positioned between the surface mount component (10) and the printed circuit board (12).