Telltale signs of counterfeit electronic components
In 2017 and 2018, the Semiconductor Industry Association reported an increase in semiconductor sales worldwide, with its first highest-ever quarterly sales reaching $117 billion.
With such an uptick in overall component sales, comes the increased risk of receiving a counterfeit electronic component. Integrated Circuits are just one of the most counterfeited types of electronic components. Other commonly counterfeited products include; transistors, capacitors, resistors, memory, micro-controllers and processors, filters, converters and relays.
As expected, a hike in demand for electronics components in multiple industries leads to an increase in counterfeit electronic components parts in the market. In some cases, the counterfeit components excellently mirror originals, making it difficult to detect during initial testing. But down the line, these components fail, leading to severe dangers besides financial loss.
To avoid falling a victim of
counterfeit electronic components, you should develop and implement anti-counterfeiting measures to detect any counterfeit components during the procurement process.
OEMs in sectors such as the Department of Defense and aerospace are adopting best practices to avoid procuring counterfeit military and aerospace electronic components. Similarly, you should ensure that your team is well trained on how to detect counterfeit electronic components.
4 Techniques to Detect Counterfeit Electronic Components
This article discusses different ways you can spot counterfeit electronic products and protect your supply chain.
1. Thorough Examination of the Labeling and Packaging
In most cases, fake products manufacturers find it hard to replicate the original labeling and package. Make it a habit to inspect the labeling and packaging every time you receive new components. To be sure, compare the features of the newly acquired components with other parts you have from the original manufacturer. Check the following during the inspection:
Misspellings and wrong information on the labels
Compare the part codes with those of the OEM and confirm that they match
Confirm that the date codes on the components match with those on the label
Ensure that the date codes on the labels make sense; they shouldn’t be too far in the past or the future
The component packaging includes all the necessary parts
The logo on the packaging matches that of the OEM
Font consistency with that of the OEM
Indicated country of origin should match the country code shown in the component
2. Component Examination
The component examination is one of the most specific methods of detecting counterfeit electronic components. The inspection involves the use of a regular X-ray to view the internal parts of the product. It helps you identify anomalies such as:
Inconsistent thickness and rough edges- as a way of eliminating the original code, the counterfeit electronic components manufacturers try to sand parts, which result in thinner parts and rough edges.
Lack of uniformity on the indenting- to make part replacement easy, OEMs leave clear indents on the component. In counterfeit electronic components, you may note that the indents look shallow and rough.
Inconsistency in pins distance-the distance between the pins may be tampered with in fake components. You may also note that the pins have oxidation or look a little too shiny.
3. Electrical Testing
Legitimate electronic components manufacturers always record the components’ tolerance. If you’re unsure of the authenticity of the product, you should conduct electrical testing on the component. If the results differ from the industry specs, then you’re dealing with counterfeit electronic components.
4. Scanning Acoustic Microscope
Some manufacturers of counterfeit electronic components use resurfacing to conceal the original OEM markings on the product. A scanning acoustic microscope test identifies laser engraving beneath that of the blacktopping. The testing method is preferable in that it’s nondestructive, hence okay to use the component if it passes the test. A destructive heated chemical test is also an effective, but destructive test to determine part marking authenticity. Broadline Components can perform these tests both in house, or outsourced to a third party if that is preferred.
Why You Should Work With Broadline Components
With over 50 years of experience, Broadline Components takes every precaution to protect our customers from counterfeit electronic components. We are strict on following manufacturing rules and regulations and follow thorough quality inspection on all incoming electronic components.
When ordering electronic components, rest assured that Broadline Components has the qualifications, certifications, and commitment to spot counterfeit products and guarantees quality. We guarantee you a 1-day turnaround to ensure continuity of your production. To learn more about our products, including military electronic components and computer electronic components, feel free to contact us today.