8 Step Guide To Buying Electronic Components With Confidence and Avoiding Counterfeits
1. Procurement Supplier Selection
Procurement policies and the selection of suppliers create an opportunity to significantly reduce the risk of counterfeit parts from entering the supply chain. Different sources of supply have different levels of risk, here are some considerations..
- Manufacturer, Franchised Distributor OR Agent
- Independent Distributors
- Small Unlicensed Distributors
2. Receiving, Inspecting & Examining Goods
Visual inspections are recommended for any organization dealing with electronic components and are the front line of counterfeit screening. Inspection starts with the delivery paperwork then the outer packaging/labelling and continues down to the component level. You should carefully look at these three:
- Paperwork considerations
- Packaging considerations
- Component Considerations
3. Quality Specification
When choosing your electronic components supplier it is
essential they have the correct quality procedures in place.
Not only do they provide quality assurance when purchasing, but they can also help mitigate the risk of counterfeit electronic components entering supply chains.
It is recommended that electronic component suppliers should have the necessary processes in place to be able to mitigate the risk of receiving, storing and shipping potential counterfeit devices. Some of their quality processes may include the following quality certifications…
- ISO 9001:2008
- AS5553
- IDEA-STD-1010B
4. Traceability Requirements
Suppliers must maintain accurate records regarding the purchase of material that can be easily accessed when required by customers. It is vital your supplier is open and honest, divulging their origin. By providing traceability according to quality standards.
Procedures (such as ISO 9001:2008 certification) customers can follow the origin of the electronic component, ensuring the highest level of accountability and control.