SourceToday says the current electronics component shortage combined with the urge to make new parts is compounding a counterfeit problem that “isn’t going away anytime soon”.
It describes counterfeit components as the “bane of any electronic buyer’s very existence” and the companies behind these fakes as “virtually unstoppable”. The risk of using counterfeits is significant, “In some cases, counterfeit electronic components can be dangerous. For example, if a fake part fails, the user can be injured. Or, that part might cause a piece of equipment to malfunction, short-circuit, or even cause a fire.”
However, SourceToday suggests there are at least four ways to detect fakes:
- Visually examine all packaging, labels, and parts.
- Use X-ray inspections to verify components authenticity.
- Look for signs of resurfacing.
- Put the components through some electrical testing.
Of course, these tests are just the tip of the iceberg. Astute Electronics is run in accordance with quality processes including AS6081 that mitigates the risks of purchasing and supplying fraudulent/counterfeit electronic parts. For complete peace of mind, Astute offers the ACAP (Astute Counterfeit Avoidance Programme) whereby parts obtained through non-traceable routes are subjected to rigorous destructive and non-destructive testing. More information on counterfeit mitigation
