Cover story
Don’t gamble with your supply chain – buy only from authorised sources
I
n today’s semiconductor market, securing the right component at the right time can be challenging.
Supply shortages, product discontinuations, long lead times and rapidly changing technology can all put pressure on procurement teams to fi nd alternative sources. When a critical semiconductor becomes difficult to source, however, there is one question that should never be overlooked: Where does the component come from? The temptation to source through
brokers or other non-authorised channels can be strong, particularly when components are obsolete, in short supply or urgently required. But a lower price or faster delivery can come at a much higher cost if the product is counterfeit, substandard, untraceable or unsupported. For high-reliability applications, the message is simple: don’t gamble with your supply chain. Buy only from authorised sources.
Figure 1: Don’t gamble with your supply chain, buy only from authorised suppliers
The hidden risks of the grey market The semiconductor supply chain includes authorised distributors and suppliers, as well as independent brokers, dealers and other non- authorised channels. These non- authorised channels, often referred to as the grey market, can source products from a wide variety of locations. Without a direct authorised
relationship with the original component manufacturer (OCM), there is no certainty around product provenance, handling, storage, traceability and authenticity. This can expose customers to a range of risks, including the absence of manufacturer-backed warranties and technical support, uncertain supply chains, inadequate storage conditions and increased exposure to substandard, recycled, reclaimed or counterfeit devices. A semiconductor may look genuine, pass a basic visual inspection and even pass some forms of third-
party testing, yet still fail to meet the original manufacturer’s specifications. Re-marked, recycled, reclaimed or otherwise compromised devices can potentially make their way into the supply chain. The consequences can extend far beyond the cost of the component itself: production delays, scrap and rework, equipment failure, field returns, reputational damage and, in safety-critical applications, potentially much more serious outcomes.
Counterfeits are becoming increasingly sophisticated Counterfeit semiconductors are not simply products with an incorrect logo or obviously fake packaging. Modern counterfeiting techniques can be considerably more sophisticated. Devices can be re-marked to appear as higher-specifi cation or different components. Recycled components can be presented as new. Parts that do not meet the original manufacturer’s requirements can potentially be recovered, remarked and resold. This is why relying solely on additional testing after purchase is not a substitute for sourcing through an authorised channel. Testing can identify certain problems, but it cannot recreate the complete assurance provided by an authorised supply chain and direct manufacturer provenance.
Authorisation provides a stronger foundation An authorised supplier has a formal relationship with the original component manufacturer and can provide greater assurance around the source, authenticity and traceability of the product. For customers, this can mean:
• Guaranteed authenticity and reliability
06 September 2026
www.electronicsworld.co.uk
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