How to avoid and recover from Counterfeit Semiconductors

Counterfeit semiconductors are becoming an increasing concern for engineers, buyers and procurement specialists. Strict procurement, quality control and traceability measures must be put in place to ensure the authenticity of a device.

In times when demand is high and lead times have been pushed out, buyers need to source products as quickly as possible and purchasing from unfamiliar sources can be tempting for buyers if lead times are much more favourable.

This article outlines the risks of buying counterfeit semiconductors and how to mitigate buying counterfeit devices.

It’s important to partner with an authorised distributor that can offer traceability through documentation such as a certificate of conformance and various other documents provided by OEMs to prove the authenticity of a semiconductor or power electronic component.

What is a counterfeit semiconductor?

• Non-functional or scrap product which is remarked as good and resold
• Functional sub-standard product purchased by the counterfeiter remarked and resold as full grade product at an increased price
• Recycled and recovered product sold as new
• A counterfeit device copy that has no association with the manufacturer it is labelled to be from

What are the risks associated with counterfeit semiconductors?

• Increased service /system failures and reduced reliability
• Reduced production yields and increase reworks
• Project delays and damaged reputation
• Heightened risks and financial liability

How to avoid buying counterfeit semiconductors?

• Ensure distributors are ‘authorised distributors’ and even check with the manufacturers directly
• Check the original part number and if in doubt, ask for a photo of the device and for proof of the date code
• Check if the part has been discontinued
• Request a certificate of conformity from the distributor
• Check if the distributor provides a warranty for the device

What to do if you suspect you have purchased a counterfeit semiconductor?

• Check the packaging
• Inspect the component
• Look for component markings
• Perform electrical testing if you can
• Verify the component with the manufacturer or a trusted distributor

How to recover from buying counterfeit semiconductors

• Choose trusted suppliers – be sure to use suppliers that have a good reputation for selling genuine semiconductor components and can offer alternatives to obsolete devices. Establish long-lasting relationships with trusted suppliers and use them on a regular basis.
• Contact a reliable distributor – ask a trusted distributor to quote the devices you need and ask for a manufacturer’s certificate of compliance.
• Educate employees – all employees in procurement should be aware of the dangers of counterfeit components and the importance of sourcing from authorised sources. Regular training on how to identify counterfeit components should be explored and diligence carried out when required.
• Speak to an expert – if you have any concerns about the authenticity of your semiconductors or other power electronic components, then get in touch with one of the UK’s leading power electronic component distributors for expert help and advice on how to recover from a counterfeit semiconductors experience.

GD Rectifiers is an authorised distributor for some of the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturers, including:IXYS, IXYS UK Westcode, Semikron, EDI and Dynex. At GD Rectifiers, we hold semiconductor components in stock and a’re a licensed distributor. We can provide date codes on our extensive range of power semiconductor components to provide customers with reassurance before they purchase..

The comprehensive range of semiconductors include diodes, high voltage diodes, MOSFETs, IGBTs, IGBT modules, thyristors, inverter modules, gate turn-off thyristors, thyristor module accessories, thyristor diode modules, rectifier bridges, TVS diodes, optically isolated AC power switches, gate drivers, power relays, Switchable current regulators, SiC schottky diodes and SiC power modules.

For further information on GD Rectifiers’ product range or to discuss your enquiry, please call us on: 01444 243 452 or email: enquiries@gdrectifiers.co.uk.