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Category: Electronic Components

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Electronic Components

Electronica 2024: The Highlight Event of the Electronics Industry

Electronica Cyclops Electronics

Electronica 2024 is approaching, marking the latest edition of the world’s leading electronics trade fair since 1964. This anticipated event will take place at Messe München in Munich, Germany, from November 12th to 15th, 2024.

Electronica is held every two years and is known for showcasing the full range of the electronics industry, including components, systems, applications, and solutions. Next year’s event is already generating excitement in the industry, promising to be a significant event for professionals worldwide.

Reasons for Visting Electronica 2024

In the fast-changing world of electronics, it is vital to keep up with the newest advancements. Electronica 2024 is an event that can make a difference for businesses in the electronic components industry. For purchasing teams in particular, Electronica is a key event. Here is why:

Discover the Latest Innovations

Get a first look at the latest innovations and trends in electronic components. Whether you are sourcing semiconductors, connectors, sensors, or other critical components, this event is a great chance to review new technologies. This can make your purchasing decisions more informed.

Networking Opportunities

Visiting Electronica 2024 offers more than just an insight into the latest technology. It presents an unparalleled opportunity to meet with professionals from across the industry and broaden your network, helping you find the right electronic components more efficiently.

Diversify your Supply Chain

Electronica hosts a wide array of exhibitors, representing different aspects of the electronics industry. Whether you tend to source very specific components or a variety of electronic parts, you are likely to find them there. Electronica 2024 enables you to explore diverse sourcing options all under one roof.

Stay Informed

Attending Electronica is a keyway to stay informed in the dynamic world of electronics. The event features a series of talks, roundtable discussions, and expert-led sessions, providing insights into the latest trends in electronic components. These forums cover a wide range of topics from emerging technologies to supply chain challenges.

Build Global Connections

In the global electronics industry, where the supply chain spans the globe, staying connected with players worldwide is crucial. Attending Electronica offers a unique chance to broaden your global reach, connecting with diverse industry players and exploring international sourcing opportunities.

Visit Cyclops Electronics at Electronica 2024

Electronica 2024 is a crucial event for electronic sourcing professionals. It offers a chance to discover innovations, network with industry players, and access diverse suppliers.

We look forward to meeting you at Electronica 2024, where Cyclops Electronics will be ready to connect and explore opportunities together. Our stand number will be announced early next year.

In the meanwhile, please don’t hesitate to contact us for help sourcing any electronic components. Our responsive team of sourcing experts are always ready to help.

Categories
Electronic Components

Reflecting on the 2023 Trends in the Electronic Components Industry

Insights and Perspectives from Cyclops Electronics

As the year draws to a close, it is an ideal time to take a moment and reflect on the evolving landscape and the trends that have shaped the electronic components sourcing industry in 2023.

Cyclops Electronics, with its finger always on the pulse of the industry, has observed several key developments that have had significant impacts on both suppliers and consumers.

Let’s dive into these trends and consider their implications for the future.

1. The Impact of Inflation

Inflation has emerged as a formidable challenge this year. With 86% of manufacturers concerned about its effects and 90% facing rising material costs, the industry is at a pivotal point. This scenario has led to a necessary focus on process optimisation and digitalisation to manage costs. It is a reminder of the importance of agility and efficiency in our operations.

2. Adapting to Component Shortages and Geopolitical Shifts

The ongoing diversification away from East Asia, driven by the pandemic and policy shifts, has significant implications. The reduction in North American manufacturing orders from East Asia and the impact on the semiconductor industry are profound. This situation underscores the need for robust planning and the adoption of strategies to ensure material visibility and minimise obsolescence.

3. Focus on Supply Chain Resilience

The aftermath of global disruptions, notably the pandemic and geopolitical tensions, has underscored the importance of supply chain resilience. In 2023, we saw companies placing a greater emphasis on diversifying their supply sources. This not only mitigated risk but also improved supply chain transparency. Businesses are now more inclined to partner with suppliers that can guarantee consistent delivery and demonstrate robust contingency plans.

4. Embracing High-Mix Low-Volume (HMLV) Manufacturing

HMLV manufacturing refers to the production of a wide variety of items in relatively small quantities. This approach contrasts with traditional mass production methods, where the focus is on manufacturing a limited range of products in large volumes.

The shift towards high-mix, low-volume production is not just a trend but a strategic response to the current economic climate. This approach requires an adaptable mindset and a strong emphasis on frequent New Product Introductions (NPIs). It highlights the growing importance of digital solutions in maintaining production flexibility.

5. The Reshoring Movement

Reshoring is becoming an increasingly attractive option for many manufacturers, driven by rising costs and logistical challenges. This trend is reshaping the supply chain, emphasizing the value of local manufacturing for quality control, faster delivery, and improved communication. It is an opportunity for domestic manufacturers to step up and meet these new demands.

6. Navigating Supply and Demand Uncertainties

The mixed signals about supply chain normalisation, especially in the semiconductor sector, are a stark reminder of the need for proactive and strategic sourcing. The just-in-time model’s vulnerabilities have been exposed, prompting a revaluation of inventory and supply chain strategies.

In this context, unpredictability in electronic component availability issues is a key challenge. Cyclops Electronics, as an independent electronic component distributor, steps in as a reliable solution during these times. We specialise in sourcing hard-to-find electronic components, providing a crucial buffer against the unpredictable nature of shortages. Our expertise and extensive network make us a dependable partner for businesses navigating the complex and often uncertain terrain of supply and demand in the current electronic components market.

7. The Rise of Just-in-Case Supply Chain Management

The shift towards a just-in-case model reflects a strategic response to uncertainties. It’s about balancing risk and efficiency, ensuring the availability of essential components, and diversifying supplier networks. This approach is indicative of a more cautious and prepared industry stance.

At Cyclops Electronics, we are committed to strengthening robust, sustainable and flexible supply chains throughout our business operations across the world. We work with trusted global suppliers and partners to source electronic components and identify any factors that might impact the supply chain. Our scheduled ordering service reduces the impact of price hikes and delays on our customers.

8. Increased Focus on Quality and Reliability

This year, there was a noticeable shift towards prioritising quality and reliability over cost. The long-term value of high-quality components has become a key consideration for buyers, reflecting a move towards sustainable, long-term investments in sourcing strategies. This trend highlights the importance of working with electronic component suppliers that implement a thorough quality control system.

Concluding Thoughts

The trends of 2023 have set a new trajectory for the electronic components sourcing industry. As we move into 2024, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and what new developments emerge. At Cyclops Electronics, we remain committed to staying at the forefront of these changes, ensuring that our customers are well-equipped to navigate the dynamic landscape of electronic components sourcing.

Are you currently struggling with any electronic components in particular? Contact us to discuss your needs and let us help you navigate the complexities of electronic components sourcing with ease.

Categories
Electronic Components

A guide to finding alternative electronic components

Contents:

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing industry, the availability of electronic components can make or break a project. However, there are times when the exact component you need is unavailable, obsolete, has too long a lead time or too expensive for your budget.

This can be a disrupting but common occurrence simply due to the life cycle of products when measured against their component parts, particularly if the application has a long qualification, production or in-service live. This was highlighted in a paper by the University of Maryland:

“Consequently, many of the electronic parts that compose a product have a life cycle that is significantly shorter than the life cycle of the product. The part becomes obsolete when it is no longer manufactured, either because demand has dropped to low enough levels that it is not practical for manufacturers to continue to make it, or because the materials or technologies necessary to produce it are no longer available.”

That is where finding alternative electronic components becomes crucial. In this guide, we will understand exactly what we are looking for and explore how to successfully locate suitable alternatives for your projects.

What is an alternative electronic component?

An alternative electronic component is one that works in an equivalent manner to the original component – offering the same level of performance and quality, while at the same time often either representing better value or being easier to source.

There are also a variety of instances in which you may need to identify an alternative or equivalent electronic component for your project:

  • The re-use of an old design
  • A new design with a high-demand component
  • A component that uses a material in shortage
  • A component that has extended lead times
  • A component that had a limited production run
  • A component that is no longer in production
  • A component or material that is banned in your country

Whatever the reason you need to find an alternative component, it is important to source the right replacement part for the job, at a cost that suits your production budget.

Do I need to find an alternative or an equivalent electronic component?

In an ideal world when your out-of-production component needs replacing, you would find a ‘drop-in’ replacement – which is one with closely matching electronic ratings. However, this often isn’t available and so you need to source an alternative or equivalent part – the distinction between these is minimal, but important to understand:

An equivalent component either has identical or closely matched specifications as your unavailable component. It could be from the same manufacturer/brand, be an upgrade of the previous version or simply have added/altered features.

An alternative component is a replacement part that may have very different specifications or features to the original component but can still be utilised to perform the required function of the product.

How do I find alternative electronic components?

Most of the inspections undertaken within Cyclops Electronics facilities – or in vetted test houses we work with – are undertaken with highly specialised equipment.  

Here are some relatively common electronics counterfeit giveaways to look out for when you are inspecting electronic components: 

Understand component specifications

Before you start searching for alternatives, it is essential to thoroughly understand the specifications of the component you are trying to replace. This includes parameters like voltage ratings, current ratings, package type, and pin configurations. Knowing these details will help you narrow down your search for compatible alternatives.

Use parametric searches

Parametric search tools on electronic component distributor websites allow you to filter components based on specific parameters. This can be incredibly useful when looking for alternatives with similar specifications. You can narrow down your search by selecting parameters such as voltage range, package type, and more.

Consult manufacturer resources

Sometimes, component manufacturers themselves provide lists of alternative components for their products. These resources can be found on the manufacturer’s website and are particularly useful when searching for replacements for obsolete components.

Explore obsolete component services

If you are dealing with obsolete and hard-to-find components, consider specialised services that focus on sourcing discontinued parts. Cyclops Electronics can source obsolete components through our electronic component finder’s extensive inventory of over 1 billion components and access to a trusted global supply network.

Evaluate functional equivalents

While it is essential to match component specifications, also consider functional equivalents. These components may have slightly different specifications but can still perform the required function in your circuit. Make sure to assess the impact of any variations on your overall design.

Collaborate with suppliers

Don’t hesitate to seek advice and collaborate with suppliers who could yield valuable insights and recommendations – we are on hand to support with alternative electronic component sourcing advice if you contact our team.

The availability of obsolete and hard to find electronic components

While we hope that you are able to find an alternative component for your project, sometimes the process can prove more difficult due to the type of component involved.

Some parts, like passive components, are commonly available and easy to replace or substitute for an equivalent component. However, other parts like more complex integrated circuits, often don’t have readily available alternatives.

In these cases, an independent electronic component distributor like Cyclops Electronics can be an extremely helpful resource. Our expertise lies in finding and sourcing virtually any electronic part, helping our customers keep their supply chain moving even in the most challenging circumstances.

For an immediate stock check, you can use Cyclops Electronics’ fast component search, or contact our expert team directly to discuss your requirements.

Using an electronic component equivalent finder

Sometimes the best, and quickest way, to check if your alternate components are available is to use an electronic component equivalent finder that can quickly check stock from manufacturers’ inventory around the globe.

A distributor like us at Cyclops Electronics will have up-to-date stocklists of a range of electrical components from those most commonly used, to ones which lines are no longer in production. You can use the search bar below to discover what equivalent parts are available for your assembly.

Categories
Electronic Components

Counterfeit electronic component detection

two electronic components side by side
A counterfeit electronic component (left) alongside a manufacturer’s genuine part. The difference in fonts, printing and text size is a sign of counterfeit. Counterfeit part on left shows signs of Sanding and reprinting. Pin 1 indicator and lead layout are inconsistent with Datasheet.

Contents:

When you work in the electronic components industry, it is inevitable at some point you will come face-to-face with counterfeit electronic components. It is a veritable stone in the shoe of the electronic component industry, worth hundreds of billions of dollars.  

With over 30 years of experience in the electronics industry, specialising in hard to find and obsolete components, at Cyclops Electronics we have a lot of knowledge when it comes to identifying and avoiding counterfeit electronic components. Our team of highly qualified inspectors have accumulated almost a century of experience between them, and we take pride in how vigilantly we deal with this supply chain havoc-wreaker. 

In this post we would like to share some of our know-how on how to detect counterfeit electronics and our testing and processes for electronic components counterfeit mitigation. It will arm you with the information you need to make informed, wise decisions about which brokers to work with and who works to the highest standards. 

What are counterfeit electronic components?

To make sure we are all on the same page, it is probably best that we define what a counterfeit electronic component is.

Counterfeit components are unauthorised copies of an electronic component in which the material characteristics and quality of performance have been deliberately altered.There is a chance that the counterfeit components would work with the same function as their original counterpart. 

The issue arises when they do not have the longevity, or integrity, of the original. Buyers can end up spending a fortune on parts that will not work or will damage their circuitry, and there will be no one to hold to account. This is why it is so vital to have trusted brokers in your supply chain, so the risk to you is minimised.  

There are countries that are more infamous for the amount of counterfeit electronics produced there, but they can come from anywhere. Professionals at every stage of the supply chain have to be vigilant to mitigate the risk of counterfeit components to their customers.  

As long as there has been chip shortages, there has been a counterfeit industry, with new prolific methods accompanying each decade. In the 90s, among other things, it was counterfeit SRAM during the shortage. Then the 2000s began with counterfeit tantalum capacitors during the component’s allocation period.  

What do counterfeit electronic parts look like?

Most of the inspections undertaken within Cyclops Electronics facilities – or in vetted test houses we work with – are undertaken with highly specialised equipment.  

Here are some relatively common electronics counterfeit giveaways to look out for when you are inspecting electronic components: 

Evidence of packaging tampering

If you receive your components and the packaging looks damaged, this is the first sign to suspect they are counterfeit electronics. The packaging may look damaged beyond reasonable transportation wear and tear, or the tape may look tampered with.  

Key indicators of this include: 

  • Water damage 
  • Puncture marks 
  • Packaging does not match previous deliveries 

If this is the case, there is a chance that the electronic components have been tampered with or switched. It is worth notifying the vendor and the courier to make them aware of this issue, whether counterfeit is detected or not. 

An industry example of goods that have been repackaged

Verify all included information

A white box with 'Vishay General Semiconductor written across it, however 'general' has been misspelled with an 'I' instead of an 'L'
An industry example of counterfeit packaging with spelling errors

All electronic components should come with packaging documentation and product datasheets are available online.  

Check the following information: 

  • Date code 
  • Part number 
  • Sealing date 
  • All other displayed information 
  • Packing date was after the date of manufacture.  
  • Spelling mistakes. Just like with spam emails, this is sometimes the easiest way to detect a counterfeit electronic component. 

The importance of the ‘golden sample’ 

In electronic component counterfeit detection, the ‘golden sample’ is an electronic component, reel or tray that has come directly from the manufacturer or from a franchised distributor. It is good practice to compare all, or at least any suspect incoming goods, to a golden sample. If there are discrepancies, it is a good indicator of potential counterfeit. 

Something unique and specialist that Cyclops can offer above its competitors is our cross-database checks. Thanks to our years of experience in the industry we have built a huge database of electronic component images. We can compare incoming goods to these industry standards where other providers don’t have the same resource.

Count and consistency

Usually when you buy electronic components they will be in trays, reels or cut tap. You may even get bags of components delivered to you. So, count them. There will often be partial factory quantity, so make sure you have the correct count ordered. 

More than just the outer packaging of the components, the quality of the inner packaging can be indicative too. If a reel is discoloured or warped, it can indicate damage or tampering, and the same applies to the orientation of parts on a tray or reel. Parts may have been removed and replaced if they are not all oriented in the same direction.  

Electronic Counterfeit Detection Technology

A lot of the ways to detect counterfeit electronic components mentioned above are included under the banner of visual inspection. It is often the first line of defence when avoiding counterfeit electronic parts. There are more advanced, accurate tests that often need to be used to minimise the risk of counterfeit components.  

Decapsulation and delidding

Decapsulation involves the corrosion of the top layer of a component to check the internal die wafer and wafer bonds. Cyclops uses an acid-free DPA System, instead of the traditional wet chemical process. This method is much cleaner than the wet chemical alternative, and means our staff are not at risk of inhaling any harmful chemicals. 

Decapping is commonly used for devices with plastic packaging. Once the package cavity is exposed the internal die wafer can be checked. It should match the golden sample in layout and structure. It is a form of destructive testing – once this test is performed, the part cannot be used.  

X-ray testing and XRF

X-ray testing shows defects through the electronic component without having to damage the die wafer inside. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing takes this a step further and can tell you the material composition of the component.  

In XRF an x-ray beam is directed at the component’s surface, then the atoms in the component produce a fluorescent x-ray beam that is processed by a detector. The differences between the energy of the original and x-ray beam correspond to different elements, which shows the elements used in manufacturing. Usually counterfeit components will have a slightly different material composition to parts directly from the manufacturer. 

Resurfacing, acetone and scrape testing

There are other effective forms of testing for avoiding counterfeit electronic components. 

Similar to decapping, remarking and resurfacing testing use solvents to corrode the top layers of a component. This, however, isn’t trying to get all the way to the wafer inside. It instead detects if the identification information on the component has been altered or remarked. It is not a destructive test since the wafer inside is left undamaged. 

The process counterfeiters often use is called ‘blacktopping’. The original chip markings are sanded off and a polymer coating is painted over to cover up the sanding markings 

Scrape testing is a similar, manual way of removing the top layers of a component. This shows if a component has had a clear coat applied to it, which is acetone-resistant and lowers the chances of counterfeit being revealed by remarking or decapsulation testing. 

Two electronic components side by side. The two components look similar, but the component on the left looks like it has been sanded down to remove the previous information, and the text font and location is different to the component on the right
A counterfeit electronic component [left] alongside a manufacturer’s genuine part [right]. The difference in fonts, printing and text size is a sign of counterfeit.The counterfeit part on left shows signs of sanding and reprinting. Pin 1 indicator and lead layout are inconsistent with Datasheet.
Two microchip parts on their side placed next to each other. There is a clear difference in the width and shape of the two components
A counterfeit electronic component [left] alongside a manufacturer’s genuine part [right]. The difference in fonts, printing and text size is a sign of counterfeit.The counterfeit part on left shows signs of sanding and reprinting. Pin 1 indicator and lead layout are inconsistent with Datasheet.
Two electronic components showing the underneath of the parts. One has been completely covered over, while the other shows a coil of wire.
A counterfeit electronic component [left] alongside a manufacturer’s genuine part [right]. The difference in fonts, printing and text size is a sign of counterfeit.The counterfeit part on left shows signs of sanding and reprinting. Pin 1 indicator and lead layout are inconsistent with Datasheet.
The datasheet shows the discrepancies between the original and counterfeit component
Two similar-looking microchips, one of the microchips clearly shows text that has been covered up in an attempt to hide it.
Counterfeit remarked electronic components inspected using acetone testing, showing the original text underneath the polymer layer. All four of these components are remarked.
Two similar-looking electronic components. One component has been tested with acetone, showing different text which was originally hidden in an attempt to counterfeit.
Counterfeit remarked electronic components inspected using acetone testing, showing the original text underneath the polymer layer. All four of these components are remarked.
Black microchip with ST electronics logo and printed information
The genuine manufacturer's part

The process counterfeiters often use is called ‘blacktopping’. The original chip markings are sanded off and a polymer coating is painted over to cover up the sanding markings 

Scrape testing is a similar, manual way of removing the top layers of a component. This shows if a component has had a clear coat applied to it, which is acetone-resistant and lowers the chances of counterfeit being revealed by remarking or decapsulation testing. 

Electrical testing/Curve trace testing

A relatively simple method is to test the component. Curve trace machines can test current, voltages, diode resistivity and silicon connectivity. This will detect any physical damage caused by heat, electrical overstress or electrostatic discharge damage.  

Choose Cyclops Electronics to avoid electronic counterfeit components

Nonfranchise distribution channels are a vital and legitimate part of any supply chain, particularly in the case of legacy products where parts may no longer be in production. The electronics industry has realised that, as counterfeiters become more and more proficient, there is not a ‘one size fits all’ measure that can be used to combat fraudulent parts entering the supply chain. 

At Cyclops Electronics, quality is at the core of everything we do. From our industry-leading component testing program to our commitment to continuous improvement, the quality of our components and service is our key tool to drive the highest customer satisfaction year after year. 

When it comes to counterfeit mitigation, component analysis is a crucial element to protect our customers’ supply chain.  

At Cyclops Electronics we continuously and thoroughly vet and monitor our supply chain. Since we also have a presence in China, we have the advantage of controlling our incoming goods from Asia in real time on a local level. A large proportion of counterfeit goods often come from China, but because of our presence there we can be much more vigilant than other brokers.  

The Cyclops counterfeit inspection process

Goods coming into the Cyclops warehouse go through a vigorous inspection process on arrival before they are even booked in. All components are photographed and undergo inspection based on the type of part, age, supply chain and specific customer requirements. Basic checks are performed, such as checking the quantity, part numbers and RoHS compliance. 

Our experienced inspectors have the training and technical expertise to ensure quality product reaches the end customer. Parts are then tracked through a barcode system, from supplier delivery note right though to customer despatch.  

Following this, if the parts are still factory sealed, we perform visual checks. If the components are not factory sealed, we are very diligent in our need for further testing. High resolution and secondary checks are undertaken, and testing continues depending on whether the part passes. 

We have very strict protocols in place for testing, and it always follows our process flow. For destructive tests like decapsulation, these are only undertaken in very specific circumstances and need to be requested by the customer. Thankfully, our combination of specialised testing facilities and our team of dedicated inspection staff mean these tests are not often required. 

At Cyclops Electronics we have several optical magnifiers that we use in-house. This includes, but is not limited to, Opticron Hand magnifiers, the vision engineering mantis and the Amscope microscope. We also perform acetone testing, black top testing, reel counters and decapsulation testing. 

Categories
Electronic Components Technology

Edible batteries

Researchers in Italy have made a rechargeable battery from edible materials like almonds and capers.

What’s the recipe?

The Milan-based researchers made the rechargeable prototype’s anode from riboflavin, a vitamin found in almonds. The cathode of the battery was made from quercetin, found in capers and is also sold as a food supplement.

The researchers, from the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, mixed activated charcoal into the electrode materials to increase electrical conductivity.

Nori seaweed was used for the separator, while a mixture of sodium hydrogen sulphate and water made up the electrolyte. Two food-grade gold foil contacts were on a cellulose-derived support, and the device was covered in beeswax.

Cooking time

Previously, research has shown the feasibility of edible circuits and sensors, but there is more research needed into power sources.

The battery operated at 0.65V, and sustained a current of 48µA for 12 minutes.

When further developed, the device could be used for medical diagnostics and treatments, and food quality monitoring. Regular batteries like Li-ion types cannot be used in edible devices because of the toxic chemicals contained in them.

Au naturale

The research team states in their report that they drew inspiration from living organisms for their battery.

In a previous study, a different team of researchers made a non-rechargeable battery from melanin and manganese oxide. While the battery operated, manganese oxide decreased and the melanin oxidised. Unfortunately manganese oxide can only be consumed in very small amounts, so the battery’s charge is pretty limited.

Aside from the melanin battery’s charge having limitations, the fact that it is not rechargeable also mitigates its effectiveness.

As edible electronics is still a relatively new field, it’s not surprising that many designs are still in their infancy. But, with the potential uses in the medical and food safety fields, one day they could be life-saving.

Food for thought

Although Cyclops Electronics doesn’t have a huge stock of edible components, we do have a massive inventory of other hard-to-find and everyday electronic components. We can stock or source almost anything you want, staying ahead of other distributors out there. Contact Cyclops Electronics today at sales@cyclops-electronics.com, or call us on +44 (0) 1904 415 415.

 

Disclaimer: this blog is purely for informational purposes, please do not eat batteries!

Categories
Electronic Components

Managing component obsolescence

Electronic component obsolescence can have a ripple effect in the industry. If a component reaches the end of its lifecycle it can impact any products made with the component, affecting the end user.

Obsolescence happening faster

Components now are becoming obsolete much faster than 50 years ago. In the 70s the complete lifecycle of an electronic component was around 30 years. By the 2010s this was closer to 10 years, a huge decrease.

While this might not be a problem for consumers, it does have a considerable impact on manufacturers. If machinery is specialised to a certain type of component, the cost to adjust or replace these machines can be high.

Especially in very specialised fields like aerospace, defence and medical, faster component obsolescence has a serious effect. The process of redesigning these circuits and testing can be hugely time-consuming.

Advancements in technology play a part in these accelerated lifecycles, but there is still a big need for legacy parts.

End-of-life

Component manufacturers usually let their customer base know if a part is becoming obsolete with a Last Time Buy notice or a Product Change Notification (PCN). These can be issued up to about a year in advance to give companies time to make alternative arrangements.

Some companies will decide to stockpile these components once they receive the notification. The alternative is reworking any products featuring the components or finding alternative components.

Of course, any of these options will be costly. A number of companies will be trying to stock the same components so the price will increase. This will increase further once the components become scarce.

Can it be managed?

·         Monitor end-of-life notifications: Even if a PCN does not directly affect you, it may affect other manufacturers in your supply chain. Keeping track of these and being aware of what others in your supply chain use might make all the difference.

·         Consider buying strategies: Depending on how and when you buy components, you may end up with shortages or obsolete excess components. If manufacturers put a supply and buying strategy in place, they can not only minimise the obsolescence impact, but can save time and warehouse space.

·         Component lifecycle management: Staying on top of the component lifecycles can be endlessly useful. If manufacturers can keep track of their components lifecycle changes, they can forecast and prepare for the potential phasing out of the part.

Excellent management

Cyclops Electronics provides a range of services for its customers, including scheduled ordering. If you lack warehouse space but want to buy a surplus of components, whether they’re facing obsolescence or you want to secure a price, Cyclops Electronics can hold these for you and deliver as and when you need them. To learn more or hear about our other services, contact us today on +44 (0) 1904 415 415, or email us at sales@cyclops-electronics.com.

Categories
Electronic Components

The Life of Gordon Moore

Gordon Moore - courtesy of OnInnovation

Gordon Moore, co-founder of Intel and creator of Moore’s
Law, has passed away at the age of 94.

The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation announced on March 24
that Moore had passed away at his home in Hawaii.

Humble beginnings

As a child, Moore was more interested in chemistry
than electronics. After completing his bachelor’s, Moore achieved a doctorate
in physical chemistry in at the California Institute of Technology in 1954.

After working at the Applied Physics Laboratory of Johns
Hopkins University in Maryland, Moore wanted more. He was given the opportunity
in 1956 to work at the recently formed Shockley Semiconductor. This company is
thought to be responsible for creating California’s Silicon Valley.

Less than a year later, Moore and a group of scientists and
engineers formed their own company, Fairchild Semiconductor. He rose through
the company to become the director of research and development. During his time
there, Fairchild developed the planar process, the base process needed to
produce an IC. Moore also greatly contributed to the development of the MOSFET
during his time at Fairchild.

Moore’s Law

One of the things Moore is renowned for is the initial
prediction of Moore’s Law. Moore
predicted all the way back in 1965 that the number of transistors fitting on a
given area would double each year. 10 years later he adjusted his hypothesis to
every two years. This prediction still rings mostly true today.

Just a few years after the initial prediction, Moore and
long-time colleague Robert Noyce decided to found a new business. Thus, Intel
Corporation was created. After initially being the executive vice president,
Moore eventually became CEO and chairman of the board.

After Intel

Moore became stepped down as CEO in 1987, and worked as the
chairman and chairman emeritus before stepping down completely in 2006. Following
his retirement and beforehand in the early 2000s, Moore established a
charitable foundation with his wife Betty. Since its founding, The Gordon and
Betty Moore Foundation has donated more than $5.1 billion to charitable causes. 

Categories
Electronic Components

Semiconductor industry and UK Government

UK government, semiconductor industry

The government has responded to a report released late last year on the UK semiconductor industry.

The report, released by the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee, details recommendations on how the UK semiconductor industry needs to improve to keep up with global development. It also emphasises the urgency to publish the UK’s long-awaited semiconductor strategy.

The Department of Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) released the response to the report in early February. It is the latest in a chain of government responses to increased calls for government support for the semiconductor industry.

The response

Some of the main points covered in the response included:

·         The UK is currently working with international allies to guarantee and safeguard the security of the UK chip supply

·         It is important to protect the UK semiconductor industry from external national security threats

·         Cooperation and communication between the industry and the government should be established and maintained

·         The UK should not try and be self-sufficient, but should focus on its strengths and form partnerships to complete the supply chain

Among other topics discussed in the response is the recent purchase of Newport Wafer Fab by Nexperia. Due to certain concerns, Nexperia has been asked by the BEIS to sell 86% or more of the fab. The DCMS declined to comment any further on the matter because of future potential judicial review proceedings.

On a final note the DCMS said it would work closely with all government departments, the BEIS and the Department for International Trade to make the publication and execution of the UK’s semiconductor strategy successful for the industry. The response did not, however, give a timeline for when to expect the long-anticipated strategy.

A quick recap

The UK semiconductor strategy has been in the works for around two years at this point. It is yet to be released. Apparently, it was due to be published in November 2022, but there is still no sign of it.

Many tech-oriented organisations, committees and unions are calling for more urgency on the part of the government. Even before the strategy was announced, people were petitioning for more funding and priority on the UK’s chip industry.

Days after the government response was published, the BEIS, who submitted the original report, was disbanded by the Prime Minister. It has been replaced with the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero

There is still much anticipation for the coming semiconductor industry strategy and the changes it may bring.

Global presence

 

Cyclops’s office is based in the UK, but we have a global network of offices and partners here for you. No matter what component you’re looking for, we can help. Contact Cyclops today on +44 (0) 1904 415 415, or email us at sales@cyclops-electronics.com. 

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Electronic Components Future

Using AI to design microchips

AI to design microchips

Artificial intelligence (AI) is on everyone’s mind right now. With the rise of ChatGPT  and other AI software expanding our potential, every industry is wondering how AI can help them. The electronics industry will not miss out.

The market

One company providing industry insights, Deloitte Global, predicted this year semiconductor companies will spend around $300 million on AI tools.

Granted, in the grand scheme of things $300 million is not a huge amount compared to the entire market, worth $660 billion. However, the return on investment is huge and can’t be ignored.

But staff should not fear, these tools are used to help, not replace, engineers. Chip design tools have been created by companies specialising in Electronic Design Automation (EDA). The tools are usually to help engineers design and simulate chips, without the need to physically manufacture them.

The price of the future?

These AI tools aren’t for everyone – a single license could be very pricey, and well above what smaller companies could afford. This would be a small price to pay for those who can afford it though, since the resulting designs could be worth billions.

It is also possible for companies to create their own AI tools in-house instead of buying from an EDA company. This, however, would need the company to have AI expertise already.

The great thing about working alongside AI is it greatly improves efficiency and size of semiconductors. AI tools can design chips under the 10nm process node to make them even smaller and more efficient.

Staff shortages

Another advantage of using AI currently is to bridge the employment and skill gap. Because of legislation like the US and EU Chips Act, there’s a need for many more highly-qualified and skilled people within the semiconductor industry. But filling those new jobs does not happen instantly, in fact it could take years to fully train people to fill those roles. In this case, using AI in the meantime makes perfect sense, giving current engineers room to breathe.

AI already has some sway in the industry. Approximately 30% of semiconductor device makers surveyed by McKinsey said they were already generating value through AI or ML. The other 70% are still only in the starting stages of implementing the technology.

A learning curve

Within the umbrella term of AI, there are technologies that are used including graph neural networks (GNNs) and reinforcement learning (RL). RL is the repetitive running of simulations and finding a positive result through trial and error. AI can run these simulations at such a high speed, and without the use of a physical version of the electronic components.

GNNs, on the other hand, are advanced in other ways. This machine learning algorithm analyses graphs made up of nodes and edges, extracting information and making predictions. Because the structure of a chip share a similar structure to these graphs, GNNs can be used to analyse and optimise chip structure.

I Robot

One thing you don’t need artificial intelligence for is knowing that Cyclops is your best choice. When you’re looking for electronic components, whether obsolete or everyday, call Cyclops for the best prices and delivery time for your components. Get in touch today at sales@cyclops-electronics.com, or call us on +44 (0) 1904 415 415.

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Component Shortage Electronic Components Supply Chain

Chinese New Year shipping delays

The earlier-than-usual Lunar New Year celebrations may cause more disruption than normal, according to shipping experts.

Lunar New Year took place between January 22nd and February 5th 2023. The festival is well-known for causing shipping delays and supply chain disruption. The effect this year, however, may be exacerbated.

Not only have factories been affected since early January, but there has also been several Covid outbreaks causing factory lockdowns.

Planning ahead

Normally staff begin taking leave a couple of weeks before so they can travel home. This means even late December saw a chaotic rush of exports and manufacturing. According to a survey of supply chain professionals, almost three quarters (73.5%) thought the festivities would cause delays.

The survey, conducted by Container xChange with 2,300 respondents, with 55% saying they had planned ahead for New Year.

The factory closures are predicted to continue for some time, well beyond the end of celebrations in China.

The previous decrease in demand meant there had been several blank sailings from Asia. This is when an ocean freight operator cancels or alters routes.

However, the combination of New Year, Covid and the already disrupted supply chain could limit shipments able to leave China.

A different climate

Compared to previous years there is a lot of inventory currently. This leads to a whole array of other issues, including port congestion and capacity management. Usually there is a small surge pre-empting New Year, which hasn’t really occurred this time around.

Freight rates are the lowest they have been since 2019, and
prices to the East Coast are 83% lower than last year.

Many supply chain professionals are concerned there will be a second wave of shutdowns after New Year. Since so many people are gathering and meeting, there could be enough infections to once again halt production.

Further down the line this would add to the workforce shortages affecting the already congested ports.

Much of the stock is sitting in the port for a prolonged time, and while plenty of containers are available, there are fewer transport trucks. 

Don’t worry…

When it comes to electronic components, Cyclops Electronics is an efficient and reliable provider. We have more than 30 years’ experience in this industry, and we’re sure we can provide what you need. Get in touch today at sales@cyclops-electronics.com, or call us on +44 (0) 1904 415 415.

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