Resolving Electronic Component Obsolescence and Supply Challenges
At ADOTT Solutions, where innovation meets engineering excellence, we understand the complexities businesses face in the dynamic landscape of electronic components in design and supply chain management. As products become more complex and supply chains struggle to meet demand, companies are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain and support their electronic designs. This can have a significant impact on their ability to deliver products to market, meet customer demands, and maintain a competitive edge.
Navigating Electronic Component Challenges
Throughout the lifecycle of electronic products, challenges such as obsolescence and supply chain disruptions are inevitable. Industries with prolonged certification processes, like hazardous area equipment manufacturing, often grapple with these issues as product designs endure for extended periods to maximize return on investment.
In recent times, the electronics industry has witnessed obsolescence issues and a surge in supply chain challenges, with some components experiencing lead times exceeding a year. This has forced businesses to adapt their designs and find alternative components that are more readily available.
Identifying Suitable Alternatives
The key to overcoming these challenges lies in identifying suitable alternative electronic components. This process involves a comprehensive evaluation considering physical, electrical, and commercial factors. The replacement component must align with the original in terms of footprint, pin configuration, operating limits, and other critical parameters. Commercial aspects such as cost, availability, and lifecycle stage also play a pivotal role in the selection process.
It’s imperative to conduct a thorough assessment to ensure that the proposed component change does not compromise compliance, especially in applications where safety and regulatory adherence are paramount, such as ATEX-certified circuits or medical devices.
Executing Design Modifications
In many instances, a straightforward change to the bill of materials (BOM) suffices when direct replacements are available. However, for devices with unique functionalities, modifications at the schematic and printed circuit board (PCB) layout levels become necessary. This might involve reverse engineering or updating the Gerber pack when original PCB design files are inaccessible or obsolete.
Validating Design Modifications
Rigorous validation is a critical phase in the process. After implementing design modifications, physical prototypes are produced and thoroughly tested. ADOTT Solutions’ in-house facilities, equipped with advanced electronics testing equipment, allow us to expedite the validation of the first-piece PCB assemblies. This ensures swift verification of design modifications, minimizing delays in the project timeline.
Ensuring Compliance and Conformity
Any design modifications that impact product conformity trigger a reassessment of compliance areas. This may involve self-assessment against harmonized standards for CE marking, EMC testing, or collaboration with independent bodies for approvals, especially in hazardous area applications.
Handover and Completion
Upon successful completion of the modifications, we provide a comprehensive handover. This may include:
Gerber pack and manufacturing data,
detailed test results, and if required,
evidence of conformity.
Armed with this information, you have everything needed to seamlessly transition into manufacturing the modified design.
If your business is grappling with electronic component supply challenges, our team at ADOTT Solutions is here to assist. Reach out to us, and let’s explore how we can navigate these complexities together.
Your projects deserve innovative solutions that stand the test of time.
