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  • Author Author: cookieglitch
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"Fake semiconductors 'could cause tragedy'" - BBC News

cookieglitch

According to recent research by iSuppli fake chips are a tradedy waiting to happen. Since 2009, it is thought the use of fake components has tripled, meaning an increased possibility of unreliable components finding their way into safety critical systems such as military hardware, aerospace equipment and medical devices. This increase has already cost the industry more than $169 Billion. The BBC article can be found at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-17665527

 

Has anyone out there dealt with fake components? How do you go about validating parts before you use them? Any other advice for dealign with this situation, whether it is in a safety critical application or not?

  • in reply to DAB

    Parts should indeed be verified and validated. We have so many standards for software in safety critical applications so why not for parts? (Unless I've missed it of course). There is no excuse for not putting in the effort to test a batch of parts. Yes it will increase costs, but that is still cheaper than paying out all the compensation and fines.

     

    In terms of prosecuting the seller, I'd be curious what distributers would say to periodic testing of stock. Not necessarily on the same scale as the buyer, but one or two samples should help catch any fakes that slip through. Exception being any that have came directly from an established manufacturer rather than another distributer. For me, any sign of coming from a reliable supply network is reassuring. By no means a perfect solution, but certainly a good starting point for SMEs or just anyone new to the concept.

  • With unethical companies putting unqualified parts out for sale, we indeed need to test each delivery and maybe, each part.

     

    It is clear that the laws need to be changed to hold the seller liable for lost equipment and lives.  They may rethink their policy of profit at any cost if they could be held for manslaughter if an aircraft goes down.

     

    This problem is the result of nations allowing their most sensitive industries go out of business due to foriegn companies just to save a little money.  I firmly believe that all critical systems should only include verified and validated parts.  Anything less is criminal negligence!

     

    Just my opinion.

    DAB