Electronic component traceability guide Date Code vs Lot Code vs Trace Code in Electronic Components A date code tells you when a manufacturer-defined event occurred. A lot code identifies a controlled production group. A trace…

Electronic Component Buying Guide Spot Stock vs Factory Lead Time vs Broker Stock The terms do not describe the same thing. Spot stock describes near-term availability. Factory lead time estimates future production or replenishment. Broker…

Electronic component lifecycle guide PCN vs PDN vs NRND vs EOL vs Last-Time Buy These terms do not mean the same thing. A PCN announces a change. A PDN announces discontinuance. NRND warns against a…

Electronic component buying guide How to Prepare a BOM for Electronic Component Sourcing A sourcing-ready BOM tells a supplier exactly what may be purchased. Pair every buyable line with the manufacturer and full orderable MPN,…

Semiconductor buying guide How to Read a Semiconductor Part Number Before Ordering Do not decode an IC number with a universal formula. First identify the manufacturer and the complete orderable code. Then confirm the package,…