Counterfeit Components and Product Compliance Challenges

Alex Martin [RINA]

Abstract: 

Counterfeit components present various risks to electronics manufacturers, not least potential product failures and safety non-compliance. This presentation will discuss what to look for and consider in component sourcing born out of experience investigating counterfeit-related failures and understanding of product regulation/legal liability.

Under discussion will be:

• What is a counterfeit? What is a clone?
• Prevalence of counterfeiting / impacts and consequences
• Complicating factors
• How counterfeit components can enter the supply chain
• Counterfeiting techniques (e.g., reverse engineered components, re-packaged components)
• Prevention strategies (use of authorised distributors, stock control)
• Identification techniques (e.g., polymer comparison using FTIR or DSC; electrical testing).

Biography: 

Alex Martin [RINA]

Dr. Alex Martin is a Senior Regulatory Consultant at the global testing, inspection, certification and engineering consultancy business, RINA. Alex has over ten years of experience working on product regulatory, standards, and policy issues pertaining to the supply of electrical and electronic equipment in the UK and internationally. Alex is knowledgeable on a range of EU and UK product safety, performance, and environmental legislation affecting electrical and electronic equipment, including CE marking laws like LVD, EMCD, ecodesign, and RoHS, as well as batteries, WEEE and packaging laws and the REACH Regulation. Prior to joining RINA, Alex had responsibility for product quality/compliance and responsible sourcing at a UK consumer goods supplier; worked as a technical officer at AMDEA, the UK trade association for manufacturers of household appliances; and held an engineering post at a major electronics multinational.

Kat Erdahl

For more information about the event, exhibition opportunities, accommodation, and registration, please contact Kat Erdahl, Events and Administrative Manager, SMTA.

Dr. Diganta Das

For more information about the Technical Program and Professional Development Courses, please contact Dr. Diganta Das, Conference Chair, CALCE.