How to Detect Counterfeit and Recycled ICs
Practical counterfeit-mitigation: visual inspection, marking and package checks, date codes, X-ray/decap, supplier qualification and traceability.
External warning signs
Inspect laser/etch marking consistency, font alignment and spelling. Recycled parts often show sanded and re-marked surfaces, inconsistent lead plating (black-topped leads), or bent and re-tinned pins.
Verify date-code and lot-code consistency against the label and reel, and check for mismatched or low-quality packaging, missing moisture-sensitivity (MSD) bags, and abnormal pricing well below market.
Verification and sourcing controls
Layer controls: authorized/factory-direct supply first, then qualified franchised distributors. For open-market parts, request full traceability (COC, COO), perform incoming visual and X-ray inspection, and use electrical or decapsulation testing for critical BOMs.
Maintain an approved-vendor list, document inspection results, and quarantine suspect lots before they reach production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a very low price a counterfeit warning?
Yes — pricing far below the authorized channel for scarce parts is one of the strongest counterfeit indicators.
What documents support traceability?
Certificate of Conformance (COC), country of origin, lot/date codes and an unbroken chain from the authorized manufacturer.