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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about semiconductor procurement, component authenticity verification, and working with SupplyICs. Can't find what you need? Contact our team directly.

Sourcing & Procurement

How does SupplyICs source hard-to-find and EOL components?

We leverage a global network of verified suppliers, OEM excess programs, and authorized distribution channels. Our procurement team tracks inventory across 256+ manufacturers with real-time availability data. For EOL components, we maintain strategic buffer stock and relationships with manufacturers who hold final production runs.

What is the typical lead time for sourcing obsolete semiconductors?

In-stock items ship within 1-3 business days. For components requiring global sourcing, our team typically confirms availability and provides a competitive quotation within 24 hours. Physical delivery ranges from 3-7 days worldwide via DHL, FedEx, or UPS.

Do you have minimum order quantities (MOQ)?

MOQ varies by component and availability. Many legacy and EOL items can be sourced from 1-10 pieces. For high-volume production requirements, we offer competitive tiered pricing. Contact us with your specific part numbers for precise MOQ and pricing.

Which manufacturers do you source from?

We source from Analog Devices (ADI), Texas Instruments (TI), ON Semiconductor (onsemi), NXP, Microchip, Altera (Intel PSG), Xilinx (AMD), STMicroelectronics, Infineon, Renesas, and 246+ additional manufacturers. Our catalog spans FPGAs, MCUs, analog ICs, memory, RF components, and sensors.

Quality & Authenticity

How do you verify component authenticity?

Every component undergoes our multi-stage inspection protocol: (1) Visual inspection under 40x-1000x microscopy for marking consistency and package integrity, (2) Digital marking analysis against manufacturer reference databases, (3) Pin-level connectivity testing, (4) Co-planarity measurement for surface-mount packages. High-value or high-risk parts receive additional X-ray and/or decapsulation analysis through ISO/IEC 17025 accredited partner laboratories.

What certifications and standards do you follow?

We maintain ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management, operate under ANSI/ESD S20.20 electrostatic discharge protection, follow JEDEC J-STD-033 moisture-sensitive device handling, and comply with RoHS/REACH environmental directives. Our inspection methodology aligns with AS6081 counterfeit avoidance standards.

Do you provide certificates of conformance (CoC)?

Yes. Every order includes a detailed Certificate of Conformance documenting manufacturer origin, date codes, lot numbers, inspection results, and ESD/JEDEC packaging compliance. Enhanced documentation packages with microscopy images and test reports are available upon request.

What happens if counterfeit components are discovered?

Our multi-stage inspection protocol is designed to detect counterfeits before they reach your production line. In the extremely rare event that a suspect component is identified after delivery, we provide immediate replacement or full refund and launch a root-cause investigation with our quality engineering team.

RFQ & BOM Process

What is the RFQ process and how quickly will I receive a quote?

Submit your part numbers via our RFQ form with target quantities and any special requirements. Our procurement engineering team analyzes availability across our global network and provides a competitive, detailed quotation within 24 hours. Quotes include pricing, date codes, packaging specifications, and estimated delivery timelines.

How does the BOM upload work and is my data secure?

Upload your Bill of Materials as .xlsx, .csv, or .pdf. Our team performs lifecycle analysis on every line item — identifying EOL components, NRND parts, and single-source risks. We then provide a complete BOM response with pricing, alternatives, and procurement recommendations. All BOM data is transmitted and stored using enterprise-grade encryption and treated as proprietary information.

Can you provide cross-reference alternatives for obsolete parts?

Yes. For EOL or allocated components, our engineering team identifies pin-compatible and functionally equivalent alternatives across manufacturers. We provide parametric comparison data to support your engineering validation process and can supply samples for qualification.

Shipping & Logistics

What shipping methods do you use?

We ship worldwide via DHL, FedEx, and UPS with full tracking and insurance. Standard delivery is 3-7 business days globally. Express and next-flight-out options are available for production-critical requirements. All shipments include proper ESD packaging and JEDEC-compliant moisture barrier protection.

Do you ship internationally and handle customs clearance?

Yes. We ship to over 50 countries with full commercial invoice preparation, harmonized tariff codes (HS codes), and customs documentation. Our logistics team handles export compliance including ECCN classification for dual-use semiconductor components.

What are your payment terms?

We offer flexible payment terms including wire transfer (T/T), Letter of Credit (L/C) for large orders, and major trade payment platforms. Net-30 terms are available for qualified repeat customers. All pricing is provided in USD with multi-currency invoicing available upon request.

Industry & Market Insights

What is the difference between authorized and independent semiconductor distributors?

Authorized distributors have direct franchise agreements with manufacturers and handle current production runs. Independent distributors, like SupplyICs, source globally from excess inventory, OEM surpluses, and authorized channels to provide EOL (End-of-Life) components and shortage mitigation that franchised networks cannot fulfill.

How can I verify if a semiconductor component is counterfeit before purchasing?

Comprehensive verification requires strict protocols: visual inspection for resurfacing (blacktopping), checking laser etchings against manufacturer data, microscopic pin/lead analysis for prior use, and chemical decapsulation. SupplyICs executes these inspections in our JEDEC-compliant lab before shipment.

What is the typical lifecycle of FPGA components from XILINX and ALTERA?

While industrial FPGAs from XILINX (AMD) and ALTERA (Intel) are designed for 10-15 year lifecycles, many legacy series face unexpected allocation or EOL status when foundries transition to newer nodes. We specialize in sourcing these mature FPGA families to protect your product lines.

How do semiconductor tariffs and export controls affect component availability?

Tariffs and export controls cause regional shortages, restrict cross-border shipments of high-performance ICs, and create sudden price volatility. We leverage our global sourcing hubs and compliance expertise to navigate these trade restrictions and ensure continuous supply.

Still Have Questions?

Our procurement engineering team is available to discuss your specific component requirements and sourcing challenges.