At Advanced Component Testing, we believe that performing the complete component authenticity inspection report (CAIR) is almost always the right way to go because each step is invaluable to identifying component inconsistencies and defects.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS: Visual inspections allow us to locate obvious defects and inconsistencies between components of the same lot or date code. Much like an airline pilot performing a pre-flight walk around, we’re making sure to notice anything out of the ordinary. But that alone certainly doesn’t validate authenticity.

XRF spectrum analysis is another tool offering clues to a component’s origins. If the material composition does not match what the manufacturer indicates, suspicions are raised and we have yet another path to follow. Mechanical de-lidding and chemical decapsulation are vital methods for confirming physical consistency. Again, counterfeiting techniques are quite advanced and the components may perform electrically and pass all marking permanency tests; but removing the cover and exposing the die will let us visually confirm that the heart of the device originated at the correct manufacturer’s facility. Couple that with X-rays to match the layout and configuration of the internals and we can conclude with relative certainty whether or not a device is authentic.

So don’t shortchange yourself by running only a few cherry picked tests and rolling the dice. ACT’s entire process is designed to chip away at the various methods counterfeiters use to fool buyers. And isn’t it better to be safe than sorry?