Dive deep into the hidden world of counterfeit electronic components with Elijah Miller, VP of Operations at The Lab Worldwide (TLW) in this episode of the OnTrack Podcast, hosted by Tech Consultant Zach Peterson. This comprehensive discussion reveals the sophisticated methods counterfeiters use to infiltrate the electronics supply chain, from remarked chips and harvested components to elaborate re-topping schemes. Learn how third-party testing laboratories authenticate components, the difference between franchise distributors and gray market sources, and the critical testing procedures that protect mission-critical applications. Whether you're a design engineer, procurement professional, or electronics enthusiast, this conversation provides invaluable insights into component authentication, quality assurance, and supply chain risk mitigation strategies.

Discover the shocking truth about component counterfeiting rates, the role of testing standards like AS6171 and AS6081, and advanced detection methods including C-SAM imaging and Raman spectroscopy. Elijah shares real-world examples of counterfeit incidents, explains how legitimate parts end up on the gray market, and offers practical advice for protecting your projects from fake components. This episode is essential viewing for anyone involved in electronics design, manufacturing, or procurement who wants to understand the realities of component authentication in today's complex supply chain.

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