Authenticity Verification for Electronic Components

Trust is good, verification is better

Protection against counterfeits

Authenticity Testing for Components Such as Integrated Circuits

The global chip shortage from 2021 to 2023 led to an enormous increase in counterfeit semiconductors, which – as you are surely aware – poses significant risks to the entire supply chain.

The shortage of genuine components, coupled with strict time-to-market requirements, created the perfect environment for component counterfeiters. At the same time, these have become increasingly sophisticated and now use advanced technologies to create nearly perfect replicas. To counter this growing threat, comprehensive testing capabilities are essential to ensure the authenticity and functionality of procured semiconductors, as well as other electronic components.

Caution

These Risks Lie Behind Counterfeit Semiconductors

Security risks

In safety-critical applications, defective counterfeit ICs can pose a significant threat and endanger the safety of users and devices.

System malfunctions

Counterfeit ICs may not meet performance specifications, which can lead to unexpected system behavior and potential failures.

Shortened lifespan

Counterfeits often use inferior components, leading to shorter lifespan and increased maintenance costs.

Intellectual property theft

Counterfeits undermine the intellectual property rights of legitimate IC designers and hinder innovation and growth.

Security vulnerabilities

Malicious actors can embed hidden functions in counterfeit ICs, creating security vulnerabilities and potential backdoors for unauthorized access.

How it works

How We Verify

Physical inspection

Optical and visual inspections using manual and high-resolution camera systems (up to 1000x magnification) carefully examine packages and chips for signs of tampering or irregularities, identifying potential physical markers of counterfeit parts.

Electrical testing

Functional testing with state-of-the-art equipment verifies the electrical characteristics of the semiconductor against manufacturer specifications. This ensures that the part functions within established parameters and performs as expected in your application.

Non-Destructive X-Ray Analysis

This technique provides a comprehensive understanding of a component's internal workings. Other methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) deliver additional information. SEM provides high-resolution images of the component's surface, while EDX enables elemental analysis that reveals the materials used.

Component Decapsulation

In some cases, decapsulation (exposing the silicon chip) may be required to access the internal components for this type of analysis. This is typically performed on selected components (e.g., one part per date code and/or batch) to verify the manufacturer's unique identification directly on the chip.

Programming Validation (if applicable)

When component programming (or programming with test patterns) is requested, SEMITRON can verify the integrity of the loaded firmware or code against the original specifications. In addition, a uniquely assigned manufacturer ID that is permanently stored in the component is verified through the so-called ID check.

Our Approach

Component Authentication Testing at SEMITRON

We place great value on trust and the integrity of components in your supply chain. Our advanced test house goes beyond simple visual inspections and employs a multi-stage authentication process for your components. This comprehensive approach minimizes the risk of counterfeits and guarantees genuine components that can be seamlessly integrated into your production line.

Authentication testing based on the AS6081 standard is designed for safety-critical applications such as aerospace or medical technology. We maintain close contact with our customers and keep them constantly informed of results and findings so that relevant decisions can be made at any time. This avoids unnecessary costs and time loss.

By implementing the following strict authentication methods, we protect your production line from counterfeit components, ensuring trust and reliability.

Standard authenticity testing – what is tested:

Optical and visual inspection of general condition
Dimensional accuracy testing
Solvent test on three components
Chemical decapsulation on two components
Documentation of internal markings
Comparison with golden sample (original manufacturer component)
Test report in electronic form

Authenticity testing based on AS6081 standard – what is tested:

Optical and visual inspection of general condition
Dimensional accuracy testing
Solvent test on three components per date code
X-ray examination of 45 units
Scanning electron microscopy on three pieces
Chemical decapsulation of three components
Documentation of internal markings
Comparison with golden sample (original manufacturer component)
Test report in electronic form

Would you like to be certain about the authenticity of components?

Three steps for certainty

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Authenticity Testing

Are authenticity tests necessary for components purchased through your distribution?

Authenticity verifications are not required for devices purchased through our distribution services. However, we strongly recommend these services for devices acquired through unauthorized suppliers and third parties, such as brokers.

Which services are frequently requested together with authenticity testing?

Most inquiries we receive together with authenticity verifications concern packaging services for extended lifespan.

How long does a typical authenticity verification take?

This varies depending on your specific needs and volume. Please specify your timeframe in your initial inquiry so we can do our best to meet it.

The SEMITRON advantage

More Than Just Authenticity Testing

SEMITRON’s unique value lies in the combined expertise in distribution and test house services. As an authorized distributor, we offer a wide range of components from leading manufacturers. But we don’t just deliver components. Our state-of-the-art facilities and test house services ensure that your components function perfectly in your specific application. Throughout the entire process, you benefit from the comprehensive knowledge and support of our team.

SEMITRON’s test house offers a variety of services beyond authenticity verification. We can perform various tests to ensure the quality and functionality of your electronic components. These include optical/visual inspections, component analyses and thermal testing. In addition, we offer services such as taping, rework and mechanical modifications to meet your specific project requirements.

Component Programming

Electronic Component Testing

Long-Term Packaging

Tape and Reel Service

Process