How to Search for Electronic Components

Finding electronics parts can be difficult, depending on the age of the part.

Searching for an electronic part that you need can be a daunting experience, especially if the part is old and obsolete. If the device you need a component for is new or still in use, the search is usually straightforward: just contact the manufacturer and have the company send you a new one. Finding the correct component starts to get tricky when the manufacturer no longer carries the part, but with some skilled searching, it can be done.

Instructions

1. Locate the part number of the component you wish to search for. For some components, the number is printed on the part. For other components, you may need to consult schematics or data sheets to find the part number.

2. Contact the product manufacturer. The manufacturer can often give you the part number, and many manufacturers have parts fulfillment centers that can ship you the component you need.

3. Search for the part number online. There are many web sites that allow you to search for electronic components. A few are listed in the Resources section below.

4. Check auction sites for the part number. Some people buy non-working electronics to disassemble for parts, and then resell the components.

Tips & Warnings

• When buying parts from sources other than the original manufacturer, be aware that they may be counterfeit. Check into the seller's reputation before you buy, and make sure they stand behind their parts with a guarantee of authenticity.

References

• Lady Ada: Finding Parts
• Thomas Net: Tracking Down Obsolete Parts: David R. Butcher: 2008
• American Electronics Resource: China's New Export Laws are Placing Lives in Jeopardy

Resources

• Find Chips
• 4 Star Electronics
• Part Target