JUNE 2025
Obsolescence Management
In the semiconductor sector, managing obsolescence is an ongoing challenge for manufacturers. As technology evolves rapidly, older materials and components swiftly become obsolete, failing to meet market demands. This can result in supply shortages and difficulties in procuring essential parts for semiconductor devices. Various forms of obsolescence, including technological, fit, legal, and form obsolescence, pose distinct challenges that companies must navigate to remain competitive. To effectively manage obsolescence, companies need a structured obsolescence management plan, vigilant supplier monitoring, and consideration of long-term inventory purchases.
Explore some of our commonly asked questions:
A: Semiconductor obsolescence occurs when a component—such as a microcontroller, memory chip, or analog IC—is no longer manufactured or supported by its supplier. This can severely impact product support, maintenance, and long-term system reliability.
A: Factors include:
- Rapid technology advancements
- Low market demand
- Supply chain shifts
- Regulatory changes
A: The different types of obsolescence include:
- Technological Obsolescence - the technology is obsolete and does not allow the supply chain to continue
- Fit Obsolescence - the device functionality has changed and will not support the project need
- Legal Obsolescence - IP expiration, no-renewal of IP or manufacturing agreement
- Form Obsolescence - example: parts are not available in the same package
- ROI Obsolescence - cannot produce the devices due to profitability/low volume
A: Best practices to consider:
- A formal obsolescence management plan
- Company's parts material and process (PMP) plan need to address obsolescence
- Plan! Plan! Plan! Planning is key for obsolescence management
- Have a good parts management database system
- Consider replacement options/choices
- Qualification is a key consideration for high reliability applications
- Careful consideration should be given to the alternate package technology
- Evaluate and monitor your suppliers for obsolescence
- Consider long term buy inventory
Q: What obsolescence management solutions does Integra provide?
A: Integra specializes in obsolescence management solutions including:
- Procure Parts, Value-add Testing, Kitting & Inventory Management
- Sourcing of Hard-to-Find Parts
- Form Fit Function Replacement
- Die Procurement & Assembly
- Die Extraction & Reassembly
- EOL Management & Lifetime Buys
- Manage Customer-Owned Inventory
- Process Change/Discontinuation Notice Management
- Integra Branded Parts
- Die Banking
- Reverse Engineer Device
- Custom ASIC & FPGA Device Emulation
- Aftermarket Procurement Services
- Comprehensive Counterfeit Detection Services
By staying ahead of obsolescence issues, semiconductor manufacturers can ensure their devices meet performance, reliability, and cost objectives.
Have more questions? Let us know: sales_inquiry@integra-tech.com