Rochester Electronics is Not a Broker
Why Authorized Sources Matter in Semiconductor Sourcing
When sourcing End-of-Life (EOL) or obsolete semiconductors, transparency is critical. At Rochester Electronics, we make one thing abundantly clear: We’re Not a Broker. We are a 100% authorized source for EOL, obsolete, and active semiconductor products, directly supported by original component manufacturers (OCMs).
In 2024, up to 32% of global semiconductor revenue was obtained through authorized distributors based on global sales, with the rest being sourced through non-authorized channels, commonly known as the gray market. These include independent brokers, distributors, and dealers operating without formal OCM agreements. Their inventory often consists of excess stock, outdated components, or counterfeit devices.
Purchasing from these sources carries significant risks, such as:
- No manufacturer-backed warranties or technical support
- Untraceable supply chains are vulnerable to disruption
- Increased exposure to substandard or counterfeit products
- Potential financial and reputational damage
Counterfeiting has become a $600 billion global trade problem, with sophisticated operations capable of producing deceptive, authentic-looking components. Re-marked and recycled products may pass basic testing, but can fail in real-world applications, leading to reduced yields, in-service failures, and catastrophic system breakdowns. The 2024 ERAI report showed a 25% year-over-year increase in suspected counterfeit and non-conforming parts, the highest number reported by ERAI since 2015.
How Rochester Electronics Is Different
Rochester Electronics is an SAE AS6496-compliant authorized after-market supplier and licensed manufacturer. Our products come directly from the OCM, with full traceability and zero need for third-party testing. That means:
- Guaranteed authenticity and reliability
- Manufacturer-backed warranties and support
- Compliance with industry standards and certifications
- A secure, traceable supply chain
Rochester stocks over 15 billion devices across 200,000 part numbers, including more than 10 billion EOL components supplied directly by the original manufacturer. Our licensed manufacturing capabilities allow us to produce obsolete devices using original die, fab processes, and test protocols, ensuring 100% compliance with the original specifications.
Supporting Long-Term Lifecycle Needs
When a component reaches EOL, many customers assume their only option is the gray market. However, Rochester Electronics offers a risk-free, authorized path to continued supply—eliminating the need for costly redesigns, requalification, or system software changes. Our design solutions extend product lifecycles without introducing errata or requiring software updates.
In times of shortage or obsolescence, it’s tempting to turn to brokers. Rochester Electronics stands as the trusted partner for long-term semiconductor lifecycle solutions. We’re Not a Broker, but a certified, licensed, and guaranteed source.
Avoid the Risk. Trust Rochester.
Learn about the Security and Authenticity of the Authorized Supply Chain
Read Rochester’s White Paper: Combating the Risk of Semiconductor Counterfeiting
Read Rochester’s White Paper: Understanding the Power of Traceability
How to Avoid the Risks of Semiconductor Counterfeiting
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