Locating Obsolete Component Replacements

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding replacements for obsolete electronic components, particularly in the context of redesigning older products. Participants share resources and strategies for locating drop-in replacements that do not require PCB rework, with a focus on various types of components, especially integrated circuits (ICs).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks resources for locating replacements for obsolete components, emphasizing the need for drop-in solutions without PCB modifications.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on the types of components needing replacement, suggesting that the difficulty may vary by component type.
  • A participant mentions having the most trouble with ICs, noting that many replacements available are surface mount technology (SMT) while the original designs are through-hole.
  • One suggestion involves creating adapter boardlets to convert SMT components to through-hole formats, although this is described as not an ideal solution.
  • Another participant recommends Findchips.com as a resource for locating parts, though they express uncertainty about its effectiveness for obsolete components.
  • A participant points out that military and multinational organizations are destocking obsolete components, which can sometimes be found on auction sites like eBay.
  • Another suggestion includes checking Mouser Electronics for a wide variety of components without minimum order requirements.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the challenges of finding replacements for obsolete components, particularly ICs. However, there are multiple competing views on the best resources and strategies for locating these components, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the effectiveness of the suggested solutions.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of success with different resources and approaches, indicating that the effectiveness of suggestions may depend on specific component types and availability.

branbailey9
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I have been re-designing some older products at work to address obsolescence issues. Does anybody know a good resource for locating replacements for obsolete components. The ideal solution would be to find components that would not require any PCB rework, but finding drop in replacements is proving to be difficult. I appreciate any input.
 
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branbailey9 said:
I have been re-designing some older products at work to address obsolescence issues. Does anybody know a good resource for locating replacements for obsolete components. The ideal solution would be to find components that would not require any PCB rework, but finding drop in replacements is proving to be difficult. I appreciate any input.

Yes, this is something that many of us have to deal with.

It depends on the component. What types of components are you needing to replace? ICs, semiconductors, memory chips, etc?
 
I am replacing every kind of component but I am having the most trouble with ICs. Since some of these designs are from the 1970s everything is thru hole and almost every potential replacement I find is SMT.
 
Last edited:
branbailey9 said:
I am replacing every kind of component but I am having the most trouble with ICs. Since some of these designs are from the 1970s everything is thru hole and almost every potential replacement I find is SMT.

One option (although not a great option) would be to make little adapter boardlets from SOIC to DIP, kind of like the Surfboards:

http://www.capitaladvanced.com/9000ser.htm

But with the required DIP pattern instead. You may be able to find them already available, so you don't have to make them yourself. If your volumes are not too high, little adapter boardlets can maybe help with the more difficult ICs.
 
Great Suggestion. Thank you very much.
 
Also, a good website for looking for parts in distribution is Findchips.com

www.findchips.com

I'm not sure how good they would be with obsolete parts, though. Good luck!
 
It sounds like you are seeking stocks for a service and maintenance department.

Many military and multinational organisations are destocking and interesting job lots of such components (new but obsolete) are frequently offered on Ebay and other auction sites.

There is a supplier in Munich who seems to have an inexhaustable supply of germanium stuff, plus other more recent.

Another such supplier from Liverpool offers all kinds of ex telecom stuff.
 
Have you tried Mouser Electronics? No minimum order, and they have a LOT of stuff.

http://www.mouser.com/?cm_mmc=google-_-ppc-_-brand&gclid=CMaZm9zsj6YCFcnc4AodpA23nA
 
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