Fusion Bolsters Anti-Counterfeit Protection with High-Tech Quality Lab

Fusion Bolsters Anti-Counterfeit Protection with High-Tech Quality Lab

Industry’s most advanced in-house screening and analysis lab to address electronics supply chain’s greatest foe

Andover, MA – November 10, 2009 – To further protect against the increasing volume of counterfeit electronics components entering into the supply chain, Fusion , a global independent distributor of electronic components, has invested heavily in a new Anti-Counterfeit Screening and Analysis Laboratory . The lab – the most advanced among independent distributors – enables Fusion to conduct both destructive and non-destructive screening and analysis, supplementing its rigorous quality and inspection processes already in place.

The announcement of the lab’s opening comes on the heels of Fusion meeting the stringent membership requirements of The Independent Distributors of Electronics Association (IDEA). In its ongoing efforts to protect customers and thwart counterfeiters, Fusion has employed anti-counterfeit screening equipment and procedures within each of its worldwide Quality Hubs, all of which are ANSI ESD 20.20-certified. Inspections conducted at all of the Quality Hubs are conducted by IDEA-certified inspectors only.

Among the new analytical equipment contained in the lab are:

• Real-time X-Ray Imaging System: allows inspectors to analyze and photograph die and lead frames; compare to confirmed good samples; and check wire bonds, look for void defects and detect moisture penetration

• Decapsulation Machine: exposes the interior of the chips allowing for inspection with the high-power microscope

• High-power (2000x) Optical Microscopy: allows for observation of parts under both light and dark field contrast to observe any type of handling and rework markings; and for comparison to confirmed good samples

“As counterfeiters get increasingly more sophisticated, accordingly, it’s even more imperative for us to know and trust that the components we utilize in our products are authentic,” said Kamran Mohajer, Sr. Manager, Manufacturing Engineering, Cisco Systems. “As a standard, Fusion continuously pursues and employs the latest technologies and methods to insure its products are not bogus and/or are of poor quality. This is the only way to beat the counterfeiters at their game. It brings much assurance and peace of mind for us.”

The new lab’s screening and analysis capabilities supplement rigorous quality and inspection processes Fusion already has in place:

• Highest Global Sourcing Standards: 5-phase vendor verification process; vendor rating system; and site audits

• 21-Point Receiving Inspection Process: components are documented; meticulously audited; stored in a climate-controlled, ESD-compliant warehouse

• Counterfeit Avoidance Program: 100% traceability utilizing database comparisons and manufacturer specifications; certified inspectors; $10 million errors and omissions insurance; monthly quality roundtable process

• Global Logistics: worldwide, world-class shipping; established and documented procedures for packing/shipping; notification upon receipt of product

“It is essential, for all parties involved, that the products we distribute are authentic and of the highest quality,” said Paul Romano, COO at Fusion. “We hope that our customers see our new Quality Lab , another step on top of the many rigid inspection and vendor protocol procedures we employ, as a testament to our unrelenting commitment to deliver superior customer service and the highest quality products.”

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