-
- News
- Books
Featured Books
- pcb007 Magazine
Latest Issues
Current IssueVoices of the Industry
We take the pulse of the PCB industry by sharing insights from leading fabricators and suppliers in this month's issue. We've gathered their thoughts on the new U.S. administration, spending, the war in Ukraine, and their most pressing needs. It’s an eye-opening and enlightening look behind the curtain.
The Essential Guide to Surface Finishes
We go back to basics this month with a recount of a little history, and look forward to addressing the many challenges that high density, high frequency, adhesion, SI, and corrosion concerns for harsh environments bring to the fore. We compare and contrast surface finishes by type and application, take a hard look at the many iterations of gold plating, and address palladium as a surface finish.
It's Show Time!
In this month’s issue of PCB007 Magazine we reimagine the possibilities featuring stories all about IPC APEX EXPO 2025—covering what to look forward to, and what you don’t want to miss.
- Articles
- Columns
Search Console
- Links
- Media kit
||| MENU - pcb007 Magazine
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Kramer on Components: Independent Distributor - Supply Chain's Best Friend or Worst Enemy?
I started earning my living brokering electronic components in 2001. I quickly learned that the term “broker” came with some very negative preconceptions, such as the idea that brokers were unscrupulous liars, cheaters, etc. While much has changed about the component industry, much remains the same.
As independent electronics distributors come under increased scrutiny, I am often asked about the changes I have seen since my early days in the industry. Generally speaking, the loudest voice against independent distributors comes--as it always has--from the powerful presence of authorized distributors. This segment of the industry views independent distributors as both a threat to their bottom line and an easy target for the scapegoating of the component industry’s ills. However, due to the fact that high-quality independent distributors are critical to supply chain-wide counterfeit mitigation, I think it is pertinent to discuss the things that companies should consider before working with brokers or independent distributors. This advice is especially beneficial when it comes from the perspective of someone with first-hand industry knowledge and experience. Additionally, I wish to add some insight as to what I believe are legitimate criticisms of independent distributors and what are misconceptions that do not represent the whole story.
To discuss the industry of independent component distribution, some terms must first be defined. A broker is simply defined as “an agent who negotiates contracts of purchase and sale.” This term generally applies to independent distributors who sell parts outside a set arrangement with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or an original component manufacturer (OCM). Authorized distributors, on the other hand, have a direct arrangement with a manufacturer, often in the form of a franchise agreement. This distinction is important when it comes to counterfeit mitigation.Read the full column here.Editor's Note: This column originally appeared in the May 2014 issue of SMT Magazine.
More Columns from Kramer on Counterfeits
A Summary of Counterfeit Avoidance: Development & ImpactKramer on Counterfeits: Bad Customers
Kramer on Counterfeits: Counterfeit Electronic Parts Avoidance - Profitability or Catastrophe
U.S. Military Tools to Prevent Counterfeit Electronics
Kramer on Counterfeits: DFARS Flow Downs and Trusted Suppliers
Kramer on Counterfeits: Testing Requirements for Components from Unauthorized Sources
Kramer on Counterfeits: Protecting Your Supply Chain from Counterfeits & Liability
Kramer on Counterfeits: Investigations, Evidence, and an Unclear Solution