Component selection is the first step during schematic capture. In addition to being the most important activity of the PCBA design process, your choice of parts significantly influences the other two stages of PCBA development: manufacturing and testing. Similarly, the sources you rely on for the procurement of components impact the entire iterative design⇒build⇒test (DBT) development cycle and can hamper board production.
Where to get your electronic components is an important decision, and due diligence should be exercised before committing to a source. To help you, we have compiled a list of the top electronic component distributors based on services, experience, and expertise.
This list is based on our research on parts suppliers and their services. We based our rankings on the services offered, years in business, and a supply chain resiliency (SCR) metric with the following weighted factors:
- Availability and size of component stockpiles
- Turnaround times from manufacturers
- Counterfeit component susceptibility
- Availability of component data, datasheets, and other information
- Reputation
The factors above are derived from information available online at distributor websites and/or industry publications, and are listed according to their importance for SCR in descending order. The SCR is a quantitative ranking of our qualitative assessment of the distributor’s susceptibility to the many supply chain disruptions that can interfere with the timely and accurate delivery of electronic parts. In the table above, the higher the SCR score, the more resilient the supplier is to supply chain issues.
A Deeper Dive Into the Top Electronic Component Distributors
The top electronic component distributors on the list all have a history of serving the needs of OEMs, ODMs, PCB designers, engineers, and other electronic system developers. However, they each have notable characteristics that should be considered when choosing between them.
Choosing the Best Electronic Component Distributor
The global market for consumer electronics exceeds one trillion USD. Consequently, there is a sizable number of vendors and distributors of electronic components to choose from. With supply chain issues such as shortages and delays plaguing developers throughout the industry, choosing the top electronic component distributor for your project is more critical now than ever.
Partnering with an industry leader that sources from reliable electronics manufacturers, provides manufacturer-vetted CAD models, and offers services like a custom library built to your specifications is probably your best choice. Doing so ensures that quality components, accurate data, and supply chain resilience are the foundation of your design and development process.
If you’re looking for CAD models for common components or information on sourcing from the top electronic component distributors in the industry, Ultra Librarian helps by compiling all your sourcing and CAD information in one place.
Ultra Librarian works with the top electronic component distributors to offer services that streamline error-free design, production, and sourcing. Register today for free.
If you’re looking for any of our component footprints or models, we have readily available and free options for you and your design team. Search our library for the solution you’ve been looking for.
