The obsolescence of electronic components is unavoidable, but while its impact on products can't be controlled, its impact can be minimised. As with Quality, EMC and testability, the quicker the issue is addressed, the smaller the cost will be. A strong policy regarding obsolete component management will pay off in the long term. It can take some convincing to persuade those in charge of the budget to accept this principle, but in the long run, it's always more profitable to avoid problems in the first place rather than to have to shell out to solve them.
How does a component become obsolete?
What can be done in the case of obsolescence?
Help, it's too late! What can be done?
