# 3E Technology > International parts sourcing platform, founded in 1987 in New York. ## What We Do 3E Technology operates a parts sourcing database built from nearly 40 years of direct industry relationships. Buyers search by part number, brand, or company name to find suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers for electronic, industrial, mechanical, obsolete, hard-to-find, surplus, and replacement parts. ## Database Coverage - 105,000+ companies (suppliers, distributors, manufacturers) - 2,600,000+ parts tracked across all companies - 217,000+ brand listings - 50+ countries sourced from - Data collected continuously from 1987 through present - Enriched by AI research agents that discover and verify new suppliers ## Industries Served Aerospace, defense, telecommunications, manufacturing, energy, medical devices, automotive, marine, and general industrial procurement. ## Industry Standards Coverage The database includes suppliers meeting requirements for: - AS9100 (aerospace quality management) - ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) - IPC standards (electronics manufacturing) - MIL-spec components (military specifications) - RoHS/REACH compliance - ISO 9001 certified suppliers ## AI-Powered Discovery In addition to the core database, AI agents and our sourcing team continuously discover and verify new suppliers. Every search triggers the research system, which conducts multi-step investigations — querying industry databases, supplier networks, and the open web, then cross-referencing company registrations and validating contact information. Every discovered company is reviewed before publication. Research runs continuously — a search today can surface new suppliers months later. Users receive email notifications when new sources are found. ## What Makes 3E Technology Different Unlike parts aggregators that scrape public listings, the 3E Technology database was built from nearly 40 years of direct sourcing transactions — every company was added because a buyer needed a part and 3E found who had it. The database is continuously enriched by AI agents and a human sourcing team that discover and verify new suppliers. Suppliers also submit and update their own listings through a free vendor portal. ## How It Works 1. Search for any part number, brand, company name, or category (free) 2. See how many suppliers carry your part (free) 3. Unlock full contact details — phone numbers, emails, addresses (paid plans available) 4. Get notified when new suppliers are found for your search — the system continuously researches and adds new data ## For Suppliers Suppliers can list their parts and brands for free at https://3etech.com/for-suppliers. No fees, no contracts, no commissions. Registered suppliers get a vendor portal to manage their catalog, brands, and company information. ## Website - Homepage: https://3etech.com - Search: https://3etech.com/search - Pricing: https://3etech.com/pricing - About: https://3etech.com/about - For Suppliers: https://3etech.com/for-suppliers - Use Cases: https://3etech.com/use-cases/procurement - Brand Directory: https://3etech.com/brands - Parts Directory: https://3etech.com/parts - Company Directory: https://3etech.com/companies ## Resources ### Comparisons - [3E Technology vs FindChips: Direct Supplier Contacts](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/3e-vs-findchips) — FindChips aggregates distributor stock that's often weeks out of date. 3E Technology gives you direct, human-verified supplier contacts you can call today. - [3E Technology vs Octopart: Direct Supplier Contacts](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/3e-vs-octopart) — Octopart aggregates distributor stock that's often weeks out of date. 3E Technology gives you direct, human-verified supplier contacts you can call today. - [3E Technology vs SiliconExpert: Which Tool Does What?](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/3e-vs-siliconexpert) — 3E Technology finds who can source a part. SiliconExpert tells you everything about the part itself. Here's when to use each, and why many teams use both. - [3E Technology vs ThomasNet: Verified Data, Global Reach](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/3e-vs-thomasnet) — ThomasNet lists self-registered North American suppliers. 3E Technology covers 105,000+ vetted suppliers across 50+ countries with verified contact details. - [3E Technology vs Z2Data: Suppliers You Can Call](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/3e-vs-z2data) — Z2Data scores component risk. 3E Technology finds suppliers you can call. Different categories, and 3E is where the actual sourcing happens. - [Best Datasheet Search Sites (2026)](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/best-datasheet-search-sites) — AllDatasheet, Datasheet Archive, Octopart and more. Where to find electronic component datasheets, plus how to find a supplier once you have the part spec. - [Best FindChips Alternatives (2026)](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/best-findchips-alternatives) — FindChips aggregates authorized-distributor pricing for active parts. These alternatives cover obsolete components, brokers, surplus, and direct supplier contacts. - [Best Obsolete Electronic Component Suppliers & Distributors](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/best-obsolete-component-distributors) — Where to find obsolete and end-of-life electronic components: authorized continuation sources, specialty brokers, and surplus dealers you can contact directly. - [Best Octopart Alternatives (2026): Beyond Distributors](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/best-octopart-alternatives) — Octopart indexes authorized distributors, with data often weeks out of date. These alternatives cover brokers, surplus, and specialty sources Octopart misses. - [Best SiliconExpert Alternatives (2026)](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/best-siliconexpert-alternatives) — Looking for a SiliconExpert alternative? It is a component-data tool, not a supplier finder. Compare the options by what you actually need, and find suppliers free on 3E. - [Best ThomasNet Alternatives (2026): Verified, Global Data](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/best-thomasnet-alternatives) — ThomasNet lists self-registered North American suppliers. These alternatives offer verified data, international coverage, and cross-industry reach. - [Best Z2Data Alternatives (2026): Risk and Sourcing](https://3etech.com/resources/comparisons/best-z2data-alternatives) — Z2Data scores component risk. The best alternatives either match that intelligence layer, or give you the suppliers to act on the risk flags. ### Glossary - [Allocation](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/allocation) — Allocation is when component demand outstrips supply and manufacturers ration parts. Here's how it differs from obsolescence and how to source through it. - [AS6081](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/as6081) — AS6081 is an SAE standard for avoiding counterfeit parts when buying from independent distributors. Here's what it requires and when it applies. - [AS9100](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/as9100) — AS9100 is the aerospace quality management standard for manufacturers, built on ISO 9001. Here's what it covers and how it relates to AS9120 for distributors. - [AS9120](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/as9120) — AS9120 is the quality management standard for distributors of aerospace parts, adding traceability and counterfeit controls to ISO 9001. Here's what it covers. - [Authorized (Franchised) Distributor](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/authorized-distributor) — An authorized distributor sells components under a direct agreement with the manufacturer. Here's what that means for traceability and counterfeit risk. - [AVL / AML (Approved Vendor / Manufacturer List)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/avl-aml) — An AVL or AML is a company's list of approved suppliers or manufacturers for a part. Here's how approved lists shape sourcing decisions. - [BOM (Bill of Materials)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/bom-bill-of-materials) — A BOM is the complete list of components needed to build a product. Here's why the bill of materials is the starting point for sourcing and obsolescence work. - [Contract Manufacturer (EMS)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/contract-manufacturer-ems) — A contract manufacturer or EMS provider builds electronic products for OEMs, often handling procurement too. Here's the role it plays in component sourcing. - [COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/cots) — COTS parts are commercially available products used as-is instead of custom or military-grade ones. Here's the tradeoff COTS brings to sourcing. - [Counterfeit Electronic Component](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/counterfeit-electronic-component) — A counterfeit electronic component is a part misrepresented as to its origin or authenticity. Here's how counterfeits enter the supply chain and how to avoid them. - [Cross-Reference (Alternate Part)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/cross-reference) — A cross-reference is a functionally equivalent replacement for a component. Here's why cross-referencing is often the fastest fix for an obsolete part. - [Date Code](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/date-code) — A date code marks when a component was manufactured. Here's how date codes support traceability, shelf-life checks, and counterfeit detection. - [DMSMS (Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/dmsms) — DMSMS is the loss of sources or materials for a part over a long product life. Common in defense and aerospace. Here's what it means and how to manage it. - [EOL (End of Life)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/eol-end-of-life) — EOL, or End of Life, is a manufacturer's notice that a component will stop being produced. Here's what it means for sourcing and how to respond. - [Form, Fit, Function (FFF)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/form-fit-function) — Form, fit, and function are the three criteria for judging whether a replacement part is equivalent to the original. Here's how FFF governs drop-in substitution. - [Gray Market](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/gray-market) — Gray market components are genuine parts sold outside authorized channels. Here's how the gray market differs from counterfeit and what to watch for. - [Independent Distributor (Broker)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/independent-distributor-broker) — An independent distributor or broker buys and sells components on the open market without manufacturer authorization. Here's the role they fill and how to vet them. - [ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/itar) — ITAR is the US export-control regime for defense articles and technical data. Here's how it affects who can source and handle certain components. - [Last-Time Buy (LTB)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/last-time-buy-ltb) — A Last-Time Buy is the final order you can place on a component before production ends. Here's how the LTB window works and how to size the order. - [Lead Time](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/lead-time) — Lead time is the interval between placing an order and receiving the parts. Here's what drives it and why it spikes during shortages. - [Lot Code](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/lot-code) — A lot code identifies the production batch a component came from. Here's how lot codes support traceability and quality control in sourcing. - [MIL-SPEC (MIL-STD)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/mil-spec) — MIL-SPEC and MIL-STD are US military specifications and standards defining performance and testing for defense parts. Here's what they mean for sourcing. - [MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/moq-minimum-order-quantity) — MOQ is the smallest quantity a supplier will sell in one order. Here's how minimum order quantity affects sourcing, especially for low-volume needs. - [MPN (Manufacturer Part Number)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/mpn-manufacturer-part-number) — An MPN is the unique identifier a manufacturer assigns to a component. Here's why the manufacturer part number is essential to accurate sourcing. - [NRND (Not Recommended for New Designs)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/nrnd-not-recommended-for-new-designs) — NRND means a manufacturer is phasing out a component: still available, but not for new designs. Here's what the status signals and how to react. - [OCM (Original Component Manufacturer)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/ocm) — An OCM is the company that actually manufactures a component, such as a semiconductor or connector maker. Here's how it differs from an OEM and a distributor. - [OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/oem) — An OEM is the company that designs and makes an end product, integrating components from many suppliers. Here's the term's role in component sourcing. - [PCN (Product Change Notification)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/pcn-product-change-notification) — A PCN is a manufacturer's formal notice of a change to a component, from a process tweak to discontinuation. Here's what PCNs cover and why to track them. - [REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/reach) — REACH is the EU regulation governing chemical substances in products, including electronics. Here's how it relates to RoHS and to component sourcing. - [RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/rohs) — RoHS is an EU directive restricting hazardous substances like lead in electronics. Here's what it covers and why it matters for component sourcing. - [Second Source](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/second-source) — A second source is an alternative qualified supplier or manufacturer for a part. Here's why second sourcing protects against shortages and single-supplier risk. - [Surplus (Excess) Inventory](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/surplus-excess-inventory) — Surplus or excess inventory is unused component stock a company sells off. Here's where it comes from and why it matters for sourcing hard-to-find parts. - [Traceability](https://3etech.com/resources/glossary/traceability) — Traceability is the ability to trace a component's origin and history through the supply chain. Here's why it's central to quality and counterfeit avoidance. ### Guides - [Component Sourcing: A Practical Guide for Buyers](https://3etech.com/resources/guides/component-sourcing-guide) — How component sourcing works: the four supplier channels, a step-by-step sourcing workflow, how to vet suppliers, and where to find sources others miss. - [Component Obsolescence Management: A Proactive Guide](https://3etech.com/resources/guides/obsolescence-management) — How to manage electronic component obsolescence before it becomes a crisis: monitor lifecycle status, assess BOM risk, and mitigate with LTB, alternates, and second sources. - [How to Prevent Counterfeit Electronic Components](https://3etech.com/resources/guides/preventing-counterfeit-components) — A practical guide to counterfeit prevention: source selection, certifications like AS9120 and AS6081, traceability, and testing, with the highest risk in obsolete parts. - [How to Qualify a Second-Source Supplier](https://3etech.com/resources/guides/qualify-second-source-supplier) — A practical workflow for identifying, evaluating, and qualifying an alternate supplier, from candidate identification through vendor audit and approval. - [How to Reduce Supply Chain Risk With Diversified Sourcing](https://3etech.com/resources/guides/reduce-supply-chain-risk-diversified-sourcing) — How to identify critical single-source dependencies in your BOM, build diversified supplier shortlists, and track new source candidates. - [How to Source Obsolete Electronic Components: A Practical Guide](https://3etech.com/resources/guides/sourcing-obsolete-electronic-components) — When authorized distributors run dry on an EOL part, here's the workflow for finding inventory, vetting suppliers, and avoiding counterfeits. ### How It Works - [How 3E Handles Obsolete and Hard-to-Find Parts](https://3etech.com/resources/how-it-works/handling-obsolete-hard-to-find-parts) — How 3E surfaces suppliers for obsolete and EOL parts when authorized distributors no longer carry them. A core use case, not a side feature. - [How 3E Technology's AI Discovery Works](https://3etech.com/resources/how-it-works/how-ai-discovery-works) — Every search on 3E Technology triggers AI deep research that runs continuously in the background, finding and verifying new suppliers after you close the tab. - [How the 3E Database Was Built: 40 Years of Sourcing](https://3etech.com/resources/how-it-works/how-the-3e-database-was-built) — How 3E Technology built a 105,000+ supplier database through nearly 40 years of direct sourcing transactions, not scraping, not self-registration. - [Our Supplier Vetting Process](https://3etech.com/resources/how-it-works/supplier-vetting-process) — How 3E Technology vets every supplier before publication: automated checks, human review, and continuous re-verification across 105,000+ companies.