Guides, comparisons, and explainers covering parts sourcing: how 3E Technology works, how we compare to alternatives, and deep dives into the industries and workflows we support.
Date Code Decoder
Decode a component date code (YYWW and other formats) to its manufacture date and age, and flag impossible codes that can indicate a remarked or counterfeit part.
SMD Resistor & Capacitor Code Calculator
Convert the short code printed on a surface-mount resistor or capacitor into its real value, covering 3-digit, 4-digit, R-notation, and EIA-96 codes.
CAGE Code Lookup and Format Guide
Validate a CAGE code, learn the 5-character format and CAGE vs NCAGE rules, and look up major defense and aerospace entities, with a link to the official registry.
Best Datasheet Search Sites (2026)
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)
FindChips aggregates authorized-distributor pricing for active parts. These alternatives cover obsolete components, brokers, surplus, and direct supplier contacts.
3E Technology vs ThomasNet: Verified Data, Global Reach
ThomasNet lists self-registered North American suppliers. 3E Technology covers 105,000+ vetted suppliers across 50+ countries with verified contact details.
Component Obsolescence Management: A Proactive Guide
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
A practical guide to counterfeit prevention: source selection, certifications like AS9120 and AS6081, traceability, and testing, with the highest risk in obsolete parts.
Component Sourcing: A Practical Guide for Buyers
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.
How 3E Handles Obsolete and 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 the 3E Database Was Built: 40 Years of Sourcing
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
How 3E Technology vets every supplier before publication: automated checks, human review, and continuous re-verification across 105,000+ companies.
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
AS6081 is an SAE standard for avoiding counterfeit parts when buying from independent distributors. Here's what it requires and when it applies.
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.