Traceability
Definition
Traceability is the ability to trace a component's origin and handling history through the supply chain, ideally back toward the original manufacturer. It is established through date codes, lot codes, and chain-of-custody records.
Why it matters
Traceability is the backbone of quality assurance and counterfeit avoidance. It makes recalls possible, supports failure analysis, and gives buyers confidence that parts are what they claim to be. It matters most in the secondary market: when buying obsolete parts from an independent distributor, traceability documentation is the primary defense, which is why standards like AS9120 and AS6081 build their requirements around it.
Related terms
- Date Code and Lot Code: the markings that enable traceability.
- AS9120: the distributor standard built on traceability.
3E Technology connects you directly to suppliers so you can request traceability documentation before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is traceability in component sourcing?+
Traceability is the ability to trace a component's origin and handling history through the supply chain, back toward the original manufacturer. It is documented with date codes, lot codes, and chain-of-custody records, and it is the foundation of quality control, recalls, and counterfeit avoidance.
How do I get traceability on parts from a broker?+
Request documentation up front: date and lot codes, the source the parts came from, and a chain-of-custody record where available. Suppliers certified to AS9120 or AS6081 maintain this as standard practice. For critical parts, pair documentation with independent inspection or testing.
Related Resources
Date Code
A date code marks when a component was manufactured. Here's how date codes support traceability, shelf-life checks, and counterfeit detection.
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.
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.
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.
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