Component management: evolution from traffic cops to value-added function

The authors describe the implementation of a component management program that meets design, manufacturing, and end-customer needs. Design sees shorter qualification intervals, lower qualification costs, faster manufacturing ramp-up, and fewer calls for component substitution approval. Manufacturing sees a large reduction in active components, higher incoming quality, elimination of incoming inspection, fewer suppliers to deal with, and fewer supply crises. The end customer sees better circuit pack reliability and faster product delivery