Issue link: https://resources.pcb.cadence.com/i/1541046
6. Confirming Component Availability and Avoiding Obsolete Parts How To Implement 1. Check lifecycle and stock status before committing to a part: f Use integrated BOM management within your PCB design environment or distributor, manufacturer, and authorized supplier websites (Digi-Key, Mouser, Arrow, Avnet, manufacturer portals) to check each part's status. f Avoid parts marked as "EOL" (End of Life), "NRND" (Not Recommended for New Designs), "Obsolete," or "Last Time Buy." 2. Check lead time and regional availability: f For every BOM item, note lead times, minimum order quantities, and regional restrictions. f Avoid sole-sourced or "boutique" parts without multiple distribution channels. 3. Select alternates and drop-in replacements: f For critical ICs, passives, and connectors, identify at least one (preferably two) cross-compatible alternates, and include their part numbers in your BOM. f Choose parts in common packages and values to facilitate substitutions (e.g., standard resistor and cap sizes, common footprints). 4. Engage your contract manufacturer (CM) or sourcing team: f Send the preliminary BOM for sourcing feedback before layout begins. f Review with CM for preferred vendors, house parts, and any known allocation or EOL risks. 5. Monitor BOM for changes during design and procurement: f Re-run availability checks after every design change, ECN (engineering change), or layout revision. f Use BOM management software or EDA-integrated sourcing tools to automate alerts on status changes. 6. Document date codes and long-term risks: f For regulated or long-life projects (medical, automotive, industrial), record last buy dates, lot traceability, and projected lifecycle. f For high-volume products, consider a risk review with your supplier's field applications or sourcing engineer. Common Pitfalls, Their Impact, and How to Avoid Them Common Pitfall How to Avoid it Choosing parts based on price or spec only May lock you into an unavailable or soon-to-be-obsolete item — Check lifecycle status, supply risk, and alternates before selection. Skipping alternate selection Increases risk of redesign when parts go EOL or allocation hits — Identify 1 or 2 vetted alternates and add them to the BOM. Relying on old BOM data or footprints Part numbers, specs, and footprints change — Always check datasheets and distributor data before each build. Not engaging sourcing/CM until after layout Can force expensive, late-stage changes or scrapped boards — Work with them from the start. Share the preliminary BOM and stackup early for DFM feedback and lead-time checks.