In this case study from White Horse Laboratories, we see how testing uncovers counterfeit ICs.
The Challenge
A special equipment manufacturing company encountered a serious issue when a batch of power switch ICs failed to perform as expected, causing multiple circuit boards to malfunction during testing. With their production line at risk and potential delivery delays looming, the company sought White Horse Lab’s expertise to investigate the problem and avoid larger losses.
The Solution
Comprehensive Testing Reveals Counterfeit Components
White Horse Labs launched a thorough investigation, starting with External Visual Inspection (EVI) to identify surface-level anomalies, followed by X-ray analysis to examine internal structures. After conducting decapsulation and die analysis, we discovered that the ICs were not only used and remarked, but some didn’t contain a functional die at all—confirming they were counterfeit.
The Benefit
Successful Product Recall and Prevention of Long-term Losses
Equipped with White Horse Lab’s detailed failure analysis report, the customer quickly returned the faulty components and secured compensation from their supplier. More importantly, by identifying the issue early, the company prevented counterfeit parts from entering the production line, avoiding potential damage to their brand reputation, operational downtime, and future financial losses.
About White Horse Labs
White Horse Labs was established to create a world where electronics are always reliable and genuine, addressing counterfeit challenges at their source. As the pioneers in Asia, we developed innovative testing methods that set industry standards, ensuring electronics were tested with rigor, transparency, and integrity.
Our services have expanded beyond counterfeit detection and component testing to a holistic approach to quality control. From a modest beginning to a global presence, we have remained committed to ensuring the integrity of the electronics supply chain, continually leading and innovating to keep the world’s electronics trustworthy and reliable. www.whitehorselabs.com
