How is one to trace the origins of electronic components? In my project, I have a fair number of resistors, capacitors, LEDs etc, as well as some ICs: SN754410NE, ATmega328 and a HC-06 bluetooth module. Also I will require some small geared DC motors.
I would like to trace the origin of these components before I buy them to obtain some assurance of quality and also to try and avoid purchasing from manufacturers who employ child labor and unethical practices. A lot of the stuff I have looked at is sold on Ebay where there is no real information given about the manufacture.
It seems so hard to get any useful information from serial numbers and from what is available online. For example, all I can find about the HC-06 is that it comes from a factory in Hong Kong.
Are there any suppliers of quality and ethically produced electronics? Are there any suppliers of recycled electronic components around?
If you buy from places like Digi-Key or Mouser, the manufacturer is (usually) clearly identified. If you buy from random sellers on eBay, who knows????
I'm not sure how far you'll have to dig to find the country of origin. You'll probably have to dig fairly deep to discover their labor practices.
These companies often have factories in multiple countries and data sheet may list more than one country. On ICs, there is probably some sort of country code, if you can figure-out how to decode it, and it's unlikely to know for sure until you have the parts in your hand.
A lot of OH&S situations require them, also any contractor doing quotes and repairs.
They do show a place of manufacture, but it is not a requirement in law to provide for all goods unfortunately.
Legislation requires that the source of components is known. Farnell have a specialised department for this and also a web page and forum to discuss matters.
