Electronic components are vital in countless devices and systems. As a supply chain manager or technician, it is crucial to know how to identify these electronic components accurately, whether for maintenance, replacement, or sourcing purposes.
In this article, we’ll guide you through identifying electronic components, including effectively differentiating SKU, serial, and part numbers.
Understanding the Basics
Before the identification process, let’s clarify the key terms for different electronic component naming conventions:
Serial Number
A serial number is a unique identifier assigned to an individual electronic component by the manufacturer. It helps track the component’s production history, making it essential for warranty purposes and quality control. Serial numbers are usually etched or printed on the component itself.
Part Number
A part number is a code assigned to a specific component or assembly by the manufacturer. It is a reference for identifying the exact part you need within a product line. Part numbers are often found on the component or in the manufacturer’s documentation.
SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
As a type of electronic component part numbering system, an SKU is a code the distributor or seller assigns to a component to help manage inventory. It may or may not match the manufacturer’s part number. SKUs are often for ordering and tracking purposes.
Identifying Electronic Components
The significant difference between a serial number, a part number, and an SKU is that serial numbers are unique to each component. In contrast, part numbers are universal or the same for all components of the same model, and SKUs identify the component type but may sometimes match the manufacturer’s part number.
This means that part numbers and SKUs will be the most helpful for manufacturers, maintenance crews, and suppliers looking to identify and replace an electronic component in their supply chain.
Part Numbers
Part numbers are the most common way to identify electronic components. They are usually printed on the component’s surface as character strings containing numbers and letters.
Consult the manufacturer’s documentation or website if it is not on the component. Manufacturers often provide part number lookup tools that allow you to find product specifications and details.
Distributor or Seller’s SKU
If you are working with a distributor or supplier, they might use their SKU system to identify electronic components. This code may not match the manufacturer’s part number, but it can still help you identify the component in their inventory. Contact your supplier and provide them with the SKU; they should be able to assist you in finding the correct part.
Identify Electronic Components with Part Locator
Online resources and databases, such as those offered by Part Locator, can help you cross-reference part numbers and SKUs to find compatible components or alternatives.
Part Locator provides an easy way to identify an electronic component by searching the component’s part number using Part Locator’s search feature. Find your part using the part search bar.
