EOL & shortage sourcing guide
Use this checklist when approved vendors cannot cover memory ICs, MCUs, or power parts on time. ICLee supports independent HK & Shenzhen stock with optional inspect-before-you-pay IQC.
What is EOL / shortage sourcing?
EOL sourcing means securing last-time or discontinued lots so production continues while you redesign. Shortage sourcing means covering allocation gaps with verified open-market or hub stock under agreed inspection depth.
Franchise channel vs ICLee independent stock
| Factor | Franchise / AVL | ICLee independent |
|---|---|---|
| Lead time risk | Often fixed factory LT; allocation queues | HK/SZ stock or broker network for bridge lots |
| AVL / franchise status | Authorized channel when on AVL | Independent distributor — not a franchise catalog |
| Inspection before pay | Usually incoming at customer site only | Optional IQC / X-ray / functional test before payment |
| MOQ flexibility | Reel/tray factory packs common | Small MOQ and sample-then-reel workflows |
| Best fit | Long-term AVL, stable NPI | EOL, shortage, line-down, date-code constrained buys |
RFQ steps (answer first: send PN + qty + need-by + IQC depth)
- List each line: part number, manufacturer, package, quantity.
- Add need-by date and date-code or MSL constraints.
- State allowed inspection: label only, visual, X-ray sample, or functional test.
- Submit via Request Quote or WhatsApp; we reply with stock, LT, and inspection quote.
Category tips
Memory ICs (Flash, DRAM, eMMC, FRAM)
Always state density, package, and date-code window. For EOL eMMC/Flash, ask for packing photos and whether X-ray is in scope before payment. Prefer lots that match your prior AVL marking style when possible.
MCUs & processors
Include silicon revision and temperature grade. Allocation fills often need sample-then-reel: clear IQC criteria on the sample so the production reel uses the same checklist.
Power management & connectors
Call out MSL and plating requirements. For connectors, photos of housings/pins reduce wrong-PN risk; for PMICs, confirm marking vs datasheet before approving pay.
When to choose X-ray or functional test
Choose X-ray when marking/risk of remarking matters on high-value or previously allocated lines. Choose functional test when the part is safety-critical or you need go/no-go data before payment. Details live on our Quality Control page.
What is an EOL backup quote?
A quote for last-time or discontinued memory/MCU lots that can bridge production while you redesign or wait on franchise allocation.
Franchise vs independent stock — which should I use?
Keep franchise for AVL-critical long-term supply. Use independent stock when timing, date code, or EOL blocks the build — with IQC depth agreed in writing.
What documents should I request?
Ask for packing photos, date code, CoC when available, and the IQC checklist (label/visual/X-ray/test) that will run before you pay.
How fast can ICLee ship from HK/SZ?
In-stock hub lots often move within 24h after payment and agreed inspection. International air via DHL/FedEx/UPS depends on destination and paperwork.
