Finding electronic component suppliers is not difficult. Even a quick shot on a general search engine yields many quality finds. However, general search engines do not know your specific applications and needs. When you begin looking at electronic components distributors, there are some ways to weed out the good from the bad.

Here are several simple tactics for finding the best electronic component parts distributor for your needs:

1. Seek out companies that sell the brands you've already used and trust.

2. If you have the knowledge to tell the difference between low and high quality components, or if you know exactly what you're looking for, wholesale and cut rate websites can save you some money.

3. If you need rare electronic components, shop sources that specialize in your range of electronic component uses. You may find serviceable parts elsewhere, but application-specific websites will carry a larger selection of your parts and may also have helpful information.

4. Look for electronic component distribution companies that have large selections and quality website designs. These types of websites tend to have quick shipping, good customer service and, obviously, give you the most product options.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy electronic components wholesale

If you know what you want, then why pay more? There are many electronic parts distributors that sell high volume and specialize in keeping their prices low. The wholesale drawback is not as bad as it is in other product areas, but these websites do not always as much product information. One way to get the best of both worlds is to find the product you want on the website of an electronic component manufacturer or retail source, and then find the same parts on wholesale sites.

I recommend: Some electronic parts wholesalers do, indeed, provide a decent amount of product information on their websites: T-san Electronics, for instance. DERF Electronics Corporation is another route. The website does not navigate as easily as some others, but you can download their catalog online or use their parts search tool. They have good prices and immediate availability.

Shop websites that have large selections of electronic components

If you're looking for a very specific type of electronics part, then the main point is finding a quality distributor that carries it. Generally speaking, however, the websites with the largest selections will give you the most options. You may even find something you hadn't thought of previously.

I recommend: Take a look at Digi-Key's product index. They have an alphabetical list of component category headings and under each is a long is of general varieties. Clicking on any of those varieties yields tens, hundreds or often thousands of individual items that fit that category. However, you'll have a similar experience when you take a look at Mouser Electronics' website.

Locate a distributor of electronic components that specializes in your field

Electronic component supply is broad, but the components you need may be very specific or specialized. Many sources cover a wide range, but the more particular your need, the more advantageous it is to find a specialty source.

I recommend: Want to communicate via microwave frequencies? Well, then head to Kuhne Electronic. They are customer friendly and produce custom parts. If semiconductors are your game, then you have a lot of sources to choose from. However, Commodity Components International even deals with obsolete semiconductors and integrated circuits.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Especially if you are a bulk or frequent buyer of electronic components, don't be disappointed to later find you've been overpaying. Compare prices with multiple websites.