Automotive electronics usage continues to increase in vehicles every year. Every year it increases, auto microelectronic packaging should play a bigger part, since the auto industry pushes for electronics that are more reliable, smaller in size, higher in content and lower in cost.

Microelectronics isn't the only part of electronics that you should focus on when dealing with cars. How do you know where to buy your electronics? How do you know where to find the lowest price without jeopardizing quality? When searching for these answers, consider the following when seeking out other types of automotive electronics information:

1. Consider car microelectronics from an automotive electronics distributor.

2. Cut costs and purchase refurbished automotive electronics.

3. Purchase electronics from an online automotive electronics distributor if microelectronics are too expensive for your business.

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

Mix it up a little, and buy microelectronics for cars

As its name implies, auto microelectronics are smaller components. As techniques improve, the devises become smaller and smaller. Investing in a few automotive microelectronics may be the best way to go, since they take up less space and are at the cutting edge of technology.

I recommend: With more than 20 years of experience in the automotive market, STMicroelectronics is recognized worldwide for its excellence in the auto electronics market. Check out its site to request free online samples to see if this is something for your business. Offering microelectronic semiconductors, Melexis Microelectronic Systems sells its components for HVAC, body styles, security systems and in-vehicle networking among others.

Save a few dollars, and purchase used auto electronics

Nowhere does it say you need to buy brand-new automotive electronics. Most stores and distributors that sell refurbished electronic equipment offer a warranty if you're nervous about the equipment's longevity. Check with the company, however, before you buy the equipment. If it breaks and there isn't a warranty, you're out the money while still owning the bum electronics.

I recommend: Python Injection sells refurbished electronic control devises for automobiles. United Recyclers Group offers an auto parts search of more than eight million auto parts. Yes, eight million. You'll find multiple types of recycled auto electronics parts here.

Buy straight from an online automotive electronics distributor

Just as you don't need to buy brand-new electronics equipment, there's no reason you need to pay top dollar and purchase your items at automotive electronics stores. If car microelectronics are too costly for your business, think about using a distributor to buy simple automotive electronics. Buying from a distributor can basically cut out the middle person, which cuts costs.

I recommend: Consider using HGM Automotive Electronics, as it offers its auto electronics items at list prices as well as through dealer networks. PowerLine Wholesale is an auto parts distributor where you can find many electronics wholesale options. Keep in mind that you need to pay a membership fee if you decide to purchase from this site.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The International Microelectronics and Packaging Society has a yearly technology workshop. The society started the workshop because auto electronics usage changes so quickly from month-to-month and year-to-year.