Overview
IEC 62668-2:2019 is an international standard established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) focused on process management for avionics with a specific focus on counterfeit prevention. This second part of the IEC 62668 series addresses the challenging aspect of managing electronic components sourced from non-franchised distributors in aerospace, defence, and high-performance (ADHP) industries.
The standard defines stringent requirements aimed at avoiding the use of counterfeit, recycled, or fraudulent electronic components when such components cannot be sourced directly from the original component manufacturer (OCM) or franchised distributor networks. This derogation process is intended to be employed only when no reasonable or practical alternatives exist, thereby ensuring component authenticity, reliability, and safety in critical avionics applications.
Its first edition cancels and replaces the earlier technical specification (IEC TS 62668-2, 2016), reflecting updates in risk assessment methodologies aligned with SAE standards, enhanced test methods, and harmonization with related parts of the IEC 62668 series.
Key Topics
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Scope and Applicability: Addresses components from non-franchised distributors used in aerospace, defence, and other high-reliability sectors where counterfeit prevention is crucial.
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Risk Assessment Process: Updated with references to SAE AS6081, this process identifies potential risks related to quality, reliability, legal matters, and financial implications of purchasing from untrusted sources.
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Derogation Procedure: Outlines a structured approach including:
- Notification to the OEM,
- Evaluation of alternative sourcing solutions,
- Establishment of approved non-franchised distributor lists,
- Risk analysis and order authorization,
- Inbound processing and manufacturing controls,
- Nonconformance and failure management.
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Testing and Validation: Incorporates updated test methodologies per SAE AS6171 standards for suspect electronic components, ensuring rigorous verification against counterfeit and fraudulent parts.
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Supply Chain Controls: Emphasizes transparent records, storage management, and order processing to maintain traceability and secure handling of components from non-franchised sources.
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Inter-Standard Coordination: Designed to be used alongside IEC 62239-1 (Procurement Controls) and IEC 62668-1 (Counterfeit Prevention General Requirements) for comprehensive counterfeit management in ADHP industries.
Applications
IEC 62668-2:2019 is essential for organizations within aerospace, defence, and related high-performance and high-reliability industries that must prevent the risk of counterfeit and fraudulent electronic components. Practical applications include:
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Avionics Manufacturing & Maintenance: Ensures components sourced beyond authorized channels meet strict authentication and reliability criteria.
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Supply Chain Management: Helps identify and manage risks when circumventing franchised distributors under constrained supply conditions such as obsolescence or allocation.
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Quality Assurance Programs: Supports implementation of robust inspection, testing, and verification processes to detect counterfeit electronic parts.
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Risk Mitigation Strategies: Guides decision-making when negotiating component sourcing challenges by evaluating technical, financial, and legal risks.
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Regulatory Compliance: Assists firms in aligning with industry best practices and legal frameworks, including references to Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
Related Standards
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IEC 62668-1: Process management for avionics – Counterfeit prevention – Part 1
Provides the overarching counterfeit prevention framework and general requirements applicable to avionics and other ADHP industries.
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IEC 62239-1: Management of procurement processes
Defines controls and workflows for procurement to minimize counterfeit component risks.
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SAE AS6081: Distributors of counterfeit electronic parts - avoidance, detection, mitigation, and disposition
Offers detailed risk assessment and management practices used as reference for this IEC standard.
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SAE AS6171 series: Test Methods Standard for Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical (EEE) Parts
Prescribes specific tests identifying counterfeit and fraudulent electronic components, integral to the validation process defined in IEC 62668-2.
Adopting IEC 62668-2:2019 enables avionics and defense manufacturers to maintain high levels of component integrity, safeguarding the operational reliability and safety of critical systems through effective counterfeit prevention when sourcing from non-franchised suppliers. This standard is a vital part of modern supply chain risk management strategies within high-stakes industries.