Memory Shortages Are Here to Stay. Recovery and Reuse Offer a Practical Way Forward

Memory Shortages Are Here to Stay. Recovery and Reuse Offer a Practical Way Forward

Memory devices are under pressure.

Across global supply chains, demand for DRAM, NAND and other memory technologies continues to outpace supply. AI, data centres, automotive electronics and industrial systems are all competing for the same components. Availability is tight, lead times are stretching, prices are rising, and production plans are at risk.

Why are memory device shortages hit so hard?

Memory devices are critical components.

Without them, systems simply do not function. Yet these parts are also some of the most vulnerable to market volatility.

Demand for DRAM, NAND and other memory technologies continues to outstrip supply, with AI data centres and advanced computing infrastructures absorbing a growing share of production. Analysts report that up to 70 % of the world’s memory output may be consumed by large-scale data centres in 2026, tightening the rest of the market even further.

When authorised sources dry up, companies are left with difficult choices. Delay production. Redesign hardware. Or look for safe, proven alternatives to new supply.

Memory Device Recovery for Re-use is the practical way forward.

That’s where Retronix comes in.

We help companies deal with constrained memory supply through component recovery and reuse services. These services allow organisations to unlock value from parts that already exist within their own ecosystems including excess inventory, returned products, or decommissioned boards and turn them into certified, tested components ready for reuse.

Every part is carefully recovered, reconditioned and thoroughly tested to meet strict quality and performance standards. This ensures reliability without the risk and long lead times associated with waiting for a new supply.

Real-World results at scale.

Many customers facing memory shortages have turned to Retronix and found practical relief. We have supported a wide range of companies grappling with memory shortages. In many cases, the impact is measured not in dozens of parts, but in hundreds of thousands or even millions of devices.

A notable example is our work with a major cloud services provider. In collaboration with their supply chain and engineering teams, Retronix supported a large-scale memory reuse initiative that processed millions of memory devices and made them available for reuse across critical infrastructure — significantly easing procurement pressures and avoiding costly redesigns.

Memory shortages are unlikely to disappear overnight.

But with the right recovery and reuse strategy, they do not have to bring programmes to a halt.

Retronix works with customers to assess opportunities, manage risk and deliver high-quality, tested memory devices back into circulation. From hundreds to millions of components, our services help keep systems running when supply is tight. When new parts are hard to find, making better use of what already exists can make all the difference.

Facing ongoing memory device shortages?

Retronix provides a proven, ready solution through specialist component recovery and reuse services. Contact us today by emailing us on contact@retronix.com, using our Contact Us page, or reaching out via our social media channels to discuss how we can support your supply chain.

The Hidden Risks in Electronic Components

Obsolescence and Counterfeits: The Dual Threats in Electronic Components

Electronic components do not last forever. Parts become obsolete as manufacturers discontinue older technologies. At the same time, counterfeit components are increasing across global supply chains. Together, these issues create serious risk for electronics manufacturers.

Obsolescence puts pressure on procurement teams. When a critical component is no longer available through authorised channels, production can slow or stop entirely. Lead times increase. Costs rise. Programmes are put at risk.

Counterfeits make the problem worse. Scarcity creates opportunity for unverified suppliers. Components may look genuine but fail in service, perform unpredictably or compromise safety and compliance. The risk is not always visible until it is too late.

Why this matters?

Using unverified or untested components can lead to product failure, warranty claims and reputational damage. In high-reliability sectors, it can also mean regulatory non-compliance and safety concerns. Simply finding a part is no longer enough. Confidence in its authenticity and performance is essential.

A Clear, Practical Solution

Retronix helps organisations manage both obsolescence and counterfeit risk in a simple, controlled way.

Through component recovery and reuse, obsolete parts can be safely returned to service. Processes such as reballing, retinning and alloy refresh extend usable life while maintaining performance.

Through independent component testing, parts are verified before they enter production. Retronix operates to recognised industry standards, including AS6081 and AS6171 test methods, providing clear evidence of authenticity and quality.

This combination reduces reliance on high-risk sources. It protects supply chains. It keeps production moving.

Watch the full 3-min video here

Obsolescence and counterfeits are not going away. But they can be managed. With the right processes, data and expertise, organisations can reduce risk, control costs and extend the life of critical electronics. Retronix delivers practical solutions that are easy to understand and trusted by high-reliability industries worldwide.

Contact us to know more

Mission-Critical Reliability: Protecting Electronic Systems from Obsolescence and Failure

Mission-Critical Reliability: Protecting Electronic Systems from Obsolescence and Failure

Mission-critical systems are expected to perform flawlessly under harsh conditions, often for decades at a time. However, maintaining that level of reliability becomes a massive challenge when the electronic components at the heart of these systems begin to age.

When vital parts become obsolete or fail, the risks to your system’s longevity are often hidden in the smallest details. Specifically, two major hurdles stand in the way: the security of the parts themselves and the integrity of their solder joints.

The dual threat : Obsolescence and Counterfeits

The first major challenge is obsolescence. When manufacturers phase out older components, procurement teams are often forced into the high-risk market. This “grey market” is a breeding ground for unverified and counterfeit parts that can compromise an entire system. 

Retronix offers a safer path. By reclaiming authentic, high-value components from known good inventory, we refurbish them for reuse through specialist reballing and retinning services. This process bypasses the grey market entirely, providing a trusted source for even the hardest-to-find chips. If the devices are procured from an unknown source, Retronix can ensure certainty by putting every part through rigorous authenticity testing to the AS6171 standard, acting as a firewall against substandard devices.

Eliminate the risk of Tin Whiskers

The second hurdle involves the physical integrity of the components, specifically the risk of “tin whiskers.” It is known that lead-free components have a hidden danger for high-reliability applications: microscopic tin growths that can cause catastrophic short circuits.

To combat this, Retronix utilises a robotic hot solder dip process. This replaces pure tin terminations with a reliable tin-lead alloy, fully compliant with GEIA standards, ensuring superior long-term reliability.

For BGAs, we use a specialised laser process to attach new spheres with zero reflow cycles. This targeted laser application eliminates the heat and thermal stress typically placed on the component body during traditional repairs.

Engineering Reliability for the Long Term

Retronix does more than just manage obsolescence; we engineer reliability into every component. By aligning our entire quality management system to AS9100, the gold standard for aerospace and defence, Retronix provide the compliance and continuity that high-reliability organisations demand.

Don’t let your mission-critical systems fall victim to counterfeit parts or component failure. Secure your supply chain and ensure your electronics are built to last.

The video highlights the techniques, expertise and quality controls that make Retronix a trusted partner for electronics manufacturers worldwide. To explore how Retronix can benefit your organisation, email us at contact@retronix.com, or use the contact form – https://retronix.com/contact/