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/