AC/DC Power Adapters - Desktop & Wall-Mount, and response to preventing silent changes in used components?

This explains our measures against so-called silent changes. At Unifive, we thoroughly manage risks related to global procurement.

In recent years, with the globalization of procurement, risks associated with "silent changes" have become apparent, particularly among major companies in the electronics industry. For example, there was an incident involving resin material used for DC plug parts, which had been silently replaced from brominated compounds to red phosphorus, resulting in migration and causing heat generation issues. In light of these incidents, our company is thoroughly managing risks related to global procurement.

• * "Silent change" refers to the unauthorized alteration of material composition by a supplier without the knowledge of the manufacturer.

Countermeasures

1. Verification through incoming inspections

For all purchased components (excluding some packaging materials), we conduct inspection of incoming shipment lots based on ANSI/ASQC Standard Z1.4. At the same time, we carry out content inspections of RoHS-specific hazardous substances using X-ray fluorescence equipment.

Accordingly, changes identifiable through visual inspection or endoscopic inspection, as well as changes in the six RoHS-restricted substances and Cu or P, can be detected during these inspections.

2. Countermeasures against issues undetectable during incoming inspections

Building trust relationships that allow verification up to second- and third-tier manufacturers beyond the primary manufacturer

Silent changes typically occur not at the stage of delivery, but at the material composition level. Therefore, we strive to build ongoing trust relationships that enable verification with less visible second- and third-tier manufacturers.

Case Studies

1. Flame retardant methods for plastics and troubles caused by flame retardants

In 2014, NITE (Independent Administrative Institution, National Institute of Technology and Evaluation) published a report on "Flame Retardant Methods for Plastics and Trouble Cases Caused by Flame Retardants." Around the same time, our company began independently investigating the flame retardants used in PBT resin (polybutylene terephthalate) in insulating sleeves for DC plug sections. At the request of a customer, we visited fields of second- and third-tier manufacturers to confirm the situation and worked to prevent silent changes.

Refining descriptions in specifications

To prevent silent changes, we have clearly specified not only restricted substances but also prohibited materials in the specifications to eliminate vague descriptions and communicate clearly with our production contractors. In areas where details cannot be described in the specifications, we require the submission of a separate certificate of guarantee.

2. Red phosphorus contamination

Regarding the recent increase in cases involving the contamination of red phosphorus in plastic resin flame retardants, we require each manufacturer to submit a "certificate of guarantee" stating that red phosphorus is not intentionally included and that, even if present, the concentration is under 100 ppm.

Strict communication of 4M changes

We conclude contracts with all manufacturers regarding 4M changes and require prior notification and approval for any necessary changes. All manufacturers that currently conduct business with us have entered into such contracts, and we do not do business with any company that cannot comply, for any reason.

As procurement globalizes, we are strengthening our risk management measures, managing supply chains and building trustworthy relationships with all manufacturers.