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The Connected Life: CES Highlights New Levels of Interconnectivity and Underscores Demand for Quality Electronic Components(Marketwire Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) HOUSTON, TX -- (Marketwire) -- 01/30/13 -- Smith & Associates, the largest independent distributor of electronic components, today announced its leadership and momentum in ensuring the highest quality components for the electronics, automotive, aerospace, medical and health fitness industries. Electronic components are at the forefront of today's industries, as highlighted at CES 2013 and the Detroit Automotive Show; underscoring that component quality is integral to consumer satisfaction and brand identity. Smith ensures authentic, top-quality electronics components to the world's leading manufacturers. CES2013 highlighted device multi-functionality and seamless interconnectivity. For example, a phone can be a camera, a glucose-meter, or a heart monitor; it can synch with a car's navigation and Bluetooth calling. Underlying device multi-functionality are cutting edge chips and sensor hubs, new Bluetooth standards, and advances in Wi-Fi. New device features are increasing semiconductor and electronics component penetration rates across industries. Multi-functionality and seamless connectivity supports users in their daily tasks, pushing device manufacturers to differentiate devices and their brand based on the level of electronic experience provided. Best in class relies on top quality electronic components. Through Smith's commitment and investment in SmithSecure quality framework and high-tech, in-house testing labs, Smith serves some of the fastest growing and most demanding industries in the world. Medical: The increased commoditization of and demand for medical electronics is driving strong growth trajectories. Recent research forecasts a six-fold increase for in-home, medical electronics monitoring devices. Medical manufacturers must ensure the best quality components in their products. Smith's IDEA-ICE 3000-certified quality inspectors and engineers, and backs its focus on quality by third-party certifications and industry affiliations, including: ISO 9001:2008 CCAP-101 ISO/IEC 17025 Automotive: Car manufacturers again showcased their latest models and features at both CES and the Detroit Auto Show. Electronics is central to product and brand differentiation for automotive manufacturers due to a focus on safety, engine performance, fuel-efficiency, driver-assisted functions, and on-board entertainment. Smith's quality assurance certifications support automotive manufacturers by ensuring that components received are reliable, authentic, and tested to the highest quality standards. Aerospace: Counterfeit components are a threat to any supply chain, but especially for electronic equipment used in military combat situations or in commercial planes. In 2012, Smith was AS9120 certified, recognizing Smith's high standards for traceability and control of records, and its ability to evidence conformance to the aerospace industry's stringent security and dependability needs. Smith is a voting member of the SAE's G-19 Counterfeit Electronic Parts Committee working with the government, vendors, and other distributors to establish counterfeit mitigation in the electronics industry. Smith's Quality Assurance Smith Secure Framework incorporates real-world expertise with industry best practices to provide leading quality services, including: counterfeit detection, visual inspection, vendor screening, and internal training. SmithSecure is a unique quality program that provides customers with the highest level of quality and reliability in electronic component sourcing. For more information on Smith and Associates' insights from CES, see: http://www.smithweb.com/en/market-blog/ For more information on Smith and Associates' quality initiatives, see: http://www.smithweb.com/en/quality#.UPtTfuii2W4 About Smith & Associates Founded in Houston in 1984, Smith & Associates is a leader in the independent distribution of semiconductors and electronic components to electronics and high-tech manufacturers. Smith offers shortage sourcing for commodity and obsolete parts, innovative purchasing and inventory management solutions, redistribution of excess inventory, and component stocking for warranty and repair programs. A privately held company, Smith & Associates employs more than 350 people worldwide, with annual revenue in excess of US $500 million. Smith's regional hubs in Houston, Hong Kong, and Amsterdam are ISO certified and IDEA compliant. In addition, sales and purchasing offices are located in Silicon Valley, Barcelona, Guadalajara, New York, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, and Denver. For more information, see http://www.smithweb.com/ or to reach a Smith representative 24 hours a day, please call: 1.800.HOUSTON or +1 713.430.3000. For more information, contact: Mark Bollinger Smith & Associates V.P. of Marketing +1 713.430.3000 Email Contact Ashley Wilkinson BOCA Communications + 1 415.738.7718 x4 Email Contact Source: Smith & Associates |