Independent electronics distributor Converge says it has begun a comprehensive initiative to achieve Independent Distributors of Electronics Association (IDEA) quality certifications for all its electronics distribution centers worldwide.

Converge's component quality engineers in the company's Singapore facility have already completed the rigorous IDEA inspector's certification exam.

Frank Cavallaro, CEO of Converge and IDEA board member, says the IDEA certifications complement the checks and balances already in place in the company's electronics supply chain services.

"As a global supply chain partner for technology-driven companies, we handle massive volumes of components from different design and manufacturing sources. Our business requires nonstop vigilance in screening parts for potential problems, whether it's intentional fraud in the form of counterfeit parts or substandard components," he says.

Counterfeiting is a growing problem in the global electronics industry. The problem is so severe that the U.S. and the European Union have recently proposed the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) to fight fraud in the global electronics supply chain.

"These industry wide initiatives are important," says Cavallaro. "But every company in the supply chain can help protect the system by going beyond the minimum standards for quality control," he says.