Product life cycle information management in the electronics supply chain

Information availability and data transparency are key requirements from manufacturers when supporting products throughout the life cycle, for example, when implementing product service systems. The application of embedded wireless technologies into printed circuit boards can help by bridging current knowledge gaps in order to minimise both technical and financial risk through: reduced product downtime, improved quality of tracking, and enhanced end-of-life decision making. The application of an embedded radio frequency identification device into printed circuit boards for life cycle monitoring of electronic products to support product service systems is discussed in this article.