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Home > Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Prime Distribut
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Here you'll find answers to the most common questions we receive at Prime Distributing Co.
Still can't find what you're looking for? Our expert sales team is eager to assist you and can be reached at 1-800-442-4008, 8AM - 5PM CST Monday through Friday.
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Why would I use Prime as supplier of sockets when I might be able to purchase direct from the manufacturer?
Answer: Prime is a wholesaler of product and franchised by most of our lines. This allows Prime to purchase at discounted prices, and the savings is passed onto our customers. A manufacturer generally quotes standard resale pricing, especially those which provide distribution outlets. Also, Prime Distributing is usually able to provide lower pricing as well as faster responses due to the high degree of interaction and purchase volume with several major manufacturers. Throughout the U.S., only Prime offers a variety of Test and Failure Analysis socket choices. If one manufacturer cannot provide product in the requested time frame or price, there may be another. Just ask.
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My board is laid out for a socket from one manufacturer, why won't a socket work from a different manufacturer?
Answer: Each socket manufacturer utilizes a unique and usually patented contact design. If the boards have already been designed, the socket designated for the board will require a specific footprint on the board; therefore, any other manufacturer's design will probably not work. The solution is either to use an Adapter, or re-design your board.
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| 3 |
I want to test a device, but I don't know the part number of the right socket.
Answer: The first question Prime technical people will ask is: What is your Application? To obtain the correct part solution for the customer, it is critical to identify the purpose of the socket or interconnect.
Typical applications include:
Test Burn-In/Test Failure Analysis Production
Sometimes, the lid can be substituted when the socket is used for multiple applications. A Test lid for a socket; for example; might be replaceable with an F/A lid from the same manufacturer.
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Why do I have to provide a drawing every time I ask for a socket?
Answer: Every manufacturer requires a drawing to accompany customer requests. Even if the part were purchased recently, modifications may have been made since then, which would require approval by end-user.
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If I don't know the part number for the socket I need, what information is needed to get pricing information?
Answer: Before conducting any research, we must know the application, type of device (BGA), number of leads or I/O's and the pitch.
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| 6 |
My components are becoming obsolete and some of my boards have design errors. How can I avoid re-spinning my boards?
Answer: Prime offers manufacturers for adapters that can convert one device type to another (thru-hole to SMT), or one pin pattern to another. Some solutions to design-errors, offered by Prime are called, "Correct-a Chip". Ask about our popular SMT Feet, for SMT package emulation.
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| 7 |
I am using a Test handler and some or my "pogo" pins are wearing out. Can you help?
Answer: Prime offers spring probe pins and receptacles for most handlers. Tell us the handler manufacturer and the pogo pin - manufacturer and part number being used.
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My sockets are wearing out and they are expensive to replace. Is there an alternative to buying replacement sockets?
Answer: Prime offers receptacles for almost every type of socket. All we need is the name of the socket manufacturer, number of pins and the pin type. Prime recommends purchase of receptacles when sockets are used for multiple tests and are wired to the test board.
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Why would I use Prime as my supplier when other distributors sell the same product?
Answer: It's up to the customer to decide what's important. If a customer wants only a rock-bottom price, it is not cost-effective for a distributor to take time to visit, explain product use and benefits, or spend much time on the account. On the other hand, Prime tries hard to find ways to help the customer get the most value for his money. Customer satisfaction is important. At Prime, our customers seem to value their solid, caring relationships with our knowledgeable staff. Perhaps it's the smile on the phone. It is probably fair to say that Service - genuine, caring service, is the main reason most customers choose Prime.
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| 10 |
My company insists I get the cheapest price on what I buy. Can you meet the competition?
Answer: Sometimes, we can. Always give Prime your target price as well as target delivery date. Most manufacturers are willing to meet competition, but they ask the same questions as we do. "What is your target price, how many do you need now, and is this an on-going requirement?" If you are willing to work with us, you might get the price you want. Most manufacturers are trying to work around rising costs for raw materials, especially petroleum-based products, plus they have the same issue as you of the rising cost of freight. Many of our suppliers no longer maintain the heavy stock of raw materials they used to. At Prime, we continually search for value just as you. It is important to us that you are pleased with your choice of products from Prime and that you'll want to return for more. Just paying a low, low price may not include product or service satisfaction.
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| 11 |
I want to buy just one or two chemical items, but minimum is a case. How can I avoid the case-buy?
Answer: Really, you can't. Most chemicals have a shelf life with a date code. When products have date codes, they are usually sold in a bundle, and they can't ordinarily be returned. Also, if the item is considered, "Hazardous Material", shipping cost are extremely high. This is why buying the case may be more economical in the long run. Consider placing an order for the case but schedule out the shipping of the product. Scheduled orders have 6-month limit, and a $50 minimum per release, but it might be one way to avoid receiving the whole case at one time.
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I am buying a soldering station, why do I need to buy additional tips?
Answer: Soldering tips have limited usage. With no-lead solder, the tip life seems to be shorter. If the operator does not clean and wet the tip frequently to prevent oxidation, the tip will wear faster than anticipated.
Also, some stations do not include tips. It helps to check if the tip is included, and to confirm that the one you get is what you really need. If the operator is using an incorrect tip for the application, the results may not be satisfactory. It is easier to buy extra tips in the beginning, than to scramble for new ones, right ones, at the last minute, (plus your order will need to meet minimum buy). Prime sells several tips at the one-piece level, but you will save money if you buy in volume. When you consider the high cost of shipping, fewer shipments with higher volume will save even more money.
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| 13 |
I have a request for ESD mats cut to size. What details do you need before I place the order?
Answer: When tablemats are requested, we always ask about the application. If you are soldering, consider using rubber mats which are more expensive than 3-layer vinyl, (which is still a good value), but solder will not melt a hole in the rubber mat. Prime does not offer or recommend the low-cost homogenous table mats. Prime also sells and highly recommends the Wearever. It is an excellent tablemat as well as floor mat, which lasts indefinitely and can even be washed or hosed off to clean. The mat size depends on the size of the workspace. The mat will include two snaps, installed. The customer is responsible for providing the accurate size requirements of the mat size, location of snaps, and correct size of snaps to coordinate with wristbands.
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Prime sells benches. Why does the ordering process seem complicated?
Answer: Workbenches come in many designs - some are freestanding; some are modular (interlocking with varied pieces that fit together). Consider how the bench will be used. The shelves may need to handle a heavy equipment load. Ask yourself, what are the requirements for wiring, for shelves, drawers (with or without locks), bin-holding racks, and does it need ESD laminate? These are a few of the questions our salesperson will ask, and why it helps to have done some investigation before picking up the phone to order.
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