Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1533339
44 PCB007 MAGAZINE I MARCH 2025 hidden functionalities into microelectronic components, attackers could potentially dis- able power grids, water systems, and air traf- fic control systems, or disrupt communication networks during crises. ese alarming pos- sibilities highlight the urgent need for robust measures to ensure that only trusted, secure microelectronics are deployed across our criti- cal infrastructures. Malicious actors are targeting any weak link they can find, or they create opportunities to insert harmful code or hardware compo- nents during the manufacturing process. Such embedded threats can serve as covert back- doors, allowing hostile entities to infiltrate crit- ical systems, exfiltrate sensitive data, or even disrupt vital services at a moment's notice. Aer years of warnings, policymakers in Washington finally confronted the uncomfort- able but inescapable truth that microelectron- ics sourced from adversaries present a national security risk. If those microelectronics exist in key infrastructure, they need to be removed, and future systems must be built with trusted alternative sources. Where are the trusted sources? ey are in the U.S., albeit dimin- ished, as much of our electronics manufactur- ing has been outsourced to Asia over the past three decades. In addition to removing Chi- nese content, Congress also needs to support American man- ufacturing of microelectronics, including printed circuit boards and IC substrates, to realize the promise of the CHIPS Act and support the entire technology stack required for electronic sys- tem functionality in the U.S. An unexamined global micro- electronics supply chain exposes our essential systems to poten- tial exploitation. Every company buying components needs to look deep into their supply chain to be sure they have not unwittingly created an opportunity for our adversaries. For the sake of our national and economic security, organizations like the Printed Cir- cuit Board Association of America (PCBAA) will continue to press the government to adopt supply chain options that prioritize domestic manufacturing to make microelectronics we can trust. If you are a manufacturer, assembler, or materials provider, please join us and help rein- vigorate the domestic PCB industry by edu- cating, advocating, and supporting legislation that emphasizes the need to reshore manufac- turing and restore a capacity we've seen erode over the last three decades. Please visit pcbaa. org for information on how to join our orga- nization and our efforts to strengthen the U.S. PCB market. PCB007 References 1. "Congress funds removal of Chinese telecom gear as feds probe home routers risks," The Washington Post, Dec. 19, 2024. Shane Whiteside is president and CEO of Summit Interconnect and current chair of the Printed Circuit Board Association of America. To read past columns, click here.