New counterfeit detection method used ATLANTA, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- A new testing method to detect counterfeit components is in operation with World Micro Inc., a U.S. distributor of electronic parts. The system involves "heat solvent" testing, which can reveal if a component's true markings have been "blacktopped," which means original markings have been covered and new markings added. The special heater and solvent process augments testing methods already in place at the Georgia company -- X-Ray, X-RF analysis and component solderability testing -- to identify counterfeit parts or parts that simply don't meet required specifications. "We are now able to penetrate blacktopped surfaces that may be thought impervious to testing and detection," said Gary Beckstedt, global director of quality for World Micro. But now, by completely immersing a suspect part for 45 minutes in a heated solvent specifically formulated to penetrate the latest urethane-type coatings, we're confident that no resurfaced component can escape our inspection process and find its way into the supply chain.