With the RoHS Directive looming ever closer, a survey by Farnell InOne suggests that the Internet will be crucial for information, news and legislation updates.
After compiling 3,623 responses to its survey, the distributor said that 94 per cent of companies will rely on the Internet for RoHS information.
"The study also reveals that online technical advice is a priority amongst design engineers, production engineers and purchasing agents with 90 per cent of respondents stating this as one of their top concerns," said Farnell.
Other critical factors include access to written declarations of RoHS compliance, and information to allow cross-referencing between compliant and non-compliant products.
RoHS evangelist Gary Nevison, head of product market strategy at Farnell InOne, said: "The research highlights that accurate lead time information is also important for companies looking to design-in compliant products ahead of the deadline... Only distributors that can get RoHS products to market quickly can truly support engineers through the changing legislation."
The survey also said that 45 per cent of firms are planning to use RoHS-compliant product as "as soon as possible", while another 31 per cent will become RoHS compliant in July 2006, when the legislation goes live.
www.farnellinone.com
See also: Electronics Weekly's RoHS Directive and UK RoHS regulation, a roundup of content related to the RoHS Directive.