I had an inkling that there was a trade in counterfeit electronic components.  I have just now come across this video put together by the AAA Components Test Lab about how it is done.

Electronic Components Refurbishing Process

Refurbishing process of electronic components created by AAA Components Test Lab.

As a technician and an environmentalist this sort of stuff is really annoying!  I am all for the reuse of components if they are as reliable as new ones but looking at the substandard “refurbishment” process of these semiconductors makes me mad! Firstly, the process of “blacktopping” where the parts are given a new label is downright dishonest.  Secondly, where are the antistatic precautions?  The components are thrown in plastic buckets and plastic bags.  That is going to make the parts really unreliable and shorten their service life.