Key takeaway
Obsolescence is easier to manage while the asset still works and the technical knowledge can still be captured.
List the electronics that can stop production
Start with controllers, HMIs, interface boards, power modules, memory devices and custom assemblies that would stop the asset if unavailable.
Capture software and configuration
Project files, recipes, parameters, passwords, communication settings and firmware versions can be more important than the hardware itself.
Choose a pathway
Each asset may need a different plan: backup, software migration, spare strategy, reverse engineering, remanufacturing, redesign or full upgrade.
Prioritise by risk
Focus first on electronics with no spare, no backup, long downtime impact, repeated failure history or unique programmed devices.
The most valuable obsolescence action is often capturing knowledge before it is lost.