root@sbcs.sunysb.edu (SBCS Systems Staff) (04/15/88)
I'm looking for some sort of online parts quotation service that I can call using a modem to get current pricing/availability on common ttl/cmos/ecl/uP parts. What I would like is something like Schweber's new service, but at a lower rate than their current fee of $500/10 hrs time. After all, by not calling their sales force I'm not using up expensive people time, so why should I pay $50/hr for something that is normally free anyways? I'm not interested in the D.A.T.A. aspects of the Schweber service. Comments? Rick Spanbauer SUNY/Stony Brook
COHEN@VENERA.ISI.EDU (Danny Cohen) (04/16/88)
Rick,
The FAST project at ISI provides what you want, and more.
FAST provides a free quotation and ordering service for electronic parts
by e-mail (e.g., over the Internet).
FAST is a DARPA sponsored broker for standard electronic components.
It is currently servicing the university and research communities, the
government, and OEMs. FAST's mission is to develop an actual working
model of a highly automated broker.
FAST uses computer-to-computer links with major electronics parts
distributors,including Hamilton-Avnet, Marshall, and Arrow who provide
online price and delivery information about their nationwide
inventories.
FAST currently offers:
- multiple quotations, usually within 24 hours
- competitive pricing for small quantity orders and negotiated prices
for production quantities
- delivery of orders within 72 hours for items available from vendor stock
- limited service for sourcing non-standard, hard to find components
- scheduled deliveries
FAST (unlike MOSIS) asks you to pay for the actual parts that you get.
Quotations are free, but in order to place an order (and get parts
delivered) you must have some arrangements to cover the cost of the parts.
Note that the use of FAST is free - no mark up or service fee is involved.
Parts are supplied at cost.
For more information about the FAST service or for instructions on how to
become a user, please send a message to FAST@ISI.EDU or call Anna-Lena Neches
or Paula Caruso at 213-822-1511.
Danny
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