How To Obtain Free Integrated Circuit Samples A Comprehensive Guide

Oct. 11, 2025, 1:25 p.m.

Free integrated circuit (IC) samples represent an opportunity for electronics enthusiasts, students, and professionals to access components for testing and evaluation without financial commitment. This guide explores the various programs and methods available for obtaining free IC samples, along with important eligibility requirements and best practices for successful requests.

Understanding Free IC Sample Programs

Integrated circuit manufacturers offer free samples as a marketing strategy to encourage product adoption and testing. These programs serve multiple purposes: allowing engineers to evaluate components before purchasing in bulk, supporting educational initiatives, and fostering innovation in the electronics community. The availability of free samples varies significantly between manufacturers, with some maintaining comprehensive formal programs while others provide samples through direct contact with sales representatives.

Mini-Circuits operates one of the most structured free sample programs for RF components. Their EZ Sample program offers over 1300 different surface mount parts for free to support product validation efforts. Participants must register for an account or sign in to place requests online, and samples are shipped free of charge to over 200 countries globally. The program includes specific limitations: a maximum of 5 sample requests within any 30-day period and only 1 request for the same part within any 30-day period.

Many other semiconductor companies provide free samples through various channels, though their programs may be less formally structured. Some companies require business accounts or have specific eligibility requirements, while others are more accessible to hobbyists and students. Understanding these differences is crucial when planning sample requests.

Official Manufacturer Sample Programs

Several manufacturers maintain dedicated sample request systems on their websites, providing a streamlined process for obtaining components.

Mini-Circuits EZ Sample

Mini-Circuits' EZ Sample program stands out as one of the most accessible and well-structured free sample offerings in the electronics industry. The program features:

Over 1300 RF component models available for sampling
Free international shipping to more than 200 countries
An organized web interface allowing users to browse eligible models by product category
Account registration requirement for sample submission

The program includes detailed frequently asked questions addressing common concerns about product eligibility, request submission procedures, request limitations, shipment tracking, delivery timeframes, expedited shipping options, freight collect shipping possibilities, technical support contacts, and terms of service.

Other Formal Sample Programs

While Mini-Circuits has a comprehensive program, other manufacturers may offer free samples through different mechanisms:

STMicroelectronics provides samples but typically charges shipping costs (approximately $7 to Australia via DHL non-tracked)
NXP offers free "priority" shipping options when available, using FedEx Express
Renesas fulfills sample requests for both inexpensive and more expensive components, with delivery typically within a week
Micron ships samples free via USPS Priority Mail, though delivery takes one month or longer
TE Connectivity (formerly TE Passives) sends multiple orders including more expensive parts quickly via FedEx Express

Company-Specific Sample Request Experiences

Based on user experiences shared across various platforms, the process for obtaining free samples differs significantly between manufacturers:

Semiconductor and Microcontroller Suppliers

Zilog appears to be accessible for sample requests, requiring registration and completion of a sample request form. The company does not require corporate email addresses and covers shipping costs, delivering via FedEx 2nd Day Air.

Microchip receives positive reviews for their sample program, though they have specific email requirements and do not accept common providers like Gmail. Users report frequent ordering without follow-up communications, with shipments sent via DHL WPX.

Nexperia ICs require a different approach—users must contact the sales office directly via email with project details. This method reportedly results in quick responses and deliveries.

Passive Component Suppliers

For passive components such as diodes, capacitors, resistors, and transformers, experiences vary:

Vishay allows direct contact with sales representatives who provide parts quickly and completely free of charge
Würth Elektronik responds quickly, with sales representatives often contacting requestors the following day to discuss projects
Bivar does not provide samples and directs users to purchase components
Lite-On and SamTec have shown limited responsiveness to sample requests
Mill-Max sends samples via UPS and has even included additional items like pocket magnifiers

Connector and Specialty Component Suppliers

For connectors and specialized components:

Amphenol ICC ships connectors using UPS Saver with relatively quick turnaround times
TE Connectivity handles multiple orders with expensive components efficiently via FedEx Express
Keystone electronics forwards sample requests to distributors who may or may not follow up
Norcomp requires a shipping account for sample requests
Desco/Charleswater restricts sample distribution to "professional engineers" only

Eligibility Requirements and User Categories

Manufacturers typically categorize potential sample recipients into three main groups, each with different eligibility requirements:

Industry Professionals

Companies often prioritize industry professionals who may incorporate samples into production designs, potentially leading to bulk purchases. Some manufacturers exclusively serve this professional market, making their samples inaccessible to hobbyists and students. These programs aim to foster relationships that could result in large-scale orders.

Students

Many manufacturers maintain programs specifically for students, often requiring verification through educational email addresses (.edu domains). When requesting samples as a student, using both a school email address and including the institution's name in the "Company" field typically strengthens the request. Student-focused programs tend to have more relaxed requirements than those aimed at industry professionals.

General Public

Some manufacturers provide samples to anyone who requests them, though these programs are becoming increasingly rare due to abuse concerns. Companies that maintain open-access sample programs often implement stricter request limits and monitoring to prevent misuse.

Best Practices for Requesting Free IC Samples

Based on shared experiences and manufacturer policies, several best practices emerge for successful sample requests:

Ethical Considerations

Only request samples you genuinely need for projects or evaluation
Order a few extra components for backup purposes rather than excessive quantities
Never resell free samples, as this has led some companies like Texas Instruments to discontinue student sample programs
Respect the purpose of the samples—to evaluate components for potential use, not for personal profit

Request Strategy

Research manufacturer policies before submitting requests
For companies without online forms, craft concise emails explaining your project needs
Be prepared to provide details about intended use when contacted by manufacturer representatives
Avoid requesting high quantities of expensive components that could be perceived as potentially for resale
Allow sufficient time for processing, as some manufacturers take several weeks to fulfill requests

Communication Follow-up

Some manufacturers may contact requestors by phone to discuss projects
Be prepared to answer questions about your intended application
Respond promptly to any follow-up communications
Note that some manufacturers will forward your request to their distributors

Conclusion

Obtaining free IC samples requires understanding manufacturer policies, adhering to ethical guidelines, and following proper request procedures. While programs like Mini-Circuits' EZ Sample offer straightforward online access to thousands of components, many manufacturers require direct contact or have specific eligibility requirements. Students should leverage educational email addresses, while professionals may need to provide company verification. Regardless of category, respecting the purpose of sample programs—component evaluation rather than profit—helps ensure these valuable resources remain available to the electronics community. By following best practices and understanding manufacturer expectations, hobbyists, students, and professionals can successfully access components for their projects while maintaining positive relationships with suppliers.