3E Technology

What is 3E Technology?

3E Technology is a parts sourcing platform for electronic, industrial, mechanical, and hard-to-find components. We index 105,000+ vetted suppliers — manufacturers, authorized distributors, brokers, and surplus dealers — and run AI deep research on every search to find sources that aren't on conventional parts search engines. Founded in 1987 as an international parts broker, now an AI-powered sourcing platform.

How does 3E find parts and suppliers?

Every search queries three sources at once: nearly 40 years of accumulated sourcing relationships, supplier-submitted catalogs, and live AI deep research that investigates manufacturer sites, distributor catalogs, and broker networks for matches. Research is automated, verification is human. Over 1,000 companies are updated, enriched, or added every day.

What kinds of parts can I source through 3E?

Electronic components (semiconductors, passives, connectors, displays), industrial parts (sensors, motors, hydraulics, automation), mechanical components, obsolete and end-of-life parts, MIL-spec and aerospace-grade components, surplus inventory, and hard-to-find or discontinued items. Search by part number, manufacturer brand, company name, or category.

How is 3E different from Octopart, FindChips, ThomasNet, or SiliconExpert?

Octopart and FindChips show real-time stock and pricing from a curated list of distributors. ThomasNet lists self-registered industrial suppliers. SiliconExpert focuses on semiconductor lifecycle data. 3E covers all 105,000+ companies including brokers, surplus dealers, and specialty distributors that don't appear on those platforms, and our deep research system keeps hunting for new sources after you search. Different tools for different problems — use whichever fits your sourcing need.

Does 3E cost money to use?

Searching, browsing, and receiving new-supplier notifications are free, forever. Every account gets 5 free unlocks per month to reveal supplier contact details. Beyond that, credit packs start at $19 (10 unlocks) or unlimited subscriptions are $49/month ($490/year). Listing your company as a supplier is also free.

Is 3E suitable for aerospace, defense, or ITAR-controlled sourcing?

Yes. The catalog includes AS9100-certified, MIL-spec, and ITAR-registered suppliers across aerospace, defense, and government contracting. Search filters and supplier tags surface authorized and certified sources. We recommend confirming certifications directly with each supplier before contract awards.

What happens after I search — do I have to keep checking back?

No. Once you search, our AI deep research system keeps hunting in the background — for hours, days, weeks, or months. When a new verified supplier appears for any of your past searches, we email you. Your searches never expire, so a match six months from now still reaches you. No spam, no newsletters, just new suppliers.