We believe the following critical accounting poli- cies and estimates affect the significant estimates and judgments we use in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements, and may involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity than others. 

## Revenue Recognition 

Revenue is recognized when there is persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists, when delivery has occurred, when our price to the buyer is fixed or determinable and when collectibility of the receivable is reasonably assured. These elements are met when title to the products is passed to the buyers, which is generally when our prod- uct is shipped to both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and electronics component distributors. 

We reduce revenue in the period of sale for estimates of product returns, distributor price adjustments and other allowances, the majority of which are related to our North American operations. Our reserve estimates are based upon historical data as well as projections of revenues, distributor inventories, price adjustments, average selling prices and market conditions. Actual returns and adjustments could be significantly differ- ent from our estimates and provisions, resulting in an adjustment to revenues. 

## Inventory Reserves 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined principally by the first-in, first-out method. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our inventory, both finished goods and raw material, for obsolescence and slow-moving items. This evalua- tion includes analysis of sales levels, sales projections, and purchases by item, as well as raw material usage related to our manufacturing facilities. Based upon this analysis, as well as an inventory aging analysis, we accrue a reserve for obsolete and slow-moving inventory. If future demand or market conditions are different than our current estimates, an inventory adjustment may be required, and would be reflected in cost of goods sold in the period the revision is made. 

## Accounting for Income Taxes 

As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our income taxes in each of the tax jurisdictions in which we operate. This process involves using an asset and liability approach whereby deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for differences in the financial reporting bases and tax bases of the Company’s assets and liabilities. Significant management judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities. Management continually evaluates its deferred tax asset as to whether it is likely that the deferred tax assets will be realized. If management ever determined that its deferred tax asset was not likely to be realized, a write-down of the asset would be required and would be reflected as an expense in the accompanying period. 

## Allowance for Doubtful Accounts 

Management evaluates the collectability of our accounts receivable based upon a combination of factors, includ- ing the current business environment and historical experience. If we are aware of a customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations to us, we record an allow- ance to reduce the receivable to the amount we reason- ably believe we will be able to collect from the customer. For all other customers, we record an allowance based upon the amount of time the receivables are past due. If actual accounts receivable collections differ from these estimates, an adjustment to the allowance may be neces- sary with a resulting effect on operating expense. 

