Maxim/Dallas can't be faulted for there very progressive sample policy. Also some distributers like DIGIKEY/MOUSER are finally stocking a wide variety of parts for small volume purchase.

Also a lot of manufacturers are now distributing their samples or low cost evaluation products using the above two distributers.

I have found that if you work in areas that are targeted as part of the buzz in the "business plan" you can get great attention from the Avnet/Arrow type of distributer, regardless of your current volume. A "design win" in an area which a manufacturer targets and encourages his distributers to service, is a valuable commodity for the sales group.

regards,
p