EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS --------------------------------------------------- We have issued our report dated June 16, 2000, accompanying the financial statements and schedules included in the Kent Electronics Corporation Tax- Deferred Savings and Retirement Plan and Trust's Form 11-K for the year ended December 31, 1999. We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference of said report in the Registration Statement of Kent Electronics Corporation on Form S-8 (File No. 33-18527). GRANT THORNTON LLP Houston, Texas June 27, 2000