The growing challenge of automotive semiconductor obsolescence
Summary
• More working capital tied up in last-time-buy (LTB) stocks • More obsolescence-driven redesigns taking engineering resources away from new product designs With perfect market forecasts and ideal storage conditions, the extra costs of LTB component stocks are unwelcome but manageable. Black box sourcing through a tiered supply chain means that automotive manufacturers have become divorced from the components. Authorised shortage and aftermarket suppliers such as Rochester Electronics, can provide additional invaluable market trend data as well as a risk-free source of active and obsolete semiconductors. To provide a more proactive approach with guaranteed security of supply, Rochester Electronics is committed to an authorised purchase and transfer of semiconductor wafer and IP after discontinuation. Customers affected by discontinuations and who share their critical parts lists can impact this investment strategy and secure themselves future supply options.