This component shortage has led to many product redesigns to fit the available components. These shortages have had a major impact on the production of printed circuit boards as the industry is experiencing shortages in both materials and components. In response, some industries have phased out some older components and incorporated their functionality into newer standard equipment. This can affect OEMs making older products that no longer have access to the older parts they need. Failure to prepare for component shortages can wreak havoc on a company's PCB board development program. As a result, circuit board companies may need to redesign their PCBs to accommodate alternative components available, which can add significant time and cost to the product. While no one can fully predict this pandemic-affected shortage, partnering with specialized PCB fabrication can help customers plan and adjust for such shortages. Most companies are aware of material fluctuations caused by component life cycles or technology refreshes. So knowing how to go about finding the resources you need to get the job done, and to prevent that, focusing on replacement components and buying in bulk can help offset the unforeseen.

While global shortages are severe right now, it is important to know that there will always be shortages of certain printed circuit board assemblies somewhere. Knowing how to address these shortages in printed circuit board manufacturing and assembly can help minimize the negative impact on production.