Chip maker Texas Instruments who make processors used in DLP projectors is predicting shortages after sustaining “substantial” damage to one of its major manufacturing plants near Tokyo in last week’s earthquake.In a statement issued a short while ago the Company said that their Miho plant, which produces mostly analog chips but also makes digital light processing technology used in televisions and projectors, won’t return to full production until mid-July.
.Texas Instruments said that they are currently shifting production of silicon wafers to other plants.
TI said that full shipments of their DLP processors will resume in September. That plan could be delayed if power is interrupted or other complications ensue. Japan began rolling blackouts to conserve power Monday as it tried desperately to stabilise nuclear reactors at risk of meltdown in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami.
Texas Instruments said the building is sound but warned that it will take about three weeks to repair systems for delivering chemicals and other supplies. Goods under production were damaged, although the company said it could salvage about 40 percent.
