Although overall MOSFET lead times are decreasing, some industries are still facing long waits for integral components. Read on to learn how you can tackle MOSFET lead time challenges.
First things first. What is a MOSFET—and how does it work?
MOSFET, or Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor, is a semiconductor device primarily used for switching and amplification of electrical signals. Despite being nearly one hundred years old, a MOSFET is what allows our smartphones and computers to quickly process information. The MOSFET transistor is integral because it controls the load current that is passed with minimal input current via the power supply through to the component receiving power. MOSFETs are central components of electronics that incorporate a switching regulator to efficiently convert electrical power. Hence, MOSFETs are being increasingly utilized in everyday devices, and are now the most ubiquitous transistor in the market. In fact, a look at a list of A2 Global’s top 10 most in-demand parts almost always includes MOSFETs.
What is the current MOSFET market like?
Because MOSFETs are one of the most important types of power discrete components, the impact of any lapse in the market is amplified. Even prior to COVID-19, MOSFET production was tight. This is due to both the limitations surrounding 8-inch wafer production as well as fab capacity. Especially post-Covid, fab capacity was severely limited globally. This led most manufacturers to shift their capacity away from low-voltage to high-voltage MOSFETs to increase profit margins (as the high-voltage MOSFET is mainly used in automotive and industrial control markets). However, this has added to the limited availability of MOSFETs.
How to strategize around MOSFET lead times
As it currently stands, the market demand for MOSFETs is not driven by component types, but rather by applications. While we are seeing stabilization for most general-use items, demand is still high for automotive and medical applications—driving long lead times for these industries. It’s worth noting that the automotive industry’s woes are compounded by separate issues with microcontrollers.
While long lead times can be an inherent limitation, they are not the whole picture. There are a few key strategies that can be used to mitigate the impacts of lead times of various lengths, two of which you should start employing now:
1. Assess Your BOM List in Advance
A BOM list (bill of materials) is a crucial structure in production. A well-compiled BOM will function as a comprehensive list of all the raw materials, sub-assemblies, intermediate assemblies, sub-components, and parts needed to manufacture any given product. With the current instability of today’s market, it is essential to utilize your BOM both as a means of communication between your manufacturers and as a real resource for your organization. Additionally, within the past 6 months, manufacturers and customers alike are increasing their reliance on BOMs. This expansion of communication and planning has minimized detrimental effects on production.
2. Look for a Global Sourcing Partner
To further mitigate long MOSFET lead times, choose a strong partner with a global presence. Strategic access to the right global distribution network is critical to sourcing parts when you need them. Global partners bring strong regional relationships that help you leverage a broad range of suppliers in different manufacturing regions. These relationships offer deep insight into the quality and trustworthiness of suppliers. In addition to giving you access to inventory across the world, increased supply chain visibility from global partners ensures door-to-door tracking of your product.
In summary, while MOSFET lead times are easing, transistors for certain applications remain hard-to-find. To minimize your risk, seek out a partner to help you source parts from trusted suppliers across the globe. To further minimize disruption, use your BOM as both an internal and external tool to gain clearer communication with manufacturers and bolster advanced internal planning.
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