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AI demand triggers massive PCB shortage for PC makers as order books full until 2030 — lead times stretch to 30 months as material costs surge 12x

TL;DR

The AI industry continues to gobble up manufacturing resources that were once dedicated to serving PC, smart device, and gadget makers. Inevitably, the PCB industry has started to feel its effects. The AI industry continues to gobble up manufacturing resources that were once dedicated to serving PC, smart device, and gadget makers. Inevitably, the PCB industry has started to feel its effects.

Nauti's Take

Small teams should verify board, GPU, and replacement-part availability for the next 12 to 18 months before committing to an AI hardware project. The reported 30-month lead times and twelvefold material-cost increase are not independently confirmed yet, so supplier alternatives and longer buffers belong in the plan.

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