Inventory's bumpy road to smooth somewhat this year

摘要

Component inventory in 2010 saw two- to three-times-longer-than-normal leadtimes. Component suppliers quickly and severely ratcheted back production in late 2008 in response to the recession; 2010 then came roaring back with unexpected demand, even as the macro-economy was still struggling. Manufacturers reduced inventory, especially passives, as they first turned on their lines for their high-margin components.