According to industry and market survey institutions manufacturers of camera phones, digital TVs, and projectors already began experiencing shortage in supply of key parts and components such as charge coupled devices (CCDs), LCDs, PDP panels, and screens. Supply of razor diodes for DVD recorders and burners, as well as flexible PCBs for mobile phones and cameras are unstable as well.

Industry observers anticipate that shortage in supply of core components will hit other appliances next year, as their makers are slow in beefing up production capabilities.

Until July, it took four weeks in supplying NAND flash memories, but the delivery period was extended to as long as 18 weeks in September, according to iSupply, a market survey firm. NAND flash memory suppliers, in particular, began proportionately allocating memories to purchasers since last month.

The delivery period of transistors extended from six weeks in August to 10 weeks starting this month, while delivery period for passive components such as aluminum capacitors and oscillators is extending.

"Most parts and components makers have been less enthusiastic about expanding production lines due to slow sales during past years and predicted cycle of oversupply slated for 2006, said an expert. Supply of components, therefore, will possibly be in severe shortage next year though their makers immediately start to augment production capacities."