Recent news from the Chinese-language newspapers.
Dell sends management team to Taiwan to address defective thermal module issue, say sources
Sources indicated that around NT$100 million worth of Pxxx3 thermal modules, produced for Dell desktop PCs and sourced from Foxconn Electronics subsidiary Foxconn Precision Components, are defective. Dell has sent a crisis management team to Taiwan to solve the problem. Dell in Singapore was contacted for comment but had not responded by time of publication. [DigiTimes]
Compal: LCD panel demand will fall short of supply by over 10% in 1Q 2005, prices to stabilize from August 2005
Compal Electronics chairperson Ray Chen stated that capacity among panel makers exceeds demand by 5-8%, and the percentage will climb further through 1Q 2005. However, demand should pick up from August next year. [UDN, Nov 12]
CMO: Full capacity at 5G plant delayed to 1Q 2005
TFT-LCD panel maker Chi Mei Optoelectronics (CMO) indicated that yields at its 5G line are currently better than 85%, with monthly capacity at 70k. CMO expects to reach full capacity in 1Q 2005 and has reaffirmed its conservative outlook for its 7.5G expansion plans. [DigiTimes]
WSC projects new handset antenna orders will boost 2005 revenues
Wanshih Electronic Company (WSC) stated the company landed handset-related antenna orders from 12 Taiwan and four China-based handset makers. WSC projects revenues will grow more than 20% on-year in 2005. [DigiTimes]
Taiwan market: Projector makers express concern over Optoma's aggressive pricing
Optoma recently launched its PE738 projector at NT$29.9K. Epson stated that it would not match the price for at least six months. BenQ stated it will observe the market situation, but does not expect to ship projectors under NT$30k until next year. [DigiTimes]
Taiwan market: Tecom to distribute three Innostream-branded phones by year-end
Tecom reports that the market share of Innostream-branded phones grew from 4.8% in August to 9.2% in September. Tecom will distribute three more Innostream handsets by year-end, including the i3000, which is equipped with a megapixel camera. [DigiTimes]
Article edited by Michael McManus
