In a bit of Etherkit news, we've encountered a supply chain issue that could put a squeeze on Si5351A Breakout Board with TCXO reference oscillator manufacturing. Late last year, there was a fire at the factory that manufactures many different oscillators, including the Abracon product that is used in the Etherkit Si5351A Breakout Board.

On Oct. 20, Abracon became aware of a fire at the Asahi Kasei Microsystem (AKM) semiconductor factory in Nobeoka, Miyazaki prefecture, Japan. Products produced at this factory are used in many Abracon TCXO oscillator products. At this time, there is limited information on the actual effect the fire will have on production and supply.

I have been able to acquire small quantities of the TCXO used in the breakout board until my most recent attempt. That particular part now is out of stock at all of my usual distributors, and is only available at one distributor but at a substantial markup from the usual price.

As of now, I'm considering the qualification of an alternate TCXO, but that will take some time to do. It may be necessary if Abracon cannot bring production back online in the near future, but I'm hoping they can source alternate manufacturers as is stated in the press release above. In the mean time, there may be a period where the Si5351A Breakout Board with TCXO is out of stock. The breakout board with crystal oscillator is not affected by this and will continue to be in stock.