July 3^rd, 2026

Update on IC Controller Availability and Potential Impact on TFT & Mono LCD Display Lead Times

We would like to inform you of a situation currently affecting the entire display IC controller market, which may impact the lead times of certain LCD and TFT display modules.

Our partner Winstar has informed us that the leading IC controller manufacturers, Sitronix and Ilitek, are currently allocating integrated circuits due to limited manufacturing capacity. As a result, the monthly allocations are insufficient to meet overall market demand, and the lead times for several components have increased significantly.

This situation particularly affects a number of controllers used in TFT displays. In some cases, procurement lead times may reach approximately 30 weeks, potentially impacting existing orders, whose delivery dates may need to be revised or postponed.

One of the main reasons behind this shortage is TSMC's reallocation of manufacturing capacity toward Artificial Intelligence-related applications, resulting in reduced availability of certain Sitronix controllers.

In addition:

      •   some controllers have been declared End of Life (EOL) and are already being replaced by newer solutions;
      •   other non-EOL controllers continue to be subject to strict allocation and limited availability;
      •   Winstar is currently qualifying alternative controllers manufactured by different wafer fabs to ensure supply continuity as
          soon as the validation process is completed.

At present, TFT displays are the product category most affected by this situation, with lead times that may extend to approximately 30 weeks. The situation for STN displays remains comparatively more stable, although lead times are still longer than usual.

Winstar continues to search the market for available controller ICs. However, the quantities available are extremely limited and, in many cases, the components offered do not meet the quality and traceability standards required for industrial applications. For this reason, components sourced through unqualified channels will not be used.

At the same time, Winstar's management is negotiating directly with Sitronix to secure higher production allocations, while continuing the qualification of alternative controllers for the display models most affected by the shortage.

Unfortunately, under the current circumstances, delivery delays are difficult to avoid for both new orders and certain existing orders. FIRST Components remains in constant contact with Winstar to closely monitor developments on a daily basis and minimize the impact on our customers' supply chain.

We will continue to keep you informed and provide timely updates as soon as new information becomes available regarding lead times and the availability of alternative solutions.

Thank you for your understanding and continued cooperation. Should you require any further information or clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Kind regards,

FIRST Components srl