Circuits Assembly Online Magazine - ECA Order Index Continued Growth in April

The monthly order index compiled by the Electronic Components, Assemblies & Materials Association (ECA, Arlington, VA) continued its upward trend in April, marking the ninth month in a row in which the 12-month moving average has risen.

ECA's index is consistent with other recent reports from industries that rely on electronic components. According to the Federal Reserve Board, U.S. electronics and computer production increased 1.1% between February and March; the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) reports that March sales rose 4.4% from February to March; and market-research firm IDC predicts that sales of LCD panels will grow by 56% this year, reaching $37 billion.

Bob Willis, ECA president, cites the recent success of the CARTS and EDS trade shows, as well as strong advance registration for the upcoming ECTC event, as additional signs of industry resurgence.

"Companies tend to provide funding for continuing education, professional networking and technical exchange when they perceive that times are good and getting better," said Willis.

The ECA represents manufacturers and producers of passive and active electronic components, component arrays and assemblies, and materials and support services. It is a sector of the Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA), comprising more than 2,100 members that represent 80% of the $430 billion U.S. electronics industry.