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Microsoft's Surface tablet suffers from low yields, report says
According to Digitimes, Microsoft is working with a "second-tier" chassis supplier that's having some trouble producing parts at the rate Microsoft wants.
The VaporMg case.
(Credit: Josh Lowensohn/CNET)Microsoft's Surface tablet is suffering from low production yields, according to a new report.
The software giant is currently working with a "second-tier" Surface chassis supplier that's having trouble producing enough units to match Microsoft's expectations, according to Digitimes, citing sources. The low yield has caused Microsoft to spend extra time evaluating the company's manufacturing to see how it can be improved.
The issue, according to Digitimes' sources, is that the Surface's VaporMg case, which is made out of magnesium, isn't so easy to produce. The blog's sources say that Microsoft had previously met with a host of suppliers about a unibody magnesium-aluminum case, but a lack of capacity scuttled any attempt to go that way.
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Microsoft is asking for 5 million Surface units by the end of the year, according to Digitimes.
Microsoft unveiled its Surface tablet last month. The device comes with a 10.6-inch HD display and the customer's choice of Windows RT or Windows 8 Pro. Microsoft's case also doubles as a keyboard.
The Surface's pricing and availability have yet to be revealed.
CNET has contacted Microsoft for comment on the Digitimes report. We will update this story when we have more information.
