More electronics buyers are reporting component supply is tightening, according to Purchasing magazine's monthly survey of electronics business conditions.

Fifty-four percent of buyers surveyed said availability from component manufacturers was tightening in April. That's up from 42% in March.

Some supplier say buyers had gotten used to ordering parts with no or very little leadtime. However, with demand rising and inventories low, buyers have to wait to take delivery of parts.

The scenario will not likely improve. The Forward Demand index, a measure of future purchase orders, registered 77.7 in April. That's down from 80.2 in March, but anytime the index is over 50 purchase orders are expected to rise.

Demand may stay flat for rest of the quarter, but pick up again in Q3. Rising demand will mean an increase in purchase orders, leadtime lengthening and a tighter supply.

Buyers are also reporting higher semiconductor prices. Thirty-seven percent said prices were up in April, compared to 25% in March.

Prices may rise for the rest of the year. Inventories are low and many chip makers have been reluctant to add additional capacity until they are sure that demand will grow.