However, tablets and computers won't be the hardest hit. No, that distinction goes to the automotive industry, iSuppli reported.

Renesas Technology, which is a key supplier of computer chips for automobiles, has been hit hard, not only by the earthquake and tsunami, but also by the rolling electrical brown-outs and black-outs.

The company has partially resumed operations at five of its chip plants. And while several more are expected to go back online, it's likely to be only in a limited capacity until the blackouts are over. And that could take months.

Sharon Gaudin covers the Internet and Web 2.0, emerging technologies, and desktop and laptop chips for Computerworld. Follow Sharon on Twitter at , or subscribe to . Her e-mail address is .

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