Foxconn iPad factory resumes operation

A Foxconn factory in Chengdu, China that was damaged in an explosion on May 20 has been reopened less than two weeks later, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal. The explosion, which killed 3 workers and injured more than 15 others, was apparently caused by combustible dust used in polishing workshops. Foxconn hasn't disclosed the results of its completed investigations, which Apple also reportedly took part in.

The reopening of production activities at this plant should relieve concerns of financial analysts, many of who anticipated a shortfall of iPad 2 units as a result of the incident. It was thought that the Chengdu plant accounted for as much as 30% of all iPad production and that the explosion would further constrain supplies of the popular tablet -- now analysts believe that many of the constraints are due to "yield issues on certain outside components" and that production of the iPad 2 will remain constrained during the June quarter.