Randy,
Remember TL 9000 is a Quality Systems Standard, not a Product standard. OK, the metrics within TL 9000 are applicable to products within the defined categories, but that doesn't stop a requirement being placed on a company to become TL 9000 registered.
The kingpins of TL 9000 are the Service Providers (e.g. SBC, Verizon..) and the products categorized are essentially those purchased by them.
The Service Providers are requiring their suppliers to become registered, but in addition are also demanding that their suppliers get their key suppliers in turn to become registered. At present this certainly will mean Printed Circuit Assembly suppliers, but probably not semiconductor companies. Not yet, anyway....
Hope this helps.