Storage Reliability With Periodic Test

Electronic equipment can and does fall upon turn-on or even prior to turn on. This implies that failure mechanisms are at work even when an electronic equipment is not energized; that is, when it is in a storage or dormant condition. This paper addresses the storage/dormancy reliability problem and explores methods for predicting reliability of electronic items that must be in storage or dormancy for long periods of time prior to usage. One such method is to test the item periodically, repair any failures found, and in effect restore the item to near its inherent reliability. The mathematical model for such a system is developed and demonstrated by example. Computer programs were developed to make the calculations and trade-off analyses.