Burn-In Process

Burn-In Process

Any time you use new computer components, you are subject to the risk of manufacturing defects, shipping damage, and many other possible sources of hardware failure. A “burn-in” process stresses the components in a system, so that if they are close to failure, we can make sure they break here – allowing us to fix or replace them before the computer gets to our customer. It is much like the way Boeing puts huge stresses on aircraft wings before flying the aircraft: if the wings have a defect, and are going to fail, they want that failure to happen before the aircraft leaves the plant. So, a burn-in test helps ensure that only hardware without defects leaves our facility.

What exactly do we do? The first test we run is very targeted, with a rigorous memory verification tool that makes sure the proper amount of system RAM is detected and that it functions without error for an extended period of time. This test also hits the CPU pretty hard, and depending on the amount of memory in the computer can last several hours. It is critical to make sure that the RAM is rock-solid before moving on, though, since misbehaving memory can cause a whole host of issues once the operating system is up and running.

Next, Windows is installed and all driver and OS updates are applied. Afterward, we run several benchmarks to collect performance data which we use to make sure the workstation is performing as expected for its particular specifications. Toward the end of that process we use a combination of utilities at the same time, with the specific intention of pushing the hardware to its limits – putting the CPU, RAM, and GPU(s) under heavy load for several minutes to ensure stable operation, before considering the PC ready for quality control. A similar system-wide stress test is run again as part of QC, where we can also monitor temperatures to ensure adequate cooling and power draw from the wall to verify that the included power supply will be able to run the computer safely.

Read what our customers have to say about our burn-in process!


David Aslesen
Orfordville, WI

Legacy Testimonial: 1155

This is the first one of three video workstations that I’ve bought in the last 10 years that is acceptably quiet. The other two I’ve bought from other vendors had fans that ended up sounding like tanks. I did go with the quiet fans and case modifications just to be sure, but it would probably be quiet even without those. Excellent, relevant research articles and advice. Fun to see the ‘real-time’ progress in assembly and test. Would definitely recommend.

Paul Duncan
Newfield, NY

Legacy Testimonial: 1154

My experience with Puget Systems has been the best in about 35 years of buying or building personal computers. Configuring a system on the web site was easy using the extensive information and expert recommendations for each component. The smart system designs optimize power, sound, and heat management. The detailed status updates as my system was being built was quite interesting–I got to virtually look over the shoulder as the build, configuration, test, and burn-in steps proceeded. All performance test results are available for viewing. My very well-packaged Serenity system arrived in perfect condition and powered up off the fast SSD drive (a first for me). It took less than a day to migrate 50,000 images and a few dozen applications and everything is working perfectly and quietly. I confidently recommend Puget Systems to anyone looking for a custom system in this class.

Wayne Radochonski
Bozeman, Montana

Legacy Testimonial: 1153

I purchased a Serenity system that dual boots Linux and Windows 10 about 18 months ago. I use this system for HDL simulation and firmware development. My system has been subjected to long flights, hot, humid climates and has been stressed very heavily; it has never failed despite the torture.

I had a few teething problems with Linux and the Intel SSD but the staff at Puget were very helpful keeping me productive. The Serenity is absolutely quiet. I seem able only to make the extra fan turn on when using MATLAB; it’s hardly noticeable when running.

I pay the mortgage with this machine. Everything else (Dell, Lenovo, etc.) seems like a toy after you use a Puget system.

Harlan V. Bordelon
Dry Prong, La.

Legacy Testimonial: 1144

Not being a “computer person”, I was somewhat intimidated when it was time for me to replace my old, (2003), dinosaur of a computer. I had very specific needs, and thought a “custom” computer would be the way to go, but where to go? I “googled up” “custom computers”, and started researching. When I came across “Puget Systems”, I was really impressed with their “mission statement”, so much to the point that I decided to to a chance with them, but, nevertheless, I knew anybody could “talk the talk”. Well, to make a long story short, not only did “Puget Systems” “talk the talk”, they absolutely “walked the walk”! They stepped me through the process, helping me to settle in on exactly what I needed, nothing more, nothing less. In dealing with them, (Puget Systems), I never once felt as though I were on an island, they were always an “E”-mail, or phone call away, with answers to any of my dumb, (remember, I said I was not a computer person), questions, and concerns, from the beginning to the end! They even had the decency to check up on me after my account was closed, just to make sure everything was still to my satisfaction, (it was), … who does that? To anyone looking to get away from the “one size fits all” paradigm of the major chain stores, and get a truly custom, (and affordable), computer tailored for your specific needs, I can wholeheartedly recommend you go with my good buddies at “Puget Systems”!

Francis Speranza
Wilmerding Pa

Legacy Testimonial: 1143

It’s only been a couple of days with my new Spirit but I am very happy. Great company to work with, good suggestions on the build, packaging and shipping great. Look forward to many years with this computer from Puget Systems!!!

Francis Speranza

Legacy Testimonial: 1142

When I first saw my new Puget next to my other computer it looked like a little guy sitting next to a weight lifter, what a unit. This is just the first couple of hours working with the Spirit and it is going well, extremely fast and soooo quite. This whole experience with Puget has been nothing short of excellent, right from talking to Wilson to get the build correct, to the status updates, to the professional binder that comes with the computer, to the excellent shipping and packaging to protect the computer during shipping. Excellent job!!!

Steven Albert

Legacy Testimonial: 1140

This experience has been one of the best buying experiences I have ever had for anything! I make natural history documentaries and needed a computer that can handle the editing on Premiere Pro with large file sizes. The Puget Systems team lead me through the process with an assured hand. They answered my questions and I was very confident in their guidance. The computer arrived a few days ago and it is just as they described. Overall, I love the Puget System team and philosophy.

Austin Marks
St. Joseph

Legacy Testimonial: 1139

The folks over at Puget Services were super helpful in helping me build a great video editing and animation machine that fit within my budget! They were prompt to respond to and answer my questions and they kept me informed all along the way. Loving this monster of a machine!

Dustin Hatfield
Odessa, Texas

Legacy Testimonial: 1138

These guys make the process of buying a computer a pleasure. Everything you want from a customer support standpoint they deliver; slick website, quick and honest responses to inquiries, and no salesmanship garbage. They want you to get what you need when you need it. The way it should be. Purchase with confidence.

John
Seattle

Legacy Testimonial: 1137

Highly recommended! In my experience, Puget Systems has some of the best, perhaps THE best, customer service I have ever encountered in any industry. Every interaction I’ve had with them has resulted in total satisfaction. From helping select the perfect configuration, to helping out when a particular component was not the best choice, to technical service almost two year later, they have never disappointed me.

Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.