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!


Logan Rook

Legacy Testimonial: 159

Fantastic support and service.

Charles Savoie

Legacy Testimonial: 153

I purchased a mid-high end computer from Puget Computers. It was an Athlon 3000+ XP, 1 Gig Ram, 120GB+8MB HD, DVD-ROM, and liquid cooling case system. The system was to be used at home for high end gaming and audio production. I already had a video card and sound recording system from a previous computer.

My first indication of the excellent customer service this company has when in my initial conversations with Wilson Chau of Puget Computers. I explained my particular needs and he helped me tweak the initial specifications I selected from the easy-to-use web interface. He gave quick, very personalized responses and thoughtful comments on the different components. Eventually we came up with the “killer” configuration and I placed my order.

Puget had prided itself on very quick assembly and delivery, and when the shipping was a couple of days beyond their estimate, my anxiety prompted me to send an inquisitive email as to the status. Immediately, I was given an apology, and told that I would be given a free upgrade to a 200GB HD (at least $100 value!). I was very impressed.

When the system arrived, it performed very well, but had a couple of minor problems. The heat sensor under the CPU had broken in shipping, so I did not have a front panel temperature readout. More importantly, the system seemed noisier than I had expected. I had explained that I needed a very quiet system to do audio recording, and had paid a premium for the quietest components, including liquid cooling. Also, the system created a strange kind of electrical or magnetic interference, which caused my electric guitar to make a loud feedback tone unless I would move 15 feet away. I explained these issues to Mr. Chau and was pleased to find that the post-purchase support was just as exemplary. After some e-mail conversation, in which Mr. Chau showed enormous patience and understanding, it was agreed that I would return the system for their inspection. At this point, they offered to move all the components in the system, including my personal sound and video cards, to a new, higher quality liquid cooled case. The case they ended up swapping to was their top of the line case. I expected to find that this would solve the physical noise issue, but when the system returned I was overjoyed to find that it had solved the interference issue as well. Also, the new case had an even better front panel temperature display, which worked perfectly. The system is a joy to use in every respect, and the price was more than competitive, it was a bargain.

This is the sixth computer I have owned, and I have never encountered such excellent support, and the strongest desire to please the customer. I would recommend Puget to any computer buyer.

Scott Peltz & Barbara

Legacy Testimonial: 144

10++ — that’s how happy we are. Wilson is the best there is re computer knowledge, patience (with us undecideds), and follow-up/through. The computer he helped us put together in everything we wanted and more; a gaming computer that will keep up. Highly, highly recommend this outstanding company. It doesn’t get any better! Thank you, thank you Wilson!

Jim Crawford

Legacy Testimonial: 143

If you are reading this you no doubt have already seen the many glowing reports PCC has gotten. I dont have much too say that you havent read already. The customer service could not be any better. I emailed John on a Sunday night with a question and he responded within an hour. They were extremely helpful both before, during, and after the purchase and I have no doubt that that will continue.
All this and not a mention of the system yet. The system they built was exactly what I wanted and it has performed flawlessly. I tax my system pretty good and it has handled everything with ease so far.
Thanks again for the great work

Shawn McCutcheon

Legacy Testimonial: 142

I am extremely satisfied over my purchase of a computer with Puget Custom Computers. I am convinced I received the most benefit for the price. You do not pay for “extras” you never use or never wanted. With Puget, you can specify everything you want at some of the lowest costs out there. The support is what makes this a truly exceptional company. Try out the live help, it is unparalleled! This is the right choice for any type of computer user.

ROY GOODEN

Legacy Testimonial: 141

I cant say enough about Puget custom computers. Working with Wilson was not only a pleasure but a learning experience. It took me about 5 weeks to get every thing right and Wilson was right there with me all the time giving me ideas and suggestions for an excellent custome computer. Wilson was like haveing my own personal tech rep. My last computer was purchased by me from Dell Computers and based on my working experience with Puget I will get my next computer from Puget. I have recommended Puget to my friends and family……And I would definatly recommend them to you.

Brian G.

Legacy Testimonial: 139

I just purchased a great gaming system form Puget. I was able to customize it just the way I wanted it and it was a great price. The customer service is top notch. They had great advice and rapid responses to my emails. Thanks Puget, you made this an easy process.

Rick Beall

Legacy Testimonial: 138

In the space of 5 months, I configured about 5 system on Puget’s website, and each time Jon or Wilson answered my questions, never rushing me. At the end of my mulling process, I ordered the system and it arrived better packaged than any computer I had ever bought over the internet. I am extremely pleased with it. Actually, the computer was for my wife. She is extremely pleased with it! Thanks guys! I love making that woman happy!

Roland Pfingsten

Legacy Testimonial: 137

If you’re one of those people that is afraid of buying a computer from anyone but a name brand manufacturer, then FEAR NO MORE!!! Puget Custom Computers is a first rate stand up company. The guys at Puget ( Jon Bach & Wilson Chau ) helped me put a system together that matched my needs perfectly. In fact they made suggestions that actually ended up lowering my total cost. When’s the last time one of the big boys asked you to spend less money on their system? As for the system itself, top notch craftsmanship. looks great, top of the line components and works great. And if your concerned about service after the sale, relax!!!! After I received my computer I was having trouble figuring out some connections for an on board tv tuner when Wilson Chau actually called me at my home on a sunday night and spent nearly half an hour with me going over everything until he discovered what I had neglected to hook up. How’s that for service after the sale!!! From here on out I will do business ONLY with Puget Custom Computers. These guys know what they are doing.

Roland Pfingsten

Dr. Brian Boyd

Legacy Testimonial: 136

Jon

Just a note to say I am very pleased with the computer you built for me. At first I was frustrated with Windows XP but was able to get used to it and things worked wery well. For your information I used the Fastlynks 3.3 software to transfer my files, which I highly recommend.

You may want to consider marketing your coustom built systems on the flightsim.com website as there are many potential clients there.

Brian

Brian W. Boyd, D.M.D.

Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.