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!


Dave

Legacy Testimonial: 200

I was originally impressed by the PCC web site and the feeling that these guys had done their homework (so I didn’t need to). Having just received my awesome new system, I can say that my initial instincts were right on target. Despite a mixup over the case I wanted (partly my fault), I still give PCC an unqualified 10 rating. Jon’s number one concern was that I end up a happy customer with the system I wanted. In these days of offshore customer support, it’s great to deal with a company like PCC — both for the quality of their work and their attitude toward their customers.

Pamela Pakker-Kozicki

Legacy Testimonial: 196

Puget Custom Computers walked me through what sort of system I would need for my business. They helped me to make the best, cost-effective choice for my bottom line. I would not hesitate to recommend them to friends or associates for their next computer purchase. And they came out to set it up, too!

Patrick Healy

Legacy Testimonial: 195

This is a follow-up on my purchase of 4-22-04 — my dual xeon system is working just as expected. What I forgot to mention earlier is that Jon upgraded my Koolance 601 case to the 651 model at no extra charge. The LCD display on the fron of the case is an eye-pleaser! Thanks, Jon!

Frank Flores

Legacy Testimonial: 194

I have purchased several computers in the past. however, none of them have lived up to expectation. after looking into PCC, im really excited about my new system, and i dont even have it yet. So far the customer service is really great. Jon have responded to my questions very quickly. Im sure I will have more to say about PCC once I receive my new system.

Patrick Healy

Legacy Testimonial: 193

For years I have purchased dozens of “high end” systems from the “Big Guys” (i.e. Dell, Gateway, HP, Toshiba), but never got what I really wanted — until I came upon Puget. I reviewed my online order by phone with Jon and he saved me a few hundred bucks by eliminating unnecessary components and extras. The website is awesome, detailed info is great, and the personal attention can’t be beat. Customer Service is excellent. I have finally found a company that I can recommend unconditionally.

This won’t be my last Puget system.

Thomas Pichler

Legacy Testimonial: 192

AAA+++ company! I am buying about 5 computers per month from these guys and the transactions are flawless. Very easy to deal with and they go the extra mile to get your system ready, sometimes even before you expect it. Mostly I deal with Jon directly and he is very accomodating. If you are looking for custom computers don’t look any further, price, service, everything fits.

Davd Lamb

Legacy Testimonial: 191

Having had problems with another company’s “high-end system” , I was cautiously hopeful when I contacted Puget.

The system that I received has been fantastic, and, just as important, Jon’s careful, honest, and friendly guidance is a MAJOR plus! His service is always prompt and courteous, and I have found him very pleasant and kind to deal with. I don’t feel nervous or pressured about asking advice or getting an answer to an “obvious” question. I can’t say that about other computer firms that I’ve dealt with, large or small.

I highly recommend him and Puget Computers to anyone who is serious about purchasing an outstanding system.

Andrew Skilondz

Legacy Testimonial: 190

I haven’t even bought my computer yet and I love this company and website. I am going into college and I needed a customized laptop to where I can do my work with graphic design and other work. I came upon this site and knew this was where I was going to build my computer. Jon is awesome, he responds with the upmost best service. The man rocks. The company rocks. The site rocks.

M. Gross

Legacy Testimonial: 189

Simply the best experience I have ever had with the purchase of a computer!!

I was able to get exactly what I wanted by going through the on-line order/build process. The explanation of different components was very helpful and helped me make most of the decisions easily. For those items I did have questions about, Jon responded quickly to my e-mails.

The communication, attention to detail, product quality and overall customer service is as good as it gets.

The system has exceeded all my expectations and am sure I will be a repeat customer. Many thanks to you, Jon.

Michael Stone

Legacy Testimonial: 187

The system arrived very quickly. Everything was customized exactly as I had requested. One of the drives was not plugged in, but that was no big deal. The constant feedback during the construction process was exceptional. All in all, a great deal, and a company I would shop with again.

Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.