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!
Legacy Testimonial: 104
My experience with PCC was excellent. I got such good service and advise, not to mention a custom built system that I could actually afford, that it was WORTH paying the Washington State Sales tax! Now, how many companies can you say that about?
I thought their web site was so informative that I started to feel guilty about shopping elsewhere, so I decided to pay the tax, and go with PCC and have had absolutely no regrets.
I cannot recomend them enough.
Legacy Testimonial: 103
Jon..keep up the great work.you can teach so many companys a thing or two about how to treat a customer or customer to be NOT TO MENTION CUSTOMER SERVICE.my whole experience with PCC was far better than i ever imagined, and i got what i wanted. I was looking at a company that claims to build computers but they had to many consumer complaints against them. Then i found your company and the rest is history as they say. I would not hesitate to recommend your company to anyone who is even thinking of a new computer because i know there experience with you and your company will duplicate mine. Jon.. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING
Legacy Testimonial: 102
This is my second system purchase. All the same praise applies as the first time I bought: good pre-purchase advice, a fair price, on-time delivery (to the East Coast), and hardware that works just fine. In addition, Jon walked me through a setup issue that stemmed from my particular LAN configuration, through Live Chat and email exchanges. Try getting Michael Dell to do that! Seriously, this is an amazing company that should be supported by all of us who have bought here, by making referrals to all our friends who may be in the market for PCs.
Legacy Testimonial: 101
I have purchased 2 systems from PCC and am very pleased with both.
When I first started looking for a new system, I knew what I wanted it to do but had no concept on what to get. Jon made it easy and understandable. I was so pleased with the first system that I bought another 6 mo later and I plan to upgrade my whole office over the next year.
Legacy Testimonial: 100
I wish I ad $1,300 to give these guys RIGHT NOW for a new system. Jon is knowledgeable, friendly, and –ohmigosh– LISTENS to what your concerns/questions are. The “hand-delivery” for Seattle residents is a WONDERFUL selling point–because it’s a fine way to do business. For people that remember a vet making a house call, or a milkman (am I dating myself?) this business philosiphy is a welcome slice of humanity in a world gone to automated answering systems and “teQ support” that “axes” you a question as to why you’re making them stay on the phone more than 11 minutes… Once I DO have the money, these guys are building my next computer. And the one after that, and the one after that, and the one after that….
Legacy Testimonial: 99
I am one of the most annoying customer ever! Who has bought a computer without a motherboard??? Afterwards I just realize that my “fixed” motherboard is really not working. And then I just called them up and say hey can you give me specifically THIS motherboard? And he just did it for me 🙂
Legacy Testimonial: 98
I bought a system from Puget Custom Computers and I’m very happy with it. The articles on the site are helpful, the feedback and communication from the company are excellent and I feel I got a top-notch product for a fair price.
I will definitely buy from them again.
Legacy Testimonial: 97
I bought a system from PCC in May 02 after an incredibly frustrating experience with another system bought from one of the huge computer sellers. I waited before posting feedback so I could use the system for a few months to see if problems developed.
I am sold on PCC. The prices are competitive–or better. My system is terrific. The service and support are unusually good. From my tentative initial steps, when Jon responded, articulately and persuasively, to my questions about whether I was foolish to buy a system from a small company 3,000 miles away on the west coast, through the process of configuration, delivery, and setup when I encountered some minor problems, Jon was an email or phone call away. I turned to PCC because I was fed up with calling the 800-pound gorilla’s tech support and speaking to nameless, faceless, people whose job it is not to deviate from the customer support script. At PCC you can actually talk to real people, with names and phone numbers, who assembled your computer. The support here is better because the company is smaller. They care about whether you are happy, because your business is important to them.
I recommend PCC without reservation.
Legacy Testimonial: 96
This is one of the best sites that I have seen for a computer company. Found site today for first time. Based on what I have seen, I expect to place an order for a new computer with this company within a few days – Reason? – It sounds to me like these people are not only very professional, but I am convenced that they are honest, reliable, and this is a combination that one does not find too often. I don’t think that I will be disapointed.
Legacy Testimonial: 95
Excellent purchasing experience. The ability of PCC to respond to your questions about what system to purchase and what options, based upon your needs, is unsurpassed in the PC industry. I have purchases 2 systems in past from Dell, and others from other custom makers, and even an HP, the sales support from PCC was the best. Plus the web experience of adding the options you want, with prices listed, is unsurpassed. Can recommend PCC to anyone willing to buy online.
Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.