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!


William Mapes
El Paso, Texas

Legacy Testimonial: 1254

This is a very well organize company with outstanding customer service support . I was very impressed with the way you are kept inform of the progress and can follow your build. Customer info that is provided by the company is above and beyond what I have seen else where. Shipping packaging for my computer shows how far the company goes to satisfy the customers and protect their investment. I am extremely happy with my computer and know I received a very high end quality machine.

Vernon

Legacy Testimonial: 1253

The folks at Puget Systems keep their promises.

We purchased an Obsidian computer more than six months ago, attracted by the focus on reliability and the comprehensive replacement plan. We have had no significant problems with the system, except a single incident caused by a mistake on our end. During that single incident, in which we appeared to have a system defect, Puget responded promptly, first with extensive support by their customer service personnel, and shortly thereafter by next-day-mailing us the components needed to replace what appeared to be a piece of defective hardware. When the problem still wasn’t fixed, they were on the verge of sending us a whole new computer, as their Obsidian model guarantee promised. Then we figured out it was actually a problem on our end, involving some equipment provided by a third party.

The take-away message, for us, was: the folks at Puget actually keep their promises. They said their Obsidian system would be reliable, and that if it failed anyway they would fix it quickly, even to the point of replacing the whole thing if necessary. And they lived up to that promise. In the end they didn’t have to build us another computer, but they were on the verge of doing so when we figured out the third-party fault causing problems. Compared to other companies that have nice-sounding warranties which they don’t live up to, Puget support is light-years ahead – they promise more, and they actually deliver.

For both the reliability of the system and the stellar customer service and support, we’re very pleased we purchased a Puget Systems computer, and we will definitely look to Puget first next time we need a new system.

Kenneth Walter
Zionsville, PA

Legacy Testimonial: 1252

I had a very positive experience with Puget Systems. It was really neat logging into my account every day and following the building process for my system.I also enjoyed seeing photographs of the completed build before it was shipped to me. I love my new computer, it runs even better then I was expecting and the build quality is top notch. Thank you Puget Systems!

Tim Harwell

Legacy Testimonial: 1251

The customer service and knowledge that Puget systems has is incredible! I was able to speak with Jeff today and he took the time to answer all of my questions, take the quote that I had and offer tweaks and upgrades that I would never have know to ask for. Puget is the best!

Stephan Dolezalek
Portola Valley

Legacy Testimonial: 1250

Puget Systems is a very bright light in the otherwise dark and unfriendly world of customer support. They build great performing systems. They know their stuff. Most importantly they treat their customers in a very special way — they acknowledge that you time is important. Today was good example: even though the tech support team was busy, the sales person that answered my call simply jumped in and got the service call started. When I later had to call back and my service adviser was on another line, the person who answered the phone didn’t say “let me have him call you back.” Instead they simply looked up the status of my call, jumped right in and walked me through the problem — which turned out to be a failed monitor part; not Puget system’s fault. This type of customer service is really hard to find and is even better from a Company that starts by building the best PC systems! Thank you!

Jeff Tarola

Legacy Testimonial: 1249

IN 2009 I had a custom system built by Puget. Cost about $1100. Nothing super fancy
because I don’t do heavy graphics or video or CAD work and such. But I wanted
a system that was built with high quality components. I wanted a SSD, which were not to common
at that time. A decent graphics card. I’m not a gamer but use a lot of stock analysis software.
I did not need massive HD space so the SSD has plenty of room for my apps. I wanted a solid
and high quality mother board and an Intel processor and cooling system that was not
top tier but just a step below. Ten years later this machine is still bullet proof, never had a
problem of any kind and as fast as I need it to be. Much faster that some of my friends
generic desktops that are much newer. I would not hesitate to have them build me
another but I don’t even need a new desktop because their builds are so awesome.

Navjot Hanspal

Legacy Testimonial: 1248

Ordering the PC, virtually seeing it being put together and finally when it arrived, it was everything I expected it to be. Very quiet, fast and does the job it was designed for with aplomb. It is very quiet compared to my earlier machines.

Jared

Legacy Testimonial: 1247

I’ve bought a few custom PC’s before, and Puget went above and beyond all expectations and experiences I’ve had with other companies. They helped me find exactly the right computer parts that were specifically tailored to what I wanted to get out of my PC within my price range. They also explained which parts were better for which price and why in great detail when asked. They had very frequent step by step updates and comments as my system was being built, and the thoroughness they put into every step was easy to see. My PC arrived well packed in perfect condition, and was of exceptional quality. I couldn’t be happier with how Puget handled my order.

Joseph Motto
Eau Claire

Legacy Testimonial: 1246

I first purchased a desktop computer from Puget Systems in 2013. Over the next five years it performed beautifully, and when I had any minor issues I found the support staff at Puget to be readily available, knowledgeable, and most pleasant. That responsiveness was a major factor in my return to them when I decided recently to move on to a new desktop. The transition to a new machine was not an easy one for someone like myself who is not tech-oriented and once again support was immediately available in assisting me in that process. I have no reservations whatever in recommending Puget System to anyone who might ask.

Igor
Dublin, CA

Legacy Testimonial: 1245

Puget Systems delivered a solid computer build (“Johnny Cache” AE system with Blackmagic DeckLink card), extensive testing/benchmarking and great customer service! Quick response times to my questions and additional customization requests. Excellent work!

Read more testimonials from Puget Systems clients.