Failure Modes and Mechanisms

Computers are an essential part of our everyday work environment. Engineering, manufacturing, banking, health, education, aviation, defense, and the government all depend on a myriad of functions performed by computers. It is essential for the smooth functioning of these activities that computer systems provide the service on demand, without interruption, day in and day out, and under all kinds of operating environments. Some of these service demands are critical, such as in a hospital, or may involve the national security where computers maintain a 24-hour watch for enemy intrusions. Regardless of the functions performed, a high degree of confidence in a computer’s operation is required.