Power Supply Fault Tolerant Reliability Study
Abstract
Current MIL-HDBK-217 (Reliability Prediction Electronic Equipment) prediction techniques estimate the inherent power supply reliability assuming purely static conditions. In the real world, however, transient conditions such as peaks and surges often exist. These prediction techniques also assume that failure rates are directly proportional to the number of parts designed into the equipment. MIL-HDBK-217 procedures penalize more complex designs by predicting a higher system failure rate. Design features to protect against transient conditions are intended to enhance fielded reliability, however, when incorporated into power supply designs, they result in a lower predicted reliability. Eliminating the transient protection circuitry will result in a higher predicted reliability, but in all likelihood, will decrease the fielded reliability. This study was undertaken to address this dilemma. The three main objectives were: (1) To determine if, and by how much, transient protection features enhance operational reliability, (2) To determine the most significant good design practices for power supplies, and (3) To determine the primary modes of failure for various types of power supplies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA236585
Entities
People
- David A. Followell
Organizations
- Georgia Tech Research Corporation