1. A factory test designed to catch systems with marginal
components before they get out the door; the theory is that
burn-in will protect customers by outwaiting the steepest part
of the bathtub curve (see infant mortality).
2. A period of indeterminate length in which a person using a
computer is so intensely involved in his project that he
forgets basic needs such as food, drink, sleep, etc. Warning:
Excessive burn-in can lead to burn-out. See hack mode,
larval stage.
[Jargon File]
Nearby terms:
Burge's Language « buried treasure « burn-in « burn-in period » Burroughs Corporation » Burst EDO » Burst Extended Data Out DRAM
