Reliability analysis based on a mathematical tool

The MathCAD program, which has proven to be useful in reliability analysis of fault-tolerant systems, is described. Sensitivity and trade-off analyses can be performed easily within the program, and the results can be shown in graphical format for effective evaluation. Function libraries/macros can be developed to model every system configuration. Text, formulas, and graphics inside the MathCAD program, describing the entire analysis, can be used to generate formal documentation such as a reliability analysis report. The results are readable and easily understandable. There are no hidden functions, formulas, or procedures in the body of the analysis. The MathCAD tool helps the reliability engineer concentrate on modeling systems without getting involved in detailed mathematical computation of the system models