Importance of accurate thermal analyses [computer reliability]

The author focuses on the importance of accurate thermal measurements. The reliability impact of junction temperature changes is examined for four different components. This is followed by two case studies done at the card level as opposed to the component level. The first case study involves a memory card in which a cost-saving technology change was made because of a decrease in the estimated junction temperature. The second case covers a processor card which has 15 temperature-sensitive components. The study examines the reliability implications of inaccurately measuring the thermal characteristics of these components. A section on the monetary and competitive aspects of the importance of accurate thermal measurements is included