Can I perform a simple “component based” reliability prediction using PRISM, similar to MIL-HDBK-217 Parts Count Method?
Yes. PRISM component models are initially assigned default parameters through the PRISM software based on the user selected component and environmental category (e.g., ground, airborne, etc.). These defaults were assigned based on a detailed analysis of electrical stress conditions typical of parts in the SRC database along with the identification of typical environmental use conditions for the broad environmental categories found in MIL-HDBK-217, such as “ground fixed”. Any of these defaults can then be changed to tailor the model to better fit the users specific situation. Thus, although the models may initially seem complex a user needs no further information to apply them than would be needed to use the MIL-HDBK-217 Parts Count Method (i.e., part type, quantity and environmental category). As more specific design information becomes available appropriate adjustments can easily be made either at the part level, globally across one branch of the system tree structure or globally for
