Revision of MIL-HDBK-217, Reliability Prediction of Electronic Equipment

Abstract

This paper will discuss current efforts in the revision of MIL-HDBK-217, Military Handbook, Reliability Prediction of Electronic Equipment. It has been over a decade since this reliability prediction handbook was last updated, yet it remains the most widely used reliability prediction method for electronic equipment. In February 2008, the Defense Standardization Program Office (DSPO) tasked the Crane Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC Crane), as the Preparing Activity, to revise MIL-HDBK-217. A plan has been created to refresh the handbook and to look at adding a new approach to better reflect reliability of electronic equipment. A working group of individuals representing Department of Defense (DoD) and industry has been established to conduct this revision. Development and implementation of solutions that reflect industry best practices and DoD needs is critical for success. Results of this task are planned to be new revisions of MIL-HDBK-217. These revisions will provide an updated reliability prediction tool that will assist reliability engineers in performing their work.