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Built-in self-test
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<p>A built-in self-test (BIST) or built-in test (BIT) is a mechanism that permits a machine to test itself. Engineers design BISTs to meet requirements such as: </p> <ul><li>high <a href="/facts/Reliability_engineering/cd6AS5w3">reliability</a></li> <li>lower <a href="/facts/Repair_cycle/4emr1kfP">repair cycle times</a></li></ul> <p>or constraints such as: </p> <ul><li>limited technician accessibility</li> <li>cost of testing during manufacture</li></ul> <p>The main purpose of BIST is to reduce the complexity, and thereby decrease the cost and reduce reliance upon external (pattern-programmed) test equipment. BIST reduces cost in two ways: </p> <ol><li>reduces test-cycle duration</li> <li>reduces the complexity of the test/probe setup, by reducing the number of I/O signals that must be driven/examined under tester control.</li></ol> <p>Both lead to a reduction in hourly charges for automated test equipment (ATE) service. </p>