1. A factory test designed to catch systems with
marginalcomponents before they get out the door; the theory is that
burn-in will protect customers by outwaiting the steepest part
2. A period of indeterminate length in which a person using a
computer is so intensely involved in his project that he
forgets basic needs such as food, drink, sleep, etc. Warning:
Excessive burn-in can lead to burn-out. See
hack mode,