Theres a whole lot of definitions out there, but basically: Reliability is the ability of a product to perform its intended function. Mathematically speaking (which is more suitable), assuming that an item is performing its intended function at time equals zero, reliability can be defined as the probability that an item will continue to perform its intended function without failure for a specified period of time under stated conditions.

Thanks for the definition of reliability...to add on, in control engineering, it is also known as the inherent precision of measurement... also refered to as repeatability and closely related to reproducibility

I have to admit that this is a very smart definition. I definitely learnt something here.

Thanks,

Rishika

Yep...& tis real & soo important too...nxt time you in a plane up 25000ft from terra-firma, give credit to the definition...coz it's the reliability of the components in the plane that allow you safe travel from point A to point B.....