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Bench reference · 254 terms

Words worth knowing

Start with the plain-language meaning, then reach for the technical definition when you need precision.

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Common-cause failure

Also: common-mode failure

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In plain language

One shared cause defeating multiple supposedly redundant channels.

Technical definition

Shared power, environment, connector, calibration, software, or design assumptions invalidate naive independence calculations.

Example Two range sensors both fail on the same glossy surface.

Common misconception Duplicating identical components does not eliminate shared vulnerabilities.