smoke test

[′smōk ‚test] (engineering) A test used on kerosine to determine the highest point to which the flame can be turned before smoking occurs.

smoke test

A test in which nontoxic, visible smoke is introduced in an air-distribution system, ductwork, piping, etc., to indicate the routes taken by air currents and/or to detect leaks.

smoke test

(1)A rudimentary form of testing applied to electronicequipment following repair or reconfiguration, in which poweris applied and the tester checks for sparks, smoke, or otherdramatic signs of fundamental failure. See magic smoke.

smoke test

(2)By extension, the first run of a piece of software afterconstruction or a critical change. See and compare reality check.

There is an interesting semi-parallel to this term amongtypographers and printers: When new typefaces are beingpunch-cut by hand, a "smoke test" (hold the letter in candlesmoke, then press it onto paper) is used to check out newdies.

smoke test

A test of new or repaired equipment by turning it on. If it smokes... it is not working! Originally coined when smoke was introduced to check for leaks in newly manufactured containers and pipes, the term also refers to testing a software application for the first time. See testing types.

Smoke Test

Not the most sophisticated way to tell if something is working properly, but it is a sure guarantee that it is not.