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5.4 Reliability
The failure of the connector may mean failure of the complete system, however complex that system may be. The consequences may range from irritating to catastrophic, leading to damage of the major system components. However, the connection is often designed to be the weakest link in the system and to fail due to any overload, thus protecting the more costly components from damage. The required life is an important criterion and maintenance periods may have to be specified. The loading is often cyclic in nature and fatigue failure can be a particular problem. Most manufacturers specify the life of a connection as a function of the magnitude and type of loading to which it is subjected.