[Device availability to successful applications--a definition of terms]

The operation of technical equipment is increasingly considered an important part of quality. But the terms related with "operation" are seldom clearly used. A terminology is hardly ever seen. Nevertheless, a generally accepted and uniformly used definition of terms is essential for scientific work. In this paper, the path from the availability of a device to the successful application is inquired. The terms used are defined. The central term "operation" is examined for significance and requirements. The differences between the man and the machine aspects are stressed. The wish to optimize operation leads to the psychological factors, their significance and a survey of the potential for further optimization of operation using biomedical devices as an example.