A graphics reproduction firm has four units of equipment that are automatic but occasionally become inoperative because of the need for supplies, maintenance, or repair. Each unit requires service roughly twice each hour, or, more precisely, each unit of equipment runs an average of 30 minutes before needing service. Service times vary widely, ranging from a simple service (such as pressing a restart switch or repositioning paper) to more involved equipment disassembly. The average service time, however, is five minutes. Equipment downtime result in a loss of $20 per hour. The one equipment attendant is paid $6 per hour.
Using finite queuing analysis, answer the following questions:
- What is the average number of units in line?
- What is the average number of units still in operation?
- What is the average number of units being serviced?