A frequent question we get here at DigiKey concerning many different products and product types is requests for what some customers call a ‘survival’ or ‘non-operating’ temperature. This would be when a product lists a given operating temperature range, such as -20C to 70C for many extended consumer products, and a customer asks if the product can withstand temperatures beyond this range so long as the product is not “Operating”, i.e. in use.
As a rule: If a product does not specify any temperature ratings beyond ‘Operating’ temperature, assume ‘Operating’ temperature applies under all circumstances.
The underlying assumption behind these questions is often wondering if the product can survive storage or shipment in extreme conditions without having to purchase more expensive product rated for those conditions so long as the product is not activated under the extreme conditions in question. If a product’s documentation does not mention any sort of storage temperature range or conditions however, that is because it doesn’t have such specifications. Most suppliers verify the product to a single temperature range assumed to be in play whether the part is actively working or not - subject a part rated for -40C to -68C instead but only if the part is ‘off’ still counts as exceeding its temperature range and will likely cause damage.
As with many of the questions we get concerning a desire to skirt, subvert, or avoid an absolute maximum rating, there is no safe way to exceed a product’s maximum rated temperature ranges. These ratings are in place for good reason and cannot be end-run without consequences.