It is widely recognized that increasing the accuracy and diversity of rotating machinery necessitates an appropriate diagnostic technique and maintenance system. Until now, operators have monitored machinery using their senses or by analyzing simple changes to root mean square output values. We developed an expert diagnostic system that uses fuzzy inference to expertly assess the condition of a machine and allow operators to make accurate judgments. This paper describes the hardware and software of the expert diagnostic system. An assessment of the diagnostic performance for five fault phenomena typically found in pumps is also described.