<p>Before integrating novel design concepts into systems, especially those with stringent requirements such as energy consumption or efficiency, reliability, safety, controllability, and cost, a thorough analysis and comparison with existing solutions are essential. In the case of actuation systems for aircraft control surfaces, for example, a recent and more energy-efficient alternative to the conventional servo-hydraulic actuator (SHA) is the digital hydraulic actuator (DHA). Despite its potential, it is imperative to verify whether this novel concept has similar or improved reliability performance compared to current systems. In this regard, this paper presents an effective framework for the reliability analysis of discrete-event dynamic systems in early design stages, using straightforward fault trees and Boolean logic. The DHA concept was analyzed and tested according to the proposed framework, and the results were compared with data and specifications from the widely used SHA. Through the framework, the estimation of the overall reliability of the new design concept was obtained, thereby increasing the amount of information available and widening the criteria for further decision-making in concept selection by design teams.</p>