To perform an equipment validation, what is the first step you should take?

To perform an equipment validation, the first step involves opening a configuration item. This is crucial because configuration items are essential components that need to be defined and documented in order to establish the equipment's characteristics and performance specifications. By accessing the configuration item, a supervisor can verify the necessary configurations, ensure that they meet operational requirements, and confirm that the item has been adequately documented for future reference.

In contrast, other options such as opening logistics support data or performing a pre-transmittal review play significant roles in later stages of the validation process, but do not initiate the validation itself. Logistics support data pertains to the services and resources required to maintain the equipment but is secondary to ensuring the equipment’s specifications are correct first. Similarly, conducting a pre-transmittal review is intended to ensure all documentation is complete before submission but is not the initial step in the validation process. Opening a ship change alteration involves altering existing documentation or configurations and would only be relevant after a configuration item has been reviewed and validated. Thus, starting with the configuration item lays the necessary groundwork for a successful validation process.