How do I calculate MTBF for a complex electronic system

[Jeff Smith]

I am trying to determine the correct method for determination of an MTBF estimate for a complex (approx 3000 components) electronic system. The system consists of electronic and electromechanical components. I have a thermal chamber at my disposal if temperature cycling would help speed the determination.

I am new at this and would appreciate any advice or references.

Thanks

[Pantelis]

Jeff

The mean time to failure is one reliability metric that one can obtain using reliability methods. Some of these methods (if you are going to determine this through analysis) are
"Life Data Analysis" see http://www.weibull.com/lifedatawebcontents.htm
"Accelerated Life Testing" see http://www.weibull.com/acceltestwebcontents.htm
"System Reliability" see http://www.weibull.com/systemrelwebcontents.htm