How to Calculate MTBF From Failure Rate

A common metric used when determining the reliability of a specific model of computer hardware is MTBF. MTBF, Mean Time Between Failure, is a measure of the average time a piece of computer hardware will operate before encountering a hardware failure of some sort. MTBF is calculated using operating time and downtime events as factors. Calculating the MTBF of a particular hardware installed in a server or enterprise workstation provides meaningful information into the cost efficacy of hardware purchases.

Instructions

1. Let MTBF = M, Total Time = T, and Number of failures = R. T may be measured in any quantity of time, such as hours, days or years.

2. Divide T by R.

3. Round the resulting quotient to the nearest whole number. The resulting number is "M" or the MTBF.

References

• VICOR Reliability Engineering: Reliability and MTBF Overview
• Endwave: Reliability and MTBF Application Note
• EventHelix: Reliability and Availability Basics