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Kbps - Kilobits per second

Enhanced Definition

Kbps, or Kilobits per second, is a standard unit of measurement for data transfer rates, representing 1,000 bits of data transmitted or received per second. In the mainframe context, it is primarily used to quantify the speed and throughput of network connections, communication links, and data streams involving z/OS systems.

Key Characteristics

- Unit of Measurement: Represents 1,000 individual bits per second, not to be confused with KBps (Kilobytes per second), which represents 1,024 bytes (or 8,192 bits) per second.
- Network Speed Indicator: Commonly used to specify the nominal speed of network interfaces, WAN links, SNA connections, and other communication channels connected to or emanating from the mainframe.
- Historical Relevance: While modern mainframe networks often operate at Gbps or Tbps speeds, Kbps was a critical metric for older SNA links, X.25 networks, and SDLC lines.
- Throughput Measurement: Can be used to measure the actual data throughput achieved by applications or services, such as FTP transfers, 3270 terminal traffic, or remote job entry (RJE) streams.
- Performance Baseline: Provides a fundamental unit for understanding and comparing the performance capabilities of different network components and configurations within the z/OS ecosystem.