wbedard
join:2001-12-28
Fort Washington, MD | Pbmps defined Since nobody answered the initial poster's question, allow me to give a brief, if not rigerously accurate, definition of the term. Peta-bit-meters-per-second is a term that acknowledges the fact that there are tradeoffs when transferring data. The shorter the distance, the faster you can generally transfer data (think about what goes on inside your CPU). Likewise, longer distances require a slower rate (as is the case with NASA's link to the Mars Global Surveyor). Distance multiplied by speed (i.e. pbmps) just allows for advancements in either speed -or- distance to be given credit. While advancements in CPU speed will not likely ever break into Internet2's accomplishments, advanced links between Earth and future missions to Mars and elseware could conceivably advance the mark some due to the great distances involved. That will be a tough challenge, however, since I don't believe that the vacuum of space can conduct as much data as modern fiber-optic cable. We'll have to wait and see...:>)
Hope this helps some.
Bill |
