>>>>>There is talk of providing 1, 2-8 Mb broadband. Some providers talk about, say, 512 Kbps.
>>>>>
>>>>>This made me think: just what IS 2 Mb broadband? OK the bandwidth but there's no time element in there. For instance, what DOES 2 Mb work out at as Kbps?
>>>>>
>>>>>Anyone?
>>>>
>>>>I've always interpreted 2Mbps as 2000Kbps. Could be wrong.
>>>
>>>Hi Jim
>>>
>>>That's as maybe, but it's no nearer to answering my question.
>>>
>>>>
>>>>Also, remember that it's bits they're talking about, not bytes.
>>>
>>>Sure, but what does 2 Mbyte broadband equal in Kbps?
>>
>>Where did the "Mbyte" come from????
>>I'll stick with 2000Kbps.
>
>Sorry, slip of the tongue/fingers.
>So you it's 2Mb broadband = , and the "per second" is understood?
>
>In that case, correct me if I'm wrong, a 2 Mbyte file would download in 8.192 seconds?
>
>Cos:
>
>2 Mbyte = 8 bits * 1024 * 1024 * 2 = 16,777,216 bits
>
>@ 2000 Kbps = 16,777,216/(2,000 * 1024) = 8.192 seconds
>
>This seems faster than I'd expected :-|

Faster than I would expect too, because I've always understood that one should calculate using only 70% of rated speed for any communications.

Also, I'm not sure if there are 7, 8 or 9 bits transmitted. My guess would be 9 (8 + a check-bit).

I have a 1.5 Mbps connection and its adequate for my needs. I could get better but the price difference didn't seem worth it.