Calculate a Simple Transfer Budget

Supplied materials

• Paper and pencil; answers may also be spoken or typed.
• All cases, labels, numbers and rules are supplied on this page. No real account, private information or purchase is needed.

Learn the idea

A transfer rate describes data delivered per unit of time. In this idealized model the rate is constant and there are no pauses or overhead. Data amount divided by rate gives elapsed transfer time. Real networks vary, so a classroom result is a model estimate rather than a speed guarantee.

Divide the stated data amount by its constant rate using matching data units. A larger rate means less time for the same amount, not a larger wait.

Use this supplied case: Ideal model: transfer 12 megabytes at a constant 3 megabytes per second. Required time? Use the details in this example. Say which detail helped you choose. This pretend example does not tell us how every real system works.

1. Follow the worked example one step at a time. Say or draw what happens.
2. Divide the stated data amount by its constant rate using matching data units.
3. Say which detail makes the example answer fit. Pick another answer and say why it does not fit.
4. Try the question and practice questions. Read the rule again if your answer does not match the explanation.

Check your reasoning

Your answer is temporary and is not saved to an account. Download your current answer before leaving or reloading. Written work on paper or in another app stays in your own file.

Take it further

New ideal transfer:42 MB at 7 MB/s. Expected:6 seconds, excluding overhead and variable rate. A 3.0 MB/s rate would yield 14 seconds.

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