In this article, we’ll show you how to convert data transfer rates from bits per second (bps) to petabits per second (Pbps). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of bps and Pbps
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions and differences between bps and Pbps. Understanding these terms will allow you to perform conversions confidently.
Data transfer rates utilize International System of Units (SI) prefixes to simplify measuring and comparing. This standardization helps in conversions and understanding data transfer.
The table below shows all the SI prefixes and the associated symbols, multipliers, and colloquials.
What is bits per second (bps)?
A bit per second (bps) is the smallest unit to measure data transfer rates[1]. It can only represent two possible values: 0 or 1. It has symbols or abbreviations such as bps, b/s, or bit/s.
One bit per second equals 0.000000000000001 petabits per second (Pbps) or 1×10-15 Pbps or 1e-15 Pbps.
What is petabits per second (Pbps)?
A Petabit per second (Pbps) is a unit of measurement for data transfer rates used when transferring data over a specialized multicore or multimode fiber optic connection between telecommunications companies[2].
It is part of the International System of Units (SI) and uses decimal multiples of bits (1015). It has symbols or abbreviations such as Pbps, Pb/s, Pbit/s, or Petabit/s.
One petabit per second equals one quadrillion bits per second or 1,000,000,000,000,000 bps or 1015 bps.
bps to Pbps formula
Let’s take a closer look at the conversion formula so you can carry out these conversions independently, whether you're using a calculator or doing it manually with pencil and paper.
Fraction formula for converting from bps to Pbps: n Pbps = n bps ÷ 1,000,000,000,000
Decimal formula: Pbps = bps × 0.000000000000001
Scientific notation formula: Pbps = 1 × 10-15 bps
Or remember the bps-to-Pbps conversion factor: 1 bps = 0.000000000000001 Pbps
Examples
Now, let's take a look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from bits per second to petabits per second (bps to Pbps).
Convert 400,000 bps to Pbps
Write down 400,000 bps and multiply it by the bps-to-Pbps conversion factor: 0.000000000000001 or 10-15 to get the rate value in Pbps:
400,000 bps = (4×105) × (1×10-15) = 4×10-10 = 0.0000000004 Pbps
So, 400,000 bits per second is equal to 0.0000000004 petabits per second.
Alternatively, you can use our calculator by entering 400,000 into the bps box, and you instantly get the rate value in Pbps, in this case, 0.0000000004 Pbps or 4e-10 Pbps.
bps to Pbps conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting data rates from bits per second (bps) to petabits per second (Pbps). It covers a range from 0.1 bps to 1,000 bps, allowing for easy and quick conversions between both units of measurement.
| bits per second | Petabits per second |
|---|---|
| 0.1 bps | 0.0000000000000001 Pbps |
| 0.5 bps | 0.0000000000000005 Pbps |
| 1 bps | 0.000000000000001 Pbps |
| 2 bps | 0.000000000000002 Pbps |
| 4 bps | 0.000000000000004 Pbps |
| 5 bps | 0.000000000000005 Pbps |
| 10 bps | 0.00000000000001 Pbps |
| 20 bps | 0.00000000000002 Pbps |
| 30 bps | 0.00000000000003 Pbps |
| 40 bps | 0.00000000000004 Pbps |
| 50 bps | 0.00000000000005 Pbps |
| 60 bps | 0.00000000000006 Pbps |
| 70 bps | 0.00000000000007 Pbps |
| 80 bps | 0.00000000000008 Pbps |
| 90 bps | 0.00000000000009 Pbps |
| 100 bps | 0.0000000000001 Pbps |
| 200 bps | 0.0000000000002 Pbps |
| 500 bps | 0.0000000000005 Pbps |
| 800 bps | 0.0000000000008 Pbps |
| 1,000 bps | 0.000000000001 Pbps |
FAQs
Is 1 bps or 1 Pbps faster?
A Terabit per second (Pbps) is a quadrillion times faster than a bit per second (bps). A bit per second (bps) is the smallest unit for measuring data transfer rates. Here are the relationships between both units:
1 Pbps = 1 × 1015 bps = 1,000,000,000,000,000 bps1 bps = 1 × 10-15 Pbps = 0.000000000000001 Pbps
How to convert from bps to Pbps?
To convert a data transfer rate from bits per second (bps) to Petabits per second (Pbps), follow the simple steps below:
- Write down the rate value in
bits per second (bps). - Multiply it by the value of a
bps-to-Pbpsconversion factor:0.000000000001or10-15or1e-15. - The result from multiplication is the value of the transfer rate in
petabits per second (Pbps).
You now know how to convert data transfer rate from bits per second (bps) to petabits per second (Pbps). You can quickly use our calculator to convert between the rate units to save time for future calculations.
For further understanding, check our data storage converter page to learn more about the differences between decimal and binary units of data storage.
