IEEE 1541-2002

This standard will define prefixes that denote multiplication of a unit by the binary multiplier 2^10 and integral powers thereof. The prefixes are for use with all units, in all fields where multiplication by a binary multiplier is found to be appropriate.

The prefixes kilo, mega, etc., are sometimes used to denote powers of two, rather than their internationally standardized meaning as decimal multiples. The binary usage is internationally deprecated. This proposed standard will be consistent with, and will support, a recently adopted IEC standard on the subject.

New IEEE Standard - Inactive-Reserved. Reaffirmed 2008. Names and letter symbols for prefixes that denote multiplication of a unit by the binary multiplier 2 10 n ,where n =1,2,3,4,5,or 6 are defined. Although the prefixes may be used with all units in all fields where multiplication by a binary multiplier is found to be appropriate, their primary use is in the field of information technology.