Re: FN-FORUM: FLEX anyone?

date posted 10th May 2007 18:56

Seems we've given conflicting information!

Adam is right, Flex does reduce latency by compressing the packets somewhat.

However, the average http request is only about 500 bytes and I don't
know what the average flex request is BEFORE it's compressed anyway so I
don't know how much that will help.

A dialup modem would send over 6000 bytes per second - so I don't think
trimming the request size down from 500 bytes to 75/100 bytes will do
anything; If a user is 25 hops from your server, no amount of
compression will help.

Unfortunately that is the nature of the beast - even on DSL where you'll
have reasonably decent latency, all you need is the kiddy next door to
come home from school and start bittorrent :)


Tom.
>
> Yes and yes but you will need the Flex Data Services which is a 10k
> licence for the enterprise licence.
>
> It's specifically aimed at people that need realtime information. It
> compresses the data and keeps a 'live' link with the server. I am
> unsure on the background 'bit-usage'.
>
> I would say however that somebody on dial-up isn't going to like
> downloading a Flex app.
>
> You are going to have to be extremely careful with the way you write
> your Flex app. Primary focus has to be on delivering offline
> operation, with connections limited to key functionality. Offline Flex
> apps are possible but f'n hard work to get right. I would possibly be
> looking at scaling what you deliver to a user based on what bandwidth
> they have available. You could do this automatically.
>
> *shrug*
>
> Of course it depends on the type of auction it is. Does it have a
> final bid time or is it a live auction. If it's the former, give them
> a simple html site, latter and they are kinda screwed anyway. There
> will be latency issues.
>
>
>
> Ashraf Aswat wrote:
>> Rightyo chaps and chappettes,
>>
>> Has anyone used FLEX?
>>
>> Specifically does it help in any way to reduce latency in connections to
>> the site?
>>
>> Context = Auction site that wants to have real time updates (5-10
>> seconds for the bid to be placed) their concerns are for dial up users.
>>
>> Mucho thanks in advance
>>
>> Ash
>>
>>
>
>


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Tom Miller - Web Designer & Developer
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