CPS

CPS is an acronym that can refer to several distinct concepts, depending on the context. Among the most common are Cyber-Physical Systems, Child Protective Services, and measurements such as characters per second or clicks per second. Each usage arises in a different domain, and the meaning is clarified by surrounding terms and jurisdiction.

Cyber-Physical Systems are engineered systems in which computational elements tightly integrate with physical processes. They rely on sensors to monitor the environment, actuators to influence it, and communication networks to coordinate components. CPS span domains such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, healthcare, and smart infrastructure. Design priorities include safety, reliability, security, interoperability, and real-time performance, with methods drawn from computer science, control theory, and systems engineering.

Child Protective Services refers to government or social service agencies tasked with protecting children from abuse and neglect. Upon receiving a report, CPS conducts assessments, investigates safety concerns, and arranges services for families. Decisions may involve temporary or permanent arrangements for a child, reporting to authorities, and maintaining confidentiality. CPS duties and procedures vary by country and region, and the agencies often collaborate with law enforcement, healthcare, and education services. Oversight and policy reform are ongoing in many jurisdictions.

Characters per second, and its variants such as clicks per second, measure the rate of input in human-computer interactions and gaming. CPS is used to benchmark typing speed, keyboard/mouse responsiveness, and user interface performance. Testing typically occurs under standardized conditions and may be influenced by hardware, software, and user familiarity. While sharing an acronym, these measures are separate from the CPS concepts in engineering and social services.

Because CPS is polysemous, clarification within any document is essential to avoid ambiguity.