This is a list of all System z196 CPU's performance counter event types. Please see the "The Load-Program-Parameter and CPU-Measurement Facilities" document at http://www-01.ibm.com/support/docview.wss?uid=isg26fcd1cc32246f4c8852574ce0044734a.
| Name | Description | Counters usable | Unit mask options |
| CPU_CYCLES | Processor cycles | all | |
| INSTRUCTIONS | Instructions completed | all |
Measurement is a crucial component of performance improvement since reasoning and intuition are fallible guides and must be supplemented with tools like timing commands and profilers.- The Practice of Programming, Brian W. Kernighan and Rob Pike