Why is a byte 255?
A byte is a group of 8 bits. A bit is the most basic unit and can be either 1 or 0. A byte is not just 8 values between 0 and 1, but 256 (28) different combinations (rather permutations) ranging from 00000000 via e.g. 01010101 to 11111111 . Thus, one byte can represent a decimal number between 0(00) and 255.
What is 8GB RAM mean?
8GB refers to the RAM. This is memory on a chip that runs the hardware and the memory cache of the computer. The more RAM you have, the more you can do at once and the faster the computer is up to a point. iPhones combine RAM & storage. 8 GBs is enough for most tasks unless you edit videos for a living etc.
Why does the memory size line up with the power of two?
It is Because those numbers are powers of two. Computers address memory (and do everything else) with binary numbers. It makes sense to have memory in amounts that line up with powers of two because there’s no saving in address space if it doesn’t. That is, 7KB takes just as much address space as 8KB.
What is the meaning of less than 8 bits in memory?
Less than has no meaning. Thus, the set of 8 bits is called Bytes. The hard disk memory and network speed are mentioned in bits while usable space is mentioned in Bytes which is a multiple of 8 bits. Multiple sclerosis signs – Some may wish they saw earlier.
Why does the memory of a computer have numbers in it?
It is Because those numbers are powers of two. Computers address memory (and do everything else) with binary numbers. It makes sense to have memory in amounts that line up with powers of two because there’s no saving in address space if it doesn’t.
Why do computers have 2³ instead of 7 bits?
Since computers are binary, having everything be a power of 2 is encouraged, so 2³ = 8 makes more sense than 7 bits. Having this extra bit was also used for a “ parity bit ” — The leading bit of the character would indicate whether the number of 1s in the following 7 bits were even or odd.