Real Number Representation - 8.4 | 8. Hexadecimal Representation | Computer Organisation and Architecture - Vol 1
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Binary and Hexadecimal Representation

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Today, we are going to discuss how numbers are represented in computers. Let's start with the binary system. Can anyone tell me what binary represents?

Student 1
Student 1

Binary represents numbers using only two digits: 0 and 1.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Now, when we deal with larger numbers, writing them in binary can be cumbersome. This is where hexadecimal comes in. Hexadecimal is a base-16 system. Can anyone tell me what symbols we use in hexadecimal?

Student 2
Student 2

We use digits 0-9 and letters A-F!

Teacher
Teacher

Yes! Each hex digit represents 4 binary bits. For example, what is the binary equivalent of `FF` in hexadecimal?

Student 3
Student 3

It would be `11111111`, which is 255 in decimal.

Teacher
Teacher

Great job! So, hexadecimal is a compact way to represent binary data.

Understanding Two's Complement

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Teacher
Teacher

Now, let's discuss how we represent negative numbers using two's complement. Can anyone summarize what two's complement is?

Student 4
Student 4

Two's complement allows us to represent negative integers in binary by flipping the bits and adding one.

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! So if we start with the binary representation of a positive number, what would be the first step to convert it to two's complement?

Student 1
Student 1

First, we flip the bits.

Student 2
Student 2

Then we add one to the result!

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! For example, to represent -1 in an 8-bit number, what do we start with?

Student 3
Student 3

We start with `00000001` for 1, flip to `11111110`, and then add 1 to get `11111111`.

Teacher
Teacher

That’s right! So, -1 is represented as `11111111` in two's complement.

Range of Integer Representation

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Teacher
Teacher

Now, let’s look closely at the integer ranges. If we have an 8-bit representation for integers, what is the total number we can represent?

Student 4
Student 4

We can represent 256 different values!

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! But when using two's complement for signed integers, how does that affect our range?

Student 1
Student 1

The range becomes -128 to 127.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! And why does it only represent that range?

Student 2
Student 2

Because we need to reserve one bit for the sign, leaving 7 bits for the magnitude.

Teacher
Teacher

Well explained! Always remember that the first bit indicates the sign.

Overflow in Binary Arithmetic

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Teacher
Teacher

Today, we're discussing overflow. When adding two binary numbers, what does overflow mean?

Student 3
Student 3

It means the result is too large for the number of bits available.

Teacher
Teacher

Right! Can someone give an example of when overflow occurs in 4-bit representation?

Student 4
Student 4

If you add `0111` (7) and `0001` (1), you get `1000`, which is -8 in two's complement, but we expect 8.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! This is an overflow condition. The way to detect overflow is to check the carry into and out of the most significant bit. Can anyone summarize that rule?

Student 1
Student 1

If the carry in and carry out differ, then overflow has occurred.

Teacher
Teacher

Excellent summary! Remember this when you work with binary numbers.

Fixed vs Floating Point Representation

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Teacher
Teacher

Let's switch gears and talk about real numbers. How do we handle decimal points in binary?

Student 2
Student 2

We can use fixed point or floating point representations.

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! What’s the difference between fixed point and floating point?

Student 3
Student 3

Fixed point has a fixed number of bits for whole and fractional parts. Floating point adjusts the position of the decimal point.

Teacher
Teacher

Yes! In floating point representation, we typically separate the sign bit, exponent, and mantissa. What does the sign bit indicate?

Student 4
Student 4

It indicates whether the number is positive or negative.

Teacher
Teacher

Great! Always remember that understanding these representations is key to working with numbers in programming and computing.

Introduction & Overview

Read a summary of the section's main ideas. Choose from Basic, Medium, or Detailed.

Quick Overview

This section discusses how real numbers are represented in computer systems, particularly focusing on binary, hexadecimal, and two's complement notation.

Standard

The section explains the representation of real numbers in various number systems, including binary and hexadecimal forms. It discusses the importance of these representations in computing and how sign magnitude and two's complement methods are used to manage positive and negative integers.

Detailed

Real Number Representation

In digital systems, representing numbers correctly is crucial for computations. This section reviewed how numbers can be represented in different forms. Binary representation is the foundation, as computers utilize binary digits (bits), which can either be 0 or 1. To simplify work with large binary numbers, hexadecimal (base-16) representation is also used, where 4 binary bits are mapped to a single hex character. For instance, the binary number 11111111 corresponds to FF in hexadecimal and 255 in decimal.

The section also addresses the representation of integers using 8-bit numbers. Here, the range of values is initially from 0 to 255 for unsigned integers. However, when accounting for negative integers using sign magnitude and two's complement methods, the effective range is reduced to -128 to 127.

The two's complement system allows for easier computation with negative numbers in binary, eliminating the need for separate sign bits as seen in sign magnitude. It uses an 8-bit number where the first bit determines the sign: 0 for positive and 1 for negative. The section also covers how to compute two's complement and address potential overflow situations when performing arithmetic operations. Finally, the importance of fixed and floating-point representation for real numbers is emphasized.

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Audio Book

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Understanding Hexadecimal Representation

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So, the similar information I am representing in another number system which is your hexadecimal. Now, you just see what I am saying this is your 8 bit number all 0s to all 1s. So, all 1 in decimal it becomes 255 in hexadecimal it is your FF, FF means 15 F represents 15, 15 × 16^1 + 15 × 16^0. So, in that particular case we will get that this is nothing but 255 in decimal.

Detailed Explanation

In this chunk, we're exploring how numbers can be represented in different bases, focusing on hexadecimal (base 16) representation. An 8-bit number can have values from all 0s (0 in decimal) to all 1s (255 in decimal). The hexadecimal representation simplifies understanding these numbers. For example, the maximum value of an 8-bit number, which is all 1s (11111111 in binary), represents 255 in decimal and as FF in hexadecimal, since F represents the value '15'. The conversion involves multiplying the first F by 16^1 (which equals 16) and the second by 16^0 (which equals 1), hence, 15 × 16 + 15 × 1 = 255.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine you are trying to store information in a colorful box that can hold 256 unique items (like a box of chocolates). Each unique arrangement of chocolates represents a number. Using hexadecimal is like having a shorthand system that lets you quickly tell your friend how many chocolates are in the box without having to count them each time. Instead of saying '255 unique flavors,' you can just say 'FF' — it saves time and is easier to communicate!

Advantages of Hexadecimal in Binary Representation

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Now, when we are going to discuss that representation of number in computer or in your binary system or binary digit most of the time we are going to take help of hexadecimal number system because it is having one advantage. Say, when I am going to work with 32 bit number I have to write 32 bits ok all 32 bits 0 or maybe combination of 0s and 1 which is slightly difficult. Similarly when we are going to work with 8 bits we are going to write 8 bits all 0s to all 1.

Detailed Explanation

Here, we discuss the practicality of using hexadecimal notation in programming and computer science. Working with binary numbers (0s and 1s) can be cumbersome, particularly when dealing with larger data structures like 32-bit numbers, which require writing 32 different bits. Hexadecimal offers a way to simplify this since each hexadecimal digit represents four binary digits (bits), making it easier to handle large numbers. For example, instead of writing '00000000 00000000 00000000 00001111' (for the decimal number 15), you can simply write '0F'.

Examples & Analogies

Think of hexadecimal as a shortcut in a long, tedious process of binary counting. Picture you’re packing a suitcase and need to communicate how many items you have. Instead of listing every individual piece of clothing you have (which would take forever), you can give a quick summary — like saying you have several shirts instead of counting each one. Hexadecimal helps us summarize complex binary data efficiently!

Range of Values in Byte Representations

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So, basically we have with 8 bit numbers we can handle 256 different numbers. So, if it is your only positive numbers we are going to deal from 0 to 255, but if we are going to handle negative numbers then range will reduce it will go from some negative 127 to positive 127 or may be + - so on.

Detailed Explanation

This chunk focuses on how 8-bit numbers represent values. An 8-bit integer can represent 256 distinct combinations (from 00000000 to 11111111). If we consider only positive integers, this range is from 0 to 255. However, when we start representing negative numbers, some values must be reserved for this purpose, which effectively divides the range into positive and negative values, specifically -127 to +127. Therefore, the usable range for positive integers shrinks when accounting for negative representations.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine you have a bookshelf with room for 256 books. If you only decide to place positive books (like 'Successful Business Books'), you can fit all 256 books. Now, if you also want to include books you didn't read (like 'Unfinished Tasks'), you have to reserve some space for them. Thus, your ability to display actual self-help books decreases as negative options take up space — similar to how negative numbers reduce positive representation in binary systems.

How to Represent Negative Numbers

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Now, for that we are having 2 ways of representing this number one is your sign magnitude in that particular case we are talking about the number system. Now, say if I am having 8 bit numbers. So, I am having a combination of 0s and 1s and 8 bits 8 symbols. So, in that particular case we are having 256 different symbols or combinations, so this combination will go from 0 to 255.

Detailed Explanation

In this chunk, we discuss the methods for representing negative numbers in binary systems, specifically focusing on 'sign magnitude' representation. In this method, we divide the 8 bits into two parts: one bit for the sign (positive or negative) and the remaining bits for the magnitude (the actual value). For instance, in an 8-bit representation, the first bit can denote whether the number is positive (0) or negative (1), while the next 7 bits express the magnitude of the number. This effectively leaves us with reserved combinations for negative numbers, affecting the total number range allowed.

Examples & Analogies

Consider tracking temperature changes. If you only discuss temperatures between 0°C (freezing point) and 255°C (boiling point in some cases), everything seems simple and clear. However, if you start negative temperatures (like -1°C, -5°C, etc.), you need to rethink your tracking system — just like adding negative numbers requires additional sign elements in a binary number representation. It's like trying to note down rising and falling temperatures while ensuring you still cover your range efficiently!

The Two's Complement Method

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So, for that we may go for some other representation which is known as your two’s complement. In that two’s complement just I am giving one example just only getting phone numbers. Now in that particular case what will happen this is the representation if I am having 0 then these are all 0s, +1 is simple that magnitude 1, +4 will be 100 like that and negative number is coming as -1 is representing as your all 1s then - 2 is coming as your all 1 and 0 and - 3 is coming as your all 1 after that six 1’s 01.

Detailed Explanation

The concept of two's complement is introduced here as a more efficient method for representing negative numbers in binary. The two's complement system involves flipping (complementing) all the bits of a number and adding one. For example, to represent -1 in an 8-bit system, we would first write the binary for 1 (0000 0001), flip it to get (1111 1110), and then add one to get (1111 1111). This effectively allows computers to perform arithmetic without needing separate rules for positive and negative numbers.

Examples & Analogies

Think about using a calculator that can only show you positive and negative results but needs a system to handle both seamlessly. Instead of writing a different equation for negative numbers, you’d prefer a quick way to calculate results, right? That’s what two's complement does in computing — it simplifies how we manage calculations for negative values, almost like setting a two-function button that turns numbers into negatives at a single press, allowing easy calculations!

Range of Numbers in Two's Complement

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Now, if we are going to look for this particular combination because it is coming don’t know what I am saying that you start with all 1 then 11111110 like that you decrease it and finally, we are going to get this particular number. So, for this particular number if I take the one’s complement then I am going to get this representation and 2’s complementation I am going to get this particular number.

Detailed Explanation

This section goes deeper into the mechanics of two's complement representation. As we examine various combinations in binary, starting from 11111111 (all bits as 1), we recognize differences as we descend to simpler binary forms. The key takeaway here is that the highest negative number in an 8-bit two's complement system is -128 (10000000), from which we can derive that two's complement provides an effective means for handling integers that ranges from -128 to 127 for an 8-bit system simply by using a singular unified system for both negative and positive integers.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine driving down a street where the highest point is zero (your home), moving towards positive numbers and counting as you go; negative numbers represent where you have been. The two's complement method is akin to using a simple scale of measurement (where you can just move to the left or right without needing separate concepts for distance traveled either way). You simply rely on one mechanism to signify progression or regression along that road.

Detecting Overflow in Calculations

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So, this is basically we should talk about the overflow situation; that means, we are trying to perform some operation computer is doing it or digital system is doing it and essentially it is giving me some result, but this result is wrong I cannot consider it.

Detailed Explanation

This chunk discusses the potential issue of overflow that can occur in binary calculations. Overflow happens when a calculation results in a number too large for the number of bits allocated to store that value. For example, if we attempt to add 7 (0111) and 7 (0111) in a 4-bit system, the result is 14, which cannot be represented accurately in 4 bits (1110 indicates -2 due to overflow). Understanding overflow is crucial when computing with fixed-size binary systems, influencing how data integrity is maintained in calculations.

Examples & Analogies

Picture a jar that can hold a fixed quantity of candies. If you try to pour in more candies than the jar can hold, they spill over the sides. This is similar to what happens in binary overflow — if your sum exceeds the container (your allotted bits), the excess can't be counted and results in misleading numbers. It's a significant concept in programming because ensuring you don't exceed your 'jar capacity' keeps data precise and manageable!

Floating Point Representation Overview

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So, how we are going to do it? This is basically in floating point number we use this particular representation. So, most significant bit is always used to indicate the sign bit whether it is positive numbers or negative numbers 0 means positive 1 means negative then we are having some exponent part we say it is a biased exponent we will see and we are having the significant part.

Detailed Explanation

In this chunk, we begin to dive into floating point representations of numbers, which allows for the representation of very large or very small values more flexibly than fixed-point systems. Floating point representation allocates a portion of the number for the sign (positive or negative), a portion for the exponent (which dictates the scale of the number), and a portion for the mantissa (the significant digits). It has applications across various scientific computations, particularly when precision matters.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine you are a scientist measuring distances in space. You don't always need to write full numbers like 0.000000001 meter; instead, you use scientific notation, like 1 × 10^-9, which expresses it compactly and can easily denote both large and small scales. Floating-point representation in computers mirrors this method, allowing it to handle a wide range without losing track of where each number stands, making calculations efficient and manageable!

Definitions & Key Concepts

Learn essential terms and foundational ideas that form the basis of the topic.

Key Concepts

  • Binary Representation: The foundational number system using only 0s and 1s for digital computing.

  • Hexadecimal Representation: A simplified method for representing binary numbers using base-16.

  • Two's Complement: A way to represent both positive and negative integers in binary form, facilitating arithmetic.

  • Range of Integers: The limits of integers that can be represented depending on bit size and representation method.

  • Overflow: A critical concept indicating when a calculation exceeds representable limits.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.

Examples

  • Binary representation of 255 is 11111111; in hexadecimal it is FF.

  • In two's complement, the binary number for -1 is 11111111.

  • The representation of 8-bit integers covers a range of -128 to 127.

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • In binary, we write with 0 or 1, Hex simplifies, making math more fun!

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine two brothers, sign and magnitude, who couldn't agree. Sign wanted to show all numbers, but magnitude said let's keep it neat!

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • To remember the order of operations: 'Fold (flip the bits), Add (plus one) to negate!'

🎯 Super Acronyms

BTHS

  • Binary
  • Two's complement
  • Hexadecimal
  • Sign-bit - the essentials of number system.

Flash Cards

Review key concepts with flashcards.

Glossary of Terms

Review the Definitions for terms.

  • Term: Binary

    Definition:

    A number system that uses only two digits: 0 and 1.

  • Term: Hexadecimal

    Definition:

    A base-16 number system that uses the digits 0-9 and letters A-F.

  • Term: Two's Complement

    Definition:

    A method for representing signed integers in binary that allows for easy arithmetic operations.

  • Term: Sign Bit

    Definition:

    The most significant bit in a binary representation indicating the sign of the number.

  • Term: Overflow

    Definition:

    A condition when a calculation exceeds the maximum representable value.

  • Term: Fixed Point Representation

    Definition:

    A representation of real numbers where the decimal point's position is fixed.

  • Term: Floating Point Representation

    Definition:

    A representation of real numbers that allows the decimal point to