Digital Information

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Encoding Noun

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[en-koh-ding]

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Encoding

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The process of converting data from one form to another for the purpose of storage, reproduction, or transmission.

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Example: This image shows a name tag where a person's name is replaced by binary code, illustrating how information is encoded into a digital format.

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Analog Information Noun

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[an-uh-log in-fer-mey-shun]

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Analog Information

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Information represented by a continuously variable physical quantity, like the position of clock hands or a groove on a record.

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Example: This continuous, smooth wave represents analog information, which can have any value over time, unlike digital information that has separate, distinct steps.

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Digital Information Noun

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[dij-i-tl in-fer-mey-shun]

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Digital Information

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Information represented by a discrete variable quantity, typically encoded in a binary format of 0s and 1s.

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Example: This diagram shows how digital information is stored as binary code (1s and 0s) by converting an 8-bit number into its decimal equivalent.

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Bit Noun

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[bit]

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Bit

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The smallest unit of digital information, equivalent to a binary choice between two alternatives like 0 or 1.

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Example: A bit is the smallest unit of digital information and can have one of two values: 0 or 1.

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Byte Noun

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[bahyt]

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Byte

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A unit of digital information consisting of an array of eight bits that are read together as a single unit.

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Example: This image shows that each character of text you type, like the letter 'S', is stored in a computer's memory as a unique number, which is a byte.

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Binary Noun

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[bahy-nuh-ree]

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Binary

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A number system that uses only two digits, 0 and 1, to represent all values in computing.

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Example: This diagram shows an 8-digit binary number (a byte) and breaks down how it works, with each position representing a power of two.

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Pixel Noun

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[pik-suhl]

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Pixel

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The smallest individual part or dot, short for 'picture element,' that combines with others to make up a digital image.

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Example: A digital image is made up of many tiny squares of color called pixels, which are arranged in a grid to form the complete picture.

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Resolution Noun

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[rez-uh-loo-shun]

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Resolution

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A measure of the clarity and detail of a digital image, often expressed by the total number of pixels.

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Example: This image is made of large, visible squares called pixels, which makes it look blocky. This blockiness is an example of low resolution.

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Information Density Noun

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[in-fer-mey-shun den-si-tee]

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Information Density

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The amount of data stored in a given space or medium, such as the number of pixels within an image.

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Example: This image shows that as DPI (dots per inch) increases, more information (dots) is packed into the same area, which increases the information density.

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Sampling Noun

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[sam-pling]

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Sampling

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The act of capturing the value of a continuous analog signal at a precise point to convert it into digital data.

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Example: This digital thermometer takes a measurement, or a 'sample,' of the temperature at a single point in time, converting it into digital information.