How data needs to be converted into a binary format to be processed by a computer

1.2.3 Units

Units — Note 2 of 3

What you need to know

All data in a computer must be stored in binary (0s and 1s) because computer hardware uses electronic switches (transistors) that have only two states: on (1) and off (0). This includes numbers, text, images, and sound.

What to know

Binary has only two states: 0 and 1, which map directly to the on/off states of electronic components (transistors).
This simplicity makes it easier to design, build, and maintain reliable computer hardware.
ALL data — numbers, text, images, sound — must be converted to binary before a computer can process it.

Key terms

Exam tipCommon mistake

BinaryBase 2: A number system that uses only the digits 0 and 1, which computers use to represent all data and instructions.
Exam tip: If asked WHY computers use binary, always link it to hardware: transistors/switches have two states (on/off), making binary the natural choice.

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