All data stored and processed by digital computers exist as binary (base 2) numbers. In the binary system, the only numbers are 0s and 1s. This means that all computer data (numbers, words/text, pictures, sounds, video) consists of some combination of 0s and 1s.
Nonetheless, it is important to understand the way in which these various types of data are stored, processed and delivered by computers. Only by understanding these various digital formats can you put them to good use.
This unit includes the following seven modules, each covering one of the primary data file formats used by computers. Click on the module title to link to it:
© Craig L. Scanlan, 2001. Version 2.0 - January 2002. Original version January 2001.