Since a byte can represent 256 different numbers, why is its maximum value 127?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for clarification on why a byte, which can represent 256 different values, has a maximum value of 127 in a specific context, likely relating to signed integers. Typically, a byte can hold values from 0 to 255 when unsigned. However, when dealing with signed representation (for instance, using two's complement), the values range from -128 to 127.
Answer
A byte's max value is 127 in signed form, due to two's complement representation.
The maximum value of a byte is 127 when it's signed due to how two's complement representation works. In an 8-bit signed byte, 128 negative values (-128 to -1) and zero are included, leaving 127 for positive values.
Answer for screen readers
The maximum value of a byte is 127 when it's signed due to how two's complement representation works. In an 8-bit signed byte, 128 negative values (-128 to -1) and zero are included, leaving 127 for positive values.
More Information
The range from -128 to 127 is due to the two's complement notation, which handles negative numbers in binary systems. This is a common practice for signed numbers, where zero takes one of the number representations.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing signed and unsigned byte values. For unsigned, the range is 0 to 255.
Sources
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