GCSEComputer ScienceEdexcelRevision Notes2. DataBinaryBit Patterns

Bit Patterns (Edexcel GCSE Computer Science)

Revision Note

Robert Hampton

Bit Patterns

What is a bit pattern?

  • A bit pattern is a collection of binary numbers

  • Everything in a computer has to be stored as a series of 1s and 0s

  • The way the computer interprets the numbers determines the outcome

  • Examples of this include

    • Representing ASCII characters

    • A hexadecimal value

    • An image

Examples

Binary Value

Process

Output

01000001

ASCII Character Set

A

01000001

Hexadecimal Conversion

4 1

01000001

B&W image using 1 bit per pixel

8 pixels

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    Robert Hampton

    Author: Robert Hampton

    Expertise: Computer Science Content Creator

    Rob has over 16 years' experience teaching Computer Science and ICT at KS3 & GCSE levels. Rob has demonstrated strong leadership as Head of Department since 2012 and previously supported teacher development as a Specialist Leader of Education, empowering departments to excel in Computer Science. Beyond his tech expertise, Robert embraces the virtual world as an avid gamer, conquering digital battlefields when he's not coding.

    James Woodhouse

    Author: James Woodhouse

    Expertise: Computer Science

    James graduated from the University of Sunderland with a degree in ICT and Computing education. He has over 14 years of experience both teaching and leading in Computer Science, specialising in teaching GCSE and A-level. James has held various leadership roles, including Head of Computer Science and coordinator positions for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. James has a keen interest in networking security and technologies aimed at preventing security breaches.