Introduction

Earlier parts of this section have been explaining how binary is the basis of all computers and digital devices. However, a binary number is a purely mathematical idea. It is a base 2 number system that has only two values 0 and 1.

This is an 8 bit binary number: 10101111 - how does this become so important in our everyday lives?

This section explains how a simple binary number can get to control everything from our mobile phones to a nuclear power station, from our health services to the internet.