When you build a memory chip, the input is X number of address bits, and you have to return 2 ** X number of unique storage bytes. If the next chip will allow 1 more bit, you have to hold twice as many storage locations. So memory chips *MUST* be a multiple of 2. Examples are 10 address bits, 1,024 locations. 20 address bits, 1,048,576. 30 address bits, 1,073,741,824 locations.
When you build a computer disk, you can to return any number of 512 byte sectors, or 4096 byte sectors for newer drives. If you need to define it in terms of Cylinders, Heads, and Sectors, you round down to the next multiple. On Fri, May 3, 2013 at 3:35 PM, Kirk Talman <rkueb...@tsys.com> wrote: > I am curious. I know and understand that 1234567 = 1234.567K = 1.234567M > > But is the notation such that 1234567 = 1205.657Ki? And how would one > write the Mi value to as many places? > > And how are fractional parts handled in "binary" notation? The link below > did not say. And the example about 1.44 MB diskette was not helpful. > > I am guessing that this is a kind of unnatural blend (cross-breed) between > decimal and "binary prefix" notation. -- Mike A Schwab, Springfield IL USA Where do Forest Rangers go to get away from it all? ---------------------------------------------------------------------- For IBM-MAIN subscribe / signoff / archive access instructions, send email to lists...@listserv.ua.edu with the message: INFO IBM-MAIN
