Definition

Noun: A fixed-point representation system is a method for representing numbers within a computer or numerical system where the position of the radix point (e.g., decimal point or binary point) is predetermined and fixed. The number of digits allocated for the integer part and the fractional part is set by convention and does not change.

Usage

This term is used primarily in computing, digital electronics, and numerical analysis to describe a specific format for storing and calculating with non-integer numbers.

Examples

• Early digital computers often used a fixed-point representation system for arithmetic to simplify hardware design.
• In a fixed-point representation system with 8 bits for the integer part and 8 bits for the fraction, the number 12.75 has a fixed, predefined location for the decimal point.
• The programmer must understand the limitations of range and precision inherent in their chosen fixed-point representation system.

Advanced Usage

• Contrast with Floating-Point: A fixed-point representation system is often contrasted with a , where the position of the radix point can vary, allowing for a much wider range of values at the cost of more complex processing.
• Embedded Systems: Fixed-point representation systems are frequently employed in embedded systems, digital signal processors (DSPs), and financial applications where predictable performance and exact decimal representation (e.g., for currency) are more critical than a huge dynamic range.

Variants and Related Words

• Fixed-point arithmetic (n): The branch of computer arithmetic concerning calculations performed on numbers in a fixed-point representation system.
• Fixed-point number (n): A specific number expressed within a fixed-point representation system.

Synonyms

• Fixed-point notation
• Fixed-point number system

Antonyms

• Floating-point representation system

Noun

1. a radix numeration system in which the location of the decimal point is fixed by convention