8-bit

An 8-bit system refers to a way computers process and store data using eight binary digits (bits). Each bit can be either a 0 or a 1, so 8 bits can represent 256 different values (from 0 to 255). This is common in early computers and devices, affecting how much information they can handle at once. Think of it like a small set of switches that can be turned on or off, controlling the information processed. Modern systems often use more bits for greater capacity, but 8-bit remains fundamental to understanding basic digital data.