Convert numbers between Hexadecimal (base-16), Decimal (base-10), and Binary (base-2) formats. Essential tool for programmers and computer science.
Hexadecimal Converter (Hex / Dec / Bin)
Convert numbers between the most common bases used in computing: Hexadecimal (base-16), Decimal (base-10), and Binary (base-2).
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Understanding Number Bases (Hex, Dec, Bin)
Computers fundamentally operate using binary (base-2), but humans typically use decimal (base-10). Hexadecimal (base-16) serves as a convenient, more compact way to represent binary data.
- Decimal (Dec): Base-10. Uses digits 0-9. This is the standard number system we use daily.
- Binary (Bin): Base-2. Uses digits 0 and 1. This is the fundamental language of digital computers.
- Hexadecimal (Hex): Base-16. Uses digits 0-9 and letters A-F (where A=10, B=11, ..., F=15). Each hex digit represents exactly 4 binary digits (bits), making it easy to convert between hex and binary.
Common Uses:
- Hex: Representing memory addresses, color codes (Hex color triplets like #FF0000), character encodings, and raw data in programming and debugging.
- Binary: Understanding low-level computer operations, bitwise logic, network masks, file permissions.
- Decimal: General calculations and everyday use.
This hex converter allows easy switching between these crucial formats (hex to decimal, decimal to hex, hex to binary, etc.). It's a fundamental number base converter for anyone in programming or computer science.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why use Hexadecimal instead of Binary?
Hexadecimal is much shorter and easier for humans to read and write than long strings of binary digits. Since 1 hex digit = 4 binary digits, conversion is straightforward, making hex a compact representation of binary data.
What do the letters A-F mean in Hex?
They represent decimal values: A=10, B=11, C=12, D=13, E=14, F=15.
How do I convert Hex color codes like #FF9900?
Hex color codes are typically three pairs of hex digits representing Red, Green, and Blue values (e.g., FF=Red, 99=Green, 00=Blue). Each pair ranges from 00 (0 decimal) to FF (255 decimal). This tool converts the *numeric value* of a hex string, not specifically color codes (though you could convert FF, 99, and 00 individually).
Are negative numbers supported?
This converter primarily handles non-negative integers. Representing negative numbers in binary and hex often involves methods like Two's Complement, which adds complexity not covered by this basic tool.
