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Design of Digital Computers pp 5–22Cite as

Number Systems and Number Representations

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Abstract

The familiar decimal system is by no means the only possible number system. Considered impartially, it merely constitutes one among possible and practical systems which became propagated, probably for the sole reason that human beings happen to have ten fingers. The Mayas used the vigesimal number system (based upon 20, i.e. fingers and toes) [1] and even in our days, there are some endeavors to introduce the duodecimal system (based on 12) for general use [2]. Since computers are not bound by tradition and since the decimal system has no unique merits, the designer of a computer is free to select that number system which suits his purpose best.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Engineering Development Division, Computation Directorate, Air Force Missile Development Center, Mexico

    Hans W. Gschwind (Chief, Adjunct Professor of Electrical Engineering)

  2. University of New Mexico, Mexico

    Hans W. Gschwind (Chief, Adjunct Professor of Electrical Engineering)

Authors
  1. Hans W. Gschwind
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© 1967 Springer-Verlag Wien

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Gschwind, H.W. (1967). Number Systems and Number Representations. In: Design of Digital Computers. Springer, Vienna. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7091-3369-9_2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7091-3369-9_2

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Vienna

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-7091-3370-5

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-7091-3369-9

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

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