answersLogoWhite

0

It is easier to store data and instructions as a series of two-valued (binary) states. These may be holes or no holes in the cards or paper tapes of the 1960s and 70s, or magnetised and not magnetised states (for magnetic tapes), pits and no pits for CDs and so on.

It is possible, in theory , to store information as a set of different levels (of voltage or whatever) but these will degrade over time. The difference between two extreme values is the most robust and so carries the lowest risk of data corruption or errors.

User Avatar

Wiki User

8y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

ProfessorProfessor
I will give you the most educated answer.
Chat with Professor
RossRoss
Every question is just a happy little opportunity.
Chat with Ross
TaigaTaiga
Every great hero faces trials, and you—yes, YOU—are no exception!
Chat with Taiga

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Why does a computer use the binary number system?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp