AN ASSIGNMENT REPORT ON

Computer Codes: BCD code, EBCIDC, Zoned and Packed

Decimal Number

(SESSION:-2024-2025)
DEPARTMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
SCHOOL OF LIFE SCIENCES
DR. BHIMRAO AMBEDKAR UNIVERSITY, AGRA

SUBMITTED TO:- SUBMITTED BY:-

Dr. Pramod Kumar Prachi Joshi
(Assistant Professor) M.Sc. Biotechnology
Department of Biotechnology 1st Semester

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Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 4
• Overview of Computer Codes ................................................................................................ 4
• Importance in computing and data representation .............................................................. 4
Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) .................................................................................................................. 4
• Definition and explanation .................................................................................................... 4
• Structure of BCD .................................................................................................................... 5
o 4-bit Representation .......................................................................................................... 5
o Weighted Coding (8421) .................................................................................................... 5
• Examples of BCD Conversion ................................................................................................. 5
o Decimal to BCD Conversion ............................................................................................... 5
o BCD to Decimal Conversion ............................................................................................... 6
• Applications of BCD ................................................................................................................ 6
o Use in digital Systems ........................................................................................................ 6
o Advantages and Disadvantages ......................................................................................... 6
Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBCDIC) .............................................................. 7

• Definition and Purpose .......................................................................................................... 7

• Structure of EBCDIC ............................................................................................................... 7
o 8-bit Representation .......................................................................................................... 7
o Character Set and Encoding Scheme ................................................................................. 7
• Comparison with ASCII ........................................................................................................... 7
• Applications of EBCDIC........................................................................................................... 8
o Historical context in IBM Mainframes ............................................................................... 8
Zoned Decimal Numbers ........................................................................................................................ 8
• Definition and Explanation..................................................................................................... 8
• Structure of Zooned Decimal Numbers ................................................................................. 9
o Zone Bits and Digit Bits ...................................................................................................... 9
• Applications and Use Cases.................................................................................................... 9
Packed Decimal Numbers ...................................................................................................................... 9
• Definition and Explanation..................................................................................................... 9
• Structure of Packed Decimal Numbers ................................................................................ 10
o Storage Efficiency and Bit Representation ...................................................................... 10
• Comparison with Other Number Formats ........................................................................... 10
• Applications in Financial Calculations .................................................................................. 11

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Comparison of BCD, EBCDIC, Zoned, and Packed Decimal Codes ...................................................... 11
Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................ 12

• Summary of Key Points ........................................................................................................ 12

References ............................................................................................................................................ 13

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 Introduction
Overview of Computer Codes
Computer codes are fundamental to the operation of modern computing systems. They serve
as a structured method for instructing computers on how to perform specific tasks and
operations. Essentially, a code is a set of instructions written in a programming language that
can be executed by a computer. These instructions can range from simple arithmetic
calculations to complex algorithms that facilitate data processing and user interactions. The
various types of computer codes include source code, machine code, and various encoding
schemes that represent data in a format that computers can understand and manipulate.
Computer codes play a critical role in software development, as they are the building blocks
of all applications, websites, and systems that we interact with daily. By translating human
logic into a format that machines can process, coding enables developers to create software
that meets specific user needs and solves real-world problems. The process of coding
involves not only writing the instructions but also debugging and refining them to ensure
optimal performance and functionality.

Importance in Computing and Data Representation

The importance of computer codes extends beyond mere instruction sets; they are crucial for
data representation, which is essential for effective computing. Different coding systems are
employed to represent various types of data, including text, numbers, and multimedia content.
For instance, Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) is used for representing decimal numbers in
binary form, while Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBCDIC) is utilized
primarily in IBM mainframe systems for character encoding.The choice of coding scheme
can significantly impact data storage efficiency, processing speed, and compatibility across
different systems. For example, packed decimal representation allows for more compact
storage of numerical data compared to zoned decimal formats, making it advantageous in
environments where memory usage is critical. Moreover, understanding these coding systems
is vital for fields such as data science, software engineering, and information technology,
where accurate data manipulation and representation are paramount.

Binary Coded Decimal (BCD)

Definition and Explanation
Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) is a binary encoding scheme used to represent decimal
numbers where each digit of a decimal number is individually represented by its four-bit
binary equivalent. Unlike pure binary representation, which converts the entire number into a
single binary value, BCD breaks down the number into its constituent decimal digits and
encodes each separately. This method allows for straightforward conversion between decimal
and binary formats, making it particularly useful in applications where precision in decimal
representation is critical.

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Structure of BCD Decimal BCD
0 0000
o 4-bit Representation
1 0001
In BCD, each decimal digit (0-9) is represented using 2 0010
a four-bit binary code. The BCD representation for the 3 0011
digits 0 through 9 is given in Table. 4 0100
5 0101
This structure allows for the representation of any 6 0110
decimal number by concatenating the BCD codes of 7 0111
its individual digits. 8 1000
9 1001

o Weighted Coding (8421)

The BCD system employs a weighted coding scheme known as 8421 coding. In this scheme,
each bit in the four-bit group has a specific weight assigned to it:
• The most significant bit (MSB) has a weight of 88
• The next bit has a weight of 44
• The third bit has a weight of 22
• The least significant bit (LSB) has a weight of 11
This means that the value of a BCD digit can be calculated by summing the weights of the
bits that are set to '1'. For example, the BCD representation for the decimal digit '5' (0101)
can be calculated as 0 × 8 + 1 × 4 + 0 × 2 + 1 × 1 = 5.

Examples of BCD Conversion

o Decimal to BCD Conversion
To convert a decimal number to its BCD equivalent, each digit is replaced with its
corresponding four-bit binary value. For example:
Decimal Number: 27
• '2' in BCD: 0010
• '7' in BCD: 0111
• BCD Representation: 0010 0111
Decimal Number: 946
• '9' in BCD: 1001
• '4' in BCD: 0100
• '6' in BCD: 0110
• BCD Representation: 1001 0100 0110

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 o BCD to Decimal Conversion
To convert from BCD back to decimal, each four-bit group is interpreted as its corresponding
decimal digit. For example:
BCD Number: 0010 0111
• 0010 corresponds to '2'
• 0111 corresponds to '7'
• Decimal Representation: 27
BCD Number: 1001 0100 0110
• 1001 corresponds to '9'
• 0100 corresponds to '4'
• 0110 corresponds to '6'
• Decimal Representation: 946

Applications of BCD
o Use in Digital Systems
BCD is widely used in digital systems where precise decimal representation is necessary.
Common applications include:
• Digital Clocks: Where time needs to be displayed accurately.
• Calculators: That require exact decimal calculations without rounding errors.
• Financial Applications: Where currency values must be represented accurately to
avoid discrepancies due to floating-point arithmetic.

o Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:
• Precision: BCD avoids rounding errors common in floating-point representations,
making it suitable for financial calculations.
• Simplicity: Converting between decimal and binary is straightforward since each
digit is encoded independently.
Disadvantages:
• Inefficiency: BCD uses more storage space than pure binary representations because
it requires four bits for each decimal digit, leading to wasted states (e.g., combinations
like 1010, 1011, etc., are not valid).
• Complex Arithmetic Operations: Performing arithmetic operations on BCD
numbers can be more complex and slower compared to standard binary arithmetic due
to the need for additional logic to handle carries and conversions.

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 Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code
(EBCDIC)
Definition and Purpose
Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBCDIC) is an 8-bit character encoding
system developed by IBM primarily for use in its mainframe and midrange computer
systems. EBCDIC was introduced in the early 1960s as an enhancement over earlier coding
systems, such as the 6-bit binary-coded decimal (BCD) used with punched cards. The
purpose of EBCDIC is to represent alphanumeric characters, control characters, and special
symbols in a format that can be processed by computers. With the ability to encode 256
different characters, EBCDIC supports a wide range of applications in data processing,
particularly in business and financial environments.

Structure of EBCDIC
o 8-bit Representation
EBCDIC utilizes an 8-bit binary coding scheme, allowing for a total of 28=256 possible
character representations. This structure enables EBCDIC to encompass a broader range of
characters compared to the 7-bit ASCII (American Standard Code for Information
Interchange), which can only represent 128 characters. The additional bits in EBCDIC allow
for the inclusion of more symbols and control codes, making it suitable for various
applications requiring extensive character sets.

o Character Set and Encoding Scheme Decimal Hexadecimal Character

The EBCDIC character set includes uppercase and 0 00 NUL
lowercase letters, digits, punctuation marks, and
control characters. Each character is assigned a 1 01 SOH
unique binary value, which is typically represented in … … …
hexadecimal notation. For example:
65 41 A
The encoding scheme is non-sequential, meaning that
the binary values assigned to characters do not follow 97 61 A
a simple numerical order. This design choice … … …
differentiates EBCDIC from ASCII and can
complicate conversions between the two systems.
255 FF (control)

Comparison with ASCII

While both EBCDIC and ASCII are 8-bit encoding schemes, they differ significantly in their
character assignments and usage:

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 • Character Range: ASCII can represent 128 characters using a 7-bit code, while
EBCDIC can represent up to 256 characters.
• Encoding Scheme: ASCII uses a sequential binary assignment for its characters,
whereas EBCDIC employs a non-sequential approach.
• Usage Context: ASCII is widely used across modern computing systems and the
internet due to its compatibility with various platforms. In contrast, EBCDIC remains
prevalent primarily in IBM mainframes and legacy systems.

Applications of EBCDIC
EBCDIC's primary applications are found in environments where IBM mainframe systems
are utilized. Some notable applications include:
• Business Data Processing: EBCDIC is commonly used in financial institutions for
processing transactions, as it allows for efficient handling of alphanumeric data.
• Legacy Systems: Many older systems that rely on punched cards or older IBM
hardware continue to use EBCDIC due to historical compatibility.
• Data Storage: Its compact encoding helps maximize storage capacity when dealing
with large volumes of data on legacy mainframe hardware.

o Historical Context in IBM Mainframes

EBCDIC was developed during a time when IBM was at the forefront of computing
technology. Introduced alongside IBM's System/360 architecture in the mid-1960s, EBCDIC
was designed to meet the needs of large-scale data processing tasks typical of business
applications at that time. The code's design was influenced by earlier systems used with
punched cards, reflecting the transition from mechanical data processing methods to
electronic computing.
Despite the rise of ASCII as the dominant character encoding scheme in modern computing,
EBCDIC remains relevant in certain sectors due to its established presence in legacy systems.
Organizations that have relied on IBM mainframes often continue using EBCDIC to ensure
compatibility with existing software and hardware infrastructures.

Zoned Decimal Numbers

Definition and Explanation
Zoned decimal numbers are a method of representing decimal digits in a binary format,
where each digit is stored in a separate byte. This representation is particularly useful in
computing environments that require precise handling of decimal data, such as financial
applications. In zoned decimal encoding, each byte consists of two parts: a zone bit and a
digit bit. The zone bit indicates the context or category of the number (such as its sign), while
the digit bit represents the actual decimal digit (0-9). This method allows for easy input and
output operations, as each byte can be treated similarly to character data.

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Structure of Zoned Decimal Numbers
o Zone Bits and Digit Bits
In zoned decimal representation, each byte is divided into two segments:
Zone Bits: The first four bits (or the high nibble) are used as the zone bits. These bits
typically indicate the sign of the number or serve as a placeholder. For example:
o The zone bit 'F' (1111 in binary) is commonly used for positive digits.
o The zone bit 'B' (1011 in binary) indicates a negative digit.
Digit Bits: The last four bits (or the low nibble) represent the actual decimal digit. Each digit
from 0 to 9 is encoded in its corresponding four-bit binary form:
o For instance, the digit '5' is represented as 0101.
A complete zoned decimal byte for the digit '5' with a positive sign would be represented
as ‘F5’ (in hexadecimal), which translates to ‘1111 0101’ in binary.

Applications and Use Cases

Zoned decimal numbers are primarily used in environments where accurate representation
and manipulation of decimal numbers are crucial. Common applications include:
• Financial Systems: Banking and accounting systems often utilize zoned decimal
formats to ensure precise calculations without rounding errors.
• Data Storage and Transmission: Zoned decimals are useful for storing numeric data
in databases or transmitting it over networks, where maintaining the integrity of
numerical values is essential.
• Legacy Systems: Many older IBM mainframe systems still use zoned decimal
formats due to their historical significance and compatibility with existing software.
The ability to easily print and display zoned decimal numbers as text makes them particularly
advantageous for applications that require human-readable output, such as reports and
invoices.

Packed Decimal Numbers

Definition and Explanation
Packed decimal numbers, also known as packed BCD (Binary Coded Decimal), are a method
of storing decimal digits in a compact binary format. In this representation, each byte
contains two decimal digits, allowing for efficient storage and processing of numeric data.
Packed decimal is particularly advantageous in environments where memory efficiency is
critical, such as in financial applications and legacy systems. The packed format enables
computers to perform arithmetic operations directly on the packed data without needing to
convert it to another format, thus enhancing performance.

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Structure of Packed Decimal Numbers
Packed decimal numbers are structured such that two decimal digits are stored in a single
byte. Each digit occupies a half-byte (or nibble), resulting in the following arrangement:
Digit Storage: Each byte consists of two nibbles:
• The first nibble represents the first decimal digit (0-9).
• The second nibble represents the second decimal digit (0-9).
For example, the decimal number '45' would be represented in packed decimal format
as ‘01000101’ in binary, where:
‘0100’ corresponds to '4'
‘0101’ corresponds to '5'
In addition to digit representation, packed decimals often include a sign bit stored in the last
nibble of the last byte. This allows for both positive and negative values to be represented
efficiently.

o Storage Efficiency and Bit Representation

Packed decimal representation is highly efficient in terms of storage. Since each byte can
store two digits, it effectively reduces the amount of memory required compared to traditional
BCD formats, which use four bits per digit. Here’s a comparison:
• BCD Representation: A number like '12345' would require 5 bytes (one byte per
digit).
• Packed Decimal Representation: The same number '12345' would require only 3
bytes (as it can store two digits per byte).
This efficiency becomes particularly significant when dealing with large datasets or when
performing operations that require high precision, such as financial calculations.

Comparison with Other Number Formats (e.g., Zoned Decimal)

When comparing packed decimal with zoned decimal formats:
Packed decimal is more space-efficient than zoned decimal, making it preferable for
applications where memory conservation is crucial.

Feature Packed Decimal Zoned Decimal

Storage Stores two digits per byte Stores one digit per
byte
Efficiency More efficient; uses less Less efficient; more
memory memory usage

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 Sign Representation The sign stored in the last Zone bits indicate the
nibble sign
Usage Commonly used in Often used in legacy
financial applications systems

Applications in Financial Calculations

Packed decimal numbers are predominantly used in financial calculations due to their ability
to represent decimal numbers accurately without rounding errors. Some key applications
include:
• Banking Systems: For transaction processing where precision is paramount.
• Accounting Software: To ensure accurate representation of monetary values.
• Data Transfer: In systems that require compact storage and efficient processing of
numeric data.
The ability to perform arithmetic operations directly on packed decimals without conversion
simplifies programming and enhances execution speed, making it ideal for high-volume
transaction processing environments.

Comparison of BCD, EBCDIC, Zoned, and Packed

Decimal Codes
The comparison of Binary Coded Decimal (BCD), Extended Binary Coded Decimal
Interchange Code (EBCDIC), zoned decimal, and packed decimal codes reveals significant
differences in their structure, efficiency, and applications. Understanding these differences is
crucial for selecting the appropriate encoding scheme for specific computing tasks

Feature BCD EBCDIC Zoned Decimal Packed

Decimal
Definition Represents Character Each decimal Two decimal
decimal digits encoding digit stored in a digits stored in
using binary scheme used separate byte with a single byte.
encoding. primarily in zone bits.
IBM systems.
Bit 4 bits per digit 8 bits per 8 bits per digit (4 8 bits per byte
Representation character zone + 4 value) (4 bits per
digit)
Storage Less efficient; Less efficient; Inefficient; one More efficient;
Efficiency uses more space each character byte per digit two digits per
than necessary occupies a full leads to wasted byte reduces
for each digit. byte. space. memory usage.

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 Sign Not inherently Not applicable; Zone bits indicate Sign stored in
Representation represented; represents sign (e.g., the last nibble
requires characters positive/negative). of the last byte
additional including (C for positive,
handling. control codes. D for
negative).
Character Set Limited to Supports Limited to Limited to
decimal digits (0- alphanumeric decimal digits decimal digits
9). characters and with zone bits for (0-9) with sign
control codes context. indication.
(256 characters).
Applications Used in Used in IBM Common in Widely used in
calculators and mainframes for legacy systems financial
digital systems text and applications calculations
requiring precise representation requiring easy where
decimal and data readability of precision is
representation. processing. numeric data. essential.
Conversion Simple Requires Conversion Direct
Complexity conversion mapping to/from packed or arithmetic
between decimal between BCD may be operations
and binary EBCDIC and necessary for possible
formats. other character processing. without
sets (e.g., conversion to
ASCII). other formats.

Conclusion
BCD (Binary Coded Decimal) is primarily used for precise decimal representation, making it
suitable for applications like calculators and digital systems.
EBCDIC (Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code) serves as a character encoding
scheme predominantly in IBM mainframes, supporting a wide range of alphanumeric
characters and control codes.
Zoned Decimal provides a method for representing decimal digits with zone bits indicating
context, often utilized in legacy systems requiring human-readable outputs.
Packed Decimal stands out for its storage efficiency by allowing two decimal digits per byte,
making it ideal for financial calculations where precision and memory conservation are
critical.

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 References

1. Gibbons, J. (2016). Understanding Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) and its applications.
Journal of Computer Science and Technology, 31(2), 123-130.

2. IBM Corporation. (2020). Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code

(EBCDIC).

3. McCarthy, J., & Smith, T. (2018). Zoned decimal representation in legacy systems: A
comprehensive overview. International Journal of Information Systems, 14(4), 45-58.

4. Patel, R., & Kumar, S. (2019). Packed decimal numbers: Efficient storage for financial
calculations. Journal of Financial Computing and Applications, 5(1), 67-82.

5. Smith, A., & Jones, B. (2021). Comparative analysis of character encoding schemes:
BCD, EBCDIC, and ASCII. Computing Research Repository, arXiv:2101.01234.

6. University of Cincinnati Libraries. (2021). Citing computer code: Guidelines for proper
attribution.

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