Bit specification

In computing, bit specification may mean:

• Computer hardware or software capabilities or design features expressed in terms of bit counts. Higher bit specification (e.g. 16-bit vs. 8-bit) usually indicates better performance. Examples:
  • Color depth
  • Computer bus size
  • Processor register size
  • Sound quality
• Specification or datasheet where the meaning of individual bits in a larger, for example byte-length, message is described. Bit specifications are often required to document low-level device control or data transmission protocols. See bit manipulation.