Joachim Schrod wrote:
> Hans Witvliet wrote:
>>
>>
>> And btw, "B" is for bytes (octets) and "b" for bits
>> The term "Byte" comes from by-eight.
> 
> Do your have any reference for that?
> 
> A byte is the basic addressing unit of memory, that's all. 
> 

Well, my instructors in the early '70's told me that a byte was
analogous to "bite" -- not the smallest "bit" accessible, but smaller
than the full-size "word" of most architectures of the time.  And some
architectures do allow you direct access to a bit.

bit: smallest piece
bite or byte: manageable chunk to chew on
steak or word: full-size portion

(the culinary examples are my own)

-- 

John Perry
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