The Bitwise Calculator helps you perform bitwise AND, OR, and XOR operations on integers. Enter two numbers, choose a number system and bit width, and see the result instantly in decimal, binary, hexadecimal, and octal formats. It’s useful for programmers, students, and anyone learning how computers work with binary data.
Bitwise Calculator
Bitwise operations compare the binary digits of two integers. Fixed-width modes mask the inputs to the selected number of bits. Auto mode uses the full non-negative integer values.
Calculation Result
How to Use the Bitwise Calculator
Using this bitwise calculator is simple:
- Choose the bit width: Select 4-bit, 8-bit, 12-bit, 16-bit, or Auto mode.
- Select the number system: Choose binary, octal, or decimal based on your input.
- Enter two numbers: Type your values into the Number 1 and Number 2 fields.
- Select an operation: Choose AND, OR, or XOR.
- View the result: The calculator updates automatically and displays the answer along with its binary, hexadecimal, and octal representations.
Use Clear All to remove the inputs or Reload Defaults to restore the original example.
Bitwise Operation Examples
Here are three simple examples using the binary values 1100 and 1010.
| Operation | Binary Result | Decimal Result |
|---|---|---|
AND (&) | 1000 | 8 |
OR (|) | 1110 | 14 |
XOR (^) | 0110 | 6 |
AND returns 1 when both corresponding bits are 1. OR returns 1 when at least one of the bits is 1. XOR returns 1 when the two bits are different.
Understanding Bit Width
Bit width determines how many binary digits are used to represent a value. For example, an 8-bit unsigned value can represent numbers from 0 to 255. When you select a fixed bit width, this calculator masks the inputs to that width before performing the operation.
Auto mode does not apply a fixed-width mask, so it can handle larger non-negative integers without limiting them to 4, 8, 12, or 16 bits.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a bitwise calculator?
A bitwise calculator performs operations directly on the binary digits of integers. It is commonly used in programming, computer science, digital electronics, and low-level data processing.
2. What is the difference between AND, OR, and XOR?
AND returns 1 when both bits are 1. OR returns 1 when either or both bits are 1. XOR returns 1 when the bits differ.
3. Can I use binary, octal, and decimal numbers?
Yes. Select the appropriate input number system before entering your numbers. The calculator accepts binary digits (0 and 1), octal digits (0–7), or decimal digits (0–9).
4. What does 8-bit mode mean?
8-bit mode limits each input to its lowest 8 bits before calculating the result. This corresponds to an unsigned range of 0 to 255.
5. What does Auto mode do?
Auto mode removes the fixed bit-width limit. It performs the selected operation using the full non-negative integer values entered, subject to your browser’s available resources.
6. Can this calculator handle large integers?
Yes. It uses JavaScript’s BigInt feature to perform bitwise operations on large integers without the usual 32-bit limitation of JavaScript’s standard number-based bitwise operators.
7. Is this bitwise calculator free to use?
Yes. You can use the calculator directly in your browser without installing software or creating an account.
8. Does the calculator update automatically?
Yes. The result, binary visualization, and alternative number-system representations update whenever you change an input, operation, number system, or bit width.
Disclaimer: This calculator is intended for educational and general programming use. Results depend on the selected number system and bit width. Always verify calculations when working with critical software, hardware, or production systems.