24bit

24-bit denotes a unit of information equal to 2^24 possible values. It is used in multiple domains, notably color representation, audio sampling, and memory addressing, with meanings that vary by context.

In color, 24-bit color depth means 8 bits per color channel (red, green, and blue). This yields 16,777,216 distinct colors and is commonly referred to as true color. It is widely used in digital images and displays, though some systems use higher bit depths or different color spaces for wider dynamic range.

In audio, 24-bit PCM represents each sample with 24 bits. This increases potential dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio over 16-bit audio, making it common in professional recording, mastering, and high-resolution audio workflows. Larger file sizes and processing requirements accompany 24-bit audio, and dithering is often applied when reducing bit depth.

In addressing and data widths, 24-bit width can appear in older or embedded systems where addresses or data lines are 24 bits wide. Such systems can address up to 16,777,216 units per space, but mainstream general-purpose CPUs typically use 32- or 64-bit addressing today.

Other uses include 24-bit values stored in file formats or data structures, such as 24-bit PCM samples within WAV or AIFF, and 24-bit color values in certain image formats. The term is sometimes encountered in hardware specifications, firmware, and digital media pipelines.