FixedPointStruktur

FixedPointStruktur is a data structure designed to represent numbers with a fixed number of digits before and after the decimal point. This is in contrast to floating-point representations, which can handle a wider range of magnitudes but with a variable precision. The "Struktur" part of the name suggests a structured or organized way of storing these fixed-point values.

The core idea behind FixedPointStruktur is to allocate a specific, predetermined number of bits for the integer part and the fractional part of a number. For example, a 32-bit fixed-point number might be defined to use 16 bits for the integer part and 16 bits for the fractional part. This allows for precise representation of numbers within a defined range and with a consistent level of accuracy.

Fixed-point arithmetic is often employed in embedded systems, digital signal processing (DSP), and financial calculations where predictable performance, deterministic behavior, and exact decimal representations are crucial. Unlike floating-point arithmetic, which can involve complex hardware and may introduce rounding errors, fixed-point operations are generally simpler, faster, and more predictable, especially on hardware with limited computational resources.

The primary advantage of FixedPointStruktur lies in its deterministic nature. Developers know precisely how many bits are dedicated to the whole number and the decimal part, enabling precise control over numerical precision and range. This predictability is invaluable in applications where even small inaccuracies can have significant consequences. However, the fixed range means that numbers outside this predefined range cannot be accurately represented, potentially leading to overflow or underflow errors if not managed carefully.