We define the following
We often use the expressions 16-bit word (short word) or 32-bit word (long word) depending on the type of computer being used. Most fast computers today actually employ a 64-bit word at the hardware level.
If a word has n bits it can represent 
different numbers in the
range 0 to 
.
Negative numbers are usually represented by the so called 2's
complement notation.
To obtain the 2's compliment of a number first take the complement
(invert each bit) and then add 1.
All the negative numbers will have a 1 in the MSB position, and the
numbers will now range from 
to 
.
The electronic advantages of the 2's complement notation becomes
evident when addition is performed.
Convince yourself of this advantage.