What is Base16 (Hexadecimal)?

Base16, commonly known as hexadecimal, is a number system that uses sixteen digits (0-9 and a-f) to represent data. Each hexadecimal digit represents four binary digits (bits), making it a convenient way to represent binary data in a more compact and readable format.

How It Works

Encoding: Each character in the input text is converted to its UTF-8 byte representation. Each byte is then converted to a 2-digit hexadecimal number, with leading zeros added if necessary. The hexadecimal digits are grouped by 2 digits with spaces for readability.

Decoding: The hexadecimal string is processed in groups of 2 digits. Each group is converted back to its decimal value, and these values are used to reconstruct the original UTF-8 text.

• Uses sixteen characters: 0-9 and a-f (case-insensitive).
• Each character is represented by 2 hexadecimal digits (1 byte).
• Common in programming and digital systems.
• Each hexadecimal digit represents 4 binary digits.
• Whitespace between pairs is optional for readability.

Use Cases

Hexadecimal encoding has numerous applications:

• Memory Addresses: Used in programming and debugging to represent memory locations.
• Color Codes: Web colors are commonly specified in hexadecimal (e.g., #FF0000 for red).
• Binary Data: Provides a more compact representation of binary data.
• Network Protocols: Used in various protocols for representing binary data.

Why Use Hexadecimal?

Hexadecimal encoding offers several advantages:

• Compact: More space-efficient than binary or octal.
• Readability: Easier to read and write than binary.
• Conversion: Simple conversion to and from binary.
• Widespread: Used extensively in computing and digital systems.

How to Use This Tool

1. Select either "Encode" or "Decode" mode.
2. Enter the text (UTF-8 for encoding) or hexadecimal string (for decoding) into the top input field.
3. The result will appear automatically in the bottom output field.
4. Use the swap button to switch the input and output, automatically changing the mode.
5. Click the copy icon next to the output label to copy the result.
6. Error messages will appear for invalid hexadecimal input or if the decoded data is not valid UTF-8.