Bitmap

Bitmap

A bitmap is a type of digital image composed of a matrix of pixels. Each pixel in a bitmap image represents a single point in the image and has its own color value. Bitmaps are also known as raster graphics.

History

The concept of bitmap images dates back to the early days of computer graphics. The term "bitmap" was originally coined in the 1960s, and it has since become a fundamental concept in the field of digital imaging.

File Formats

Bitmap images can be stored in various file formats, each with its own characteristics and uses. Some of the most common bitmap file formats include:

• BMP
• GIF
• JPEG
• PNG
• TIFF

Characteristics

Bitmap images are characterized by their resolution, which is determined by the number of pixels in the image. The resolution is typically expressed in terms of width and height (e.g., 1920x1080 pixels). The color depth of a bitmap image, which refers to the number of bits used to represent the color of each pixel, also plays a crucial role in the image's quality and file size.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

• Bitmap images can represent complex images with a high level of detail.
• They are widely supported by various software applications and devices.

Disadvantages

• Bitmap images can become very large in file size, especially at high resolutions and color depths.
• They do not scale well; enlarging a bitmap image can result in a loss of quality and visible pixelation.

Applications

Bitmap images are used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Digital photography
• Web design
• Graphic design
• Video games
• Medical imaging

Related Pages

• Vector graphics
• Image resolution
• Color depth
• Raster graphics editor
• Computer graphics

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