FOSSPicks
Number conversion
Bitwise
If there's some task you need to perform regularly, it matters how efficient the process becomes, even if that task is simple. This is why the batch image processor above is so effective, and it's also why this neat little command-line utility also succeeds. In fact, the developer created it after noticing that the desktop calculator was being launched too often and wanting to stay on the command line. That's because Bitwise, as its name suggests, is going to be primarily of use to low-level programmers who often need to convert between binary, octal, and hexadecimal number bases, which is often a requirement when you're getting hardware to work or developing parts to plug into the kernel.
Starting Bitwise without any arguments will launch the small utility in interactive mode, with the cursor flashing in a field that accepts a decimal number. As you type a number in, its value for the other number systems is calculated and shown in real time. You can use either the cursor keys, or the Vim movement keys (h, j, k, l) to switch between the fields and enter your chosen number using a different base. With the binary field, you can turn on and off separate bits with the space key. Another similarity with Vim is that you can press : to enter the expression calculator mode. This lets you type expressions to be calculated, and the answer alongside the expression is shown in a history pane. You can also run this mode from the command line without having to enter the interactive mode at all. It's simple, and it's the kind of thing any programmer could build over their lunch hour, but it's also effective.
Project Website
https://github.com/mellowcandle/bitwise
Eurorack emulator
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
TUXEDO Computers Unveils Linux Laptop Featuring AMD Ryzen CPU
This latest release is the first laptop to include the new CPU from Ryzen and Linux preinstalled.
-
XZ Gets the All-Clear
The back door xz vulnerability has been officially reverted for Fedora 40 and versions 38 and 39 were never affected.
-
Canonical Collaborates with Qualcomm on New Venture
This new joint effort is geared toward bringing Ubuntu and Ubuntu Core to Qualcomm-powered devices.
-
Kodi 21.0 Open-Source Entertainment Hub Released
After a year of development, the award-winning Kodi cross-platform, media center software is now available with many new additions and improvements.
-
Linux Usage Increases in Two Key Areas
If market share is your thing, you'll be happy to know that Linux is on the rise in two areas that, if they keep climbing, could have serious meaning for Linux's future.
-
Vulnerability Discovered in xz Libraries
An urgent alert for Fedora 40 has been posted and users should pay attention.
-
Canonical Bumps LTS Support to 12 years
If you're worried that your Ubuntu LTS release won't be supported long enough to last, Canonical has a surprise for you in the form of 12 years of security coverage.
-
Fedora 40 Beta Released Soon
With the official release of Fedora 40 coming in April, it's almost time to download the beta and see what's new.
-
New Pentesting Distribution to Compete with Kali Linux
SnoopGod is now available for your testing needs
-
Juno Computers Launches Another Linux Laptop
If you're looking for a powerhouse laptop that runs Ubuntu, the Juno Computers Neptune 17 v6 should be on your radar.