bitflip

Definitions

1. The switching of a bit's value (from 1 to 0, or vice versa).
2. Such a change that occurs for a spurious reason, such as when a cosmic ray strikes the integrated circuit.
   usually

Examples

“Near-synonym: SEU (“single-event upset⟳”)”

“The problem centers on the way intense solar radiation can affect⟳ the data used by software that calculates the plane's elevation, says BECA (Belgian Pilot Association). At high altitudes, cosmic rays—high-energy particles from the Sun and distant space—can penetrate aircraft and strike⟳ sensitive parts of computer chips. In some cases, this can cause a bit flip, which is when a stored "0" turns into a "1," or vice versa. In technical terms, this is called a single event upset⟳ (SEU). Investigators found that ELAC B units (Elevator & Aileron Computers) running software version L104 were more likely to be affected. If corrupted data is fed into the flight-control system, the aircraft's elevators could move⟳ unexpectedly. In a worst-case situation, this could push⟳ the aircraft close⟳ to or beyond safe structural limits.”

CEFR level