Data Types

The data types defined in VIS are pixels and fixed data. Pixels consist of four 8-bit unsigned integers contained in a 32-bit word, these are typically used for video images. Fixed data consists of either four 16-bit fixed point components, or two 32-bit fixed point components both contained in a 64-bit word. These data types are used for intermediate results during image processing, when additional precision or dynamic range is required. Also, 16-bit fixed point components can be used for very high quality imaging, like in some medical processing or in color prepress. Some instructions also use fixed data with eight 8-bit components.