Nine Zero

Nine Zero refers to a specific configuration or setting, often encountered in older computer systems, networking equipment, or communication protocols, characterized by eight data bits, no parity bit, and one stop bit. It is usually written as "8N1" but, in some contexts, might be referenced as "Nine Zero" to clearly specify the absence of parity. The "Nine" can be inferred from the eight data bits and one stop bit, summing to nine transmission bits per character frame, with "Zero" representing the absence of a parity bit.

This configuration was commonly used because it offered a balance between data throughput and error detection capabilities for many applications. The eight data bits allowed for the full ASCII character set (with values from 0 to 127) to be represented, and also provided the potential for representing extended character sets (values from 128 to 255) or binary data. The single stop bit signaled the end of each character frame, allowing the receiving device to synchronize with the data stream. The lack of parity provided a slightly faster data transmission rate, as no extra bit was needed for parity checking.

However, the "Nine Zero" configuration lacks the inherent error detection capabilities provided by parity bits (odd, even, or mark/space parity). This meant that any single-bit errors occurring during transmission would likely go undetected. For applications where data integrity was paramount, other configurations employing parity bits were often preferred.

While less prevalent in modern systems which often utilize more robust error detection and correction mechanisms and higher-speed communication protocols, "Nine Zero" remains a valid and functional configuration for serial communication and can still be encountered in legacy systems or specialized applications where simplicity and speed outweigh the need for advanced error checking. The term itself, while not a standardized technical term, may be used informally by technicians or engineers familiar with these systems.