An embedded computer uses 8-bit 2's complement representation for signed integers. What is the minimum *negative* integer value which can be represented in this computer?
Step-by-step Solution:
The range of signed integers that can be represented using an \( n \)-bit 2's complement representation is given by the formula: \[ -2^{n-1} \text{ to } 2^{n-1} - 1 \] Given that the computer uses an 8-bit representation, we have \( n = 8 \). To find the minimum negative integer value, we substitute \( n = 8 \) into the lower bound of the formula: \[ -2^{8-1} \] \[ = -2^7 \] \[ = -128 \] Therefore, the minimum negative integer value that can be represented is -128.