143

The probability of losing your life to a cosmic ray bit-flip is increasing daily

posted
by
Avatar
Artemis_Mystique@lemmy.ml
in
Avatar
showerthoughts@lemmy.world
36 comments
hidereport
Sort:
HotTopControversialNewOld
You are viewing a single thread.
View all comments View context
Avatar
Favrion@lemmy.world
2 points

What is a bit flip?

permalink
report
parent
reply
Avatar
Forester@yiffit.net
7 points
*

Computers store everything as electric current. If the current is on it’s a one. If the current is off it’s a zero. High energy particles from outer space regularly blast through our upper atmosphere into the Earth passing through most solid matter. These high energy particles can induce the electric currents when they impact computer components. These erant current can cause a one to become a zero or a zero to become a one. This can have all kinds of interesting effects depending on which zero and one got changed when and where. Normally this causes a crash of the program or operating system.

permalink
report
parent
reply

Showerthoughts

!showerthoughts@lemmy.world

Create post

A “Showerthought” is a simple term used to describe the thoughts that pop into your head while you’re doing everyday things like taking a shower, driving, or just daydreaming. A showerthought should offer a unique perspective on an ordinary part of life.

Rules

  1. All posts must be showerthoughts
  2. The entire showerthought must be in the title
  3. Avoid politics
    • 3.1) NEW RULE as of 5 Nov 2024, trying it out
    • 3.2) Political posts often end up being circle jerks (not offering unique perspective) or enflaming (too much work for mods).
    • 3.3) Try c/politicaldiscussion, volunteer as a mod here, or start your own community.
  4. Posts must be original/unique
  5. Adhere to Lemmy’s Code of Conduct

Community stats

  • 7.9K

    Monthly active users

  • 1.4K

    Posts

  • 48K

    Comments

Community moderators