What is a format ?
“An arrangement of data, etc. for storage or processing by computer” (NSOED)
Involves:
- Structure: logical organization
- Code: symbols/signals used to transmit/store
- Encoding: process or algorithm for putting into code
Provides:
- Persistent storage of data
- A means to transport data between systems
- A SW independent interface to data
A good format should be loss-less with respect to the DRM it supports