Why do we "still" use binary / hex for computers? The answer is that a decimal system of notation isn't a pure win in every endeavor. As a woodworker, there's

Why do we "still" use binary / hex for computers? The answer is that a decimal system of notation isn't a pure win in every endeavor. As a woodworker, there's a lot that I like about Imperial (I like doing metalworking in metric, though, and I have one metalworking lathe calibrated in each system). In woodworking, an inch is about the width of my thumb pressed flat. I can quickly measure things that way. The foot is a convenient size for the work that I do. Meters are a bit too big. Centimeters are too small. Imperial drill bits are available in sizes related by n/2. I can go from a 1" bit to a 1/2" to 1/4" to 1/8", etc. Or, I can add 50%, going from 1/8" to 3/16". See also ISO preferred numbers (ISO 3:1973) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Preferred_number http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Preferred_number http://www.sizes.com/numbers/preferred_numbers.htm http://www.sizes.com/numbers/preferred_numbers.htm