encode

encode

(1) To assign a code to represent data, such as a parts code. Contrast with decode.

(2) To convert from one format or signal to another. See codec and D/A converter.

(3) The term is sometimes erroneously used for "encrypt." However, encoded data are not secretly scrambled and can be decoded easily. See cryptography.

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encode [en′kōd]

(communications)

To express given information by means of a code.

(computer science)

To prepare a routine in machine language for a specific computer.

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1.	(algorithm, hardware)	encode - To convert data or some physical quantity into a given format. E.g. uuencode. See also encoder.
2.	(cryptography)	encode - To encrypt, to perform encryption.