TS EN 80000-13

TS EN 80000-13 is a terminology standard for the names, symbols and definitions of quantities and units used in information science and technology. Its purpose is to make measurement language consistent in areas such as data communication, information theory, telecommunications and related technical documentation, where precise notation matters as much as the concept itself.

Why quantity terminology matters in IT and communications

In information technology, many everyday expressions refer to concepts such as bit, byte, data rate, capacity, signal and coding. These terms may sound familiar, but they are not interchangeable: a quantity of information is not the same as a transfer rate, and storage capacity is distinct from a transmission speed. By standardising the names and symbols for such quantities, this standard helps reduce ambiguity in specifications, manuals and engineering communication.

Where appropriate, the standard also gives conversion factors. In practice, this is useful when working across different conventions for information quantities, including binary and decimal interpretations of prefixes, and when comparing older technical literature with contemporary ICT usage. The result is a clearer conceptual framework for describing information-related measurements and units.

What this part covers

• It covers names, symbols and definitions for quantities and units used in information science and technology.
• It also provides conversion factors where appropriate.
• Its focus is terminology and unit language, not product testing or performance verification.
• It is Part 13 of the IEC 80000 series and is linked to EN 80000-13.