Comparison of Encoding and Decoding Methods for Binary Files

Abstract

The main problem to be an obstacle in communication between platforms, networks such as local networks or the Internet is a problem in data transfer. The problem often found in a hardware which is cannot receive data that is processed by other hardware. So to change data between two computer systems, it is necessary to convert data from one form to another. One solution to this problem is transfered data or file, previously converted to the plaintext form first. Conversion to the plaintext form can be supported by most computer systems. In this study, a software was designed using Visual Basic programming language that can convert binary files to plaintext using the Base 64 encoding or decoding method, UUEncode/UUDecode, XXEncode/XXDecode, BinHex 4.0, Hexadecimal, and Quoted-Printable. The results of the design is produce a software that can be used as an alternative program to convert files into text files, besides that the program can also display a benchmark comparison graph (speed) of each method and comparison of overhead (the ratio of the size of the file to the file before encoding).