Lossless

Describing a method of data compression or transmission that preserves all the original information. In other words, no data is discarded during the process of encoding, transferring, or decoding. This stands in contrast to 'lossy' methods, which discard some data to achieve higher compression ratios, potentially sacrificing fidelity. lossless techniques are critical where absolute fidelity is required, such as in archiving, scientific data analysis, medical imaging, and audio or video production. The absence of data degradation ensures the integrity of the information throughout its lifecycle.

Lossless meaning with examples

• The museum chose lossless archival for its priceless historical documents. Every scanned page retains its original resolution and color, guaranteeing the long-term preservation of valuable details and allowing for future examination and analysis. The file size is larger, but the assurance of data integrity is paramount.
• When recording a symphony orchestra, the sound engineer preferred a lossless audio codec. This ensured every nuance of the performance, from the faintest whisper of the violins to the thundering timpani, was captured without any quality degradation, guaranteeing a perfect master recording.
• For medical imaging, lossless compression is vital. Doctors depend on accurate images for diagnoses, so any data loss could result in misinterpretation. Images stored in a lossless format give medical professionals the confidence of complete, reliable diagnostic data.
• The photographer edited his RAW image files using a lossless workflow. He can make extensive changes to brightness, contrast, and color, knowing that the original image information is preserved. This workflow allows him to return to the original image at any stage with no further data degradation.
• The research team utilized a lossless data transfer protocol for satellite telemetry. The accuracy of the readings from the probes depends on the exact data received. By transmitting in a lossless format, the integrity of the data is secured, ensuring the trustworthiness of the research results.