A data item is a single unit of data in a storage record. This term can refer specifically to the smallest possible unit of information or, more generally, to a single entry or field. The context often provides information about the meaning. Data items are stored in computer databases in a variety of ways and can be protected to restrict access or left unprotected to be available to anyone who wishes to access them.
Woman doing handstand with a computer
When it is the smallest possible unit of meaningful information, it represents a very small component of a larger data set. In a census database, for example, data elements may include items such as names, ages, and addresses. In an address, each part of the address is its own data element and can be parsed separately. Other uses of the term may group anything in a given field under the heading of a single data item, in which case a full address line would be a data item.
Binary code is used to store information in databases in a meaningful, readable, and easily retrievable form. File sizes may vary depending on the type of information stored in the database and the format. The more clarifying information that is added, the larger the file will be, since it must contain not only the data, but also information about the data. In an encrypted database, the information is confidential, so only someone with the correct key can access it.
In a database, it is necessary to use the correct format to enter and store data elements. Errors and irregularities can make it difficult to use the database. For example, when entering dates, users must be consistent about how they order information in a date so that conflicting entries do not occur. Users can be instructed to encode information in a specific way at the time of input so that other users can read and search for it.
Database corruption can be a cause for concern. A corrupted data element may be incorrect or missing. A consistent storage and ordering system can be helpful in identifying and isolating corruption. If users can quickly spot a problem with the database, they can intervene before it spreads or causes errors. The corruption may be the result of a virus, hacking, improper shutdown or ransomware technique, or other problem. It is important to identify the cause when addressing the problem.
