Binary vs. Text File Writing: What are the Key Differences in Data Handling?

Understanding the Differences Between Binary and Text Mode File Writing

When writing data to a file, programmers can choose between binary mode and text mode. Binary mode allows for direct transfer of data without any modifications, while text mode incorporates certain translations specific to MS Visual C.

Consider the following code snippet that writes data to a file:

unsigned char buffer[256];
for (int i = 0; i < 256; i++) buffer[i] = i;
int size = 1;
int count = 256;

In binary mode, the data is written directly to the file:

FILE *fp_binary = fopen(filename, "wb");
fwrite(buffer, size, count, fp_binary);

In text mode, however, the data undergoes certain translations before being written:

FILE *fp_text = fopen(filename, "wt");
fwrite(buffer, size, count, fp_text);

Specifically, on Windows, the following translations occur when opening a file in text mode:

• Line feeds ('n') are converted to 'rn' sequences on output.
• Carriage return/line feed sequences are converted to line feeds on input.
• In append mode, the end of the file is checked for a Ctrl Z character ('x1A'). If present, it is removed and the character is treated as the end of file. However, it is not appended to the file.

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