LOGARITHMIC DATA COMPRESSION

Improved logarithmic data compression is achieved by means of a method of finding a more efficient base and a more efficient memory structure. Data compression from a P-bit input word to a Q-bit output word is performed using an optimal base which produces a number of rounded logarithm values equal to 2.sup.Q when applied to all of the possible input values. These logarithm values are coded using the available output values to produce a logarithm look-up table. The look-up table is implemented using a multi-stage memory structure which reduces the number of memory devices required for a given table.