JavaScript TypedArray
In JavaScript, a typed array is an array-like object that stores a collection of elements of the same data type. It is a high-performance alternative to the traditional JavaScript arrays.
Syntax
The syntax for creating a typed array is as follows:
let typedArray = new TypedArray(length);
The "TypedArray" in the syntax can be replaced with one of the following types:
- Int8Array
- Uint8Array
- Int16Array
- Uint16Array
- Int32Array
- Uint32Array
- Float32Array
- Float64Array
The "length" parameter specifies the length of the array.
Example
Here is an example of initializing an Int32Array:
let intArray = new Int32Array(4);
intArray[0] = 10;
intArray[1] = 20;
intArray[2] = 30;
intArray[3] = 40;
Output
The above code creates an Int32Array with 4 elements and sets the values to 10, 20, 30, and 40.
Explanation
Typed arrays are designed to be more efficient than traditional arrays by providing better memory management and faster access times. Since all elements in a typed array are of the same data type, the browser can optimize the way it stores and accesses the array.
Use
Typed arrays are commonly used in situations where performance is critical, such as in video games, scientific simulations, and audio processing.
Important Points
- Typed arrays can only store values of the same data type.
- The length of a typed array cannot be changed.
- Typed arrays can be used to serialize and deserialize binary data.
- Typed arrays use ArrayBuffer for memory management.
Summary
Typed arrays are an efficient and high-performance alternative to traditional JavaScript arrays. They can be used to store collections of elements of the same data type, and are commonly used in situations where performance is critical. When working with typed arrays, it's important to keep in mind that the length cannot be changed, and all elements must be of the same data type.