In Python, struct is a module that converts native Python data types to C-like data types and vice versa. This is especially beneficial when dealing with binary data. This module provides excellent facilitations for binary data manipulation.
Step 1: Installing Struct module
In Python, struct is an in-built module. Thus, there is no need for installation. You can launch immediately into using it after importing it with the line:
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import struct |
Step 2: Creating or defining a Struct
To define a struct, you can utilize the ‘struct’ module’s ‘pack’ and ‘unpack’ functions. Here is how:
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# Here we define a struct using the pack() function binary_string = struct.pack('4s3s', b'Dogs', b'Cat') print(binary_string) # Now we define a struct using the unpack() function data = struct.unpack('4s3s', binary_string) print(data) |
Step 3: Understanding the Struct Format Characters
When defining the struct, you have to specify the format character to indicate the type of data to be processed. Here is a basic table to understand these format characters:
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| ‘i’ | integer |
| ‘f’ | float |
| ‘s’ | string |
The Full Code
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import struct # Here we define a struct using the pack() function binary_string = struct.pack('4s3s', b'Dogs', b'Cat') print(binary_string) # Now we define a struct using the unpack() function data = struct.unpack('4s3s', binary_string) print(data) |
Output:
b'DogsCat' (b'Dogs', b'Cat')
Conclusion
By now, you should be comfortable with the creation of a Struct in Python. They are fundamental while dealing with binary data and connecting with C-based codes.
Remember, practice is crucial when learning new skills so keep experimenting with new data types and struct formats.