Abstract: A method of determining the scaling factor for a signed n bit binary number, where n=2e, includes the steps of dividing the number into a plurality of subgroups of at least two bits each; providing a plurality of subunits holding the respective subgroups of bits; and arranging the subunits in a hierarchical tree structure of units. Each unit of a superior level receives inputs from units of a lower level, and each unit produces first, second and third output signals. The first output signal represents the most significant bit of the units in the associated hierarchy, the second signal indicates whether the bits in the associated hierarchy have the same value, and the third signal is an i-bit number representing the number of places less one that the bits in the associated hierarchy can be shifted. The index i is the same as the associated level in the hierarchy.