What is the syntax for BITOR in Excel?

The syntax for BITOR is: =BITOR(number1, number2)

What are common errors with BITOR?

#NUM! if numbers negative or > 2^48-1

How do I use the BITOR function?

To use BITOR, type =BITOR( in a cell and provide the required arguments. Excel will show you the syntax and parameter hints as you type. Make sure to close the parentheses and press Enter to execute the function.

Why is BITOR not working in my Excel?

Common issues with BITOR include #NUM! if numbers negative or > 2^48-1. Start by checking the syntax =BITOR(number1, number2), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Engineering

BITOR Function in Excel

Returns a bitwise OR of two numbers.

Syntax

=BITOR(number1, number2)

Arguments

number1 (required): First number
number2 (required): Second number

Examples

=BITOR(5, 3) - Bitwise OR of 5 and 3 - Result: 7

BITOR in technical sheets

Document units in adjacent cells — many engineering functions require exact unit strings.
Use [CONVERT](/functions/convert/) for unit changes before specialized formulas.
Validate inputs with [ISNUMBER](/functions/isnumber/) and range checks.

Common errors

#NUM! if numbers negative or > 2^48-1

Use cases

Bit manipulation
Programming
Flags

Frequently asked questions

What is the BITOR function in Excel? BITOR returns a bitwise OR of two numbers. The syntax is =BITOR(number1, number2). Typical use cases include bit manipulation, programming, flags.
How do I use the BITOR function? To use BITOR, type =BITOR( in a cell and provide the required arguments. Excel will show you the syntax and parameter hints as you type. Make sure to close the parentheses and press Enter to execute the function.
Why is BITOR not working in my Excel? Common issues with BITOR include #NUM! if numbers negative or > 2^48-1. Start by checking the syntax =BITOR(number1, number2), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Editorial review

Reviewed by Excel.Directory Editorial Team. Updated May 2026.