It is possible to use a byte to store that bit
pattern, but
Java will interpret it as a signed two's complement integer, and you'll end up with a negative value: -126.
However, if you
know the byte's bit pattern should be interpreted as an unsigned value, you can work around this.
All you need is to widen from a byte to an int and do some bit twiddeling:
I guess the real question is, why would you want to do this?
Build a man a fire, and he'll be warm for a day. Set a man on fire, and he'll be warm for the rest of his life.