UNIT-I: Fundamentals of Digital Electronics

1. 1. Introduction

Digital electronics is a type of electronics that deals with the digital systems which processes
the data/information in the form of binary(0s and 1s) numbers, whereas analog electronics deals
with the analog systems which processes the data/information in the form of continuous signals.

Continuous signals
A Continuous signal is function f(t), whose value is defined for all time 't'.
in other words
Continuous signal a varying quantity with respect to independent variable time.
Example: Figure 1.1(a) shows the continuous signal.

Figure 1.1(a): Continuous signals.

Digital signals
A digital signal is a quantized discrete time signals.
Example: Figure 1.1(b) shows the discrete and digital signals.

Figure 1.1(b1): Discrete signal.

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 Figure 1.1(b2): Digital signal.

1.2. Boolean Algebra

Boolean algebra is a branch of Algebra (Mathematics) that deals with operations on logical
values with Boolean variables, Boolean variables are represented as binary numbers which takes
logic 1 and logic 0 values. Hence, the Boolean algebra is also called two-valued logic, Binary
Algebra or Logical Algebra. The Boolean algebra was introduced by great mathematician George
Boole in 1847. The Boolean algebra is a fundamental for the development of digital electronic
systems, and is provided for in all programming languages. Set theory and statistics fields also
uses Boolean algebra for the representation, simplification and analysis of mathematical
quantities.

Logic levels are classified into two types

1. Positive logic
Logic 0 = False, 0V, Open Switch, OFF
Logic 1= True, +5V, Closed Switch, ON

2. Negative logic
Logic 0 = True, +5V, Closed Switch, ON
Logic 1= False, 0V, Open Switch, OFF

Boolean algebra differs from normal or elementary algebra. Latter deals with numerical
operations such as, addition, subtraction, multiplication and division on decimal numbers. And
former deals with the logical operations such as conjunction (OR), disjunction(AND) and
negation(NOT).
In present context, positive logic has been used for the entire discussion, representation and
simplification of Boolean variables.

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 1.2.1. Rules and properties of Boolean Algebra

1. Boolean variables takes only two values, logic 1 and logic 0, called binary numbers.
2. Basic operations of Boolean algebra are complement of a variable, ORing and ANDing of two
or more variables.
3. Mathematical description of Boolean operations using variables is called Boolean expression.
4. Complement of variable is represented by an over-bar (-).
Example: 𝑌 = 𝐴̅, Y is the output variable
5. ORing of variables is represented by a plus symbol (+) Example:𝑌 = 𝐴 + 𝐵, Y is the output
variable
6. ANDing of variables is represented by a dot symbol (.)
Example:𝑌 = 𝐴. 𝐵, Y is the output variable
7. Boolean operations are different from binary operations. Example : 1+1=10 in Binary
Addition 1+1=1 in Boolean algebra.

Table 1.1, shows the complement operation of a variable, table 1.2 summarized the OR
operation and table 1.3, summarized the AND operation of two variables.

A 𝒀 = 𝑨̅
0 1
1 0

Table 1.1: Complement of variable A

A B Y=A+B
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 1
1 1 1
Table 1.2: OR operation on A and B

A B Y=A.B
0 0 0
0 1 0
1 0 0
1 1 1

Table 1.3: AND operation on A and B

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1.2.2. Boolean Laws:
Law-1: Commutative law
The sequence of changing the variables does not effect on the result even after changing their
sequence while performing OR/AND operations of Boolean expression.

i. e. , A. B = B. A and A + B = B + A

Law-2: Associative law

The order of operations on variables is independent.

A. (B. C) = (A. B). C and A + (B + C) = (A + B) + C

Law-3: Distributive Laws

𝐴. (𝐵 + 𝐶) = 𝐴. 𝐵 + 𝐴. 𝐶
𝐴 + 𝐵𝐶 = (𝐴 + 𝐵)(𝐴 + 𝐶)

Law-4: AND Laws

𝐴. 0 = 0
𝐴. 1 = 𝐴
𝐴. 𝐴 = 𝐴
𝐴. 𝐴̅ = 0

Law-5: OR Laws
𝐴+0=𝐴
𝐴+1=1
𝐴+𝐴=𝐴
𝐴 + 𝐴̅ = 1

Law-6: Inversion/Complement/NOT Laws

0̅ = 1
1̅ = 0
̅
𝐴̅ = 𝐴
Law-7: Absorption Law

𝑨(𝑨 + 𝑩) = 𝑨
𝑨 + 𝑨𝑩 = 𝑨
𝑨 + 𝑨̅𝑩 = 𝑨 + 𝑩

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 Law-8: Demargon's Laws

De-Morgan's First Law

Statement: Sum of complement of two or more variables is equal to the product of the
complement of their variables.
i. e., ̅A̅ +̅̅B̅̅ +̅̅C̅̅ +̅⋯̅̅.̅. = A̅ . B̅ . ̅C̅ …̅.̅.
Proof:
consider three variables for the proof shown in figure 1.4

A B C 𝑨̅̅+̅̅𝑩̅̅+̅̅𝑪̅ 𝑨̅.𝑩̅. 𝑪̅
0 0 0 1 1
0 0 1 0 0
0 1 0 0 0
0 1 1 0 0
1 0 0 0 0
1 0 1 0 0
1 1 0 0 0
1 1 1 0 0
Table 1.4: De-Morgan's First Law

De-Morgan's Second Law

Statement: Product of complement of two or more variables is equal to the sum of the
complement of their variables.
̅
i. e., ̅ABC̅̅ +̅̅⋯̅̅.̅. = ⋯ 𝐴̅ + 𝐵̅ + 𝐶̅ ….
Proof:
consider three variables for the proof shown in figure 1.5

A B C ̅𝑨̅.̅𝑩̅.̅𝑪̅ A̅ + B̅ + C̅
0 0 0 1 1
0 0 1 1 1
0 1 0 1 1
0 1 1 1 1
1 0 0 1 1
1 0 1 1 1
1 1 0 1 1
1 1 1 0 0
Table 1.5: De-Morgan's Second Law

Boolean expressions must be simplified and evaluated using the order of operator precedence
shown in table 1.6

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 Operator Precedence
Parenthesis 1
NOT 2
AND 3
OR 4
Table 1.6: Operator precedence

Example:

̅ ̅ ̅̅ ̅ ̅̅ ̅ ̅ ̅̅̅ ̅
𝒀 = (𝑨 (𝑪⏟ + 𝑩⏟⏟̅ 𝑫 ) + 𝑩 ⏟ 𝑪⏟̅ ) 𝑬̅

1.2.3. Simplify the following

expressions 1. 𝐘 = 𝐁𝐂 + 𝐁𝐂̅ + 𝐁𝐀
solution:
Y BA
Y BA
Y
Y
Y
𝐘

2. 𝐘 = 𝐀 + 𝐀̅𝐁 + 𝐀̅𝐁̅𝐂 + 𝐀̅𝐁̅𝐂̅𝐃 + 𝐀̅𝐁̅𝐂̅𝐃̅𝐄

Solution:
Y = A + A̅ B + A̅ B̅ C + A̅ B̅ C̅ D + A̅ B̅ C̅ D̅E Y = A + A̅ (B + B̅ C +
B̅ C̅ D + B̅ C̅ D̅E) Y = A + (B + B̅ C + B̅ C̅ D + B̅ C̅ D̅E)
Y = A + (B + B̅ (C + C̅ D + C̅ D̅E))
Y = A + (B + (C + C̅ D + C̅ D̅E))
Y = A + (B + (C + C̅ (D + D̅E)))
Y = A + (B + (C + (D + D̅E)))

𝐘=𝐀+𝐁+𝐂+𝐃+𝐄

3. 𝐘 = 𝐂 + ̅𝐁𝐂̅̅
Solution:
Y = C + B̅ + C̅ Y = (C + C̅ ) + B̅ Y = 1 + B̅
𝐘=𝟏

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 4. 𝐘 = ̅𝐀𝐁̅̅(𝐀̅ + 𝐁)(𝐁̅ + 𝐁)
Solution:
Y = (A̅ + B̅ )(A̅ + B)(1) Y = A̅ A̅ + A̅ B + B̅ A̅ + B̅ B Y = 0 + A̅ (B
+ B̅ ) + 0 Y = A̅ (1)
𝐘 = 𝐀̅

5. 𝐘 = (𝐀 + 𝐂)(𝐀𝐃 + 𝐀𝐃̅) + 𝐀𝐂 + 𝐂
Solution:
Y = (A + C)(A(D + D̅)) + AC + C Y = (A + C)(A)(1) + AC + C
Y = AA + AC + AC + C Y = A + AC + C Y = A(1 + C) + C
𝐘=𝐀+𝐂

6. 𝐘 = 𝐀̅(𝐀 + 𝐁) + (𝐁 + 𝐀𝐀)(𝐀 + 𝐁̅)

Solution:
Y = A̅ A + A̅ B + BA + BB̅ + AAA + AAB̅ Y = 0 + A̅ B + AB + 0
+ A + AB̅ Y = B(A̅ + A) + A + AB̅ Y = B + A(1 + B̅ )
𝐘=𝐀+𝐁

̅ ̅̅ ̅ ̅̅ ̅ ̅ ̅̅ ̅̅ ̅
7. 𝐘 = ̅𝐀̅+̅
̅ 𝐁̅𝐂̅+̅𝐃̅(̅𝐄+̅̅ 𝐅̅)
Solution:
̅ ̅ ̅ ̅ ̅
Y = (̅̅A̅̅ +̅̅B̅̅ C̅̅ )̅ ( D̅̅ (̅̅E̅̅ +̅̅F̅̅ )̅) Y = (A + BC̅ )( D̅ + (̅̅E̅̅ +̅̅F̅̅ )
𝐘 = (𝐀 + 𝐁𝐂̅)( 𝐃̅ + 𝐄 + 𝐅̅)

8. 𝐘 = 𝐀𝐁 + 𝐀(𝐁 + 𝐂) + 𝐁(𝐁 + 𝐂)
Solution:
Y = AB + AB + AC + BB + BC Y = AB + AC + B + BC Y = AB
+ AC + B(1 + C) Y = AB + AC + B Y = B(A + 1) + AC
𝐘 = 𝐁 + 𝐀𝐂

9. 𝐘 = 𝐀𝐁̅ + 𝐀(̅𝐁̅+̅̅ ̅𝐂̅) + 𝐁(̅𝐁̅+̅

̅ ̅𝐂̅)
Solution:
Y = AB̅ + A(B̅ C̅ ) + BB̅ C̅ Y = AB̅ (1 + C̅ )
𝐘 = 𝐀𝐁̅

10. 𝐘 = 𝐀̅𝐁𝐂 + 𝐀𝐁̅𝐂̅ + 𝐀̅𝐁̅𝐂̅ + 𝐀𝐁̅𝐂 + 𝐀𝐁𝐂

Solution:
Y = A̅ BC + AB̅ C̅ + A̅ B̅ C̅ + AB̅ C + ABC Y = A̅ BC + AB̅ C̅ + A̅ B̅ C̅ +
AC(B̅ + B) Y = A̅ BC + AB̅ C̅ + A̅ B̅ C̅ + AC Y = A̅ BC + B̅ C̅ (A + A̅ )
+ AC Y = A̅ BC + B̅ C̅ + AC Y = (A̅ B + A)C + B̅ C̅ Y = (A + B)C +
B̅ C̅
𝐘 = 𝐀𝐂 + 𝐁𝐂 + 𝐁̅𝐂̅

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 11. If 𝐅 = 𝐀̅ + 𝐁, 𝐀 = 𝐘 + 𝐗 and 𝐁 = 𝐗̅ + 𝐘, then 𝐅 =?
Solution:
F = (̅Y̅ +̅̅X̅ ) + (̅X + Y) F = ̅Y. ̅X + ̅X + Y
𝐅 = 𝐘 + 𝐗̅

12. If 𝐟(𝐀, 𝐁) = 𝐀 + 𝐁, then show that 𝐟(𝐟(𝐗, 𝐘𝐙), 𝐗̅𝐘) = 𝐗 + 𝐘

Solution:
f
and YZ f (X,YZ)
f
A (X,YZ) Yf
(X,YZ) ̅XY f
(X,YZ)
YZ f (X,YZ)
YZ
f (X,YZ) 𝐟 (𝐗, 𝐘𝐙)

13. Let 𝐀 𝐁 and 𝐂 𝐁 then 𝐂 𝐀 is _______

Solution:
C
C A
C AC A𝐂 𝐀

1.3. Realization of Boolean expressions using logic gates.

Logic gate is the basic building block of any digital circuits. The logic gates may have one or
more inputs and only one output. The relationship between input and output is based on a
certain logic, which is same as Boolean operations, such as AND, OR and NOT.
Based on the Boolean operations, the gates are named as AND gate, OR gate and NOT gate.
These three gates are called basic gates, and some more gates can be derived by using the basic
gates, they are named as NAND gate, NOR gate, EXOR gate and XNOR gate. NAND and NOR
gates are called universal gates, because by using only the NAND gates /NOR gates we can
realize all basic gates even all Boolean expression.
Logic gates, its truth table, expression and symbols are summarized in the table 1.7 as follows.

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Sl. No. Gate name and Logic Symbol Truth table and Logical Expression

AND Gate

1
Inputs Output

A B 𝒀 = 𝑨. 𝑩
0 0 0
0 1 0
1 0 0
1 1 1

OR Gate Inputs Output

2
A B 𝒀=𝑨+𝑩

0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 1
1 1 1

NOT Gate

3 Inputs Output
A 𝒀 = 𝑨̅
0 1
1 0

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 NAND Gate
Inputs Output

A B Y
4
0 0 1
0 1 1
1 0 1
NOR Gate 1Inputs 1 0
Output

A B Y
5
0 0 1
0 1 0
1 0 0
EX-OR Gate
1Inputs 1 0
Output

A B Y
6
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 1
EX-NOR Gate 1Inputs 1 0
Output

A B Y
7
0 0 1
0 1 0
1 0 0
1 1 1

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 1.3.1. Realize the following Boolean expression using basic gates.

Y = AB + BC + AC

Logic diagram

1.3.2. Realize the following Boolean expression using only NAND gates.

Y = AB + BC + AC

Logic diagram
Step-1: Replace basic gates by NAND equivalents

Step-2: Eliminate two single input NAND gates are connected in series.

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Step-3: Draw the resultant logic circuit.

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1.4. Representation of Boolean Expressions

The relationship between Boolean variables and output variable is called Boolean expression, the
Boolean expressions can be represented in two different forms, they are,
1. Sum of Products (SOP) form and
2. Product of Sums (POS) form

1.4.1. Sum of Product (SOP) form

The Boolean Expressions in which the product of input variables are summed together for output
high.
Example: Consider a truth table shown in table 1.8.

A B C Y
0 0 0 0
0 0 1 1
0 1 0 1
0 1 1 0
1 0 0 1
1 0 1 1
1 1 0 0
1 1 1 1
Table 1.8: Truth table

The Boolean expression for Y is

Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ C̅ + AB̅ C + ABC − − − (1)

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NOTE: A = 0 is represented as̅ A̅̅ and A = 1 will be represented as A

Expression (1) is a standard or canonical sum of product form, which is directly derived from the
truth table.

Sum variable can be minimized using Boolean algebra rules.

Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ C̅ + AC(B̅ + B)
Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ C̅ + AC
Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + A(B̅ C̅ + C)
Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + A(B̅ + C)
Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ + AC
Y = A̅ B̅ C + AB̅ + A̅ BC̅ + AC
Y = (A̅ C + A)B̅ + A̅ BC̅ + AC
Y = (C + A)B̅ + A̅ BC̅ + AC
Y = AB̅ + CB̅ + A̅ BC̅ + AC − − − (2)

Expression (2) is the simplified form of canonical SOP form called, minimal SOP form.

NOTE:
1. Canonical SOP form to minimal SOP form and vice versa can also be derived using truth table.
2. Each product terms of SOP form is called minterms.
3. Canonical SOP form of Boolean expressions can also be written using decimal equivalent of input
variables for the output high.
Example: for the Boolean expression (1), the output is high for ABC=001, ABC=010 ABC=100,
ABC=101 and ABC=111.
The decimal equivalent of ABC=001 is '1', ABC=010 is '2', ABC=100 is '4', ABC=101 is '5' and
ABC=111 is '7'
Therefore, Y can also be expressed as
Y(A, B, C) = (m1,m2,m4,m5,m7)

Y(A, B, C)

Problem: Refer the truth table shown in table 1.9., write the Boolean expression in canonical
SOP form and minimal SOP form. Also write the different ways of writing canonical SOP form.

A B C Y
0 0 0 0
0 0 1 1
0 1 0 1
0 1 1 0
1 0 0 0
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 1 0 1 1
1 1 0 1
1 1 1 1

Standard or canonical form representation

Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ C + ABC̅ + ABC

other representations
Y(A, B, C) = (m1,m2,m5,m6,m7)
OR
Y(A, B, C) = ∑ m((1,2,5,6,7)

Simplification of Boolean expression using Boolean algebra rules

Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ C + ABC̅ + ABC
Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ C + AB(C̅ +
C) Y = A̅ B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB̅ C + AB
Y = A̅ B̅ C + AB̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB
Y = (A̅ + A)B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB
Y = B̅ C + A̅ BC̅ + AB
Y = B̅ C + (A̅ C̅ + A)B
Y = B̅ C + (C̅ + A)B
Y = B̅ C + BC̅ + AB − minimal SOP form

1.4.2. Product of Sum (POS) form

The Boolean Expressions in which the Sum of input variables are multiplied together for output
low.
Example: Consider a truth table shown in table 1.9.

A B C Y
0 0 0 0
0 0 1 1
0 1 0 1
0 1 1 0
1 0 0 1
1 0 1 1
1 1 0 0
1 1 1 1

Table 1.9: Truth table

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 The Boolean expression for Y is

Y = (A + B + C)(A + B̅ + C̅ )(A̅ + B̅ + C) − − − (1)

NOTE: A = 0 is represented as A and A = 1 will be represented as ̅ A̅̅

Expression (1) is a standard or canonical Products of sum form, which is directly derived from the
truth table.

Sum variable can be minimized using Boolean algebra rules.

Y
Y Distributive law
Y

Expression (2) is the simplified form of canonical POS form called, minimal POS form.

NOTE:
1. Canonical POS form to minimal POS form and vice versa can also be derived using truth table.
2. Each Sum terms of POS form is called maxterm.
3. Canonical POS form of Boolean expressions can also be written using decimal equivalent of input
variables for the output high.
Example: for the Boolean expression (1), the output is low for ABC=000, ABC=011 and
ABC=110.
The decimal equivalent of ABC=000 is '0', ABC=011 is '3', and ABC=110 is '6'
Therefore, Y can also be expressed as
Y(A, B, C) = (M0,M3,M6) OR
Y(A, B, C) = ∏ M(0,3,6)

Problem: Refer the truth table shown in table 1.9., write the Boolean expression in canonical
POS form and minimal POS form. Also write the different ways of writing canonical SOP form.

A B C Y
0 0 0 0
0 0 1 1
0 1 0 1
0 1 1 0

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 1 0 0 0
1 0 1 1
1 1 0 1
1 1 1 1

Standard or canonical form representation

Y = (A + B + C)(A + B̅ + C̅ )(A̅ + B + C)
other representations
Y(A, B, C) = (M0,M3,M4) OR
Y(A, B, C) = ∏ M(0,3,4)

Simplification of Boolean expression using Boolean algebra rules

Y = (A + B + C)(A + B̅ + C̅ )(A̅ + B + C)
Y = (A + B + C)(A̅ + B + C)(A + B̅ + C̅ )
Y = (AA̅ + B + C)(A + B̅ + C̅ )
Y = (B + C)(A + B̅ + C̅ ) − − − Minimal POS form

1.5. K-Map simplification (Karnaugh Map simplification)

The simplification of Boolean expressions using Boolean algebraic rules is not unique and
most of the cases, the resultant expression is not in minimal form. In order to get the uniqueness
and final minimal form, K-map technique will be used. In the following section, the introduction to
K-maps, grouping of variables and simplification procedures are discussed with examples.

NOTE:
Number of cells in K-map = number of possible cases
No. of possible cases=2𝑁
N is the number of input variables.

Example: Number of input variables=2, then the number of cells in K-map is 4.

NOTE: K-maps can take wither POS form or SOP form, in SOP form 1's are need to be grouped
and in POS form 0's are need to be grouped.

NOTE: Only adjacent cells will be considered for grouping, diagonal cells should not be grouped.
NOTE: grouping can be done using 2 variables, 4 variables, 8 variables, 16 variables etc..,
highest priority for grouping maximum variables in the above denomination. Variables are 0's
for POS form and 1's for SOP form.

Procedure:
1. Select the number of cells according to the number of input variables.

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 2. Identify whether the given problem is SOP or POS form, minterms for SOP form and
maxterms for POS form.
NOTE: In SOP form, fill the cells by 1's at corresponding minterms and otherwise
fill with 0's.
NOTE: In POS form, fill the cells by 0's at corresponding maxterms and otherwise
fill with 1's.
NOTE: In POS form, take the complement of the output variable to get the
resultant expression.
3. group the terms in the form of rectangular, the total number of terms is 2, 4, 8, etc.., try to
cover as many elements as you can in one group.
4. from the groups, find the Product terms for SOP from and sum terms for POS form.

Example:
Simplify the following canonical SOP form of Boolean expression using K-map technique. Y(A,
B, C,D) = ∑ m(0,2,3,4,6,9,11,13,15)

Simplified Boolean Expression 𝑌 = A̅ D̅ + A̅ B̅ C + AD

******

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 UNIT-III: Flip-Flops and Registers
I. Introduction
Digital circuits are interconnection of various logic gates, which processes the data in the
form of digital signals, which are designed to perform arithmetic as well as logical operations.
Digital circuits are classified into two types 1. Combinational circuits and
2. Sequential circuits.
The following section is discussed the definition and differences between combinational and
sequential circuits.
I.1. Combinational Circuits:
Combinational circuits are time independent circuits, which depends on the present input and
do not dependent on previous inputs to generate any output. Figure (1) shows the block diagram
of combinational circuit.

Figure 1: Block diagram of combinational circuit Combinational

circuit outputs are dependent only on present inputs.
i.e., 𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑠 = 𝑓(𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑛𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑠) − − − (1) Features
of combinational circuits:
• Simple in construction
• Speed is fast, only propagation delay occurs.
• No feedback
• Basic building blocks are AND gate, OR gate and NOT gate.
• Time independent
Examples: Adders, Subtractors, Decoders, Encoders, Multiplexers, Demultiplexers etc.

I.2. Sequential circuits:

Sequential circuits are those which are time dependent (Clock cycles) and depends on
present as well previous outputs to generate any output. Figure (2) shows the block diagram of
sequential circuit.

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 Figure 2: Block diagram of sequential circuit.
From the figure (2), the output, not only depends on present inputs but also previous outputs.
i.e., 𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡 = 𝑓(𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑛𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑠, 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑜𝑢𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑠) − − − (2)
The sequential circuits send the previous output to the input of the circuit with a positive
feedback through memory element. Memory element is used to store the previous data and send
it to the combinational circuit as the additional inputs.
Memory element plays a very important role in the design of sequential circuits.
Flipflop/Latch is a basic building block/ elementary building block which acts as a memory
element for the design of any sequential circuits. The present section discusses the concept of
Flip-flops.

Sequential circuits are classified into two types,

a. Synchronous sequential circuits – These circuits generate the output only at
discrete time instants. These circuits require clock pulse (Master clock generator) to
sample the inputs and determine the system behavior. These circuits are also called
clocked sequential circuits.
b. Asynchronous sequential circuits – These circuits generate the output
instantly, once
the input variables change. These circuits are also called unclocked sequential circuits.

Features of Sequential circuits:

• Output depends on present as well as past data.
• Positive feedback is present to make dependent on past/previous output.
• Speed is slow.
• Complex design.
• Time dependent, hence need clock for triggering.
• Designed to storing the data.
• Basic element is flip-flop.
Example: Counters, Registers etc...

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 II. Concept of Flip-Flops
The elementary building block of any sequential circuits is Flip-flop, the flip-flop itself is
a simple sequential circuit. Basically sequential circuits have feedback, and it is seen that
feedback is present in flip-flops also.
Flip-flops have two stable conditions; each stable condition is called a state. The state
represents the storage of binary symbols. The state of a system is also called as content or
internal state or secondary state.
Flip-flop has two states; hence flip-flops are called Bi-stable devices/elements.

II.1. Basic Bistable element:

Figure (3) shows the basic bistable element, which is a cross-coupling of two NOT gates. The
output of first NOT gate is connected to the input of second NOT gate and output of second NOT
gate is connected to the input of the first NOT gate.

Figure 3: Basic Bistable element

In the figure (3), G1 and G2 are NOT gates, this bistable element can be analyzed with the
following cases.
Case(i): Initially, assume X=0.
If X=0, output of the G1 is complement of X, i.e., 𝑄 = 𝑋̅ = 1. Q serves as input to the G2, i.e.,
𝑌 = 𝑄 = 1, the output of the G2 is complement of Y, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 𝑌̅ = 𝑋 = 0. However, the output
of the G2 serving as input to G1, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 𝑋 = 0 and hence output of G1 complement of X, i.e.,
𝑄 = 𝑋̅ = 𝑌 = 1. Thus the bistable element is stable with 𝑄 = 𝑋̅ = 𝑌 = 1 and 𝑄̅ = 𝑌̅ = 𝑋 = 0
Case(ii): Assume Y=0.
If Y=0, output of the G2 is complement of Y, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 𝑌̅ = 1. Q serves as input to the G1, i.e.,
𝑋 = 𝑄̅ = 1, the output of the G1 is complement of X, i.e., 𝑄 = 𝑋̅ = 𝑌 = 0. However, the output
of the G1 serving as input to G2, i.e., 𝑄 = 𝑌 = 1 and output of G2 complement of Y, i.e., 𝑄̅ =
𝑌̅ = 𝑋 = 1. Thus the bistable element is stable with 𝑄 = 𝑋̅ = 𝑌 = 0 and 𝑄̅ = 𝑌̅ = 𝑋 = 1
The above discussion has proved that, the bistable element has two stable states, hence, the
bistable element can be used to store binary symbols. When the output Q=1, indicates storing of
binary symbol ‘1’, and when the output Q=0, indicates, storing of binary symbol ‘0’. The binary
symbol that is stored in the bistable element is called content or state. The state of the bistable
element is given by the signal value at the Q output terminal. Hence the Q output terminal is

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called normal output, while 𝑄̅ output is termed as complementary output. When the device is
storing a ‘1’, it is said to be set or preset. On the other hand, when the device is storing a ‘0’ is
said to be reset or clear.
The bistable element may enter into another equilibrium condition called metastable state,
which occurs when the two outputs are about halfway between those associated with logi-0 and
logic-1, this is invalid state. The bistable element itself quickly move from metastable state to
stable state when internal circuit signal values change say, due to circuit noise. But the amount of
time the bistable element stay in its metastable is unpredictable. Hence, need to avoid the
element entering into the metastable state.

Disadvantages of Bistable element

1. This bistable element has no inputs, so, difficult to fed the data.
2. When the power is applied, it becomes stable in one of its two stable states and remains
in this state until power is removed.
3. No provision to force the device into a particular state.
To overcome these disadvantages, other class of flip-flops need to be designed, one such class
of flip-flop is a latch, which is discussed in the next section.
II.2. Latches:
Latches are one class of flip-flops; the timing of the output changes is not controlled in
latches. i.e., the output responds immediately to change in the input lines. Hence input lines are
continuously need to be interrogated. In this section SR latch using NOR realization and NAND
realization are discussed.

1. SR Latch:
In flip-flops, storing of ‘1’ is called Set and storing of ‘0’ is called Reset, hence the name SR
latch. i.e., Set and Reset Latch. Figure (4) Shows the NOR gate realization of SR latch.

Figure 4: NOR gate realization of SR latch.

In the Figure (4), S and R are Set and Reset inputs respectively, G1 and G2 are NOR
gates, Q and 𝑄̅ are output lines.
The circuit can be analyzed with the following cases.
Case (i): If S=0, and R=1.

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 As we know that, output of NOR gate is always ‘0’ if any one input is ‘1’, So if R=1, output
of G1 is ‘0’ irrespective of other input i.e., 𝑄 = 0 and output of G1 is one of the input for G2.
Now, G2 takes the values S=0 and 𝑄 = 0, therefore, 𝑄̅ = 1. This operation is called reset.
With the same reset state, let us consider S=0 and R=0.
R=0 and previous output 𝑄̅ = 1 are the inputs for G1 and the output of G1 is 0, i.e., 𝑄 = 0
similarly, S=0 and Q=0 are the input for G2 and the output of G2 is 1, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 1. From the
discussion, it has been observed that, for the values of R=S=0, the SR latch retains the previous
data. This operation is memory (storing of binary symbol ‘0’). Case (ii): If S=1, and R=0.
If S=1, output of G2 is ‘0’ irrespective of other input i.e., 𝑄̅ = 0 and output of G2 is one of
the input for G1. Now, G1 takes the values S=0 and 𝑄̅ = 0, therefore, 𝑄 = 1. This operation is
called Set.
With the same set state, let us consider S=0 and R=0.
S=0 and previous output 𝑄 = 1 are the inputs for G2 and the output of G2 is 0, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 0
similarly, S=0 and 𝑄̅=0 are the input for G1 and the output of G1 is 1, i.e., 𝑄 = 1. From the
discussion, it has been observed that, for the values of R=S=0, the SR latch retains the previous
data. This operation is memory (storing of binary symbol ‘1’).
Case (iii): if S=1, and R=1.
If S=1, irrespective of the other input, the output of G2 is ‘0’, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 0, G1 takes the inputs
R=1 and 𝑄̅ = 0, so the output of G1 is ‘0’, i.e., Q=0. This is invalid /Not used / forbidden case of
SR latch.
Figure (5) shows the two different logic symbols of SR latch.

Figure 5: Logic Symbol of SR latch

Table (1) shows the truth table of SR latch, which summarizes the operations of SR latch
in two different methods. Table (2) shows the characteristic table of SR latch and Table (3) shows
the excitation table.
Characteristic table: Tabular form of generation of output from present input and previous
output is called characteristic table.
Excitation table: Tabular form of finding inputs to change present state to required next state
is called excitation table. Present state is denoted as Qn and next state is denoted as Qn+1.

Truth Table-I Truth Table-II

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 Inputs Outputs Inputs Output
S R Q 𝑸̅ S R Qn+1
0 0 Memory 0 0 Qn
0 1 0 1 0 1 0
1 0 1 0 1 0 1
1 1 Forbidden (NOT USED) 1 1 Forbidden (NOT USED)

Table 1: Truth table of SR Latch Table 2: Function table of SR Latch

Characteristic table:
Inputs Output

Qn S R Qn+1
0 0 0 0
0 0 1 0
0 1 0 1
0 1 1 X
1 0 0 1
1 0 1 0
1 1 0 1
1 1 1 X

Table 3: Characteristic table of SR Latch K-map

simplification

𝑄𝑛+1 = 𝑄𝑛𝑅̅ + 𝑆 − − − (3)

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 Equation (3) is called characteristic equations, which is the Boolean equation or algebraic
description of the next state of a flip-flop in terms of present inputs and previous outputs.

Excitation table:
Inputs Outputs

Qn Qn+1 S 𝑹

0 0 0 X

0 1 1 0

1 0 0 1

1 1 X 0

Table 4: Excitation table of SR Latch

K- map simplification for S K- map simplification for R

𝑆 = 𝑄𝑛+1 − − − (4) 𝑅 = 𝑄̅𝑛+1 − − − (5)

Equations (4) and (5) represents the Boolean equation or algebraic description of the
excitations (input values) in terms in terms of the desired state.

2. ̅𝑺𝑹̅ Latch
Figure (6) Shows the NAND gate realization of SR latch.

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 Figure 6: NAND gate realization of ̅𝑺𝑹̅ latch.

In the Figure (6), S and R are Set and Reset inputs respectively, G1 and G2 are NAND gates,
Q and 𝑄̅ are output lines.
The circuit can be analyzed with the following cases.
Case (i): If 𝑆̅ = 0, and 𝑅̅ = 1.
As we know that, output of NAND gate is always ‘1’ if any one input is ‘0’, So if 𝑆̅ = 0,
output of G1 is ‘1’ irrespective of other input i.e., 𝑄 = 1 and output of G1 is one of the input for
G2.
Now, G2 takes the values 𝑅̅ = 1. and 𝑄 = 1, therefore, 𝑄̅ = 0. This operation is called Set.
With the same reset state, let us consider 𝑆̅ = 1 and 𝑅̅ = 1.
𝑆̅ = 1 and previous output 𝑄̅ = 0 are the inputs for G1 and the output of G1 is 1, i.e., 𝑄 = 1
similarly, 𝑅̅ = 1 and Q=1 are the input for G2 and the output of G2 is 1, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 0. From the
discussion, it has been observed that, for the values of 𝑅̅ = 𝑆̅ = 1, the 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch retains the
previous data. This operation is memory (storing of binary symbol ‘1’).

Case (ii): If 𝑆̅ = 1 and 𝑅̅ = 0

If 𝑅̅ = 0, output of G2 is ‘1’ irrespective of other input i.e., 𝑄̅ = 1 and output of G2 is one of
the input for G1. Now, G1 takes the values 𝑆̅ = 1 and 𝑄̅ = 1, therefore, 𝑄 = 0. This operation is
called Reset.
With the same set state, let us consider 𝑆̅ = 1 and 𝑅̅ = 1.
𝑆̅ = 1and previous output 𝑄̅ = 1 are the inputs for G1 and the output of G1 is 0, i.e., 𝑄 = 0
similarly, 𝑅̅ = 1 and 𝑄 =0 are the input for G2 and the output of G2 is 1, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 1. From the
discussion, it has been observed that, for the values of 𝑆̅ = 1 and 𝑅̅ = 1, the SR latch retains the
previous data. This operation is memory (storing of binary symbol ‘0’).

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 Case (iii): If 𝑆̅ = 0 and 𝑅̅ = 0
If 𝑆̅ = 0 irrespective of the other input, the output of G1 is ‘1’, i.e.,𝑄 = 1, G1 takes the inputs
𝑅̅ = 0 and 𝑄 = 1, so the output of G2 is ‘1’, i.e., 𝑄̅ = 1. This is invalid /Not used / forbidden case
of SR latch.
Figure (7) shows the logic symbols of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch.

Figure 7: Logic Symbol of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch

Table (5) shows the truth table of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch, which summarizes the operations of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch
in two different methods. Table (6) shows the characteristic table of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch and Table (7) shows
the excitation table.
Characteristic table: Tabular form of generation of output from present input and previous
output is called characteristic table.
Excitation table: Tabular form of finding inputs to change present state to required next state is
called excitation table. Present state is denoted as Qn and next state is denoted as Qn+1.

Truth Table-I Truth Table-II

Inputs Outputs Input Output

s
̅𝑺 𝑹̅ Q
̅𝑺 𝑹̅ Qn+1
Forbidden Forbidden
0 0 0 0
USED) (NOT USED)
0 1 1 0 0 1 1
1 0 0
1 0 0 1
1 1 Qn
1 1 Memory

Table 5: Truth table of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ Latch Table 5: Function table of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ Latch

Characteristic table:

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 Inputs Output

Qn ̅𝑺 𝑹̅ Qn+1
0 0 0 X
0 0 1 1
0 1 0 0
0 1 1 0
1 0 0 X
1 0 1 1
1 1 0 0
1 1 1 1
Table 6: Characteristic table of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ Latch Excitation
table:
Inputs Outputs

Qn Qn+1 ̅𝑺 𝑹̅

0 0 1 X

0 1 0 1

1 0 1 0

1 1 X 1

Table 7: Excitaion table of 𝑆̅𝑅̅ Latch

3. Gated SR Latch

In normal SR and 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latches outputs will change immediately just after the change in
input values. It is frequently desirable to avoid change in input values from affecting the state of
the latch immediately. In order to allow the input changes to be effective only during a prescribed
period of time, an enable signal is introduced. SR latch with enable is called gated SR latch or
clocked latch or controlled latch.
In the following section gated 𝑆̅𝑅̅ is discussed. An enable input can be introduced by two
additional NAND gates with a control input ‘C’, shown in figure (7).

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 Figure 8: Gated SR latch

In the figure (8), G1 and G2 are two additional NAND gates connected to introduce control
input/enable input. Cross coupling of G3 and G4 forms a 𝑆̅𝑅.̅ The inputs to the 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch are
denoted as S* and R*, and these values depends on SR and enable input signal.
The gated SR latch arrangement shown in figure (7) can be analyzed with the following cases
as follows. Before that, make a note of the expressions for S* and R*
𝑆∗ = ̅𝑆̅.̅𝐸𝑛̅̅ => 𝑆̅ + ̅𝐸𝑛̅̅ − − − (6)
𝑅∗ = ̅𝑅̅.̅𝐸𝑛̅̅ => 𝑅̅ + ̅𝐸𝑛̅̅ − − − (7)

Case (i): S=X, R=X, and En=0.

If 𝐸𝑛 = 0, irrespective of the S and R inputs, 𝑆∗ = 𝑅∗ = 1 and for these inputs, 𝑆̅𝑅̅ latch outputs
stay at the previous state called memory operation. This case is the evident for the gated SR latch
control input makes insensitive to the change in input values.
Case (ii); S=0, R=0, and En=1.
If S=R=0 and En=1, S*=1 and R*=1, Memory operation.
Case (iii): S=0, R=1 and En=1
If S=0, R=1 and En=1, S*=1 and R*=0, Reset operation (storing binary symbol ‘0’).
Case (iv): S=1, R=0 and En=1
If S=1, R=0 and En=1, S*=0 and R*=1, Set operation (storing binary symbol ‘1’).
Case (v): S=1, R=1 and En=1
If S=1, R=1 and En=1, S*=1 and R*=1, Invalid state (NOT used).
Figure (9) shows the two different logic symbols of gated SR latch.

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 Figure 9: Logic Symbols of gated SR latch

Table (8 & 9) shows the truth table/function table of gated SR which summarizes the
operations gated SR latch in two different methods. Table (10) shows the characteristic table of
gated SR latch and Table (11) shows the excitation table.
Characteristic table: Tabular form of generation of output from present input and previous
output is called characteristic table.
Excitation table: Tabular form of finding inputs to change present state to required next state is
called excitation table. Present state is denoted as Qn and next state is denoted as Qn+1.

Truth Table-I Truth Table-II

Inputs Outputs Inputs Output
En 𝑺 𝑹 Q 𝑸̅ 𝑺 𝑹 Qn+1
0 X X Memory 0 0 Qn
1 0 0 Memory 0 1 0

1 0 1 0 1 0 1
Forbidden
1 1 0 1 1 1
(NOT USED)
1 Forbidd
1 1
USED)

Table 8: Truth Table of Gated SR latch Table 9: Function Table of Gated SR latch

Characteristic table:
Inputs Output

Qn 𝑺 𝑹 Qn+1
0 0 0 0
0 0 1 0
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 0 1 0 1
0 1 1 X
1 0 0 1
1 0 1 0
1 1 0 1
1 1 1 X

Table 10: Characteristic Table of Gated SR latch

K-map simplification

𝑄𝑛+1 = 𝑄𝑛𝑅̅ + 𝑆 − − − (8)

Equation (8) is called characteristic equations, which is the Boolean equation or algebraic
description of the next state of a flip-flop in terms of present inputs and previous outputs.
Excitation table:
Inputs Outputs

Qn Qn+1 𝑺 𝑹

0 0 0 X

0 1 1 0

1 0 0 1

1 1 X 0

Table 11: Excitation Table of Gated SR latch

4. Gated D Latch
All input combinations of the above latches are not recommended, in gated latch, only
specific input combinations are considered. In particular, the non-control inputs S and R are

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simultaneously active. Hence introducing a NOT gate between S and R inputs to make a single
input denoted as ‘D’ called gated ‘Data’ latch, shown in figure ().

Figure 10 : Gated D latch

The opearation of the gated D latch is discussed as follows.

Case (i): D=0 and En=1
If D = 0 and En=1, the signals S =0 and R=1, S*=1 and R*=0, then Q=0 and 𝑄̅ = 1 this is the
combination for reset operation (Storing binary symbol ‘0’) Case (ii): D=1 and En=1
If D=1 and En=1, the signals S=1 and R=0, S*=0 and R*=1, then Q=1and 𝑄̅ = 0 this is the
combination for set operation (Storing binary symbol ‘1’)
Case (iii): D=X and En=0
If D=X and En=0, the signals S*=1 and R*=1 irrespective of D, this is the combination for
retaining the data called memory operation.
Figure (8) shows the two different logic symbols of gated SR latch.

Figure 11: Logic Symbols of gated D latch

Table (12 & 13) shows the truth table of gated D which summarizes the operations gated
D latch in two different methods. Table (14) shows the characteristic table of gated D latch and
Table (15) shows the excitation table.

Truth Table-I Truth Table-II

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 Inputs Outpu Input Output
En 𝑫 Q 𝑫 Qn+1
0 X Memo 0 0
1 0 0 0 1
1 1 1

Table 12: Truth Table of Gated D latch Table 13: Function Table of Gated D latch
Characteristic table:
Inputs Output
Qn D Qn+1
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 0
1 1 1

Table 14: Characteristic Table of Gated D latch K-map

simplification

𝑄𝑛+1 = 𝐷 − − − (9)

Equation (9) is called characteristic equations, which is the Boolean equation or algebraic
description of the next state of a flip-flop in terms of present inputs and previous outputs.
Excitation table:
Inputs Outputs
Qn Qn+1 𝑫
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 0
1 1 1
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 Table 15: Excitation Table of Gated D latch

Difference between Latch and Flip-flop

Latch Flip-Flop
The enable input is not a clock The enable input is a clock
Sensitive to the level Sensitive to the edge
Level triggered Pulse and Edge triggered
Immediate output response Output change occurs in accordance with
within the propagation delays changes in a control line.
Table 16: Difference between Latch and Flip-Flop Clock
signal or clock pulse:
Clock pulse is a continuous, precisely spaced changes in amplitude (voltage) levels. It decides
the time of the input applied to the system. Basically clock pulses are in the form of square wave
with 50% duty cycle. Figure () shows the 50% duty cycle clock pulse, which is used to
synchronize the operations of sequential digital circuits.

Figure 12: Clock pulse

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 Characteristic parameters of clock pulse is frequency and Time period. Frequency is the
number of cycles output will perform in one second an Time period is the amount of time
required to complete one cycle (Positive level as well as negative level). Time period is the
reciprocal of frequency.
i.e., 𝑇 = 1
− − − (10) where, f is the frequency in Hz.
𝑓

Duty cycle of clock pulse is the ratio of ON time to total time. In the figure () ON time and OFF
time are mentioned for reference.

Figure 13: Duty cycle of clock pulse

𝑇𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 = 𝑇𝑂𝑁 + 𝑇𝑂𝐹𝐹 − − − (11)
𝑇𝑂𝑁
% 𝑜𝑓 𝐷𝑢𝑡𝑦 𝐶𝑦𝑐𝑙𝑒 = ∗ 100 − − − (12)
𝑇𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙
Figure (13) shows the ideal clock, which has no rise time and fall times, but for practice the rise
time and fall time need to be considered. Figure () shows the practical clock pulse.

Figure 14: Practical clock with rise and fall times

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 Where, tr is the rise time and tf is the fall time.
Timing considerations:
The response of any system is non-instantaneous with the applied input, i.e., the systems will
take certain time to respond for the applied input/s. Means appropriate delay occurs due to time
delays associated with the gates themselves. To achieve desired responses, timing constraints
must be satisfied.
1. Propagation delay:
The time taken to produce output with respect to change in an input is called propagation
delay. The propagation delay between each pair of input and output terminals is different due to
change occurs to move from low to high or vice-versa.
Propagation delay is illustrated in the figure (), the midpoints highlighted in the clock pulse
are used to specify the time delays. Effect of setting and resetting operation of SR latch is taken
as an example for the demonstration of propagation delay.

Figure 15: Illustration of Propagation delay

It should be note that, the outputs do not change instantaneously to an input change nor do the
output change simultaneously. In the figure (15), propagation delays from low to high is denoted as
tLPH and high to low is denoted as tPHL. In general, tLPH and tPHL are different at Q and 𝑄̅.

For further analysis, ideal clocks are considered for simplifying the analysis.
Figure (16) shows the timing diagram of SR latch. Timing diagram is a graph that depicts the
input and output transitions of a flip-flop or a latch as a function of time.

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 Figure 16: Timing diagram of SR latch.
From the figure (), it should be note that, when S=R=1, both Q and 𝑄̅ outputs become 0. In
addition, special attention should be given to the response of the latch at time t15. Here it is
assumed that the signals on the S and R input terminals are simultaneously changed from 1 to 0.
As a consequence, the response of the latch is unpredictable as indicated by the shaded area. The
latch may be in its 0-state, or metastable. At time t16 , however the application of the 1 on the set
input terminal returns the latch to predictable behavior after a short propagation delay time.

II.3. Flip-Flops
Latches have a property called transparency, means the output change occurs
immediately when the input change occurs. In certain applications, this is an undesirable
property. Hence it is necessary to synchronize the change in output with control line. The
device/element which has a property of synchronizing output change in accordance with the
control line is called flip-flop. Classification of Flip-flops

1. Pulse Triggered Flip-flops

The behavior of flip-flops dependent upon the rising and falling edges of the clock signal as
well as the period of time in which the control signal is high.

Examples: MSSR and MSJK

2. Edge Triggered Flip-flops

The behavior of the flip-flop is dependent on either rising edge or positive edge of the control
signal, is called edge triggered flip-flops.
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Examples: Positive edge and negative edge triggered

In this section pulse triggered master slave SR flip- flops are discussed.

1. Pulse triggered Master slave SR flip-flop.

Master slave SR flip-flop can be constructed using two SR latches with an inverter shown in
figure
(17). The inputs S and R are used to set and reset the flip-flop. A clock signal ‘Clk’ is applied
to control the input line.

Figure 17: Pusle triggered Master Slave SR flip flop

The operation of the pulse triggered Master-Slave SR flip flop is explained as follows. The
first SR latch shown in figure (17) is called Master latch and the second latch is called Slave
latch. The slave latch is driven by master latch. Master latch gets enabled at rising edge of the
clock pulse and active for entire ON period of the clock pulse. QM and QM’ are the outputs of
the master latch. The slave latch will enable at the falling edge of the clock pulse because of the
NOT gate.
Figure shows the status of master and slave latches with practical clock pulse.
Master latch is active from time t2 to t3, at the same time slave is disabled. Slave latch is
active before t1 and after t4, hence, if either master latch or slave latch is active at a time, not
both simultaneously.

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 Figure 18: Illustration of enable and disable period of master and slave latches with practical
clock.

Case (i): If clock =0, the master latch is disabled and any changes on S and R are neglected.
At the same time slave latch is enabled because of NOT gate and slave output is same as that of
the master latch, since outputs (QM and QM’) of master latch serves as inputs (SS and RS) to the
slave latch. Case (ii) If clock signal rises to high, i.e., at the rising edge of the clock pulse, slave
latch is disabled and master latch enabled at time t2. During the ON period (from t2 to t3), the
master latch responds to the inputs on S and R lines, meanwhile slave latch is disabled and any
change on the master latch are not reflected in slave latch, hence the output is same as the
previous state.
Case (iii) If clock signal reduces to zero, i.e., at the falling edge of the clock pulse, the slave
latch is enabled and master latch is disabled. The output of the slave latch is the same as the state
of master latch as mentioned in case (i).
Table (17), summarized the functionality of master slave SR flip-flop.

Function table/Truth Table

Clock S R 𝑸𝑵+𝟏 ̅𝑸̅𝑵̅+̅𝟏̅

1 0 0 𝑄𝑁 ̅𝑄̅𝑁̅

1 0 1 0 1

1 1 0 1 0

1 1 1 X X

0 X X 𝑄𝑁 ̅𝑄̅𝑁̅

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 Table 17: Function Table of Master slave SR flip-flop

Timing Diagram
The analysis of flip-flops is easy with timing diagrams, the timing diagram for the random
sequence of S and R inputs is shown in figure ().
Example-1

Figure 19: Timing diagram of Master Slave SR Flip-Flop.

• At the first rising edge of the clock pulse, S=1 and R=0, hence QM=1, QM’=0.
• At the falling edge of the clock pulse, slave latch takes QM and QM’ as SS and RS inputs
respectively and slave outputs Q=1 and Q’=0.
• At the second rising edge of the clock pulse, S input is zero and R input is high, hence
master latch enters into reset state, i.e., QM=0 and QM’=1.
• At the second falling edge of the clock pulse, the master latch outputs are reflected at the
slave latch.
• It is observed that, during the OFF period of the clock pulse, S input line has changed, but
it is not reflected on Master latch, since master is disabled during the OFF period of the
clock pulse.
• If S=0 and R=0, the master slave flip flop retains the previous state and if S=1 and R=1,
the master slave SR flip-flop will enter invalid state.
Logic Symbol
Figures ( 20a and b) shows the logic symbols of Master slave SR flip-flop.

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 Figure 20: Logic Symbol of Master Slave SR flip-flop
Note: The symbol, ¬ is the output postpone indicator, indicates the output of the response
postponed until the negative edge of the clock pulse.

2. Master Slave JK Flip-flop

The invalid state of SR flip-flop can be eliminated by using Master slave JK flip-flop, figure ()
shows the logic diagram of master slave JK flip-flop, which consisting cascade connection of
two SR latches with feedback. First latch is called master latch and second latch is called slave
latch.

Figure 21: Logic diagram of Master Slave JK Flip-Flop

The master latch will drive the slave latch, at the rising edge of the clock pulse, the master
latch gets enabled and responds for any change on input lines S and R. The slave latch starts
activating at the negative edge of the clock pulse and responds to the inputs taken by the output
of master latch.

The master slave JK flip-flop is converted invalid state of SR flip-flop to toggle condition.
This operation is discussed as follows.

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 • Assume, the initial state of the flip-flop is Q=1 and Q’=0, At the rising edge of the clock
pulse, if J and K inputs are 1’s, the master latch resets and slave latch also resets at the
falling edge, hence, Q=0 and Q’=1.
• Assume, the initial state of the flip flop is Q=0 and Q’=1. At the rising edge of the clock
pulse, if J=1 and K=1, the master lath sets and slave latch also sets at the negative edge of
the clock pulse. i.e. Q=1 and Q’=0.
By observing the above cases, the output of the flip-flop is the complement of the
previous state called toggling.

Table (18) summarizes the functionality of Master slave JK flip-flop.

Clock J K 𝑸𝑵+𝟏 𝑸̅̅𝑵̅+̅𝟏̅

0 X X 𝑄𝑁 ̅𝑄𝑁̅ ̅
1 0 0 𝑄𝑁 ̅𝑄𝑁̅ ̅
1 0 1 0 1
1 1 0 1 0
1 1 1 Toggle
Table 18: Function Table of Master slave JK flip-flop
Timing diagram
Figure () shows the timing diagram of master slave JK flip-flop

Figure 22: Timing diagram of Master Slave JK Flip-Flop

At the trailing edges of the clock pulse, the master slave responds as per the changes on input
lines J and K. Refer function table.

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 0’s and 1’s catching
If the slave latch is in set state, and logic -1 on the K-input line during the ON period of the
clock signal causes, master latch to reset, then, the slave latch resets when the clock signal
returns to zero. This behavior is called 0’s catching.

If the slave latch is in reset state, and logic-1 on the J-input line during the ON period of the
clock signal causes, master latch to set, then, the lave latch sets when the clock signal returns to
zero.
This behavior is called 1’s catching.
NOTE: Once the master latch is reset by logic-1 signal on K input line, a subsequent logic -1
signal on the J input line during the same period in which c=1 does not change its state until C
returns to zero, due to feedback. The feedback signal from slave latch Q’=0, keeps the output
J-input NAND gate at logic-0.

3. D flip-flop using Master Slave SR flip-flop

D flip-flop is the data flip-flop, which is designed using master slave SR flip-flop, by placing
an inverter between the S and R inputs shown in figure (23).

Figure 23: Logic Symbol of D flip-flop using Master Slave SR Flip-Flop

• If Clk=0, the output of the flip-flop is same as that of the previous state, irrespective of
the levels of input D.
• If Clk=1, the data at the input line will be transferred to the output, i.e., Q=D.

Function Table
Table (19) summarizes the functionality of master slave SR D-flip flop

Clock D 𝑸𝑵+𝟏 ̅𝑸̅𝑵̅+̅𝟏̅

0 X 𝑄𝑁 ̅𝑄̅𝑁̅

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 1 0 0 1

1 1 1 0

Table 19: Function Table of D Flip-flop

4. T Flip-flop using Master Slave JK flip-flop

The toggling state of master slave JK flip-flop is used for the design of counters, hence special
type of flip-flop can be designed by joining J and K input lines shown in figure (24). This type of
flip-flop is called T flip-flop; T stands for Toggle.

Figure 24: Logic symbol of pulse triggered triggered T flip-flop

Function table:
The functionality of the T flip-flop is summarized in the table (20).

Clock T 𝑸𝑵+𝟏 ̅𝑸̅𝑵̅+̅𝟏̅

0 X 𝑄𝑁 ̅𝑄𝑁̅ ̅
1 0 𝑄𝑁 ̅𝑄𝑁̅ ̅
1 1 ̅𝑄𝑁̅ ̅ 𝑄𝑁
Table 20: Function Table of T flip-flop Edge
Triggered Flip-flops.
The edge triggered flip-flops, use just one of the edges of the clock signal to effective reading
of the information input line, this is referred t as edge triggering.
Two types of edges in clock signal, positive edge and negative edge, i.e., triggering occurs
either on positive edge or negative edge.

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 The response of the flip-flops on triggering edge immediately occurs on rising edge or falling
edge. Once triggering occurs, flip-flop is insensitive to the changes on input line until the next
triggering edge.
1. Positive edge triggered D Flip-flop.
Positive edge triggered D flip-flop can be designed using three pairs of cross coupled NAND
gates, i.e., positive edge triggered D flip-flop consisting of three S’R’ latches shown in figure
(25).

Figure 25: Logic diagram of Positive edge triggered D flip-flop

The working of the flip-flop is described as follows.
Case (i): If clock =0, regardless of the input at D, the outputs of NAND gates 2 and 3 are 1.
These signals are the inputs for the NAND gates 5 and 6 (NAND gates 5 and 6 acts as an S’R’
latch), if
S’=1 and R’=1, S’R’ latch retains the previous state.
Case(ii): At the rising edge of the clock pulse and D=0, the output of NAND gates 2 and 3 are
1 and 0 respectively, this causes the S’R’ latch to reset. It is observed that, during the ON period
of the clock pulse, if D input changes to 1, the flip-flop remains at the reset state. The flip-flop
will not recognize any change occurs at input line until the next rising edge of the clock pulse.
Case (iii): At the rising edge of the clock pulse and D=1, the output of NAND gates 2 and 3 are 1
and 0 respectively, this causes the S’R’ latch to Set. It is observed that, during the ON period of
Success Bridge Page 45
the clock pulse, if D input changes to 0, the flip-flop remains at the set state. The flip-flop will
not recognize any change occurs at input line until the next rising edge of the clock pulse.
Table (21) summarizes the functionality of positive edge triggered D flip-flop.
Function table.
Inputs Outputs
𝐃 𝐂𝐥𝐤 𝐐𝐧+𝟏 ̅𝐐̅𝐧̅+̅𝟏̅
0 ↑ 0 1 Set
1 ↑ 1 0 Reset
X 0 𝑄𝑛 ̅𝑄̅𝑛̅ Previous state
X 1 𝑄𝑛 ̅𝑄̅𝑛̅ Previous state
Table 21: Function Table of Positive edge triggered D flip-flop Figure
(26) shows the logic symbols of positive edge triggered D flip-flop.

Figure 26: Logic Symbol of positive edge triggered D flip-flop Timing

diagram

Figure 27: Timing diagram of positive edge triggered D flip-flop

2. Negative edge triggered D flip-flop
Figure (28) shows the logic diagram of negative edge triggered flip-flop, the functionality of
this flip-flop is same as that of the positive edge triggered flip-flop except the state transition of
the flip-flop takes place at the falling edge of the clock pulse.

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 Figure 28: Logic diagram of neeagtive edge triggered D flip-flop

Function table

Inputs Outputs
𝐃 𝐂𝐥𝐤 𝐐𝐧+𝟏 ̅𝐐̅𝐧̅+̅𝟏̅
0 ↓ 0 1 Set
1 ↓ 1 0 Reset
X 0 𝑄𝑛 ̅𝑄̅𝑛̅ Previous state
X 1 𝑄𝑛 ̅𝑄̅𝑛̅ Previous state

Table 22: Function Table of Negative edge triggered D flip-flop

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 Logic symbol

Figure 29: Logic symbol of negative edge triggered D flip-flop

Asynchronous Inputs
All information input lines of flip flops are synchronous inputs, to have more flexibility, two
additional inputs have been introduced to set and reset forcibly. These input lines are called
asynchronous inputs denoted as PR’ and CLR’, that is these input line do not depend on the
control/clock signal.
Figure (30) shows the positive edge triggered D flip-flop with asynchronous inputs.

Figure 30: Logic diagram of edge triggered D flip-flop with asynchronous inputs

The operation of asynchronous input on flip-flop is discussed as follows.

Case (i) : If PR’=0 and CLR’=1, regardless of the input clock and D, the outputs of gates 5
and 6 are 1 and 0, hence with asynchronous inputs, the initial state of the device can be set into
Success Bridge Page 48
set state. Case (ii): If PR’=1 and CLR’=0, regardless of the inputs clock and D, the outputs of
gates 5 and 6 are 0 and 1 respectively, hence the asynchronous inputs, force the device to enter
into reset state.
Case (iii): If PR’=0 and CLR’=0, regardless of the clock and D inputs, the outputs of gates 5
and 6 are 1, which is invalid state, hence need to avoid applying logic zero through the
asynchronous inputs.
Case (iv): if PR’=1and CLR’=1, the flip flop responds as per the input line and clock signal.

Table (23) summarized the functionality.

Inputs Outputs
̅
̅𝐏𝐑̅̅ 𝐂𝐋𝐑̅̅ 𝐃 𝐂𝐥𝐤 𝐐𝐧+𝟏 ̅𝐐̅𝐧̅+̅𝟏̅
0 1 X X 1 0 Initial state forced to set.
1 0 X X 0 1 Initial state forced to reset
0 0 X X 1 1 Invalid
1 1 0 ↑ 0 1 Set
1 1 1 ↑ 1 0 Reset
1 1 X 0 𝑄𝑛 ̅𝑄̅𝑛̅ Previous state
1 1 X 1 𝑄𝑛 ̅𝑄̅𝑛̅ Previous state

Table 23: Function Table of Positive edge triggered D flip-flop with asynchronous inputs

Logic symbol

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 Figure 31: Logic symbol of edge triggered D flip-flop with asynchronous inputs

III. Registers
A single flip-flop is able to store single bit information either 0 or 1, but to store more
than one bit information, a group of flip-flops need to be connected. A group of flip-flops is
called a register. If a register contains n flip-flops, it is able to stor n bit information.
Registers can be used to generate the specified sequence and can also be used to shift the
content of flip-flop position wise, based on this the applications of registers are classified into
two categories.
1. Shift registers and
2. Counters
1. Shift registers
A shift register is an entity of flip-flops, which are capable of shifting the state of flip-flop
positionwise in one direction or two directions.
Example: To store 4-bit data 1001, four flip-flops are used.

Figure 32: Basic shift register

Based on the direction of shifting the content of flip-flop, shift registers are classified into two
types.
a) Unidirectional shift registers
The unidirectional shift registers, shifts the contents of flip-flops in only one direction either
right shift or left shift.
b) Bideirectional shift registers
The Bidirectional shift registers are capable of performing right shift as well as left shift
through a proper control signal.
c) Universal shift register
The universal shift registers are capable of performing right shift as well as left shift through a
proper control signal along with parallel loading and memory.

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 Shift registers further classified into four types, based on the way the input is loaded and the
output is received.
a) Serial input and serial ouptut
The information will be loaded serially through a single line and output will be received
serially through a single line is called serial input and serial output (SISO) shift register shown in
figure (33).

Figure 33: SISO Shift register

b) Serial input and parallel output the information will be loaded serially through a single line and
output will be received in parallel through multiple lines is called serial input parallel output
(SIPO) shift register shown in figure (34).

Figure 34: SIPO Shift register

c) Parallel input and serial output
The information bits will be loaded in parallel through multiple lines and output will be
received through a single line is called parallel input serial output (PISO) shift register shown in
figure (35).

Figure 35: SISO Shift register

d) Parallel input and parallel output
The information bits will be loaded in parallel through multiple lines and output will be taken
in parallel with multiple output lines is called parallel input parallel output (PIPO) shift register
shown in figure (36).

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 Figure 36: SISO Shift register

1. Serial input serial output (SISO) unidirectional shift register

Figure (37, shows the logic diagram of 4-bit sireial input serial output shift registers, designed
using four D flip-flops, all the flip-flops are positive edge triggered flip flops. Logic Diagram:

Figure 37: SISO Shift register

At the every rising edge of the clock pulse, the contents of flip-flops will be shifted towards
the succeeding stages of the flip-flops position wise.

Truth table

Table 24: Truth table of SISO shift register Timing

diagarm

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 Figure 38: Timing diagram of SISO shift register

2. Serial input parallel output (SIPO) unidirectional shift register

Figure (39), shows the logic diagram of 4-bit sireial input parallel output shift registers,
designed using four D flip-flops, all the flip-flops are positive edge triggered flip flops. Logic
Diagram:

Figure 39: SIPO Shift register

At the every rising edge of the clock pulse, the contents of flip-flops will be shifted towards
the succeeding stages of the flip-flops position wise.

Truth table

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 Table 25: Truth table of SIPO shift register Timing
diagarm

Figure 40: Timing diagram of SIPO shift register

3. Parallel input Parallel output (PIPO) unidirectional shift register
Figure (41), shows the logic diagram of 4-bit Parallel input parallel output shift registers,
designed using four D flip-flops, all the flip-flops are positive edge triggered flip flops. Logic
Diagram:

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 Figure 41: PIPO Shift register
At the every rising edge of the clock pulse, the contents of flip-flops will be shifted towards
the succeeding stages of the flip-flops position wise.

Truth table

Table 26: Truth table of PIPO shift register

Timing diagram

Figure 42: Timing diagram of PIPO shift register

4. Parallel input Serial output (PISO) unidirectional shift register
Figure (43), shows the logic diagram of 4-bit Parallel input serial output shift registers,
designed using four D flip-flops, all the flip-flops are positive edge triggered flip flops.
̅
• 𝑆ℎ𝑖𝑓𝑡/̅𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑̅̅̅ = 0(𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑙 𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔)
̅
• 𝑆ℎ𝑖𝑓𝑡/̅𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑̅̅ = 1(𝑆ℎ𝑖𝑓𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔)
Logic Diagram:

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 Figure 43: PISO Shift register
At the every rising edge of the clock pulse, the contents of flip-flops will be shifted towards
the succeeding stages of the flip-flops position wise.

Truth table
Parallel Data : D=1111

Clk Q0 Q1 Q2 Q3

0 0 0 0 0

1 1 1 1 1
Parallel d
Loa

2 0 1 1

3 0 0 1 1

4 0 0 0 1

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 Table 27: Truth table of PISO shift register

Timing diagram

Figure 44: Timing diagram of PISO shift registerS

NOTE:
• A single circuit which performs all the shift register operations in single direction
shown in figure (45).
̅
• 𝑆ℎ𝑖𝑓𝑡/̅𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑̅̅ = 0(𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑙 − 𝑖𝑛)
̅
• 𝑆ℎ𝑖𝑓𝑡/̅𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑̅̅ = 1(𝑆𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙 − 𝑖𝑛)

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 Figure 45: Single circuit which performs SISO, SIPO, PIPO and PISO

Bidirectional Shift register

Performs both left shift and right shift
M=0 (Shift left operation), M=1 (Shift right operation)
Logic diagram

Figure 46: Logic diagram of bidirectional shift registers

Universal Shift Register
Bidirectional Shift Register + (SISO, SIPO, PIPO, PISO)+Memory

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 Figure 47: Logic symbol of universal shift register

S1 S0 Register
Operation

0 0 No Change
(Memory)

0 1 Shift left

1 0 Shift right

1 1 Parallel loading

Table 28: Universal shift opearions table

Logic Diagram

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 Figure 48: Logic diagram of universal shift register

NOTE: Students are asked to write the detailed working principle of all the shift registers
(Explanation for all shift registers are omitted in this notes and asked to explain).

IV. Counters
Registers can also be used to generate the specified sequence, counting the binary values
either incrementally or in decrement is an example of sequence. Hence, counter is a sequential
circuit, which counts the pulses either in ascending or descending order. n-bit counter will be
designed using n-flip-flops.

Counters are classified into two types based on the application of clock signal.

1. Synchronous counters and

2. Asynchronous counters.
3.
The clock signal is applied to all the flip-flops of a counter circuit simultaneously is called
synchronous contours.

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 Figure (49) shows the two-bit counter, the clock signal for the two flip-flops are supplied
̅
simultaneously. ̅𝐶𝐿𝑅̅̅ is an asynchronous input, logic-0 to this pin sets the initial value of all the
flip-flop to zero.

Figure 49: Example for synchronous counter

The output of the previous state flip serves as a clock input to the next state flip-flop is called
asynchronous counters.

Figure (50) shows that, the clock input for the second flip-flop will be supplied from the
output of first flip-flop.

Figure 50: Example for asynchronous counter

Similarly, counters can be designed using any type of flip-flops, depending on the counting
sequence, counters are further classified into three types.
1. Up-counter and
Counts the clock pulse incrementally.
2. Down-counter
Counts the clock pulse in decrement order.
3. Ring counter
Outputs the specified sequence in circular/ring format.

Asynchronous UP-Counter (Binary Ripple counter)

Counters whose counting sequence corresponds to that of binary numbers are called
binary counters. The modulus of binary counter is 2𝑛, where n is the number of flip-flops
required to design the counter.
Example:
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 if n=3, the counter performs counting from 000 to 111 (8 combinations(0 to 2𝑛 − 1)), hence
three flip-flops are required. Similarly
If n=4, the counter performs counting from 0000 to 1111 (16 combinations(0 to 2𝑛 − 1)),
hence four flip-flops are required.
Figure (51) shows the logic diagram of 4-bit up counter using positive edge triggered T
flip-flops. Each positive transition of clock makes the flip-flop to toggle. Logic Diagram

Figure 51: Example for asynchronous counter

Output 𝑄̅ of previous order flip-flop serves clock signal for the next order flip-flops, and
clock pulse applied to all the flip-flops is not simultaneous, hence called as asynchronous
counter. T inputs of all flip-flops are connected to logic-1, which acts as a toggle device. Output
of the last stage flip-flop is MSB and the output of first stage flip-flop is LSB.
For every rising edge of the clock pulse the content of first stage(Q0) T-flip-flop will toggles,
for every falling edge of the Q0 the content of second stage(Q1) T-flip-flop will toggles, this
process continues until the last stage flip-flop.
Assume, initially, the contents of all the four T flip-flops are zero. At the rising edge of the
clock pulse Q0 becomes ‘1’ and the remaining flip-flop outputs remains zero. The later stage
flip-flops output change occurs at the next falling edge of the previous stage flip-flop outputs,
shown in the timing diagram figure (52).

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 Figure 52: Timing diagram of 4-bit asynchronous binary ripple up counter

Change in the state of flip-flops occurs through the outputs of the previous stage flip-flops,
that is the effect of count pulse must ripple through the counter. Hence the name ripple counter.
Asynchronous Down-Counter (Binary Ripple counter)
Figure (53) shows the logic diagram of 4-bit down counter using positive edge triggered T
flipflops. Each positive transition of clock makes the flip-flop to toggle. Logic Diagram

Figure 53: Timing diagram of 4-bit asynchronous binary ripple up counter

Output 𝑄̅ of previous order flip-flop serves clock signal for the next order flip-flops, and
clock pulse applied to all the flip-flops is not simultaneous, hence called as asynchronous
counter. T inputs of all flip-flops are connected to logic-1, which acts as a toggle device. Output
̅𝑄̅3̅ of the last stage flip-flop is MSB and the output ̅𝑄0̅ ̅ of first stage flip-flop is LSB.
For every rising edge of the clock pulse the content of first stage(̅𝑄̅0̅) T-flip-flop will toggles,
for every falling edge of the Q0 the content of second stage(Q1) T-flip-flop will toggles, this
process continues until the last stage flip-flop.
Assume, initially, the contents of all the four T flip-flops are zero, hence complement of the
outputs is 1’s. At the rising edge of the clock pulse ̅𝑄̅0̅ becomes ‘0’ and the remaining flip-flop
complement outputs remains 1. The later stage flip-flops output change occurs at the next falling
edge of the previous stage flip-flop outputs, shown in the timing diagram figure (54).

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 Figure 54: Timing diagram of 4-bit asynchronous binary ripple up counter

Change in the state of flip-flops occurs through the outputs of the previous stage flip-flops,
that is the effect of count pulse must ripple through the counter. Hence the name ripple counter

V. Miscellaneous Concepts

Flip-flops conversion

1. SR to D flip-flop

Excitation table Logic diagram

Qn D Qn+1 S R
0 0 0 0 X
0 1 1 1 0
1 0 0 0 1
1 1 1 X 0

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2.
SR
to
JK
flip
-flo
p

E
x
ci
ta
ti
o
n
e
q
u
at
io
n
s
𝑆
=
̅𝑄̅𝑛̅
Ex 𝐽
cit 𝑎𝑛
ati 𝑑
on 𝑅
ta =
bl 𝑄𝑛
e 𝐾
Qn J K Qn+1 S R
0 0 0 0 0 X
0 0 1 0 0 X
0 1 0 1 1 0
0 1 1 1 1 0
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 1 0 0 1 X 0
1 0 1 0 0 1 Excitation equations
1 1 0 1 X 0 ̅
1 1 1 0 0 1

3.
SR
to T

flip-f
lop

Exc Logi
itati c
on Diag
tabl ram
e
Qn T Qn+1 S R
0 0 0 0 X
0 1 1 1 0
1 0 1 X 0
1 1 0 0 1

Excitation equations
𝑆 = 𝑇̅𝑄̅𝑛̅ 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅 = 𝑇𝑄𝑛

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 4. JK to D flip-flop
Excitation table Logic diagram
Qn D Qn+1 J K
0 0 0 0 X
0 1 1 1 X
1 0 0 X 1
1 1 1 X 0
Excitation equations
𝐽=
𝐷
𝑎𝑛𝑑
𝐾=
𝐷̅
5.
JK
to T
flip-f
lop
Exc Logi
itati c
on diag
tabl ram
e
Qn T Qn+1 J K
0 0 0 0 X
0 1 1 1 X
1 0 1 X 0
1 1 0 X 1
Qn T Qn+1 D
0 0 0 0
0 1 1 1
1 0 1 1
1 1 0 0
Exc
itati
on
equ

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 atio
n
𝐷
=
𝑇
⊕
𝑄
𝑛

7. D
to
JK
flip-f
lop
Exc Exci
itati tatio
on n
tabl equ
e atio
n

Excitation equations
𝐽=
𝑇
𝑎𝑛𝑑
𝐾=
𝑇
6. D
to T

flip-f
lop
Exc Logi
itati c
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 on diag
tabl ram
e
Qn J K Qn+1 D
0 0 0 0 0
0 0 1 0 0
0 1 0 1 1
0 1 1 1 1
1 0 0 1 1
1 0 1 0 0
1 1 0 1 1
1 1 1 0 0
𝐷 = 𝑄𝑛𝐾̅ + ̅𝑄𝑛̅ ̅𝐽
Logic diagram

8. T to D flip-flop
Excitation table Logic diagram

Qn D Qn+1 T
0 0 0 0
0 1 1 1
1 0 1 1
1 1 0 0

Excitation equation
𝑇 = 𝑄𝑛 ⊕ 𝐷

9. T-JK Flip-flop
Excitation table Excitation equation

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 Qn J K Qn+1 T 𝑇 = 𝑄𝑛𝐾 + ̅𝑄𝑛̅ ̅𝐽
0 0 0 0 0 Logic diagram
0 0 1 0 0
0 1 0 1 1
0 1 1 1 1
1 0 0 1 0
1 0 1 0 1
1 1 0 1 0
1 1 1 0 1

NOTE: JK to SR, T to SR and D to SR conversion is not possible.

******

UNIT-IV : Counters design and state machines

Counters
Registers can also be used to generate the specified sequence, counting the binary values
either incrementally or in decrement is an example of sequence. Hence, counter is a sequential
circuit, which counts the pulses either in ascending or descending order. n-bit counter will be
designed using n-flip-flops.

Counters are classified into two types based on the application of clock signal.

4. Synchronous counters and

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 5. Asynchronous counters.
6.
The clock signal is applied to all the flip-flops of a counter circuit simultaneously is called
synchronous contours.

Figure (49) shows the two-bit counter, the clock signal for the two flip-flops are supplied
simultaneously. ̅𝐶𝐿𝑅̅̅̅ is an asynchronous input, logic-0 to this pin sets the initial value of all the
flip-flop to zero.

Figure 49: Example for synchronous counter

The output of the previous state flip serves as a clock input to the next state flip-flop is called
asynchronous counters.

Figure (50) shows that, the clock input for the second flip-flop will be supplied from the
output of first flip-flop.

Figure 50: Example for asynchronous counter

Similarly, counters can be designed using any type of flip-flops, depending on the counting
sequence, counters are further classified into three types.
4. Up-counter and
Counts the clock pulse incrementally.
5. Down-counter
Counts the clock pulse in decrement order.
6. Ring counter
Outputs the specified sequence in circular/ring format.

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 Asynchronous UP-Counter (Binary Ripple counter)
Counters whose counting sequence corresponds to that of binary numbers are called
binary counters. The modulus of binary counter is 2𝑛, where n is the number of flip-flops
required to design the counter.
Example:
if n=3, the counter performs counting from 000 to 111 (8 combinations(0 to 2𝑛 − 1)), hence
three flip-flops are required. Similarly
If n=4, the counter performs counting from 0000 to 1111 (16 combinations(0 to 2𝑛 − 1)),
hence four flip-flops are required.
Figure (51) shows the logic diagram of 4-bit up counter using positive edge triggered T
flip-flops. Each positive transition of clock makes the flip-flop to toggle. Logic Diagram

Figure 51: Example for asynchronous counter

Output 𝑄̅ of previous order flip-flop serves clock signal for the next order flip-flops, and
clock pulse applied to all the flip-flops is not simultaneous, hence called as asynchronous
counter. T inputs of all flip-flops are connected to logic-1, which acts as a toggle device. Output
of the last stage flip-flop is MSB and the output of first stage flip-flop is LSB.
For every rising edge of the clock pulse the content of first stage(Q0) T-flip-flop will toggles,
for every falling edge of the Q0 the content of second stage(Q1) T-flip-flop will toggles, this
process continues until the last stage flip-flop.
Assume, initially, the contents of all the four T flip-flops are zero. At the rising edge of the
clock pulse Q0 becomes ‘1’ and the remaining flip-flop outputs remains zero. The later stage
flip-flops output change occurs at the next falling edge of the previous stage flip-flop outputs,
shown in the timing diagram figure (52).

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 Figure 52: Timing diagram of 4-bit asynchronous binary ripple up counter

Change in the state of flip-flops occurs through the outputs of the previous stage flip-flops,
that is the effect of count pulse must ripple through the counter. Hence the name ripple counter.
Asynchronous Down-Counter (Binary Ripple counter)
Figure (53) shows the logic diagram of 4-bit down counter using positive edge triggered T
flipflops. Each positive transition of clock makes the flip-flop to toggle. Logic Diagram

Figure 53: Timing diagram of 4-bit asynchronous binary ripple up counter

Output 𝑄̅ of previous order flip-flop serves clock signal for the next order flip-flops, and
clock pulse applied to all the flip-flops is not simultaneous, hence called as asynchronous
counter. T inputs of all flip-flops are connected to logic-1, which acts as a toggle device. Output
̅𝑄̅3̅ of the last stage flip-flop is MSB and the output ̅𝑄0̅ ̅ of first stage flip-flop is LSB.
For every rising edge of the clock pulse the content of first stage(̅𝑄̅0̅) T-flip-flop will toggles,
for every falling edge of the Q0 the content of second stage(Q1) T-flip-flop will toggles, this
process continues until the last stage flip-flop.
Assume, initially, the contents of all the four T flip-flops are zero, hence complement of the
outputs is 1’s. At the rising edge of the clock pulse ̅𝑄̅0̅ becomes ‘0’ and the remaining flip-flop
complement outputs remains 1. The later stage flip-flops output change occurs at the next falling
edge of the previous stage flip-flop outputs, shown in the timing diagram figure (54).

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 Figure 54: Timing diagram of 4-bit asynchronous binary ripple up counter

Change in the state of flip-flops occurs through the outputs of the previous stage flip-flops,
that is the effect of count pulse must ripple through the counter. Hence the name ripple counter

State diagram.
A graphical representation of the behavior of counters or any sequential circuits is called state
diagram. State diagrams helps for the design of counters easily, which shows the transition from
present states to the next states. Procedure to draw the state diagram.
• Each state is represented by a circle, and the present state should be mentioned inside the
circle.
• Use arrow associated lines to show the transition from present state to the next state.
NOTE: if the present state and next state is same, then connect the arrow associated line
to the same state.
Example: Two bit up-counter, four states counting from 00 to 11.

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 State table
The information contained in the state diagram is tabulated in a tabular form is called state
table also called state synthesis table.
Example: Two-bit counter
Present Next
states states
Q1 Q0 Q1+ Q0+
0 0 0 1
0 1 1 0
1 0 1 1
1 1 0 0

Procedure to design synchronous counters.

1. Identify the number of flip-flops required based on the number of bits of sequence.
2. Draw the state diagram
3. Write the excitation table of the chosen flip-flop.
4. Obtain the excitation table for the complete circuit.
5. simplify the excitation equations using K-map.
6. Draw the logic diagram.
7. Verify the logic diagram by function table and timing diagram.

In the following section, the design of two-bit synchronous counter is discussed using T
flipflop.
1. No. of flip-flops is required =2, two-bit counter – sequence is 00, 01, 10 and 11.
2. State diagram

3. Excitation table of T-flip-flop

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 States Excitations
Q Q+ T
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 1
1 1 0
4. Excitation table for complete circuit

Present Next Excitations

states states
Q1 Q0 Q1+ Q0+ T1 T0
0 0 0 1 0 1
0 1 1 0 1 1
1 0 1 1 0 1
1 1 0 0 1 1

5. K-map simplification

𝑇1 = 𝑄0

𝑇0 = 1
6. Logic diagram

7. Verification
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 Function table
Clock Outputs
Pulse Q1 Q0
0 0 0
1 0 1
2 1 0
3 1 1
4 0 0
Timing diagram

Figure: Timing diagram of two-bit counter

Similarly, counters can be designed using any type of flip-flops, depending on the
counting sequence, counters are further classified into three types.
7. Up-counter and
Counts the clock pulse incrementally.
8. Down-counter
Counts the clock pulse in decrement order.
9. Ring counter
Outputs the specified sequence in circular/ring format.

1. 4-bit synchronous up-counter using T flip-flops.

1. No. of Flip-flops required=04.
2. State diagram

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3. Excitation table of T-flip-flop

States Excitations
+
Q Q T
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 1
1 1 0
4. Excitation table of complete circuit
Present states Next states Excitations

Q3 Q2 Q1 Q0 Q3+ Q2+ Q1+ Q0+ T3 T2 T1 T0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1
0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1
0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1
0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1
0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1
0 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1
0 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 1
0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1
1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1
1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1
1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1
1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1
1 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1
1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1
1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1

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 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1
5. K-map Simplification
𝑇3 = 𝑄2𝑄1𝑄0, 𝑇2 = 𝑄1𝑄0, 𝑇1 = 𝑄0, 𝑇0 = 1
6. Logic Diagram

a. NOTE: 4-bit synchronous counter with count enable input

b. NOTE: 4-bit synchronous counter variation (design using only two input AND gates)

c. 4-bit synchronous counter with parallel loading using JK flip-flops

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 Logic Symbol

2. MOD counters with parallel loading

Example-1: Synchronous Mod-6 counter with parallel loading

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Example-2: MOD-10 Counter

Example-3: MOD-4 Counter

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3. Realization of 8-bit synchronous counter using two 4-bit counters

Figure : 8-bit synchronous counter

Counters based on shift registers registers can also be used to generate the sequences
repeatedly and acts as the counters, there are two types of counters Shift based on shift registers.
1. Ring Counter
The mod of ring counter is n, where n is the number of flip-flops are used in the design.
In the following section discusses the 4-bit ring counter using four D flip-flops shown in
figure (). The previous stage outputs of flip-flops serve as the input to next stage flip-flops and
last stage flip-flop output serves as the input of first stage flip-flop, which shifts the contents of
flip-flops position wise and also in circular.

Figure: 4-bit ring counter

Truth table
Clk Q0 Q1 Q2 Q3
0 1 0 0 0
1 0 1 0 0
2 0 0 1 0

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 3 0 0 0 1
4 1 0 0 0

Initially, the contents of flip-flops (Q0Q1Q2Q3) are assumed as (1000), at every rising edge of
the clock pulse, the content of previous stage flip-flop will be shifted to the next stage flip-flop.
The ring counter generates the four sequence and the sequence repeats after every four clock
pulses, hence the mod of this counter is four.

Timing diagram
Figure shows the timing diagram of 4-bit ring counter.

Figure: Timing diagram of 4-bit ring counter.

2. Twisted ring counter

The twisted ring counter is the modification of ring counter; complemented output of last
stage serves as the input to the first stage flip-flop. The modulus of the twisted ring counter is 2n,
where n is the number of flip-flops are used in the design. Figure () shows the logic diagram of
4-bit twisted ring counter using D flip-flops.

Figure : 4-bit twisted ring counter

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 Initially, the contents of flip-flops (Q0Q1Q2Q3) are assumed as (0000), at the first rising edge
of the clock pulse 𝐷0 = ̅𝑄̅3̅ and hence, 𝑄0 = 𝐷0, 𝑄1 = 𝐷1, 𝑄2 = 𝐷2, 𝑄3 = 𝐷3 this data shift position
wise at the flip-flops at every rising edge of the clock pulse, The twisted ring counter generates
the eight sequence and the sequence repeats after every eight clock pulses, hence the mod of this
counter is eight. The twisted ring counter is also called Johnson counter and switch tail counter.

Truth Table:
Clk Q0 Q1 Q2 Q3
0 0 0 0 0
1 1 0 0 0
2 1 1 0 0
3 1 1 1 0
4 1 1 1 1
5 0 1 1 1
6 0 0 1 1
7 0 0 0 1
8 0 0 0 0

Timing diagram
Figure shows the timing diagram of Johnson counter.

Figure : Timing diagram of twisted ring counter

.

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 ******

NOTE: State machines, state table and state diagram concepts need to be added

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