EE2202 Introduction to Electronic Engineering

Chapter 7: Boolean Algebra and Reduction Techniques

7.1 Combinational Logic Circuits

Introduction to Combinational Logic Circuits

A combinational circuit consists of logic gates whose outputs at any time are determined from
only the present combination of inputs.

It is necessary to implement electrical/electronic devices/circuits that are capable of decision

making base on purely logical reasoning.
 If someone is seated in the driver seat AND has NOT put the seat belt, turn the seat belt
sign ON
 If the key is in AND the driver’s door is open AND NO one is sitting in the seat, turn the
alarm ON.
 Turn the bulb ON if switch A OR B, B closed,
Example –

Bulb = ON if A OR B is closed. The Voltage at Y is HIGH (If A OR B is closed)

VY is HIGH if A AND B OR C is closed. VY is HIGH if A OR B is high

This type of circuits are called LOGIC GATES : Logic gates are electronic circuits that operate on
one or more input signals to produce an output signal.

Operating Characteristics of Logic Gates

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EE2202 Introduction to Electronic Engineering [2017] Department of Electrical and Information Engineering
A logic designer wants to be independent of electrical characteristics of components.

Logic symbols & Truth Tables of basic gates

Other gates in Common use

OR NOR (NOT of AND)

AND NAND (NOT of AND)

NOT EOR (Exclusive OR)

Note:
Fan –in : Number of input
Fan – Out : Number of gate input that can be connected to an output

Logic Circuits
 Obtained by connecting 2 or more gates.
 Operation is fully described by the truth table derived for the circuit.

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EE2202 Introduction to Electronic Engineering [2017] Department of Electrical and Information Engineering