What Are Logic Gates?
Logic gates are fundamental components of digital electronics. They perform basic logical functions and
are the building blocks of digital circuits. Each gate processes one or more binary inputs to produce a
single binary output.CliffsNotes
Basic Logic Gates
1. AND Gate
o Function: Outputs 1 only if all inputs are 1.
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o Symbol: D-shaped with multiple inputs converging to a single output.
o Truth Table:
A B Output
000
010
100
111
2. OR Gate
o Function: Outputs 1 if any input is 1.nbf.org.pk+3CliffsNotes+3www.slideshare.net+3
o Symbol: Curved shape pointing to the output.
o Truth Table:
A B Output
000
011
101
111
3. NOT Gate (Inverter)
o Function: Outputs the opposite of the input.CliffsNotes+1www.slideshare.net+1
o Symbol: Triangle pointing to a small circle.
o Truth Table:
A Output
01
10
Derived Logic Gates
1. NAND Gate
o Function: Outputs 0 only if all inputs are 1; otherwise, outputs 1.CliffsNotes
o Symbol: AND gate symbol with a small circle at the output.CliffsNotes
o Truth Table:
A B Output
001
011
101
110
2. NOR Gate
o Function: Outputs 1 only if all inputs are 0; otherwise, outputs 0.
o Symbol: OR gate symbol with a small circle at the output.
o Truth Table:
A B Output
001
010
100
110
3. XOR Gate (Exclusive OR)
o Function: Outputs 1 if inputs are different; otherwise, outputs 0.
o Symbol: OR gate symbol with an additional curved line on the input side.
o Truth Table:
A B Output
000
011
101
110
4. XNOR Gate (Exclusive NOR)
o Function: Outputs 1 if inputs are the same; otherwise, outputs 0.
o Symbol: XOR gate symbol with a small circle at the output.
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o Truth Table:
A B Output
001
010
100
111
Universal Gates
NAND and NOR gates are termed universal gates because they can be combined to replicate the
functions of all other basic gates. This makes them highly versatile in digital circuit design.
Applications of Logic Gates
Computing Devices: Form the foundation of CPUs, memory units, and microcontrollers.
Security Systems: Implement access controls and alarm systems.
Consumer Electronics: Used in devices like calculators, digital watches, and smartphones.
CliffsNotes
Automotive Electronics: Control systems within vehicles, such as automatic lighting and safety
mechanisms.
Additional Resources
For a more in-depth understanding, you can refer to the following resources:
National Book Foundation's Grade 11 Computer Science Textbook: Provides comprehensive
coverage of logic gates and their applications.
CliffsNotes on Logic Components: Offers detailed explanations and examples of logic gates in
digital circuits.
YouTube Lecture on Computer Logic and Gates: Visual and auditory learners may benefit from
this lecture that discusses logic gates in the context of the National Book Foundation curriculum.