ABSTRACT
Digital computers use bits to store information. But a bit is nothing but a switch with two states, on and off. A bit can represent the two truth values true and false. Boolean algebra deals with computations on truth values. A logic gate is universal if it alone can be used to implement any Boolean function. The NAND and NOR gates are universal. Because NAND and NOR gates are economical and easier to fabricate, they are the basic gates used in all integrated circuit (IC) digital logic families. This chapter explores the close relationship between logic and computers. Digital electronic circuits process input signals and produce output signals that represent specific computational results. Software tools are used to help automate various phases of the design, testing, synthesis, and fabrication of ICs. Better hardware leads to faster software, which leads to even better hardware, a wonderful, virtuous cycle, indeed.
