Basic Logic Gates, their Types, Applications

In the digital world, devices like computers, mobiles, laptops, etc., work on simple logical operations called logic gates. Without them, such electronics cannot provide the desired outputs. These ideal computing models are available in various types, and the use of any logic gate depends upon the nature of logical operations and the mechanism in which a circuit works. 

Here, learn about all the basic boolean logic gates that are behind the smooth functioning of our daily routine gadgets.  Also, check out their common applications for in-depth understanding. 

Definition of a Logic Gate

A digital circuit is composed of a fundamental building block, which comes with two inputs and one output value. The building block is known as a logic gate. Different electronics or electrical circuits are based on these gates, and their diodes and transistors work on their principles.

Types of Basic Logic Gates

On the basis of the relationship between binary inputs and outputs and their results, the logic gates are categorized into the following seven types:

  • AND Gate, which implies an output is true only when both inputs are true. If one or both inputs are false, the output is false.
  • OR Gate, which implies that the output is true if any one of its inputs is true. If both inputs are false, then the output is false.
  • NOT Gate implied that the output is the inverse of the input.
  • NAND Gate is a combination of two gates, AND and NOT. The AND gate works first, and then the NOT gate affects the output. In this combination, the output is false only if all its inputs are true.
  • NOR Gate is the combination of OR and NOT gates. Firstly, the OR gate works, and then the NOT gate affects the output. In this relationship, the output is true only if all its inputs are false.
  • XOR Gate implies that the output is true only if the inputs are different.
  • XNOR Gate implies that the output is true only if the inputs are similar.

The results with all the input and output are called truth tables, and you can see the outputs for binary or multiple binary inputs with the help of a truth table generator. These gates are helpful in implementing various logical operations and Boolean functioning.

Practical Applications of Logic Gates with Examples

Let’s check out some of the common yet easy-to-understand examples for AND, OR, and NOT gates.

1. Burglar Alarms- AND Gate

You can understand the AND gate by taking the Burglar alarm as an example. In this alarm system, when the switch is on, and any movement in the home is sensed, it will turn on.

How?

  1. Switching on the alarm is one input.
  1. The movement of any intruder is the second input.

When both are true, the alarm will turn on, which implies that both input values are true and the output is also true. 

2. Door Bell- OR Gate

If a house has a doorbell system covering both the front and the back door, then you can easily understand the OR gate. In case the front bell is pressed or the back-door bell, the bell will ring. This means if any of the input values are true, the result will be true.

3. Central Heating System – NOT Gate

This heating system works on NOT Gate, where you set a temperature range for the temperature sensor. Suppose you set it at 15 degrees. If the temperature is above this range, the heating system will remain off. When the temperature is lower than 15 degrees, the heating system turns on. So, the input and output values work opposite. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a Boolean function? 

It is a logical operation that is based on one or multiple binary inputs with just one output. 

Q: what is a combined logic gate?

A combined logic system combines two or more gates. Here, Boolean expressions based on various relationships between the input values provide the truth table outputs.

Q: What are common devices that work on logic gates?

Some of the common devices that work on logic gates are:

  • Smartphone
  • Calculators
  • Medical devices
  • Laptops
  • TVs
  • Digital cameras

Q: What are truth tables?

Truth tables are the rules on which logic gates work. They showcase the output values for certain input values. To know further more about us, please visit relevant page on our website.

Bottom Line

Digital circuits work smoothly on the implementation of correct logic gates, and this knowledge and accurate application serve as the basis for excelling in various fields. Whether it is a computer, calculator, or any other electric device, everything is based on basic logic gates. Get insight into all the truth tables of these gates by using an authentic truth Table generator.

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