Logic Gate Definition/Meaning:
A device, usually but not exclusively electronic, that implements an
elementary logic function; examples include AND, OR,
NAND, and NOR gates,
and inverters. There are typically between two and eight inputs and one or two
outputs. In order to represent the two logic states, true and false, in
electronic logic gates, the input and output signals are held at either of two
different voltage levels; a high voltage level usually represents true (logic 1)
and a low level false (logic 0).
Each type of logic gate has a logic symbol that conveys its logic function but
does not indicate the electronic circuitry involved. The use of these symbols in
circuit diagrams simplifies the understanding of a complex logic circuit and
means that technological advances in electronics need not be taken into account.
Logic gates based on fluid logic have been successfully used and optical logic
gates, triggered by light, have recently been demonstrated.
See also logic
circuit.
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