College of Engineering

Department of Software Engineering

Course Title: Embedded System

Course Code: (SWEG4102)

Chapter 1: Introduction to digital logic

By: Kassahun Admkie

PhD candidate in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics , AASTU

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 Chapter 1: Introduction to digital logic
• 1.1 Logic algebra
Outline • 1.2 Logic circuits
• 1.3 Logic devices such as counters, timers
and finite state machines

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 Chapter 1: Introduction to digital logic
➢Digital logic forms the fundamental building blocks of embedded systems,
providing the basis for the design and implementation of intelligent and controlled
functionalities.
➢Understanding digital logic is crucial for software engineers working on embedded
systems, as it lays the foundation for efficient information processing, decision-
making, and interfacing with the physical world.
➢ Digital logic is the language through which embedded systems communicate and
process information.
➢Its principles are integral to both hardware and software aspects of embedded
system design, making it a fundamental area of study for software engineers
working in this field.
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 1.1 Logic algebra
➢ Logic algebra, also known as Boolean algebra, is a mathematical
structure and set of operations that deals with binary variables and
logic operations.
➢ It plays a fundamental role in the design and analysis of digital
circuits, computer systems, and electronic devices.
➢The algebraic rules of logic algebra are based on the work of
mathematician and logician George Boole.

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 Logic algebra…
➢ Key Concepts:

1. Binary Variables: In logic algebra, variables can only take on one of two values: 0 or 1.
These values represent the absence (0) or presence (1) of a logical condition.

2. Logical Operations: Logic algebra includes several fundamental logical operations, each
with specific rules and symbols
❑ AND (Conjunction): denoted by ∧ or ·
• Represents the logical product. The result is 1 only if both operands are 1.
❑ OR (Disjunction): denoted by + or ∨
• Represents the logical sum. The result is 1 if at least one operand is 1.
❑ NOT (Negation): denoted by ¬ or '
• Represents the logical complement. Flips the value of the operand (1 becomes 0,
and 0 becomes 1).
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 Logic algebra…
3. Boolean Expressions: Boolean expressions are combinations of binary variables
and logical operations.

➢They can be used to represent and analyse the behaviour of digital circuits and
systems.

4. Truth Tables: Truth tables are used to represent the output of a Boolean expression
for all possible combinations of input values.

➢They provide a systematic way to analyse and understand the behaviour of logical
operations.

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 Logic algebra…
➢ Basic Laws of Logic Algebra: 4. Commutative Laws:
1. Identity Laws: • A+B=B+A
• A⋅B=B⋅A
• A+0=A
5. Associative Laws:
• A⋅1=A
• (A+B)+C=A+(B+C)
2.Domination Laws: • (A⋅B)⋅C=A⋅(B⋅C)
• 1A+A′=1 6. Distributive Laws:

• 0A⋅A′=0 • A⋅(B+C)=(A⋅B)+(A⋅C)
• A+(B⋅C)=(A+B)⋅(A+C)
3. Idempotent Laws: 7. De Morgan's Laws:
• A+A=A • (A+B)′=A′⋅B′
• A⋅A=A • (A⋅B)′=A′+B′
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 Logic algebra…
➢Applications of Logic Algebra:
1. Digital Circuit Design: Logic algebra is extensively used in designing
and analysing digital circuits, including combinational and sequential
circuits.
2. Computer Systems: The principles of logic algebra are fundamental to
computer architecture, where they govern the operations of logic gates,
arithmetic units, and memory units.
3. Boolean Functions: Logic algebra is employed to represent and
manipulate Boolean functions, which are essential in software design,
control
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systems, and decision-making processes. 8
 Logic algebra…
4. Coding and Error Detection: Error detection and correction codes, such
as parity bits, rely on logic algebra to ensure data integrity in
communication systems.
5. Automated Systems: Logic algebra is applied in designing automated
systems, including robotics and industrial control systems, to model and
control system behaviour.
➢ Logic algebra provides a systematic and mathematical foundation for
understanding and manipulating binary variables and logical operations,
forming a cornerstone in the fields of digital design, computer science,
and automation.
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 1.2 Logic circuits

➢ Logic circuits are electronic circuits that perform logical operations based on
Boolean algebra.
➢ These circuits use digital signals (binary, consisting of 0s and 1s) to process and
manipulate information.
➢ Logic circuits are the building blocks of digital systems, such as computers,
microcontrollers, and other electronic devices, enabling them to perform complex
tasks through the combination of simple logic gates.
➢ Key Components of Logic Circuits:
1. Logic Gates: Logic gates are the fundamental building blocks of logic circuits.
They perform basic logical operations (AND, OR, NOT) on binary inputs to produce a
binary output.
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 Logic circuits…

➢ Common types of logic gates include:

• AND Gate:
• Output is 1 only if both inputs are 1.
• Symbol: A⋅B or AB
• OR Gate:
• Output is 1 if at least one input is 1.
• Symbol: A+B or A∪B
• NOT Gate:
• Output is the inverse of the input.
• Symbol: ‾A or ′A′
• Other gates, such as NAND, NOR, and XOR, are derived from combinations of these basic
gates.
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 Logic circuits…

2. Flip-Flops: Flip-flops are memory elements that store binary information.

➢ They are crucial for sequential logic circuits, allowing the storage of data and the
creation of memory elements in electronic systems.
3. Registers: Registers are collections of flip-flops used for temporary data storage.
➢ They are vital for tasks like data transfer, arithmetic operations, and control in
digital systems.
4. Multiplexers and Demultiplexers: Multiplexers select one of several input data lines
and direct it to a single output line.
➢ Demultiplexers perform the reverse operation, directing one input to several output
lines.
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 Logic circuits…

5. Arithmetic Logic Units (ALUs): ALUs perform arithmetic and logic

operations on binary numbers.
➢ They are integral components of processors and microcontrollers,
handling tasks like addition, subtraction, AND, OR, and other
operations.
6. Decoder and Encoder: Decoders convert binary information from one
code to another, while encoders perform the opposite task.
➢ They are essential for tasks such as data compression and
decompression.
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 Logic circuits…

Types of Logic Circuits:

1. Combinational Logic Circuits: These circuits produce an output based
solely on the current input values.
➢ The output is determined by the combination of logic gates and does
not depend on the circuit's previous state.
2. Sequential Logic Circuits: Sequential logic circuits include memory
elements, such as flip-flops, and the output depends on both the current
input values and the circuit's previous state. These circuits have a notion
of time and memory.
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 Logic circuits…

3. Digital Signal Processors (DSPs): DSPs are specialized processors

designed for digital signal processing tasks, such as audio and image
processing.
➢They often incorporate specialized logic circuits for efficient
computation.
4. Microprocessors and Microcontrollers: These are central processing
units (CPUs) that form the core of computers and embedded systems.
➢ They include extensive logic circuitry to execute instructions, manage
memory, and control peripherals.
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 Logic circuits…
Applications of Logic Circuits:
1. Computer Processors: Logic circuits are the foundation of central
processing units (CPUs) in computers, executing instructions and performing
arithmetic and logic operations.
2. Memory Systems: Flip-flops and registers in logic circuits form the basis of
memory systems in computers and other digital devices.
3. Control Systems: Logic circuits are used in control systems to manage and
coordinate the operation of various components in industrial, automotive, and
robotic applications.
4. Communication Systems: Logic circuits are employed in communication
systems for tasks such as signal modulation, demodulation, and error
detection and correction.
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 Logic circuits…
5. Consumer Electronics: Devices like smartphones, TVs, and digital cameras utilize
logic circuits for processing and controlling various functions.
6. Automotive Electronics: Logic circuits play a crucial role in automotive control
systems, managing functions like engine control, airbag deployment, and
entertainment systems.
7. Embedded Systems: In embedded systems, logic circuits control and coordinate
various functions, making them integral to devices such as IoT devices, medical
instruments, and industrial controllers.
➢ Logic circuits are essential components in the world of digital electronics, enabling
the creation of sophisticated and intelligent systems by combining simple logical
operations.
➢They form the backbone of digital technology, contributing to the functionality and
efficiency of a wide range of electronic devices
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 1.3 Logic devices such as counters, timers
and finite state machines
➢They are crucial components in digital systems and electronic circuits.
➢They serve specific functions and play essential roles in controlling and sequencing
operations.
➢Let's explore each of these logic devices:
1. Counters: Counters are sequential logic circuits that count in a prescribed sequence. They
can count up, down, or in a more complex pattern based on the application requirements.
➢Types of Counters:
• Binary Counters: Count in binary sequence (000, 001, 010, ...).
• Decade Counters: Count in decimal sequence (0, 1, 2, ..., 9).
• Up Counters: Count upwards.
• Down Counters: Count downwards.
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 Logic devices …
• Synchronous Counters: The state of each flip-flop is updated
simultaneously.
• Asynchronous Counters: The state of each flip-flop is updated
sequentially.
➢Applications of Counters:
• Digital Clocks: Counters are used to keep track of time in digital clocks.
• Frequency Dividers: Dividing the frequency of a signal.
• Event Counters: Counting occurrences of events in industrial automation.
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 Logic devices …
2. Timers: Timers are devices that measure the duration of time intervals. They
can be used for precise time control and scheduling of events.
➢Types of Timers:
• Monostable Multivibrators: Output stays high for a fixed duration after
triggering.
• Astable Multivibrators: Produce a continuous square wave output.
• Digital Timers: Implemented using digital logic circuits for more accurate
timing.
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 Logic devices …
➢ Applications of timers:
• Industrial Automation: Timers control processes and events in
manufacturing.
• Microcontroller-based Systems: Timers are often integrated into
microcontrollers for various timing functions.
• Automotive Systems: Used in vehicle control systems for functions like
fuel injection timing.

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 Logic devices …
3. Finite State Machines (FSMs): Finite State Machines model the behaviour of
systems that can exist in a finite number of states. They transition between states
based on inputs and current states.
➢ Types of FSMs:
• Moore Machines: The output depends only on the current state.
• Mealy Machines: The output depends on both the current state and inputs.
➢ Applications:
• Digital Circuit Design: FSMs are used to design control units for processors.
• Communication Protocols: FSMs model the behaviour of communication protocols.
• Traffic Light Controllers: FSMs control the sequence of traffic lights in an
intersection.
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 Logic devices …
➢Key Components of FSMs:
• States: Represent different modes or conditions.
• Transitions: Define conditions triggering state changes.
• Inputs: External signals influencing state transitions.
• Outputs: Actions or signals produced by the FSM in different states.
➢ Common Characteristics of These Devices:
• Sequential Logic: They rely on sequential logic circuits, typically flip-flops, to store and
update information.
• Digital Control: All these devices are designed to operate in a digital environment using
binary signals (0s and 1s).
• Timing and Sequencing: They involve precise timing and sequencing of events, making
them crucial in digital systems.
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 Logic devices …

➢Counters, timers, and finite state machines are integral components in

digital systems, providing essential control and sequencing functions.
➢ They find applications in diverse areas, from simple digital clocks to
complex control systems in industrial automation

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 a pter
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End !!!
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