Chapter 1

Understanding Digital Electronics

IN THIS CHAPTER

check Looking at the difference between analog and digital circuits

check Exploring binary codes

check Learning about logical operators

check Building some very simple logic circuits with switches and lamps

Welcome to the world of digital electronics. Beginning with this chapter, you start to learn about the fundamental building-block circuits that you’ll ultimately use to create computers and other advanced electronic devices.

Digital electronics is a complex, almost-overwhelming topic, but the building blocks are actually quite simple. In this chapter, you learn some basic principles, such as how to tell the difference between analog and digital circuits, how the binary system works, and how basic logic operations work. In the remaining chapters in this part, you build on that knowledge as you explore the amazing world of digital electronics.

Hang on!

Distinguishing Analog and Digital Electronics

All electronics can be divided into two broad categories: analog and digital.

Analog refers to circuits in which quantities such as voltage or current ...

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