CS302 Digital Logic Design

CS302: Digital Logic Design

CS302 Digital Logic Design (DLD) is a foundational course that explores the design and implementation of the hardware circuits that are the building blocks of all digital computers. This course bridges the gap between the abstract world of computer science (like programming) and the physical world of electrical engineering. You will learn how to build complex computational systems, like a calculator or a simple processor, from the ground up using basic logic gates.

The course begins with the fundamentals of binary numbers and Boolean algebra, the mathematical system for manipulating 1s and 0s. You will then learn about basic logic gates (AND, OR, NOT) and how to combine them to create combinational circuits—circuits whose output is purely a function of their current inputs. Later, the course introduces the concept of state and memory, leading to the design of sequential circuits—circuits whose output depends on both current inputs and past history.

Key Topics Covered:

• Number Systems and Boolean Algebra: Mastering binary, octal, and hexadecimal number systems. Using the laws and theorems of Boolean algebra to simplify logical expressions.
• Logic Gates: Understanding the function of basic gates (AND, OR, NOT, XOR, NAND, NOR) and their truth tables.
• Combinational Logic Design: Designing circuits that perform a specific function without memory. This includes:
  • Karnaugh Maps (K-Maps): A graphical technique for simplifying Boolean expressions.
  • Standard Components: Designing and using common circuits like adders, subtractors, comparators, decoders, encoders, and multiplexers (MUX).
• Sequential Logic Design: Designing circuits that have memory and store a "state". This includes:
  • Latches and Flip-Flops: The fundamental building blocks of memory (e.g., SR Latch, D Flip-Flop, JK Flip-Flop).
  • Counters: Circuits that count in a predetermined sequence (e.g., synchronous and asynchronous counters).
  • Shift Registers: Circuits used for storing and shifting data.
• State Machines: Designing Finite State Machines (FSMs) to control the behavior of complex sequential systems.
• Memory Architecture: A basic understanding of how memory components like RAM and ROM are constructed.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand and apply the principles of Boolean algebra and number systems.
2. Design and analyze combinational logic circuits using logic gates and K-Maps.
3. Design and analyze sequential logic circuits using flip-flops, counters, and registers.
4. Develop finite state machines to model and implement complex digital behavior.
5. Gain hands-on experience in designing and simulating digital circuits.

CS302 provides the essential hardware foundation for understanding computer architecture, microprocessors, and embedded systems. It is a critical course for anyone interested in how computers *physically* work.