Bebop to the Boolean Boogie, 3rd Edition

Chapter 16. Programmable ICs

A simple programmable function

Before we move on to consider some actual devices, let’s first set the scene with some fundamental concepts. As a basis for these discussions, let's start by considering a very simple programmable function with two inputs called a and b, and a single output called y (Figure 16.1).

Figure 16.1. A simple programmable function.

The inverting (NOT) gates associated with the inputs mean that each input is available in both its true (unmodified) and complemented (inverted) form. Observe the locations of the “potential links.” In the absence of any of these links, all of the inputs to the ...