Introduction to Computer Organization

5 Logic Gates

In the previous chapter, you learned about Boolean algebra expressions and how to implement them using logic gates. In this chapter, you’ll learn how to implement logic gates in hardware by using transistors, the solid-state electronic devices used to implement the on/off switches we’ve been discussing throughout this book.

To help you to understand how transistors operate, we’ll start with a simple introduction to electronics. From there, you’ll see how transistors can be connected in pairs to switch faster and use less electrical power. We’ll end the chapter with some practical considerations regarding the use of transistors ...