DE UNIT 4 Key Terms

DE

Control Input

A state machine input that directs the operation of the machine from state to state.

State Machines

A synchronous sequential circuit, consisting of a sequential logic section and a combinational logic section, whose outputs and internal flip-flops progress through a predictable sequence of states in responds to a clock and other input signals.

Mealy Machine

A state machine whose output is determined by both the sequential logic and the combinational logic of the machine.

State Table

A table whose entries represent the sequence of individual FF states (i.e., 0 or 1) for a sequential binary circuit.

State Transition Diagram

A graphic representation of the operation of a sequential binary circuit, showing the sequence of individual FF states and conditions needed for transitions from one state to the next.

State Variables

The variables held in the flip-flops of a state machine that determine its present state.

Accelerometer

An electromechanical device that will measure acceleration forces. These forces may be static, like the constant force of gravity pulling at your feet, or they could be dynamic.

Microprocessor

An IC which has only the Central Processing Unit inside them. They only have processing powers.

Application Processors

A microprocessor optimized for smart phone / hand held device use.

Constants

A piece of data that does not change.

Moore Machine

A state machine whose output is determined only by the sequential logic of the machine.

Comments

Detailed descriptions not executed.

Functions

A named piece of code that can be used from elsewhere in the code.

Servo

A rotary actuator that allows for precise control of angular position, velocity and acceleration. It consists of a motor coupled to a sensor for position feedback.

Microcomputer

A small, relatively inexpensive computer with a microprocessor as its central processing unit.

Bubble

A circle in a state diagram containing the state name and values of the state variables.

Memory

The physical devices used to store programs or data (e.g.) on a temporary or permanent basis for use in a computer or other digital electronic device.

Program

Contains: variables, functions, structures, and comments.

Conditional Transition

A transition between states of a state machine that occurs only under specific conditions of one or more control inputs.

Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)

A technique for getting analog results with digital means. Digital control is used to create a square wave.

Variables

A place for storing a piece of data. It has a type, a name, and a value. They can change.

Microcontroller

A small, low cost computer on a single integrated circuit.

Central Processing Unit

The hardware within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing the basic arithmetical, logical, and input/output operations of the system.