Digital Structures

This course covers the fundamental building blocks of modern digital systems, from basic logic operations to complex programmable circuits.

• Number systems and codes: binary, octal, and hexadecimal systems, data encoding, error detection and correction.
• Boolean algebra: logic variables, operations, axioms and theorems, proof methods.
• Boolean functions and logic gates: function representations, simplification using Karnaugh maps, functionally complete sets, timing hazards, CMOS technology.
• Combinational logic circuits: encoders, decoders, multiplexers, demultiplexers, comparators, adders, multipliers, arithmetic-logic units (ALU).
• Computer-aided digital design: minimizers, schematic editors, circuit simulators, hardware description languages (HDL), PCB layout designers.
• Sequential logic circuits: latches, flip-flops, truth and excitation tables, registers, counters, shift registers, state diagrams, analysis and synthesis.
• Three-state buffers and buses: serial and parallel buses, Schmitt-trigger buffers.
• Programmable logic circuits: ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, Flash, PLA, PAL, GAL, SRAM, DRAM, CPLD, FPGA. Circuit implementation using hardware description languages.

In laboratory exercises, students independently design, implement, and test digital circuits on printed circuit boards and with FPGA programmable devices.

To gain theoretical understanding of logical decision-making and storage in digital structures and to acquire practical knowledge for designing, implementing, and testing digital circuits.

After successful completion, students will be able to:

• describe and explain the operation of basic combinational and sequential digital structures
• describe circuit behaviour using hardware description languages
• identify and correct faults in digital circuits
• select the optimal implementation of a digital structure based on requirements for size, cost, and reliability
• design combinational and sequential circuits using abstract and structural synthesis methods
• use modern computer-aided tools for simulation and optimization
• build and test a digital circuit prototype as a printed circuit board