Bus interfacing – alternative to individual tri-state outputs Another common way to connect multiple devices to a shared data bus is to use a ________.

Introduction / Context:
Shared data buses require controlled bidirectional paths. Besides discrete tri-state drivers, integrated bus transceivers provide direction control and high-impedance states to prevent contention.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Multiple devices share a common data bus.
• Need controlled bidirectional data flow and isolation.

Concept / Approach:
A transceiver integrates transmitter and receiver functions with direction (DIR) and output enable (OE) controls, simplifying bus connections and ensuring safe handover between talkers and listeners.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Popular parts (e.g., 74HC245) are advertised as octal bus transceivers precisely for this role.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• circulating gate: Not a standard bus component.
• bidirectional encoder: Encoders/decoders translate codes; they do not provide controlled high-Z bus driving.
• strobed latch: Provides storage and gating but not robust bidirectional bus driving with direction control.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming any latch or buffer can replace a transceiver on a bidirectional bus.

Final Answer:
transceiver