BCD to seven-segment interfacing requirement: In a seven-segment LED display system, a binary-coded decimal (BCD) value must be decoded into segment control signals suitable for driving the decimal digit display. Evaluate the statement.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Correct

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Seven-segment LED displays render decimal digits by illuminating combinations of segments labeled a through g. Microcontrollers and counters often represent digits internally as BCD (binary-coded decimal). To light the correct segments for each digit, the BCD code must be converted to the required seven control lines, typically by a decoder/driver IC or equivalent logic.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Input digits are available in BCD format (0000 to 1001 represent 0–9).
  • The visual output device is a seven-segment LED display (common-anode or common-cathode).
  • Segment lines a–g require appropriate logic levels and current drive.


Concept / Approach:
A BCD-to-seven-segment decoder maps each valid BCD combination to a pattern that turns on the correct segments. Dedicated ICs (for example, classic decoder/drivers) simplify this mapping and may incorporate current limiting or transistor stages. Without decoding, the raw BCD bits do not directly correspond to segment lines; a translation is mandatory to obtain human-readable digits.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Accept a BCD input for a single digit (4 bits: D, C, B, A).Use a decoder truth table to produce seven outputs: a, b, c, d, e, f, g.Account for display type: common-anode requires active-LOW segment drive; common-cathode requires active-HIGH drive.Optionally buffer or limit current to protect LED segments.


Verification / Alternative check:
Wire a known decoder/driver to a seven-segment module and cycle BCD inputs through 0000…1001. Visually confirm that the displayed digits 0–9 are correct. For inputs 1010–1111, either blank or display a custom pattern per design.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Incorrect: BCD cannot directly drive segments without translation logic.
  • Applies only to LCDs: LCDs also need decoding, but the statement is not restricted to LCDs.
  • Only true for common-anode or only at 12 V: The need for decoding is independent of supply level and common configuration; only signal polarity and drivers change.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing common-anode with common-cathode wiring; forgetting current-limiting resistors; not handling invalid BCD codes (10–15) which may cause unexpected patterns.


Final Answer:
Correct

More Questions from Counters

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion