Construction insight: Can a D flip-flop be formed by simply inserting an inverter between the SET input and the clock terminal? Evaluate this claim relative to standard D flip-flop implementations from latches or J–K equivalents.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Understanding how different flip-flops relate helps when converting between primitives or when a required type is unavailable. A D flip-flop can be constructed from lower-level elements, but the relationships must preserve synchronous behavior and proper control of set/reset paths.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • SET and CLEAR are asynchronous override inputs on many flip-flops.
  • The clock input governs synchronous sampling of the data path.
  • The claim suggests adding an inverter between SET and CLOCK to create a D flip-flop.


Concept / Approach:
A valid construction routes combinational logic so that the synchronous data path implements Q(next) = D at the active clock edge. Typical conversions include: building a D flip-flop from a pair of level-sensitive D latches (master–slave) or from a J–K by wiring J = D and K = D’ (complement). Inserting an inverter between SET and CLOCK does not create a proper synchronous data path; it misuses an asynchronous control and risks forcing states independent of clocking, violating setup/hold timing and the intended function.



Step-by-Step Solution:

State valid method: D FF = master latch + slave latch with opposite level enables.Alternative: From J–K, wire J = D and K = D’ to realize D behavior on the clock edge.Evaluate the claim: SET is asynchronous; inverting it into CLOCK path does not synthesize D behavior.Conclude: the statement is incorrect.


Verification / Alternative check:

Simulate timing: any change on SET immediately overrides Q, independent of clock edge; this is not a D flip-flop.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Correct / True only with SR core / Depends on clear: None repair the fundamental misuse of asynchronous controls.


Common Pitfalls:

Confusing asynchronous preset/clear with synchronous data inputs.Ignoring the two-latch (master–slave) structure that enforces edge behavior.


Final Answer:

Incorrect

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