Meaning of counter modulus (MOD): In counter terminology, “modulus” refers to which property of the counting sequence?

Introduction / Context:
Counters are frequently described by their modulus, often written as MOD-N. Understanding what “modulus” means is fundamental for designing dividers, timing chains, and display drivers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Counter progresses through a defined sequence of states.
• After a fixed number of unique states, it returns to the starting state.
• MOD denotes the count of unique states in one full cycle.

Concept / Approach:
The modulus is the sequence length. A binary counter with N flip-flops has up to 2^N states, so its modulus is 2^N if all states are used. Custom modulo counters reset early to achieve a smaller modulus (for example, MOD-10 for decade/BCD counting). This number also represents the division ratio when using a counter as a frequency divider.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Analyze a counter truth table or simulation: counting from 0 up to N-1 and then resetting confirms the modulus as N. Datasheets specify MOD-N to indicate sequence length and division factor.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing modulus with maximum binary value only; overlooking that unused or skipped states also define the effective modulus.

Final Answer:
The maximum number of states in the counter sequence (MOD-N)