Introduction / Context:
Many practical applications, such as frequency counters or event counters, need to display results in base-10. Counters that naturally present their state in decimal-oriented code simplify driving seven-segment displays or decimal readouts.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The requirement is to display numeric results in base-10.
- BCD (Binary Coded Decimal) expresses each decimal digit with four binary bits.
- Display drivers and decoders commonly expect BCD inputs.
Concept / Approach:
Although “decade” and “BCD” are closely related (a decade counter has ten states), BCD counters explicitly output in a decimal-digit-friendly format. This makes interfacing to BCD-to-7-segment decoders straightforward, which is why BCD counters are often selected when the output is intended for decimal displays.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify need: base-10 display → prefer BCD-coded outputs.Match device: BCD counters output 0000–1001 for digits 0–9.Simplify hardware: BCD-to-7-segment decoder directly converts to display segments.Therefore, BCD counters are commonly used.
Verification / Alternative check:
Review common parts (e.g., 74xx90/74xx192 families) and application notes; BCD outputs are standard for decimal displays.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Synchronous: Describes timing architecture, not base-10 suitability.Bean: Not a recognized counter type.Decade: Close, but “BCD” better specifies the display-oriented code format expected by decoders.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “decade” (modulus-10) with the code format needed for displays; BCD conveys that format explicitly.
Final Answer:
BCD
Discussion & Comments