Basic logic function: a decoder translates which type of information into which form in digital systems?

Introduction / Context:
Decoders are core building blocks in digital systems. They interpret a compact binary code and assert exactly one of many outputs, enabling address selection, display driving, memory chip enables, and instruction decoding in CPUs.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Inputs are a coded (binary) set of lines, e.g., n bits.
• Outputs are noncoded, typically a 1-of-2^n set of lines.
• Active-HIGH or active-LOW conventions may be used, but the mapping is one-hot.

Concept / Approach:
Decoding expands compact coded information into explicit, mutually exclusive selections. For example, a 3-to-8 decoder uses 3 binary inputs to select 1 of 8 outputs. This “noncoded” set clearly identifies a single choice without further interpretation.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Consider inputs ABC (binary code).The decoder asserts only the output line corresponding to the binary value of ABC.Thus, coded information (ABC) becomes a noncoded, one-hot output vector.

Verification / Alternative check:
Seven-segment display drivers and memory address decoders are everyday examples; each input code turns on exactly one segment pattern or one memory bank enable line (with optional strobing or enable pins).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Noncoded to coded describes an encoder, the inverse device.
• “HIGHs to LOWs” or “LOWs to HIGHs” oversimplify logic level inversion and do not capture decoding’s mapping function.

Common Pitfalls:

• Forgetting enable inputs; without proper enable the decoder may tri-state or force all outputs inactive.
• Not accounting for active-LOW outputs (bubble notation) when wiring external logic.

Final Answer:
coded information into noncoded form