Identifying the major drawback of a basic S-R latch: Among the listed characteristics, which one is the well-known limitation that makes the raw S-R latch less convenient than more advanced primitives such as J-K or D devices?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: invalid condition

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The S-R latch is widely taught because it illustrates fundamental bistable feedback. However, one of its input combinations leads to an undefined or forbidden state, and this drawback motivates the use of J-K and D-type primitives in many designs.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We consider the classic S-R latch using NOR (active-HIGH) or NAND (active-LOW) gating.
  • Outputs are Q and Q’ with complementary feedback.
  • We assess which listed characteristic is the key limitation in practical use.


Concept / Approach:
For a NOR-based S-R latch, S=1 and R=1 is invalid since both outputs are forced LOW before returning to indeterminate complements. For a NAND-based latch, S̅=0 and R̅=0 is the forbidden case. This invalid/undefined condition complicates input conditioning and can cause racing or metastability if not carefully avoided.



Step-by-Step Solution:

List behaviors: set, reset, hold, and forbidden.Identify the problematic combination depending on gate type.Conclude that the “invalid condition” is the main drawback.


Verification / Alternative check:

Compare with J-K: the same corner is defined as toggle, eliminating the invalid state.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

complexity: S-R is actually simpler than J-K or D.slow speed: Speed depends on technology; not the defining drawback.latch mode: Being a latch is not inherently a drawback; it is a feature (level sensitivity).


Common Pitfalls:

Mixing NOR and NAND conventions and forgetting which combination is forbidden.Assuming invalid state is harmless; it can produce unpredictable results.


Final Answer:

invalid condition

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