Modulus understanding — output repetition rate For a modulus-8 (MOD-8) counter, the final output pattern repeats how often relative to the input clock pulses?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 8 clock pulses

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The modulus (MOD) of a counter indicates how many unique states it cycles through before repeating. Understanding this lets you predict output repetition and design timing divisions without simulating or breadboarding every case.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • A binary counter with modulus 8.
  • States advance by one on each active clock edge.
  • We consider the full cycle of the counter outputs.


Concept / Approach:
A MOD-N counter has N distinct states. Thus, one full cycle of the count requires N clock pulses. When the Nth pulse occurs, the counter returns to the initial state and the output sequence repeats.


Step-by-Step Solution:

MOD-8 ⇒ 8 unique states.One state is produced per clock pulse.Therefore, repetition (final output occurs) once every 8 clock pulses.


Verification / Alternative check:
Enumerate the binary sequence 000 → 001 → 010 → 011 → 100 → 101 → 110 → 111 → back to 000. Count the transitions: eight pulses are consumed to return to the start.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 16/24/32 pulses: correspond to larger moduli that do not apply.
  • 4 pulses: would be MOD-4 behavior, not MOD-8.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing edge counts with state counts; each new state needs one clock.


Final Answer:
8 clock pulses

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