Power-up behavior of flip-flops: When power is first applied to a sequential circuit, a flip-flop’s initial state is not guaranteed unless specific initialization (reset or preset) circuitry is provided. Assess the statement: “A flip-flop’s normal starting state is always the SET state.”

Introduction / Context:
Real-world sequential circuits must consider power-up behavior. Without deterministic initialization, storage elements can power up in either state due to device mismatch, leakage, and noise, leading to unpredictable system behavior.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Generic flip-flops (D, JK, T) without guaranteed power-on reset.
• No explicit reset (CLR) or preset (PRE) asserted at power-up.
• Normal device variations and metastability possibilities.

Concept / Approach:
Absent a designed initialization path, startup state is indeterminate. Designers add RC reset networks, dedicated POR (power-on reset) ICs, or assert asynchronous CLR/PRE to force known states. Therefore, claiming the state is “always SET” is incorrect; it may be set, reset, or metastable before settling.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Examine datasheets: many specify “undefined at power-up” and recommend external reset. Simulation with uninitialized nodes also shows indeterminate initial state until forced.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Correct: Contradicted by standard initialization practices.
• True only for JK flip-flops / Schmitt triggers: Device type or input conditioning does not guarantee SET on power-up.
• Depends solely on load capacitance: Capacitance influences behavior but does not ensure a fixed starting state.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming symmetric devices pick a consistent state; forgetting POR requirements; relying on simulation defaults that silently initialize to zeros or ones.

Final Answer:
Incorrect