Relationship between PAL and GAL — what is a GAL essentially? Choose the statement that best describes what a GAL device is, relative to a traditional PAL.

Introduction / Context:
PALs (Programmable Array Logic) were historically one-time programmable using fuse technology. GALs (Generic Array Logic) were introduced as a drop-in, electrically erasable alternative, allowing designers to iterate on designs without replacing devices, thereby reducing cost and development time.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• PAL: OTP (one-time programmable) fuse-based technology in many classic parts.
• GAL: EEPROM/flash-based reprogrammable technology with PAL-compatible pinouts.
• Both are product-term devices using AND/OR macrocells.

Concept / Approach:
The architectural similarity between PALs and GALs is strong—both implement sum-of-products logic. The key distinction is reprogrammability: GALs can be erased and reprogrammed many times. Therefore, the most accurate short description of a GAL is “a reprogrammable PAL.”

Step-by-Step Clarification:

Verification / Alternative check:
Family names like GAL16V8 and GAL22V10 mirror PAL part codes (16V8, 22V10) and vendor literature promotes them as reprogrammable replacements, confirming the relationship.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Non-reprogrammable/manufacturer-programmed: describes OTP parts, not GALs.
• “Very large PAL”: GALs match similar densities; “very large” is misleading.
• “Only tri-state buffers”: incorrect; macrocells and product terms are present.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming GALs imply higher logic capacity; the main differentiation is erasability and flexibility.

Final Answer:
reprogrammable PAL