GAL16V8 OLMC flip-flop behavior: In a GAL16V8 device, the D flip-flops contained inside the Output Logic Macrocell (OLMC) provide which combination of control features?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: asynchronous reset, synchronous preset

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Small Programmable Logic Devices (SPLDs) like the GAL16V8 use Output Logic Macrocells (OLMCs) that can be configured as registered (using an internal D flip-flop) or combinational. Understanding which control signals are asynchronous versus synchronous helps designers implement reliable resets and deterministic state entry on the first active clock.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The GAL16V8 OLMC includes a D flip-flop when configured in registered mode.
  • Typical SPLD macrocells offer an asynchronous reset/clear control and a separate synchronous control (often preset/set) realized via product terms.
  • Exact naming may vary (reset vs. clear; preset vs. set), but the primary distinction is asynchronous versus synchronous assertion.


Concept / Approach:
Asynchronous controls take effect immediately, independent of the clock, and are used for global or power-up resets. Synchronous controls take effect on the active clock edge, fitting cleanly into pipelined logic. The GAL16V8 macrocell supports this conventional pairing: an asynchronous reset (clear) capability and a synchronous preset implemented via product terms.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify macrocell mode: registered vs. combinational.For registered mode, note the DFF with asynchronous reset path.Recognize that a preset function can be synthesized as a synchronous product-term path to the D input logic.Conclude the combination: asynchronous reset + synchronous preset.


Verification / Alternative check:
Review vendor application notes and macrocell diagrams that show an async reset/clear pin or product term, along with product-term-based synchronous controls tied to the DFF’s data path.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

asynchronous preset, synchronous reset: Uncommon pairing for GAL16V8 macrocells.asynchronous clear, synchronous set / asynchronous set, synchronous clear: Mismatch the standard reset/preset pairing typically provided.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing naming—clear vs. reset and set vs. preset; assuming both preset and clear are simultaneously asynchronous in all modes.


Final Answer:
asynchronous reset, synchronous preset

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