Pull-up resistor purpose: In digital logic, a pull-up keeps a normally floating (high-impedance) input at a defined logic level. Which levels correctly describe this behavior?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: HIGH, float

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Floating inputs can wander unpredictably due to leakage and noise. A pull-up resistor biases a high-impedance input to a known logic state when no active driver is present. Understanding this is foundational for reliable digital design.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Input can be undriven (tri-stated, open-collector/drain, or disconnected).
  • Pull-up connects the node to VCC through a resistor.
  • Active devices may still pull the line LOW when needed.


Concept / Approach:
With a pull-up, the node tends to HIGH by default. When an open-collector/open-drain output sinks current, the same node transitions to LOW. The resistor sets a bias current and limits short-circuit power when pulled LOW.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Without a driver, an input is floating and undefined.2) Adding a resistor to VCC establishes a default logic HIGH.3) An active device can override by pulling the line to ground.4) Proper value selection balances noise immunity and current draw.


Verification / Alternative check:
Measure the node with no driver: it reads near VCC and is stable. When a sink turns on, it reads near 0 V.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • LOW, float: Describes pull-down behavior, not pull-up.
  • clock, float: A clock is a signal type, not a level.
  • pulsed, float: Pulse describes timing, not default logic state.


Common Pitfalls:
Using too strong (low-ohm) pull-ups causing high power dissipation, or too weak (high-ohm) values causing slow edges and susceptibility to noise.


Final Answer:
HIGH, float

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