In digital logic level specifications, the voltage region between VL(max) (maximum recognized LOW) and VH(min) (minimum recognized HIGH) is considered:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: unacceptable

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Digital input thresholds specify safe voltage ranges that will be reliably interpreted as logic LOW or logic HIGH. Values that fall into the gap between those ranges create ambiguity, risking metastability or misinterpretation by logic gates and receivers.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • VL(max): highest voltage guaranteed to be read as a logic LOW.
  • VH(min): lowest voltage guaranteed to be read as a logic HIGH.
  • Any voltage strictly between VL(max) and VH(min) does not meet either guarantee.


Concept / Approach:
The undefined region is intentionally reserved to provide noise margins. Designers should ensure signals transition quickly through this zone and avoid lingering, which can lead to oscillation, increased current draw, or incorrect logic levels, especially with slow edges or heavy capacitive loads.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the specified logic thresholds from the device datasheet.Define valid LOW range: V ≤ VL(max); valid HIGH range: V ≥ VH(min).Recognize that the interval VL(max) < V < VH(min) is not guaranteed to be LOW or HIGH.Therefore this region is unacceptable for steady operation.


Verification / Alternative check:
Check datasheets (e.g., TTL, CMOS families). They explicitly label the middle zone as “indeterminate” or “no-man’s land,” reinforcing that logic must not remain there during normal operation.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Unknown: colloquial but not the accepted engineering term; the correct standard interpretation is that it is unacceptable for steady logic levels.
  • Unnecessary: the region is necessary to provide noise margin, not superfluous.
  • Between 2 V and 5 V: gives arbitrary numbers; actual thresholds depend on the specific logic family and supply voltage.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Driving inputs slowly through the zone; use Schmitt-trigger inputs or stronger drivers to avoid chatter.
  • Ignoring ground bounce and supply noise that can push a borderline signal into the unacceptable region.


Final Answer:
unacceptable

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