Terminal count of a decade (modulus-10) binary counter — is it 1010 (decimal 10)? Assess the statement: “The terminal count of a typical modulus-10 binary counter is 1010.”

Introduction / Context: A decade (modulus-10) counter cycles through ten states, representing decimal 0 to 9 in binary-coded form. Confusion often arises between the highest valid state and the binary pattern representing decimal 10, which is not part of the decade cycle.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Modulus-10 counter counts 0,1,2,...,9 then rolls to 0.
• Binary for 9 is 1001; binary for 10 is 1010.
• Terminal count typically means the last valid state before rollover.

Concept / Approach: In a typical BCD decade up-counter, the terminal valid state is 1001 (decimal 9). On the next clock, internal logic clears to 0000 (decimal 0). The pattern 1010 (decimal 10) is not a legal displayed state in BCD decade counting; it is either skipped by design or used transiently only for internal detect/reset.

Step-by-Step Solution:

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