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.”

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


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:

List valid BCD states: 0000 through 1001.Identify terminal count: 1001 (9), not 1010 (10).Determine rollover action: next state after 1001 is 0000.Therefore the statement claiming 1010 as terminal count is incorrect.


Verification / Alternative check:

Consult truth tables for BCD counters: detection of 1010 triggers reset to 0000.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Correct / down-counters / with BCD correction: These do not change the definition of legal BCD states; 1010 is not a valid displayed state.


Common Pitfalls:

Equating “binary 10” with “decimal 10” inside a BCD decade sequence.Misreading terminal count as the value that causes reset rather than the last valid state.


Final Answer:

Incorrect

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