TTL Output Drive — Compare sourcing at HIGH vs. sinking at LOW Evaluate the statement: “The TTL HIGH-level source current is higher than the LOW-level sinking current.” Is it true or false in standard TTL practice?

Introduction / Context:
TTL totem-pole outputs are asymmetric: they typically can sink substantially more current when LOW than they can source when HIGH. Knowing this asymmetry guides correct fan-out calculations and pull-up/pull-down choices.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard TTL logic HIGH source current capability is modest (for example, around –0.4 mA).
• Standard TTL logic LOW sink current capability is much larger (for example, around 16 mA for LS-TTL families).
• Exact numbers vary by subfamily, but the asymmetry persists.

Concept / Approach:
Compare typical IOH (source at HIGH) to IOL (sink at LOW). Since IOH is much smaller in magnitude than IOL, the statement claiming HIGH-level source current is higher is incorrect.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify IOH (small) vs. IOL (large).Evaluate statement: “HIGH-level source current higher than LOW sink” → contradicts specs.Therefore, the statement is False.

Verification / Alternative check:
Check a 74LSxx datasheet: IOH around –0.4 mA; IOL around 8–16 mA. The asymmetry is clear and consistent.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“True” would only apply to a hypothetical family with symmetric or reversed capabilities, not standard TTL.

Common Pitfalls:
Designers sometimes assume symmetric drive strength; ensure loads are oriented so the logic level that sinks current handles the heavier load when possible.

Final Answer:
False