Recirculating register — definition by connection Which description correctly defines a recirculating register?

Introduction / Context:
A recirculating (or circulating) register feeds its serial output back to its serial input so that stored data shifts around in a loop. This is useful for repeated pattern generation and simple delay lines.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Register supports serial in and serial out.
• We are seeking the wiring characteristic that makes it recirculate.

Concept / Approach:

Connecting the serial output back to the serial input closes the loop. Each clock shifts the pattern by one position while preserving the sequence length. Optionally, gating or loading logic can inject new data or reset the pattern.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Oscilloscope observation would show the same pattern rotating through Q outputs. This is analogous to a ring counter when the pattern is one-hot.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• All Qs tied together: causes contention and invalid logic levels.
• “A register that can be used over again” is vague and not a defining connection.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing recirculating registers with Johnson or ring counters; those are special cases depending on whether feedback is inverted and what initial pattern is used.

Final Answer:

serial out connected to serial in