Three-state (tri-state) buffers support bus sharing by offering a third output condition beyond logic HIGH and logic LOW. What are the three possible output conditions of a three-state buffer?

Introduction / Context:
When multiple devices must share a common signal line (data bus), direct connection of outputs can cause contention unless inactive devices present a high-impedance state. Three-state buffers solve this by providing a third output condition that effectively disconnects the driver from the bus, allowing safe multiplexing of outputs.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard digital logic levels: logic HIGH (1) and logic LOW (0).
• An enable pin controls whether the buffer drives the line or goes high-impedance (Hi-Z).
• Terminology may use words (HIGH/LOW/float) or symbols (1/0/Hi-Z) interchangeably.

Concept / Approach:
The three states are: logic HIGH, logic LOW, and high-impedance (Hi-Z, sometimes called float). In Hi-Z, the buffer neither sources nor sinks current on the bus; it appears electrically disconnected, enabling another device to drive the line.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) With enable asserted and input = 1 → output drives HIGH.2) With enable asserted and input = 0 → output drives LOW.3) With enable deasserted → output goes to Hi-Z, allowing bus sharing.

Verification / Alternative check:
Data sheets for common bus buffers (e.g., 74HC125/126, 74LVC series) explicitly list these three states in truth tables. The Hi-Z state is indicated when OE (output enable) is inactive.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
HIGH, LOW, negative voltage: three-state buffers do not generate negative rails in standard logic families.LOW, pulsed, latched: mixing behavioral descriptions with logic states; incorrect.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing Hi-Z with logic LOW; Hi-Z is not a logic 0 and should not be pulled as such unless a pull-up/pull-down is provided. Also, enabling two outputs simultaneously on the same bus can still cause contention even with three-state devices; careful control of enables is essential.

Final Answer:
Both of the above describe the same three states