Modular single-stage universal logic gate

Abstract

First and second generation universal logic gate (ULG):IC's are described. The ULG comprises one-stage arrays of two identical cascade circuits. These ULG's are shown to realize all logic functions of four (and fewer) input variables in approximately the same propagation delay as a single ECL current switch emitter follower (CSEF) gate fabricated with the same processing technology. Substantial power and power-delay product advantages relative to CSEF arrays are demonstrated at comparable silicon area for realization of all four-input functions. The ULG was developed for implementing logic arrays with a minimum number of gating stages.