Sure! Let's go through the reasoning step-by-step to understand the answer:
1. Understanding a Decoder in Electronics:
- A decoder is a digital circuit that takes an input binary code and activates a specific output line based on that code.
- It typically has 'n' input lines and [tex]\(2^n\)[/tex] output lines.
2. Options Explained:
- Option a: A sum and a carry
- Typically, sums and carries are related to adders or arithmetic circuits, not decoders.
- Option b: A unique pattern
- A decoder indeed activates a unique output pattern corresponding to the input binary value.
- Option c: An error signal
- Error signals are usually associated with error detection and correction circuits, not decoders.
- Option d: A clock signal
- Decoders are not responsible for generating clock signals; clocks are usually managed by timing circuits.
3. Determining the Correct Option:
- The primary function of a decoder is to translate an input binary code into a unique output line or pattern.
- Thus, the correct answer must relate to the decoder's function of producing a specific output corresponding to the input.
Therefore, the correct option is:
- Option b: A unique pattern
A decoder examines the number coming in from its inputs and activates a unique pattern on its outputs.
