Brief Switch Based NAND Logic Gate Circuit

NAND logic gates only have a low output if all inputs are high. One or more low inputs results in a high output.

Logic gate kit. Affiliate link ad.

Switch based logic gates generally consider a high signal as something that is on.  If a switch is closed, or an LED is emitting light, then they are considered as being on.

Whereas a low signal is considered as something that is off. If a switch is open, or an LED is not emitting light, then they are considered as being off.

• NAND Gate output is only low if both inputs are high, or if all switches are closed.
• Any low input results in a high output.
• When the NAND gate has 2 inputs, Then the following 4 options are possible.
  1. Both inputs can be low: Output high.
  2. Input A can be low while input B is high: Output high.
  3. Input A can be high while input B is low: Output high.
  4. And finally, both inputs A and B can be high: Output low.

Keep in mind that mechanical switch based logic gate circuits aren’t usually practical for real life circuits. They are mostly just used to help demonstrate what semiconductor based logic gate circuits are doing.

What determines High and Low states is not set in stone. The rules vary based on the needs of a particular circuit, but the rules listed above are commonly used.

Video:

Related pages:

• Brief NAND Logic Gate Circuit made with NPN Bipolar Junction Transistors BJTs
• Brief 7400 Quad 2 Input NAND Gate Integrated Circuit IC Demonstration 74HC00
• Brief AND Gate Made From 7400 74HC00 NAND Universal Logic
• Set Reset RS Latch Flip Flop made from two NAND Logic Gates Integrated Circuit IC

To support this site, check out the following links:

Art of electronics is easily my favorite learning electronics book. It helps to already be familiar with basic electronics while studying it. It inspires many of my demonstration circuits. An affiliate link ad that supports this site.

• Become a Patron!
• Check out my YouTube videos! https://www.youtube.com/c/Electronzap/videos
• Products I used in my videos or otherwise think look like a good buy. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. https://www.amazon.com/shop/electronzapdotcom

Home page

• Information on this site is not guaranteed to be accurate. Always consult the manufacturer info/datasheet of parts you use. Research the proper safety precautions for everything you do.
• Electronzap is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.