2-28
Q30.
Q31.
Q32.
BOOLEAN ALGEBRA
Boolean logic, or Boolean algebra as it is called today, was developed by an English mathematician,
George Boole, in the 19th century. He based his concepts on the assumption that most quantities have two
possible conditions TRUE and FALSE. This is the same theory you were introduced to at the
beginning of this chapter.
Throughout our discussions of fundamental logic gates, we have mentioned Boolean expressions. A
Boolean expression is nothing more than a description of the input conditions necessary to get the desired
output. These expressions are based on Boole’s laws and theorems.
PURPOSE
Boolean algebra is used primarily by design engineers. Using this system, they are able to arrange
logic gates to accomplish desired tasks. Boolean algebra also enables the engineers to achieve the desired
output by using the fewest number of logic gates. Since space, weight, and cost are important factors in
the design of equipment, you would usually want to use as few parts as possible.
