Definition

1. Noun:
   • A logic gate circuit in computing: An "or circuit" is a fundamental digital logic gate that produces a high output (fires) if at least one of its multiple inputs receives a high signal. It implements the logical disjunction (OR operation).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The processor's design requires an or circuit to combine the signals from these two sensors.
  • If either input A or input B is active, the or circuit will output a logical '1'.

Advanced Usage

• In Boolean algebra, the function of an or circuit is represented as , meaning the output Q is true if A is true OR B is true.
• or circuits are basic building blocks in arithmetic logic units (ALUs) and memory decoders within a computer's central processing unit (CPU).

Variants and Related Words

• OR gate: A more common synonym for "or circuit."
• Logic gate: The general category of circuits, including AND, NOT, NAND, NOR, and XOR gates, to which the or circuit belongs.
• Disjunction: The logical operation performed by an or circuit.

Synonyms

• OR gate
• Logical OR gate

Related Phrases

• Inclusive OR: This specifies that the or circuit fires if inputs are high, distinguishing it from an "exclusive OR" (XOR) circuit, which fires only if input is high.

Noun

1. a gate circuit in a computer that fires when any of its inputs fire