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PUBLISHED ON: JUNE 13, 2022

Difference Between Latch and Flip Flop

Introduction

Both the latch and the flip-flop are considered essential components of an electrical system. When a latch is activated, the key distinction between it and a flip flop is that a latch changes its output on a regular basis in response to changes in the applied input signal. In contrast to a flip flop, the output varies with the input and the clock signal. This indicates that the clock signal serves as a control signal, causing the output to alter in response to the modified input.

Digital integrated circuits such as logic circuits, memory chips, and microprocessors are used to store and send data in the form of bits. This is why they are referred to be the "basic building blocks of electronic systems."

Latch

Latches are sequential logic circuits made up of logic gates that are used to store binary data. These are level triggered, thus they only work when they are turned on. Because they have two stable states, they are also known as bistable multivibrators.

It works in such a manner that while the enable pin is active, the output changes every time the input changes. This implies that if the input changes, the information saved changes as well.

Flip flop

Because its current output value is dependent on current and previous input and output, flip flops are also classified as sequential logic circuits. In the case of flip flops, however, clock signalling is critical since flip flops are required to function with a clock.

So, in the instance of the flip flop, when the input is changed from one value to another, the stored bit changes only when the clock signal is changed from low to high or high to low.

Comparison Table Between Latch and Flip Flop

Latch

Flip-Flop

  • A latch operates in an asynchronous way, which implies that the output generated by the latch is dependent on the input. The majority of personal computers are now synchronous. A global CLK signal may affect successive circuits in a PC at the same time.
  • A NOR gate or a NAND gate may be used to make an FF (flip-flop). As a result, an FF has two inputs, two outputs, a set, and a reset. SR-FF is the term given to this kind of FF. These are mostly used to hold binary information. When compared to a latch, an FF will have an additional CLK signal to make it function in a different manner.
  • There is no clock signal in a latch.
  • A clock signal is contained in a flip-flop.
  • Different varieties of latches exist, including D-type (data/delay), SR-type (set-reset), T-type (toggle), and JK-type.
  • Different varieties of FFs exist, including D-type (data/delay), SR-type (set-reset), T-type (toggle), and JK-type.
  • A latch is a sort of bi-stable multivibrator used to store one bit of data in electrical devices. It has two stable states.
  • Flip-flops are now made of simple transparent storage parts and somewhat more advanced nontransparent gadgets.
  • Latche's structure is made up of logic gates.
  • Latches are added to FFs by adding an additional clock signal.
  • A latch is sensitive to the input switch and capable of conveying information for as long as the switch is turned on.
  • The FF is likewise sensitive to the CLK signal; therefore, the o/p will not change until the input CLK signal is changed.
  • Latches are quite quick
  • FFs (Flip-Flops) are very sluggish.

Conclusion

Thus, we may infer that flip-flops are preferable than latches because flip-flops are meant to deliver timely output, while latches are designed to offer continuous output based on changes in input once activated.



About the author:
Adarsh Kumar Singh is a technology writer with a passion for coding and programming. With years of experience in the technical field, he has established a reputation as a knowledgeable and insightful writer on a range of technical topics.