What is a Digital Comparator?

What is a Digital Comparator?

Digital Comparator Definition

A digital comparator is defined as a circuit that compares two binary numbers and indicates whether one is greater, equal, or smaller than the other.

Single-Bit Digital Comparator

Compares two single-bit binary numbers and provides outputs for greater, equal, and smaller conditions.

Multi-Bit Digital Comparator

Extends comparison to multi-bit binary numbers, often using a 4-bit comparator as a basic building block.

Working Principle

The comparator evaluates each bit, starting from the most significant, to determine the output condition. The following examples can be explained：

G = 1 (logically 1) when A > B.

B = 1 (logically 1) when A = B.

And

L = 1 (logically 1) when A < B.

IC 7485

A 4-bit digital comparator IC that can be cascaded for comparing larger binary numbers, with specific input and output terminals for seamless integration.