Programmable Logic Array
(PLA): Implementation,
Working, Advantages, and
Applications
Presented by: [Your Name], [Your Roll No.],
Introduction to Programmable Logic Arrays (PLA)
A Programmable Logic Array (PLA) is a type of Programmable Logic Device (PLD) engineered to implement complex combinational logic circuits. It achieves
this through its unique architecture, comprising both programmable AND and OR gate arrays. This inherent flexibility allows a single PLA to realise any
desired logic function.
PLA Architecture: A Detailed Look
Key Components:
Input Lines: These carry the primary variables and their
complements, feeding into the logic array.
AND Array: This section is programmable, allowing the
creation of specific product terms (minterms) from the input
lines.
OR Array: Following the AND array, the OR array is also
programmable, enabling the combination of selected
product terms to form the desired output functions.
Output Lines: These lines carry the final, implemented
logic functions.
Implementation Procedure: Step 1 – Defining Logic
The initial phase of PLA implementation involves translating the
desired behaviour into a format that the PLA can process.
First, prepare the truth table that precisely defines the output for
every possible input combination of the logic function you wish to
implement.
Next, derive the Sum of Products (SOP) expressions for each of
the required outputs from the truth table.
Finally, identify all the unique minterms (product terms) that will
be required to form these SOP expressions within the AND array.
Implementation Procedure: Step 2 –
Programming the Arrays
Program the AND Array Program the OR Array
Configure the connections Set up the connections in the
within the AND array to OR array to sum these product
generate all the necessary terms correctly, thereby
product terms (minterms) producing the final desired
identified in the previous step. outputs.
Test the PLA
Apply various input combinations to the programmed PLA and verify
that the outputs match the truth table and SOP expressions.
How a PLA Functions
Inputs Applied
Digital inputs are fed into the PLA's input lines, propagating
through the device.
AND Array Processing
The programmable AND array creates all the specific minterms
required for the target logic functions.
OR Array Summation
The programmable OR array then combines these minterms,
summing them to generate the desired output logic.
Output Generation
The final output logic functions are produced, often allowing for
the simultaneous implementation of multiple independent
outputs.
Advantages of Using PLAs
PLA vs. ROM
Universal Logic Implementation
PLAs are highly versatile and can implement any combinational logic function, AND Array Programmable Fixed
making them a powerful tool in digital design.
OR Array Programmable Programmable
Flexibility High Lower
Enhanced Flexibility
Resource Use Efficient Potentially
Unlike Read-Only Memory (ROM), PLAs offer greater flexibility as both their AND
wasteful
and OR arrays are programmable, allowing for more efficient resource utilisation.
Reduced Hardware Complexity
By consolidating multiple logic gates into a single chip, PLAs significantly reduce
the overall hardware complexity and board space required for designs.
Support for Multiple Outputs
A key advantage is the ability to generate multiple independent output functions
simultaneously from a single PLA device.
Diverse Applications of PLAs
Decoders & Encoders
Widely used for translating binary codes into unique outputs or
vice versa, such as address decoding in memory systems.
Arithmetic Circuits
Essential for constructing fundamental arithmetic units like
adders, subtractors, and multipliers within digital processors.
Control Logic Systems
Forms the backbone of control units in various digital systems,
managing the flow and execution of operations.
Microprocessor Instruction Decoding
Critical for microprocessors to interpret and execute instruction
sets, enabling complex computational tasks.
Example PLA Design: F = A·B + A'·C
01
Identify Product Terms
For the function F = A·B + A'·C, the distinct product terms required
are A·B and A'·C.
02
Program AND Array
Configure the programmable connections in the AND array to generate
these specific product terms from the inputs A, B, and C.
03
Program OR Array
Adjust the programmable connections in the OR array to sum the
generated product terms (A·B and A'·C), resulting in the final output
F.
A visual representation of how the PLA implements the given logic function.
Conclusion: The Enduring Role of PLAs
Flexible & Efficient
PLAs offer a highly adaptable and resource-efficient solution for digital logic implementation.
Universal Combinational Logic
They are perfectly suited for realising any type of combinational logic circuit.
Crucial in Digital Systems
PLAs remain a fundamental component in the design and operation of various digital systems
Foundation for Advanced PLDs
The principles of PLAs are foundational to more complex devices like CPLDs and
FPGAs, shaping future digital design.
