Design and Construction of a Digital Logic Training Module for Laboratory Experimentation

Design and Construction of a Digital Logic Training Module for Laboratory Experimentation

B. N. Ben-Festus1, M. O. Osinowo 2, and Ben Festus1
1Department of Physics with Electronics, Federal Polytechnic Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
2Department of Physical Sciences, Redeemer’s University Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2023.8511

Received: 12 April 2023; Accepted: 28 April 2023; Published: 18 June 2023

Abstract: A Digital Logic Trainer is used to train students on experimental verification and implementation of basic logic gates. This research work describes a digital logic training (DLT) module designed and constructed using semiconductor components such as diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits. The DLT module can be used to verify logic gate theorems including Boolean expressions, combinational logic designs and Karnaugh’s reduction techniques for a given logic circuit. The front panel of the DLT module comprises of different Boolean symbols for easy logic gates identification and operates effectively on a 5 V DC rectified from a 220 V AC power supply. The DLT module performs favourably well when compared with commercially available types and comes at a lower production cost.

Index Terms: Logic Trainer, Training Kit, Boolean Algebra, Semiconductor, Logic gates

I. Introduction

The Polytechnic education in Nigeria is designed to fill the technical manpower gap of the country, a factor which is largely responsible for the large unemployment statistics witnessed in Nigeria presently (Okwelle and Wordu, 2016; Ibrahim, 2021). Quality technical education requires a good mastery and replication of basic experimental designs as opposed to theoretical knowledge only. However, for a developing country like Nigeria with poor education funding, access to scientific equipment to facilitate learning in line with the Technical Education Vocational Training (TVET) objectives will only be a mirage (Ajao et al., 2014). One way to address this wide gap in the Nigerian Education System is for Scientists and Technologist to develop science training equipment using basic science theories with the aim of improving assimilation, mastery and good understanding of the subjects being taught. One of such approach is what this study aims at.
Digital logic can be described as the building block on which digital systems functions be it in computing, or electronics are founded (Richard et al., 2004; Sparkfun, 2018). A good understanding of sequential and combinational circuits, gates, decoders, counters, amongst others requires a thorough understanding of the digital logic concept. Digital logics are best understood using experimentation techniques as it is difficult for most students to grasp the importance of digital zeros and ones in real life applications. Module is one of the most used scientific tools to aid understanding of digital logic concepts by students (Alasdoon, 2013; Rizzoni, 2004).

Full Text  PDF