Designing a 2-Bit Half Adder: How to Add Two 2-Bit Numbers Without Carry?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on designing a 2-bit half adder that adds two 2-bit numbers, denoted as ab and cd, producing a 3-bit output (c, s1, s0). Participants clarify that a half adder does not accept a carry input, while a full adder does. The output carry (c) should only be 1 when the sum of ab and cd exceeds 3. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between half adders and full adders in digital design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of digital logic design concepts
  • Familiarity with half adder and full adder circuits
  • Knowledge of binary addition
  • Basic skills in creating truth tables
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the design and implementation of full adders
  • Learn how to create truth tables for multi-bit adders
  • Explore digital design textbooks for in-depth examples
  • Research the role of carry in binary addition
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for computer engineering exams, digital circuit designers, and anyone interested in understanding binary addition and digital logic design principles.

delta59
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I had a cpre exam last night and this was the last question. Can some one tell me the answer, I'm curious if I got it right or not. The part that tripped me up was a 2 bit "half adder". I assumed I wasn't supposed to use a full adder. So I'm not sure what to do with the carry from the first adder.

In this problem we will design a 2-bit half adder(add without carry) that adds two 2-bit number, denoted by ab/cd respectively and produces a 3 bit output (c,s1,s0)
 
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What did you come up with?
 
i am sure you know that 2 H.A.= 1 F.A.
and that carry 'travels' from one adder to the next one. All digital design books show you how it's done.
right?
 
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delta59 said:
In this problem we will design a 2-bit half adder(add without carry) that adds two 2-bit number, denoted by ab/cd respectively and produces a 3 bit output (c,s1,s0)

You want to make sure it will produce the right answer, I think that should indicate what to do with the result of adding the first two bits together.

A half-adder means there is no carry in. A 2-bit half adder is a box that adds two 2-bit numbers but there is no carry coming in.
 
Here is what I got and my assumption of the circuit. Sorry in the drawing s1 is s1 and s2 is s0
 

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lewando said:
What did you come up with?

this look right
 
I think it is safe to say you got this one wrong. Your tables do not look right. For example, c should be a 1 only when ab + cd > 3.

[edit-- fyi, a half adder has a carry output. A full adder has a carry input and a carry output.]
 
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