Moore machine output with a leading zero

[Lord Anoobis]

Homework Statement

The question deals with a Moore machine of which I have omitted the diagram for reasons which will become apparent below. The initial state is $q_0 / 0$. What is the output if the input string is aabbabaaa?
1) 101111101
2) 1101111101
3) 1010000010
4) None of the above.

Homework Equations

None.

The Attempt at a Solution

The trouble I'm having is this: the output that results from the given string is 0101111101 which leads me to the answer being 4 - none of the above, since the output string has to be longer than the input by one character. Options 2 and 3 are clearly incorrect. Option 1 is almost correct, save for the leading zero. When one encounters a situation like this is the leading zero truly significant in the answer or should it be discarded?

 

[CWatters]

It's impossible to answer the question. The leading bit could be a sign bit or most significant bit which would make it the err most significant bit of the output.

 

[Lord Anoobis]

It's impossible to answer the question. The leading bit could be a sign bit or most significant bit which would make it the err most significant bit of the output.

Exactly. There's no way of knowing if it may be a printing error. Looks like it'll be option 4 and hope for the best.

 

[CWatters]

If you are sure you haven't made a mistake.

 

[Lord Anoobis]

If you are sure you haven't made a mistake.

Absolutely certain.