FCC Exam Question: 3-36E6

An R-S flip-flop is capable of doing all of the following except:

A. Accept data input into R-S inputs with CLK initiated.
B. Accept data input into PRE and CLR inputs without CLK being initiated.
C. Refuse to accept synchronous data if asynchronous data is being input at same time.
D. Operate in toggle mode with R-S inputs held constant and CLK initiated.
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: An R-S flip-flop determines its output based on the Set (S) and Reset (R) inputs. * **A) Accept data input into R-S inputs with CLK initiated.** This is a fundamental operation of a synchronous R-S flip-flop. The clock (CLK) signal synchronizes when the R and S inputs affect the output. So, an R-S flip-flop *can* do this. * **B) Accept data input into PRE and CLR inputs without CLK being initiated.** PRE (preset) and CLR (clear) are asynchronous inputs found on many flip-flops. They override the clock and synchronous inputs (R/S), immediately setting or clearing the flip-flop's output. So, an R-S flip-flop *can* do this. * **C) Refuse to accept synchronous data if asynchronous data is being input at same time.** Asynchronous inputs (PRE/CLR) have priority over synchronous inputs (R/S). If PRE or CLR are active, the flip-flop responds to them, effectively ignoring the R/S and CLK. So, an R-S flip-flop *can* do this. * **D) Operate in toggle mode with R-S inputs held constant and CLK initiated.** Toggle mode means the output flips its state (0 to 1, or 1 to 0) with each clock pulse. An R-S flip-flop has no inherent toggle input or mode. If R and S are held constant (e.g., both 0 for "hold" or one active for "set"/"reset"), the output will either remain unchanged or go to a fixed state, not alternate with each clock pulse. Toggle functionality is characteristic of J-K or T flip-flops. Thus, an R-S flip-flop *cannot* inherently operate in toggle mode.

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Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.