How do logic gates calculate their output?

Question

Do transistors calculate the output? If so, wouldn’t transistors be the most fundamental logic of computers?

Thanks.

In: Technology

Answer 1

I would highly recommend checking out Ben Eater’s channel on YouTube. He has great videos that explain how computer hardware works, and he does so by building them out on a breadboard, accompanied by diagrams, etc.

For your particular question, his 13 minute video ‘Making Logic Gates From Transistors’ (https://youtu.be/sTu3LwpF6XI) takes you through each logic gate in a simple to follow format, and he builds them out with transistors.

Other videos of his include building a basic 8-bit computer, RAM modules, and even a video card from scratch with explanations. He’s also now selling kits so you can follow along with his builds.