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

Let’s define a transistor as a 3 pin device that uses a signal at one pin to control the current flowing between the other two pins. In digital electronics that control signal would either be 1 or 0. With multiple transistors we can connect the transistors in such a way that only certain combinations of inputs at the control pins will allow current to flow through the load. I recommend looking up CMOS gate circuits to get a better picture of how this works.