#4-Digital Electronics 101: The Foundation of Every Chip
"Everything you need to know before writing your first line of Verilog."
Why Digital Electronics Matters ?
Before Verilog, before RTL, before timing reports—comes Digital Electronics.
It's the grammar of the VLSI language.
If you're struggling with FSMs or synthesis, chances are your digital fundamentals need a boost.
In this issue of “VLSI by Ankit” newsletter series, let’s explore what digital electronics is, why it’s important, and how to master it as a student or fresher in VLSI.
What is Digital Electronics?
The branch of electronics that deals with circuits operating on discrete signals—typically binary logic levels (0 and 1)—enabling functions like computation, control, data storage, and communication in integrated circuits and digital systems.
Digital Electronics : Teaching silicon how to think in black and white... literally.
Key Concepts to Master
How It Ties into VLSI Roles
Resources to Master Digital Basics
Books :
Digital Logic & Computer Design – M. Morris Mano
A classic—deeper and slightly more theoretical, but a must-have reference.Modern Digital Electronics – R.P. Jain
Especially useful in Indian university contexts. Simple and comprehensive.
Web Resources :
NPTEL : Lecture series on Digital Circuits & Systems by Prof.S.Srinivasan, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras.
NPTEL : Digital Circuits by Prof. Santanu Chattopadhyay, IIT Kharagpur.
Neso Academy YouTube - Playlist Link (Mainly for quick revision, short videos)
GeeksforGeeks Resources : Link
Basic Simulations :
EDA Playground : Use here
Try simple gate-level and RTL simulations with Verilog/SystemVerilog online.
Simple Digital Projects to Try
4-bit Adder/Subtractor
Priority Encoder
Binary to Gray Converter
Sequence Detector (like 1011)
8-bit ALU with Verilog Simulation
Each of these solidifies real concepts and prepares you for interviews.
Final Words
Whether you're aiming for RTL, DFT, or Physical Design—you can't skip digital electronics.
It's not just a subject, it's the mindset of how chips think.
I regularly share VLSI insights, industry updates, and career tips.
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