A NAND gate is an electrical logic component made of a configuration of transistors. A transistor is a device that amplifies a current if the transistor has a power source. NAND gates fall under the broader category of transistor-transistor logic (TTL) devices. Modern electronics rely on NAND gates and other forms of TTL components.
History
Before the transistor was invented, relays were used in lieu of NAND gates. Relays were electrical switches that physically opened and close with the application of electricity.
Use
NAND gates are used in various configurations to create different logic operations.
Packaging
The transistors that make up a NAND gate are delicate, thus they are packaged in a small black chip, often containing multiple NAND gates in one chip. Pins are included on the sides of the chip so it can be attached to a circuit board.
Cost
Due to advances in transistor manufacturing technology NAND gates are available at relatively low costs.
Manufacturers
Several companies produce NAND gates, including: Fairchild Semiconductor, National Semiconductor and Texas Instruments.
Tags: NAND gates