Mon, 5th Oct 2015, 08:51 Re: Problem Set Question

A student writes:



> Hi Dr.Patt,
>
> I was working over the problem set with a study group and we came over a
> specific question about finite state machines. Is it possible to have a
> Boolean within the arc? So on question 8, we were wondering if we could
> have a variable, such as 0 or 1, so that we could identify whether or 
> not the machine had already reached 35 cents or not. Thanks.
>
> Thank you.
> <<name withheld to protect the student who wants to use Mealy machines>>



I am not sure I understand your question.  If you are asking if there can be
an output associated with the arc, the answer is no.  There is a type of finite
state machine in which you can have an output associated with the transistion
arc, it is called a Mealy model.  BUT we are not using that type of finite
state machine.  We are using what is called the Moore model, in which outputs
are associated with the states ONLY, and NOT the arcs.

If I have misinterpreted your question, please see a TA in office hours or ask
me in class later today.

Good luck on the midterm.



Yale Patt