latch

latch

1. a fastening for a gate or door that consists of a bar that may be slid or lowered into a groove, hole, etc.

2. a spring-loaded door lock that can be opened by a key from outside

3. Electronics a logic circuit that transfers the input states to the output states when signalled, the output thereafter remaining insensitive to changes in input status until signalled again

Collins Discovery Encyclopedia, 1st edition © HarperCollins Publishers 2005

latch

[lach]

(electronics)

An electronic circuit that reverses and maintains its state each time that power is applied.

(engineering)

Any of various closing devices on a door that fit into a hook, notch, or cavity in the frame.

In plastics fabrication, a device used to hold together the two members of a mold.

(mining engineering)

To make an underground survey with a dial and chain, or to mark out upon the surface, with the same instruments, the position of the workings underneath.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E, Copyright © 2003 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

latch

A simple fastening device having a latch bolt, but not a dead bolt; contains no provisions for locking with a key; usually openable from both sides.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Architecture and Construction. Copyright © 2003 by McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

latch

A digital logic circuit used to store one or more bits. A latch has a data input, a clock input and an output. When the clock input is active, data on the input is "latched" or stored and transfered to the output either immediately or when the clock input goes inactive. The output will then retain its value until the clock goes active again.

See also flip-flop.

This article is provided by FOLDOC - Free Online Dictionary of Computing (foldoc.org)

latch

An electronic circuit that maintains one of two states. See flip-flop.

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