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Bench reference · 254 terms

Words worth knowing

Start with the plain-language meaning, then reach for the technical definition when you need precision.

Showing 1 term

Open-drain output

Also: open-collector output

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In plain language

An output that actively pulls low but needs an external path to become high.

Technical definition

Multiple compliant devices can share a line because none drives high; a pull-up and bus capacitance determine high level and rise time.

Example I²C data lines commonly use open-drain signaling with pull-ups.

Common misconception An open-drain pin does not produce a valid high by itself.