Definition
A digital logic circuit with two inputs and one output that produces a high (1) output only when its two inputs are different from each other. If both inputs are the same -- both high or both low -- the output is low (0). Often abbreviated XOR.
Plain English
An electronic decision-maker that turns on only when its two inputs disagree. Same inputs give zero; different inputs give one.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical and avionics schematics, especially when studying how electronic circuits compare two signals.
Derivation
From the logical term 'exclusive or,' meaning one or the other but not both. The word 'gate' is used because the circuit acts like a controlled opening that only lets a signal through under specific input conditions.
Why Pilots Care
A pilot may not operate this gate directly, but understanding it helps when reading basic avionics or electrical-system explanations and when discussing faults with maintenance personnel.
Analogy
Think of two light switches wired so the bulb is on only when the switches are in opposite positions. Flip them to match and the light goes off.
Intuition Check
Do not read “or” here as “one, the other, or both.” In an exclusive or gate, “or” means exactly one input is on, not both.
Example Sentence 1
The technician traced the fault to a failed exclusive or gate in the warning system's logic board.
Example Sentence 2
Technicians trace signals through the exclusive OR gate to verify the flap asymmetry warning functions correctly.