GCSE Design Technology Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

A bistable integrated circuit is defined by its ability to exist in one of two stable states, effectively functioning like a switch that can alternate between these positions without requiring constant input or triggering. This characteristic enables devices such as flip-flops to store binary information (0 or 1) in digital circuits. The ability to maintain either state until switched by an external signal is what distinguishes bistable circuits from systems that can only have one stable state, which would limit their functionality. Similarly, they do not constantly change states, nor are they specifically designed for time delay applications. Instead, their primary function is to serve as memory elements or signaling devices in various electronic systems.