Programmed latching circuits are retentive. If power is interrupted, the output will do what when power is returned?

• A. Remain in its original on or off state
• B. Return to default state
• C. Toggle to the opposite state
• D. Go to an undefined state

Answer: (A)

Retentive latching circuits are designed to remember their last commanded state. The memory element holds the on or off condition even when power is interrupted. When power returns, the stored value is read and the output resumes the same state it had before the power loss, rather than defaulting to a reset or toggling. This continuity is the essence of a retentive latch: it preserves the last condition across power interruptions.