Gray code is considered beneficial for multiple electromechanical applications due to its error resilience property. This is achieved due to the single-bit change from one code word to the adjacent next code word. This article lists down a few more applications of Gray code.
- The Gray code is used in the transmission of digital signals, as it minimizes the occurrence of errors.
- The Gray code is preferred over the straight binary code in angle-measuring devices. Use of the Gray code almost eliminates the possibility of an angle misread, which is likely if the angle is represented in straight binary. The cyclic property of the Gray code is a plus in this application.
- The Gray code is used for labelling the axes of Karnaugh maps, a graphical technique used for the minimization of Boolean expressions.
- The use of Gray codes to address program memory in computers minimizes power consumption. This is due to fewer address lines changing state with advances in the program counter.
- Gray codes are also very useful in genetic algorithms since mutations in the code allow for mostly incremental changes. However, occasionally a one-bit change can result in a big leap, thus leading to new properties.
Reference: Maini, Anil K. Digital electronics: principles, devices and applications. John Wiley & Sons.