Finite State Machines

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Definition

A finite state machine is a way of breaking down a problem into several mutually independent states that are only able to change when a transition occurs. A transition occurs when an input is given. The machine can only be in one state at a time.

A finite state machine is not a physical machine. It is an abstract representation of an algorithm, showing how something changes in response to inputs or events.

Finite State Automaton

A finite state automaton is a finite state machine which has no output. It has a start state and a set of end/accept states. If the automaton can reach an end state then the input is accepted.

Representing Finite State Machines

Finite state machines can be represented as diagrams.

Another way of representing Finite State Machines is through State Transition Tables. A State Transition Table lists all possible current states, all valid inputs that that particular state may receive, as well as what state the resulting transition leads to.

Mealy Machines

A finite state machine with an output is called a Mealy Machine. It will output a value based on the input.