Optimized Three Bit Counter Employing T Flip-Flop in Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata Technology

Finding new efficient low-cost methods to use CMOS technology is one of the main topics in this area due to the physical limitations of the present methods. The researchers are looking to find new solutions to overcome VLSI problems such as large area, high power consumption, low speed, and electrical current issues. Quantum-dot cellular automata is a new nano-scale technology that has overcome the limits of metal oxide technology and is considered as an advanced method in digital circuit designs. QCA has attracted the attention of many researchers due to its special features such as power consumption, high-speed computing operations, and small dimensions. Besides, the counter is a module that has wide applications in digital systems. In this study, an optimized counter has been proposed in Quantum-dot cellular automata which has utilized T Flip-Flop and improved the cell number and area parameters. The design of the proposed circuit has employed 108 cells. The simulation results of the circuit show 0.1 μm<sup>2</sup> of area occupation. Also, the delay of circuit is 4.25 clock periods. This design has improved the cell number and area by 22% and 39%, respectively. The power or Complexity has reduced by 22% compare to the best prior design.