Tri-state buffer

A tri-state buffer is a type of special electronic circuit. It helps devices (like computers) to talk to each other. This type of buffer allows the signals moving through the buffer to be in three different states. Those states are "on" (where the signal passes through the buffer), "off" (where the signal is blocked) and "high impedance" (where the signal floats and isn't able to pass). This is useful because it allows different devices to use the same wires to send signals without them mixing together and getting confused.