Open Collector Output

Chai thanks for introducing me to a new term, new to me anyhow in spite of a lifetime in electronics

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_collector

You ask if this configuration ensures fast switching, and without making a project of the q, I'd think so. As I understand it, the IC transistor whose output is an open collector can be bigger and more powerful that the one that would otherwise constitute its output so faster switching is ensured by a junction of heavier-duty or higher gain