EEPROM IC Distributor in China

UNIFORTUNE EEPROM IC is highly-speed, highly reliable, low-power devices, offered in 16Kb, 32Kb, 64kb, and 128kb densities. Our UNIFORTUNE EEPROM IC is optimized for use in consumer and industrial application, where reliable and dependable non-volatile memory storage is essential. UNIFORTUNE EEPROM IC allows up to eight devices to share a common 12 C bus and is capable of operation across a board voltage range.

UNIFORTUNE EEPROM IC features a 2-pin memory (SI/O signal and ground) that harvest energy from the signal pin to power an integrated circuit. It utilizes the single-wire bus and only two pins are needed to access the device. The SI/O signal is a combination data and power line providing power to the device with a parasitic power scheme.

UNIFORTUNE EEPROM IC are compatible byte and page writable serial EEPROM designed to provide simple yet flexible data storage. It has an ultra-high write endurance capability allowing for greater than 1 million write cycles to each and every memory location to meet the needs of today’s High write endurance application.

Typical applications of UNIFORTUNE EEPROMS are analog sensor calibration data storage, ink and toner printer cartridge identification and management of after-market consumables. UNIFORTUNE EEPROM IC do have an internal error correction for extended endurance and improved data retention characteristics. An option software data protection mechanism is available to guard against unplanned writes.

UNIFORTUNE is specializing in electronic components distribution business. We adhere to honesty and ethics as our business philosophy, and have gradually established an excellent reputation and credibility in our international business. With the accurate quotation, excellent credit, reasonable price, reliable quality, fast delivery, authentic service, we have won the praise of majority of customers. If you want the best EEPROM IC, UNIFORTUNE is the best choice. For almost 15 years, UNIFORTUNE become the most trusted and reliable electronic supplier in the industry. Hurry and avail now!

EEPROM IC: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

An integrated circuit is an agglomeration of interconnected electronic components consisting transistors, capacitors and resistors combining to execute specific functions.

Functions an integrated circuit can carry out include as a counter, a microprocessor, an amplifier, or a memory chip.

What is an EEPROM IC?

An EEPROM IC is a stable memory chip of non-volatile type that can be modified. Non-volatile memory or storage refers to the ability to retain saved data in the event power is cut off.

You use an EEPROM IC to store data in minimal quantities. It includes storing data in electronic devices such as computers.

You can erase and reprogramme a singular byte of the data stored in an EEPROM IC more than once.

In addition, you do not have to remove the EEPROM IC from the device in order to modify it.

EEPROM IC

How does an EEPROM IC Work?

The principle of operation of an EEPROM IC is as follows:

In an EEPROM IC, you find that the individualities of a cell are altered by electrons. The electrons are confined in a floating gate which is basically an electrically charged transistor.

As such, storage is in the form of logic 0 or 1.

Most cells comprise two transistors namely – the storage transistor and the access transistor.

The storage transistor, of which the floating gate is a part of, captures the electrons. The access transistor handles the operation.

Floating gate

You find the OP-Code phase, the Address Phase and the Data Phase being the three phases in which the EEPROM IC operates.

An EEPROM IC’s serial input pin determines the phase of operation.

The OP-Code phase comprises the first 8-bits. This phase executes different functions with specific instructions such as write and read.

The Address Phase consists of the next 16 to 24 bits which is dependent on the device’s depth.

The Data phase comes last. To write data, you supply data until the selection on the chip is low. To read data, you sample data until the selection on the chip is low.

Entrapment of electrons in the floating cell results in the cell’s deletion.

What is an EEPROM IC used for?

You use an EEPROM IC in the following ways:

• EEPROM ICs are useful in the storage of configuration parameters.
• Basic Input Output System memory of latter day computers relies on EEPROM ICs.
• You will also find EEPROM ICs in microcontrollers to carry out dedicated functions.
• Personal security devices including cellular SIM cards and financial payment cards make use of EEPROM ICs.
• EEPROM ICs are utilized in digital devices such as temperature sensors to save data required in the absence of power.

What is the difference between ROM, PROM, EPROM, EAPROM and EEPROM?

Here is what you need to know about these types of memories.

· ROM

ROM is an acronym for Read Only Memory.

This type of memory is one where you can read but not write on it. It is of non-volatile memory type and as such it retains its memory in the absence of power.

Information stored on read only memory upon manufacture is of a permanent nature.

It is used to store computer startup instructions and other electronic appliances such as microwave ovens and washing machines.

· PROM

PROM refers to Programmable Read Only Memory. This memory type allows you as a user to modify one time only.

The information on a modified PROM is then permanent and you can neither erase nor revise anymore.

You require a current source for the programming as opposed to a voltage source.

· EPROM

EPROM refers to Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory. You can erase and program an EPROM allowing for its reuse.

When programming, you trap an electrical charge in a gate region that is insulated. Since there is no path of leakage for the charge, it can be retained for over a decade.

By exposing an EPROM to UV rays, for a little more than half an hour, you can erase data on it. To erase the charge, you direct the UV light through a quartz window which causes the charge to scatter.

You have to detach the EPROM chip from the mainboard in order to carry out the erasure process.

· EAPROM

EAPROM stands for Electronically Alterable Programmable Read-Only Memory. You can alter the contents of an EAPROM making it the distinguishing factor over a PROM.

Its memory type is non-volatile with the ability to reprogram individual bits during operation.

· EEPROM

An EEPROM is an Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory. An EEPROM is similar to an EPROM only that you use an electric field for erasing rather than UV light.

You can erase and reprogram an EEPROM many times over. The erasure process and reprogramming is fast taking less than a second.

You can also erase individual bytes rather than the chip in its entirety.

What is the difference between Internal EEPROM IC and External EEPROM IC?

EEPROM ICs are classified as either internal or external based on the configuration of their memory.

Interfacing EEPROM

The internal EEPROM IC’s design is such that all programs, interrupts and data memory are contained within the chip.

It is otherwise known as an embedded EEPROM IC.

The external EEPROM IC’s design is such that the chip lacks a program memory having to utilize an external location.

An internal EEPROM IC is a lot faster with regard to its read time and write time.

An external EEPROM IC allows larger amounts of data storage in comparison to the internal EEPROM IC.

How does an EEPROM IC compare with Flash Memory IC Chip?

An EEPROM IC is a type of non-volatile memory chip used to store data in small quantities. It is able to store data even in the absence of power.

An EEPROM IC erases and writes digital data electrically.

It is used in electronic devices such as computers and electronic systems like circuit boards.

A Flash Memory IC is a unique type of EEPROM IC which can separately be used for memory storage. A Flash Memory IC stores data by using floating-gate transistors.

Flash memory IC

The Flash Memory IC is utilized in devices such as phones, media players, USB flash drives and solid-state drives.

AN EEPROM IC differs mainly from a Flash Memory IC in that they use different logic gate types.

EEPROM ICs use NOR (Not/ OR) which is faster than NAND (Not/AND) that the Flash Memory ICs incorporate.

However, the NAND type is cheaper than the NOR hence the popularity of storage devices based on Flash Memory IC.

You can only erase a byte of data at any given time with an EEPROM IC.

In Flash Memory ICs, however, you can erase block-wise. A block consists of individual bytes which could number thousands in a single block.

You cannot use a Flash Memory IC in a circuit requiring access to a single byte of data therefore.

An EEPROM IC is aligned more to be read than to be written. You find that it is not suitable for use as a storage device where data is written into many times.

A Flash Memory IC is incorporated mainly in media storage and storing data to the tune of hundreds of gigabytes.

EEPROM ICs are mostly used for storing codes permanently in chips with smaller storage capacity.

In summary, you find:

• A Flash Memory IC is a unique type of EEPROM IC.
• While an EEPROM IC uses NOR type memory, a Flash Memory IC uses NAND type.
• You erase a Flash Memory IC block by block and an EEPPROM IC byte by byte.
• An EEPROM IC is hardly rewritten whereas a Flash Memory IC is rewritten numerously.
• You use a Flash Memory IC in case you have large storage needs compared to an EEPROM ICs smaller needs.

What are the Advantages of EEPROM IC?

There are many advantages attached to using EEPROM IC.

They include:

EEPROM IC

• The erasure process is immediate as it is done electrically.
• You can erase a single byte of data or the whole chip depending on your need.
• You can erase and program an EEPROM IC without having to detach it from the mainboard like an EPROM IC.
• You do not require extra equipment to alter an EEPROM IC’s contents. An EPROM IC requires the use of a UV light emitter.
• There are different interfaces you can consider when using an EEPROM IC such as serial and parallel bus.
• You are able to reprogram an EEPROM IC many times.

What are the Disadvantages of an EEPROM IC?

A number of limitations arise from using an EEPROM IC as follows:

• You require separate voltage values to be able to erase or read or write data on an EEPROM IC.
• Data retention on an EEPROM IC is not perpetual and can last for just about a decade.
• Locating an external EEPROM IC of serial bus is time consuming. You should then base your selection of the right type of EEPROM IC to use on application.
• EEPROM ICs are costlier in comparison to EPROM ICs and PROM ICs.

How can you Read EEPROM IC?

The EEPROM integrated circuit can be read or written by using six Special Function Registers, SFRS.

• EECON1: This acts as a control register for accessing memory.
• EECON2: When you read the EECON2, it is all zeros (0s). This register is not physical and is usually used for the write sequence.
• EEDATA: This register contains the 8-bit data necessary for read/write when you interface with the block containing data memory.
• EEDATH: The EEDATH and EEDATA registers combine to formulate a two-byte word during interfacing of the block containing the program memory. This two-byte word then holds the 14-bit data necessary for read/write.
• EEADR: This register holds the location address of the EEPROM IC you are trying to access. This is during the process of interfacing to the block with data memory.
• EEADRH: Alongside the EEADR, the EEADRH register create a two byte word when interfacing with the block containing the program memory. This two-byte word in turn holds the address of the location of the program memory being accessed in 13-bit.

An EEPROM IC allows operations of reading or writing on a single byte only. The procedure for reading data on an EEPROM IC is as follows:

• You write the location address to the EEADR. You need to ensure the address you input should be less than the device’s memory size.
• Then clear the EEPGD bit. Ensure it points to the EEPROM IC’s memory data.
• To enable the commencement of the read operation, set the RD bit.
• Using the EEDATA register, you can now read the data.

Is an EEPROM IC Read Only?

No it is not.

One advantage of an EEPROM IC is the ability for you to read, erase and write data to it.

It should be noted however, that the read and write operations are slower when compared to RAM. Data therefore has to be stored in a manner that does not interfere with the system at large.

To write onto an EEPROM IC, you have to first erase data from it. Both operations are done on a byte by byte basis.

What is an EEPROM IC Error?

An EEPROM IC error could be due to the following reasons:

• Corruption of the data stored on an EEPROM IC.
• When there is an occurrence of a sudden power surge to the device.

How does an EEPROM IC Store Data?

EEPROM Circuit

An EEPROM IC has a memory cell that has two transistors of field effect. These are the storage transistor and the access transistor.

The access transistor handles the operation of the memory cell while the storage transistor stores the data.

The storage transistor is composed of a floating gate which captures electrons. It is the presence, or lack thereof, of these electrons that determines the data stored therein.

These trapped electrons alter the cell characteristics.

Two types of memory are available – Serial EEPROM memory and Parallel EEPROM memory.

In serial EEPROM Memory ICs data is transferred serially making them slower than parallel EEPROMs.

The serial type consists the three phases of OP-Code Phase, Address Phase and Data Phase. The OP-Code phase consists the leading 8-bit array.

Followed by the Address Phase which consists of the next 16 to 24 bits. The Data Phase comes last.

The parallel type is usually characterized by an 8-bit bus. Being faster than the serial type, it is therefore more reliable.

Their compatibility also allows for sharing of data stored with other ICs such as EPROM IC and Flash Memory IC.

How can you Erase Data from EEPROM Integrated Circuit?

You erase data on an EEPROM IC electrically by use of a voltage higher than the usual operating supply.

This process is otherwise called Fowler-Nordheim tunneling.

You use a high electric field in this process to force electrons to penetrate a barrier such as semiconductor material.

The binary data in the EEPROM IC is altered by the electricity. When the trapped electrons in the floating gate lose charge, data is erased.

It is worth to note that you can only carry out the erasure process in an EEPROM IC only on one byte at a time.

How many times can you Erase data from an EEPROM ICs?

You can erase data on an EEPROM IC and write on it many times.

However, there is a limit to the number of times you can be able to do this.

The EEPROM IC can live through about a hundred thousand write/erase cycles specific to the manufacturer’s tolerance.

Some EEPROM ICs may achieve a lower or higher number of cycles at which point they become unstable.

Erasing and writing a particular location one too many times can result in unreliability of the bit. This could result in the bit providing incorrect data or remitting another bit’s value.

You can nonetheless read data on an EEPROM IC many times without any negative consequence.

Why do we need an EEPROM IC in a Microcontroller?

A microcontroller is basically a miniaturized computer usually embedded in a system and designed to execute a specified function.

It is referred to as a computer because it has a CPU, memory (RAM/ROM) and input/output peripherals.

You need an EEPROM IC in a microcontroller to store its program memory.

Program memory contains the instructions to be carried out by the microcontroller’s CPU and is of non-volatile nature.

Can you reprogram an EEPROM IC?

Yes you can.

An EEPROM IC refers to an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory. This means you can read, erase and re-programme the IC many times over.

To program an EEPROM IC, you have to be aware of the three unique enabling pins on the EEPROM.

These are the Output Enable (OE), the Chip Enable (CE) and the Write Enable (WE).

The Chip Enable pin activates the EEPROM IC which would otherwise be non-responsive if the CE is not enabled.

The Output Enable allows the EEPROM IC to output a single byte.

The Write Enable instructs the EEPROM IC to program a byte.

For most EEPROM ICs, these Enable signals are active at low VCC.

To programme an EEPROM IC, you need to ensure the Chip Enable is activated and the Output Enable disabled.

You disable the Output Enable to prevent the EEPROM IC from outputting any byte by itself.

You therefore tie the Chip Enable at low and the Output Enable at high.

Meanwhile, you need to keep the Write Enable disabled.

You then power your EEPROM IC by connecting its power pins to a source of power.

To highlight the byte you intend to store and its storage address, configure the EEPROM IC’s data and address bus.

After setting the data bus and address bus, to write the byte, you need to cycle the Write Enable pin. This entails activating and disabling the Write Enable in succession.

This ends the programming process, storing your byte in the EEPROM IC.

You can use the Output Enable to examine your stored byte.

EEPROM Integrated Circuit

What is a Quartz Window in an EPROM IC package?

The quartz window is a distinguishing feature of the EPROM IC package.

An EPROM IC is an Erasable and Programmable ROM which allows data to be erased and written on to it.

Ultra violet light is used in the erasure process of an EPROM IC.

The quartz window on an EEPROM IC package allows the chip to be exposed to the UV light.

What Memory can define an EEPROM IC?

An EEPROM IC is stores data in the form of non-volatile memory.

Non-volatile memory is storage that retains saved data even in the absence of power.

This means that, it cannot lose data already stored in the event power is cut off.

What Memory Types are available in EEPROM IC?

You will find two types of memory in any given EEPROM IC: Serial EEPROM Memory and Parallel EEPROM memory.

• Serial EEPROM Memory:

Data transfer in a serial memory is in a serial manner i.e. in succession.

This makes the data transfer process much slower and difficult to operate than in parallel EEPROM Memory.

Serial protocol in an EEPROM IC entails three phases: the OP- Code Phase, the Address Phase and the Data Phase.

The OP-Code phase comprises the first 8-bits. It executes different functions with specific instructions such as write and read.

The Address Phase consists of the next 16 to 24 bits which is dependent on the device’s depth.

The Data phase comes last. You supply data till the chip selection is low in order to write on it. To read, on the other hand, requires you to sample data till the chip selection is low.

The interfaces above ensure the EEPROM IC is contained in a package with just eight pins. This is a small size and is primarily the advantage over the parallel EEPROM memory chip.

· Parallel EEPROM Memory

This memory chips are characterized by their data bus of usually 8 bits and a wide address bus. This wideness enables the coverage of the memory in its entirety.

In many devices, the parallel EEPROM memory chip also has pins for chip select and write protect.

Generally, operating a parallel EEPROM Memory IC is simpler and faster than a serial EEPROM Memory IC.

You can attribute this to a parallel EPROM Memory IC having a comparatively larger memory density.

Parallel EPROM Memory ICs are also preferred for their compatibility with the Flash Memory IC.

Considering cost and convenience, parallel EEPROM Memory ICs are less desirable.

The serial EEPROM Memory IC also wins the size battle. This is because parallel EEPROM Memory ICs have a higher pin count making them larger.

In addition, for comprehensive communications Serial EEPROM Memory ICs require only 2-4 input/output lines.

Parallel EEPROM Memory ICs require no less than 22 input/output lines, this being dependent on the memory density.

What are Problems when Using EEPROM IC?

EEPROM IC

You will find two major problems when using an EEPROM IC that are a concern to its reliability.

EEPROM ICs can fail in either of the two ways alluded to above.

· Data Retention Time

The time an EEPROM IC can retain its data is imperative especially when used in carrying operational software. Such software could be such as booting protocol for electronics.

EEPROM ICs have a limited data retention time. This is due to the drifting of the electrons injected into the floating gate through the insulator.

These electrons drift because the insulator has no perfect insulation qualities.

As a result, the charge stored in the floating gate is lost. This mirrors the effect of erasure process leading to a loss of data.

However, it takes a while before the advent of this failure. Many chip makers provide at least a decade of decent use.

· Data Endurance

The problem of data endurance has been credited to the rewriting operations of an EEPROM IC.

When electrons are trapped by the floating gate transistors, some eventually accumulate on the gate oxide.

This results in the creation of two electric fields. In the event there are no electrons trapped in the floating gate, there still exists a residual field.

Continued rewrite procedures result in the accumulation of more electrons at the gate oxide. The residual field enlarges and in the end identifying the condition for zero sate is compromised.

This causes the memory cell to be stuck in a programmed state.

Chip makers therefore provide a limit to the number of times you could run rewrite cycles on an EEPROM IC.

What Devices employ EEPROM ICs?

You will find EEPROM ICs in the following devices.

• In computers, EEPROM ICs are used to initiate the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS).
• EEPROM ICs are used in test-equipment as storage for re-programmable calibration information.
• Remote operated transmitters use EEPROM ICs to store data for their in-built self-learning functionality.
• In phones, an EEPROM IC is used in storing speed dials and redialing of last numbers.
• The automotive industry employs the EEPROM IC in devices such as the odometer, air bags and anti-lock brakes..

Which Features should you consider in EEPROM ICs?

EEPROM

You should consider the following features in an EEPROM IC.

• Schmitt trigger, inputs that are filtered for noise suppression
• The available automotive devices
• The bidirectional protocol for data transfer
• Write modes for the 8-byte (1K, 2K) and 16 byte (4K, 8K, 16K) page.
• Self-timed write cycle
• Low and standard voltage operation for the EEPROM IC [100 kHz (1.8V)//400 kHz (2.7V, 5V)]
• Internal organization 128 x 8 (1K (, 256 x 8 (2K), 512 x 8 (4K), 1924 x 8 (8K) or 29048 x 8 (16K)
• A serial interface with two wires (for reading and writing data into it)
• A write protect pin for hardware data protection
• The number of partial age writes that are allowed

What are the components of EEPROM ICs?

EEPROM Integrated Circuit

The most common EEPROM ICs have 8 pins with the following functions.

• Pin 1-3: These are usually the chip’s address inputs. Two pins are used for addressing while one serves as a no connection pin. (A0,A1,A2)
• Pin 4: This is the ground pin. (GND)
• Pin 5: This is a serial data pin that is bi-directional to transfer data serially. (SDA)
• Pin 6: This is the serial clock input and it dispenses the positive clock signals. (SCL)
• Pin 7: This is the write protect pin. It protects data in the hardware. When it is connected to the ground pin, it enables read/write procedures. (WP)
• Pin 8: This is the power supply pin. (VCC)

How does EEPROM IC Pin Diagram Look like?

An EEPROM IC Pin diagram is as shown below.

Note: the numbers 1-8 denote the pins on an EEPROM IC.

EEPROM Pin

How do you Test EEPROM ICs?

You can test your EEPROM IC by reading it at low, nominal and high VCC.

Loss of sufficient charge might result in a correct reading at low VCC. However, it will reflect a different reading at nominal VCC.

Checking the value at a high VCC will enable you to monitor the program margin.

What is EEPROM Memory IC Specification?

You will appreciate the following features on the EEPROM IC.

• The capability to read sequentially
• An operating voltage range of 1.8 V to 5.5 V
• In case of mistaken instruction, there is a function to recognize and protect against write.
• The EEPROM IC has a frequency of operation of 2.0 MHz [VCC (4.5-5.5 V)]
• A long endurance of over 5 million write cycles.
• Data retention of up to 150 years.
• Use of lead and halogen free material.
• A memory array of 8 kilobytes for the EEPROM and 32 bytes for page size.
• Compatibility with models having 12 bus.
• Provision of initial shipment data.

Do EEPROM Memory ICs have Security Protection Mechanism?

Yes they do.

EEPROM Memory ICs are used in particular applications where security measures have to be put in place.

These applications include the use of transactional payment cards, cellular SIM cards and key-less systems.

Some EEPROM Memory ICs have adopted, through firmware control, protocols to prevent particular sections of memory data from being accessed.

Other EEPROM based memory ICs employ methods that block access to data by external interfaces like a debugger.

You will find other EEPROM Memory ICs that use encryption to protect sensitive data such as passwords and biometric data.

As you can see, EEPROM IC is a robust memory IC.

You can use it for a range of applications on different platforms.

However, you can only achieve this by choosing reliable and quality EEPROM IC. That’s exactly what UNIFORTUNE does – Contact us today for inquiries and orders.