Microchip 24AA02E48T-E/OT: A 2Kb I²C Serial EEPROM with a Pre-Programmed EUI-48™ Node Identity

In the rapidly expanding world of the Internet of Things (IoT), the need for unique device identification is paramount. The Microchip 24AA02E48T-E/OT addresses this critical requirement by integrating a pre-programmed, globally unique EUI-48™ identifier into a standard 2Kbit I²C Serial EEPROM. This powerful combination simplifies design, reduces component count, and accelerates time-to-market for connected devices.

This device serves a dual purpose. Primarily, it provides 4096 bits of Electrically Erasable PROM (EEPROM) organized as 256 x 8-bit bytes. It features a sophisticated I²C serial interface, supporting both Standard (100 kHz) and Fast (400 kHz) mode operation, making it compatible with a vast array of microcontrollers and processors. The memory offers high reliability with over 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years.

Its most significant feature, however, is the pre-programmed EUI-48™ (Extended Unique Identifier-48),

a 6-byte (48-bit) node identity that is globally unique and IEEE® registered. This identifier is essential for creating unique MAC addresses in IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet) and IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi) networks, ensuring that every device on a network can be distinctly identified. By embedding this value directly into the EEPROM, Microchip eliminates the need for system designers to manually source, manage, and program these critical identifiers, mitigating the risk of duplication and streamlining the manufacturing process.

Housed in a space-saving SOT-23-5 package, the 24AA02E48T is ideal for compact, portable applications. Its low-power consumption is perfectly suited for battery-operated IoT nodes, sensors, and other connected peripherals. The integration of non-volatile memory and a unique ID into a single chip represents a smart, efficient solution for modern embedded design.

ICGOODFIND: The Microchip 24AA02E48T-E/OT is an ingenious fusion of reliable memory and secure identity. It is an indispensable component for IoT developers, offering a plug-and-play unique node identity that simplifies network integration, enhances security, and reduces both design complexity and bill of materials.

Keywords:

1. EUI-48™

2. I²C EEPROM

3. Unique Identifier

4. IoT Device

5. MAC Address