EEPROM - definition
EEPROM - definition
EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a type of non-volatile semiconductor memory that allows multiple electrical writes and deletes selectively, without having to erase the contents of the entire memory at once. EEPROM is characterised by its ability to permanently store information even when power is removed, making it extremely useful in applications requiring the retention of configuration, user parameters or calibration of electronic devices.
The structure of the EEPROM memory cell is based on FGMOS (Floating Gate MOSFET) transistors, in which data is stored by the controlled accumulation or deletion of an electrical charge on an isolated gate. Data storage and deletion are realised using Fowler-Nordheim tunneling or the charge injection phenomenon, which allows the logic state to be preserved for decades.
In microprocessor systems and microcontrollers, EEPROM has the function of storing small but critical amounts of data, such as cryptographic keys, system settings or measurement records. Compared to Flash memory, EEPROM offers greater flexibility to store single bytes without having to first erase larger blocks of data, albeit at the cost of lower speed of operations and a limited number of write/erase cycles.
In industrial, automotive and medical applications, EEPROMs are chosen for their high reliability, resistance to electromagnetic interference and ability to operate over a wide temperature range. Modern EEPROMs are often integrated directly into microcontrollers or offered as standalone integrated circuits with serial interfaces such as I² C or SPI, which allows easy integration into complex electronic systems.
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