The 24AA02E48T-I/OT: A Pre-Programmed Identity Solution for Networked Nodes

In the expanding universe of the Internet of Things (IoT) and connected devices, establishing a unique, immutable identity for each node is a fundamental requirement. The Microchip 24AA02E48T-I/OT addresses this critical need by combining a reliable 2Kbit I²C Serial EEPROM with a factory pre-programmed, globally unique EUI-48™ identifier. This integration simplifies design, accelerates time-to-market, and guarantees compliance with IEEE® standards for node identification.

This device serves a dual purpose. Primarily, it offers 2048 bits of Electrically Erasable PROM (EEPROM) memory organized in a 256 x 8-bit block. It features the ubiquitous I²C serial interface, supporting clock speeds up to 400 kHz for efficient communication with a host microcontroller. The memory array provides essential data storage for system parameters, calibration constants, or operational logs, with a endurance of 1,000,000 erase/write cycles and data retention exceeding 200 years.

Its most significant feature, however, is the integrated pre-programmed EUI-48™ node identity. The EUI-48 (Extended Unique Identifier-48) is a 48-bit number—equivalent to a MAC address—that is burned into the device at the factory. This identifier is guaranteed to be globally unique, eliminating the logistical complexity and cost for manufacturers to obtain and manage their own MAC address blocks. The EUI-48 is stored in a dedicated, read-only memory space, ensuring it cannot be accidentally altered or erased during operation.

Housed in a space-saving SOT-23-5 package, the 24AA02E48T-I/OT is ideal for compact, portable, and space-constrained applications. Its low power consumption makes it a perfect fit for battery-powered devices. Typical applications range from IoT sensor modules and networked consumer devices to factory automation systems and any product requiring a unique MAC address for Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth connectivity.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip 24AA02E48T-I/OT is an elegant two-in-one solution that seamlessly merges essential non-volatile memory with a guaranteed-unique hardware address. It removes a key manufacturing hurdle, providing designers with a simple, reliable, and industry-standard method to embed a permanent node identity into their designs, thereby enhancing security and connectivity from the ground up.

Keywords: EUI-48, I²C EEPROM, Unique Node Identity, IoT Device Connectivity, Pre-Programmed MAC Address.