New Fast-mode Plus devices operate at 1 MHz up to 540 pF

NXP's new I²C Fast-mode Plus (Fm+) devices go from zero to 1 MHz so you can go to the next design level with higher data rates and up to 540 pF bus loading. In computing, telecom and networking systems architecture the trend is for greater use of I²C-bus as a maintenance and control bus, so more bandwidth and more devices on the bus is required.

Application examples

The I²C-bus appears in virtually every application. In cellular handsets, LED blinkers and dimmers can control keypad, fun lighting and status LEDs. These ICs can also be used for more advanced status or illumination control while off-loading host processors in LCD displays. LCD segment or LCD matrix drivers with an I²C interface are ideal for cordless telephone handsets.

I²C serial EEPROM can store preset information in an MP3 player or large LCD display, where PAL or NTSC settings during manufacture are set using I²C DIP switches. For environmental sensing, I²C temperature sensors can monitor local temperatures: particularly important in wireless basestations, where I²C repeaters / hubs / extenders are also used, to isolate capacitance from the backplane.