Difference between I2C and SMBus FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the difference between I²C Bus and SMBus?

The I²C bus and the SMBus are popular 2-wire buses that are essentially compatible with each other. Normally devices, both masters and slaves, are freely interchangeable between both buses. Both buses feature addressable slaves (although specific address allocations can vary between the two buses). The buses operate at the same speed, up to 100kHz, but the I²C bus has both 400kHz, 1MHz, and 3.4MHz versions. Obviously, complete compatibility between both buses using all devices is ensured only below 100kHz.

For more information go to: www.maximintegrated.com/en/app-notes/index.mvp/id/476

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