Acronyms in memory devices — EEPROM expansion In embedded systems and digital electronics, EEPROM stands for what full form?

Introduction / Context:
Accurately expanding acronyms is essential for technical communication. EEPROM is a common nonvolatile memory used for configuration, calibration, and small data logs in embedded products.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• EEPROM is nonvolatile: retains data without power.
• It supports electrical erase and program operations at the byte or page level.
• It differs from EPROM (UV erasable) and Flash (block/page erase).

Concept / Approach:
The components of the acronym explicitly describe the device: “Electrically” (erase/program via electrical signals), “Erasable” (contents can be cleared/changed), “Programmable” (user-writable), “Read-Only Memory” (historical term indicating nonvolatile storage rather than literal read-only behavior).

Step-by-Step Solution:
Break down each letter: E-E-P-R-O-M.Confirm “Electrically erasable” distinguishes it from UV-erasable EPROM.Confirm “Programmable ROM” reflects nonvolatile storage that users can program.Therefore choose “Electrically erasable programmable read-only memory”.

Verification / Alternative check:
Datasheets and textbooks list EEPROM as “Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory,” with typical I²C/SPI interfaces and endurance specifications (for example, 100k+ write/erase cycles).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Encapsulated/Elementary variants are not industry-standard expansions.
• They omit “erasable” or misstate the nature of programmability.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming “read-only” means cannot be rewritten; in ROM terminology it denotes nonvolatile class rather than absolute immutability.
• Confusing EEPROM with Flash; Flash typically erases in larger blocks.

Final Answer:
Electrically erasable programmable read-only memory