An algorithm of extending EEPROM write cycles

Abstract

Actually EEPROM is commonly used to store configuration parameters and operating history information in embedded processors. For example, to record the most recent operating data in case there is a system failure or power loss. This sort of things might require recording data every few seconds [1]. The issue here is that EEPROM works for a limited number of write cycles. After from 100,000 to 1,000,000 (depending on particular chip), some of deployed systems will start exhibiting EEPROM wearout and a field failure might be get. A million writes sounds like a lot, but they go by pretty quickly [1].