# I2C voltage-level translator

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/i2c-level-translator
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-27
Lookup label: I2C LVL
Drawing use: Schematic
Reference families: Manufacturer

An I2C level translator adapts the specified logic-voltage levels between compatible bus sections.

## In plain English

### What does I2C voltage-level translator mean?

An I2C level translator adapts the specified logic-voltage levels between compatible bus sections.

### A simple example

Two devices with different supported logic supplies may communicate through a suitable translator.

### What the drawings help you do

Label the supply voltage domain on each side and show both I2C signals. Voltage translation lets compatible logic interfaces work across selected voltage levels; it does not automatically create a safety-rated isolation barrier. Follow the chosen translator’s requirements for pull-ups and power sequencing.

### Before using this reference

- Identify both logic-supply domains.
- Show clock/data connections and their selected pull-ups.
- Reference supported voltage, bus and startup conditions.

### Does voltage translation mean the two sides are isolated?

No. Changing logic-voltage levels is distinct from transferring information across an electrical isolation barrier. Use an explicitly specified isolating interface if that separation is required.

### Terms

- Voltage domain: A circuit section using a particular logic supply and reference.
- Level translation: Adapting compatible signals between selected logic voltages.

Concept diagram: First logic-voltage domain → I2C level translator → Second logic-voltage domain
Original functional explanation. Arrows show information or energy roles; two-headed arrows identify two-way interfaces. This is not a pinout, certified standards graphic or complete circuit.

- [I2C, I3C and SPI interface functions](https://www.ti.com/product-category/interface/i2c-i3c-ics/overview.html)


## What it represents

An I2C level translator adapts the specified logic-voltage levels between compatible bus sections.
Two devices with different supported logic supplies may communicate through a suitable translator.
Label the supply voltage domain on each side and show both I2C signals. Voltage translation lets compatible logic interfaces work across selected voltage levels; it does not automatically create a safety-rated isolation barrier. Follow the chosen translator’s requirements for pull-ups and power sequencing. This is original functional artwork, not a certified standard graphic or device pinout.

## How to read it

- Identify both logic-supply domains.
- Show clock/data connections and their selected pull-ups.
- Reference supported voltage, bus and startup conditions.
- Voltage translation is different from electrical isolation across a rated barrier.

## Information to show or reference

- Identify both logic-supply domains.
- Show clock/data connections and their selected pull-ups.
- Reference supported voltage, bus and startup conditions.

## Important distinction

Voltage translation is different from electrical isolation across a rated barrier.

## Facts

- Representation type: Original functional block; not a certified IEC or IEEE graphic
- Concept input: First logic-voltage domain
- Concept output: Second logic-voltage domain

## Public references

- [I2C, I3C and SPI interface functions](https://www.ti.com/product-category/interface/i2c-i3c-ics/overview.html) — Texas Instruments. I2C, I3C and SPI interface functions: public technical context for the named function. Product and compliance details remain with the publisher.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.