As we have already seen in the previous chapter, the I²C's similar features exist, and one of them is the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI). However, as opposed to the I²C bus, this bus can transfer data at higher rates than I²C, and since it is full-duplex, the data transfer can take place bidirectionally. Due to these features, the SPI bus is normally used to implement an efficient data stream for multimedia applications (LCDs/video), digital signal processing and/or telecommunications devices (Ethernet, CAN, serial ports, and so on), and SD cards. However, despite this fact, it can be used to communicate with standard sensors, ADC/DAC converters, and other similar devices too.

In order to demonstrate the versatility of the SPI bus, in this chapter, we're going to present a simple temperature sensor management using a thermocouple sensor and a more complex device, such as a mini LCD display.