Read Only Memory (ROM)

ROM is a form of non-volatile memory.

This means that its data content persists even when the power to the device is turned off.

ROM is used to store permanent data such as the hardware settings in a network card or the complete program than an embedded computer needs when switched on.

Standard ROM chips are loaded with data during their manufacture. ROM chips are used in the mass manufacturing of equipment. However they are of little use in developing the original engineering prototype of the kit.

Development engineers use another type of ROM chip that can be individually programmed namely the EPROM and EEPROM chips. A blank EPROM chip is programmed with data and software by plugging it into a device called an EPROM programmer. Once the prototype is proven and finalized the code within the EPROM is then used to create the permanent ROM chips in the end product.

EPROMs are not used in the final product because they are much more expensive than a mass-produced ROM chip.

Challenge see if you can find out one extra fact on this topic that we haven't already told you

Click on this link: What are ROM and EPROM

2020-10

back to glossaryback to glossary