Computer Exam Support - What is Read Only Memory (ROM) in Computer? Explain the Types of ROM?

What is Read Only Memory (ROM) in Computer? Explain the Types of ROM?

ROM is built-in computer memory containing data that normally can only be read, not written to ROM contains the programming that allows your computer to be “boosted up” or computer’s random access memory (RAM), the data in ROM is not lost when the computer power is turned off. The ROM is sustained by a small long-life battery in your computer.

ROMs are used for various memory applications, such as fixed program storage, look-up tables, and code conversions. The programs on the ROM are actually more hardware than software; therefore, they are often referred to as firmware (Microcode stored in read only memory). ROM has all the operational characteristics of read/write memories except that data cannot be written into ROM addresses by the normal computer accessing methods (write request). We can only read and /or execute the contents of each ROM memory address. The contents of the ROM addresses can be used over and over again without alteration, and the data does not have to be written back into ROM.

• It is a non-volatile (Retains its content when the power is turned off) memory
• It is a “Built – in” memory
• Programmed at factory
• The contents of this memory are permanent
• These are cost-effective
• They are often referred to as firmware (the program which is as permanent as hardware and stored as in ROM is known as firmware)
• They are available in high storage capacity
• Processing speed is very low
• Generally, the OS supporting programmers and the basic input output system (BIOS) programs are stored in this
• BIOS are stored on flash memory chip
• In PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory), the flexibility of data alteration is also provided.

Types of ROM

1. PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) = Can be program by using special equipment/special device
2. EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) = Reprogram and erased with ultraviolet ray
3. EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) = Uses electric charge or electric voltage
4. EAPROM (Electrically Alterable Programmable Read Only Memory) = Uses electric charge to alter the value

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