Things You Need To Know About Read-Only Memory (ROM)

The number of gamers is increasing day by day, and that could also mean that there is an increase in the number of PC users today. With that, PC users must get informed about some of the basic knowledge of their gadgets. Well, this guide will be able to help any PC user to know about ROM (Read Only Memory) chips.

Read-only memory chips or ROM is known as firmware. It’s a storage that consists of permanent non-volatile data. Aside from that, it also contains programming information that lets a computer device startup or regenerates whenever you turn on the switch. So most PCs integrate a small amount of read-only memory that hosts the startup firmware. If you want to know more about ROM, here are things to keep in mind.

The Use of ROM (Read-Only Memory)

So what does ROM mean? ROM (Read-only Memory) or firmware can be used in the console of video games. This allows the PC to execute different types of games. It’s also used for various optical storages such as CD (Compact Discs) and CD-ROM. Aside from that, you can also find ROM in peripheral devices such as calculators and laser printers.

When it comes to cellphones, ROM is used as a type of data storage. It serves as a data repository that makes sure when you turn off your phone, and all data won’t be wiped out. As a “ROM,” the process of reprogramming is somewhat infrequent or slow. It doesn’t allow any random access write to disconnect any memory locations. Well, you can say that ROM has similarities with a computer’s hard drive, which is capable of storing data.

The said data includes songs, photos, videos, and especially the system software. A lot of cellphones are covered with ROM from 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, to 256GB. But again, it’s essential to know the ROM in smartphones are considered storage and not ROM.

The Different Types of ROM

ROM can sometimes be called MROM or Mask ROM. It’s a static type of memory and has its data programmed into a circuit. The oldest kind of read-only memory is the Solid-state read-only memory. It’s also a typical example of what mask ROM is all about.

Since the typical ROM is literally a read-only memory, you can just remove and change it to alter its contents. So, here are the different types of Read-only memory.

Erasable Programmable ROM (EPROM)

This type of read-only memory has its program exposed to ultraviolet light. It also utilizes high voltages for about fifteen to twenty minutes.

Ultraviolet- Erasable ROM (UV-ROM)

With this type of ROM, you can simply erase the data by using an ultraviolet light. Once it’s done, you can just reprogram everything you desire.

Electrically-Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM)

EEPROM is frequently used to control the basic input/output system (BIOS). In addition to that, it also controls outdated computer chips. You can also erase all data, and you’ll be able to reprogram it multiple times. EEPROM has an advanced version, which is the Flash Memory, which allows the changing of different data locations at the same time.

Takeaway

Read-only memory could sometimes be complicated, especially if you know nothing about your gadget or personal computer. With this information, you’ll be able to understand further the use of read-only memory. The information above might just be the necessary things to know about ROM, but it could help you out, especially if you’re frequently using your PC.

Well, for your information, there is still more to ROM than what you could imagine. This type of storage medium can be an efficient and effective way to store data. It has also become one of the essential things for PC users in today’s technological era.