Find out more about ROM and learn new things about it. ROM refers to Read Only Memory. Read-only memory (ROM) is a means of storage. It stores data on personal computers (PCs) and other electronic devices permanently.

What is ROM

Read only memory (ROM) contains the programming needed to start a PC, which is essential for boot-up; it performs significant input and output activities and stores programs or software instructions. Because ROM is read-only, it cannot be changed. By contrast, random access memory (RAM) is volatile.

ROM is run by a small battery in the computer. However, this little battery has a long battery life. ROM has two components:

• The Decoder: Receives binary inputs and sends out decimal equivalent outputs.
• The OR Logic Gates: Turns the system on and off by using a grid of columns and rows. The decimal output of the decoder is used as OR logic gates‘ input. It also uses diodes to connect elements. However, the contents of the components must be.

There are many ROM chips located on the motherboard. However, a few are on the expansion boards. The basic input/output system or BIOS need the chips. And likewise, boot up. Furthermore, for reading and writing to peripheral devices. Also for critical data management and the software for basic processes for specific utilities.

Advantages of ROM

• Non-volatile
• More accessible to the interface than RAMs
• ROM cannot be changed, even unintentionally
• Easy testable
• ROM reliability is better than that of RAMs
• They are static and therefore do not need refreshing

Types of Programmable ROM

• Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM)
• Electrically Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM)
• The Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM, also called Flash ROM)
• Electrically Alterable Read-Only Memory (EAROM)

Explaining Read Only Memory (ROM)

ROM cannot be changed and is read-only. ROM supplies the needed instructions on how a device communicates with various hardware components. Moreover, the firmware includes BIOS, erasable programmable ROM (EPROM) and the ROM configurations for software.

• Ultraviolet-erasable ROM (UV-ROM) – These refer to ROM with erasable contents. Furthermore, this is possible with the use of ultraviolet light. 
• Erasable programmable ROM (EPROM) – This type of ROM is programmed with use high voltages. And at the same time a 20-minute exposure to ultraviolet light.
• Electrically-erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM) – This type is commonly applied in older computer chips. Erasing and also reprogramming EEPROM several times is possible. An example of an updated version of EEPROM is Flash Memory. Moreover, it is capable of changing numerous memory locations at the same time.

Wrapping Up

Read-only memory is a way of storing media that are devices and likewise computers. Likewise, every non-volatile computer requires some form of mutable memory to record changes in its state as it executes.

Majority of computers incorporate a minimal amount of ROM. That comprises the firmware. The BIOS software consists of code that instructs the boot-up processes for the network — such as loading the operating system (OS) into the random access memory (RAM) or running hardware diagnostics. And consequently, for updating the firmware.