When we talk about Read-only memory (ROM), we are referring to the type of storage used in mobiles, computers, and other electronic devices. It is important to understand the difference between RAM and ROM and what types exist.
Its fundamental characteristic is that it only serves to give access only to reading and at no time does it have access to writing. This means that the information can be retrieved, but it cannot be intervened, nor can it be modified or changed. Therefore, processes such as making Google Chrome consume less RAM memory are obviously not applicable in this case.
ROM memories only have sequential access and do not depend on a power source, you can turn off the computer and the information will remain in it. The content that has the ROM memory cannot be modified, or at least, cannot be modified on a daily basis or easily.
Generating the read -only ROM memory comes with information pre-installed by the manufacturer, such as the ” Recovery mode ” in mobile phones or when viewing and finding the Windows Server product key, being clear examples. I invite you to continue reading this wonderful section that contains important information about ROM.
What is ROM?
The Read-only memory (ROM) has different uses, but it only has two uses that are of greater importance, they are the following:
The first is data storage. People using the PC generally do not have access to the system ROM.
Then it is used to save all those data that do not need that do not require some type of change in the cycle of a product. Such as logical and mathematical operators, look-up tables, and other technical information.
The second is software storage. Generally, in the 1980s, computers had the operating system stored in ROM.
With the purpose of the users they could not modify it in an erroneous way in such a way that the computer stopped working. Today it is still used to install basic startup or operating software, such as POST, SETUP, or BIOS.
This type of Read-only memory (ROM) performs its function much slower than RAM, so generally the content that has the ROM usually uses the RAM to function better.
The types of memory and how they work
Since Read-only memory (ROM) fixed memories came out, ROM has evolved gradually.
So now memories can be programmed and reprogrammed. The types of ROM memories that exist are the following:
PROM
These are a type of programmable memory that were developed in the 70’s by the name company, Texas Instrument.
The programmable read-only memory chips have in their inside that are designed to compress a large number of diodes or fuses.
These diodes can fulfill their function by means of a device called “ROM Programmer”, which generates 12 V in the memory boxes that are marked.
When the fuses are blown, they correspond to bits number 0. On the other hand, the other bits correspond to 1.
ROM
It is the first of the read – only memories that were created, its function was to write the binary information on a small silicone plate through a mask.
Although at present this type of procedure is no longer performed in this way, the operation of ROMs has evolved.
EPROM
EPROM memories are PROM memories that can be deleted. The chips have a small glass panel that allows ultraviolet rays to pass through.
When the panels receive the UV ray in a certain size or wavelength, the fuses are rebuilt. This means that the memory bits are back to 1.
It is for this reason that EPROM type memories are known as erasable memories, since PROM memories remain at 0 when burned.
EEPROM
EEPROM memories are still erasable PROM memories, but differ from EPROM memories in that they can be erased by means of an electrical current.
Currently there is a variety of this type of memory, it is known as flash memory, also as flash EPROM or flash ROM.