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ROM Full Form

In this article learn what ROM stands for, the history of ROM and how it is beneficial and some of the disadvantages it carries.

The acronym ROM stands for “Read-Only Memory”. In ROM firmware, the software is pre-installed. In the case of computers, this capability software is installed in the ROM memory during the motherboard’s manufacturing process. Consequently, the computer’s different bios and firmware programs are stored in this ROM memory. The purpose of ROM is to store some essential system software and firmware applications permanently. ROM is a tiny chip affixed to your computer’s motherboard.

Table of Contents

  1. History of ROM
  2. Types of ROM
  3. Advantages of ROM
  4. Disadvantages of ROM

History of ROM

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) software is stored in ROM memory. Therefore, this bios and framework will work even if there is no Hard drive in the computer. ROM is also used to program these numerous technological devices. ROM is another name for non-volatile memory. This data and information are permanently saved without a power source. As a result, the data stored in its RAM memory (RAM MEMORY) is wiped or erased as quickly as the computer is switched off. In this manner, the data and information in ROM memory remain even if the device or computer is turned off.

For example,

Before formatting the computer and installing Windows, you must have accessed the BIOS settings. The question is how the computer’s bios software functions without a storage drive, ROM memory is the solution. ROM memory houses the BIOS program. 

The Types of ROM

ROM can be of three types.

  1. PROM.
  2. EPROM.
  3. EEPROM.

1. PROM

“Programmable Read-Only Memory” is the extended form of PROM. It is a sort of memory where data and information are saved with software. Data in such a type of memory can never be deleted or wiped. PROM can only be programmed once. For instance, once BIOS or firmware software is loaded on these PROMs, it cannot be removed or reprogrammed.

2. EPROM

Its acronym is EPROM, or “Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory.” A few specialised programmes can be used to wipe and delete such ROMs. ROMs are erased using ultraviolet light.

3. EEPROM

The acronym EEPROM stands for “Electrical Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory”. Such memory can be erased and programmed without being taken off the circuit board. Modern technology has led to the moderation of this kind of ROM memory. Consequently, upgrading them is relatively simple. Modern computers employ this kind of ROM memory.

Advantages of ROM

  • The instructions required for communication between various hardware components are provided via ROM.
  • As was already noted, it is necessary for the BIOS’s storage and functioning. 
  • Still, it can also be utilised for fundamental data management, storing utility software for fundamental operations, and reading and writing to peripheral devices.

Disadvantages of ROM

  • You cannot change, erase, or overwrite data once it has been placed in the ROM. 
  • Contrary to RAM, deleting the contents of the ROM memory improperly can break the memory. 
  • Some unique ROM memory types only permit the user to rewrite the contents.