What is ROM Explain Different Types of ROM

ROM

ROM stands for Read Only Memory, because its contents can be read and used only and we cannot change or delete its contents. It is a non volatile memory. Its retains its contents even after switching off the computer. Therefore, ROM does not require electricity to retain its contents. ROM is a permanent memory. The instructions in ROM are written at the time of manufacturing by the manufacturer.  

Importance of ROM

1. One important reason a computer needs ROM is that instructions stored in ROM (called ROM BIOS - Basic Input/Output System)execute on start-up of computer and guide the computer what to do. They make the computer ready for work.
2. ROM contains a set of start-up instructions to check that memory is functioning well and check for other hardware devices.
3. These instructions also check for an operating system and load its necessary part into RAM, so that a user interface for example "Windows Desktop" is displayed on computer screen. Now computer is ready to work with. A user now can easily perform work on computer.

Where ROM Chip is installed?

ROM chip is fixed on motherboard as shown in the figure: AMIBIOS -American Megatrends ROM chip.

Picture of ROM fixed on mainboard

Another picture of Rom

Types of ROM

Following are the types of ROM

• PROM

PROM stands for Programmable Read Only Memory. Instructions can be stored in PROM only once. Then it becomes ROM and we cannot change instructions in it. Initially PROM is a blank chip. Once instructions are written on it, then it become ROM. Now we cannot change or delete the instructions. If there is any error in writing instructions then PROM chip becomes unusable.

• EPROM

EPROM stands for Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory. Program instructions written on EPROM can be erased and changed with the help of ultra violet rays. So if once we write instruction on this chip with errors, we can erase wrong instructions and rewrite new instructions.

• EEPROM

EPROM stands for Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory. Program instructions written on EEPROM can be erased with the help of electricity and rewritten.