Different Types of ROM

ROM (read-only memory), and flash memory are examples of non-volatile memory. Whereas volatile memory is a temporary memory. In this memory, the data is stored till the system is capable of, but once the power of the system is turned off the data within the volatile memory is deleted automatically.

What is ROM?

ROM is a nonvolatile storage media used in computer systems and other electronic devices Its main purpose is to store data that can only be read and not changed, making it easier for different hardware components to communicate with one another. A particular kind of storage material called read-only memory(ROM) is frequently employed in personal computers and other electronic devices to store data permanently.

Different Types of ROM

Below are three types of ROM. Let’s discuss in detail.

1. Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory(EEPROM)

EEPROM, allows data to be evacuated without the need for UV radiation by using an electric field. Erasing a chip is limited to specific regions. Writing new data or erasing old data does not involve removing the EEPROM from the device. Data is uploaded into and removed from EEPROMs using electric current.

Advantages of EEPROM

• EEPROM does not need of removed from the device to write new data or erase existing data.
• Data may be erased and rewritten indefinitely using EEPROM technology.
• Electric current is used to upload and erase EEPROM data.
• It is possible to erase data from the EEPROM chip byte by byte.

Disadvantages of EEPROM

• In EEPROM, Different voltages are needed for operations, including recording and erasing data from memory chips.
• Compared to other ROM chips, EEPROM is more costly.
• EEPROM often has a finite capacity, and updating it might be costly or challenging.
• Data stored on EEPROMs has a finite lifespan.

2. Mask ROM

Mask ROM is a type of read-only memory(ROM) whose capacity are programmed by the integrated circuit manufacturer. The memory are furnished by the customer to the device manufacturer. Mask ROM is not able to allow the user to alter the data contained therein, much like other forms of ROM.It is possible to erase data from the Mask ROM chip byte by byte.

Advantages of Mask ROM

• The cost of mask ROM is its primary benefit. Compared to all other semiconductor memory types, mask ROM was the most compact kind per bit.
• You may use UV light to remove data from it. Wipe off all of the prior info to reprogram it.
• The user may program it. The information and instructions therein are unchangeable once coded.
• It is possible to erase data from the Mask ROM chip byte by byte.

Disadvantages of Mask ROM

• MASK ROM has to be replaced frequently and has a very limited lifespan.
• If the stored data has to be altered, it cannot be reprogrammed.
• Changing the stored data when system needs change is quite costly.
• Mask ROM is valuable correlated to other ROM chips.

3. Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory(EPROM)

EPROM is reorganized. Whereas PROM is more expensive, EPROM is non-volatile. Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory is for erasing and rewriting the programming. EPROM is more economical than PROM. The data stored in EPROM can be erased and reprogrammed again by ultraviolet light. Reprogrammed of it is limited. Before the era of EEPROM and flash memory, EPROM was used in microcontrollers.

Advantages of Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory

• In Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, programme be erased and rewritten.
• The nature of EPROM is non-volatile.
• EPROM is more economical than PROM.
• It Delete all of the prior data in order to reprogram it.

Disadvantages of Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory

• EPROM cannot erase a single byte on its own. if you delete a single byte, all of EPROM’s bytes are also destroyed.
• Data deletion from the EPROM Memory Chip requires extra time.
• Changing the stored data when system needs change is quite costly.
• Users can not add information frequently and guidelines based on what they need.

4. Programmable Read-Only Memory(PROM)

PROM has the ability to program it. Data and instructions cannot be altered after they have been programmed. Due to the simplicity of its circuitry, this memory is more dependable. Hardwiring the ROM chip is not necessary for programming. The data stored in it are permanently stored and can not be changed or erasable. It is used in low-level programs such as firmware or microcode.

Advantages of Programmable read-only memory

• Due to the simplicity of its circuitry, this memory is more dependable.
• Today’s market is filled with a wide variety of programming software.
• Hardwiring the ROM chip is not necessary for programming.
• Data may be erased and rewritten indefinitely using Programmable read-only memory.

Disadvantages of Programmable read-only memory

• Data of Programmable read-only memory can not be modified.
• Programmable read-only memory often has a finite capacity, and updating it might be costly or challenging.
• Users can not add information frequently and guidelines based on what they need.
• The programmer can burn undesired fuses by selecting a specific path for the current by applying a high voltage.

Conclusion

In this article we have learned about Different Types of ROM. ROM facilitates communication between different hardware parts. The only thing you can do with the data in ROM is read it. you cannot alter it.

Frequently Asked Questions on Different Types of ROM – FAQs

Why ROM is called read-only memory?

ROM devices are called “read only memory” because they are used to store data that can not be changed.

What kind of data is stored on ROM?

Read-only memory, often known as ROM, is a perpetual and non-volatile computer memory storage.

What can ROM be used to store?

Computer memory that contains instructions for the device to boot up and permanent data is called read-only memory, or ROM.

Is ROM storage or speed?

ROM has a greater storage capacity and a faster access time than RAM.

Is ROM external or internal?

Read-only memory (ROM) is an internal memory.