Inside a computer there are a large number of chips and elements that have different types of uses and purposes. Some are better known such as the graphics card, processor, RAM and SSD, although others are more unknown. One of the most unknown elements, but at the same time the most mentioned, is the ROM memoryalthough you will normally refer to it like BIOS.
This type of memory is characterized by being read-only and essential data is stored for a computer device to function. We could say that it contains the basic instructions so that the computer components can communicate.
Although the best known is the motherboard BIOS, all components have this type of memory. Graphics cards, RAM, SSDs, and even keyboards and mice have this type of memory. It is where the firmware is stored, the software that establishes what type of device it is and how it works.
Knowing a little about ROM memory
We are talking about a type of read-only memory, which cannot be modified, more or less. The ROM memory (Read Only Memory) It is intended to be written only once. Although, there are variants within this memory that allow modifications based on some parameters.
The most important thing about this memory is persistence or, in other words, that data is not deleted when you disconnect from a power source. If it were erased, the device would become little more than a paperweight.
Types of ROM memories that exist
An interesting aspect of this type of memory is that there are several types with different characteristics. These are:
- MROM: the memory of masked read only, which means that a “photograph” of the circuit template is created to make the ROM. It has all the functionalities of this type of memory so that the manufacturer can then create it. It is a fairly old system that is hardly used today, since it was difficult to build and expensive
- AVG: the memory programmable read-only It is a solution created by programmers to add code without depending on manufacturers and with lower costs. It has the problem that it stops write the data in this memory requires of a PROM Programmerwhich enables write the code in the PROM, but it is a very complicated process
- EPROM: the memory of programmable read only It was developed by an Intel engineer, Dov Frohman. Solution to some of the issues of the AVG, like the code cannot be deleted. This memory allows clear code easily and reprogram the chip, yes, after placing it in a device called EPROM Eraser. Memory suffers ultraviolet light process that erases the data
- EEPROM: the memory programmable electrically erasable It is similar to the previous one, but instead of being erased with ultraviolet light, it is done with a electric current. It makes it easier for programmers to erase and write this memory, since no special devices needed
- Flash memory: Actually this memory is called FGMOS or floating gate metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor. It is also often called Flash ROM and its main characteristic is that it is very fast, easy to program and allows simple modifications. It is mainly used for computer bios
Its function in computing: store firmware
Currently, computers use a variant, Flash Memory. This is a type of memory that we can say is an evolution of EEPROM. It allows modification without the need for the electronic impulses necessary to erase the EEPROM.
Many times Flash Memory is also called Flash ROM. It is characterized by being much faster to access than other memories of this type and more versatile. For this reason it is used in computer BIOSes, for its speed and for allowing modifications.
It is also used in many other components to store firmware, such as SSDs, keyboards, mice and many computer and electronic components.
