READONLY MEMORY Meaning and
Definition
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Readonly memory (ROM) is a type of computer memory that is pre-programmed during manufacturing and cannot be altered or modified by normal computer operations. It is designed to permanently store information and cannot be written or erased by the user.
ROM is non-volatile memory, meaning it retains its contents even when the power to the computer is turned off. This allows ROM to store essential data that is required for the computer to function properly, such as the computer's firmware and basic input/output system (BIOS). It also contains data and instructions that assist in the initial boot-up process when the computer is turned on, ensuring that it starts up correctly and is ready to execute tasks.
Unlike other types of memory, such as random access memory (RAM), which is volatile and can be written or erased, ROM is read-only, hence its name. Once data is programmed into ROM, it cannot be altered or deleted through normal computer operations. This feature ensures the integrity and security of critical information stored in the memory.
There are several types of ROM, including mask ROM, PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). Each type has different characteristics and methods of programming, but all serve the common purpose of retaining important data in a non-volatile and unalterable manner.
Common Misspellings for READONLY MEMORY
- read-only memory
- read-only memmory
- eeadonly memory
- deadonly memory
- feadonly memory
- teadonly memory
- 5eadonly memory
- 4eadonly memory
- rwadonly memory
- rsadonly memory
- rdadonly memory
- rradonly memory
- r4adonly memory
- r3adonly memory
- rezdonly memory
- resdonly memory
- rewdonly memory
- reqdonly memory
- reasonly memory
- reaxonly memory
Etymology of READONLY MEMORY
The word "readonly memory" (ROM) comes from the combination of two terms: "read" and "only memory".
The term "read" refers to the action of retrieving or accessing data from a memory medium. In the context of computing, it specifically implies accessing and retrieving information from computer memory.
The word "only" signifies that the memory is set or programmed in a way that makes it unalterable or non-writable. In other words, the data stored in ROM cannot be modified or erased. This characteristic distinguishes ROM from other types of computer memory that can be both read from and written to, such as random-access memory (RAM).
"Memory" describes the electronic component used in computer systems to store and retrieve data or instructions. It can be classified into various types based on different characteristics, with ROM being one of them.
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