Types of ROM

Types of ROM:

Memories in the ROM family are distinguished by the methods used to write new data to them (usually called programming or burning) and the number of times they can be rewritten. This classification reflects the evolution of ROM devices from hardwired to one-time programmable to erasable-and-programmable. A common feature across all these devices is their ability to retain data and programs forever, even when power is removed.

The very first ROMs were hardwired devices that contained a preprogrammed set of data or instructions. The contents of the ROM had to be specified before chip production, so the actual data could be used to arrange the transistors inside the chip! Hardwired memories are still used, though they are now called masked ROMs to distinguish them from other types of ROM. The main advantage of a masked ROM is a low production cost. Unfortunately, the cost is low only when hundreds of thousands of copies of the same ROM are required, and no changes are ever needed.

Another type of ROM is the programmable ROM (PROM), which is purchased in an unprogrammed state. If you were to look at the contents of an unprogrammed PROM, you would see that all the bits are 1s. The process of writing your data to the PROM involves a special piece of equipment called a device programmer, which writes data to the device by applying a higher-than-normal voltage to special input pins of the chip. Once a PROM has been programmed in this way, its contents can never be changed. If the code or data stored in the PROM must be changed, the chip must be discarded and replaced with a new one. As a result, PROMs are also known as one-time programmable (OTP) devices. Many small embedded microcontrollers are also considered one-time programmable, because they contain built-in PROM.

An erasable-and-programmable ROM (EPROM) is programmed in exactly the same manner as a PROM. However, EPROMs can be erased and reprogrammed repeatedly. To erase an EPROM, simply expose the device to a strong source of ultraviolet light. (There is a "window" in the top of the device to let the ultraviolet light reach the silicon. You can buy an EPROM eraser containing this light.) By doing this, you essentially reset the entire chip to its initialunprogrammedstate. The erasure time of an EPROM can be anything from 10 to 45 minutes, which can make software debugging a slow process.

Though more expensive than PROMs, their ability to be reprogrammed made EPROMs a common feature of the embedded software development and testing process for many years. It is now relatively rare to see EPROMs used in embedded systems, as they have been supplanted by newer technologies.