Read-Only Memory

storage (ROM) A type of data storage device which is

manufactured with fixed contents. In its most general sense,

the term might be used for any storage system whose contents

cannot be altered, such as a gramophone record or a printed

book; however, the term is most often applied to

semiconductor integrated circuit memories, of which there

are several types, and CD-ROM.

ROM is inherently non-volatile storage - it retains its

contents even when the power is switched off, in contrast to

RAM.

ROM is often used to hold programs for embedded systems

since these usually have a fixed purpose. ROM is also used

for storage of the lowest level bootstrap software

(firmware) in a computer.

See also Programmable Read-Only Memory.

(1995-05-09)