ROM Read-only memory (ROM) refers to memory chips storing permanent data and instructions.

The data on most ROM chips cannot be modified hence, the name readonly. ROM is nonvolatile, which means its contents are not lost when power is removed from the computer. Manufacturers of ROM chips often record data, instructions, or information on the chips when they manufacture the chips. These ROM chips, called firmware, contain permanently written data, instructions, or information.

The ROM is further divided into:

PROM: PROM stands for Programmable Read Only Memory. PROM is a blank ROM chip on which the user can write his own program instructions and data but only once. However, once the program or data is written in PROM chip, it cannot be changed.

EPROM: Once ROM or PROM is programmed, its contents cannot be changed. However, there is another type of memory chips called EPROM that overcomes the problem. EPROM stands for Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory. It is similar to PROM but program instructions written in ti can be changed or erased. When EPROM is in use, its contents can only be read.

EEPROM: EEPROM stands for Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory. In this ROM, the contents can be changed or altered electrically.