A ROM memory is that storage memory that allows only the reading of information and not its destruction, regardless of the presence or not of an energy source that feeds it.
ROM is an acronym in English that refers to the term "Read Only Memory" or "Read Only Memory". It is a semiconductor memory that facilitates the conservation of information that can be read but on which it cannot be destroyed. Unlike a RAM memory, the data contained in a ROM is not destroyed or lost in case the flow of information is interrupted and that is why it is called "non-volatile memory".
ROM or read-only memories were often used as the primary data storage medium in computers. Because it is a memory that protects the data contained in it, avoiding overwriting it, the ROMs were used to store system configuration information, boot or startup programs, physical support and other programs that do not require constant updating.
Although during the first decades of computers the operating system used to be stored entirely in ROM memory, today these systems tend to be stored in newer ones. flash memories.
Previously, there were no efficient alternatives to ROM, and if more memory or a program or system upgrade were required, it was often necessary to replace the old memory with a new ROM chip.
Today computers can keep some of their programs in ROM, but flash memory is much more widespread, even in mobile phones and PDA devices.
In addition to computers, video game consoles continue to use ROM-based programs, such as the Nintendo 64, Super Nintendo, or Game Boy.
Due to the speed of use, the information contained in a ROM memory is usually transferred to RAM when it is required for the operation of the system.
