read-only memory

ROM

 in full read-only memory

Form of computer memory that does not lose its contents when the power supply is cut off and that is not rewritable once it is manufactured or written. It is generally employed for programs designed for repeated use without modification, such as the start-up procedures of a personal computer; the ROM is used for storing the program used in the control unit of the computer. See also CD-ROM, compact disc.

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read-only memory

See ROM.

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read-only memory [′rēd ¦ōn·lē ′mem·rē]

(computer science)

A device for storing data in permanent, or nonerasable, form; usually a static electronic or magnetic device allowing extremely rapid access to data. Abbreviated ROM. Also known as read-only storage.

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(storage)

Read-Only Memory - (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.