EPROM

From ArticleWorld

EPROM stands for “erasable programmable read-only memory”. It is a form of non-volatile memory in which the information stored is semi permanent. As in any other form of read-only memory (ROM), information is retained even when the power supply is turned off.

Storage of information

This form of memory can be explained as a group of diodes arranged in a matrix format. The information stored in a particular register, represented by a horizontal row, can be either in the form of 0s or 1s. The absence of a diode in a certain row represents 0 while the presence of a diode represents 1. Whenever a certain register is selected, the voltage of the line it corresponds to goes high. The output lines, where diodes are connected, go high as a result. The manufacturer of the memory chip keeps in mind what information is to be recorded on the chip and accordingly designs the matrix.

EPROM - its speciality

EPROMs are memory devices used in computing wherein all the information stored can be erased by exposure to ultra-violet radiation through a quartz window. The quartz window is installed on the memory chip and can be used to reprogram the memory several times over.

EPROM packages are commonly used in the developmental phases of products and during experimental projects.