Learn deeply about how your computer’s BIOS works

This type of memory is read-only and stores data essential for the computer to function. We can say that it contains the basic instructions so that the computer components can communicate.

Although the most famous is the motherboard’s BIOS, all components contain this type of memory. Graphics cards, RAM, solid-state drives (SSDs), and even keyboards and mice contain this type of memory. It’s where the firmware is stored, which is the software that determines what type of device it is and how it works.

Know a little about ROM memory

We are talking about a kind of read-only memory, which cannot be modified, more or less. the ROM (Read Only Memory) It is intended to be written only once. Although there are variables within this memory that allow adjustments to be made based on some parameters.

The most important thing about this memory is persistence, or in other words, that data is not deleted when the connection to the power source is disconnected. If it is erased, the device will become nothing more than a paperweight.

Existing ROM types

One interesting aspect of this type of memory is that there are several types with different characteristics. here they are:

• Marom: memory Masked read-onlyWhich means that an “image” of the circuit die is created to create the read-only memory (ROM). It contains all the functions of this type of memory until the manufacturer can create it next. It’s a fairly old system that’s not used much today, because it was Difficult and expensive to build
• middle: memory Read-only programmable It is a solution created by programmers to add code without relying on manufacturers and at lower costs. There is a problem that it stops He writes the Data In this memory Requires from U.S Concert programmerwhich enables Write the code In concert, but he a Very complicated process
• EEPROM: memory Read-only programmable It was developed by Intel engineer, Dov Frohman. answer to A little bit of the problems Subordinate middle, such as the code cannot be deleted. This memory allows Easily clear code And reprogramming the chip, yes, after placing it in a device called EEPROM eraser. Memory suffers Ultraviolet light process Which erases the data
• EEPROM: memory Programmable and electrically erasable It is similar to the previous one, but instead of scanning with UV light, it is scanning with A electric current. It makes it easier for programmers to erase this memory and write it from then on No special devices needed
• Mobile memory: In fact this memory is called FGMOS or floating gate oxide semiconductor field effect transistor. It is also often called Flash ROM and its main characteristics are that it is Very fast, easy to program and allows for simple modifications. It is mainly used for Bios for computer

Its function in computing: storing firmware

Currently, computers use a variant, which is Flash Memory. This is a type of memory that we can say is an evolution of EEPROM. It allows modification without the electronic pulses needed to clear the EEPROM.

Often flash memory is also called Flash ROM. They are quicker to access than other memories of this type and more diverse. This is why it is used in computer BIOSes, for its speed and to allow modifications.

It is also used in many other components for storing firmware, such as SSD drives, keyboards, mice, and many computer and electronic components.