What Is The Full Form Of EPROM?
The full form of EPROM is Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory.
EPROM is a type of PROM (programmable read-only memory) chip that can hold its data even after switching off the power supply. Such a computer memory that retains and retrieves the stored data after turning off the device is called non-volatile. Thus, one can use EPROM again and again because it’s erasable and easily programmable. Once programmed, a user can erase its memory with exposure to a strong UV light source (like a mercury-vapor lamp).
An EPROM consists of an array of individually programmed floating-gate transistors. An electronic device programs these transistors, and they supply higher voltages as compared to the ones used normally in the digital circuits. You can recognize an EPROM easily by its resin (in later models) or transparent fused quartz (in earlier models) window on the very top of its package. The silicon chip is visible through it, and it permits UV light exposure for erasing and deleting data.
History of EPROM
- Simon Sze and Dawon Kahng, in 1967 at Bell Labs, proposed that the floating gate of a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) could be a good fit for a reprogrammable read-only memory (ROM) cell.
- Dov Frohman of Intel kept this concept in mind. In 1971, he invented EPROM.
- Frohman finally designed a 2048-bit EPROM, the Intel 1702. Intel announced it in 1971.
Characteristics of EPROM
- Electronic devices program all the EPROMs.
- A user can erase the data present in EPROM by exposing it to UV (ultraviolet) light.
- An EPROM stores data and information for a minimum of 10-20 years.
- To avoid accidental data loss, one can keep the erasing window covered and prevent any unwanted UV light exposure.
Advantages of EPROM
- It is erasable and easily programmable.
- A user won’t require another external memory because the memory data in EPROM is feasible to be erased. Thus, it is quite effective and efficient in the long run.
- It stores data and information for quite a long time when not erased.
Disadvantages of EPROM
- A user cannot select a particular data for deletion. They have to delete the whole set of data instead. It is a cause of worry in case of crucial pieces of information.
- You need to keep a backup of the EPROM to avoid the deletion of whole data.
- EPROM needs UV light for erasing data, and it is very rare.
- Data deletion and erasing becomes quite complex and expensive for some users. It may also be inaccessible.
Keep learning and stay tuned to get the latest updates on GATE Exam along with Eligibility Criteria, GATE Syllabus, Cut off, GATE Previous Year Question Papers, and more.
Comments