Programmable Read-Only Memory

What Does Programmable Read-Only Memory Mean?

Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) is a type of digital memory with bit settings attached to fuses. It allows for a one-time or initial changing of read-only memory (ROM).

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Techopedia Explains Programmable Read-Only Memory

PROM is primarily meant for smaller productions that require some initial programming. With PROM, the memory chips cannot be improved when they become obsolete. That, plus other limitations, has made PROM a somewhat phased-out type of product and technology in the catalogs of some of today’s vendors. In many cases, PROM has been replaced by other methods that involve more flexibility, such as Electronically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM).

A process known as “burning the PROM” blows fuses for bit settings, rendering them unchangeable.

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Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical, business audience. Over the past twenty years her explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…