What is EEPROM in Computer

What is EEPROM in computer?

Whenever it comes to data storage in a computer or electronic device, the name of ROM definitely comes up. One of these special memory types is EEPROM, which we call EEPROM. Let’s understand it in simple language.

Full name and meaning of EEPROM

The full name of EEPROM is Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory. That is, it can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. In ordinary ROM, data is written only once, but in EEPROM, data can be erased many times and inserted new.

History of EEPROM

How EEPROM came into existence

EPROM was developed in the 1970s to make data storage flexible. Earlier there was only PROM, in which change was not possible. With the advent of EPROM, data could be erased and rewritten.

Development of EEPROM

Moving forward from EPROM, EEPROM was created, in which the technology of erasing data came from an electrical signal instead of UV light. This made it easy to use it repeatedly.

How does EEPROM work?

Structure of EEPROM

EEPROM consists of floating gate transistors, which store data by trapping electrons. It consists of a grid of cells.

Process of storing and erasing data

Data is written or erased through electrical charge. Special voltage is required to erase it.

Types of EPROM

EPROM

In EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) data is erased by UV light. It has a transparent window through which UV light enters.

EEPROM

In EEPROM data is erased only by electrical signal, so it is more user friendly and portable.

Difference between EEPROM and EPROM

UV light is required to erase EPROM.
EEPROM is erased electrically.
EEPROM can be programmed multiple times.

Advantages of EPROM

Data can be written and erased repeatedly.
Greater storage capacity in smaller size.
Low power consumption.
Portable and reusable.

Disadvantages of EEPROM

Limited rewrite cycles (likely to get damaged after several thousand times of use).
Slow data transfer.
Special equipment required for programming.

Difference between EEPROM and other memory

ROM

Data is written permanently in ROM, it cannot be changed.

RAM

RAM is volatile, data gets erased when power goes off, while EEPROM is not volatile.

Flash memory

Flash memory is also a technology developed from EEPROM, in which data gets erased block-wise.

Where is EEPROM used?

In computers

In BIOS settings, in motherboards.

In mobiles

For storing software firmware.

In other devices

In cars, TVs, smart gadgets.

How to programme EEPROM

The data is written by giving voltage by a special programmer. Users can also update it.

How to erase EEPROM

In EEPROM, data is erased by electrical signal, while in EPROM, by UV light.

Lifetime of EEPROM

EEPROM has limited rewriting cycle, usually data can be written and erased 10,000 to 1 lakh times.

Future direction of EEPROM

With the advent of new technologies, more storage capacity and faster speed is becoming possible in EEPROM. Nano technology is changing its future.

Precautions related to EEPROM

Program only at the right voltage.
Keep in mind the overwrite limit.
Protect from static discharge.

Conclusion

In the world of computers, EEPROM has given a new dimension to data storage. This small chip can do big things and that is why today EEPROM is present somewhere in every electronic device. Hopefully now you have understood what is EEPROM in computer and how it works.