read-only memory

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

read-only memory
    n 1: (computer science) memory whose contents can be accessed
         and read but cannot be changed [syn: {read-only memory},
         {ROM}, {read-only storage}, {fixed storage}]

from The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)

Read-Only Memory
ROM

   <storage> (ROM) A type of data storage device which is
   manufactured with fixed contents.  In its most general sense,
   the term might be used for any storage system whose contents
   cannot be altered, such as a gramophone record or a printed
   book; however, the term is most often applied to
   {semiconductor} {integrated circuit} memories, of which there
   are several types, and {CD-ROM}.

   ROM is inherently {non-volatile storage} - it retains its
   contents even when the power is switched off, in contrast to
   {RAM}.

   ROM is often used to hold programs for {embedded systems}
   since these usually have a fixed purpose.  ROM is also used
   for storage of the lowest level {bootstrap} software
   (firmware) in a computer.

   See also {Programmable Read-Only Memory}.

   (1995-05-09)