EPROM facts for kids

An EPROM (rarely EROM), or erasable programmable read-only memory, is a type of memory chip. Unlike a normal programmable read-only memory (PROM), this type of chip can have its information cleared and written again.

EPROMs are cleared by shining ultraviolet light on the clear opening on their top. Some EPROMs can be cleared using only electricity instead of needing ultraviolet light. These are called EEPROMs (standing for electrically erasable programmable read-only memory).

Images for kids

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  An EPROM: the Texas Instruments TMS27C040, a CMOS chip with 4 megabits of storage and 8-bit output (shown here in a 600-mil ceramic dual-in-line package). The TMS27C040 operates at 5 volts, but must be programmed at 13 volts.

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  An Intel 1702A EPROM, one of the earliest EPROM types (1971), 256 by 8 bit. The small quartz window admits UV light for erasure.

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  A cross-section of a floating-gate transistor

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  Atmel AT27C010 - an OTP EPROM

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  A 32 KB (256 Kbit) EPROM

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  This 8749 Microcontroller stores its program in internal EPROM

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  NEC 02716, 16 KBit EPROM

See also

In Spanish: Memoria EPROM para niños