What is the memory called that can store the basic programs needed to start a computer?

The memory that can store the basic programs required to start the computer is called read-only memory (ROM). The main function of the read-only memory is to complete the power-on self-test of the system, initialization of each functional module in the system, basic input/output driver of the system and boot operating system.

Read-Only Memory (ROM) works in a non-destructive readout mode and can only read information but cannot write it. Once the information is written, it is fixed and will not be lost even if the power is turned off, so it is also called fixed memory. The data stored in ROM is usually written before being loaded into the whole machine. It can only be read out during the operation of the whole machine. Unlike random access memory, the stored content can be rewritten quickly and conveniently. The data stored in ROM is stable and will not change after a power outage. It has a simple structure and is easy to use, so it is often used to store various fixed programs and data.

Except for a few types of read-only memories (such as character generators) that can be used universally, different types of read-only memories have different functions. In order to facilitate user use and mass production, different types such as programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrified erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) have been further developed. ROM is widely used. The hardware used in the startup program (operating system) of early personal computers such as Apple II or IBM PC XT/AT or the firmware in various other microcomputer systems is ROM.

The characteristic of read-only memory is that it can only read information but cannot write information. Usually, a basic input/output system is solidified in the ROM of the computer motherboard, called BIOS (Basic Input Output System). Its main function is to complete the power-on self-test of the system, initialization of each functional module in the system, basic input/output driver of the system and boot operating system.

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