Mask ROM is a type of read-only memory that is masked during manufacturing using photomasks. It cannot be modified by the user and is cheaper than other types of semiconductor memory, but has the risk of data or code errors during production. Some manufacturers produce chips containing only mask ROM. Non-volatile memory can be used for development purposes.
Mask ROM is a type of read-only memory, or ROM, that is masked during manufacturing. “Mask” refers to parts of an integrated circuit, a thin electronic data-processing circuit, that is covered in opaque plates called photomasks. These plates contain transparencies, or holes, to allow light into some areas while blocking light in others to create distinctive patterns. Mask work, which includes a process known as photolithography, serves primarily as a kind of intellectual property protection, reserving the reproduction of the product to the manufacturer of the integrated circuit.
Like other types of ROM, the mask ROM cannot allow the user to modify the data stored in it. If possible, the process would be difficult or slow. Therefore, ROM is mostly distributed as firmware firmware or coded instructions, stored permanently in ROM. Firmwire is especially suited for field programmability, which involves programming into the electronic device without disassembling it. More specifically, this type of ROM is subcategorized as semiconductor memory. This term is used for data storage placed on a semiconductor-based integrated circuit or a chip built on a piece of material that possesses electrical conductivity.
Some users rely on the mask ROM to store the finalized code of their projects. As projects develop, data can be stored using non-volatile memory. This is a type of computer memory that can store data even when there is no power or a power source. Examples of nonvolatile memory include erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Some microcontrollers, or the tiny computer on the integrated circuit responsible for controlling the electronic device on which it is installed, have non-volatile memory for development purposes and mask ROM for finalized code.
There are some semiconductor or electronics manufacturers that produce chips containing only this type of ROM. A prime example is Samsung Electronics, the main subsidiary of the South Korean conglomerate Samsung Group. Other such manufacturers include Japan-based technology companies NEC Corporation and Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
The main advantage of mask ROM is that it is inexpensive compared to other types of semiconductor memory. This is because integrated circuit costs are tied to how big or small the component is. This type of ROM is generally smaller than other types of semiconductor memory, which consequently makes it cheaper.
The ironic downside of the mask ROM has to do with the masking work involved in its production. Not only does this stage take a significant amount of time to complete, but there is always the possibility of a data or code error. If this occurs, the component becomes completely useless.
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