EEPROM vs. EPROM: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 3, 2024
EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) can be erased and reprogrammed electronically, while EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) requires UV light for erasure.
Key Differences
EEPROM, or Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, allows data to be erased and rewritten electronically, making it more versatile for frequent updates. EPROM, or Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, requires exposure to UV light for data erasure, limiting its reusability.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
In EEPROM, individual bytes can be erased and reprogrammed, providing high flexibility for data manipulation. EPROM, in contrast, requires the entire chip to be erased at once, which is less efficient for frequent or partial data updates.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
The use of electrical signals to erase and rewrite data in EEPROMs makes them suitable for applications where data needs to be updated regularly, such as in BIOS chips. EPROMs, needing special equipment for data erasure, are better suited for stable data storage.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
EEPROMs have a higher cost per bit compared to EPROMs due to their more complex manufacturing process. However, this cost is often justified by the added convenience of electrical erasure and reprogramming.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
The lifetime of an EEPROM is defined by the number of erase/write cycles it can undergo, typically around 100,000 cycles, while EPROMs have a longer lifespan but are limited by the need for UV light to erase data.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Flexibility
Can erase and reprogram specific bytes
Entire chip must be erased at once
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Feb 03, 2024
Typical Applications
Frequently updated data storage
Stable, infrequently changed data storage
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Feb 03, 2024
Erase/Write Cycle Lifespan
Around 100,000 cycles
Longer lifespan, limited by UV exposure
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Feb 03, 2024
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EEPROM and EPROM Definitions
EEPROM
EEPROM technology enables data modification in hardware without physical intervention.
The EEPROM allowed us to change the machine's configuration remotely.
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Jan 24, 2024
EPROM
EPROM retains data without power and requires special equipment for data erasure.
We need a UV eraser to wipe this EPROM before reprogramming it.
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Jan 24, 2024
EEPROM
EEPROM allows selective erasing and rewriting of data without removing the chip from its circuit.
The device's settings are stored in an EEPROM for easy updates.
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Jan 24, 2024
EPROM
EPROM is used in applications where data does not need frequent updating.
The control program is stored in an EPROM.
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Jan 24, 2024
EEPROM
EEPROM is a type of memory chip that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed.
We updated the firmware stored on the EEPROM.
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Jan 24, 2024
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EPROM
EPROM technology is foundational in the development of programmable devices.
Early computers often used EPROM chips for firmware.
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Jan 24, 2024
EEPROM
EEPROM stands for Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, offering flexible data storage.
Our system's calibration data is stored in an EEPROM for easy adjustments.
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Jan 24, 2024
EPROM
EPROM stands for Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, used for stable data storage.
The EPROM contains the boot instructions for the system.
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Jan 24, 2024
EEPROM
EEPROM is used for storing small amounts of data that must be saved when power is off.
BIOS settings are often stored in an EEPROM.
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Jan 24, 2024
EPROM
EPROM is a memory chip that can be erased by UV light and reprogrammed.
The old arcade game uses an EPROM for storing its software.
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Jan 24, 2024
EPROM
A programmable ROM that can be erased by exposure to ultraviolet light and then reprogrammed.
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Jan 22, 2024
EPROM
(computer science) a read-only memory chip that can be erased by ultraviolet light and programmed again with new data
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Jan 22, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can EEPROM be reprogrammed?
Yes, it can be erased and reprogrammed multiple times.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
How does EEPROM differ from regular ROM?
It can be erased and rewritten electrically.
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Feb 03, 2024
What does EEPROM stand for?
Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory.
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Feb 03, 2024
Is EPROM still widely used today?
It's less common now, replaced by more advanced technologies.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
How many times can EEPROM be rewritten?
Typically around 100,000 erase/write cycles.
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Feb 03, 2024
Can EEPROM and EPROM be used interchangeably?
Not usually, as they have different characteristics and applications.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
Is EEPROM faster than EPROM?
Yes, especially in terms of data erasure and rewriting.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
Can EPROM be erased and reprogrammed in-circuit?
No, it usually needs to be removed for UV erasure.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
What is the physical difference in appearance between EEPROM and EPROM?
EPROM typically has a transparent window for UV erasure.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
Are EEPROM chips more expensive than EPROM?
Generally, yes, due to their more complex design.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 03, 2024
Is special equipment needed for EEPROM erasure?
No, it's erased electrically without special equipment.
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Feb 03, 2024
How do environmental factors affect EEPROM and EPROM?
EPROM can be sensitive to light; EEPROM is more robust.
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Feb 03, 2024
What type of data is best stored on EPROM?
Data that does not require frequent updates.
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Feb 03, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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