More Information on EPROMs...

What is an EPROM?

EPROM, or erasable programmable read only memory, is an early type of flash memory chip which retains its data after the power supply is turned off or terminated. Therefore, it is non-volatile memory. An EPROM is an array of floating-gate transistors which are individually programmed by an electronic device which supplies higher voltages than those that are generally used in digital circuits. In order to store data in the EPROM’s memory, a given address needs to be selected and then a higher voltage is to be applied to the transistors. This in turn creates a discharge of electrons that passes through the insulating oxide layer and then accumulates on the gate electrode. When this high voltage is removed, the electrons are trapped on the electrode. Due to the high insulation value of the silicon oxide that is surrounding the gate, this stored charge does not leak right away and therefore the data can be retained for several years. Once an EPROM is programmed, it can be erased by exposing it to a strong UV light source. EPROMs contain a transparent fused quartz window on the top of the semiconductor through which the silicon chip is visible. This window allows exposure to UV light during the erasing procedure.

Types of EPROMs

There are several different kinds of EPROM chips at Future Electronics. We stock many of the most common types categorized by several parameters including memory density, memory organization, temperature grade, nominal supply voltage, maximum access time and packaging type. Our parametric filters will allow you to refine your search results according to the required specifications.

EPROMs from Future Electronics

Future Electronics has a wide range of programmable EPROMs from several chip manufacturers that can be used for an EPROM burner, EPROM eraser, EPROM reader writer, flash EPROM, EPROM burner USB or any other erasable programmable read only memory (ROM) chips suitable for programming. Once you decide if you need an OTP EPROM or a UV erasable EPROM, you will be able to choose from their technical attributes and your search results will be narrowed to match your specific EPROM application needs. We deal with STMicroelectronics, Atmel (Acquired by Microchip) as manufacturers.

Applications for EPROMs:

The most frequent use for an EPROM memory chip is to store computer BIOS which is used in order to bootstrap the operating system of a computer. EPROMs are also often found in the development of video game cartridges. Some microcontrollers use an on-chip EPROM in order to store their program. Examples are some versions of the Intel 8048 as well as the "C" versions of the PIC microcontroller. These microcontrollers were built with a window for debugging and program development purposes. The same chips are also developed in opaque OTP packages for production purposes.

Choosing the Right EPROM:

With the FutureElectronics.com parametric search, when looking for the right EPROMs, you can filter the results by category. We carry the following categories of EPROMs:

OTP EPROM

Once you choose the EPROM category, you can narrow them down by various attributes: by memory organization, nominal supply voltage, memory density and temperature grade to name a few. You will be able to find the right chip for an EPROM eraser, EPROM burner, EPROM reader writer, EPROM burner USB, flash EPROM or any other erasable programmable read only memory (ROM) chips for programming purposes.

EPROMs in Production Ready Packaging or R&D Quantities

If the quantity of EPROMs you require is less than a full reel, we offer to our customers several of our programmable EPROMs in tray, tube or individual quantities that will help you avoid unneeded surplus.

In addition, Future Electronics offers clients a unique bonded inventory program that is designed to eliminate potential problems that could arise from an unpredictable supply of products containing raw metals and products with long or erratic lead times. Talk with your nearest Future Electronics branch and find out more on how you and your company can avoid possible shortages.