Püsimälu

Püsimälu, also known as non-volatile memory, is a type of computer memory that can retain stored information even when not powered. This is in contrast to volatile memory, such as RAM, which loses its data when the power is turned off. Püsimälu is essential for storing data that needs to persist between power cycles, including operating systems, applications, and user files.

There are several types of püsimälu, each with its own characteristics and uses. Read-only memory (ROM) is a type of püsimälu where data is permanently written during manufacturing and cannot be easily modified. Programmable read-only memory (PROM) allows data to be written once after manufacturing, while erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) can be erased and reprogrammed. Flash memory, a more modern and widely used form of püsimälu, offers the ability to erase and rewrite data quickly and efficiently, making it suitable for solid-state drives (SSDs), USB drives, and memory cards.

The concept of püsimälu is fundamental to the operation of all computing devices. Without it, computers would be unable to boot up, as the instructions needed to start the system would be lost every time the power was removed. Similarly, any work not saved to püsimälu would be lost upon shutdown. The development and improvement of püsimälu technology have been crucial in advancing computing power, storage capacity, and device portability.