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Aircraft Computers Group Assignment Handout

The document explains the differences between various types of memory used in computers, focusing on Read-Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM). ROM is non-volatile and retains data when powered off, while RAM is volatile and loses data when power is off, serving different functions in aircraft computers. It also details specific types of ROM and RAM, their functionalities, read/write operations, speed, capacity, cost, and examples of their use in aviation systems.

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7 views

Aircraft Computers Group Assignment Handout

The document explains the differences between various types of memory used in computers, focusing on Read-Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM). ROM is non-volatile and retains data when powered off, while RAM is volatile and loses data when power is off, serving different functions in aircraft computers. It also details specific types of ROM and RAM, their functionalities, read/write operations, speed, capacity, cost, and examples of their use in aviation systems.

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seniorfootballer15
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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ROM - Read Only Memory is stored data that cannot be changed.

It is non-volatile and the


data will not be erased even when the system is disconnected. If the system needs to be
updated or changed the whole ROM needs to be replaced because the data cannot be
edited.

MROM - Masked Read Only Memory stores data permanently into a circuit during
manufacturing and cannot be modified. It is non-volatile and data will not be erased when
the system is turned off.

EAROM - Electrically Alterable Read Only Memory can be modified a few bits at a time with
electric signals. Also non volatile and data will not be erased when the system is
disconnected. It is non volatile and data will not be erased when the system is turned off.

EPROM - Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory data can be erased and
reprogrammed with new data through a programmer or burner. It is non volatile and data will
not be erased when the system is turned off.

EEPROM - Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory can be reprogrammed


multiple times. It is non volatile and data will not be erased when system is turned off.

RAM - Programs and processes use RAM (Random Access Memory), a type of
volatile memory, to temporarily store data. It also affects the speed at which the CPU
can access and modify data, which is crucial for the operation of applications in
aviation systems.

ROM - Firmware and other permanently stored data are stored in ROM (Read-Only
Memory), a non-volatile memory crucial for aviation technology, especially when
starting up systems since it keeps data even when the power is switched off, and the
central processing unit, or CPU, uses this sort of computer memory to store
instructions for basic tasks.

RAM - RAM is a volatile memory used in computers and other devices such as mobile
phones to store data that is actively being used and processed. RAM is like a desk where
you put the papers we are working on. You can quickly grab any paper (or data) you need,
but once you turn off your computer (or clear your desk), everything on it is gone.

Types of RAM:
1. SRAM - It stands for Static Random Access Memory. It is very fast because it does
not need to refresh the data it holds. It's more expensive and is used in small
amounts for things like cache memory, which helps your computer quickly access
frequently used data.

2. DRAM - DRAM stands for Dynamic Random Access Memory. It is a more common
type of memory that needs to refresh data it stores many times per second. It’s
slower than SRAM but cheaper, so it’s used as the main memory in computers to
handle most of the data and tasks you are working on.

Aircraft Computer: RAM vs. ROM Differences


Functionality and Purpose
RAM:
When power goes off, RAM is employed in aircraft computers as volatile memory
because it loses data. It's really important for the temporary storage of data during flight
operations as it works dynamically with incoming data from flight systems and sensors.
Main Purpose: RAM is used for upkeeping ongoing processes—processing flight data,
monitoring live systems, as well as applications utilized by users in the cockpit.
ROM:
ROM in aircraft computers is a Non-Volatile Memory, i.e. it retains the data even when
not powered. It is mainly used to hold the firmware of the system.
Primary Use: ROM contains the firmware, storing critical boot-up sequences, as well as
other system-level functions that are necessary for powering on and initializing the
aircraft’s avionics and other systems on startup.
Read/Write Operations
RAM:
Supports fast read and write operations, which means aircraft systems can perform
complex computations and updates rapidly, allowing for adjustments in flight and system
monitoring.
ROM:
ROM (Read-Only Memory) is primarily used for reading. Information stored here is pre-
programmed for basic operations on the aircraft and is seldom changed.
Speed
RAM:
RAM's ability for high-speed operations is essential for the continuous and demanding
computational needs of modern avionics.
ROM:
ROM is slower than RAM, but it does not need to keep up with such quick processes
because it only runs firmware for the most part, which preloads the hardware and
software of the system during boot.
Capacity
RAM:
An aircraft computer must have a relatively large amount of RAM to run many
applications and systems concurrently and adeptly process navigational and operational
data.
ROM:
ROM in aircraft computers has lower capacity than RAM, as it is only required to store
critical firmware and data needed for system initialization.
Cost and Physical Size
RAM:
Its size and expense reflect its active flight operations capacity and speed requirements.
ROM:
ROM is less expensive and takes up less space than RAM because it's used to store
critical boot and system initialization data permanently.
Examples in Devices
RAM:
Common in avionics systems such as cockpit computers, navigation systems, and other
critical flight management systems, which require real-time data processing.
ROM:
Employable in multiple avionic units that must carry out well-defined, immutable tasks on
power-up, like communication radios and engine control units.

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