Which minor component holds non-volatile memory?

Read-only memory (ROM) is a type of non-volatile memory, meaning it retains its stored information even after power is removed. It is considered a minor component as it is typically a small, integrated chip on the motherboard that holds essential system firmware, such as the BIOS or UEFI. This firmware is crucial for the computer's startup process (booting) but has a limited and specific function compared to major components like primary storage drives or the CPU.

A. Arithmetic-logic unit (ALU): The ALU is a core part of the CPU that performs calculations and logical operations; it is not a memory storage component.

C. Random-access memory (RAM): RAM is the main system memory, but it is volatile, meaning it loses all stored data when the computer is powered off.

D. Solid-state drive (SSD): While an SSD holds non-volatile memory, it is classified as a major secondary storage device, not a "minor component."

1. Stallings

W. (2018). Computer Organization and Architecture: Designing for Performance (11th ed.). Pearson. In Chapter 5

"Internal Memory

" Section 5.3

it is stated

"Read-only memory (ROM) contains a permanent pattern of data that cannot be changed... A ROM is nonvolatile; that is

no power source is required to maintain the bit values in memory."

2. Patterson

D. A.

& Hennessy

J. L. (2017). Computer Organization and Design: The Hardware/Software Interface (5th ed.). Morgan Kaufmann. The glossary defines ROM as "A memory whose contents are designated at creation time... ROM is used for programs and data that are needed in a system for an extended period of time

" confirming its non-volatile nature and its typical use for firmware

distinguishing it from major storage like an SSD (p. 698).

3. Tanenbaum

A. S.

& Austin

T. (2013). Structured Computer Organization (6th ed.). Prentice Hall. Chapter 2

Section 2.3.3

"Memory

" describes ROM and its use for holding the boot program (BIOS)

positioning it as a fundamental but distinct and smaller-scale component compared to main memory (RAM) or disk storage (SSD).