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Tutorials - #490 - What is ROM?

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Tutorials

#490 / November 19, 2009 / 1:45 min.

What is ROM?

We've all heard the term "CD-ROM". We've all heard the term ROM used in relation to our computer, but

what exactly is "ROM"?

It stands for Read Only Memory and it forms the fundamental building blocks for your computer. Doc explains.

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show notes

- ROM stands for "Read Only Memory".

- ROM is not affected by a lack of power like RAM is.

- Your computer "reads" the ROM when it's first turned on before the operating system loads.

- In the early days of computers ROM chips had to be removed in order to be upgraded.

- Today there are chips calle PROMS, which are programmable.

- EPROMS are erasable and programable.

- Computers today can have their ROM updated through the use of special software.

- A CD is Read Only Memory becauese once data is burned to it, the data cannot be changed.

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#565 / February 8, 2010 / 1:37 min.

What is a computer bus?

If you're working with computers for any length of time, you're going to hear the term "bus". No, they're not talking about the big, yellow thing that takes kids to school. It's a means for different components in your computer to send and receive information. Michael "Doctor File Finder" Callahan explains.

#564 / February 8, 2010 / 1:10 min.

How to factory reset an Android phone

There are times when you might want to

clear everything off of your Android phone

. Make it clean like the day you got it. Well, you don't have to do it by deleting all of your emails, contacts and notes one by one; all you have to do is know where to look.

#563 / February 5, 2010 / 2:06 min.

How to restore files in Windows 7

If you've used the Backup and Restore program that comes with Windows 7 you're in good shape. If you need to

restore any files or folders

, it's a quick and easy process. Michael "Doctor File Finder" Callahan explains.

#562 / February 5, 2010 / 1:48 min.

Using location and security settings in Android

Many applications, especially those found in the Android Market are more effective when they know your physical location - like an app that's going to

find the nearest gas station, restaurant or ATM

- so, it's helpful if you turn on the function so the Android phone can use GPS and wireless to narrow things down.

#561 / February 4, 2010 / 2:04 min.

What is a motherboard?

Motherboard is another one of those weird computer terms that may seem to have no definable etymology. However, the term makes a lot of sense once it's been explained. Your house is built on a foundation. The foundation supports everything else that goes into the house. Electrical, plumbing and more. Think of the motherboard as the foundation of your personal computer.

#560 / February 4, 2010 / 1:57 min.

Find your lost Android phone with WaveSecure

Each year, millions of people lose their phones. One problem, however, is that in many cases a phone is not just a phone. It may have your email, your contacts, your documents and more. WaveSecure is available for Android phones and it will

backup, track, and even wipe your lost Android phone remotely

#559 / February 3, 2010 / 2:18 min.

How to use HomeGroups in Windows 7

Among the many cool new features in Windows 7 is "HomeGroups." This is a great way to

share things among computers in your home.

You can share photos, music, documents and more. Michael "Doctor File Finder" Callahan explains.

#558 / February 3, 2010 / 1:57 min.

How to secure your Android phone with WaveSecure

Each year millions of people lose their phones. A phone is much more than just a pricey but necessary piece of tech gear: It may have your email, your contacts, your documents, even passwords and sensitive personal data. WaveSecure is available for Android phones and it will

backup, track, and even wipe your lost Android phone.

#557 / February 2, 2010 / 1:32 min.

What is an alias on the Mac?

If you're using Windows, you create "shortcuts" to represent files or folders. On a

Mac, you can create an "alias"

that works the same way. This lets you put links to programs you use in the dock on the desktop or organized into folders without having to physically move the application on your hard drive. Michael "Doctor File Finder" Callahan explains.