What is one of the major uses of EEPROM?

The major use of EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) is for storing configuration settings in devices. EEPROM allows for the non-volatile storage of data, meaning that the information is retained even when power is removed. This characteristic makes it ideal for applications such as saving user settings, calibration data, or other configuration parameters that need to persist across power cycles.

Devices such as microcontrollers, computers, and various electronic appliances often rely on EEPROM to store important settings that users might need to modify, ensuring that these settings can be accessed or reverted to as needed. This capability is especially useful in devices that require updates or changes to configurations without the need for extensive reprogramming or reconfiguration of the entire system, as can be the case with other forms of memory.

While temporary storage and application main storage are handled by other types of memory such as RAM or flash, and enhancing CPU performance does not typically involve EEPROM, its role in retaining configuration data is vital across many electronic systems and devices.