ROM terminology — assess the statement: “Storing a binary word into a ROM device is called burning in.”

Introduction / Context:
ROM technologies (mask ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, Flash) use specific terms for writing data into the nonvolatile array. Separately, electronics manufacturing uses “burn-in” to mean stress testing under elevated conditions. This question checks whether “burning in” is the correct phrase for programming ROM.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The operation is storing a binary word into a ROM location.
• General ROM programming terminology is intended.
• Ignore vendor-specific marketing terms.

Concept / Approach:
The correct, widely used term is “programming” a ROM (or PROM/EPROM/EEPROM/Flash). For older PROM/EPROM devices, engineers colloquially say “burning a ROM” or “burning an EPROM,” but that is distinct from “burn-in.” “Burn-in” refers to reliability screening where components are operated at elevated temperature/voltage to precipitate early-life failures. Thus, the statement confusing programming with burn-in is incorrect.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Device datasheets and programmer manuals consistently use “Program,” “Verify,” and “Erase” cycles; production test procedures separately describe “burn-in” for reliability assurance.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Correct: Merges unrelated terminology.
• Only correct for EPROMs / during wafer probe: EPROM programming still uses “program”; wafer probe is test, not programming nomenclature.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing slang “burn a PROM” with the formal “burn-in.” The former is casual jargon for programming; the latter is a stress-screening process.

Final Answer:
Incorrect — writing data to ROM is “programming”; “burn-in” is a reliability test, not a programming step.