What is the role of the EEPROM on a hard drive PCB?

The EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) on a hard drive PCB is used to store firmware that controls the operation of the hard drive. The firmware stored on the EEPROM is responsible for managing the data stored on the hard drive, as well as controlling the interactions between the hard drive and the computer's operating system. The EEPROM is a type of non-volatile memory, meaning that it retains data even when power is removed. The EEPROM is an essential component for the performance and functionality of the hard drive, as it allows for efficient storage and retrieval of firmware data.