Transaxle Control Module (TCM) Keep Alive Memory (KAM)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mariner and 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The TCM stores information in KAM (a memory integrated circuit chip) about vehicle operating conditions, and then uses this information to compensate for component variability. KAM remains powered when the key is OFF so that this information is not lost.