What is Firmware?

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What is life?
Where is life for a human being stored?

Think of firmware as your PCs BIOS. Your BIOS could be called Firmware, but not vise versa. Basically, firmware is a side-kick to the CPU, it speeds up -- and automates processes. It's sort of like an OS, but not so detailed.

As far a CD-RW goes, the firmware would control things such as the servos, CRC check generator, and laser power output. Another good definition, it's like an instruction manual for the CPU. Can it be upgraded? If the firmware chip is of the Flash or EEPROM type. I'm not exactly sure, but assuming the CD-RW is fairly new, it's most likely Flash or EEPROM. If not, then I'm almost certain the updated firmware (on an EPROM) could be purchased from the Mfg.

Author: Eric C. Vogel
Source: Tim Hamel's post on PC-ASK.
Posted: 6/5/99
Updated: 11/22/2000

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Friday, April 16, 2004 07:48:46 PM