Firmware development services are on the border between software and hardware, hence the term firmware (meaning 'firm, fixed or solid software').
When we talk about firmware we refer to the set of instructions of a computer program that is recorded in a ROM, flash or similar memory.
The instructions set a primary logic that exercises control over the circuitry of some kind of device.
Any firmware must fulfill three functions.
To provide the system with the fundamental operating routines.
To respond to the usual requests it receives.
To satisfy the user.
Some Types of Firmware
It has the ability to interact with all the hardware and check if there are any unknown errors and that everything is correct.
It is primarily responsible for managing the hardware components of our computer and making sure they are working properly.
EFI, ( Extensible Firmware Interface ), sometimes also called Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI).
It has certain advantages over BIOS, one of which is that it helps our computer boot using only software trusted by the manufacturer of our model, which is known as Secure Boot.
Firmware Levels
Low Level Firmware
This type of firmware runs in ROM. This is a type of non-volatile memory that is used in computers and other electronic devices. In general, it is responsible for very basic low-level operations.
High Level Firmware
It is used in flash memory and was originally designed for high-level software and could be changed without having to replace the hardware with a newer device. It is usually embedded in hardware, runs on that hardware and can be upgraded.
High-level firmware allows end users to apply updates without the help of the manufacturer.
Examples of firmware development
The BIOS of a computer is a type of firmware that runs before the operating system, usually stored in flash memory.
The BIOS of a graphics card, usually stored in flash memory.
The BIOS of a hard disk (and contains its geometry), usually stored in inaccessible sectors of the disk itself.
The software on a CD burner or reader, usually stored in flash memory.
The software of a cell phone, usually stored in flash memory.
The software running a router.
The "BIOS" of the NDS.
PSP firmware.
PS3 firmware.
The Xbox 360 Dashboard.
The "firmware" of the 360 reader.
Wii firmware.
The software running the modchips.
Custom firmware programmed to add new features to a console.
Code Branch designs, customizes and delivers firmware development solutions and services worldwide. Our developers are experienced in firmware development and understand firmware system implementations as well as the optimal solutions for your project.
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