Firmware Development Tips

In computers, firmware is a term often used to denote the fixed, usually rather small, programs and/or data structures that internally control various electronic devices. Typical examples of devices containing firmware range from end-user products like remotes, computer parts, memory cards, etc. Firmware is also a relative term, as most embedded devices contain firmware at more than one level.

Firmware is found on motherboards and in myriad electronic modules, both portable and stationary, wherever software is designed to be permanent and not routinely updated. Firmware is the way software is stored in handhelds and other devices that do not have hard disks. It is much more compact, rugged and economical than a disk drive. Common reasons for updating firmware include fixing bugs or adding features to the device. Doing so usually involves loading a binary image file provided by the manufacturer into the device, according to a specific procedure; this is sometimes intended to be done by the end user. With the fast changing environment in software and networking, it is of utmost importance to constantly indulge in Firmware Development Process . This is necessary to level your software with the market needs. The engineers who work on embedded systems development should have abundant experience in both hardware and software systems. A single error may cause huge amount of expenses for the recall and replacement of the faulty products on the part of the manufacturing company. Therefore, the task of choosing an embedded firmware development process must be done with proper care and intelligence.