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Firmware Assignment

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achiengemily380
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Firmware Assignment

Uploaded by

achiengemily380
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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ASSIGNMENT: COMPUTER LITERACY COURSEWORK BY REHEMAH NAMAYANJA

ACHIENG EMILY ROBINAH 24/1/370/D/123

1. What is firmware?
Firmware is a set of permanent instructions programmed into a device's hardware that controls its
basic functions and allows the hardware to operate and interact with other components or external
devices. It is stored in non-volatile memory but it remains intact even when the device is powered
off.

2. Explain the types and examples of firmware.


Types
i) Low-level Firmware
 It is the type of firmware that is stored in non-volatile memory (like ROM) and it is found in
critical components like the motherboard such as BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) and
UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface).

ii) High-level Firmware


 This is the type of firmware that is stored in flash memory, allowing updates and modifications.
It is more complex than low-level firmware, managing higher-level functions. It is found in
devices like smart appliances and gaming consoles.

iii) Subsystem Firmware


 This is found in device components such as hard drives, SSDs and network cards. It controls the
operation of the specific hardware within the larger system.

iv) Application Firmware


 This is the type that is embedded in devices like smartphones or smart watches. This controls the
device-specific functions and interacts with software applications.

Examples

1. BIOS (Basic Input/ Output System): It is found in computers, this firmware helps the computer boot
up and load the operating system. When you start your computer and see a logo before Windows starts,
that's the BIOS at work.

2. Embedded Firmware: Found in small electronic devices like TVs, remote controls, and washing
machines. It makes the device run properly. The TVs’ firmware controls the channels, volume, and menu
settings.
3. Router Firmware: Controls how a router connects to the internet and other devices. The firmware in
Wi-Fi routers that let us browse the internet wirelessly.

4. Smartphone Firmware: Helps run the basic functions of your phone, like managing the screen and
hardware buttons. Android firmware that helps your phone respond when you tap on the screen.
5. Printer Firmware: Controls the functions of printers, like printing, scanning, or connecting to a
network. The firmware in your printer that allows it to communicate with your computer and print
documents.

6. Camera Firmware: Found in digital cameras, it manages functions like focusing, taking pictures, and
processing images.

7. Gaming Console Firmware: Manages the core functions of gaming consoles. The PlayStation or Xbox
firmware that loads games and handles system updates.

8. SSD (Solid State Drive) Firmware: Helps manage data storage and performance in an SSD. The
firmware in an SSD that speeds up data read/write operations in your computer.

3. Explain challenges associated with firmware.


 Updates and Security: If firmware has security vulnerabilities, updating it is necessary, but many
users don't regularly update their devices. Some older devices may no longer receive updates,
leaving them exposed to potential cyber-attacks.

 Incompatibility: Some firmware updates may cause compatibility issues with other hardware or
software, making certain functions stop working or degrade in performance. A firmware update
for a printer may make it incompatible with certain computers or operating systems, leading to
connection issues.

 Complexity for Users: Not all users are computer experts, so navigating firmware updates can be
confusing or intimidating, leading to updates being neglected. Users may avoid updating their
router's firmware because they don’t understand how to do it, leaving the device vulnerable.

 Limited Functionality: Firmware is often written with the specific hardware in mind, so it can’t
be easily modified to add new features or improve performance without official updates.

 Non-Reversibility: Once firmware is updated, it’s often impossible to revert to an older version,
even if the new one causes issues.

 Some firmware updates require uninterrupted power. If power is lost during an update, it can
corrupt the firmware.
4. Differentiate between software and firmware.

Firmware Software

Stored on the hardware itself (like a chip or Installed on a device’s operating system, such
embedded in a device). as apps or programs.

Controls the basic, low-level functions of Provides higher-level functionality that users
hardware. It helps hardware communicate interact with, like running programs, apps, or
with other components. games.

Rarely changes and is usually updated less Updated frequently with new features, fixes,
frequently. Updates, if needed, must be done and enhancements.
carefully.

Semi-permanent. It remains on the device Not permanent. It can be easily installed,


even when powered off and typically can't be removed, or replaced by the user.
changed by the user.
Provides essential control functions necessary Enables a wide range of applications and
for the device to operate properly. services that perform tasks beyond basic
operations

Usually simpler and more limited in scope More complex and handles more tasks, such
compared to software as user interactions, processing data, and
displaying graphics.

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