What Is Firmware? This Is The Explanation And Function

Illustration of firmware on the computer (photo: dock. Unsplash)

YOGYAKARTA Do you know what firmware is and what its function is? The term firmware often appears in topics of computer discussion. Usually the appearance of this term is followed by other computer components, namely software and hardware. For more details, see the following article.

In general, firmware is a program consisting of important and basic commands in a system to help hardware run its functions. Firmware is closely related to hardware so that both of them are integrated with each other.

Firmware has a matching of other terms in Indonesian, namely a strong device. Firmware is needed to run hardware so that it can work properly. If a computer system does not have firmware, hardware or computer hardware will not be able to work or not be able to process user orders.

It must be noted, firmware is different from software, although both are related to programs. One of the differences between firms and software, for example, in its use. Firmware is part of the software used to control hardware. While software is a system that connects users with computers.

In addition, differences exist in the amount of memory. A software requires a large memory capacity up to Gigabyte (GB), while firmware is usually only up to Kilobyte (KB).

Initially the firmware was only in the form of a memory that was programmed to be read-only (PROM). But over time, the firmware began to develop until the flash memory was in the form. This condition is even more profitable because in addition to being easy to use, it is also more practical when updating. From the current PROM to EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM).

Firmware is also designed to work regularly and permanently so users cannot make changes in the event of an update.

As mentioned earlier, firmware is urgently needed to perform hardware functions in a computer device. Here are some firmware functions.

Firmware contains commands that control hardware or hardware. This program is needed in a variety of electronic devices such as cell phones, laptops, to traffic lights. Without hardware firmware, hard equipment cannot run and work.

Firmware is needed to run the hardware function, for example when the computer is turned on, the hardware will respond to the command.

Firmware is basic commands on the system. Without it, the system is unable to carry out basic functions of electronic devices.

It should be noted that the firmware is not only on computers but also on the stock of electronic devices that are ad in everyday life. Here are examples of firmware on electronic devices.

The Firmware is on a router device and a firewall consisting of an openWRT, namely GNU/Linux firmware. There is also a monowall, namely a firmware that is able to present important features on the computer.

Electronic household tools around you certainly have firmware that helps the device carry out its functions. Some of these tools include Air Conditioner (AC). The Firmware on AC helps carry out commands such as temperature control, timer, and so on.

Personal Computer or PC has firmware such as BIOS (Basic input output system), UEFI (Unified exclusive firmware interface), open firmware, and much more.

That's an explanation regarding what firmware is. Visit the VOI.ID site to get other interesting information.