Instead of being faced with buying a new component periodically to keep up with the pace of change, engineers have developed a way to keep pace with technology changes by making products that can be updated with new features, without the consumer having to buy a new product. This is done via periodic Firmware Updates.
Firmware Origins
The concept of Firmware has its origins in the PC. In PCs, firmware is usually a program that is actually embedded in a hardware chip. This provides the chip (sometimes referred to as a controller chip) with specific instructions to control different aspects of the PC, without the danger of being altered by other software changes. In other words, Firmware is classified as existing in the realm between true hardware and true software.
How Firmware Functions in Home Theater Products
With many consumer electronics products now incorporating similar controller chips that are used in PCs, the concept of firmware has transferred over to products, such as, Blu-ray and HD-DVD players, video projectors, DVD players, and home theater receivers.
The application of firmware in such products provide a basic operating system platform that allows the execution of complex instructions that enable the component to operate. In addition, the nature of firmware allows the user to update the operating system when new sets of instructions are required to enable new features, or access current features more efficiently.
Examples of what firmware can do in home theater applications:
1. Control or determine audio decoding capabilities.
2. Correct or control HDMI or DVI connectivity issues.
3. Correct or control video processing features.
4. Add or remove Menu and Setup Features.
5. In the case of Blu-ray, add or change BD-Java capability.
6. To correct operating deficiencies due to premature product release. In other words, in order to stay ahead competitors, a product (especially a Blu-ray or HD-DVD player) might be released to consumers without being completely ready for real world use. As a result, a series of firmware updates may be needed to make the unit work as advertised.
7. Other functions as designated by the manufacturer.
How Firmware Updates are Applied
Firmware updates can be applied in four ways:
1. Downloaded and installed by the user directly from the internet to the device. In order to install a firmware update in this fashion, the device (usually HD-DVD player, some Blu-ray Disc Players, or Network capable Home Theater Receiver with a built-in network connection) is able to access and download the needed update directly from a special website file created by the product manufacturer. This is easiest option, as all the user has to do is go to the correct site and get access to the download. Installation after download is automatic.
2. In the case of DVD, Blu-ray Disc, or HD-DVD players, the user may also download the firmware update from a special website or page to a PC, extract the files and then burn a CD or DVD (whichever the user is instructed to do). The user then takes the CD or DVD and inserts it into the player and installs the update. The one downside of this aspect of firmware updating, is that the CD or DVD must be burned in a specific manner, designated by the manufacturer, or else errors can occur, which may result in a service call.
3. With DVD, Blu-ray Disc, or HD-DVD players, the user may be able to order the update disc from the manufacturer directly and have it mailed. The only downside with this method is that you may have to wait for a period of time (usually a week) before the firmware update is delivered to you.
4. Ship the component to the manufacturer and have them do the firmware update for you. This is the least desirable option, especially if the user has to pay shipping costs both ways. However, in some cases, this may be what the manufacturer requires. This is very rarely the case with Blu-ray, HD-DVD, or DVD players, but may be the case with some other components such as Home Theater Receivers and Televisions. Sometimes the manufacturer can send someone out to do the firmware upgrade at your location, especially for a Television.
Coping With Firmware Updates
As with any technological advance, there is an upside and a downside. As you would expect, the need for Firmware updating has it pros and cons.
On the positive side, firmware updates can insure that the product you buy now can still made up-to-date for years-to-come with regards to compatibility with new features or connection requirements become available. This helps to delay the need to purchase a replacement product as often.
On the negative side of the firmware update issue is the fact that the consumer has to have some understanding on how his/her components work and interact with other, and also what some of the "tech" jargon actually means. In addition, the consumer is required, in most cases, to know when they might need a firmware update.
For instance, if you buy a Blu-ray Disc or HD-DVD Title and it doesn't play in your player, is it a defective disc, or is it the lack of the proper firmware installed in the player? The user then needs to be able to know how to access the current Firmware information on their device, and has to go on the internet and search out whether a firmware update is needed and where to get it.
This is not as much of an issue for many tech-savvy consumers. However, for average consumers, they just want their disc to play right the first time, and not hassle anything else. Going through all the firmware update business is just an impediment to enjoying their movie or other entertainment. Besides, how many times would you want to go the Grandma's house just to update the Blu-ray Disc or HD-DVD player?
Final Take
Just as everything else that consumers have to cope with these days: HDTV, HDMI, 1080p, LD, Plasma, etc... It is now apparent that more and more, another water cooler discussion topic at the office will be: "Have you installed the latest Firmware version?"
