What the heck is firmware?

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Level 1

76 points

What the heck is firmware?

Ok, here's my dumb question for the day...

What's firmware? I update software when prompted but nothing else. How do I do this? Thanks....

12'' iBook G4 20'' Intel iMac, Mac OS X (10.4.6),  iPod Mini (green), iPod Video 30 GB (white) 

Posted on Sep 17, 2006 4:43 PM

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Answer 1

Dah•veed

Level 9

66,541 points

Sep 17, 2006 5:07 PM in response to Erin Clancy

There are many ways to get the word on firmware updates. Mac news sites, Mac rumor sites and the Apple Discussion forum relating to your Mac. People start posting about them as soon as they find out about a new one. Especially if they have a problem with installation.
Yes, the firmware updates are Mac model specific. They have version numbers like other software. You can check your version in the Hardware Overview of System Profiler. The current versions for early 2006 Intel iMac are;
Boot ROM Version: IM41.0055.B03
SMC Version: 1.1f5

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Answer 2

Dah•veed

Level 9

66,541 points

Sep 17, 2006 4:55 PM in response to Erin Clancy

Firmware is a form of software that is permanently stored in Read Only Memory (ROM) chips on the logic board of your computer. There may also be other ROMs in your computer that have the operating instructions for various components, such as the System Management Controller (SMC). Back in MAY, Apple issued an SMC firmware update for the early 2006 Intels through Software Update. The general firmware updates are not usually issued through Software Update. They need to be manually downloaded and installed paying close attention to their install instructions. Apple issued a firmware update for early 2006 Intel Macs last APR.
Both updates are available from the Apple Downloads page.

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Answer 3

Erin Clancy Author

Level 1

76 points

Sep 17, 2006 4:59 PM in response to Dah•veed

Hmmm. So how do you know when there's a firmware update? Also, firmware updates aren't operating-system specific? In other words, not all Apple users will use the same updates? It's more computer-specific? How do you know if you're up-to-date? Sorry for all the questions!

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Answer 4

Dah•veed

Level 9

66,541 points

Sep 17, 2006 5:15 PM in response to Erin Clancy

It is best, and safest, to stop anything else you may be doing on your Mac during firmware updates so they install correctly. I suggest closing all programs, disconnect all external peripherals, disconnect airport, bluetooth (use a wired keyboard & mouse, if possible) ethernet, etc. Then patiently install the update, carefully following all of Apples instructions to the letter.
Although they are simple to install, and safe for home users to install, firmware update error is a mess to clean up sometimes

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Answer 5

Erin Clancy Author

Level 1

76 points

Sep 17, 2006 5:11 PM in response to Dah•veed

Thanks!

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