Briefly, What is Firmware?
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Code which is programmed into hardware components (to control their operation) is called Firmware or Microcode. Microcode generally initializes the hardware - enabling it to boot up and operate. In many cases it may also provide some of the interface between the hardware and device-drivers or the operating system.
Microcode is usually found programmed into modules on cards, adapters, or devices. If these modules are Flash memory, you can update the code rather than having to change the card or device. |
System Microcode initializes the system hardware and controls the boot process enabling the system to boot up and operate correctly; it also provides the interface between the operating system software and the hardware.
Adapter Microcode is the operating code of the adapter; it initializes the adapter when power is applied and it controls many of the ongoing operations executed by the adapter.
Device Microcode provides these same functions for devices such as tape drives.
Key Topics for IBM eServer pSeries, and IBM System p5.
These systems (and many other IBM systems) include a Service Processor, which contains System Firmware and other key System code. High-end systems also include "Bulk Power Controllers" (BPC) which each have a separate Service Processor. In addition, a System Power Control Network provides the interface to the BPCs or other power controllers.
- The Flexible Service Processor (FSP) firmware provides diagnostics, initialization, configuration, run-time error detection, and correction.
- The Power Hypervisor firmware (which is based on the pSeries hypervisor) provides VLAN, virtual I/O, and subprocessor partitioning support.
- The Platform Firmware (PFW) supports the "Power Architecture Platform Requirements+" interface
- The Bulk Power Control (BPC) firmware controls each bulk power unit in CEC and towers. This firmware is model dependent.
- The System Power Control Network (SPCN) firmware interfaces with bulk power for power monitoring and control.
In addition, many systems are likely to have a Hardware Management Console (indeed, it is a requirement for all systems which have Bulk Power Controllers). An HMC is required for Logical Partitioning (LPAR), Service Focal Point etc.
- The Hardware Management Console (HMC) firmware provides platform configuration, management, and services.
Key places for more information.
This page initially written by Dave Williams, UK.
The postings on this site solely reflect the personal views of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views, positions, strategies or opinions of IBM or IBM management.
