Firmware Update

Firmware Update
I have come across situations where a new firmware update comes and the call center and service center are flooded with queries. This month tip is in the hope of clearing those doubts about the same and give a consolidate overview of firmware update.

So let’s start our discussion with understanding what is the meaning of firmware?
"Firmware," is the background programming that runs the machine, it is referred to the programs that help a device do what it's supposed to do.

Why does firmware need to be updated?
Sometimes the manufacturer makes improvements to the firmware that runs the device. These improvements which come for these devices come in the form of firmware update.

Most of the gadget we use today is as much a computer as it is an audio or video device. As such, these improvements are released as firmware updates. We can expect to see firmware updates for everything from our camera to a mobile phone to our computers etc.

Here is an example to illustrate the importance of firmware updates:
Canon has improved the EOS-1D's firmware and driver software for better performance and greater functionality. We urge EOS-1D owners to install Firmware Update 1.4.0 together with the latest versions of the EOS-1D driver software in order to utilize the following new features:

1. Noise reduction tone curve settings are added to the EOS-1D's monitor menu.
2. Continuous shooting is supported with Remote Capture 2.5 or higher.
3. Exif 2.2 is supported.
4. Windows XP is supported. (Direct connect support via WIA 4.5)
5. Camera settings metadata has been modified.

The same thing goes for software updates, and we're all probably more familiar with those. Our computers constantly check for updates for the programs we run new versions of video players or iTunes.

Where do the updates come from?

These updates tend to come from places like:

• Manufacturers — Firmware updates usually come from the manufacturer of the product.
• Software providers — Sometimes other companies might release updates for the software that an item is using, such as when Adobe releases an update for its Flash player, which many of us use for watching Internet videos on our computers or tablets.
• Firmware (Hacking) — Sometimes third parties create an unofficial new or modified ("aftermarket") version of firmware to provide new features or to unlock hidden functionality.
• Most firmware hacks are free and open source software as well.
• These hacks usually take advantage of the firmware update facility on many devices to install or run themselves. Some, however, must resort to exploits in order to run, because the manufacturer has attempted to lock the hardware to stop it from running unlicensed code.
• The biggest disadvantage is that if anything goes wrong with the device the manufacturer treats it out of warranty.

How do I apply the update?

Updating the gadget can be with or without using computer. If your television, Blu-ray player, or game consoles are connected to the Internet, then updating them can be this easy too. It'll depend on the specific equipment and availability of the updates, of course.

For camera, you will typically download the firmware update to your computer and then transfer it to your device through USB or SD card. Simply load the update via USB or SD card input, and it should take care of itself from there. Read the manufacturer's website for the specifics of your equipment.

For your Canon camera please visit the following link for any new firm wear update:

http://support-in.canon-asia.com/index.jsp?fuseaction=support&prod_type=firmware

A caution about applying updates

Before applying an update, especially in the case of firmware, you need to make sure that the update is for your exact model of device. 

Applying an update intended for a similar-but-different model could result in your gadget becoming non-operational. 

The old firmware gets overwritten (replaced) by new operating instructions that aren't compatible with your model, which means your device won't work anymore. That's referred to as "bricking" your gadget.

I hope this tip was useful for you. So next time always double check those model numbers before applying a firmware updated articles and videos.

How do I find out about updates?

There are three things you can do to stay abreast of firmware updates.

• The best way to make sure you're alerted to important updates for your device is to register your purchase with the manufacturer.
• The other way to keep on top of updates is to occasionally visit the manufacturer's website and look up your equipment model or a list of released firmware updates. This might be the only way to learn about updates for minor issues.
• If you really like your gadget, join a photography community online or social media feed dedicated to that brand or device. Hanging out with other users is sure to keep you informed about any changes.

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