Ascher Opler coined the term firmware in a 1967 Datamation article,[2][failed verification] as an intermediary term between “hardware” and “software”. In this article, Opler was referring to a new kind of computer program that had a different practical and psychological purpose from traditional programs from the user’s perspective. Examples of software include computer programs such as OSes. Applications for word processing, video conferencing and listening to music are also examples of software. A software program can usually be changed out without replacing a hardware component, whereas firmware often can’t.

We still recommend leveling the bed and checking other configuration settings to ensure that your printer is ready to start working on projects with your new firmware. There are a variety of 3D printer firmware options, with some having unique features that are well-suited to exerting complete control over the printing process. Keep in mind, the default configurations are just a generic example, it’s not setup to work with any particular 3D Printer. To ensure the firmware runs as expected, we’ll update the configuration files to match our machine in the next step. Simply put, the bootloader is the locus of process management for the printer’s operating system. This can streamline program installation and updates, but it isn’t strictly necessary for making changes to the printer’s firmware. There are a few options for dealing with printers without bootloaders, which we cover in detail later on.

See the Micropython Hex file reference for up to date information. You are looking at the locations where reset and interrupt routines start.… Read more