What is firmware?
In a nutshell: firmware is software which is programmed on the hardware to monitor, control or manipulate data for that component.
Firmware is usually held in non-volatile memory devices such as ROM, EPROM, or flash memory. From this place and location firmware calls the shots as it consists of a set of commands that control how your i3CONNECT screen behaves.
You can also look at firmware from another perspective. It can be defined as a set of instructions (usually referred to as “programs”) that help the i3CONNECT screen achieve the task it was made for. In other words, it is the back-end programming that runs the i3CONNECT screen.
So why should you install the latest firmware?
To save money
All devices that we use today are fated to become irrelevant or outdated with the coming of newer technologies. To keep up, you can either switch to a newer device that is packed with the latest in technology or you can update the device’s firmware to use those technologies. Great benefit? It saves you a big investment in hardware. So, let's talk firmware!
To keep it working for a long time
While hardware, design and development are the first phase in creating of our screens, the firmware is what outshines your hardware. But, more importantly: without firmware, your hardware won't even work.
More often than not, our screens are running multiple programs at a time. This will eventually degrade the system performance and will slow the pace of operations. So, your first thought that might pop up is to maybe replace the old, (worn out) hardware with new parts, right? However, the other more sustainable (and the better) way out is to update the firmware that your screen runs on. Firmware updates are far more cost-effective and simpler when compared to replacing the hardware. Basically, you extend the lifespan of your touchscreen. A big win-win for your wallet and our planet!
To protect your security
Upgrading firmware also protects you from any new vulnerabilities and bugs. A secure environment simply works better. And the result? An user experience that makes you excel in digital collaboration and teaching even more.
And it’s free
Our firmware updates are provided for free and offer instant improvements to the functionality of your i3CONNECT screen.
How do you update?
When we release a new version of our operating system (i3CONNECT Studio) for a certain i3CONNECT screen, you will have the ability to update via USB or via Internet (OTA) to the latest release. This is known as a firmware update.
Update via USB
When you use a USB-drive for firmware updating, it’s vital that you make sure that the update is for the exact device model that you own. If you apply an update that is intended for a similar-but-different model, your i3CONNECT screen will become non-operational.
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Download the firmware for your display: https://firmware.i3-connect.com/
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Follow this guide: Updating Firmware for your display using a USB device
Internet updating (OTA: Over The Air)
By default, OTA (over-the-air) updates are switched on. In this case the screen will select the correct update automatically.
OTA update will notify you that a new update is available. However, keep in mind it will not be applied automatically. You will always need to confirm the update. Afterwards, your screen will start installing the automatic update and you’re ready to go!
Need help?
Do you need support with any of your firmware updates? No sweat, our Support team is here to help!