Revers, One final word on the MER Rovers:
Rand Simberg <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> sez:
I'm pretty sure that "flash" in this context is the same as the "flash" memory that stores your computer's BIOS (Basic Input-Output System--the hard-wired program that allows the computer to boot when you turn on the power), or like that used in digital cameras. Most of the time, flash memory is read-only (hence, ROM-BIOS). But when the appropriate voltages are applied to the appropriate pins, the "ROM" (read-only memory) becomes writeable, and a new version of the "ROM" code can be installed without having to swap chips. Most Intel-compatible motherboards these days have "flashable" ROM BIOSes, and the manufacturers will provide BIOS flash utilities and updated BIOS programs on their web sites, just like manufacturers of various peripheral devices will provide updated driver programs. It makes a great deal of sense to have most, if not all, of the rover's software in non-volatile memory of some sort (provided, of course, there isn't a critical bug buried somewhere in the code...).
Yes, the Spirit was willing, but the flash was weak...
Ray G. Miller __________________ Turtlelips Productions 4009 Everett Ave. Oakland, CA 94602 MailTo:[EMAIL PROTECTED] (V) 510.530.1971 (F) 510.482.3491
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