Dual Indirect Ram/Rom JUMP Tables for Firmware Updates
Original Publication Date: 1988-Jun-01
Included in the Prior Art Database: 2005-Feb-15
A method is described which allows a standard one-pass compiler to be used to generate code which contains provisions for revisions. (Image Omitted) A common problem with computer adapter cards containing a proces sor with program code residing in Read-Only Memory (ROM) is the possibility of the need for program updates. Unless another means has been provided, each code update requires a costly "field upgrade" involving the distribution and installation of a new ROM module in all customer machines. If the original ROM module includes the dual ROM/RAM (RAM = Read-Write Memory) jump table scheme described here, code updates can be accomplished by distributing a code update diskette instead of reinstalling the card's ROM module.