The Difference Between Hardware and Firmware

Hardware and firmware are standard terms in the world of technology, especially in the manufacturing and logistics industry. However, few people understand the connection between the two in the world of IoT. At times, these terms are used interchangeably; however, significant differences are important to acknowledge before blindly investing. Let's take a look at each term and why it is essential to know the difference between the two in the IoT industry.

What is Hardware?

Hardware refers to the tangibles that are combined to create a single device. For example, the processor, the motherboard, and the power supply are all types of hardware combined to develop a computer. For Link Labs, our hardware consists of individual pieces combined to develop our AirFinder devices. Tags, gateways, and access points are all examples of the different hardware that pairs with Link Labs' products.

At Link Labs, we understand that just as it is impossible for a computer to run without its efficient components, it is just as impossible to have a great asset tracking solution without efficient components. Our IoT mission is to ensure that every hardware device is up to date and working to the best of its ability. For this reason, our solution has provided companies with:

• Seamless tracking indoor and outdoor
• Extended battery life by 3-7+ years
• Improved accuracy
• Reduced costs
• Lower latency

Join the AirFinder Difference!

• Innovation. Organizations can be freed up to innovate and bring more impactful products and services to market.
• Profitability. Increased profitability provides new opportunities to innovate and improve valuation.
• Digital Transformation. Discover competitive advantages, new revenue opportunities, improved customer relationships, and increased efficiency.

What is Firmware?

Firmware refers to the programming that is involved behind the technology. Programming is essential because it is required to carry out all the tasks and activities that the hardware devices undertake. One example of firmware prevalent in today's society is mobile devices. While the physical devices are considered hardware, the firmware is what is displayed on the phone. Applications, games, and photo galleries are all examples of the hardware sending signals to the firmware to be displayed on the screen.

At Link Labs, we provide our own AirFinder software that allows companies to track the location of their assets in real-time from any location indoors, outdoors, and on the road. In addition, our firmware provides benefits not found in other tracking systems on the market such as:

• Continuous Visibility

Link Labs provide continuous, end-to-end visibility of assets in both indoors and outdoors environments, seamlessly transitioning from one technology to another, as needed and depending upon conditions. Continuous visibility of assets will be extremely useful for your company because it allows you to stay organized and help you find any misplaced assets.

• Intelligent Configurability

Our system allows full control of update rates and location technology prioritization to ensure the right blend of latency and battery life. This provides the end user with an easy-to-use, seamless experience.

• Improved Battery Life

Our Xtreme Low Energy (XLE®) innovation allows battery life of tags to be extended by more than 400% or approximately 1-2 years. The longer the battery life, the less your company will have to spend on battery replacement.

• Enhanced Accuracy 

Link Labs provides precise asset tracking through innovations in the firmware level. We understand the importance of providing customers with location precision that matches our continuous visibility.

• Customized Reporting

Our software also includes customizable reporting features. Many companies prefer having personal customization because it allows them to cater their reporting to their unique needs.

 Continue reading to explore a few key differences between hardware and firmware!

Key Differences Between Hardware and Firmware

No matter what industry you're in, there's a good chance you can leverage asset tracking hardware and firmware to your advantage. Here is an overview of a few key differences and relations between hardware and firmware:

• Hardware relies on a program to run, whereas firmware programs itself.
• Hardware is tangible, and firmware is not.
• Hardware can undergo physical damage, whereas firmware cannot.
• Hardware requires reprogramming, whereas firmware does not require reprogramming.
• Hardware cannot operate without firmware.

The world of IoT and asset tracking is rapidly growing, and now is the time to begin implementing Link Labs AirFinder to enhance your business!

How Can Link Labs Help?

At Link Labs, we assist manufacturing and logistics companies with their hardware and firmware needs for asset tracking. Our AirFinder solution is a complete end-to-end asset tracking solution that provides the most efficient hardware and software. Visit our website or book a demo today to learn more about how Link Labs and AirFinder can benefit your needs.