Intel makes Firmware Engine tool for Internet of Things devices

Posted on Wednesday, April 08 2015 @ 16:02 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
Intel logo
Intel showed off its new Firmware Engine development tool at the IDF in Shenzhen, claiming this new free tool will make it easier for hardware makers to develop custom UEFI firmware. The effort primarily focuses on new platforms like Internet of Things devices and promises to automate the process of creating firmware that boots the system, allowing developers to focus their time on other aspects. At present, the tool is exclusively compatible with the open-hardware MinnowBoard and Intel® Galileo Gen2 board designs.
We’re providing this because of the increasingly fast pace of platform development and the need for capabilities and tools to quickly create firmware for the new platforms. Our primary focus is on Internet of Things (IoT) edge devices, embedded devices and China Technology Ecosystem (CTE) partners using Intel® Atom and Intel® Quark processors, creating platforms based on Intel reference designs with minimal firmware requirements. Intel Firmware Engine gives Internet of Things innovators and Makers the ability to quickly create device firmware without programming expertise.

Intel Firmware Engine generates images based on Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) specifications. These images are capable of booting UEFI compatible operating systems such as Microsoft* Windows, Android* and Linux*. This provides more flexibility than a basic bootloader, providing the same boot flexibility found in off-the-shelf Intel Architecture platforms.

Intel Software will make platform repositories available for open hardware projects at the Intel® Architecture Firmware Resource Center (firmware.intel.com). Intel Firmware Engine supports the MinnowBoard and Intel® Galileo Gen2 boards. This will be extended to support new platforms on ongoing basis.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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