86Duino Firmware on MicroSD

Although 86Duino hardware platform has built-in flash to store system firmware, launching 86Duino firmware from a MicroSD has the following advantages:

  • Read/write speed for MicroSD flash storage is faster than the built-in flash. The write speed for MicroSD is faster than the built-in flash by as much as 10x. Using MicroSD help shorten the time needed to update 86Duino firmware with updated sketch (application code) and speed up the boot time.
  • The built-in flash supports limited write cycles. Excessive write to the built-in flash will reduce it’s life-cycle. When the built-in flash storage is damaged, it’s very difficult to replace. Launching firmware from the MicroSD reduces the number of write cycles to the built-in flash storage and help extend the built-in flash’s usable life.
  • In addition to the 86Duino firmware, system BIOS is also stored on the built-in flash storage. Frequent read/write to the built-in flash increases the risk to corrupt the flash, which render the 86Duino hardware not able to function. Launching 86Duino firmware from MiroSD help eliminate this risk. In the event the MicroSD storage is corrupted, it can easily be replaced, using low-cost MicroSD widely available in most consumer electronic store.

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