custom ROM

[Android Question]

what is the relation of custom ROM to firmware? what exactly the custom ROM definition s?

 

[scary alien]

what is the relation of custom ROM to firmware? what exactly the custom ROM definition s?

A sometimes hard to find (LOL, it seems like it's moved around over the years) is the CyanogenMod wiki glossary page:

Doc: glossary - CyanogenMod

and their definitions of ROM and firmware are most excellent:

ROM

Read Only Memory. In the context of an Android device, ROM is the internal flash memory where the core operating system resides. It can also refer to a specific version firmware that can be applied to a device through a process usually referred to as flashing. An improperly flashed ROM can often brick the device, rendering it unusable.

Firmware

Programs stored in the ROM, EPROM, or flash memory that usually control various internal electronic devices (Hard Drives, Keyboards, Displays, etc). Firmware is typically 'fixed' software that is not updated in consumer devices, however it is often updated (or 'flashed') by advanced users to fix bugs or add features to the device. Flashing firmware designed for one device onto a different device, or not following a specific procedure while flashing will often render the device unusable.

A custom ROM is a modified (custom) version of the stock Android operating system (of which the CyanogenMod custom ROMs are an excellent example of).

Cheers and I hope that helps!