Firmware? Kernel? Baseband? AHHH!!!

[Magitronic]

Hey guys,

I just bought my htc hero from someone, and I went to check if my hero had been previously modded/updated before. I found soo many options! (my last phone was a w810i, i've much catchin up to do) Can you help me sort this stuff out,

I just want to know what the title of each(firmware, baseband etc) corresponds to, and some general information so i dont majorly screw up my phone.

Firmware: 1.5
Baseband: 63.18.55.06JU_6.35.09.26
Kernel: 2.6.27-mck-tecknologist-1.91root@neutrino )
Build number: MoDaCo Custom ROM 3.1 Core, SSH
Software: 1.0.0.A6288

What does each 1 do? Which one's should I update? which updates will wipe out all my data?

More questions!
Firmware: is this cupcake? worth upgrading to 2.1?
Build number: im guessing this fone has already been rooted?

your help will be GREATLY appreciated, right now I just drift into forums i do not understand. THANKS!!!!

 

[grainysand]

Baseband is the radio image. It's virtually the only thing that could brick your phone if improperly flashed.

Yes, 1.5 is Cupcake. Yes, it's worth upgrading to 2.1 if you can find a custom ROM for your device. And yes, your Hero is already rooted and modded.

 

[Magitronic]

thank you!