IBM eFUSE

In computing, eFuse is a technology invented by IBM which allows for the dynamic real-time reprogramming of computer chips. In the abstract, computer logic is generally "etched" or "hard-coded" onto a chip and cannot be changed after the chip has finished being manufactured. By utilizing a set of eFuses, a chip manufacturer can allow for the circuits on a chip to change while it is in operation.

The primary application of this technology is to provide in-chip performance tuning. If certain sub-systems fail, or are taking too long to respond, or are consuming too much power, the chip can instantly change its behavior by "blowing" an eFUSE.

Another use is to prevent downgrading the firmware of a device. The Xbox 360's bootloaders, for instance, will check the number of burnt fuses before attempting to install new firmware. The number of fuses expected to be burnt depends on the hardware model and the firmware to be installed. If too many fuses are burnt (meaning the firmware to be installed is older than the current firmware), then the bootloader will prevent installation of the older firmware. After successfully installing a new firmware version, the system will burn the required number of fuses to prevent downgrading. This feature is also seen in the Nintendo Switch.[1]

Implementations
Rooted Samsung Galaxy S10e, with tripped e-fuse
gollark: I already implemented it.
gollark: Macron idea: `let` is actually `loop {}`.
gollark: There is no `__globals` but it's short for that anyway.
gollark: Macron idea: `let` is short for `__globals.insert`.
gollark: And yet.

See also

References
  • "IBM introduces chip morphing technology". IBM. 2004-07-30. Archived from the original on 2010-07-24. Retrieved 2009-09-17.
  • "IBM delivers Power-based chip for Microsoft Xbox 360 worldwide launch". IBM. 2005-10-25. Archived from the original on 2007-03-11. Retrieved 2007-02-28.
  • DCC (1989-03-14). "Method and apparatus for causing an open circuit in a conductive line". Archived from the original on 2017-02-11.
  • Rizzolo, R. F.; Foote, T. G.; et al. (2007-02-13). "IBM System z9 eFUSE applications and methodology". doi:10.1147/rd.511.0065. Retrieved 2007-02-28.
  • Speedy22 (2006-03-07). "XBOX 360 CPU Datasheet. Version 1.5" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 2006-03-15. Retrieved 2007-02-28.
  • Port, Otis (2005-06-06). "Mighty Morphing Power Processors". BusinessWeek.
  1. https://hackernoon.com/how-the-nintendo-switch-prevents-downgrades-by-irreparably-blowing-its-own-fuses-884bd3b7a8ba
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