Downloading Partitions To The Terminal; Ipl; Partition Update Vs. File Update - Symbol PDT 8100 Series Product Reference Manual

PDT 8100 Series with Windows Mobile 2003 Software for Pocket PCs Product Reference Guide
Note: 8 bits per pixel only applies to splash screen images. Once Windows
CE is running, the color density is 16 bits per pixel.
• IPL: This program interfaces with the host computer and allows downloading via
cradle or serial cable any or all of the partitions listed above, as well as updated
versions of IPL. Use caution downloading updated IPL versions; incorrect
downloading of an IPL causes permanent damage to the mobile computer. IPL is
mandatory for the mobile computer.
• Partition Table: Identifies where each partition is loaded in the mobile computer.

Downloading Partitions to the Terminal

TCM is used to specify a hex destination file for each partition and download each file to
the terminal. This download requires a program loader stored on the terminal. The terminal
comes with a program loading utility, Initial Program Loader (IPL), stored in the terminal's
write-protected flash.

IPL

IPL allows the user to upgrade the mobile computer with software updates and/or feature
enhancements.

Partition Update vs. File Update

There are two types of update supported by the mobile computer: partitions and files. The
file system used by the mobile computer is the same as the file system used on a desktop
computer. A file is a unit of data that can be accessed using a file name and a location in
the file system. When a file is replaced, only the contents of the previous file are erased.
The operating system must be running for a file to be updated, so the IPL cannot perform
individual file updates as it is a stand-alone program that does not require the operating
system to be running.
A typical partition is a group of files, combined into a single "partition" that represents a
specific area of storage. Examples of partitions are the flash file systems such as Platform
or Application. (Using the desktop computer comparison, these partitions are roughly
equivalent to a C: or D: hard disk drive.) In addition to the "hard disk" partitions, some
partitions are used for single items such as the operating system, monitor, or splash screen.
(Again using a desktop computer comparison, these partitions are roughly the equivalent
of the BIOS or special hidden system files.) When a partition is updated, all data that was
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