An Atheros chipset consists of an integral CPU, ROM and proprietary circuitry. The CPU requires a minimum amount of external SDRAM to execute runtime software and store runtime configuration parameters. The INT6000™ chipset also requires a minimum amount of external flash memory in order to start. The INT6300™ can use external flash memory in the same way as the INT6000™ or it can use a local host processor as surrogate flash memory.

On startup, the SDRAM memory controller must be configured before runtime firmware and parameters are loaded. On the INT6000™, runtime firmware and configuration parameters must be loaded from external flash memory. On the INT6300™, it may be loaded from external flash memory or from a external host processor. Runtime firmware determines device capability. Runtime configuration parameters determine device network identity and personality.

The following sections identify and describe firmware related components and discuss some of the routine actions required to manage them. Consult the Atheros HomePlug AV Hardware Technical Reference Manual and HomePlug AV Firmware Technical Reference Manual for more information.