Hardware-driven

Relating to or characterized by a strong dependence on and influence of physical computer components (hardware) in its design, functionality, or performance. This implies that the capabilities or behavior are significantly shaped by the specific hardware used, often requiring optimizations or limitations tied directly to the hardware's features. Systems are designed to get optimal performance and often reflect the nature of the underlying hardware. Furthermore, improvements often necessitate hardware upgrades rather than software modifications. This differs from software-driven approaches where software dictates most aspects.

Hardware-driven meaning with examples

• A game console, such as the PlayStation 5, is hardware-driven. Its graphics capabilities are tightly integrated with the custom-designed AMD processor and GPU. Developers optimize games specifically for this hardware, leveraging features like ray tracing and high frame rates for an immersive experience. The performance depends heavily on the hardware's limits, requiring sophisticated design.
• Early video editing software was very hardware-driven. Performance was directly tied to the installed video card and processing power of the PC. Users required specific hardware configurations (e.g., large amounts of RAM or a dedicated video editing card) to handle even basic editing tasks, making upgrades necessary for more complex projects.
• An automated manufacturing plant is considered hardware-driven. The robots, sensors, and conveyor systems are the core elements. The production process is dictated by the physical setup, requiring specific equipment and infrastructure. Any changes or enhancements generally entail physical modifications to the hardware.
• Some early embedded systems like early flight control systems, or simple home appliances, were hardware-driven. The device's functionality was often fixed in the physical circuitry of the hardware. Any change required physical rewiring or hardware replacement, rather than software updates. This made such devices inflexible, expensive, and less adaptable.