I remember that RMS’s position is that if someone (!) can change it (eg there is an “update firmware” button), it is a computer and should run free software. If no one can ever change it, it is a circuit. I think that makes some sense.
Many microcontrollers can be set up for in circuit programming.
They might be intended for one time programming in the factory, but solder some wires on in the right place and supply the right signal and it can be reprogrammed.
I remember that RMS’s position is that if someone (!) can change it (eg there is an “update firmware” button), it is a computer and should run free software. If no one can ever change it, it is a circuit. I think that makes some sense.
Many microcontrollers can be set up for in circuit programming.
They might be intended for one time programming in the factory, but solder some wires on in the right place and supply the right signal and it can be reprogrammed.
Is that a circuit or a computer?