Beginner’s Guide to SP Flash Tool and ROM Flashing

Hello dear tech geek.
Even though SP Flash Tool is a fundamental program for Android flashing, it’s essential to have a clear understanding before diving in. This guide will walk you through using SP Flash Tool to flash MediaTek (MTK) devices.

What is SP Flash Tool?

SP Flash Tool is a software application for flashing firmware onto MTK-based devices. While it primarily supports MTK chips, there are limited ways to use it with Qualcomm devices by using a custom Download Agent (DA), though this is rare and complicated.


Understanding SP Flash Tool

SP Flash Tool has two main functionalities:

  1. Download Mode: Writes firmware to your device (flashing).
  2. Readback Mode: Reads firmware or partitions from your device (advanced use).

This guide focuses on Download Mode, as Readback Mode is more advanced and used for specific tasks like creating backups.


1. Finding a ROM

To flash firmware, you need a compatible ROM. ROMs are divided into two categories:

  • Stock ROM: Original firmware provided by the manufacturer.
  • Custom ROM: Third-party firmware created by developers, often with extra features or modifications.

Each device has a specific MTK chipset (e.g., MT6761 for Qin F21 or MT6739 for Qin F22). Ensure the ROM matches your chipset.

  • Stock ROMs: Often available on the manufacturer’s website or forums.
  • Custom ROMs: Found on tech forums like ours but may be risky since they aren’t always guaranteed to work.

Most ROMs are around 1GB in size and include multiple partition files.


2. Understanding Partitions

Each ROM consists of several partitions, each serving a unique function. here is a list of partitions and a explanation for them:

tap to view
  • boot - Holds the kernel and ramdisk; starts the OS.
  • recovery - Contains recovery mode for resets/flashing.
  • system - Stores the Android OS files.
  • vendor - Device-specific drivers and libraries.
  • userdata (data) - User apps, settings, and files.
  • cache - Temporary system and app files.
  • cust - Regional customizations (apps, settings).
  • lk (uboot) - Bootloader for initializing the OS.
  • logo - Boot screen image.
  • recovery_ramdisk - Minimal OS for recovery mode.
  • preloader - Low-level firmware for hardware initialization.
  • nvram - Network settings (IMEI, Wi-Fi MAC).
  • md1img/md3img - Modem firmware for cellular networks.
  • persist - Calibration data for cameras/sensors.
  • otp - Unique device info (e.g., serial numbers).
  • efs - Stores IMEI and carrier data.
  • super - Dynamic partition container (e.g., system, vendor).
  • vbmeta - Verifies boot/system integrity.
  • protect_f/protect_s - Sensitive data like IMEI and security info.
  • secro - Security-related firmware and data.
  • tee - Trusted Execution Environment firmware.
  • exfat/fat - External storage compatibility.
  • metadata - Manages encryption and metadata.
  • cdt - Calibration data for hardware.
  • modemst1/modemst2 - Modem settings and state.
  • frp - Factory Reset Protection settings.
  • dsp - Firmware for audio and multimedia processing.
  • opporeserve/vivoreserve - Manufacturer-specific reserved data.
  • spmfw - Secure power management firmware.
  • audio_dsp - Advanced audio processing firmware.
  • apdp - Anti-piracy configurations.
  • qfusedata - Secure boot-related data (Qualcomm).
  • product - Extra system resources and apps.
  • custpack - Additional regional customization.
  • config - System configuration files.
  • seccfg - Secure boot settings.
  • splash - Boot splash image.

Not all devices have every partition listed above.


3. Mixing and Matching Partitions

You can flash individual partitions, allowing customization like:

  • Flashing TWRP or Magisk by replacing the recovery or boot partition.
  • Mixing partitions (e.g., using a custom system with a stock boot).

However, ensure compatibility; mismatched partitions can cause boot loops or other issues.


4. Signed ROMs

Some ROMs are signed, meaning they are locked by the manufacturer to prevent unauthorized modifications.

  • Advantages of Signed ROMs: Can be flashed even with a locked bootloader.
  • Disadvantages: Prevents mixing partitions or flashing custom files without additional tools (like a custom DA).

Factory stock ROMs are often signed.


5. Scatter File

A scatter file is a plain-text file that maps the memory layout of your device. It tells SP Flash Tool which partitions to flash and where.

  • You can generate custom scatter files using tools like WWR MTK (an advanced topic).

6. Download Agents (DA Files)

The Download Agent (DA) is a file that guides the flashing process.

  • Default DA: mtk_allinone_da.bin (works for most devices).
  • Custom DA: Required for locked devices, such as kosher or enterprise-restricted phones. These are harder to obtain because manufacturers intentionally restrict access.

7. Bootloader

The bootloader is a program that loads the operating system onto the hardware. It includes security features to prevent unauthorized access or flashing.

To flash costom ROMs or UNSIGNED ROMs on most devices, you’ll need to unlock the bootloader.

  • For MediaTek devices, use tools like MTKClient. (Link to a tutorial will be added soon.)

8. Authentication Files

Some ROMs require an authentication (auth) file to flash. These are rare, but when encountered, they must be sourced from the manufacturer.


9. Flashing Methods

While Fastboot is the default flashing tool for most Android devices, it is prone to errors. SP Flash Tool is a superior option for MTK devices due to its reliability.

For Qualcomm devices, you’ll use tools like QFIL or QPST, but those require a separate guide.


10. Learning from Mistakes

Flashing can be a trial-and-error process. Mistakes are common, and every error teaches you something new.

  • Always have a signed stock ROM as a fallback to recover your device.
  • Never flash without knowing your device’s chipset and compatibility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Flashing with SP Flash Tool

Preparation

  1. Download and install drivers: Ensure you have the correct MediaTek (MTK) USB drivers installed for your device. usbVCOM and driverInstaller.
  2. Download SP Flash Tool: Get the latest version here and extract it to your computer. the PIN is spflashtool.com
  3. Download your ROM: Find a compatible ROM for your device (either stock or custom). Make sure it includes the necessary partitions.

Flashing Instructions

  1. Open SP Flash Tool: Launch the program by double-clicking flash_tool.exe.
  2. Go to the Download Tab: This is where you’ll configure the flashing process.

Configuration

  1. Set the Download Agent (DA):

    • Click on the Download Agent field.
    • Select MTK_AllInOne_DA.bin from the SP Flash Tool folder (default DA file).
  2. Load the Scatter File:

    • Click the Scatter-loading File field.
    • Browse to the ROM folder and select the scatter file (usually a .txt file).
  3. Choose the Flashing Mode:

    • Download Only: Flash specific partitions without erasing everything. You can mix and match by selecting or deselecting partitions as needed.
    • Format All + Download: Completely erase the device and flash a full ROM. Use this only if you have all required partitions, as it’s uncommon for custom ROMs to include everything.

Begin Flashing

  1. Start the Process:

    • Click Download (the green arrow button).
    • Power off your device and connect it to your computer via USB.
    • SP Flash Tool will detect your device and begin flashing.
  2. Do Not Interrupt:

    • Ensure the device remains connected and powered off during the process. Interruptions can brick your device.
  3. Confirmation:

    • If successful, you’ll see a green checkmark on the screen.

Important Notes

  • Unlock the Bootloader: Make sure your bootloader is unlocked before flashing; otherwise, the process may fail.
  • Error Handling: If you encounter errors during flashing, feel free to ask for help.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully flashed your MTK device using SP Flash Tool. :blush:

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