SP Flash Tool: Download Only vs Format All + Download

SP Flash Tool is a utility used to flash firmware onto devices powered by MediaTek chipsets. When using this tool, you must choose between different download modes; "Download Only" is the recommended setting for most repairs, while "Format All + Download" should be avoided because it erases the device's IMEI and NVRAM calibration data.

What is SP Flash Tool?

SP Flash Tool is a specialized flashing utility designed for the MediaTek platform. It allows technicians and users to install stock firmware, recover "bricked" devices, or update the system software on a wide variety of Android phones and tablets.

The tool works by communicating with the device in a low-level boot mode, allowing it to write data directly to the internal flash memory. Because it operates at this level, it is compatible with numerous chipsets, including the MT6580, MT6572, MT6739, and MT6765, among others. It is commonly used for brands such as Ulefone, Walton, Vertex, Wiko, ZTE, Xiaomi, and Vivo.

Preparing Drivers and Firmware

Before attempting to flash a device, you must ensure your computer can communicate with the MediaTek hardware. This requires the installation of specific MediaTek VCOM / USB drivers. Without these drivers, the tool will not detect the phone when it is connected in power-off mode.

You also need the correct stock firmware for your specific device. Flashing the wrong firmware can lead to a permanent brick. You can find compatible files for various brands in the ZTE firmware or Xiaomi firmware sections. For example, if you are working on a ZTE Z6201V or a Zumm Titan, you must ensure the package matches the model number exactly.

Loading the Scatter File

The SP Flash Tool does not load a single image file; instead, it uses a "scatter file." This is a text file (typically named MTxxxx_Android_scatter.txt) that acts as a map for the tool, telling it exactly where each partition (such as the boot, recovery, and system partitions) should be written to the device's memory.

To load the firmware: 1. Open SP Flash Tool. 2. Locate the "Scatter-loading File" field. 3. Click "choose" and navigate to the folder where you extracted your firmware. 4. Select the MTxxxx_Android_scatter.txt file.

Once the scatter file is loaded, the tool will populate a list of all the partitions included in that firmware package. You can learn more about this process in the guide on What is a Scatter File?.

Choosing the Right Flash Mode

One of the most critical steps in using SP Flash Tool is selecting the correct download mode from the drop-down menu. Choosing the wrong option can result in the loss of critical device identity information.

Download Only

This is the default and recommended mode. It only flashes the partitions that are specified in the scatter file and does not touch the areas of the memory where the IMEI and NVRAM calibration data are stored. Use this mode for standard firmware updates, unbricking, or fixing software glitches.

Format All + Download

This mode is extremely dangerous for most users. It wipes the entire flash memory of the device before writing the new firmware. Because the IMEI and NVRAM calibration data are stored in specific partitions that are not always included in the stock firmware package, this process will erase them. Once this data is gone, the device will likely lose its ability to connect to cellular networks.

Other Modes

While other options may exist depending on the version of the tool, the primary distinction for MediaTek devices is the preservation of the NVRAM. For those using SPD/Unisoc devices instead of MediaTek, a similar rule applies: leave "Erase NV" unticked unless you intend to wipe the IMEI and calibration.

Step-by-Step Flashing Process

Once the drivers are installed and the scatter file is loaded, follow these steps to flash your device:

1. Select Mode: Ensure the drop-down menu is set to "Download Only."
2. Prepare Device: Power the phone off completely. Remove the battery if the device has a removable one.
3. Initiate Process: Click the "Download" button in the SP Flash Tool. The tool is now waiting for the device to be connected.
4. Connect Device: Connect the phone to the computer using a high-quality USB cable. - If the device is not detected, try holding the Volume Up or Volume Down button while plugging in the cable.
5. Monitor Progress: A red bar will appear, followed by a yellow bar indicating that the firmware is being written to the device.
6. Completion: Once the process is finished, a green checkmark (Download OK) will appear on the screen.
7. Reboot: Disconnect the device and power it on. The first boot after flashing usually takes longer than normal.

Common Mistakes and Safety Precautions

Flashing firmware carries inherent risks. To avoid permanently damaging your hardware or losing critical data, adhere to the following safety rules:

Data and Hardware Safety

• Verify Model: Always confirm that the firmware matches the exact device model before flashing. Using firmware for a similar but different model can cause a hard brick.
• Backup: Back up all personal data first. Flashing typically erases the user data partition.
• Power Stability: Ensure the battery is charged above 50%. If the device loses power or the cable is disconnected during the flashing process, the device may become unrecoverable.

Avoiding Critical Errors

• IMEI Loss: Never use "Format All + Download" unless specifically instructed by a professional who has a backup of your NVRAM. This action erases the IMEI and calibration data.
• Driver Issues: If the tool fails to detect the phone, double-check your VCOM drivers. Many "connection" errors are actually driver failures.
• Out of Scope: This guide is for restoring stock firmware. Instructions for changing IMEIs, bypassing FRP (Factory Reset Protection), bypassing Google accounts, or circumventing carrier locks are out of scope and are not provided.

For those encountering specific errors during the process, such as the "S_FT_ENABLE_DRAM_FAIL" error, refer to the specialized Fix SP Flash Tool Error 4032 guide.