Comprehensive Guide: Restoring USB Flash Drives with FirstChip FC1178/FC1179 MpTools V1.0.5.2 Updated
When prompted for a password, and press OK (some variations require a null entry, while alternative modules bypass input entirely). Locate the Scan Setting tab. Set the Scan Level parameters based on your scenario:
These controllers store firmware and vital translator data on the NAND flash itself. If a block goes bad or the drive is ejected improperly, the microcontroller cannot load its firmware, resulting in a 0MB drive .
Create public, secure, or CD-ROM partitions.
The FirstChip FC1178 and FC1179 controllers are not inherently bad—they are just finicky. They rely on the host computer to fix their internal mapping tables, which only MPTools can do. firstchip fc1178 fc1179 mptools v1052 updated
Several reviewers noted that after a successful scan, the drive's reported capacity dropped significantly (e.g., from 128GB to 30GB), which is generally the tool correctly identifying the real NAND chip size rather than a bug. Technical Tips for Best Results
Capable of restoring the "true" capacity of fake flash drives (e.g., reverting a fake 2TB drive to its actual 32GB or 64GB hardware limit).
FirstChip is a Chinese semiconductor company that produces low-cost, high-compatibility USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 controllers. The and FC1179 are two of their most ubiquitous chipsets found in budget flash drives (brands like PNY, Kingston DataTraveler SE9, ADATA, and generic eBay drives).
If you'd like, I can help you find the or specific settings for your drive if you tell me the exact error you are seeing (e.g., "No Media" or "Write Protected"). FirstChip FC1178/FC1179 MpTools V1.0.5.2 (2022-06-01) If a block goes bad or the drive
Try a different USB port (preferably USB 2.0) or an older version of MpTools.
Insert your non-responsive or problematic USB drive into a on your computer. (USB 2.0 provides a more stable connection for low-level flashing).
| Controller | Support | Notes | |------------|---------|-------| | FC1178BC | Partial | Needs specific settings | | FC1179 | Limited | Better to use v1058+ | | FC1176/1177 | Good | Older chips |
: The tool effectively clears "fake" partition information used by unscrupulous vendors to mimic higher capacities. download link from a specific community repository like or help identifying your specific They rely on the host computer to fix
Warning: Using MPTools will permanently erase all data on your USB drive. How to Repair a USB Drive with FirstChip MPTools v1.0.5.2
: A prompt will demand an access key. Leave the field completely blank and click OK to enter the configuration matrices. 4. Scan Profile Optimization
Because mass production utilities communicate directly with hardware registers, security suites often flag them erroneously. Temporarily turn off your antivirus or add the folder to your exclusions before extracting the directory archive. Initial App Setup
Disclaimer: Using MPTools is risky and can lead to permanent loss of data. Use only when necessary and ensure you have identified your controller correctly.