The number 0x146 is a status code specific to certain MediaTek chipsets (commonly MT6765, Helio G99, etc.). It indicates the specific hardware fuse responsible for the disablement has been blown. Similar codes can occur for different fuse locations, such as 0x14E , 0x142 , or 0x10F , often observed on devices like Xiaomi, BLU, Honor, or TCL, but 0x146 is common on Samsung, Vivo, and Motorola MediaTek devices.
If you change your tool configuration and still run into errors or disconnects, walk through these troubleshooting steps:
Some scripts claim to force BROM via software on 0x146 devices. Use these with caution, as they can lead to a hard brick if the preloader is corrupted.
: BROM stands for Boot Read-Only Memory. It's a part of the device's memory that contains the bootloader, which is the first software to run when the device is powered on. BROM is typically used in the context of MediaTek (MTK) devices.
While full BROM mode is disabled, the Preloader (the next stage in the boot process) may still be accessible to some extent. Unlike BROM, the Preloader runs from the storage memory, and its access can be controlled by software-based authentication. Some professional tools are attempting to work within this limitation. brom disabled by efuse 0x146 best
When you see this error, it means the manufacturer has burned an eFuse that tells the processor to ignore "Force BROM" commands. This is part of a "New Security" update designed to prevent users from using common bypass tools (like UMT, Hydra, or MCT) to circumvent authentication. Why Manufacturers Disable BROM
It tells your computer: "I see you're trying to talk to my BROM, but my hardware instructions say that BROM is now forbidden." ⚡ Is there a "Best" solution?
Knowing the model can help pinpoint the exact test point locations or required DA files.
The BROM is a small, read-only memory embedded inside the MediaTek CPU. It is the when your device powers on. Its job is simple: The number 0x146 is a status code specific
Because this lock is enforced by hardware, standard software utilities cannot simply rewrite or clear the eFuse. Technicians must instead pivot to alternative exploitation avenues or structural bypasses. 1. Hardware Test Point (Preloader Force Mode)
The only correct way to bypass the 0x146 restriction is to use an signed with a key that matches the efuse configuration. Unauthorized DAs (like the generic MTK_AllInOne_DA.bin ) will fail immediately.
: The security community constantly explores vulnerabilities. Projects like mtk-payloads and MTKClient sometimes find new methods to gain access, but these are not guaranteed to work on every device and require significant technical expertise.
Watch the device manager; it should register as a stable COM port (often labeled as MediaTek Preloader USB VCOM or MTK USB Port ) rather than dropping out immediately. Summary of Top Servicing Tools for eFuse 0x146 Bypasses Primary Bypass Mechanism Ease of Use Target Devices Preloader Crash / Custom EMI Parser High (Software Exploit) Vivo, Oppo, Xiaomi, Samsung EFT Pro Tool DA Protocol Enforcement / Test Point Broad MediaTek Portfolio Pandora Box Low-level Hardware Interface Emulation Professional (Hardware Box Required) Highly Secure MTK chipsets SP Flash Tool (Patched) LibUsb Filter + Manual Auth Bypass Complex (Open Source / Free) Universal MTK Conclusion If you change your tool configuration and still
Some newer security patches (especially on Vivo) are so tight that even test points don't work. In these cases, the only "best" way is using a . This involves paying for a one-time digital signature from the manufacturer's server to "allow" the flash. ⚠️ Summary Table Error Status Recovery Chance 0x0 100% (Easy flash) 0x146 BROM Blown 30% (Requires Preloader/TP) New Security High-level Patch
The history of device modification is riddled with examples of clever engineers finding security holes. The community actively searches for and develops exploits that can bypass BootROM protections. These vulnerabilities, when discovered, are often compiled into utilities like the mtk-bypass-utility , which targets the SLA (Secure Lock Authentication) and DAA (Device Authentication Authority) security mechanisms. This tool works by exploiting known flaws in the BootROM to temporarily disable these protections on susceptible devices, allowing access.
The message is a critical security lock encountered by technicians and hobbyists when trying to flash or bypass security on modern MediaTek-based smartphones (like Vivo, Samsung, or Oppo).