If you're here, there is a good chance that your Tegra 3 device is already bricked. But I am not responsible for any additional issues that may arise from the (mis)use of the code/information contained within this repository, nor can I provide support for it.
@ktemkin / @Qyriad for their work on fusee-launcher, and @jevinskie for their Nexus 7 port of the same. Also special thanks to @ktemkin and @digetx for their help/guidance/wisdom, as I almost certainly wouldn't have succeeded in debricking my Nexus 7 without it. @pgwipeout's kernel work on Ouya allowed me to keep using mine (and retain interest in the device) over the years. Finally, Pyre on the OUYA Saviors Discord kindly shipped me a (working) Kickstarter Ouya so that I could figure out how to debrick it.
GNU General Public License v2.0. fusee-launcher is also released under that, so it seemed fitting.
Last December I was gifted a bricked 2012 Nexus 7, but it did enumerate via APX mode, and I enjoy a challenge :)
The following files are contained within this repo:
- README.md: this README
- LICENSE: The GPLv2
- fusee-launcher: jevinskie's fork, added as a submodule
- nvflash_v1.13.87205: unpatched nvflash utility (from here)
- nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched: as above, with patched miniloader to override security fuse checks
- ipatch_rcm_sample.c: Tegra X1 Fusée Gelée payload to disable security fuse checks (by ktemkin)
- uart_payload.c: as above, but tailored to Tegra 3 (Nexus 7 and Ouya)
- Makefile: Makefile to build both payloads from uart_payload.c
- uart_payload.lds: linker script to build payloads from uart_payload.c
Nexus 7: - bootloader-grouper-4.23.img: unpatched 2012 Nexus 7 WiFi "grouper" bootloader
- bootloader-grouper-4.23_uart.img: as above, with UART output patched in
- uart_print.c: source of UART print function patched into bootloader-grouper-4.23_uart.img
- nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin: BCT dumped from "grouper" using nvflash
- uart_payload_n7.bin: precompiled version of uart_payload.c
- n7_uart.jpg: annotated image of PCB showing UARTA pinout
- n7_uart_schematic.jpg: excerpt of ME370T schematic showing debug header pinout
- n7_uart_context.jpg: picture of opened tablet showing context of header location
- flash.cfg: partition config file for nvflash. Technically for the 16GB Nexus 7, but sufficient on Ouya for relevant steps in the Ouya Debrick section
Ouya: - ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20.bin: decrypted fastboot bootloader, dumped with nvflash
- ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20_sigcheck_disabled.bin: as above, but with signature check disabled allowing flashing of unsigned bootloader to eMMC
- ouya_rev_1.01_bct.bin: BCT dumped via nvflash and decrypted
- uart_payload_ouya.bin: precompiled version of uart_payload.c
- ouya_apx_glitch.jpg: annotated image of PCB showing how to force APX mode
- ouya_apx_alternate_method.jpg: annotated image of PCB showing showing an alternate method to force APX mode
- recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.8-ouya.img: ClockworkMod Recovery
More detailed descriptions of the files can be found if you check their git history, for example nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched's.
In the months it took me to finally put this repo together after working through this between February and March of 2020, an alternate method was posted to XDA Developers tailored to the Nexus 7.
The following are a couple guides based on this, the first link being the original:
- Unbrick Nexus 7 with another Tegra 3 Device by Jirmd
- [TUTORIAL] How to unbrick Nexus 7 without blob.bin (REQUIRES ANOTHER NEXUS 7 2012) by enderzip
It also uses @jevinskie's fusee-launcher fork, but to grab the SBK using their dump-sbk-via-usb.S payload.
The cavaet is that at least at the moment it appears to require another working device to generate the blobs.
That method is not covered here, but is probably worth trying if the steps detailed here don't work for you.
Before attempting any of this, be sure that your tablet isn't recoverable via other means. A dead/low battery can sometimes be worked around by plugging it in to a charger and holding down the power button for 30s. Leaving it hooked up to a charger for some time (30+ minutes) can also get them to respond again. Unlike the Ouya, a bad kernel flash is recoverable by forcing the tablet into fastboot recovery with a button combo. Holding the volume down + power button for several seconds can boot into fastboot recovery mode which will allow the kernel to be reflashed. The steps below are only meant as a last resort, like if your bootloader was wiped via a botched update or similar.
- Linux machine with:
- free USB3 port (required for fusee-launcher) (Intel chipsets may work more reliably here)
- (if 64-bit kernel/userland) 32-bit libraries installed (for .deb-based distros
dpkg --add-architecture i386; apt update && apt install libc6:i386 libstdc++6:i386
) pyusb
installed (for .deb-based distrosapt install python3-usb
)fastboot
installed (for .deb-based distrosapt install fastboot
)adb
installed (for .deb-based distrosapt install adb
)cbootimage
installed (for .deb-based distrosapt install cbootimage
)- recursive clone of this repository (
git clone --recursive https://github.com/tofurky/tegra30_debrick.git
)
- Factory Android .zip for "nakasi". The latest is nakasi-lmy47v-factory-5a0bb059.zip. Others can be found here.
- Some basic knowledge/familiarity with Linux command line
- Some basic knowledge/familiarity with flashing Android (e.g. fastboot and adb)
-
Connect Nexus 7 to USB3 port on Linux machine via Micro-USB jack.
- If you have reason to believe the battery may be at less than 30% capacity, let it sit there for an hour or two before proceeding. This isn't just to play it safe - the bootloader will refuse to operate in nvp3server mode if it's at <= 29%.
-
Check output of
dmesg
andlsusb
commands. Take note if the tablet automatically enumerates in APX mode:Example
dmesg
output showing enumeration in APX mode:[Sat Jul 4 12:12:44 2020] usb 2-3.4: new high-speed USB device number 86 using xhci_hcd [Sat Jul 4 12:12:44 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device found, idVendor=0955, idProduct=7330, bcdDevice= 1.03 [Sat Jul 4 12:12:44 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=0 [Sat Jul 4 12:12:44 2020] usb 2-3.4: Product: APX [Sat Jul 4 12:12:44 2020] usb 2-3.4: Manufacturer: NVIDIA Corp.
Example
lsusb
output showing device in APX mode:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ lsusb ... Bus 002 Device 086: ID 0955:7330 NVIDIA Corp. ...
-
If the tablet is not automatically entering APX mode, try the following to coerce it:
- Open up a terminal window and execute
dmesg -Tw
. This is so you can see the USB enumeration happen in real time. - With the tablet plugged into the Linux machine, try holding volume up + power simultaneously for around 10-15 seconds.
- If that doesn't work, it might help to unplug the internal battery connector. First, unplug the USB cable.
- Follow the first few steps here to gently remove the rear cover and unplug the battery cable. If you're careful, this can be done without tools.
- While pressing the volume up button, plug in the USB cable. It's a bit tricky with the cover removed - it should slightly "click" inwards. Using the edge of your fingernail can help. You may need to use more pressure than expected to create electrical contact. (Note: it can take several attempts to get the tablet to actually enumerate. If you continuously see USB errors in
dmesg
, maybe try sharper pressure on the volume up button.) - The tablet should then hopefully enumerate in APX mode. If it does, release the volume up button and reconnect the battery connector (leave the USB cable plugged in).
- Open up a terminal window and execute
-
From APX mode, execute fusee-launcher using uart_payload_n7.bin. Within the
tegra30_debrick
directory, run:sudo ./fusee-launcher/fusee-launcher.py ./payload/uart_payload_n7.bin -P 7330
Example terminal output:
matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./fusee-launcher/fusee-launcher.py ./payload/uart_payload_n7.bin -P 7330 2020-07-04 12:16:54,982 INFO:usb.core:find(): using backend "usb.backend.libusb1" Important note: on desktop Linux systems, we currently require an XHCI host controller. A good way to ensure you're likely using an XHCI backend is to plug your device into a blue 'USB 3' port. Identified a Linux system; setting up the appropriate backend. intermezzo_size: 0x00000078 target_payload_size: 0x000005ee Found a Tegra with Device ID: b'05163c81bc245d01' Stack snapshot: b'0000000000000000100000003c9f0040' EndpointStatus_stack_addr: 0x40009f3c ProcessSetupPacket SP: 0x40009f30 InnerMemcpy LR stack addr: 0x40009f20 overwrite_len: 0x00004f20 overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 payload_first_length: 0x000005ee overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 payload_second_length: 0x00000000 b'00a0004000300040ee05000000000000' Setting rcm msg size to 0x00030064 RCM payload (len_insecure): b'64000300' Setting ourselves up to smash the stack... Payload offset of intermezzo: 0x00000074 overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 overwrite_len: 0x00004f20 payload_overwrite_len: 0x00004e5c overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 smash_padding: 0x000047f2 overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 Uploading payload... txing 20480 bytes total txing 4096 bytes (0 already sent) to buf[0] 0x40003000 txing 4096 bytes (4096 already sent) to buf[1] 0x40005000 txing 4096 bytes (8192 already sent) to buf[0] 0x40003000 txing 4096 bytes (12288 already sent) to buf[1] 0x40005000 txing 4096 bytes (16384 already sent) to buf[0] 0x40003000 Smashing the stack... sending status request with length 0x00004f20 The USB device stopped responding-- sure smells like we've smashed its stack. :) Launch complete!
Example output from USB serial adapter connected to the Nexus 7's UART after successfully running
uart_payload_n7.bin
:---------------------------------------------------------------------------- APBDEV_PMC_RST_STATUS_0: 00000000 BIT_BootType: 00000002 overriding getSecurityMode function to always return 3 (production non-secure)... writing PMC_SCRATCH0 to trigger RCM mode after soft reset... jumping to 0xfff01004...
Example
dmesg
output after successfully runninguart_payload_n7.bin
. Note that the USB device will reset and reenumerate in APX mode:[Sat Jul 4 19:17:25 2020] usb 2-3.4: USB disconnect, device number 20 [Sat Jul 4 19:17:25 2020] usb 2-3.4: new high-speed USB device number 21 using xhci_hcd [Sat Jul 4 19:17:26 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device found, idVendor=0955, idProduct=7330, bcdDevice= 1.03 [Sat Jul 4 19:17:26 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=0 [Sat Jul 4 19:17:26 2020] usb 2-3.4: Product: APX [Sat Jul 4 19:17:26 2020] usb 2-3.4: Manufacturer: NVIDIA Corp.
-
(Optional) Take a backup of the tablet's BCT with the unpatched version of nvflash for safekeeping and potential later use (i.e. use your backup instead of ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin in subsequent steps) (Note: APX/nvflash will become unresponsive after this completes successfully - you'll need to cycle power and repeat steps 1 through 4):
sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205 --getbct --bct BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg
Example
nvflash
output showing success:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205 --getbct --bct BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg Nvflash v1.13.87205 started chip uid from BR is: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 rcm version 0X30001 System Information: chip name: unknown chip id: 0x30 major: 1 minor: 3 chip sku: 0x83 chip uid: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 macrovision: disabled hdcp: enabled jtag: disabled sbk burned: true dk burned: true boot device: emmc operating mode: 4 device config strap: 1 device config fuse: 17 sdram config strap: 0 retrieving bct into: BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN received successfully
- If you see an error like
bootloader status: Bct file not found (code: 21) message: flags: 1073893660
, and you're certain that you used the unpatched nvflash, it is possible that your BCT is damaged/missing. You will need to use the BCT from this repo (./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin
) and add--sync
to the EBT nvflash command in step 7.
Example
nvflash
output showing missing/corrupt BCTmatt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205 --getbct --bct BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg Nvflash v1.13.87205 started chip uid from BR is: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 rcm version 0X30001 System Information: chip name: unknown chip id: 0x30 major: 1 minor: 3 chip sku: 0x83 chip uid: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 macrovision: disabled hdcp: enabled jtag: disabled sbk burned: true dk burned: true boot device: emmc operating mode: 4 device config strap: 1 device config fuse: 17 sdram config strap: 0 retrieving bct into: BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN Failed sending command 2 NvError 1179650command failure: getbct failed (bad data) bootloader status: Bct file not found (code: 21) message: flags: 1073893660
-
Use
bct_dump
to confirm that the BCT looks OK:bct_dump BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN
Example
bct_dump
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ bct_dump BCT_READBACK_N7.BIN Version = 0x00030001; BlockSize = 0x00004000; PageSize = 0x00000200; PartitionSize = 0x02000000; OdmData = 0x40000000; # Bootloader used = 1; # Bootloaders max = 4; # BCT size = 6128; # Hash size = 16; # Crypto offset = 16; # Crypto length = 6112; # Max BCT search blocks = 64; # # These values are set by cbootimage using the # bootloader provided by the Bootloader=... # configuration option. # # Bootloader[0].Version = 0x00000001; # Bootloader[0].Start block = 224; # Bootloader[0].Start page = 0; # Bootloader[0].Length = 2150992; # Bootloader[0].Load address = 0x80108000; # Bootloader[0].Entry point = 0x80108000; # Bootloader[0].Attributes = 0x00000004; # Bootloader[0].Bl AES Hash = b28ebc06accf2bcd877e444bc28d00c0; # Bootloader[0].RsaPssSigBl: SDRAM[0].MemoryType = NvBootMemoryType_Ddr3; SDRAM[0].PllMChargePumpSetupControl = 0x00000008; SDRAM[0].PllMLoopFilterSetupControl = 0x00000000; SDRAM[0].PllMInputDivider = 0x0000000c; ... SDRAM[1].McEmemArbMisc1 = 0x78000000; SDRAM[1].McEmemArbRing1Throttle = 0x001f0000; SDRAM[1].McEmemArbOverride = 0x00000080; SDRAM[1].McEmemArbRsv = 0xff00ff00; SDRAM[1].McClkenOverride = 0x00000000;
- If you see an error like
-
Boot from APX to fastboot's nv3pserver mode like so:
sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --setbct --bct ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg --bl ./bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img --go
Example
nvflash
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --setbct --bct ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg --bl ./bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img --go Nvflash v1.13.87205 started chip uid from BR is: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 rcm version 0X30001 System Information: chip name: unknown chip id: 0x30 major: 1 minor: 3 chip sku: 0x83 chip uid: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 macrovision: disabled hdcp: enabled jtag: disabled sbk burned: true dk burned: true boot device: emmc operating mode: 3 device config strap: 1 device config fuse: 17 sdram config strap: 0 sending file: ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin - 6128/6128 bytes sent ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin sent successfully downloading bootloader -- load address: 0x80108000 entry point: 0x80108000 sending file: ./bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img - 2150992/2150992 bytes sent ./bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img sent successfully waiting for bootloader to initialize bootloader downloaded successfully
Example UART output (Note: this is from the patched _uart.img bootloader variant, not what is shown in the above command):
Starting Miniloader Transferring control to Bootloader hip Id: 0x30 (Handheld SOC) Major: 0x1 Minor: 0x3 SKU: 0x83 NVRM Initialized shmoo database NVRM CLOCKS: PLLX0: 700000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLM0: 667000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLC0: 600000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLP0: 408000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLA0: 11289 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: CPU: 700000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: AVP: 102000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: System Bus: 102000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: Memory Controller: 333500 NVRM CLOCKS: External Memory Controller: 667000 PMIC_detection PINMUX_AUX_GMI_CS2_N_0 register=30 PMIC_detection id_value =0 RegData=0 BoardInfo: 0x0f41:0x0a00:0x01:0x44:0x02 KaiPmuGetCapabilities(): The power rail 33 is not mapped properly KaiPmuGetCapabilities(): The power rail 33 is not mapped properly Max77663IsRailEnabled() Rail2 is using FPS1 Max77663IsRailEnabled() Rail9 is using FPS0 Max77663IsRailEnabled() Rail13 is using FPS1 Max77663IsRailEnabled() Rail13 is using FPS1 ADJUSTED CLOCKS: MC clock is set to 333500 KHz EMC clock is set to 667000 KHz (DDR clock is at 667000 KHz) PLLX0 clock is set to 700000 KHz PLLC0 clock is set to 600000 KHz CPU clock is set to 700000 KHz System and AVP clock is set to 102000 KHz GraphicsHost clock is set to 163200 KHz 3D clock is set to 111166 KHz 2D clock is set to 111166 KHz Epp clock is set to 111166 KHz Mpe clock is set to 111166 KHz Vde clock is set to 272000 KHz Bootloader Start at:22222 ms read_battery_register i2c_addr=aa reg=2c NvOdmI2cStatus_Success getbatterycapacity capacity=30 Initializing Display OdmPmuApGpioGetCapabilities(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioGetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioGetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioSetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioSetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioSetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioSetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails Project value(0x0) Project value(0x0) Invalidate-only cache maint not supported in NvOs in nvrm_clocks.c, NvRmPowerModuleClockConfig pclk, state->SourceClock=6, state->actual_freq=12000, state->Divider=1 Project value(0x0) in nvrm_clocks.c, NvRmPowerModuleClockConfig pclk, state->SourceClock=0, state->actual_freq=408000, state->Divider=1 OdmPmuApGpioGetCapabilities(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioSetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails OdmPmuApGpioSetVoltage(): The VddRail 37 is more than registered rails Project value(0x0) ASUS_charger_mode+ Project value(0x0) asus: [smb347_hot_temp_setting] Hard Limit Hot Temperature set success ! Exit charger mode due to Nv3pServer is active. Show google logo show logo at 22873ms [bootloader] (built on Mar 21 2013, 17:12:55) Platform Pre Boot configuration... read_battery_register i2c_addr=aa reg=2c NvOdmI2cStatus_Success getbatterycapacity capacity=30 Entering NvFlash recovery mode / Nv3p Server Chip Uid: 015d24bc813c1605
- If
nvflash
errors out with something along the lines ofbootloader failed NvError 0x0
, it is possible that the battery is not charged enough to continue. The tablet screen will clearly say "battery is too low". If that's the case, cycle power, let it charge, and revisit in an hour or two. The cutoff seems to be 29%.
Example
nvflash
output if battery is too low (this error could happen for other reasons, too - but if your tablet has been sitting dead for a while, it's a likely culprit)matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --setbct --bct ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg --bl ./bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img --go Nvflash v1.13.87205 started chip uid from BR is: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 rcm version 0X30001 System Information: chip name: unknown chip id: 0x30 major: 1 minor: 3 chip sku: 0x83 chip uid: 0x0000000000000000015d24bc813c1605 macrovision: disabled hdcp: enabled jtag: disabled sbk burned: true dk burned: true boot device: emmc operating mode: 3 device config strap: 1 device config fuse: 17 sdram config strap: 0 sending file: ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin - 6128/6128 bytes sent ./bct/nexus_7_grouper_bct.bin sent successfully downloading bootloader -- load address: 0x80108000 entry point: 0x80108000 sending file: ./bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img - 2150992/2150992 bytes sent ./bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img sent successfully waiting for bootloader to initialize usb read error (71): Protocol error bootloader failed NvError 0x0 command failure: bootloader download failed
- If
-
Use the currently running nv3pserver mode to reflash the bootloader to eMMC (Note: if step 5 failed due to corrupt/missing BCT, add
--sync
to this command. It will re-write the BCT.):sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --download EBT bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg
Example
nvflash
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --download EBT bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg Nvflash v1.13.87205 started [resume mode] sending file: bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img - 2150992/2150992 bytes sent bootloader/bootloader-grouper-4.23.img sent successfully
Example UART output (from patched _uart.img)
BytesPerSector = 4096 Start Downloading EBT End Downloading EBT !!!!!device update success!!!!! SocCpuMaxKHz = 1000000 SocCpuMinKHz = 32 PLLX0 FreqKHz = 700000 Project value(0x0) Checking for android ota recovery Key driver not found.. Booting OS Cold-booting Linux Platform Pre OS Boot configuration... Project value(0x0) Warning: console set to hsport ( secure world tracing won't work) The proc BoardInfo: 0x0f41:0x0a00:0x01:0x44:0x02 Project value(0x0) mping to kernel at:47975 ms
- If you had a valid kernel and system image on the device, the tablet may boot into it immediately after flashing EBT. However, this does not mean that the bootloader/BCT were successfully flashed.
Example
dmesg
output if stock kernel automatically boots:[Sat Jul 4 23:23:00 2020] usb 2-3.4: USB disconnect, device number 66 [Sat Jul 4 23:23:14 2020] usb 2-3.4: new high-speed USB device number 67 using xhci_hcd [Sat Jul 4 23:23:14 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device found, idVendor=18d1, idProduct=4e41, bcdDevice=99.99 [Sat Jul 4 23:23:14 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device strings: Mfr=2, Product=3, SerialNumber=4 [Sat Jul 4 23:23:14 2020] usb 2-3.4: Product: Android [Sat Jul 4 23:23:14 2020] usb 2-3.4: Manufacturer: Android [Sat Jul 4 23:23:14 2020] usb 2-3.4: SerialNumber: 015d24bc813c1605
- At this point, it is necessary to perform a cold boot to verify the bootloader and BCT are properly flashed. This can be achieved by holding the power button for approximately 10 seconds. Eventually, you should see a Google logo and the tablet will continue booting into Android if kernel and system partitions are intact.
-
Enter fastboot mode by holding the volume down and power keys for approximately 10s. While holding the buttons, the screen should go blank, briefly flash the Google logo, and then go to the screen with the Android mascot (it also says 'Start' at the top). Release the buttons:
Example
dmesg
output showing fastboot enumerating:[Sat Jul 4 23:27:51 2020] usb 2-3.4: USB disconnect, device number 69 [Sat Jul 4 23:27:51 2020] usb 2-3.4: new high-speed USB device number 70 using xhci_hcd [Sat Jul 4 23:27:51 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device found, idVendor=18d1, idProduct=4e40, bcdDevice= 0.00 [Sat Jul 4 23:27:51 2020] usb 2-3.4: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=3 [Sat Jul 4 23:27:51 2020] usb 2-3.4: Product: Android [Sat Jul 4 23:27:51 2020] usb 2-3.4: Manufacturer: Google, Inc [Sat Jul 4 23:27:51 2020] usb 2-3.4: SerialNumber: 015d24bc813c1605
-
From here it is possible to completely restore the stock OS using a factory .zip image. Run the following to confirm communication with the device:
sudo fastboot devices
Example
fastboot
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo fastboot devices 015d24bc813c1605 fastboot
-
Before attempting any of this, be sure that your system isn't recoverable via other means. This could be as simple as hooking up a USB cable and running adb
, or possibly plugging in a USB keyboard and attempting to enter recovery mode.
- Linux machine with:
- free USB3 port (required for fusee-launcher) (Intel chipsets may work more reliably here)
- (if 64-bit kernel/userland) 32-bit libraries installed (for .deb-based distros
dpkg --add-architecture i386; apt update && apt install libc6:i386 libstdc++6:i386
) pyusb
installed (for .deb-based distrosapt install python3-usb
)fastboot
installed (for .deb-based distrosapt install fastboot
)adb
installed (for .deb-based distrosapt install adb
)- recursive clone of this repository (
git clone --recursive https://github.com/tofurky/tegra30_debrick.git
)
- Ouya OTA update .zip (if you had a bad kernel flash, for example)
- a large .7z with multiple versions can be found here
- (if Ouya isn't automatically booting to APX) low ohm resistor (I used 47 ohm) connected to ground with an e.g. wire and/or test clip
- if you're brave, dextrous, and very careful you might even get away with a paperclip grounded to the springy clip on the edge of the PCB
- Some basic knowledge/familiarity with Linux command line
- Some basic knowledge/familiarity with flashing Android (e.g. fastboot and adb)
-
Connect Ouya to power, but leave powered off
-
Connect Ouya to USB3 port on Linux machine via Micro-USB jack
-
Power on Ouya and check
dmesg
and/orlsusb
output on Linux machine. Take note if the Ouya automatically enumerates in APX mode:Example
dmesg
output showing enumeration in APX mode:[Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: new high-speed USB device number 8 using xhci_hcd [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device found, idVendor=0955, idProduct=7030, bcdDevice= 1.03 [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=0 [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Product: APX [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Manufacturer: NVIDIA Corp.
Example
lsusb
output showing device in APX mode:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ lsusb ... Bus 002 Device 055: ID 0955:7030 NVIDIA Corp. T30 [Tegra 3] recovery mode ...
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If Ouya is not automatically booting to APX mode, do the following:
- Disassemble Ouya by removing the 4 screws on the top and carefully sliding out PCB. This iFixit teardown may be helpful.
- Repeat steps 1 & 2 to reconnect power and Micro-USB cable
- Taking ESD precautions, connect pin on PFET to ground via low ohm resistor (~47 ohm - other values including 0 ohm probably work)
- Power on Ouya with button
- Leave PFET pin grounded for approximately 2s after pressing power button. This is about the time it takes for the fan to spin up.
- If grounding PFET pin doesn't work. There is an alternate method. Otherwise skip to the next step.
- Short the U33 pads
- Power on Ouya with button
- Remove short from U33
- Check Linux
dmesg
output on your PC to see if the Ouya enumerated in APX mode.- If it did, but reset afterwards, you've held the PFET to ground for too long.
- If it didn't, try holding it a small amount longer.
Example
dmesg
output showing success:[Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: new high-speed USB device number 8 using xhci_hcd [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device found, idVendor=0955, idProduct=7030, bcdDevice= 1.03 [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=0 [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Product: APX [Thu Jul 2 16:28:11 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Manufacturer: NVIDIA Corp.
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From APX mode, execute fusee-launcher using uart_payload_ouya.bin. Within the
tegra30_debrick
directory, run:sudo ./fusee-launcher/fusee-launcher.py ./payload/uart_payload_ouya.bin -P 7030
Example terminal output:
matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./fusee-launcher/fusee-launcher.py ./payload/uart_payload_ouya.bin -P 7030 2020-07-02 22:04:36,408 INFO:usb.core:find(): using backend "usb.backend.libusb1" Important note: on desktop Linux systems, we currently require an XHCI host controller. A good way to ensure you're likely using an XHCI backend is to plug your device into a blue 'USB 3' port. Identified a Linux system; setting up the appropriate backend. intermezzo_size: 0x00000078 target_payload_size: 0x000005ee Found a Tegra with Device ID: b'0210380c06495d01' Stack snapshot: b'0000000000000000100000003c9f0040' EndpointStatus_stack_addr: 0x40009f3c ProcessSetupPacket SP: 0x40009f30 InnerMemcpy LR stack addr: 0x40009f20 overwrite_len: 0x00004f20 overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 payload_first_length: 0x000005ee overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 payload_second_length: 0x00000000 b'00a0004000300040ee05000000000000' Setting rcm msg size to 0x00030064 RCM payload (len_insecure): b'64000300' Setting ourselves up to smash the stack... Payload offset of intermezzo: 0x00000074 overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 overwrite_len: 0x00004f20 payload_overwrite_len: 0x00004e5c overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 smash_padding: 0x000047f2 overwrite_payload_off: 0x00004de0 Uploading payload... txing 20480 bytes total txing 4096 bytes (0 already sent) to buf[0] 0x40003000 txing 4096 bytes (4096 already sent) to buf[1] 0x40005000 txing 4096 bytes (8192 already sent) to buf[0] 0x40003000 txing 4096 bytes (12288 already sent) to buf[1] 0x40005000 txing 4096 bytes (16384 already sent) to buf[0] 0x40003000 Smashing the stack... sending status request with length 0x00004f20 The USB device stopped responding-- sure smells like we've smashed its stack. :) Launch complete!
Example output from USB serial adapter connected to Ouya's UART after successfully running
uart_payload_ouya.bin
:---------------------------------------------------------------------------- APBDEV_PMC_RST_STATUS_0: 00000000 BIT_BootType: 00000002 overriding getSecurityMode function to always return 3 (production non-secure)... writing PMC_SCRATCH0 to trigger RCM mode after soft reset... jumping to 0xfff01004...
Example
dmesg
output after successfully runninguart_payload_ouya.bin
. Note that the USB device will reset and reenumerate in APX mode:[Thu Jul 2 16:35:48 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: USB disconnect, device number 8 [Thu Jul 2 16:35:49 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: new high-speed USB device number 9 using xhci_hcd [Thu Jul 2 16:35:49 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device found, idVendor=0955, idProduct=7030, bcdDevice= 1.03 [Thu Jul 2 16:35:49 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=0 [Thu Jul 2 16:35:49 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Product: APX [Thu Jul 2 16:35:49 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Manufacturer: NVIDIA Corp.
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Boot from APX to fastboot's nv3pserver mode like so:
sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --setbct --bct ./bct/ouya_rev_1.01_bct.bin --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg --bl ./bootloader/ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20_sigcheck_disabled.bin --go
Example terminal output from
nvflash
command:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --setbct --bct ./bct/ouya_rev_1.01_bct.bin --configfile ./utils/flash.cfg --bl ./bootloader/ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20_sigcheck_disabled.bin --go Nvflash v1.13.87205 started chip uid from BR is: 0x0000000000000000015d49060c381002 rcm version 0X30001 System Information: chip name: unknown chip id: 0x30 major: 1 minor: 3 chip sku: 0x80 chip uid: 0x0000000000000000015d49060c381002 macrovision: disabled hdcp: enabled jtag: disabled sbk burned: true dk burned: true boot device: emmc operating mode: 3 device config strap: 0 device config fuse: 0 sdram config strap: 0 sending file: ./bct/ouya_rev_1.01_bct.bin - 6128/6128 bytes sent ./bct/ouya_rev_1.01_bct.bin sent successfully downloading bootloader -- load address: 0x80108000 entry point: 0x80108000 sending file: ./bootloader/ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20_sigcheck_disabled.bin / 1011728/1011728 bytes sent ./bootloader/ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20_sigcheck_disabled.bin sent successfully waiting for bootloader to initialize bootloader downloaded successfully
Example Ouya UART output after
nvflash
command:Bootloader AVP Init **********Aos DebugSemiHosting Initialized******* --------------------------------------------------- NVRM Initialized shmoo database NVRM CLOCKS: PLLX0: 700000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLM0: 800000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLC0: 600000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLP0: 408000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: PLLA0: 11289 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: CPU: 700000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: AVP: 102000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: System Bus: 102000 Khz NVRM CLOCKS: Memory Controller: 200000 NVRM CLOCKS: External Memory Controller: 400000 Fake BoardInfo: 0x0c5b:0x0b01:0x04:0x43:0x03 ADJUSTED CLOCKS: MC clock is set to 200000 KHz EMC clock is set to 400000 KHz (DDR clock is at 400000 KHz) PLLX0 clock is set to 700000 KHz PLLC0 clock is set to 600000 KHz CPU clock is set to 700000 KHz System and AVP clock is set to 102000 KHz GraphicsHost clock is set to 163200 KHz 3D clock is set to 133333 KHz 2D clock is set to 133333 KHz Epp clock is set to 133333 KHz Mpe clock is set to 133333 KHz Vde clock is set to 272000 KHz Pinmux changes applied in kernel way Bootloader Start at:44553 ms [bootloader] (built on Jun 20 2013, 22:10:09) Initializing Display Invalidate-only cache maint not supported in NvOs Platform Pre Boot configuration... Entering NvFlash recovery mode / Nv3p Server
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(Optional, but recommended) Take partition-by-partition dumps of eMMC by running:
for partition in BCT PT EBT EKS GP1 SOS LNX APP CAC UPP MSC USP MDA GPT UDA; do sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --read $partition $partition.bin; done
-
Note that the last partition, UDA (userdata), has a decent chance of hanging. If it does, it may be necessary to power cycle the Ouya. To run it as a one-off:
sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --read UDA UDA.bin
-
-
If Ouya was not automatically booting to APX mode (e.g. bad kernel)
-
Reflash LNX with e.g. CWM Recovery:
sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --download LNX ./recovery/recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.8-ouya.img --go
Example
nvflash
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --download LNX ./recovery/recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.8-ouya.img --go Nvflash v1.13.87205 started [resume mode] sending file: ./recovery/recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.8-ouya.img - 8151040/8151040 bytes sent ./recovery/recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.8-ouya.img sent successfully
-
Confirm Ouya boots into recovery (being attached to a TV via HDMI helps here):
sudo adb devices
Example
adb
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo adb devices List of devices attached 015d49060c381002 recovery
Example
dmesg
output:[Thu Jul 2 22:49:53 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: USB disconnect, device number 35 [Thu Jul 2 22:50:02 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: new high-speed USB device number 36 using xhci_hcd [Thu Jul 2 22:50:02 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device found, idVendor=18d1, idProduct=d001, bcdDevice= 2.32 [Thu Jul 2 22:50:02 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device strings: Mfr=2, Product=3, SerialNumber=4 [Thu Jul 2 22:50:02 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Product: Ouya [Thu Jul 2 22:50:02 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Manufacturer: Boxer8 [Thu Jul 2 22:50:02 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: SerialNumber: 015d49060c381002
- From recovery, reflash stock .zip, or
adb reboot-bootloader
to get to fastboot to reflash stock
-
-
If Ouya was automatically booting to APX mode (i.e. bad/erased bootloader/BCT):
-
Backup LNX partition if you haven't yet done so:
sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --read LNX LNX.bin
-
Erase LNX partition via nv3pserver mode by uploading all zeroes:
truncate -s 8M LNX_all_zeroes.bin sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --download LNX LNX_all_zeroes.bin --go
Example
nvflash
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ truncate -s 8M LNX_all_zeroes.bin matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo ./utils/nvflash_v1.13.87205_miniloader_patched --resume --download LNX LNX_all_zeroes.bin --go Nvflash v1.13.87205 started [resume mode] sending file: LNX_all_zeroes.bin / 8388608/8388608 bytes sent LNX_all_zeroes.bin sent successfully
- nvp3server should then try to boot Linux, and subsequently fail back to standard fastboot mode
Example UART output:
Start Downloading LNX End Downloading LNX SocCpuMaxKHz = 1000000 SocCpuMinKHz = 32 PLLX0 FreqKHz = 700000 Checking for android ota recovery Key driver not found.. Booting OS Cold-booting Linux Booting failed Starting Fastboot USB download protocol Key driver not found.. Booting OS
Example
dmesg
output:[Thu Jul 2 20:36:55 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: USB disconnect, device number 20 [Thu Jul 2 20:36:55 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: new high-speed USB device number 21 using xhci_hcd [Thu Jul 2 20:36:55 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device found, idVendor=0955, idProduct=7000, bcdDevice= 0.00 [Thu Jul 2 20:36:55 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=3 [Thu Jul 2 20:36:55 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Product: Fastboot [Thu Jul 2 20:36:55 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: Manufacturer: NVIDIA Corp. [Thu Jul 2 20:36:55 2020] usb 2-3.3.2: SerialNumber: 015d49060c381002
-
Check to see if the device is available via fastboot (note:
sudo
isn't strictly necessary, but can workaround permissions issues):sudo fastboot devices
Example
fastboot
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo fastboot devices 015d49060c381002 fastboot
-
Use the currently running patched fastboot to reflash the unpatched fastboot:
sudo fastboot flash bootloader ./bootloader/ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20.bin
Example
fastboot
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ fastboot flash bootloader ./bootloader/ouya_rev_1.01_2013-06-20.bin target didn't report max-download-size sending 'bootloader' (988 KB)... OKAY [ 0.212s] writing 'bootloader'... OKAY [ 8.825s] finished. total time: 9.037s
Example UART output:
Cmd Rcvd: getvar:slot-count Response sent: OKAY Cmd Rcvd: getvar:slot-suffixes Response sent: OKAY Cmd Rcvd: getvar:has-slot:bootloader Response sent: OKAY Cmd Rcvd: getvar:partition-type:bootloader Response sent: OKAYbasic Cmd Rcvd: getvar:max-download-size Response sent: OKAY Cmd Rcvd: download:000f7010 Response sent: DATA000f7010 Response sent: OKAY Cmd Rcvd: flash:bootloader Format partition USP Region=0 SD Erase start 512B-sector=2686976,512B-sector-num=65536 Response sent: OKAY
-
Reboot into newly flashed bootloader:
sudo fastboot reboot-bootloader
Example
fastboot
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo fastboot reboot-bootloader rebooting into bootloader... OKAY [ 0.004s] finished. total time: 0.104s
-
Reflash the Ouya kernel with the backup that was made earlier with
nvflash
:sudo fastboot flash boot LNX.bin
Example
fastboot
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo fastboot flash boot LNX.bin target didn't report max-download-size sending 'boot' (8192 KB)... OKAY [ 2.552s] writing 'boot'... OKAY [ 2.683s] finished. total time: 5.235s
-
Boot into "new" kernel:
sudo fastboot continue
Example
fastboot
output:matt@aquos:~/devel/ouya/tegra30_debrick$ sudo fastboot continue resuming boot... OKAY [ 0.004s] finished. total time: 0.004s
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