SPRD Flashing Guide
Flash Spreadtrum/Unisoc devices using Research Download or SPD Upgrade Tool
Important Warning
Flashing firmware can brick your device. Backup your data and ensure battery is charged above 60%. Use correct firmware for your exact device model.
About Spreadtrum/Unisoc
Spreadtrum (now Unisoc) powers many budget smartphones (Tecno, Infinix, itel, and others).
What You'll Need
- SPRD firmware file (.pac format)
- Research Download Tool (or SPD Upgrade Tool)
- Spreadtrum USB Drivers installed
- USB cable (original preferred)
- Windows PC (7/8/10/11)
Step 1: Install SPRD USB Drivers
- Download Spreadtrum USB Drivers
- Extract driver package
- Run
DPInst.exeorsetup.exe - Follow installation wizard
- Restart computer if prompted
Note: Some tools include drivers. Check if drivers are bundled with your flash tool.
Step 2: Download & Extract Files
- Download your device firmware from MobiFirms (.pac file)
- Download Research Download Tool
- Extract the flash tool to a folder
- Keep firmware .pac file (no need to extract)
Step 3: Launch Research Download Tool
- Navigate to flash tool folder
- Run
ResearchDownload.exeas Administrator - Tool will open with several options
Step 4: Load Firmware File
- Click "Pac File" or "Load Packet"
- Browse and select your firmware .pac file
- Tool loads and verifies the firmware
Tip: Firmware file often named like
SC9863A_4.19_Infinix.pacStep 5: Configure Flash Options
Recommended Settings
- Flash Type: ALL (complete flash)
- Erase Flash: Enabled
- Reset After Flash: Enabled
- IMEI Download: Disabled (preserve IMEI)
IMEI Warning
Do NOT enable "IMEI Download" unless you have a backup, otherwise you may lose network connectivity.
Step 6: Power Off Device
- Turn off your phone completely
- Remove battery (if removable)
- Wait 10 seconds
- Reinsert battery (if removed)
- Do NOT power on
Step 7: Start Flashing Process
- Click "Start" or "Download" in the tool
- Status shows "Waiting for device..."
- Connect powered-off phone via USB cable
- Tool detects the device and starts flashing (progress bar shows)
During Flashing
- Progress bar fills (0% → 100%)
- Phone screen may stay black or show charging icon
- Do not disconnect USB or close the tool
- Typical duration: 3–8 minutes
Step 8: Complete & Reboot
- Wait for "Passed" or success message
- Disconnect USB cable
- Hold Power to boot device
- First boot may take 5–10 minutes
Common Errors & Solutions
Solutions:
- Reinstall SPRD USB drivers
- Try different USB cable/port (USB 2.0)
- Disable antivirus temporarily
- Check Device Manager for driver issues
Possible causes: Wrong firmware, corrupted .pac, hardware fault, incompatible tool version.
Flash again with Erase Flash enabled, try different firmware, factory reset from recovery, or wait longer (first boot can take 15 minutes).
Prevention: Never enable IMEI Download.
Recovery: Restore IMEI from backup using professional tools.
Recovery: Restore IMEI from backup using professional tools.
Pro Tips
- Backup IMEI before flashing (write it down)
- Use original USB cable for stable connection
- Disable antivirus during flashing
- Battery above 60% recommended
If Device Becomes Bricked
- Reflash with "Erase Flash" enabled
- Try different tool version
- Use alternative firmware version
- Seek professional repair if hardware is damaged