Notable SoCs where 0x146 appears:
Before looking at solutions, understand that certain common troubleshooting steps will absolutely not work for this specific hardware lock:
: In recent years, researchers discovered critical vulnerabilities in MediaTek's BROM code (such as the famous Kamakiri exploit). These allowed users to bypass security, read data, and remove locks without a password. Disabling BROM kills these hardware exploits entirely.
The error code is returned by the BROM itself via USB handshake or UART. It breaks down as follows: brom disabled by efuse 0x146
Forcing a BROM connection in service software when the tool should be communicating via Preloader mode. How to Bypass or Fix "BROM Disabled by efuse 0x146"
Locate the specific gold contact on the board for your exact phone model (search for your model's test point diagram online).
Locate the small gold pinout labeled (Clock), CMD , or GND (Ground) meant for forcing BROM. Notable SoCs where 0x146 appears: Before looking at
More importantly, in many newer Oppo, Realme, and Vivo devices, this fuse indicates that in favor of "Preloader" mode only.
: These wires connect to an external hardware box (like EasyJiarag, Medusa Pro, or MiPi Tester). This completely bypasses the MediaTek processor and its locked BROM, allowing you to re-image the flash memory directly from your computer. Summary of Mitigation Strategies System State Recommended Action Phone Still Boots Preloader intact, BROM locked.
This error marks a fundamental shift in Android hardware security, hardware-level tracking, and anti-tamper mechanisms. Understanding this error requires looking closely at why it happens, what it means for device repair, and how to work around it. 1. What is BROM? The error code is returned by the BROM
Note: This varies by model and carries a risk of hardware damage. 3. Authorized Flashing
To understand the error, you first need to understand the boot process of a MediaTek chip.