Fix Oplus EDL Tool Failed to Send Programmer/Failed to Configure
Understanding the OPLUS EDL Tool and the Programmer Error
In the realm of Android device modification and restoration, specifically for devices manufactured by OPLUS (which includes OnePlus and OPPO), the Emergency Download (EDL) mode stands as a crucial gateway. It allows for low-level communication with the device’s bootloader, enabling the flashing of firmware even when the operating system is completely unresponsive or bricked. The OPLUS EDL Tool, a popular utility among developers and enthusiasts, facilitates this process by automating the sending of the programmer and the configuration of the device’s partition table.
However, a recurring and frustrating issue plagues many users: the “Failed to Send Programmer” or “Failed to Configure” error. This error signifies a breakdown in the communication handshake between the host computer and the target device during the critical initial stages of the flashing process. When this error occurs, the tool cannot load the necessary low-level executable (the programmer) onto the device’s Random Access Memory (RAM), nor can it proceed to configure the device’s internal storage partitions. Without successfully completing these steps, flashing a new ROM is impossible.
We understand that the fate of free EDL flashing is often precarious. The ecosystem is a constant cat-and-mouse game between developers who create these powerful tools and the manufacturers who, for various reasons including security and brand control, seek to patch the vulnerabilities that make such tools work. This guide is designed to be a comprehensive, deep-level resource for diagnosing and resolving these specific error codes, ensuring that your device can be recovered or modified successfully.
Prerequisites for Successful EDL Flashing
Before attempting to fix the specific errors, it is imperative to ensure that your environment is correctly configured. A significant percentage of EDL flashing failures are due to environmental oversights rather than tool-specific bugs. We will cover the foundational requirements in detail.
Hardware and Device Preparation
- A Stable USB Connection: This is the most overlooked factor. The EDL protocol is highly sensitive to data integrity. We strongly recommend using a high-quality, original USB cable, preferably the one that came with your device. Furthermore, connect the cable directly to a USB port on the back of your motherboard (for desktop PCs) if possible. Avoid using USB hubs, extension cables, or front-panel ports, as they can introduce voltage drops or data packet loss that disrupts the EDL handshake.
- Device Battery Level: Flashing firmware, especially in EDL mode, consumes power and the process is irreversible once initiated. A sudden power loss during the flashing process can permanently hard-brick your device (e.g., fuse blow). Ensure your device’s battery is charged to at least 60% before you begin.
- Entering EDL Mode Correctly: There are several methods to force a device into EDL mode. The most common are:
- Method A (Working OS): Enable USB Debugging in Developer Options and use the command
adb reboot edl. - Method B (Recovery/Fastboot): Boot into your custom recovery or fastboot mode and select the option to reboot to EDL.
- Method C (Hardware Method): With the device powered off, press and hold the Volume Up and Volume Down keys simultaneously, then connect the USB cable to your computer.
The device’s screen should remain black, and in Windows Device Manager, it should appear under “Ports (COM & LPT)” as
Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008. If it appears as something else, you have a driver issue, which we will address next.
- Method A (Working OS): Enable USB Debugging in Developer Options and use the command
Software Environment and Dependencies
- Operating System: While some tools may have Linux or macOS versions, the vast majority of OPLUS EDL tools are developed and tested most extensively on Windows. For the highest chance of success, we recommend using a Windows 10 or Windows 11 machine.
- Qualcomm Drivers: This is the single most critical software component. Without the correct Qualcomm HS-USB drivers, your computer cannot communicate with the device in EDL mode. You can obtain these drivers from the official Qualcomm website or through various developer forums. Ensure you install the drivers specifically for the 9008 port. After installation, when you connect your device in EDL mode, it should be correctly recognized as a COM port.
- Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables: Most OPLUS EDL tools are built using C++ and require the appropriate runtime libraries to function. Ensure you have both the x86 and x64 versions of the Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio installed on your system.
Primary Fixes for “Failed to Send Programmer/Failed to Configure”
This section delves into the core solutions for the specific error messages. These methods address the most common software and configuration-related causes. We recommend following these steps in order.
1. Ensuring the Correct Qualcomm COM Port is Selected
The OPLUS EDL Tool needs to know precisely which COM port your device is connected to. It does not always automatically select the correct one, especially if you have multiple Android devices or other hardware connected.
- Procedure:
- Open Windows Device Manager.
- Connect your device in EDL mode (
Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008). - Expand the Ports (COM & LPT) section. Note the COM port number assigned to your device (e.g., COM3, COM5, COM12).
- Launch your OPLUS EDL Tool.
- In the tool’s interface, locate the “COM Port” or “Port Selection” dropdown menu.
- Manually select the COM port number that corresponds to your device.
- If the tool was already open, you may need to click a “Refresh” button or restart the tool for it to detect the new port.
- Attempt the flash again. This single step resolves the “Failed to Send Programmer” error for a vast number of users.
2. The “OEM Unlock” and “USB Debugging” Mandate
Even when using EDL, certain prerequisites within the Android OS itself can block the flash. This is because OPLUS devices are protected by a chain of trust.
OEM Unlocking:
- If your device can still boot into Android, navigate to Settings > About Phone.
- Tap on Build Number seven times to unlock Developer Options.
- Go to Settings > System > Developer Options.
- Enable both OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging.
- Reboot the device and attempt to enter EDL mode again. While the flash process itself happens at a lower level, the initial authorization to unlock the bootloader and partition table often starts with the OEM unlock flag.
Handling Factory Reset Protection (FRP): If your device is associated with a Google account, FRP might be active. Some OPLUS EDL tools are designed to bypass FRP automatically, while others may fail if FRP is not handled. In some advanced scenarios, you may need to use a specific “FRP Reset” function within the tool or flash a non-carrier-specific OOS firmware first to clear the FRP lock.
3. MSL Code and Sideload Restrictions
For certain carrier-locked variants (e.g., T-Mobile, Verizon), a Service Menu Lock (MSL) code might be required to initiate a flash. The “Failed to Configure” error can sometimes be a direct result of the tool being unable to bypass this lock.
- Finding Your MSL Code: This can be tricky. Sometimes it is printed on the original box or can be retrieved via a diagnostic menu (
*#*#4636#*#*does not always work on OOS). Some tools include a function to read the MSL code from the device. - Using the MSL Code: If your tool has a field for an “MSL Code” or “SPC Code,” you must enter the correct code before the tool will attempt to send the programmer. Without it, the device’s Qualcomm firewall will reject the connection, leading to an immediate failure.
Advanced Troubleshooting and In-Depth Solutions
If the primary fixes above do not resolve your issue, the problem likely lies in the flashing scripts, the firmware itself, or deeper system-level locks. These advanced methods require more precision.
Cleaning the Device’s Logical Blocks (UFS/LUNs)
A “Failed to Configure” error can occur if the device’s partition table is corrupted or has remnants of a previous, incompatible firmware. The tool may attempt to write to a partition that is locked or in an inconsistent state. Forcing a wipe of the primary logical units can often resolve this.
- Using QFIL to Clean:
- Download and install the Qualcomm Flash Image Loader (QFIL) tool.
- Put your device into EDL mode and ensure it is recognized in QFIL.
- Go to the Tools tab in QFIL.
- Select Programmer Path and point it to the
prog_emmc_firehose_Sdm845.mbn(or the appropriate file for your chipset). - Go to the Build Settings tab and ensure the Build Type is set to Flat Build.
- Now, the crucial step: In the Tools tab, select “Select Build State” and set it to “RDF Partition”.
- Instead of flashing the entire firmware, you will try to only flash the
rawprogram0.xmlandpatch0.xmlfiles. Before doing that, you can attempt to use the “Erase All” or “Erase Userdata” options available in some QFIL versions.
- Warning: This is a destructive process. It will wipe your device completely. Ensure you have a full firmware package for your exact device model ready to flash immediately after this process.
The Programmer File Path and Integrity Check
The OPLUS EDL Tool requires a specific file known as a “programmer.” This is a small binary that is loaded into the device’s RAM to facilitate the actual flashing of the main firmware.
- Verify the Path: In the tool’s settings, ensure the path to the programmer file (e.g.,
prog_emmc_firehose_...mbn) is correct. Many users make the mistake of pointing to the main firmware folder instead of the specific file. It should be an absolute path. - Verify the Chipset: The programmer is chipset-specific. You cannot use a programmer for a Snapdragon 845 device on a Snapdragon 865 device. Using the wrong programmer is a guaranteed way to get a “Failed to Send Programmer” error. Double-check your device’s specs and ensure the programmer file matches your SoC.
- File Corruption: Download links for these files can be old or corrupted. If possible, try to source the programmer file from a different, trusted repository. Compare the file hash (MD5 or SHA256) if available.
Using a Generic MSMDownloadTool as an Alternative
When all else fails with a specific OPLUS EDL Tool, it may be that the tool itself has been patched or is incompatible with your current firmware version (OxygenOS/ColorOS). In this case, switching to a different tool can be the solution.
The MSMDownloadTool is the official OPLUS tool that is often leaked for specific devices. It is generally more robust but is also device and region-specific.
- Find the Correct MSM Tool: You must find the MSMDownloadTool for your exact device model and region (e.g., International, Indian, European).
- Execute with Admin Privileges: Right-click the tool’s executable and select “Run as administrator.”
- Verify “State” and “Serial Number”: The MSM tool should automatically detect your device in EDL mode and populate the “State” field and “Serial Number” field. If these fields remain blank, your drivers are still not working correctly.
- Initiate the Flash: The MSM tool is generally a one-click process. It will handle the programmer, configuration, and firmware flashing all in one go. This often bypasses errors seen in third-party tools because it uses the most up-to-date internal scripts.
Troubleshooting Network and Server Errors
Some OPLUS EDL tools, particularly those that offer “One-Click” unlocking or flashing, rely on a server-side authentication process. The “Failed to Configure” error can sometimes be a misleading message for a network failure.
- Firewall and Antivirus: Your computer’s firewall or antivirus software might be blocking the tool’s attempt to connect to its authentication server. Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus and try again.
- Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection. The tool may require a handshake with a server to generate a unique token or unlock file for your device.
- Server Status: Sometimes, the servers hosting the authentication scripts are offline or overloaded. This is outside of your control, but checking online forums (like XDA-Developers) can confirm if others are facing the same issue.
Final Resolution: The Cable, The Port, and The PC
We must re-emphasize the physical aspects of the connection. If you have exhausted all software and configuration fixes, the issue is almost certainly physical.
- Try a Different PC: If possible, attempt the entire process on a different computer. This will rule out any obscure driver conflicts or OS-level issues on your primary machine.
- Use a USB 2.0 Port: While it seems counterintuitive, sometimes USB 3.0/3.1 ports can cause driver handshake issues with Qualcomm 9008 mode. Find a dedicated USB 2.0 port on your motherboard and use it.
- Inspect the Device’s USB Port: Use a flashlight to inspect the charging port on your device. Look for lint, debris, or physical damage. Use a can of compressed air or a non-conductive plastic pick to gently clean the port. A poor physical connection will inevitably lead to data transmission errors.
By systematically working through these detailed steps, from the most common software configurations to the most advanced hardware diagnostics, you can overcome the “Failed to Send Programmer” and “Failed to Configure” errors. The key to success in EDL flashing lies in patience and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every prerequisite is met before initiating the flash.