What Is ISP Pinout

ISP (In-System Programming) pinout is a direct hardware access method that allows technicians to communicate with a device's NAND flash storage — in this case a UFS chip — without relying on the device's CPU, bootloader, or Android OS. By identifying and probing specific test pads on the motherboard, a compatible ISP tool can read, write, or erase flash memory entirely independently of software locks. This technique is essential when normal fastboot, ADB, or download-mode access is unavailable. It bypasses FRP locks, recovers firmware on completely dead units, and enables forensic data extraction in professional repair environments.

SM-A245 ISP Testpoint Locations

The Samsung SM-A245 (Galaxy A24 4G) uses a MediaTek Dimensity 700 platform with UFS 2.2 flash storage. ISP test pads are located on the rear side of the main PCB, typically near the UFS BGA package. Due to the compact motherboard layout on this model, the pads are fine-pitch and require a steady hand or dedicated ISP pogo-pin jig for reliable contact. The key signals to locate are CLK, CMD, DAT0, VCC (2.9 V), VCCQ (1.8 V), and GND. Exact pad silk-screen labels and coordinates vary between PCB revisions; always cross-reference with a verified board-level schematic or a trusted ISP jig diagram before making contact.

When Technicians Use ISP

  • Device is completely dead and does not enter download mode or respond to USB.
  • Bootloader is corrupted, causing a permanent bootloop that EDL or Odin cannot resolve.
  • FRP (Factory Reset Protection) lock persists after standard software methods fail.
  • IMEI or EFS partition needs backup or restoration at the hardware level.
  • Firmware needs to be re-flashed when the eMMC/UFS is partially corrupted.
  • Forensic read of user data partition is required by an authorized investigator.

Step-by-Step Access Procedure

1. Fully disassemble the SM-A245 and remove the motherboard from the chassis. Disconnect the battery connector before proceeding.

2. Identify the UFS ISP test pads using a verified schematic or manufacturer-supplied jig. Clean the pad area with IPA and a soft brush.

3. Connect an ISP-compatible tool (e.g., EasyJTAG Plus, UFI Box, or UMT ISP adapter) to the pads using the correct pogo-pin jig or hand-soldered wire harness, matching CLK, CMD, DAT0, VCC, VCCQ, and GND precisely.

4. Apply power through the tool — do NOT reconnect the battery. Set the tool voltage output to 2.9 V (VCC) and 1.8 V (VCCQ) as required by the UFS spec.

5. Launch the ISP software, select MediaTek UFS protocol, and initiate detection. Once the chip is recognized, proceed with your target operation: full read, FRP erase, or firmware write.

6. After completion, safely disconnect, reassemble, and test the device before returning to the customer.

Safety Precautions and Tips

  • Always discharge static electricity using an ESD wrist strap and anti-static mat before handling the PCB.
  • Double-check voltage levels — applying 2.9 V to a 1.8 V VCCQ line can permanently destroy the UFS chip.
  • Never connect the battery while the ISP tool is powered; dual power sources can cause shorts.
  • Back up the full UFS image before performing any write or erase operation.
  • Use a quality temperature-controlled soldering station if soldering wires; excessive heat damages nearby components.
  • Work under magnification to avoid bridging fine-pitch pads on this compact PCB.

Pin / Test Point Reference

PinDescription
CLKUFS clock signal pad, located near UFS BGA on rear PCB — Exact pad coordinate unconfirmed; verify with schematic
CMDUFS command signal pad — Exact pad coordinate unconfirmed
DAT0UFS data line 0 pad — Exact pad coordinate unconfirmed
VCCMain flash supply voltage — 2.9 V — Confirm with board schematic before applying power
VCCQUFS I/O supply voltage — 1.8 V — Critical: do not apply 2.9 V to this rail
GNDGround reference — multiple ground pads available near UFS package

Tools required: EasyJTAG Plus with UFS ISP adapter, UFI Box, UMT (Ultimate Multi Tool) with ISP support, Medusa Pro II, ISP pogo-pin jig for SM-A245 (if available), ESD wrist strap and mat, Temperature-controlled soldering station

Supported operations: Full UFS Read (Backup), FRP Erase, Dead Boot Repair, Firmware Flash / Write, EFS / IMEI Backup and Restore, Factory Reset

⚠ Safety note: Voltage mismatch (VCC vs VCCQ) will permanently destroy the UFS chip. Always verify pad assignments against a confirmed schematic before powering. ESD precautions mandatory.