FAQ
TL;DR: After a failed update, 7012B black screens often need the 2019.05.22 REV:02 dump; "must flash the BIOS with the correct bin file." Hardware flashing restores the unit. [Elektroda, crealster, post #18858143]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps owners of 7012B/HD MP5 head units unbrick black screens and avoid risky firmware updates.
Quick Facts
- A 7012B dump exists for CF-5201MB-C200S-12V, dated 2019.05.22, REV:02. [Elektroda, crealster, post #18858143]
- Recovery requires SPI BIOS flashing with a programmer; CH341A works. [Elektroda, crealster, post #19130912]
- SD-card update worked for one user, but it altered settings. [Elektroda, Geomi, post #18997178]
- Confirmed success: flashing a .bin with CH341A restored boot. [Elektroda, bob_Marley, post #19714248]
- Variant hardware reported: GDH-C7222-MB main board with 25L6436 flash. [Elektroda, memish, post #21317566]
How do I fix a 7012B that shows a black screen after firmware update?
The update bricked the unit. You need to flash its SPI BIOS with a hardware programmer. "A CH341A Programmer works fine." Use a correct .bin that matches your exact board revision. This method restores the display and boot sequence. [Elektroda, crealster, post #19130912]
How do I flash the .bin to the radio with a CH341A?
- Open the unit and attach an SOIC8 clip from the CH341A to the SPI flash at 3.3 V.
- Read and back up the original contents, then erase the chip.
- Write the correct .bin, verify, reassemble, and power up.
Follow a standard CH341A guide while matching your board’s dump. [Elektroda, crealster, post #19130912]
Where can I find a working 7012B firmware dump?
A shared dump targets 7012B with CF-5201MB-C200S-12V, dated 2019.05.22, REV:02. Match your board before writing. Using a mismatched image can break features or brick again. Verify IDs on the PCB silkscreen and use the exact dump. [Elektroda, crealster, post #18858143]
The GearBest update bricked my radio. What should I do next?
Recover by flashing the correct .bin with a hardware programmer. Use a CH341A and verify the write. This fixes black screens caused by wrong or unsafe update packages. Do not attempt more SD updates on a non-booting unit. [Elektroda, crealster, post #19130912]
Is there any safe software update for the 7012B?
"Nothing that’s worth the risk." Many units differ internally, so a random update can brick them. Only update if you have a board-matched package and a verified recovery method. Otherwise, leave a working unit as is. [Elektroda, crealster, post #20072127]
Can I update the 7012B via SD card instead of opening it?
Some units accept SD updates successfully, and one user reported a normal update with minor setting changes. If the unit is already black-screened, SD updates will not help; use a programmer. Always confirm the file matches your board. [Elektroda, Geomi, post #18997178]
My 2018 unit is frozen. Is there a latest update I should install?
Do not chase a generic “latest” update. These devices vary by board and display drivers. Without a board-matched package, you risk another brick. The practical advice is to avoid updates unless needed and fully recoverable. [Elektroda, crealster, post #20072127]
Which versions have reported USB issues like P‑Link with iPhone?
A user with Soft V7.52BT-FK-TP, Info ZCD-7089-6905C-IC, MCU V04.57 saw “CONNECT IN” and no function with iPhone 12. The thread shows no fix. Use Bluetooth audio or alternate inputs if USB integration fails. [Elektroda, williamhowe328, post #19794386]
I used the wrong image and everything disappeared (sumiu tudo). How do I recover?
Reflash a matching .bin with a programmer and verify the write. Wrong images wipe partitions or break features. Identify your board and only use its exact dump to restore the system. Back up whatever remains before writing. [Elektroda, crealster, post #19130912]
Can I get the dump in .img format instead of .bin?
Use the .bin with your CH341A software. A confirmed recovery used a .bin and the unit booted again. .img is not required for hardware flashing, which writes raw SPI contents. [Elektroda, bob_Marley, post #19714248]
How do I identify my exact board to avoid the wrong firmware?
Open the device and read the PCB silkscreen and flash chip. Example: GDH-C7222-MB with a 25L6436 SPI flash was reported. Match dumps to these identifiers to prevent mismatches and feature loss. [Elektroda, memish, post #21317566]
Can I unbrick without opening the radio?
No. A black screen after an update indicates the boot flash needs rewriting. Use a hardware programmer on the SPI flash. Software-only methods work only if the device still boots to update mode. [Elektroda, crealster, post #19130912]
What risks or edge cases should I watch for during recovery?
Using a wrong image can erase functions or leave a blank system. One report noted “sumiu tudo” after flashing the wrong images. Always confirm board ID and version before writing any dump. [Elektroda, samvideoproducoess, post #21143486]
Does flashing actually work for people here?
Yes. A user followed a CH341A guide, flashed the .bin, and the unit booted again. This confirms the hardware-flash path works when the correct dump is used. [Elektroda, bob_Marley, post #19714248]
