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[BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware

erlipan2001 16542 78
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How can I flash these patched BK7231N/CB2S smart switch modules and recover their GPIO pinout/config?

Use the latest BK7231GUIFlashTool/OpenBK tools: they can auto-configure the GPIOs, and even after OpenBeken is flashed you can still pull the Tuya GPIO config from flash because it is not overwritten; the web app has a "Download Tuya GPIO Config from 0x1EE000" action that generates a .bin you can drag back into the flasher [#20578223][#20578503][#20578615] If reading the firmware fails on firmware 1.3.10, that does not block flashing—flash-only works, and the maintainer asked for 2 MB dumps for analysis when possible [#20578297][#20578322][#20578356] On these cheap switches, enable PowerSave 1 in the startup command because the power supplies are weak [#20578223] For some variants, in-circuit flashing fails unless you remove the RX-to-GND solder bridge or an RX capacitor; one reply also notes that a USB-to-UART adapter is preferred over an EEPROM programmer [#20592328][#20592454]
AI summary based on the discussion. May contain errors.
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  • Raspberry Pi may be enough for firmware extraction

    #31 20589272
    ttp1106
    Level 6  
    Posts: 9
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware >>20588972
    I am so bad at solder, I like to prevent if possible.

    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware


    I would say it's the same as erlipan2001 posted.
    I can provide the original firmware. But I'm really new to this topic and not an electrician guy. So I need more assistance. I don't have a USB/UART Adapter. But I have a raspberry. Is that enough to extract the firmware?

    Or is there anyone related to Germany? That I can send some device per parcel? :)
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  • #32 20589284
    erlipan2001
    Level 6  
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    I'm so far from being an electrician... Soldering is not that hard, I used a cheap kit from Amazon (less than 20€ from Amazon) I think these cheap switches are a great place to start.

    Also I didn't have any USB-UART adapter. I managed to use an ESP8266 NodeMCU I had lying around. A Raspberry Pi should work but I wouldn't want to risk destroying one because they are nearly impossible to get.

  • Request for firmware extraction pinout and teardown details

    #33 20589312
    ttp1106
    Level 6  
    Posts: 9
    p.kaczmarek2 wrote:
    Here's our YouTube playlist of flashing by wires guides (soldering guides, step by step, it's very easy!)
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzbXEc2ebpH0CZDbczAXT94BuSGrd_GoM


    I watched all the videos but there is no guide to extract the firmware, right? Can you give me more information about that, please? Which pins have I to use. Do I need to remove the blue PCB in total? - Currently it is on stock firmware.
  • #34 20589384
    p.kaczmarek2
    Moderator Smart Home  
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    Doing firmware backup is the same as reading.
    Just use this tool (bkWriter 1.60 is obsolete):
    https://github.com/openshwprojects/BK7231GUIFlashTool
    use "Read firmware backup" button
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #35 20590165
    ttp1106
    Level 6  
    Posts: 9
    p.kaczmarek2 wrote:
    Just use this tool


    Something went wrong in my case. It [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
    It's always switching to COM3, even if I select COM5 (which is the UART Adapter) in this case. Very strange. Before the .exe File was removed by Microsoft Defender. Oh my... Still I got failed.
  • #36 20590544
    p.kaczmarek2
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    How does it switch to COM3? When?
    If you select COM5, there is no code to switch back to COM3, unless... unless COM5 gots reset/removed temporarily from USB devices due to Windows/power/driver issues.
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  • #37 20591048
    Nanganator
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    I just got in a couple Aubees branded FS-03W blind controllers (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005004608903981.html) which also have this CB2S labeled module with a BL2028N on them. Also couldn’t read the flash for the life of me. I’ll try your suggestions as well and let you know the results.
  • #38 20591132
    p.kaczmarek2
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    Try bkWriter 1.60 for reading (but don't use it to restore the flash, it's buggy) or hid_download_py (requires python):
    https://youtu.be/PKkiqDNFIx8?list=PLzbXEc2ebpH0CZDbczAXT94BuSGrd_GoM&t=296
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
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  • #39 20592057
    Nanganator
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    No luck with 1.6 either. Could the fact there is caps on TX and RX be interfering? [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
  • #40 20592136
    p.kaczmarek2
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    Are you flashing it in circuit or outside circuit (desoldered module)?
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  • #41 20592158
    Nanganator
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    Destroyed 1 CB2S trying to remove it from the board pictured above. Tore the solder pad off the TX… So for the second one was trying to read the flash with it installed in the device still.
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
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  • Clarifying BK7231N flashing and firmware backup

    #42 20592326
    prologue71
    Level 5  
    Posts: 6
    Hi everyone
    I just came across this on my recent purchase of the mini switch.
    I have the First model of erlipan2001 description:
    Patched firmware 1.3.10 (Tuya-Cloudcutter won't work)
    obviously Tuya-cloudcutter did not work.
    I just need some clarification. How do I flash the device I have a ch341A EEPROM programmer. I downloaded the latest BK7231tool where do I grab the firmware to flash and why I need to backup the 1.3.10 firmware?

    Thank you in advance

  • Remove RX capacitor before flashing CB2S switch

    #43 20592328
    p.kaczmarek2
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    While flashing a CB2S Qiachip Smart Switch, we indeed had a capacitor on RX pin, and had to remove it:



    Video above is using hid_download_py, BK7231GUIFlashTool wasn't released back then

    @prologue71 we are now using the new GUI solution here, it should work in most cases:
    https://github.com/openshwprojects/BK7231GUIFlashTool
    we do not recommend command line program because it's easy to confuse offsets and brick device.
    Here are binaries:
    https://github.com/openshwprojects/OpenBK7231T_App/releases
    You need USB to UART converter, not the EEPROM programmer.
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzbXEc2ebpH0CZDbczAXT94BuSGrd_GoM
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  • #44 20592376
    prologue71
    Level 5  
    Posts: 6
    Thank you for the quick reply. I mean this USB programmer. I occasionally fix firmware with this. So the software should do the whole process of backup and finding the firmware to flash ?
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
  • #45 20592449
    p.kaczmarek2
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    It seems to have RX and TX pins, so you can give it a try. Just follow our tutorials. You need RX, TX, GND and 3.3V to flash BK7231 modules.
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  • Rx/tx tied to ground must be wick-cleared

    #46 20592454
    erlipan2001
    Level 6  
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    >>20592158

    @Nanganator please use a bit of flux to remove all the oxide that's forming. It will make your soldering job way easier. Also why 6 wires? You only need rx, tx, 3v3, gnd.

    Also I found out that if rx or tx is connected to the main pcb, 2 out of 2 variant I had both were connected to ground making flashing fail. You need to take a copper wick (Nearly always included in a starter kit) and wick the solder joint away.

  • Flux recommended for soldering and flashing BK7231N modules

    #47 20592476
    p.kaczmarek2
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    I guess he tried to solder first into 3.3V directly, and then to the input of AMS1117-3.3V so he can feed 5V:
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
    but in general, flux is a must, we have tons of desoldering footage, just please watch it, for example here:
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
    Flashing:
    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware


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  • #48 20592516
    prologue71
    Level 5  
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    [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware ok. Thank you guys all done with the flashing. I will attach some photos. It was actually really easy, even easier than tasmotizer.
    Now a small detail. How do I log in to the switch?
    I already desoldered and did not check it with Termite. [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
  • #49 20592527
    p.kaczmarek2
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    What is Termite? Do you have 2MB flash backup? Does the configuration AP shows up?

    With latest flasher, you could even configure the device in-place, just enter wifi pass/ssid in the BK7231Flash Tool and it will be flashed as well ("Configure OBK" or something like that button)
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  • Need help accessing Tasmota OTA on BK7231N

    #50 20592530
    prologue71
    Level 5  
    Posts: 6
    I slightly desoldered P5 pad as you can see from photo [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware

    Added after 7 [minutes]:

    thank you p.Kazmarek2. A really fast forum here
    After flashing tasmota device i was using Termite software a cli for reprogramming the device.
    Now i need some help here! How do i can get in the device ota? Is there a predefined address? the 192.168.4.1 tasmota does not work
    Thank you
  • #51 20592559
    erlipan2001
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    In my case once flashed an access point appeared and once connected I went to 192.168.4.1 and set my wifi name and pw. After that I simply checked my DHCP server to find the IP of the device.

  • OTA updates via OBK web panel explained

    #52 20592565
    p.kaczmarek2
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    OTA is the process of updating firmware via WiFi. It allows you to get newer build of OpenBeken without soldering programming wires again. It has nothing to do with 192.168.4.1, it can be done in OBK Web Panel.

    192.168.4.1 is a configuration address for OBK device. It's the same as in Tasmota. If you flash device via wires, it will create WiFi access point, and if you join this AP, you should be able to open page at 192.168.4.1 to enter your WiFi data and much more.

    You can also enter WiFi SSID/Pass via BK7231FlashTool itself, if you have problems with 192.168.4.1.
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  • Tuya to build a flashable exposed-pin module

    #53 20593105
    ttp1106
    Level 6  
    Posts: 9
    prologue71 wrote:
    I slightly desoldered P5 pad as you can see from photo


    Do I understand correctly that by removing the P5 solder point, you were able to flash it on the circuit without desoldering the entire module? I'm currently considering how to do that myself so that I don't have to desolder and redo all the solder joints on all 15 modules.
    But I don't see any P5 print on my circuit.

    Update:
    I reached out to Tuya to inquire if they could manufacture a module that exposes the pins outward, making it easier for self-flashing. They are building a module for me. Does anyone else have an interest? For a small batch, it would be around $8 per piece, excluding shipping. So it's not as inexpensive as the cheapest options, but it will be easy to flash. They are also currently exploring the possibility of shipping it with OpenBK firmware. That sounded promising to me at first.

    I mean the product "Power Monitor Switch 16A / 240V" Looks like that: [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
  • #54 20593546
    p.kaczmarek2
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    That's great news, there is certainly a market for a preflashed devices that runs locally. I could help you spread the word by posting information on our Github and Supported Devices Page, but you would need some basic site first or something.
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  • Accidental desoldering during BK7231N flashing

    #55 20593555
    prologue71
    Level 5  
    Posts: 6
    @ttp1106 the desoldering was an accident as I rushed the process. I just followed the schematics of erlipan2001 in the photo at the beginning of the post because my device coincided with that specific model.

    Added after 9 [minutes]:

    @p.kaczmarek2 I used an older version of the bk flasher as I did not want to use the beta where there are all the functions you described. Anyway the soldering process took way more than flashing as I was unprepared and not on the workstation. Also the devices are getting smaller and smaller it is very easy to damage the circuits with inadequate equipment. When I have some spare time I will fix the connection problem.
  • #56 20593567
    p.kaczmarek2
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    Some time has passed and some tests were done, that "beta" version most likely can be marked as a release soon
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  • #57 20594463
    Nanganator
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    Well I’m plum out of ideas. Pulled the CB2S module out and still can’t read the flash with 1.6. Tried hooking CEN to RTS on my FTDI. Tried about 20 different timing of touching CEN to GND. Tried powering the CB2S from a separate 3.3v power source than the FTDI and no luck. Possibly something I’m doing wrong somewhere along the way.
  • #58 20594479
    p.kaczmarek2
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    bkWriter 1.60 is not recommended for BK7231N, it will not work most likely, as said on video, use hid_download_py.

    Or use our latest BK7231GUI Flasher for both BK7231N and BK7231T.
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  • #59 20594509
    Nanganator
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    I’ll try hid_download_py tonight. These BL2028N’s are not my friends!
  • #60 20594822
    prologue71
    Level 5  
    Posts: 6
    I am back on the flashing. As the track from pin5 is gone, I used a needle to get the tx directly from the MCU.
    As per photo.
    Used the latest version to reflash. How do I recover the wifi parameters? [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware

    Added after 5 [minutes]:

    I will be in stand by on this.... [BK7231N/CB2S] Comparison of multiple smart switch modules, differences on PCB, patched firmware
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Topic summary

LABEL_AI_GENERATED
Discussion of several visually identical smart switch modules based on BK7231N/CB2S, including patched Tuya firmware 1.3.10 that blocks Tuya-Cloudcutter. The thread compares PCB variants, pin mappings, and flashing behavior, with emphasis on extracting GPIO configuration and Tuya data from 2 MB flash backups. OpenBK7231/OBK tools are recommended, especially BK7231GUIFlashTool, hid_download_py, and the OBK web app for reading flash, downloading Tuya GPIO config, and configuring devices after flashing. Multiple users report read failures with some USB-UART adapters, Arduino-based setups, and certain firmware revisions, while solutions include using the latest flasher, proper RX/TX wiring, removing pull-down/capacitor interference, and enabling PowerSave 1. The discussion also covers CB2S modules marked with BL2028N, a TR6260S1 “non-hackable” variant, energy-monitoring versions, and alternative chips such as T34 and LN882HKI.
AI summary based on the discussion. May contain errors.
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FAQ LABEL_AI_GENERATED

TL;DR: 5 switch variants and “PowerSave 1” are the core findings for OpenBeken users flashing patched BK7231N/CB2S Tuya 1.3.10 devices when Tuya-Cloudcutter fails. Use wired UART, save a 2MB dump when possible, and watch for RX-to-ground faults. [#20578056]

Why it matters: These cheap Aubess/Tuya mini switches can look identical outside but use different PCB layouts, GPIO maps, chips, and flashing constraints.

Alternative Thread result Key detail
Tuya-Cloudcutter Works only on some stock firmware BL2028N firmware 1.2.1 worked
BK7231GUIFlashTool Main recommended GUI tool Flashes patched 1.3.10 by UART
hid_download_py Recovery/CLI option Used when GUI reading fails
bkWriter 1.60 Read-only fallback Buggy; not recommended for restore
Arduino as UART Unreliable case reported USB TTL-UART fixed errors

Key insight: Do not trust the enclosure or seller listing. Identify the module and GPIO map, then flash by wired UART if firmware 1.3.10/V102 blocks OTA methods.

Quick Facts

  • The original batch summary counted x20 16A smart switches: 7 variant 2, 6 variant 1, 3 variant 3, 2 variant 4, 1 power-monitoring variant, and 1 non-hackable unit. [#20589187]
  • The practical flashing interface is 4 wires: RX, TX, GND, and 3.3V; CEN or power cycling enters the BK7231 boot process. [#20592449]
  • Patched Tuya firmware 1.3.10 blocked Tuya-Cloudcutter on multiple BK7231N/CB2S devices, while one BL2028N firmware 1.2.1 unit worked. [#20578056]
  • Some power-monitoring boards showed RX tied to ground; the workaround was removing the module-to-main-PCB solder bridge rather than desoldering the whole module. [#20589187]
  • One successful later case used a Nedis WIFIWMS10WT on firmware 1.3.10; the user needed stronger 3.3V power than a USB-TTL stick provided. [#21762958]

How do I flash OpenBeken on BK7231N or CB2S smart switches with patched Tuya firmware 1.3.10 when Tuya-Cloudcutter does not work?

Flash OpenBeken by wired UART when Tuya firmware 1.3.10 blocks Tuya-Cloudcutter.
  1. Connect RX, TX, GND, and 3.3V to the CB2S, CBU, or BK7231N module.
  2. Start BK7231GUIFlashTool and reboot by CEN or power cycling.
  3. Use “flash only” or the normal write flow with OpenBK7231N_QIO firmware.
One user flashed every 1.3.10 switch successfully, although firmware reading failed. Always check solder bridges with a multimeter before powering the board. [#20578056]

What is Tuya-Cloudcutter and why does it fail on some BK7231N devices with firmware 1.3.10 or V102?

Tuya-Cloudcutter fails because some newer BK7231N firmware builds are patched against that OTA method. "Tuya-Cloudcutter" is a flashing approach that replaces selected Tuya firmware without opening the device, but it depends on vulnerable firmware and supported profiles. In this thread, firmware 1.3.10 and V102 with energy monitoring did not work. A BL2028N unit on firmware 1.2.1 did work. [#20588972]

What is OpenBeken and how is it different from Tasmota for Tuya BK7231N, CB2S, CBU, BL2028N, and ESP8265 smart switches?

OpenBeken targets Beken-family Tuya devices, while Tasmota was used here on ESP8265 switches. "OpenBeken" is alternative smart-device firmware that runs locally on Beken and related Tuya modules, replacing cloud firmware and exposing configuration through its own web panel. The thread uses OpenBeken for BK7231N, CB2S, CBU, BL2028N, T34, and LN882HKI cases. The same batch also contained 13 ESP8265 relays flashed with Tasmota. [#20589187]

How do I use BK7231GUIFlashTool to read a 2MB firmware backup and flash OpenBK7231N_QIO firmware?

Use BK7231GUIFlashTool for backup first, then write the OpenBK7231N_QIO binary. Select BK7231N mode, choose the correct COM port, and press “Read firmware backup” for a 2MB dump. Then flash the OpenBK7231N_QIO release binary through the GUI. If backup fails on patched devices, “flash only” can still work. The developer recommended the GUI over command-line tools because wrong offsets can brick devices. [#20592328]

Which RX, TX, 3.3V, GND, and CEN pins should I use when wiring a CB2S or CBU BK7231N module for flashing?

Use RX, TX, GND, and 3.3V on the module, and reset with CEN or power cycling. The thread repeatedly states that RX and TX must cross between adapter and module. CEN can be pulled to GND to reboot into flashing flow. If CEN does not work, disconnect 3.3V, briefly discharge the module VDD to GND, then reconnect 3.3V. Do not short the power-supply 3.3V directly to GND. [#20600974]

Why does BK7231GUIFlashTool fail to read flash with errors like expected 4111 bytes, failed to set baud rate, failed to read MID, or erase sector failed?

These errors usually come from unstable UART communication, weak power, wrong wiring, or unsuitable adapters. Reported failures included “expected 4111 bytes,” “failed to set baud rate,” “failed to read MID,” and “erase sector failed.” Arduino-based serial bridges caused poor communication in one case. A USB TTL-UART converter solved that user’s repeated writing errors. Linux instability and specific USB-UART dongles were also mentioned as reading problems. [#21109485]

What should I do when the RX pin on a Tuya smart switch module is shorted or nearly shorted to ground during flashing?

Remove the RX connection to the main PCB before flashing. Several boards had RX shorted, or nearly shorted, to ground through the main PCB. The practical fix was to wick away the solder bridge between the module RX pad and the carrier PCB. One later measurement showed 5 Ohms between RTX and GND, which explains flashing failures. Check with a multimeter before retrying UART. [#21574120]

Can I flash a BK7231N smart switch without desoldering the whole module, and when is it enough to wick away the RX or TX solder joint?

Yes, you can flash in-circuit when RX and TX are isolated enough for clean UART communication. For two variants, RX or TX remained connected to the main PCB and was tied to ground. The user fixed this by using copper wick to remove the solder joint, without removing the entire module. Desoldering the full CB2S module risks torn pads, especially TX pads on small boards. [#20592454]

How can I extract the Tuya GPIO configuration from an OpenBeken device after it has already been flashed?

Use the OpenBeken web app flash tab to download the Tuya GPIO config sector. The thread gives the button text: “Download Tuya GPIO Config from 0x1EE000.” That file can then be dragged into BK7231GUIFlashTool for GPIO extraction. The reason this works is that OpenBeken does not overwrite the Tuya config stored at the end of the 2MB flash. [#20578615]

What are the GPIO pinouts for the different Aubess or Tuya 16A mini smart switch variants using CBU, CB2S, BK7231N, or BL2028N modules?

The variants use different GPIO maps, so configure each board by its extracted Tuya template. Variant 1 CBU: button P8, LED P6, toggle P14, relay P15. Variant 2 CB2S: button P23, LED P26, toggle P6, relay P7. Variant 3 CB2S: button P8, LED P7, toggle P26, relay P24. Variant 4 BL2028N/CB2S: button P10, LED P7, toggle P26, relay P8. [#20578056]

Why should I add PowerSave 1 to the OpenBeken startup command on cheap Tuya mini smart switches?

Add PowerSave 1 because these low-cost switches have weak power supplies. The OpenBeken developer explicitly wrote: “Please remember to use PowerSave 1 in short startup command on those devices!” He cited very cheap construction and low-quality power supplies, and said he had already needed to repair one device. The advice was repeated for LN882HKI and other small switch variants. [#20578223]

What is a 2MB flash dump, and why is it useful before flashing OpenBeken over the original Tuya firmware?

A 2MB flash dump is a complete backup of the device flash before overwriting Tuya firmware. "2MB flash dump" is a binary copy of the full external flash that preserves firmware, RF calibration, MAC data, and Tuya configuration areas for analysis or recovery. The developer requested original 2MB Tuya dumps because web-downloaded GPIO config files are useful, but not enough for full analysis. [#20589243]

BK7231GUIFlashTool vs hid_download_py vs bkWriter 1.60 — which tool is best for reading and flashing BK7231N devices?

BK7231GUIFlashTool is the preferred tool for BK7231N flashing and normal backups. Use hid_download_py when the GUI fails or when following the documented Python workflow. Use bkWriter 1.60 only as a read fallback, and do not restore with it because it was called buggy. The developer also stated that bkWriter 1.60 is not recommended for BK7231N and likely will not work. [#20594479]

Can I use an ESP8266 NodeMCU, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, CH341A, or CP210x adapter as a USB-to-UART programmer for BK7231N flashing?

Use a real 3.3V USB-to-UART adapter when possible. An ESP8266 NodeMCU worked when the ESP chip was disabled by grounding ENABLE. CP210x adapters were discussed for normal UART use. A CH341A-style device can work only if it exposes RX, TX, GND, and 3.3V UART pins. Arduino bridges caused failed flashing until replaced with USB TTL-UART. Raspberry Pi GPIO may work, but one user avoided risking it. [#20589284]

Which Tuya smart switch chips are supported by OpenBeken, and what should I know about TR6260S1, T34, LN882HKI, ESP8265, and BL2028N variants?

OpenBeken covered the Beken-like variants discussed, but TR6260S1 was treated as unsupported in this thread. BL2028N appeared on CB2S-labeled modules and flashed as a BK7231 variant. T34 and LN882HKI variants were later discussed in the same hardware family. ESP8265 units were flashed with Tasmota instead. TR6260S1 had 1MB flash and was called a “black sheep”; no tool or OpenBeken path was confirmed there. [#20579068]
AI summary based on the discussion. May contain errors.
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