This error typically appears in tools like SP Flash Tool, MTK Client, or various "unlock boxes" (UnlockTool, Chimera, etc.). Here is a deep dive into what this means and what you can do about it. What is BROM?
on modern MediaTek devices (post-2020).
Disclaimer: Proceeding with hardware-level repairs (like ISP) requires expertise and can lead to permanent damage to your device. If you want to try troubleshooting, could you tell me: brom disabled by efuse 0x146
When a flashing tool detects 0x146 , it means the chip's internal eFuse array has been hard-burned to . The device explicitly blocks any raw, low-level read or write commands to the processor before the Preloader stage runs. Why do OEMs blow this fuse?
But what if a bug is found in that ROM after millions of chips are sold? You can't change hardware. So designers include efuses —tiny electronic fuses you can blow once. Each blown fuse changes a configuration bit forever. This error typically appears in tools like SP
As a result, traditional MTK tool commands throw the fatal error: BROM disabled by efuse 0x146 . 4. Hardware and Software Workarounds
While the "0x146" fuse means the "easy" door is locked, the "Preloader" door is usually still cracked open if you have the right authentication files. on modern MediaTek devices (post-2020)
To understand the problem, you first need to know how a MediaTek chip starts up.
Init BROM... OK Force Charge... OK Disable WatchDog Timer... OK Brom disabled by Efuse[0x146]
code is a hardware-level flag indicating that the path to this emergency port is physically "blown" or electronically severed. Permanent Lockout
If you are a mobile technician, Android developer, or an advanced enthusiast working with chipsets, encountering the error "BROM disabled by eFuse 0x146" is a modern flashing nightmare.