Hey,

I tried unlocking BIOS using a guide and seems like it's encrypted. I tried ticking the decrypt option in Andy's tool (PhoenixTool), the .mod file of DVECore still still doesn't include the "S.y.s.t.e.m..C.o.n.f.i.g.u.r.a.t.i.o.n". (That's what the guide instructs looking for, using a Hex editor, dots are 0x00s)

Anyways, there is an easy way that I want someone's opinion about. There's smaller .bin file in the HP Recovery USB (8MB), it has all the opinion unlocked in Insyde BIOS Editor (H2OEZE), I want to flash it, it seems like the unlocked version, but I can't see how that one could have a smaller size, and why no-one mentioned it existing. Hp says that there is no way to unlock the options on their site, they say that they already "optimized" the settings, that's something they should have mentioned if it's an option, but it's worth a shot.

Here's the link to the BIOS: https://ftp.hp.com/pub/softpaq/sp100501-101000/sp100754.exe

I'd really appreciate it if someone could shed some light on where I should be looking, and whether the BIOS is encrypted or not if possible. Thanks in a advance :)

P.s: i'll post more details if needed
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Bump

@Gearninja - This EXE contains BIOS image for three different model/families. The smaller one is not recovery, it's just for other model. When you flash BIOS normally, do you see any family ID, or maybe in BIOS main page?
It would be one of these two ID's below, do you see either of those anytime during a normal BIOS flash, or within any DMI info for your board (check with HWINFO64, or windows "System Info" maybe)
8477
8478
8479

What is your current ME FW version, and what CPU model do you have? This may be able to tell us which BIOS applies to your system, if you cannot find the above info

To answer you, YES, both 8/16MB BIOS images inside the exe are encrypted. YOu can run the exe, choose copy, and then decrypt the files out to your desktop or any folder.

I can maybe unlock either BIOS, but you'd need flash programmer before I sent you anything, because I am unsure and it may take 2-3 BIOS test to find correct menu unlock.
If you want exact correct edit done of first try, dump BIOS with programmer and upload and ask for help at BIOS-mods forum, they are Insyde BIOS Pro's over there.

Zitat

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@Gearninja - This EXE contains BIOS image for three different model/families. The smaller one is not recovery, it's just for other model. When you flash BIOS normally, do you see any family ID, or maybe in BIOS main page?[quote]

I haven't flashed through a flasher before, don't have one yet, but i'll check with HWInfo now to see if I can find it. I checked through System Info and it only shows the general version (F.21), i've attached a screenshot.


[quote]What is your current ME FW version, and what CPU model do you have? This may be able to tell us which BIOS applies to your system, if you cannot find the above info

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Where do I find the Intel Management Interface Firmware version? I've checked in system information and Google searched to know, they only talk about updating the firmware. I'll look into it and let you know. The exact CPU model is in the screenshot, it's a Coffee Lake 8th gen one with a UHD 630 iGPU.

Zitat

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I can maybe unlock either BIOS, but you'd need flash programmer before I sent you anything, because I am unsure and it may take 2-3 BIOS test to find correct menu unlock.
If you want exact correct edit done of first try, dump BIOS with programmer and upload and ask for help at BIOS-mods forum, they are Insyde BIOS Pro's over there.

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I don't currently have a flasher as mentioned, but i'm willing to give it a shot, if anything i'll get one


Update: I found the ID in HWInfo :) Thanks for letting me know about that! I would've flashed the other one blindly. The Motherboard model is HP 8478
Update_2: I found the intel ME Version in HWInfo too, it's 12.0, Build 1069

Check ME FW version with HWINFO64, where you see in below image (it may also be shown on BIOS MAIN Page)


Check CPU-z Motherboard tab, BIOS Main Page, and Motherboard or system summary info in HWINFO64 and or Windows "System Info" and see if you can locate one of the ID's shown above.
Also, run the stock BIOS update and go through that process too, if you can't find with above methods, maybe you will see the ID then too (usually it's shown)

What is your CPU model?

BIOS 08477 = ME FW v11 + CPU microcodes 806E9 + 806EA
BIOS 08478 = ME FW v12 + CPU microcode 906EA ONLY << So this probably your BIOS, if CPU is model that uses CPUID 906EA (Ohh, I see in your edit, you confirmed this is it, great )

If you want to pickup flash programmer, here's what you need. If you order slow shipped from China it's cheap (less than $7), maybe twice the price if you can find locally or pay more for faster shipping etc.
Here is examples of what you need on ebay, you can find from other sellers on ebay w/ faster shipping for more $$, or maybe more locally to you, also you can find these items in bundle/kits too.
Other shops that sell computer stuff usually have these as well, such as Amazon or Newegg type places.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/123255178089
https://www.ebay.com/itm/183425731977

Zitat von Lost_N_BIOS im Beitrag #4

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Check ME FW version with HWINFO64, where you see in below image (it may also be shown on BIOS MAIN Page)


Check CPU-z Motherboard tab, BIOS Main Page, and Motherboard or system summary info in HWINFO64 and or Windows "System Info" and see if you can locate one of the ID's shown above.
Also, run the stock BIOS update and go through that process too, if you can't find with above methods, maybe you will see the ID then too (usually it's shown)

What is your CPU model?

BIOS 08477 = ME FW v11 + CPU microcodes 806E9 + 806EA
BIOS 08478 = ME FW v12 + CPU microcode 906EA ONLY << So this probably your BIOS, if CPU is model that uses CPUID 906EA (Ohh, I see in your edit, you confirmed this is it, great )

If you want to pickup flash programmer, here's what you need. If you order slow shipped from China it's cheap (less than $7), maybe twice the price if you can find locally or pay more for faster shipping etc.
Here is examples of what you need on ebay, you can find from other sellers on ebay w/ faster shipping for more $$, or maybe more locally to you, also you can find these items in bundle/kits too.
Other shops that sell computer stuff usually have these as well, such as Amazon or Newegg type places.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/123255178089
https://www.ebay.com/itm/183425731977

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The one I linked above is generic one, can't get much cheaper than $3
You can get any as long as it's CH341A or similar, can program type 25 BIOS chips, most will look similar to above linked one, or may have plastic shell covering it (those usually more expensive, and sometimes less compatible)

Zitat von Lost_N_BIOS im Beitrag #6

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The one I linked above is generic one, can't get much cheaper than $3
You can get any as long as it's CH341A or similar, can program type 25 BIOS chips, most will look similar to above linked one, or may have plastic shell covering it (those usually more expensive, and sometimes less compatible)

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Zitat von Lost_N_BIOS im Beitrag #6

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The one I linked above is generic one, can't get much cheaper than $3
You can get any as long as it's CH341A or similar, can program type 25 BIOS chips, most will look similar to above linked one, or may have plastic shell covering it (those usually more expensive, and sometimes less compatible)

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@Gearninja - Here is how we see about FPT flashing, you will get error at #2, tell me error # and send me file from #1, then we see if I can help you get past error at #2
Also, once you get the correct ME System tools package, from the MEInfo/win32 folder, run this command and show me image of the end of the report >> MEINFOWin.exe -verbose

Yes, you can use Pi to dump/write BIOS, provided you can make a working setup and find known working software/method.
I cannot advise on that, I've never used so I don't know about any of it. There is some guides about it here too, look around in search or via google search >> Raspberry Programmer site:win-raid.com

I'll get you the ME extracted info and update this reply

Thanks for letting me know about the thread, I should have the parts today, if God wills

I'm planning to post the .bin here as soon as i extract it through the PI method.

Update 1: I got that version since my chipset is an intel HM370 , 300 series and ME version is 12
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it's too much, so I thought it's best to post in a seperate reply:
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Zitat von Lost_N_BIOS im Beitrag #9

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@Gearninja - Here is how we see about FPT flashing, you will get error at #2, tell me error # and send me file from #1, then we see if I can help you get past error at #2
Also, once you get the correct ME System tools package, from the MEInfo/win32 folder, run this command and show me image of the end of the report >> MEINFOWin.exe -verbose

Yes, you can use Pi to dump/write BIOS, provided you can make a working setup and find known working software/method.
I cannot advise on that, I've never used so I don't know about any of it. There is some guides about it here too, look around in search or via google search >> Raspberry Programmer site:win-raid.com

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Zitat von Lost_N_BIOS im Beitrag #9

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@Gearninja - Here is how we see about FPT flashing, you will get error at #2, tell me error # and send me file from #1, then we see if I can help you get past error at #2
Also, once you get the correct ME System tools package, from the MEInfo/win32 folder, run this command and show me image of the end of the report >> MEINFOWin.exe -verbose

Yes, you can use Pi to dump/write BIOS, provided you can make a working setup and find known working software/method.
I cannot advise on that, I've never used so I don't know about any of it. There is some guides about it here too, look around in search or via google search >> Raspberry Programmer site:win-raid.com

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@Gearninja - Wow bud, please use edit button if no one has replied yet, instead of making many posts in a row, thanks

I didn't need MEINFO output, unless I requested it and forgot? If I did, I probably only requested this output, and for you to show me IMAGE of the bottom of report only >> MEINFOWIN.exe -verbose
I see you did run verbose there, but it's a mess, please show me IMAGE of the bottom of report only, thanks.

BE VERY CAREFUL with FPT!!!! You can brick your board in a second with one wrong command and enter button!!
I am not sure what error you are talking about, or trying to get?? If it's from the FPT BIOS region dump spoiler I sent you, then follow along below again exactly as outlined

Zitat von Lost_N_BIOS im Beitrag #11

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@Gearninja - Wow bud, please use edit button if no one has replied yet, instead of making many posts in a row, thanks

I didn't need MEINFO output, unless I requested it and forgot? If I did, I probably only requested this output, and for you to show me IMAGE of the bottom of report only >> MEINFOWIN.exe -verbose
I see you did run verbose there, but it's a mess, please show me IMAGE of the bottom of report only, thanks.

BE VERY CAREFUL with FPT!!!! You can brick your board in a second with one wrong command and enter button!!
I am not sure what error you are talking about, or trying to get?? If it's from the FPT BIOS region dump spoiler I sent you, then follow along below again exactly as outlined

If you have already modified the BIOS in ANY way, you will need to re-flash it back to factory defaults using factory method (NOT FPT)!!!
Additionally, please remove all BIOS passwords, disable secure boot, and disable TPM or Encryption if you have enabled. Do this before moving on to below

If you do not have Intel ME drivers installed, install them now from your system driver download page, then start over here after reboot.
Check your BIOS' main page and see if ME FW version is shown. If not then > DOWNLOAD HWINFO64 HERE <

Once HWINFO is open, look at the large window on the left side, expand motherboard, and find the ME area.
Inside that section is the ME Firmware version. Take note of the version. (ie. write it down or get a screenshot)

Once you have that, go to the thread linked below, and in the section "C.2" find and download the matching ME System Tools Package for your system.
(ie if ME FW version = 10.x get V10 package, if 9.0-9.1 get V9.1 package, if 9.5 or above get V9.5 package etc)
> DOWNLOAD " ME System Tools " packages HERE <

Once downloaded, inside you will find Flash Programming Tool folder, and then inside that a Windows or Win/Win32 folder (NOT x64).
Highlight that Win/Win32 folder, then hold shift and press right click. Choose "open command window here" (Not power shell! >> * See Registry file below *).

If you get an error, reply to this post with a screenshot of it, OR write down the EXACT command entered and the EXACT error given.

((If "open command window here" does not appear, look for the "Simple Registry Edit" below...))

Step #1
Now you should be at the command prompt.
You are going to BACKUP the factory un-modified firmware, so type the following command:
Command: " FPTw.exe -bios -d biosreg.bin "

>> Attach the saved "biosreg.bin ", placed into a compressed ZIP/RAR file, to your next post!!! <<

Step #2
Right after you do that, try to write back the BIOS Region dump and see if you get any error(s).
Command: " FPTw.exe -bios -f biosreg.bin "
^^ This step is important! Don't forget! ^^

If you get an error, reply to this post with a screenshot of it, OR write down the EXACT command entered and the EXACT error given.

Here is a SIMPLE REGISTRY EDIT that adds "Open command window here as Administrator" to the right click menu, instead of Power Shell
Double-click downloaded file to install. Reboot after install may be required
> CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD CMD PROMPT REGISTRY ENTRY <

If the windows method above does NOT work for you...
Then you may have to copy all contents from the Flash Programming Tool \ DOS folder to the root of a Bootable USB disk and do the dump from DOS
( DOS command: " FPT.exe -bios -d biosreg.bin " )

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@Gearninja - Razor can't be used to desolder BIOS chip, sorry to hear it was damaged. For Lead Free solder and removing BIOS chip, you need to ADD a lot of solder on both sides if you are not really good at soldering, then heat up both sides as much as you can, alternating, then you can lift off one side at a time or both, then remove the excess solder once done.
If chip is damaged, just purchase a new chip, they are only $3 or so usually, on ebay. You do not need one that is pre-programmed.
Any of the following will work (or match to your original)
EF4018 (Winbond W25Q128)
1C7018 (EON EN25QH128)
EF4017 (Winbond W25Q64)
207018 (Unknown) << This must be your original XMC XM25QH128A - Yes, confirmed via Google
C84018 (GigaDevice GD25x128)

Just make sure you do not get 1.8V chip, you need 3-3.3V chip

Zitat von Lost_N_BIOS im Beitrag #13

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@Gearninja - Razor can't be used to desolder BIOS chip, sorry to hear it was damaged. For Lead Free solder and removing BIOS chip, you need to ADD a lot of solder on both sides if you are not really good at soldering, then heat up both sides as much as you can, alternating, then you can lift off one side at a time or both, then remove the excess solder once done.
If chip is damaged, just purchase a new chip, they are only $3 or so usually, on ebay. You do not need one that is pre-programmed.
Any of the following will work (or match to your original)
EF4018 (Winbond W25Q128)
1C7018 (EON EN25QH128)
EF4017 (Winbond W25Q64)
207018 (Unknown) << This must be your original XMC XM25QH128A - Yes, confirmed via Google
C84018 (GigaDevice GD25x128)

Just make sure you do not get 1.8V chip, you need 3-3.3V chip

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