Extract the downloaded FirstChip zip archive and run the executable file (usually FirstChip_MpTool.exe ) as an Administrator. 2. Connect Your Drive
Keep the defaults unless you specifically need to match a certain manufacturer (standard is often 0951/1666 for generic drives).
If the tool reports "No Media," the NAND memory might be completely dead, or the firmware version is incorrect. Try different versions of the MPTool, such as FirstChip_MpTools_20220601 . firstchip fc1178bc firmware
Different versions of the firmware exist. The USBDev.ru database is the most comprehensive repository.
A common failure mode for FC1178BC drives is sudden "write protection." The firmware detects an error threshold in the NAND memory—essentially, it realizes the memory is failing—and switches into a read-only mode to preserve existing data. While this is a safety feature, it renders the drive useless for the user. The only fix is often a "low-level format," which wipes the data, or a firmware reflashing, which is a complex surgical procedure. Extract the downloaded FirstChip zip archive and run
If your drive is a "fake" 2TB drive that is actually 16GB, ensure Auto Create ID or Auto Size is checked to restore its real capacity.
To understand the firmware, one must first understand the hardware. The FC1178BC is a USB 3.0 flash memory controller chip manufactured by FirstChip, a company well-known in the electronics supply chain for producing cost-effective controllers. If the tool reports "No Media," the NAND
To repair a drive using this controller, you do not simply "install" firmware like a software update. You must use the manufacturer's mass production tool.
Finding legitimate, working firmware is the hardest part of this process. Most online sources are outdated, mislabeled, or infected with malware. Here is the breakdown of what you need.
The FirstChip FC1178BC is a widely used USB flash drive controller found in many budget and promotional thumb drives. When these drives encounter corruption, show "Write Protected," or report "No Media" with 0 bytes of capacity, flashing the correct firmware is often the only way to revive them.
Save the settings, return to the main screen, and click the button.