Mt8163 Scatter File [cracked] 🆒 ⏰

MT8163 scatter file is a critical text-based configuration file used by MediaTek's SP Flash Tool

to map the partition structure of devices powered by the MT8163 chipset, such as the Amazon Fire HD 8 (2017/2018) or various Acer Iconia tablets. It defines the physical addresses, sizes, and file names for partitions like the preloader, boot, recovery, and system. Where to Find MT8163 Scatter Files

Since scatter files are device-specific (partition sizes can vary between manufacturers), it is best to obtain one tailored to your specific model. Official Firmware

: The safest way to get a scatter file is to extract it from the official stock ROM or firmware package for your specific device. Community Repositories GitHub (powkiddyx)

: A sample MT8163 scatter file used for certain handheld devices. Hovatek Forums

: A common resource for generating scatter files from rooted tablets or finding device-specific dumps. Scribd Guides

: Detailed platform configuration guides that include partition layouts for the MT8163. How to Generate a Scatter File

If you cannot find a pre-made file for your device, you can generate one yourself using these tools:

: This is currently one of the most reliable tools for MT8163 devices. You can use it to analyze a full ROM dump (readback) and automatically create a corresponding scatter file. MTK Droid Tools

: Historically popular, but often incompatible with newer 64-bit chips like the MT8163. It may work for very early versions of Android (4.4/5.0) on this chipset. Miracle Box / Miracle Thunder

: Professional service tools that can read the partition table directly from a connected device to create a scatter file. Common Uses Flashing Stock ROMs

: Used with SP Flash Tool to restore a bricked device to factory settings. ROM Backups

: Necessary for performing a "Readback" in SP Flash Tool to save a copy of your device's current firmware. Custom Recovery

: Used to flash TWRP or other custom recoveries to specific partitions.

Exploring the Amazon Echo Dot, Part 2: Into MediaTek utility hell

White Paper: Technical Analysis and Structure of the MT8163 Scatter File

Date: October 26, 2023 Subject: Firmware Architecture and Partition Management for MediaTek MT8163 SoC

Typical MT8163 Scatter Layout

Here's a simplified example of what you'll see:

PRELOADER 0x0
PMT 0x80000
TEE1 0x180000
UBOOT 0x380000
BOOT_IMG 0x580000
RECOVERY 0x780000
SEC_STATIC 0x980000
MISC 0xa80000
LOGO 0xb80000
EXPDB 0xc80000
ANDROID 0xd80000
CACHE 0x4d80000
USRDATA 0xcd80000

Note: Actual addresses vary by OEM and eMMC size. Always use the scatter provided with your specific firmware.

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive technical overview of the scatter file utilized in the MediaTek MT8163 System-on-Chip (SoC) environment. The scatter file acts as the memory map blueprint for the device, dictating how firmware partitions are allocated, sized, and flashed onto the device's Non-Volatile Memory (NVM). Understanding the syntax and structure of this file is critical for firmware engineers, ROM developers, and security researchers involved in unbricking, porting operating systems, or modifying partition layouts on Android tablets and IoT devices powered by the MT8163.

Part 5: Editing the MT8163 Scatter File (For Advanced Users)

Sometimes you need to modify the scatter file—for example, to resize the system partition for a GSI (Generic System Image) or to exclude user data.

Why Is the MT8163 Scatter Special?

While all MediaTek chips use scatter files, the MT8163 has a few noteworthy quirks:

  1. DDR Timing & Preloader: The preloader partition address is critical – flashing to the wrong offset bricks the device.
  2. No separate lk.bin: Unlike some MTK chips, the MT8163 embeds little kernel (LK) in boot.img or uses preloader + trustzone.
  3. eMMC vs. NAND: MT8163 almost always uses eMMC, so scatter entries include linear_start_addr and physical_start_addr.
  4. Android 7–9 support: The scatter format evolved slightly – older scatters omit partition_index; newer ones include it.

2.1 Header Section

The header typically identifies the platform and the format version. mt8163 scatter file

# General Configuration
- platform: MT8163
- project: s1000_64
- flavour: full
- output: MT8163_Android_scatter.txt

MT8163 Scatter File Template (Standard Layout)

You can copy the code below and save it as MT6735_Android_scatter.txt (SP Flash Tool reads the content, not just the filename).

# General Configuration
# This is a generic scatter for MT8163 platform
# Warning: Partition sizes may vary by specific device model.

    

  • 

    general: MTK_PLATFORM_CFG
info:
    

      

    • config_version: V1.1.2
platform: MT8163
project: generic_8163
storage: EMMC
boot_channel: MSDC_0
block_size: 0x20000
      • 

    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS0
partition_name: PRELOADER
file_name: preloader.bin
is_download: true
type: SV5_BL_BIN
linear_start_addr: 0x0
physical_start_addr: 0x0
partition_size: 0x100000
region: EMMC_BOOT_1
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: BOOTLOADERS
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS1
partition_name: DSP_BL
file_name: dsp_bl.bin
is_download: false
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x100000
physical_start_addr: 0x100000
partition_size: 0x100000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: PROTECTED
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS2
partition_name: MBR
file_name: mbr.bin
is_download: true
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x200000
physical_start_addr: 0x200000
partition_size: 0x80000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS3
partition_name: EBR1
file_name: ebr1.bin
is_download: true
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x280000
physical_start_addr: 0x280000
partition_size: 0x80000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS4
partition_name: PRO_INFO
file_name: pro_info.bin
is_download: false
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x300000
physical_start_addr: 0x300000
partition_size: 0x300000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: PROTECTED
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS5
partition_name: NVRAM
file_name: nvram.bin
is_download: false
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x600000
physical_start_addr: 0x600000
partition_size: 0x500000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: PROTECTED
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS6
partition_name: PROTECT_F
file_name: protect_f.bin
is_download: false
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0xB00000
physical_start_addr: 0xB00000
partition_size: 0xA00000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: PROTECTED
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS7
partition_name: PROTECT_S
file_name: protect_s.bin
is_download: false
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x1500000
physical_start_addr: 0x1500000
partition_size: 0xA00000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: PROTECTED
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS8
partition_name: LK
file_name: lk.bin
is_download: true
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x1F00000
physical_start_addr: 0x1F00000
partition_size: 0x60000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS9
partition_name: BOOT
file_name: boot.img
is_download: true
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x1F60000
physical_start_addr: 0x1F60000
partition_size: 0x1000000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS10
partition_name: RECOVERY
file_name: recovery.img
is_download: true
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x2F60000
physical_start_addr: 0x2F60000
partition_size: 0x1000000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS11
partition_name: LOGO
file_name: logo.bin
is_download: true
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x3F60000
physical_start_addr: 0x3F60000
partition_size: 0x800000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS12
partition_name: EXPDB
file_name: expdb.bin
is_download: false
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0x4760000
physical_start_addr: 0x4760000
partition_size: 0xA00000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: PROTECTED
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS13
partition_name: ANDROID
file_name: system.img
is_download: true
type: YAFFS_IMG
linear_start_addr: 0x5160000
physical_start_addr: 0x5160000
partition_size: 0x80000000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS14
partition_name: CACHE
file_name: cache.img
is_download: false
type: YAFFS_IMG
linear_start_addr: 0x85160000
physical_start_addr: 0x85160000
partition_size: 0x10000000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS15
partition_name: USRDATA
file_name: userdata.img
is_download: false
type: YAFFS_IMG
linear_start_addr: 0x95160000
physical_start_addr: 0x95160000
partition_size: 0x5E8C0000
region: EMMC_USER
storage: HW_STORAGE_EMMC
boundary_check: true
is_reserved: false
operation_type: UPDATE
d_type: FALSE
reserve: 0x00
    

    • 

  • 

    partition_index: SYS16
partition_name: FAT
file_name: fat.bin
is_download: false
type: NORMAL_ROM
linear_start_addr: 0

The MT8163 scatter file is a critical configuration document used in the flashing and firmware restoration of devices powered by the MediaTek MT8163 chipset, such as various Amazon Fire tablets and budget Android devices. Written in a structured text format, this file acts as a "map" for the device’s internal NAND or eMMC storage, defining the exact memory addresses and partition boundaries for components like the bootloader (preloader), the recovery image, and the system software.

Without a scatter file, specialized flashing tools like SP Flash Tool cannot function. These tools read the scatter file to understand where each binary piece of the firmware belongs. If the tool were to write data to the wrong address—for instance, placing system data in the bootloader partition—the device would likely become "bricked" or unbootable. This precision is what allows developers and technicians to perform "unbricking" procedures, bypass FRP (Factory Reset Protection), or install custom ROMs. MT8163 scatter file is a critical text-based configuration

In summary, the MT8163 scatter file is the bridge between raw firmware data and the hardware's physical memory. It ensures that the flashing process is orderly and compatible with the specific architecture of the MT8163 platform, making it an indispensable tool for mobile software maintenance and development.

A scatter file for the MediaTek MT8163 chipset is a .txt configuration file that defines the device's internal memory map on its eMMC storage. It acts as a blueprint for tools like SP Flash Tool to know exactly where to write or read specific firmware components. 1. Key Structural Components

Modern MT8163 scatter files typically follow the v2.0 format, organized into general settings and individual partition blocks. MT8163 Platform Configuration Guide | PDF - Scribd

You're looking for information on the MT8163 scatter file.

The MT8163 is a system-on-chip (SoC) designed by MediaTek, commonly used in Android-based devices. A scatter file is a text file used in the flashing process of Android devices, particularly those with MediaTek SoCs. It contains information about the memory layout and the location of various components of the firmware.

Here is a basic outline of what a scatter file for the MT8163 might look like:

MEMORY
RAM:   0x80000000 - 0x803FFFFF
    ROM:   0x00000000 - 0x1FFFFFFF
PARTITION
name = preloader;      addr = 0x00000000;      size = 0x00010000;      type = 1
    name = bootloader;     addr = 0x00010000;      size = 0x00020000;      type = 1
    name = lk;             addr = 0x00030000;      size = 0x00040000;      type = 1
    name = lk2;            addr = 0x00070000;      size = 0x00040000;      type = 1
    name = trustzone;      addr = 0x000B0000;      size = 0x00060000;      type = 1
    name = tee;            addr = 0x40000000;      size = 0x01000000;      type = 1
    name = android;       addr = 0x41000000;      size = 0x100000000;     type = 0
    name = cache;         addr = 0x51400000;      size = 0x04000000;      type = 0
    name = userdata;       addr = 0x55400000;      size = 0x100000000;     type = 0

Explanation:

  • MEMORY: Defines the memory regions available on the SoC. For the MT8163, RAM and ROM regions are specified.
  • PARTITION: Lists the partitions that will be flashed, including their addresses and sizes. Common partitions include:
    • preloader: A small program that executes before the main bootloader.
    • bootloader: The main bootloader.
    • lk (Little Kernel): A component used in some MediaTek bootloaders.
    • trustzone: A secure region for TrustZone operations.
    • tee (Trusted Execution Environment): Similar to TrustZone, used for secure operations.
    • android: The main operating system partition.
    • cache: Used for cache data.
    • userdata: For user data storage.

This scatter file is crucial for tools like SP Flash Tool, which is used to flash firmware on MediaTek-based Android devices. It helps in accurately placing the firmware components in the device's memory.

If you're looking for a specific scatter file, ensure you obtain it from a reliable source to avoid any issues during the flashing process.

For MediaTek MT8163 devices, a scatter file is a text document that maps the storage partitions (like boot, recovery, and system) to specific memory addresses. It is essential for using the SP Flash Tool Methods to Create an MT8163 Scatter File

Since the MT8163 is a 64-bit chipset, traditional tools like MTK Droid Tools are often incompatible. You should use SP Flash Tool Readback Informer Technologies, Inc. 1. Using WWR MTK (Recommended)

This method is preferred for modern 64-bit MTK chips like the MT8163. Step 1: Generate Template : Open WWR MTK, go to , and select "Generating empty scatter file". Step 2: Set Chipset and the memory type (usually Step 3: Save

: WWR will create a temporary scatter file based on the chipset's default layout. 2. Using SP Flash Tool Readback (Manual Dump)

If you have a working device, you can "dump" its actual partition map. Step 1: Load a Generic Scatter : Use a basic MT8163 scatter file just to let SP Flash Tool recognize the device. Step 2: Readback : Go to the tab. Add a new entry to read back the Step 3: Extract

tool to open the resulting ROM file; it will extract the precise partition map and create a custom scatter file for your specific unit. Essential Requirements

To generate a scatter file for an chipset, you typically need to extract the partition map directly from your specific device to ensure the memory addresses match your hardware. How to Generate an MT8163 Scatter File

Since the MT8163 is a MediaTek (MTK) processor, you can use specialized tools to "read back" the partition information from the device: WWR MTK Tool

: This is the most modern method for newer MTK chips. You can use SP Flash Tool

to perform a "Readback" of the first few megabytes of your device's memory, then load that data into to automatically generate a valid scatter file. MTK Droid Tools

: A classic utility for older devices. If your MT8163 device has USB debugging enabled and is recognized, you can click on "Blocks Map" "Create scatter file" Miracle Box / CM2

: Professional GSM service tools (often available in "cracked" or loader versions) have one-click options to "Read Scatter" from a connected device in BROM or Preloader mode. Sample MT8163 Scatter File Reference

If you cannot generate one and need a reference for the structure, you can find community-uploaded versions on GitHub or specialized forums: MT8163 Android Scatter (GitHub) White Paper: Technical Analysis and Structure of the

: A scatter file for MT8163-based handhelds like the PowKiddy X18. MT8163 Configuration Guide (Scribd)

: A detailed document defining the 25+ partition layouts for this platform. Important Warning Never flash a scatter file from a different device

, even if it uses the same MT8163 chip (e.g., don't use an Amazon Fire tablet scatter on an Acer tablet). Doing so can result in a hard brick

because partition sizes and start addresses often differ between manufacturers.

Exploring the Amazon Echo Dot, Part 2: Into MediaTek utility hell

The MT8163 scatter file is a critical text-based configuration document used by MediaTek (MTK) flash tools, such as SP Flash Tool, to manage the memory map and partition layout of devices powered by the MT8163 chipset (commonly found in tablets like the Amazon Fire HD 8). Overview of MT8163 Scatter File Components

A typical scatter file for this chipset (e.g., MT8163_Android_scatter.txt) defines the specific boundaries for the device's eMMC storage.

Platform & Storage: Confirms the target as MT8163 with EMMC storage type. Partition Map: Usually includes 24 to 27 partitions. Key Partitions Defined:

Preloader: The initial boot code; critical for device communication with a PC.

Recovery: The partition used for system maintenance or custom recovery (like TWRP).

System/Userdata: Large partitions containing the Android OS and user files. Cache/Logs: Temporary storage and diagnostic partitions. Critical Technical Details

Address Alignment: It uses hexadecimal addresses (e.g., 0x0) to denote where each partition starts and ends on the physical storage chip. Block Size: Often defined with a block size of 128KB.

Compatibility: It is essential for "unbricking" a device. If the scatter file does not match the specific hardware version of the MT8163 tablet, flashing can permanently damage (hard-brick) the device. Common Use Cases

Firmware Flashing: Loading stock Android or FireOS onto a device.

Rooting & Customization: Modifying the boot or recovery partitions to gain root access or install custom software.

Memory Dumping: Creating a backup of the entire device's storage for recovery purposes. Where to Find MT8163 Scatter Files

GitHub Repositories: Specific hardware projects, such as the Powkiddy X, host verified scatter files for specialized MT8163 devices.

Community Forums: Technical guides on Hovatek and 4PDA offer troubleshooting and scatter file configurations for various MT8163-based tablets and car head units.

Documentation Sites: Detailed layouts are often uploaded to Scribd for architectural review. powkiddyx/MT8163_Android_scatter.txt at master - GitHub

Part 8: MT8163 vs Other MTK Scatter Files – Differences

While sharing a common format, MT8163 scatter files differ from other popular MediaTek chips:

| Feature | MT8163 (Tablet) | MT6580 (Phone) | MT6797 (Helio X20) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Preloader Name | preloader_mt8163.bin | preloader_mt6580.bin | preloader_mt6797.bin | | NAND/EMMC | eMMC 5.0 | eMMC 4.5 | eMMC 5.1 | | Region Count | 3 regions (EMMC_BOOT_1/2, USER) | 2 regions (no separate boot1) | 3 regions | | Typical system size | 2GB–4GB (sparse) | 1GB–2GB | 4GB–8GB |

Important: Scatter files are not interchangeable across chipsets. Flashing an MT6580 scatter to an MT8163 device will permanently corrupt the boot1 region.

MT8163 scatter file — quick reference

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