If you are working with the MediaTek MT8167 (commonly found in low-cost tablets, automotive head units, and smart displays), you have probably encountered the term "Scatter File" and the specific label "TOP" .
Whether you are trying to dump firmware, revive a bricked device, or perform a manual upgrade using SP Flash Tool or a similar utility, understanding these two concepts is critical. One wrong click on the wrong "region" can lead to a hard brick.
Here is what you need to know about the MT8167 scatter file, with a deep dive into the mysterious TOP entry.
This guide provides a basic overview. Specific details may vary depending on your device model and the version of the SP Flash Tool you're using. Always consult your device's specific documentation or relevant forums for the most accurate information.
A scatter file for the MediaTek MT8167 chipset is a configuration text file that acts as a blueprint for the device's storage architecture. It defines how the eMMC storage is partitioned, specifying the exact start addresses and sizes for every system component.
The "top" of an MT8167 scatter file typically contains general configuration settings and the initial boot partitions. Core Components of the "Top" Section
The header of an MT8167 scatter file usually follows this structure:
General Configuration: Identifies the configuration version (often V1.1.2) and the target platform (MT8167).
Preloader: This is the first partition listed. It is critical for the initial boot process and must be flashed to a specific physical region (often EMMC_BOOT_1).
Partition Indexing: A sequential list (e.g., SYS1, SYS2) that details names, operation types, and addresses for the first few system layers. Primary Functions and Use Cases
Flashing Firmware: Used with tools like the SP Flash Tool to map binary files (like boot.img or system.img) to their correct locations on the device.
FRP Bypass: By identifying the specific address and length of the "FRP" or "Config" partition at the top of the list, users can manually format just that section to remove Factory Reset Protection.
Device Recovery: Essential for unbricking devices by ensuring the preloader and bootloader are restored to their precise memory addresses. How to Obtain or Generate One MT8167S - SP Dump - Hovatek
* mt8167s_som_scatter.txt. * preloader_mt8167s_ref.bin.zip. * bootrom_8167.bin.zip. Size: 51.98 KB / Downloads: 35. MT8167 FRP Configuration Details | PDF - Scribd
For MediaTek devices like the , a scatter file is a plain text .txt document that acts as a blueprint or memory map for the device's storage. It defines how firmware images (like the bootloader, recovery, or system) are laid out across the physical memory partitions. General Structure of an MT8167 Scatter File
A typical MT8167 scatter file is structured into two main sections: a general configuration header and individual partition blocks. 1. Header Information
The top of the file contains global parameters that identify the platform and storage type: config_version: Usually V1.1.2 or similar for MT8167. platform: Identified as MT8167. storage: Typically EMMC for this chipset. boot_channel: Defines the boot interface (e.g., MSDC_0). 2. Partition Blocks mt8167 scatter file top
The MT8167 scatter file is a text-based roadmap used by SP Flash Tool to understand the memory structure of devices running on the MediaTek MT8167 chipset. It defines exactly where partitions like the preloader, recovery, and system reside in the device's eMMC storage. 🛠️ Key Components of an MT8167 Scatter File
A typical scatter file for this chipset contains approximately 25 to 26 partitions. Each entry includes:
Partition Name: Identifiers like PRELOADER, RECOVERY, or SYSTEM.
Physical Start Address: The hexadecimal location on the eMMC where the partition begins.
Partition Size: The total allocated space for that specific block.
Is Download: A boolean (true/false) telling the flash tool if this part should be written to the device.
Operation Type: Usually set to UPDATE or INVISIBLE depending on the partition's role. 📂 Common Use Cases You will primarily need an MT8167 scatter file for:
Firmware Flashing: Installing or updating the Stock ROM using tools like SP Flash Tool.
Unbricking: Restoring a "dead" tablet or smart device that no longer boots.
Bypassing FRP: Locating the physical address of the Factory Reset Protection (FRP) partition to format it manually.
Creating Backups: Using the addresses in the scatter file to "Read Back" and dump the device's current firmware. 🚀 How to Obtain or Generate One
It is always best to use the scatter file included in your specific device's official firmware. If you don't have it, you can:
[Revised] How to use SP Flash tool to flash Mediatek firmware
MT8167 scatter file is a text-based configuration file used by MediaTek's SP Flash Tool
to define the memory layout of an Android device. The "top" or header of this file contains critical metadata that dictates how the flashing tool interacts with the device's hardware, specifically its eMMC or storage controller. Header Structure & Key Parameters The top of an MT8167 scatter file typically begins with the config section, which includes: Config Version for newer MT8167 chipsets. : Identified as : The specific internal project name (e.g., full_mt8167 : Defines the storage type, almost always for this chipset. Boot Channel : Usually set to for eMMC boot. Block Size : Defines the physical block size, often First Partition Blocks
Immediately following the general configuration, the file lists the early-stage boot components. These are the most sensitive partitions because they handle the initial hardware initialization: : The very first block. It has no linear_start_addr If you are working with the MediaTek MT8167
because it resides in a special boot partition of the eMMC rather than the main user data area. PGPT (Primary GUID Partition Table) : The "map" of the rest of the storage. Recovery/Boot : Often the first partitions with a defined linear_start_addr Usage Context When using the scatter file in SP Flash Tool
, the header ensures the tool doesn't attempt to flash a ROM intended for a different chipset (like the MT8163), which would result in a "PMT changed" error or a hard brick. If you are performing a (dumping firmware), you must copy the linear_start_addr partition_size
from these top sections to correctly target the data you want to extract. TWRP port for MC Smart · Issue #38 - GitHub
Overall Verdict: A clean, well-structured, but dated configuration header. The top section of the MT8167 scatter file effectively defines the basic memory layout and flash parameters for MediaTek’s tablet-oriented SoC. However, its structure reveals both the chipset’s age (2017 era) and MediaTek’s characteristic verbosity.
Breakdown of the Top Section:
The scatter file begins with a clear preamble, which is critical for any flashing tool (SP Flash Tool, fastboot, etc.):
Pros:
Cons / Limitations:
Practical Use Case:
If you’re building a custom AOSP or LineageOS for an MT8167 tablet, this scatter file’s top section is sufficient but not elegant. It will work with SP Flash Tool, but you’ll need to manually adjust PRELOADER size if you modify U-Boot. For eMMC-based devices, it’s reliable. For raw NAND, proceed with caution.
Final Rating: 3.5/5
Functional and accurate, but the legacy EBR scheme and verbosity hold it back from being modern or minimal. For developers, it gets the job done — just don’t expect innovation.
MT8167 scatter file is a plain text document ( ) that acts as a blueprint or map for the flash memory layout of devices powered by the MediaTek MT8167 chipset. It is a critical component used by tools like the SP Flash Tool
to identify where specific firmware components—such as the preloader, recovery, and system images—should be written on the device's eMMC storage. Key Functions of the Scatter File Partition Mapping
: Defines the linear and physical start addresses for every partition on the chip (e.g., Firmware Flashing
: Guides the flashing software to place the correct binary files into their corresponding memory blocks without overlapping or exceeding partition sizes. Maintenance & Repair
: Essential for unbricking devices, performing full ROM backups, or bypassing Factory Reset Protection (FRP) by identifying the exact address of the FRP partition. Structure and Attributes
A typical MT8167 scatter file includes 23 to 26 partitions, depending on the specific device configuration. For each partition, it specifies: Partition Name : The identifier for the block (e.g., Linear/Physical Start Address : The hexadecimal coordinate where the partition begins. Partition Size : The maximum length of the data block. Operation Type At first glance
: Whether the partition is upgradable, visible, or requires a specific download status. Top Ways to Obtain or Generate the File
[Revised] How to use SP Flash tool to flash Mediatek firmware Dec 28, 2562 BE —
Below the general settings, the list of partitions begins. These are the ones you will interact with most.
PRELOADER This is the first code that runs when the device powers on. It initializes the hardware and loads the LK (Little Kernel).
PRO_INFO Contains protective structures and critical calibration data.
NVRAM / NVDATA This partition stores radio frequency (RF) calibration data and IMEI numbers.
BOOT (boot.img) This is the Android Kernel and Ramdisk. If you are flashing a custom kernel or Magisk, this is where it goes.
RECOVERY (recovery.img) Contains the recovery environment. This is essential for anyone installing custom ROMs.
SYSTEM (system.img)
The Android operating system itself. In modern Android versions (Android 8+ on MT8167), this might be split into system and vendor images, or use dynamic partitions (super.img).
Before we zoom into the "top", let us understand the context. A scatter file for the MT8167 is a plain text file (usually named MT8167_Android_scatter.txt). It tells the flashing tool how to partition the eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) or NAND flash.
A standard MT8167 scatter file is divided into two main domains:
The MT8167 scatter file top is not just a header—it is the contract between your firmware and the MediaTek BootROM. A single incorrect hex value in the block_size or emmc_boot section can transform a recoverable tablet into an expensive paperweight.
When you search for "MT8167 scatter file top," you are not just looking for a text file. You are seeking the master key to the MT8167’s memory architecture. Treat this file with the same respect you would a BIOS configuration on a PC.
Final Checklist before flashing:
If you answered yes to all, you are ready to flash. If not, stop—and edit that "top" section before you proceed.
Need a specific MT8167 scatter file for your device? Always extract it from the stock ROM using MTK tools rather than trusting a generic copy.
If you open an MT8167 scatter file in a text editor, you will likely see an entry like this:
- name: TOP
size: 0x0
region: EMMC_USER
address: 0x0000000000000000
At first glance, this looks like a placeholder. It has a size of zero (0x0), which means it stores no actual user data. So, why is it there?