CHIRP

Okay, first things first, lets try to rectify the situation. Using the OEM software to just read and write (or reset) the radio isn't going to resolve anything. You need to use the VIP software and use the "extra settings" thing (where the power-on message lives).

Open that up and write directly to the radio (don't read it first). Hopefully that will resolve things.

Second, if someone could post an image of their radio (as captured by CHIRP, NOT the OEM software) before they attempt the fix, that would be great.

Third, if anyone fixes their radio and can try breaking it again with CHIRP, please attach before/after images, as well as details about the procedure. I've not been able to reproduce it locally, so I'll need some help.

Thanks!

Dan,
Here are my findings in the attempt to restore the UV-5R:
1)Open OEM (VIP) software, open "Other" (see "UV-5R" in PONMSG, WRITE to radio = NO JOY, did not restore unit. SEE NOTES BELOW
2)Chirp image (biuld 20120608) of BRICKED radio: see attached file (UV-5R_BRICKED_IMAGE_BEFORE_VIP ...)
3) Unable to test further

Observations:
I did step #2 first (get image of bricked unit), shut down all apps, rebooted computer.

I then attempted #1. Upload looked to be successful but OLD VFO info was retained as was my OLD PONMSG (both lines 6 characters).

I then created a new image in the OEM software with the 2m and 70cm calling channels and uploaded it to the radio. my OLD PONMSG still remained but the channels were correct.

Also of note: my Kenwood/Wouxun/Baofeng USB cable has the "other than OEM" Prolific 2303 chipset. I am using the "correct" drivers for it.

I will keep the radio in its current state and be rady to assist you as you direct.

Jim
N9YKG

Okay, thanks for the details. I was able to successfully brick my radio with your image (hmm, sounds kinda weird). The good news is, I was able to unbrick it as well.

Please try to blow the attached image into your radio and report back. It should power on with an amber background and power-on messages of "AAAAAAA" and "BBBBBBB". It will be blank after that, but TX and battery levels should work fine.

Okay, glad to hear it thanks.

Those of you that have unbricked with this process are good to go, except that you shouldn't use 0608 to download from your radio. I'll push a change up to the repo and push out another build. I'll also send unbricking instructions to the group.

Thanks for your help!