Firmware Installation and Update
For a successful transition to custom software, the user must first verify equipment parameters. This is a critically important step that minimizes the risk of software failures ('bricking') and technical issues during subsequent updates.
Before starting, three key factors must be matched:
- Device Model: The exact model name and its specification (e.g., number of chips).
- Control Board Type: Processor architecture (Xilinx, BeagleBone, Amlogic, or CVitek), which determines firmware file compatibility.
- Installation Method: Starting from version 1.2.7, the firmware is installed only in NAND.
VNISH Compatibility by Stock Release Date (2026)
Direct Installation (Window Open):
- Before February 28, 2024
- From December 1, 2024, to September 28, 2025
Software Downgrade Required (SD-Recovery):
- March — November 2024 (installation is only possible after a downgrade via SD card).
Critical Lock (from September 29, 2025, to present):
- For XIL / BB / CV boards: Downgrade is still possible via the standard SD method.
- For AML boards (FR 1.20 firmware and newer): SSH is blocked, as is the ability to downgrade via SD. VNISH installation is available only through hardware unlock (activation of downgrade capability using the UART method described in the instructions).
Control boards based on CVitek have a specific memory operation algorithm:
- Reset to Stock: During a normal reboot, the device may spontaneously revert to the factory software.
- Phoenix Service: For stable Vnish operation on such boards, running the background service Phoenix-scanner (or rescanning via Toolkit) is required, which automatically restores the custom firmware.
Factory Bitmain firmwares (released after March 2024) often include protection: disabled SSH and prohibition of third-party software installation.
- Unlock Tools: Special Recovery/Unlock SD images are used to bypass protections, which 'downgrade' or unlock the control board for subsequent Vnish installation.
- Risks: Firmwares from September 2025 and newer may be completely incompatible with current unlock methods.
Board Identification
Vnish releases specialized builds for each architecture. An error in selecting the board type can lead to installation failure or incorrect device operation.
Unlocking the ability to downgrade AML control boards to an earlier firmware version for subsequent installation of custom Vnish firmware
On AML control boards with stock firmware versions released after September 2025, the ability to downgrade firmware using an SD card is disabled.