This error typically occurs when an Alcor Micro USB controller (common in flash drives and card readers) has corrupted firmware or is a generic/fake drive that the computer cannot identify. Understanding the Error
Unknown [FA00]: This is a generic status code returned by the controller when it fails to identify its model or flash memory chip (FID).
F/W FA04: This refers to the specific firmware version (or failure state) currently reported by the device.
Symptoms: The drive may show up as "No Media," "0-byte capacity," or "Disk is Write Protected". Potential Fixes
To recover the drive, you generally need a "Mass Production Tool" (MPTool) compatible with your specific hardware.
Identify the Real Chipset: Use a tool like ChipGenius or Flash Drive Information Extractor to find the actual Controller Part-Number and Flash ID (FID). Download the Correct Utility:
Visit specialized databases like USBDev.ru to find the version of AlcorMP that supports your specific FID.
For Transcend-branded drives, use the Transcend Online Recovery Tool which often resolves these "FA00" errors automatically. Run AlcorMP: Open the tool before plugging in the drive.
If the drive is not detected, use the "Driver" button in the tool to manually add your device’s VID/PID (Vendor and Product ID).
Perform a "High Level Format" or "Full Scan" to re-flash the firmware. alcor micro unknown fa00 f w fa04
Warning: Re-flashing firmware will permanently erase all data on the drive. If the FID shows a nonsensical value like 898989898989, the hardware likely has a physical electrical failure and cannot be fixed.
Do you have the VID/PID or the Flash ID from a tool like ChipGenius to help narrow down the right software? Alcor Micro - USBDev.ru
Not necessarily. If the NAND chip is intact and only the firmware is corrupt, reflashing with MPtool can bring the drive back to life—but your data will be lost. If the NAND has physical damage, the drive is e-waste.
If you consistently see FA04 and you have tried the drivers above, your device is likely dead. The FA04 status often means:
For a USB flash drive: This is irreversible. The data is not recoverable via DIY methods because the controller cannot access the memory map. You would need professional chip-off recovery.
For an SD card reader: Try cleaning the SD card contacts. If the reader shows FA04 even with no card inserted, the reader itself has failed. Replace it.
alcor micro unknown fa00 : Your device’s firmware is scrambled. Try manual driver installation or low-level MP tool recovery. There is a 60% chance of revival.alcor micro unknown fa04 : Your device is likely physically dead. The controller is alive but cannot see the memory. Unless you have soldering skills, recycle the device.f w in logs : This stands for “Firmware Write Failure.” The last operation attempted was a firmware write that failed, leaving the device in a FA00 limbo.In the world of USB controllers, the Alcor Micro Unknown FA00/F/FA04 error is a rite of passage. It reminds us that even simple flash drives contain complex microprocessors running fragile firmware. While the FA04 code often spells the end, the FA00 code leaves the door open for advanced recovery.
If you are not comfortable with pin-shorting or MP tools, the most practical solution for a $10 flash drive is replacement. But for the curious engineer, these codes offer a fascinating glimpse into the low-level diagnostic language of a failed controller.
Final verdict: FA00 = Try to fix. FA04 = Buy a new device. This error typically occurs when an Alcor Micro
When your computer identifies a USB drive as "Alcor Micro Unknown FA00 F/W FA04," it indicates that the firmware on your Alcor Micro controller (typically the AU6989SN series) has become corrupted or is in an uninitialized state. This error often manifests as a "No Media" or "0 Byte" capacity issue. Understanding the FA00 F/W FA04 Error
The code "FA00" typically refers to the controller ID or its status in a recovery mode, while "F/W FA04" identifies a specific (often factory or fallback) firmware version. This most commonly occurs on flash drives from brands like Transcend, Kingston, or generic manufacturers that use Alcor chips. Step-by-Step Repair Guide
To fix this, you must use a specialized "Mass Production Tool" (MPTool) to re-flash the controller's firmware. 1. Identify Your Specific Hardware
Before downloading software, you must confirm your hardware details using ChipGenius.
Controller Part Number: Look for something like AU6989SN-GT. Flash ID (FID): A code like AD 3A 14 AB 42 4A. VID/PID: Standard Alcor IDs are usually 058F and 6387. 2. Download the Correct AlcorMP Tool
The most reliable source for these utilities is USBDev.ru. For "FA00" errors, you should look for the latest versions of AlcorMP (UFD) or ALCOR U2 MP.
Recommended Versions: Look for versions released after 2018, such as AlcorMP 16.11.01.MD or newer, as they have better support for 98-series controllers. 3. Configuring and Running the Tool
Flashing firmware will permanently erase all data on the drive.
Preparation: Use a 32-bit Windows system (Windows 7 is often the most compatible) if possible. The controller is alive (Windows detected the VID/PID)
Launch: Open the utility (e.g., AlcorMP.exe) and then plug in the USB drive.
Setup: Click Setup (S). If prompted for a password, leave it blank. Scan Settings: Set Scan Mode to "Low Level Format" for a deep repair. Set AdjustPower to 500MA.
If the drive has many bad sectors, select "Capacity Optimize" under MP Mode.
Start: Click Start (A). This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on the drive's capacity. Troubleshooting Common MPTool Errors
30700: No Support Dual Channel: Your firmware version doesn't support the specific flash memory layout; try a different MPTool version.
50400: Too Many Bad Blocks: The hardware may be physically damaged beyond repair, though you can try "Half Capacity Check" in the settings to salvage partial storage.
Device Not Found: Ensure your VID/PID is correct. If they are 0000/7777, use the Alcor Change PID/VID Rework tool first to reset them to defaults.
Alcor does not publish drivers on their public website for consumers, but OEMs like HP, Dell, and Lenovo package them.
.inf and .sys files. For desktop users with a standalone reader, try the DriverPack or Snappy Driver Installer (use cautiously) to locate the specific AlcorMicro_USB_Reader driver version 10.0.18362.31252 or later..inf file.If the driver installs and the FA00 changes to a proper device name (e.g., "Generic SD Card Reader"), your issue is solved.
This paper addresses the technical identification of a USB device reporting the string "Alcor Micro Unknown FA00 F W FA04". This string typically appears in system logs (such as dmesg in Linux or Device Manager in Windows) when a USB Flash Drive or Flash Memory Card Reader is connected but the host system cannot immediately match it to a specific driver or product name.
The device is manufactured by Alcor Micro Corp., a prominent Taiwanese IC design house specializing in USB flash drive controllers and card reader controllers. The string indicates a generic controller firmware state, often associated with the AU6989 or similar USB 2.0/3.0 flash controller families.