Whether it’s for flashing firmware or solving bootloader issues, EDL Point often comes up. If you’re a user of the Redmi Note 10, you might have heard of it as well. But what exactly is an EDL point? How does it work, and how do we utilize it? In this article, we will explore that in the context of the Redmi Note 10 device.
What is EDL Point?
EDL stands for Emergency Download Mode. In this mode, a device can communicate with a computer through a specialized USB cable or a flashing tool compatible with the said device. It is a diagnostic mode that is used on Qualcomm Snapdragon-based Android devices for various purposes. Its main purpose is to provide a way to recover a device that cannot be booted regularly.
How does EDL Point work?
EDL point helps to activate the EDL mode, and its whole working procedure depends on the hardware. To give you a brief idea, here is a step-by-step breakdown of it:
Entering EDL mode
EDL mode can be accessed via hardware key combinations or using specific test points on the device’s circuit board. Some devices have a dedicated EDL button that triggers it to enter EDL mode when pressed while connected to a computer. For devices that do not have an EDL button, you will have to sort specific test points on the device’s circuit board to force it into the mode.
Connecting USB cable
A special USB cable with the correct pin connections is needed to connect the device to a computer in EDL mode. This means a regular USB cable will not do; you’ll need one with specific resistors or other components to enable communication with the device in EDL mode.
Activating flashing tool
Once you have entered EDL mode, you will use a compatible flashing tool to communicate with the device and perform various operations. It could be flashing firmware, unlocking the bootloader, or recovering the device. The most common flashing tools for this purpose are Qualcomm’s QPST (Qualcomm Product Support Tool) or QFIL (Qualcomm Flash Image Loader).
Unbricking and firmware flashing
EDL mode is mainly used for unbricking devices that cannot boot into the regular operating system. This could be either due to software issues or failed firmware updates. So, while you are in EDL mode, you can flash the device with a fresh copy of the firmware and restore it to a functional state.
How to enter EDL Mode in Redmi Note 10
Since the Redmi Note 10 runs with a Qualcomm processor, specifically a Qualcomm Snapdragon 678, it is possible to access EDL mode using the available EDL points. Here is how you can enter the mode:
- Open the back cover: Turn off your phone and remove the back panel carefully.
- Remove the battery: To access the EDL points, you need a full view of the motherboard under the battery. So, remove the battery from your device. Don’t do it without turning off the phone first.
- Find out the EDL Point: It’s tricky to locate the EDL points in Note 10. On the back of the device, you will see circular dots in many areas, but not all are the correct EDL points. Usually, the dots that are the smallest in size are the EDL points. You’ll see two dots smaller than others somewhere on the upper middle portion: the EDL points. But if you are unsure or cannot locate it, seek help from a professional.
- Cut the points: Use a smooth tweezer to cut two dots.
- Connect the USB cable: Now to the final step. First, download the Qualcomm USB driver on your PC. Connect one end of the USB cable to your device and the other to your PC to establish a link.
Your Redmi Note 10 has now entered EDL mode. Your computer will be able to detect the Qualcomm USB QDLodar 9008 port. Now, you can do your desired task in EDL mode. It’s important to note that if you’re using the EDL mode to flash firmware, it might void warranties or violate the terms of service. Also, downloading firmware files from untrustworthy or unauthorized sites can lead to various issues. So familiarize yourself with the risks first before you dig into them.