T80B-3520D v1.02
If your Smartwares DVR830 digital video recorder is stuck on the boot screen, shows a black display, or has become unresponsive, the problem could be due to corrupted firmware stored in the SPI flash memory. This guide provides a full solution, including a downloadable firmware dump and detailed instructions to repair and reprogram your device.
Before proceeding with the repair, here are the key specifications of the DVR unit:
Device Model: Smartwares DVR830
Mainboard Version: T80B-3520D v1.02
Flash Memory Type: SPI NOR Flash
Flash Chip: 25Q128 (16MB capacity)
Firmware Status: Dump file available, no password required
Common Issues: Boot loop, black screen, freeze during startup
Recovery Method: SPI flash programming using a programmer (e.g., CH341A)
Your DVR830 may require firmware repair if you experience any of the following:
The device is stuck on the logo or initial boot screen
All video outputs are black with no on-screen display
The menu does not load, and the device becomes unresponsive
Repeated rebooting without completing the boot cycle
Inaccessible web interface or mobile app
We provide a clean firmware dump extracted from a working Smartwares DVR830 unit with the T80B-3520D v1.02 mainboard. This firmware file can be used to restore your DVR’s functionality.
Firmware Format: Binary (.bin)
File Size: 16MB (for 25Q128 chip)
Protection: No password or encryption
To successfully restore your DVR830, follow these steps carefully:
Open the DVR case and locate the mainboard. The board should be labelled T80B-3520D v1.02.
Find the SPI flash chip marked 25Q128 on the board. It typically has 8 pins and is located near the main processor.
Use a programmer such as the CH341A, RT809H, or TL866II Plus. Carefully connect the clip or solder wires to the 25Q128 chip.
Before writing, it is highly recommended to make a backup of the current firmware in case it is still partially functional.
Use the programming software to:
Erase the chip
Load the downloaded dump file
Write and verify the data
Once programmed, reassemble the DVR. Power it on and wait for the boot process. The menu should now load correctly.
Make sure your programmer supports 25Q128 chips.
Do not interrupt power while writing the firmware.
Use a quality programmer to avoid incomplete writes.
If the device still fails to boot after programming, verify your dump file integrity or test a different flash chip.
Programmer: CH341A, RT809H, or TL866II Plus
Clip or Soldering Kit: For connecting to 25Q128
Computer: To run the flash software
Firmware Dump File: Provided in this post
Verified firmware dump for Smartwares DVR830 (T80B-3520D v1.02)
Readme file with flashing instructions
Free from password protection or encryption
This firmware dump is tested and compatible with the following configurations:
Smartwares DVR830
Mainboard T80B-3520D v1.02
Flash Chip 25Q128
If you have a similar DVR with matching board and chip, it may work, but use at your own risk.
If you encounter issues with the flashing process, don’t hesitate to ask for support in the comments or contact us via email. We also accept dump requests for other models and can help identify unknown boards.
Bringing your DVR back to life doesn’t have to mean buying a new device. With the right tools and a proper firmware dump, you can repair your Smartwares DVR830 easily. Follow the steps above, and you’ll restore functionality quickly and efficiently.