Download the package from a trusted source. The archive typically contains:
🔐 Checksums (example – verify yours):
MD5:5a8b3c91d4e2f671a2b3c4d5e6f78901
If the drive appears as Unknown USB Device, reinstall the driver. firstchip fc1178 fc1179 mptools v1052 install
Now configure these essential tabs:
After installation, your drive should disappear from “My Computer” (this is normal). In Device Manager, it should now appear under Universal Serial Bus devices as FirstChip (FC1178/FC1179) USB Device. Download the package from a trusted source
If you see this, the driver is working. If not, repeat Step 1 and reinstall.
FirstChip tools utilize low-level kernel drivers that are often not digitally signed by Microsoft. Windows will block these drivers by default. If the drive appears as Unknown USB Device
For Windows 10/11:
Upon first launch, Windows may throw a warning: “Windows protected your PC” (SmartScreen). This is common for unsigned driver-based tools. You must click “More info” then “Run anyway”.
The tool will then attempt to install its own driver (usually a modified USB mass storage driver). You’ll see a command prompt window flash – this is normal. After that, you must restart your PC or at least reconnect your USB drive.
Important: Disable driver signature enforcement on Windows 10/11 (Shift + Restart → Advanced startup → Disable driver signature enforcement), or the driver installation may fail silently.