EsMini Tool v3.2 – User Manual

The EsMini Tool v3.2 transforms your device into a universal diagnostics powerhouse. In addition to the standard UART and IR tools, this version introduces a fully functional 24xx EEPROM Programmer and secure Encrypted TCON Backups.

New in v3.2:
  • Integrated I2C EEPROM Read/Write (24C01 – 24C512).
  • Encrypted TCON PMIC Dumps with checksum validation.
  • UART Loopback Hardware Self-Test.
  • Dedicated Sony ID programming mode.

2. Keypad & Text Entry

The keypad layout remains consistent, but text entry (for naming files or remotes) has been enhanced in v3.2.

2.1 Standard Navigation

KeyFunction
ArrowsNavigate menus or adjust values.
OKSelect item / Execute command.
BACKGo back. Hold (2s) to return Home.
MENUContext menu. Hold (2s) for special actions.

2.2 Text Entry Controls (New)

When naming EEPROM dumps or new Remote folders:

  • UP / DOWN: Change character (Hold to scroll fast).
  • LEFT / RIGHT: Move cursor.
  • SOURCE: Toggle Charset (abc / ABC / 123).
  • MENU: Insert character at cursor.
  • POWER: Backspace / Delete character.

3. SD Card Setup

Format your SD card to FAT32. v3.2 adds new folders for EEPROM and Sony ID files. Ensure the following structure exists:

/RC               # IR Remote profiles
/SM               # Service Mode sequences
/ESMINI/CMD       # UART command lists
/ESMINI/TCON      # Encrypted PMIC dumps (v3.2+)
/ESMINI/EEPROM    # 24xx EEPROM .bin files (v3.2+)
/ESMINI/SONY_ID   # Sony ID .bin files (v3.2+)
        

5. 24xx EEPROM Programmer (New)

Directly read/write I2C EEPROMs (24C01, 24C02... up to 24C512).

5.1 Wiring

Connect SCL, SDA, and GND. Ensure the target EEPROM is powered (usually 3.3V) or power it externally if the board is off.

5.2 Reading (Backup)

  1. Select 24xx EEPROM from the main menu.
  2. Select the chip size (e.g., 24C32).
  3. Choose Read EEPROM -> SD.
  4. Enter a filename using the keypad.
  5. The tool reads the chip and verifies the file. Saved as .bin in /ESMINI/EEPROM.

5.3 Writing (Flash)

  1. Select Write SD -> EEPROM.
  2. Select the .bin file from the browser.
  3. The tool writes the data and performs a Read-Back Verify to ensure data integrity.

Note: The "Sony ID" menu option functions exactly like the EEPROM tool but defaults to the /ESMINI/SONY_ID folder for better organization.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 EEPROM "I2C Timeout" or "No EEPROM Found"

  • Check wiring (SDA/SCL swapped?).
  • Ensure the chip is powered.
  • Pull-up resistors (4.7kΩ) on SDA/SCL might be required if the target board doesn't have them.

6.2 TCON "Checksum FAIL"

  • This means the Dump file on the SD card has been modified or corrupted.
  • The tool blocks the write to protect the TCON. Re-save the dump from a working board.

6.3 UART Loopback "RX active, TX missing"

  • Data is being received, but it's not the test token.
  • Check for interference or if the device is connected to another active serial device instead of a loopback jumper.