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iCopy-XS: Fixing the "Boot Timeout" problem
Each iCopy-XS has an internal microSD card that stores its operating system and files. If your iCopy-XS is showing the dreaded "BOOT TIMEOUT" error - it means that there's a problem with your device's microSD card - and so the device can't boot.
Potentially, there are multiple causes for the problem:
- MicroSD card is incorrectly seated (poor connection)
- MicroSD is corrupted due to unsafe unmounting (unexpected power down)
- MicroSD is fatigued due to too many read / write cycles
- MicroSD is dead
If your device arrived in this state and you purchased your device from Lab401.com or iCopyX.com - please reach out to customer support for DOA assistance.
Fortunately, even if you're out of warranty, this problem can be fixed quickly and easily by re-writing the existing card, or writing a new microSD card. You don't need any specialist tools - no soldering is required, no screwdrivers required.
We recommend replacing the microSD card with a new microSD card of reliable provenance and decent quality.
IMPORTANT: Depending on the hardware version of your device - how to open it, and where to find the SD card are different. On your device, go to the "About" screen.
If your "HW" version is 1.7, you have an older device - with a more accessible microSD card.
If your "HW" version is above 1.7, ie 1.10, you have an newer device - more difficult to open, and a few extra steps to retrieve the SD card.
Click your hardware version below to jump to instructions for your device:
- Older device: HW version 1.7
- Newer device: HW version 1.10
- A new microSD card of at least 32GB
- The iCopy-XS microSD image, downloaded here: iCopy-XS microSD Image
- A tool to write the microSD image (we recommend Balena Etcher)
- Some type of thin plastic opening tool
- A new microSD card of at least 32GB
- The iCopy-XS microSD image, downloaded here: iCopy-XS microSD Image
- A tool to write the microSD image (we recommend Balena Etcher)
- Simple plastic opening tools
Older devices
You will need:
IMPORTANT: This is an image for the iCopy-XS. If you have another version, this procedure may fail!
The SD Image ONLY works on older devices. If you have a newer device, please see the instructions here.
Step 1
Getting access to the microSD card is surprisingly straight-forward. Place your iCopy-X on a flat surface, and prepare your tools.
Place your iCopy-X on a flat surface
Step 2
With an opening tool, gently work the tool between the metal part at the top of the device, and the grey body of the device.
You can use a dedicated opening tool, a guitar pick, or any other slim, sturdy tool. In order to not damage your device - we do not recommend using metal devices (screwdrivers, cutlery.. etc).
Use an opening tool to gently lever the top part out
Step 3
Work your way around the perimeter of the tool, and you'll finally be able to slide the metal part out.
⚠️ WARNING: The top component houses the speaker, which is connected by thin wires. Be careful when you remove the top, so you don't break or disconnect the speaker wires.
Gently separate the top part of the device
Step 4
The microSD card is situated at the top of the PCB. Depending on the make, model and manufacturing run of your device, the microSD card may be fixed in place with hot glue.
If that's the case, you'll need to gently remove the hot glue: we recommend using something like a toothpick to slowly lever it away. Do NOT use metal objects - if you slip, you may cut traces on the PCB.
Liberate the microSD Card
Step 5
The microSD is seated in a push-click style holder - so you'll need to push it in until you hear the click, and then you can remove it.
Remove the microSD Card
Step 6
Whether you're using a new microSD card or will take your chances rewriting the old one - it needs to be flashed.
Using a microSD adaptor and your computer, download the iCopy-XS image, and your image writer of choice (we recommend Balena Etcher).
Write the new microSD Card
Step 7
When the writing is complete, insert the microSD card into your device.
Insert the new microSD Card
Step 8
Close your device, and you're ready to boot!
Close the device
Step 9
Depending on the state of your device you may need to immediately update the device: https://icopyx.com/pages/update-your-icopy-x
The firmware is linked to your serial number - and so the software may need to be updated to bring the downloaded image up to date with your serial number.
Newer devices
You will need:
IMPORTANT: This is an image for the iCopy-XS. If you have another version, this procedure may fail!
The SD Image ONLY works on newer devices. If you have an older device, please see the instructions here.
Step 1
Getting access to the microSD card is surprisingly straight-forward. Place your iCopy-X on a flat surface, and prepare your tools.
Place your iCopy-X on a flat surface
Step 2
Turn your device over, and gently work in two opening tools into the sides of your device. They should be inserted near the top of the device sticker. Gently lever the back open - you can also use a third opener at the bottom of the device.
You can use a dedicated opening tool, a guitar pick, or any other slim, sturdy tool. In order to not damage your device - we do not recommend using metal devices (screwdrivers, cutlery.. etc).
Gently insert the opening tools
Step 3
The next step is delicate: if you work too quickly, you will break some of the device's closing tabs. It won't break your device, but it's best to avoid if possible.
Gently open the back part slightly, which will create a gap at the top of the device. Now you can gently wiggle the back part free of the top metal part.
Don't open the back too far, or you'll snap the closing tabs!
Step 4
Remove the backplate. ⚠️ WARNING: Do this carefully - the battery cable is attached to the device! Work gently and slowly - if you pull the too quickly, you can rip the battery connector from the PCB, which is very difficult to repair.
Separate the parts carefully and slowly
Step 5
Place a lever tool under the blue PCB as shown, and **gently** lever the PCB out of place.
Do NOT use a metal device as a lever!
Step 6
Now you can access the microSD card. Slide back the metal gate, and remove the MicroSD card.
Slide the metal gate back, and then open the tray to remove the card.
Step 7
Whether you're using a new microSD card or will take your chances rewriting the old one - it needs to be flashed.
Using a microSD adaptor and your computer, download the iCopy-XS image, and your image writer of choice (we recommend Balena Etcher).
Write the new microSD Card
Step 8
When writing is complete, place the microSD card back into the slot, lower it down, and slide the gate back. Double check it is firmly closed.
Ensure you slide the metal gate closed, and the microSD card is secure.
Step 9
Reposition the blue board as shown (the white clips on the blue PCB need to line up with the clips on the green PCB.
When settled in place, press each corner of the board gently but firmly. You will hear four clicks.
Ensure you hear FOUR clicks.
Step 10
Put the backplate in position - ensure the top slides under the metal part, and then click the back closed.
Gently push until the back clicks into place
Step 11
Depending on the state of your device you may need to immediately update the device: https://icopyx.com/pages/update-your-icopy-x
The firmware is linked to your serial number - and so the software may need to be updated to bring the downloaded image up to date with your serial number.
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