The CH341A-based Black PCB programmer (sold for $5–$10 on Amazon or eBay) usually comes with older software like NeoProgrammer or CH341A_1.30. While those work, ASProgrammer offers several advantages for advanced users:
ASprogrammer is a lightweight, open-source GUI software designed specifically for flashing SPI NOR flash memory (25 series). Unlike the clunky factory software that often comes with CH341A devices, ASprogrammer is intuitive, fast, and supports thousands of chips.
For Windows 10/11 (most common):
Using Zadig (recommended):
Manual driver install:
Is the CH21013 + ASprogrammer worth it?
Absolutely. For under $10 (programmer + clip), you get 80% of the functionality of a $100 Dediprog. It’s not the fastest (SPI clock ~3MHz), and you need to be careful with voltage levels, but for hobbyists and repair shops on a budget, nothing beats it.
Pro tip: Order two CH21013s. They’re cheap, and it’s nice to have a spare when you accidentally short something.
Have you used ASprogrammer with a CH21013? Share your BIOS rescue story in the comments below.
Disclaimer: Always back up your original firmware before writing anything. The author is not responsible for bricked devices.
The request refers to AsProgrammer v2.1.0.13 , an open-source software utility used to program memory chips (EEPROM, SPI Flash) via hardware programmers like the Overview of AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13
AsProgrammer is a popular alternative to the original proprietary software for the CH341A, often preferred for its improved stability, hardware support, and community-driven updates. Version 2.1.0.13_fix is frequently cited in technical communities (such as
) as a stable release for reflashing BIOS chips and fixing bricked devices. Key Features Broad Protocol Support : Works with SPI, I2C, and MicroWire protocols. Hardware Compatibility : Supports various programmers including: CH341A / CH347 (most common). (requires custom firmware). AVRISP-mkII Customization chiplist.xml
file that users can manually edit to add support for otherwise unrecognized memory chips Scripting Support
: Includes a script editor for custom operations like block erasing or specific write procedures. Practical Use Cases
AsProgrammer dregmod allow you to program flash ... - GitHub
, often used to "un-brick" or modify BIOS firmware on motherboards. The numeric suffix "
" in this specific context does not appear to be a standard version number or technical specification for the software. However, it correlates with a humorous community reference— Issue 21013 asprogrammer+21013
—which jokingly suggests that the use of candles is a "requirement" for code to run, poking fun at the sometimes mysterious nature of debugging and hardware flashing. Core Functionality of AsProgrammer
AsProgrammer provides a streamlined interface for interacting with various protocols and hardware: Supported Protocols : It allows programming of flash memory via protocols. Hardware Compatibility : Beyond the common CH341A, it supports devices like AVRISP-MKII (using a specific sketch). Typical Workflow
: Users typically follow a specific "order of operations" to ensure success: Verify Read Blank Check Verify Write Common Uses & Challenges Programming an eeprom with CH431A and Asprogrammer
The "proper" or most significant features of AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13 revolve around its role as a specialized alternative to the standard (and often bug-ridden) CH341A software. This specific version is widely recognized in the hardware modding community for its stability and improved hardware support. Key Features of AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13
Expanded IC Support: It supports a much wider range of SPI Flash, I2C EEPROM, and MicroWire chips compared to original manufacturer software.
Hardware Versatility: Beyond just the common CH341A, this version supports various programmers including UsbAsp, Arduino, FT232H, and CH347.
Automatic Unprotect: A critical feature for BIOS flashing; it includes an "Unprotect" function that removes write-protection registers from SPI Flash chips before attempting to program.
Verification Reliability: Users frequently switch to 2.1.0.13 to solve "verification failed" errors seen in older versions, as it handles chip timing and blank checks more accurately.
DPI Scaling & UI Improvements: Includes fixes for high-resolution displays (DPI scaling) and a more intuitive interface for managing scripts. Proper Usage Tips
Volt Modding: If you are using a black PCB CH341A, verify if it outputs 5V on data lines. It is often recommended to perform a 3.3V volt mod to avoid damaging modern BIOS chips.
NeoProgrammer Relation: The popular NeoProgrammer software was actually built as a modification and expansion of the AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13 source code.
Safe Flashing: Always use the "Read" function twice and compare the checksums of both files to ensure a 100% reliable backup before erasing or writing new firmware.
You can find the latest community-maintained versions and source code on the nofeletru GitHub repository.
AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13 is a widely utilized open-source utility designed for flashing and reading serial memory chips, specifically EEPROMs and SPI Flash. It is most commonly used in conjunction with the CH341A hardware programmer, serving as a more stable and feature-rich alternative to the official software often bundled with cheap hardware. Key Features of Version 2.1.0.13
This specific version is favored by technicians for its balance of stability and compatibility. Significant updates in this release include:
Broad Device Support: Handles various 24-series I2C EEPROMs and 25-series SPI Flash chips, which are standard in PC BIOS, TV firmware, and router configurations. The CH341A-based Black PCB programmer (sold for $5–$10
Hardware Versatility: While primarily used with the CH341A, it also supports USBASP, Arduino-based programmers, and the Bus Pirate.
Improved UI: The 2.1.0.13 update introduced a UI that remembers the last window position and the last used component, reducing setup time for repetitive tasks.
Safety Protocols: Algorithms for reading and writing were rewritten in this version to prioritize data integrity and prevent chip corruption. Using AsProgrammer for Firmware Recovery
AsProgrammer is a "portable" application, meaning it does not require installation. You can run it directly from its folder after downloading.
Hardware Connection: Connect your programmer (like the CH341A) to the PC. If you are flashing a chip still on a motherboard, use a SOP8 test clip.
Detection: Click "Read ID" to allow the software to automatically identify the chip. If the chip is not detected, you may need to manually select it from the extensive chiplist.xml database. Operations:
Read: Creates a backup of the current firmware. Always save this as a .bin file before making changes. Erase: Clears the chip's memory before writing new data. Program: Writes your new firmware file to the chip.
Verify: Compares the data on the chip against your source file to ensure there were no errors during the write process. Why Professionals Prefer AsProgrammer
Unlike the standard CH341A software, which often suffers from translation issues and limited chip databases, AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13 allows for custom scripts and manual editing of the chip list. This makes it possible to support newer 1.8V chips (like the W25Q256JW) by simply adding a line of code to the software's XML configuration.
AsProgrammer dregmod allow you to program flash ... - GitHub
AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13 is a widely recognized version of the open-source AsProgrammer software , primarily used as a powerful alternative to the stock software bundled with the CH341A USB programmer.
This specific build is often sought after for its stability and improved support for a variety of SPI Flash and EEPROM chips. Below is an in-depth guide to using AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13 for hardware hacking, BIOS recovery, and firmware dumping. What is AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13?
AsProgrammer is a portable Windows utility that facilitates reading, writing, and erasing various serial memory chips. Version 2.1.0.13 (often including the "fix" tag in community forums like 4PDA ) is favored because it addresses several UI scaling issues and extends the database of supported Integrated Circuits (ICs). Key features of this version include:
Broad Protocol Support: Works with SPI, I2C, and MicroWire protocols.
Hardware Versatility: Compatible with CH341A , UsbAsp, Arduino-based programmers, and even the Bus Pirate .
Portable Design: No installation required—simply run the executable to begin. Using Zadig (recommended):
Multilingual Interface: Supports English, Russian, and French. Step-by-Step Guide: Programming an IC
Using AsProgrammer with a CH341A is a standard practice for "unbricking" motherboards or routers. 1. Setup and Connection
Drivers: Ensure you have the CH341PAR driver installed for your programmer to be recognized by Windows.
Hardware Connection: Connect your IC to the programmer. If using a SOIC8 clip, ensure Pin 1 (marked with a dot on the chip) aligns with the Pin 1 indicator on the programmer. 2. Software Configuration
Select Programmer: In the Hardware menu, select your device (e.g., CH341A).
Identify the Chip: Click the Read ID button (icon with a question mark). If successful, the software will automatically identify the manufacturer and chip model (e.g., W25Q64FV).
Manual Selection: If auto-detection fails, use the IC menu to manually navigate through the database by manufacturer and model. 3. Core Operations
Reading: Click Read IC. This dumps the current firmware into the buffer. Always save a backup (File > Save) before modifying anything.
Erasing: Use the Erase IC button before writing new data. Most Flash chips require a clean state to accept new programming.
Writing: Open your new firmware file (.bin or .hex), then click Program IC.
Verification: Click Verify IC to compare the chip’s content with your file. If they match, the process is successful. Advanced Tips for Version 2.1.0.13
Unprotecting Chips: Some chips have a "Write Protect" (WP) bit enabled. Use the Unprotect icon (not the dropdown) to clear these bits before attempting to write.
Adding Custom Chips: If your chip isn't in the list, you can manually edit the chiplist.xml file. By adding a new entry with the correct ID, page size, and memory size, you can extend the software's capabilities.
Voltage Caution: Many modern BIOS chips run at 1.8V, while standard CH341A programmers output 3.3V. For 1.8V chips, use a step-down adapter to avoid permanent hardware damage. Comparison: AsProgrammer vs. NeoProgrammer
While both are excellent, many users prefer AsProgrammer 2.1.0.13 for its script support and more granular control over status registers. However, NeoProgrammer is often cited for having a slightly more modern UI and faster detection for certain newer SPI chips.
Windows 10/11 often misidentifies the CH341A as a "USB-EPP/I2C" device but fails to load the correct driver.
Verification: Open Device Manager. Under "LPT and COM ports," you should see "CH341A" or "USB-SERIAL CH341A."