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How to change the IMEI

Applies to all Brax devices

This guide applies across the Brax lineup. Where steps or files are model specific, we call them out explicitly so you can follow the correct procedure for your device.

Model specific notes

The database file names and tool settings below are for BraX3 (MediaTek Dimensity 6300). For a different model, use the correct AP and MD database files for that device.

Important: This procedure is advanced and uses third party tools that are not developed or supported by Brax Technologies. Proceed only if you fully understand the risks and legal implications.

This guide summarizes how to change the IMEI numbers on your Brax device using the MediaTek SN Writer tool on Windows. It is intended for legitimate troubleshooting use cases, such as restoring the original IMEI after it has been lost during flashing.

  • IMEI related rules vary by country. You are responsible for understanding and complying with local laws and regulations.
  • This guide is not intended to help anyone evade laws or engage in unlawful activity.
  • The software described here is third party software. Any risk or liability related to its use lies solely with the tool developers and you as the end user.

Only perform these steps on a Brax device that you own or are explicitly authorized to service.

What you need

On a Windows PC (32 bit or 64 bit):

  1. MediaTek USB drivers installed.
  2. The AP-DB package for your model.
  3. The MediaTek SN Writer tool (latest recommended version).
  4. A USB cable to connect the device.

Info

All tools and resources are available on our Tools & Resources page.

Make sure your device has enough battery charge before starting.

Configure SN Writer (model specifics)

  1. Extract the SN Writer archive and run SN_Writer.exe.
  2. In the ComPort dropdown select USB VCOM.
  3. In the Target Type dropdown select Smart Phone.
  4. Click System Config and in the dialog:
  5. In Write Option, check IMEI.
  6. In IMEI Option, check IMEI CheckSum and Dual IMEI.
  7. In Database File Option:
  8. Click AP_DB and select APDB_MT6835___W2421 from your model's AP-DB package.
  9. Click MD1_DB and select MDDB_MT6835_S00_MOLY_NR17_R1_MP3_RC_MP_V19_10_P3 from the same package.
  10. Click Save to close the configuration dialog.

Write the IMEI numbers

  1. Back in the main SN Writer window, click Start.
  2. In the Data dialog, enter:
  3. IMEI_1 – the 15 digit IMEI for SIM slot 1.
  4. IMEI_2 – the 15 digit IMEI for SIM slot 2.
  5. Double check that:
  6. each IMEI is exactly 15 digits (numbers only), and
  7. IMEI_1 and IMEI_2 are not identical.
  8. Click OK.
  9. Power off your device completely.
  10. With the phone powered off, connect it to the PC via USB.

SN Writer will search for the device, switch it into the required Meta mode and, if successful, write the IMEI values. When the process completes you should see a green PASS message.

Verify the result

  1. Disconnect the phone and boot it normally.
  2. Open Settings → About phone.
  3. Confirm that IMEI (SIM slot 1) and IMEI (SIM slot 2) show the expected values.

If the IMEI fields are still empty or unchanged, review the common issues section below.

Common issues and fixes

1. Device not detected / Meta mode problems

Symptom: SN Writer stays on "Start searching kernel com port and handshake" or reports that the target is not detected.

Checks:

  • Ensure the MediaTek USB drivers are correctly installed and, after installation, restart the PC.
  • Confirm that the phone is powered off before connecting.
  • Always click Start in SN Writer before plugging in the phone.
  • If Meta mode does not trigger, try holding Volume Down or Volume Up while connecting the USB cable.

2. Wrong or missing database files

Symptom: SN Writer fails early or throws errors related to database / load files.

Fix:

  • Use the exact AP and MD database files provided for your model in the AP-DB package.
  • Re open System Config and re select:
  • APDB_MT6835___W2421 for AP_DB, and
  • MDDB_MT6835_S00_MOLY_NR17_R1_MP3_RC_MP_V19_10_P3 for MD1_DB.

3. Invalid IMEI format

Symptom: The write operation fails immediately after entering the IMEI values.

Fix:

  • Each IMEI must be exactly 15 numeric digits.
  • Do not include spaces, dashes or any other characters.
  • IMEI_1 and IMEI_2 must be different.

4. Generic SN Writer errors

If you still get errors (for example "IMEI write fail" or other generic messages):

  • Reboot both the PC and the device, then repeat the steps carefully.
  • Try another USB port and, if possible, a different USB cable.
  • Check the SN Writer log files in the application directory for more detailed error codes.

If repeated attempts fail, stop and ask for help on the Brax community forums or from a qualified technician rather than guessing settings.