Android engineering menu: detailed instructions for setting up your phone. Engineering menu "Android": description, settings Service menu mtk how to turn on the alert indicator

A beginner who has bought a smartphone or tablet based on the Android operating system, after a while, feels the need to reconfigure something in it or adjust it more precisely. Entering the Android engineering menu is simple: you just need to know the special commands.

The hidden engineering menu in Android devices allows you to manage system settings of your smartphone or tablet that are not available in the standard menu. For example, they allow you to increase the speaker volume during calls, forcefully select the frequency range of the network being used, enable a photo or video format that is not in the main camera settings, etc.

Parameters configured in the engineering menu

Using the engineering menu you can access functions such as:

• speaker or headphone volume;
• improved speech recognition;
• microphone sensitivity;
• voice quality when making calls;
• forced cellular network selection mode: “GSM only”, “WCDMA only”, “LTE only” (some network modes may not be available in the standard settings);
• binding to one base station, frequency or channel number;
• choice of technology and cellular data speed;
• testing and overclocking the processor;
• enable/disable sleep mode;
• testing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radio modules;
• auto switching 2G/3G/4G in sleep mode;
• camera test drive;
• changing the photo format (default is JPEG or PNG);
• fine-tuning the display brightness and its response to illumination;
• locking/unlocking auto answer settings for incoming calls;
• improved GPS performance;
• full “reset”, including factory formatting of the smartphone;
• testing and setting motion sensors;
• testing color rendering on the display;
• testing and setting up vibration alerts;
• backup of multimedia files;
• determination of the level of harmful radiation (SAR) on a single device;
• FM radio settings and behavior.

Video: smartphone customization options through the engineering menu

Commands for accessing menus

Commands for accessing the engineering menu vary depending on the manufacturer. There are also common commands for all versions of Android that allow you to configure individual device functions.

Main codes for entering the engineering menu

The commands you enter vary for different brands of devices - select the ones that suit you. It is not forbidden to check everything - commands that do not correspond to a specific manufacturer simply will not work.

Table: commands for accessing the engineering menu of various manufacturers

Google Commands for Android OS

Factory Android service codes, which show technical information about the device, are often not associated with the manufacturer. Basically, they are all built into Android by default. The range of “numbering” of commands has been agreed upon by Google - as the creator of the Android operating system - with manufacturers of tablets and smartphones.

Table: Android factory service codes

The most popular service codes of the engineering menu

The most popular codes that allow you to change smartphone settings through the engineering menu do not depend on the phone brand or Android version.

Table: service codes for changing phone settings

When using commands, keep the following in mind:

• By updating the camera firmware through the engineering menu, you can find out about the version of this firmware and the number of its updates - and also save this update to an image in the internal memory and on the SD card. It is not recommended to reflash the camera again - if it fails, you will simply ruin it;
• When you reset your Android system and delete all Google user data, a message asking you to confirm the reset will appear on the screen.

How to enter the engineering menu

To get to the engineering menu, follow these steps.

Video: how to open the engineering menu on Android

What to do if you can’t enter the menu

It happens that none of the commands intended for a particular brand of device are suitable - this is how the manufacturer protects inexperienced users from not fully thought-out actions. Some manufacturers, after software debugging of a smartphone, completely remove the engineering menu, and all of the above commands simply do not work. For example, Samsung does this. Some of the commands you enter can harm both the Android software and the device itself.

Often, instead of general service commands, more specific ones are triggered. If, despite all your attempts to “reach out” to the engineering menu, none of the service codes work, you need special applications.

Install the free Mobileuncle Tools application - it will distinguish between hardware and system settings. You may need to obtain Root access on Android. There are other applications: EngModeMtkShortcut, BetterCut, etc.

How to save settings

In order for the settings made using the Android engineering menu to be saved, you need to exit it correctly. While in any section of the engineering menu, use the on-screen “Back” key either in the menu itself, or press the cancel call button or the “Back” key under the display - it is indicated as a reversal arrow - to go to a higher level of the engineering menu.

It is not recommended to set the value of any setting and confirm it with the Set key, turn off or reboot the smartphone by pressing the power button, remove the battery from the device, etc. Exiting the engineering menu can involve pressing - sometimes holding for a few seconds - the same “Back” key below the display. When you exit the engineering menu, a message will appear on the smartphone screen asking you to save the settings you have made - confirm it. There are tips on some of the sections of the engineering menu:

The reason why the engineering menu still does not save the settings may be “raw” firmware. Find out which Android versions and builds are right for your device. If you have a branded smartphone with a version of Android that has pre-installed programs and components from Beeline, MTS, MegaFon or Tele2, feel free to install a “custom” version, for example, the well-known CyanogenMod assembly. Any earlier - or, conversely, the most recent - version of Android may be suitable.

In some cases, it is impossible to enter the engineering menu without obtaining Root rights. The task is to make an Android smartphone “rooted”. In other words, get “superuser” capabilities on your smartphone, allowing you to take the smartphone under the clearest and most complete control. This is achieved in the following ways, use any of them.

1. Install a custom (modified) version of Android on your smartphone. It already includes the Superuser software component, which provides access not only to the engineering menu, but also to the system folder.
2. Download from the Android Market any of the apps that can hack Android without using a computer. Different programs are suitable here: Universal AndRoot, Unlock Root, z4root, Revolutionary, etc. Not all of them can help - you will have to test everything until it works.
3. You can also try applications for Windows that perform all manipulations with Root access on a smartphone directly from the PC - for example, the VRoot program. You also need a USB-microUSB cable - it is impossible to hack Android on a smartphone via Wi-Fi.

After receiving Root privileges, the smartphone is ready to activate the engineering menu using third-party Android applications.

The more recent the version, the more settings in the engineering menu will be in Russian. In the earliest versions of Android (1.x, 2.x), all service settings were in English. Having learned a little technical English, you can easily remember the purpose of each of the settings and, if necessary, you can change them all in a few minutes.

The availability of the engineering menu - in whole or in part - is decided not by the Android version, but by the brand and model of the smartphone. Try different combinations and programs, but don't get too carried away.

If you perform inept actions or forget the entered codes, there is a risk of turning your smartphone into a lifeless device, and only a service center will be able to restore it to you. And since if you “root” the device, you automatically lose the warranty.

The Android engineering menu is one of the most useful tools for an “advanced” user, preventing him from wasting the hardware resource of his device and the resource of cellular and wireless networks. And it doesn’t matter what version of Android you have - 2.2, 4.2.2, 4.4.2 KitKat, 5.1, 6.0 or another - the engineering menu codes are determined only by the manufacturer. By completely subjugating your smartphone or tablet, you will deprive it of the opportunity to “live its own life” not according to your schedule, but according to the script of the manufacturer itself, cellular operators and other intermediary companies that are in one way or another involved in the operation of mobile equipment in cellular networks. This is the shortest path to professionalism.

And interesting features hidden from prying eyes.

Why are they hidden? Firstly, so that an inexperienced user does not break anything, and secondly, they are needed in especially rare cases and are not used regularly. Today we will talk about the engineering menu - a section for programmers, testers, geeks, experienced users and those who want to get into the very “heart” of gadget settings.

What is an engineering menu?

We are talking about a special program or system section that developers usually use at the final stage of configuring the software platform of a mobile device. With its help, they make final changes to the operation of the device, check the functioning of various sensors and test system components. Also, the hidden functionality of the service menu is used to obtain a large amount of system information, conduct various tests (about 25 pieces) and configure any Android parameters - various sensors, mobile networks, equipment, etc.

The engineering, service or system menu is available on smartphones and tablets running on a MediaTek processor. On the Qualcomm chipset it is either reduced or absent altogether.

Attention! This section is intended for experienced users who bear full responsibility for the consequences. Careless actions can harm the file system and render the smartphone unusable.

How to enter the engineering menu?

To enter the engineering menu, you need to enter a special command in the dialing application: *#*#3646633#*#*. On some versions the code *#*#4636#*#* or *#15963#* may work.

If the engineering menu code on Android does not work, or there is no dialing application on the phone (relevant for tablets that do not support calls), the MobileUncle Tools or MTK Engineering applications, which can be downloaded for free via Google Play, will help.

After entering the command or launching the application, the desired section will open. It may close immediately - you need to have “Developer Mode” activated on your smartphone. To do this, go to the gadget settings, find the kernel version there and quickly click on it 5-10 times in a row.

Engineering menu functions

The engineering menu is divided into several categories, each of which will be discussed separately.

1. Telephony. All settings related to mobile communications are located here. For example, you can activate or disable certain BandModes (frequencies for 2G/3G/4G operation), check the operation of SIM cards, and even disable mobile data transfer in the background.
2. Connectivity: Configure Bluetooth, Radio, Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi CTIA settings. For example, in the radio settings you can specify the radio wave, antenna type (you need to use headphones) and sound format (mono or stereo). The radio will play straight from this section.
3. Hardware Testing. In this section, you can configure the operation of various components of the device, in simple words, hardware: sound levels of headphones and speakers, adjusting microphone sensitivity, various camera parameters (photo aspect ratio, adjusting ISO, HDR, focusing and much more), operation of the touchscreen, sensors (calibration right there) and so on. This category is very large and global; you need to understand each section separately and have serious knowledge and skills.
4. Location. In this category, you can configure GPS operation, see how many satellites the gadget has picked up, and simply conduct testing.
5. Log and Debugging. Here, logs (logs) of the battery are kept (percentage of charge, voltage, operating time, temperature) and other functions little known to the average user.
6. Others. Contains two functions also unknown to the average user.

Engineering menu settings

The engineering menu opens up enormous possibilities for customizing the phone; we will consider the most interesting ones in detail.

• SAR Test - determining the level of harmful radiation from a smartphone or tablet.
• Connections - testing available wireless connection types: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, WLAN CTIA and FM receiver.

• Audio - adjusts the sound in the speakers, microphone and headphones. About how to increase the Android volume through the engineering menu.

• Camera - configure various camera settings.

• Turning on the current camera - the operating current of the camera is displayed (in our tablet it is 2 mA).
• Load test of the CPU (central processing unit) - checking the stability of its operation, identifying errors in the operation of the processor-memory channel, testing the cooling system and power supply of the processor.
• Device Manager - activate automatic SMS registration, manage configuration parameters.
• Disable detection - adjust the signal frequency.
• Display - Sets the pulse width modulation indicator cycle, which affects the perceived brightness of the screen by quickly turning the backlight on/off; backlight adjustment; controller behind the vertical and horizontal lines of the display.

• Wake mode - its activation will not allow the device to “go” into sleep mode.
• IO - management of data input/output operations.
• Memory - detailed information about the RAM module.
• To a certain extent - detailed information about the battery (the strange name of the section is most likely due to errors in the automatic translation of names in the application, but there is no option to switch to English).
• SD card test - the name of the tab speaks for itself.
• Touch screen - checking the sensitivity and response of the display when pressed, as well as setting its additional settings.
• USB - testing the operation of the USB port.

• UART/USB switch - switching between two data transfer modes.
• Sensor - calibration (adjusting clarity and sensitivity) of the touch screen. Standard methods.
• Location - testing the GPS performance and determining the exact location.
• Battery log - detailed information about the battery and the ability to activate the recording of battery consumption information.

• MTKLogger - collection of system logs (MobileLog, ModemLog and NetworkLog).
• Temperature sensor - shows the battery and processor.
• Font parameter - change the font size.

When installing the application, some features may not be available without .

Xiaomi engineering menu

Despite the fact that our test Redmi 2 runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor, it also has the functionality that interests us. To enter it, you need to tap on the “Kernel version” item several times in a row.

The menu is represented by five items:

1. Automatic Test. Automatic test of all device parameters.
2. Single Item Test. Each of the 25 tests is taken separately. We will talk about this in detail below.
3. Test Report. Report on the completed texts and their results.
4. SW add HW version. Information about the smartphone version, IMEI and other numbers.
5. Device View. Smartphone hardware data.

Of course, the most interesting point is the Single Item Test, where you can take a huge number of tests.

Let's make a reservation right away that there was no way to configure anything in the device we tested - only a functionality check. At the end of each procedure, you need to note its status: successful (success) or not (failed).

• Key - functionality of physical buttons. Interestingly, it was not possible to complete it successfully, since when checking the power button, the smartphone turns off.
• Backlight - display brightness.

• TouchPanel. The touch screen test includes two procedures: “Crossed calibration” and “Touch panel calibration”. The first one checks so-called “swipes”, the second one checks single taps on the screen. An easy way to calibrate your display.

• TFlash. Testing a memory card with two results: either everything is fine, or the card is damaged.
• Bluetooth. Searches for available devices.
• SIM Card. Test for the presence of SIM cards.

• Vibration. The gadget vibrates - everything is ok.
• RTC (Real Time Clock) - operation of the built-in clock.
• Speaker. Testing the conversational speaker. We didn’t understand how to get through it. We will be grateful if you can tell us in the comments.
• Receiver. Translated as receiver, receiver, but music plays during testing.
• Headset. Testing the 3.5mm jack to detect headphones, play sounds, and support headset control buttons.

• LED. Notification indicator, everything is obvious here.
• FM (radio). Click Search, and if you hear noise in the headphones, then everything is working properly.
• Camera. Everything is obvious: a test of the main and front optics, as well as the flash.
• Battery. An informative section with information about the correct operation of the USB cable (charging), the condition of the battery, its charge level and temperature. Similar data can be obtained more.

• Wi-Fi. Detection of nearby access points. There are no settings.

• Torch (flashlight): shines/does not shine.
• The loopback test includes a test of the spoken microphone. First, click Recording, then Playing.
• LCD. Screen colors.
• GPS. Detection of available satellites.
• Gyro (gyroscope). Three parameters - X, Y, Z - change depending on the position of the device in space.
• G-sensor (Accelerometer). Rotate the gadget in all planes and turn it over. The three parameters should be ok.
• Proximity Sensor. It is usually located near the speaker and is designed to dim the gadget screen during a conversation, thereby eliminating accidental clicks.
• Optical and Magnetic Sensor (optical and magnetic sensors) - points we don’t understand, share your knowledge in the comments.

After passing all tests, you can go to the Test Report section. As you can see, our “animal” is in excellent shape and has passed all the tests, which is very pleasing.

Conclusions

Above we have listed the main sections of the engineering menu available on the tested devices. Now let’s summarize what features the user gets during installation:

• Formatting, restoring to factory settings.
• Testing the operation of individual elements of a smartphone or tablet, such as sensors, touch screen sensitivity and calibration accuracy.
• Detailed information about the device and its parts. For example, you can track battery consumption since the last charge and view statistics on the programs used.
• Energy optimization. Alternatively, unnecessary frequency ranges are turned off. In Russia, the standard indicators for working in 2G and 3G networks are 900 and 1800 MHz, while in the USA they are 850 and 1900 MHz.

The engineering menu provides access to manual configuration of the “hardware” part of the smartphone. To enter you need to enter a special code or install an application, but there are a number of features that are worth paying close attention to. If you were unable to enter the engineering menu the first time, then you did not take into account the features of the device. It is worth immediately clarifying that any interference with the operation of the device may lead to its inoperability and loss of warranty.

Hidden capabilities of the system

At the last stages of setting up a smartphone, developers test the system for errors and check the operation of all sensors on the device. Especially for this purpose, Android has a special subroutine built into it - the engineering menu, which provides access to hidden settings of the Android OS and allows you to reconfigure them yourself. In addition, the menu contains detailed information about the device. The full list of menu options is known only to the platform developers, so you should make your changes with caution.

Secret paths of developers

To enter the engineering menu, dial the code *#*#3646633#*#*. On some models, you additionally need to press the call key. It is worth considering the features of phones: for different brands there are different combinations of numbers. The Android version does not affect the functionality of the engineering menu.

Enter a special code to enter the engineering menu

If no problems arise, you will be taken to an additional menu for fine-tuning your smartphone.

Enter the menu subsection

Depending on the system version and processor model, the engineering menu may be incomplete or missing. In the photo above there is a subsection of the menu with elements for testing smartphone sensors, setting up a USB connection, and performing internal and external memory tests.

If it doesn't work out the first time

Not all devices can access the engineering menu. Let's look at a number of common problems and ways to fix them.

Android is a complex Unix-based operating system. If you can’t do something, you haven’t taken into account all the nuances of the functioning of a particular subroutine.

List of special codes

One of the common reasons for blocking entry to the engineering menu is an incorrect special code. The combination of numbers depends not only on the device model, but also on the type of processor. For example, most devices based on the MTK chip are equipped with an engineering menu. If we talk about Qualcomm, not all smartphones based on this platform have an engineering menu built into them. The list of combinations is given in the table. If you don't find the one you need, try entering a different combination.

Table: code options for different Android models

DIY engineering menu

If none of the special codes work, don’t worry. There are many applications on the network with engineering menu functionality. It is worth noting that the MTK prefix in the names eloquently indicates compatibility only with MediaTek processors.

The first option is Mobileuncle MTK Tools. In addition to the necessary set of settings, this program has several additional functions: firmware update, recovery update, GPS receiver improvement mode and much more.

Mobileuncle MTK Tools provides a set of settings

Another program is MTK Engineering Mode. The program completely replicates the standard engineering menu.

MTK Engineering Mode repeats the standard engineering menu

For those whose device is not equipped with an engineering menu, there is another option: installing third-party firmware. Assemblies from third-party developers often contain a wide range of customization settings.

Where to start

When you first enter the menu, you can get lost in the jungle of parameters.

Engineering menu settings

Settings open up enormous possibilities for users.

Depending on the hardware platform, some items may not be available or may be missing.

In this section you can configure mobile communication settings.

1. Auto Answer. You can enable or disable automatic answering of an incoming call.
2. Band Mode. Allows you to manually select the frequency range for the GSM module to operate. You will see all technologies and frequencies for them supported by your smartphone model. If you wish, you can uncheck bands that are not used by your carrier. This will significantly save battery power. To save the settings, press the set button.
3. CFU Setting (Call forwarding Settings). The option enables or disables conditional forwarding. It must be supported by the operator.
4. AT Command Tool. A utility for developers that supports AT commands. This menu item will be of interest to programmers and developers. Using this menu, you can perform various queries directly to the system without visual add-ons.
5. Modem Test. Configuring the compatibility of the “access point” option with various types of connected devices.
6. Network Selecting. Here you can select mobile communication standards (GSM, WCDMA, LTE). For additional energy saving, turn off unused ones.
7. NetworkInfo. Select one or more options to display information about the status of cellular communication parameters. Once selected, open the additional menu (three dots in the upper right corner) and click Check Information. This option is convenient for checking the quality of cellular operator services.
8. GPRS. Setting up a connection to the mobile Internet, selecting an active SIM card (if there are several of them).
9. HSPA Info. Information about the 3G network if supported by your mobile operator.
10. Mobile data service preferred. The Internet will be given priority over voice traffic to increase data transfer speeds. Incoming calls may not go through.
11. Fast Dormancy. Allows you to save battery energy in third generation networks. The option must be supported by your telecom operator.
12. RAT Mode (Phone Info). Allows you to select the priority communication standard. You should change the parameter carefully, it blocks the settings of the Network Selecting item.
13. RF De-sense Test. You can select a frequency range and a specific channel to check the communication quality.
14. SIM ME Lock. This subsection allows you to configure the regional parameters of the GSM module (MNC, NCC) manually.

Photo gallery: mobile communication parameters

We get to the main window of the subsection Enable or disable auto-response Enable or disable conditional forwarding Configure the “Modem” mode Display information from the GSM module Configure the mobile Internet Select the priority of the connection type Configure the operation of the 3G mode Select the type of mobile communication Check the network power Configure regional communication parameters

Wireless interfaces

This section is intended for testing wireless data transmission modules (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, FM).

1. Bluetooth. A wide range of settings and tests for the module of the same name in order to check the reception and transmission of data, and start the debugging mode.
2. CDS Information. Information about the parameters of wireless interfaces.
3. FM Receiver. Checking the FM module of the device.
4. Wi-Fi. Testing the module for transmitting and receiving information on the specified frequency channel.
5. Wi-Fi CTIA. Recording logs of wireless technology tests.

Photo gallery: wireless data transmission

Select the section for checking the device’s wireless modules Check the bluetooth operating mode Find information about the wireless interfaces Configure the FM module Check the operation of the WiFi module Write data about checking the WiFi module to a log file

1. Audio - fine-tuning audio playback parameters.
2. Camera - a set of parameters for taking photos and videos that are not included in the Camera application.
3. Driving Current Camera - takes current readings from the sensor in the camera circuit.
4. CPU Stress Test - performing tests of all subsystems of the central processor.
5. Deep Idle Setting - disable sleep mode in standby mode.
6. Sleep Mode Setting - sleep mode settings.
7. ChargeBattery - View battery information.
8. Sensor - sensor calibration.
9. Multi-Touch - checks the number of available points for simultaneously pressing the screen.
10. Location Engineer Mode - checking the parameters of the GPS module.

Photo gallery: equipment testing

Go to the section for checking electronic components Adjust the volume of the conversation speakers Adjust the camera's power supply Adjust the standby mode Adjust the frequency of the central processor Adjust the sleep mode View information about the battery Adjust the touch screen Check the capabilities of the multi-touch function Configure the GPS module

Adjusting the speaker volume

In the subsection you can adjust the overall volume level, headphone and speakerphone volume.

You should be careful when changing volume settings. All parameters are individual for a specific device model. Incorrect configuration may result in poor hearing performance.

There are a number of general parameters:

1. MaxVol - general volume level. The range of values ​​is from 0 to 160. The higher the number, the higher the volume.
2. Sph - volume during a telephone conversation.
3. Mic - microphone sensitivity.
4. Ring - speaker volume for incoming calls.
5. Media - volume level when watching movies, listening to music and playing games.

Very often, users are unhappy with the speaker volume during a conversation. To improve audibility, go to the Normal Mode menu and change the Sph parameter to 150. If the phone rings quietly when there is an incoming call, then you need to increase the value of the Ring parameter. We advise you not to set the value above 200, as this may damage the speaker. To make you better heard, change the Mic parameter from 100 to 172. This will increase the sensitivity of the speaker.

ROOT is a panacea for a smartphone

On a smartphone without root rights, the functionality of the engineering menu is limited: some items are not displayed, and changes made are not saved. Any interference with the operation of a smartphone requires open access to the system. Do not forget that obtaining root access may damage your gadget and will void the device warranty. We strongly recommend that you back up important information to a memory card and synchronize it with your Google account and remove it to avoid data loss. To unlock full access to the system, you can use one of the existing methods.

Installing the application directly on the device (KingRoot)

Superuser access can be opened from a smartphone using special programs. Let's look at the sequence of operations using the KingRoot program as an example:

After this, you can safely change the parameters in the engineering menu, all changes will be saved. If the result is negative, we move on to the next method.

Obtaining superuser rights via PC (Kingo Root)

This method differs in a slightly larger number of preparatory activities:

The engineering menu is used to configure the device and test the operation of the hardware. This is a built-in system routine that is an indispensable tool for both experienced users and newcomers to the world of mobile devices. However, it should be noted that manipulations with the engineering menu can render the gadget inoperative.

Advanced users of modern smartphones and tablets use the numerous functions that the Android engineering menu has. It allows you to obtain information about the mac address, check or configure the operation of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, update the software of the camera, speakers. Very often, using such a menu you can improve the sound on your device and make other fine adjustments. For example, return the original Google account settings, specify settings for blocking and turning off the device, and set settings that allow you to create a backup copy of important information. Before entering the engineering menu, you need to understand that rash actions can lead to a malfunction of the device. It is advisable for the user to remember what changes were made to the system in order to return all settings to their previous state if necessary.

How to enter the engineering menu using the standard capabilities of the device?

The list of functionality can be opened by typing a specific combination of characters in the device call window. The Android engineering menu code varies depending on the brand of phone or tablet. Each manufacturer sets its own combination. Such information is usually indicated in the instructions for the phone and on official websites. Users of modern devices usually have no difficulty finding the required code.

Below we provide a table of the most common combinations. It is not recommended to use them unless your device is one of the listed brands.

The developers do not recommend executing such commands without certain knowledge and experience. But often only this method helps to quickly solve a number of problems related to, returning the device to its original state, and obtaining additional information about the device. The engineering menu is presented in English, which makes it understandable for most users.

Using additional programs

It is not always possible to find out the combination that is suitable directly for your device. In such situations, you can install special software on your mobile device, which will allow you to open a list of the functionality of your smartphone or tablet with a few clicks. It is publicly available for different versions of Android and device models.

The program for entering the Android engineering menu can be installed via a USB connection to a personal computer or laptop. One of them is called Mediatek Engineer Mode. It is a file EnMode.apk, which must be transferred to the device memory and installed in the usual way. This program is suitable for devices operating on the MTK processor. The user has the opportunity to download free and paid versions of the software.

In the Google Play store you can download the Mobileuncle MTK Tools utility. It is designed for smartphones and tablets running Android 2.1. and later versions. The description says that such a utility is also only suitable for devices equipped with an MTK processor.

The Mobileuncle Tools program is suitable for owners. There are other utilities, for example, Shortcut Master, MTK engineering menu, launching MTK engineering menu. Before installing them, we recommend that you read the application rating, reviews from other users, and also check your device for compatibility.

Setting up optimal sound by opening the engineering menu

One of the most common reasons why users look for information on how to enter the engineering menu is the need to fine-tune the sound. The following situations may occur:

• Poor audibility when the speakerphone is on
• Sudden changes in the sound of an incoming call while listening to audio
• Insufficient signal volume
• Quiet sounds while recording video
• Quiet operation of the headset and microphone.

This is just a small list of installed settings that can be changed through the engineering menu of a modern mobile device. Sound settings are done through the Audio section, which is displayed immediately after entering the menu. Then various tabs will appear on the screen, such as Headset Mode. This tab allows you to set sound parameters that are activated when you connect a headset. Normal Mode sets the sound in the normal state of the mobile device (without connecting headphones or speakers).

LoudSpeaker Mode tab, which are activated when the loudspeaker is turned on. Headset LoudSpeaker Mode allows you to make settings for the active loudspeaker mode while a headset is connected to it. The Speech Enhancement tab provides settings that come into play when communicating over a mobile network.

Android engineering menu and secret codes. What does the Android OS allow you to configure through the engineering menu? Sound volume, sensors and much more, read about all this in our article.

Our smartphones carry a lot of secrets that are hidden by manufacturers. Do you know anything about the engineering menu on Android? Have you heard about secret codes? Since they opened our article, it means they heard something remotely. All these tools appeared at the birth of the first mobile phones, but, as is natural, over the years they became more functional and understandable.

However, it is worth noting right away that the manufacturers’ plans do not include making the engineering menu or secret codes for (as the name implies) available to everyone. And this makes sense. Let's go in order.

What is the Android engineering menu, secret codes?

So, Engineering Mode (engineering menu) is a special application that is installed on almost any smartphone. Used by the manufacturer to conduct various tests and optimize the operation of functions, sensors and other parameters of a phone or tablet.

By default, it is hidden in the system so that every user cannot access it. Called, as a rule, using a small code entered using a standard dialer. Thanks to its extensive capabilities, the engineering menu can be accessed and managed using third-party applications.

Why is the engineering menu hidden? If you use the application's capabilities carelessly, you can damage your smartphone or other device. As noted above, the engineering menu is intended for manufacturers (developers, for conducting tests). Therefore, you should be careful when making any changes here.

Secret codes for Android (service, engineering) are somewhat different from the menu considered. If the engineering menu provides access to many parameters at once, then one entered service code leads to only one, as a rule, function. There are a lot of codes.

Moreover, there are both universal ones (work on most Android smartphones, even mobile phones) and codes for specific device models. We'll look at the most popular ones a little later.

How to access the engineering menu on an Android device - codes

There are two popular ways: through a secret code or using special software. Naturally, the first method is simpler and more reliable, but not without nuances. There is no universal code that will definitely take you to the engineering menu.

On one smartphone one triggers, on another – another, on a third – a third. However, Android is not the first year, so users have developed the most popular codes that work on most devices. So:

• *#*#3646633#*#* – the most common entry code into the Android engineering menu;
• *#15963#* and *#*#4636#*#* – if the previous one did not work, try these;
• *#*#7378423#*#* or *#*#3646633#*#*or *#*#3649547#*#* – used on smartphones from Sony;
• *#*#3424#*#* or *#*#8255#*#* – we draw the attention of owners of HTC devices;
• *#*#197328640#*#* – in some cases it works on Samsung;
• 3845#*855# – often used to access the engineering menu on LG Android smartphones;
• *#*#54298#*#* – works on many devices with a MediaTek processor;
• *#*#2846579#*#* or *#*#14789632#*#* – and Huawei has its own set of codes.

At least one, but it should work on your device. Simply enter the code using the dialer (Phone application on the desktop). As a rule, you don’t even need to press the call button (not always) - when you finish dialing, the service will automatically start. But not everything is so simple; there are certain difficulties in launching the engineering menu on some Android phones.

I can’t enter the Android engineering menu: reasons

• Firstly, many smartphones or tablets with Qualcomm Snapdragon, Intel or Tegra processors either do not have a menu or are very difficult to access. In some cases, you don't even have to try.
• secondly, custom firmware may be the cause of the problems. In a number of them, access to configuration tools is simply absent or blocked. For example, you will not find an engineering menu in the CyanogenMod firmware, which is very popular among users. The reason is simple - the firmware was originally developed for Snapdragon-based devices.
• thirdly, the source of the problems may be the manufacturer himself, who hid the engineering menu more reliably or decided to remove it altogether. This also includes various types of errors from which none of the devices are insured.

Actually, solutions to problems lie on the surface. If the smartphone is powered by Snapdragon, Intel or Tegra, then in most cases nothing can be done. However, even on these devices you can access a number of hidden settings, which we will discuss below.

By the way, on Xiaomi smartphones, which are mostly based on chips from Qualcomm, you can access the engineering version by clicking several times on “Kernel version” in the smartphone settings (section “About phone”). Finally, in some cases, flashing your Android device to stock (official) firmware will help.

The second way to open access to the engineering menu is through applications. There are quite a few of them, you can download them for free from, but almost all of them are designed for smartphones based on the MediaTek processor.

Again, it is not a fact that each of the programs will work smoothly on your device - there are a hundred reasons why they will refuse to function. These tools are developed by small companies, so you'll probably have to try a few.

What can be configured in the engineering menu?

Both the appearance of the interface and the set of settings for settings may differ for different smartphones. If you take a Qualcomm Snapdragon device, then often all you can do is look at information about the various modules and perform some tests.

You will not be able to make any changes to the parameters. But MediaTek smartphones offer much more options: sound configuration, network settings, various modules, and so on.

So, regardless of the fact that the external interface of the engineering menu may differ on different devices, it will not be difficult to understand the items. Let's go through the main features.

Once again, you make changes at your own risk. Don't change the values ​​of parameters you don't know anything about.

Informative features of the Android engineering menu

The first thing the Android engineering menu offers is to study various information about the device. It mainly concerns the network, wireless interfaces and battery (on smartphones with Snapdragon processors using the command *#*#4636#*#*). What can you see in these sections:

• Phone IMEI is a special (unique) number that is assigned to each smartphone;
• Phone number – not always indicated;
• Network – the current operator is indicated;
• Roaming – whether you are there or not;
• Information about the network - whether it is being serviced or not, enabled or disabled;
• Call forwarding – whether used or not;
• Network type, network index;
• Signal volume and your location in the form of coordinates.

In the "About the battery" section:

• Status: charging or not;
• Charge level (in percent);
• Voltage and temperature;
• The technology used to produce the element;
• Time since last reboot.

One of the sections allows you to view information about the use of applications on your smartphone (name, date of last launch, duration). In addition, a separate section of the engineering menu on Android is dedicated to the wireless interface. Here you will find information about the connection status, the name of the network, you can find out the speed and some other data.

Testing smartphone parameters in the engineering menu

Quite an interesting feature of the engineering menu, which allows you to test various parameters of the smartphone. It often helps to find the source of the problem that is causing the system to not function properly. What specific tests can be performed:

• Comprehensive (Automatic Test) – every parameter of the smartphone is tested;
• Report – provides a test report;
• Testing buttons, memory cards and SIM cards, vibration, speakers, connectors - all this can be checked for functionality;
• Screen tests - for brightness, sensitivity, etc.;
• Testing cameras and flash, flashlight, wireless interfaces and sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer and others).

Again, the range of testing options may vary. It all depends on the engineering menu of a particular Android device. Undoubtedly, useful functions that will be useful to many users. For example, when purchasing a used smartphone, you can test the screen for functionality.

Changing settings in the Android hidden menu

If there is nothing to be afraid of when testing or studying information about a phone or tablet, then you need to make changes carefully.

It’s better not to touch parameters at all, the purpose of which you don’t know, and also take screenshots or mark on a piece of paper everything that you change. If problems arise, you can return the options to their default values. Let's look at the most interesting sections here.

Setting up cellular communications (Telephony) and changing IMEI

Settings for changing network parameters are concentrated here. You are unlikely to be able to disable your smartphone by changing these parameters, but the network search can be disrupted, so remember where you take pictures and where you put the checkmarks, so that in the future, if anything happens, you can return everything to its place.

As a rule, changes in this section are made in order to reduce energy consumption.

Firstly, you can deselect frequencies (subsection Band Mode) on which your operator does not work. Let's find out which bands your mobile operator operates in and uncheck all the others. This will help reduce energy consumption a little, since it will know exactly which frequencies to connect to.

In the same subsection, on the contrary, you can turn on the desired frequencies. This is needed when the manufacturer from the factory does not activate the necessary ones for your region. For example, Chinese smartphones often cannot work out of the box in Russia with LTE. The service menu on Android will help solve this problem.

Secondly, in subsection Network Selecting we can set the priority of the networks that are used for access (2G, 3G, 4G). Everything is done for the same purpose: increasing battery life. As a rule, 3G and/or 4G networks are turned off. Not every region has support for these networks, and the communication module, be that as it may, continues to search for them, consuming energy. Turned it off and no problem. In addition, the device will not switch to 3G or 4G, wasting traffic.

To subsection GPRS, it’s better for us, ordinary users, not to get into it unless there is a good reason for it. Here you can find various settings for how your smartphone works with the network, and there is also an option for changing IMEI.

Attention! There were precedents for criminal prosecution for illegally changing IMEI numbers. More often the punishment is a fine or a suspended sentence. However, there were cases of actual imprisonment.

The IMEI change function can be useful after an unsuccessful attempt to flash the firmware, when the identification number “flies”. Then you can simply copy it from the box the device came in.

Connectivity

Here, as in the case of GPRS, most people have nothing to do. The section itself is intended for making changes to the settings of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules. In this section you won’t be able to configure anything to make your smartphone work better, but you can easily harm your electronic friend.

Therefore, here we use only testing functions, and if it is necessary to make some corrections to return the device to a working state, we carefully study the purpose of each parameter on the Network.

Setting the sound volume in the Android engineering menu (Audio)

Judging by the number of queries in the search, it is in order to increase the volume that Android users resort to the engineering menu. It's quite simple:

1. Select the Hardware Testing -> Audio tab. Select the desired mode;

• Normal Mode – is responsible for outputting sound to the main speaker.
• Headset Mode – it is used to adjust the sound volume in the headphones.
• LoudSpeaker – includes settings for adjusting sound parameters during speakerphone calls.
• Headset_LoudSpeaker Mode – allows you to increase or decrease the sound volume for speakerphone mode with connected headphones.

1. Now from the drop-down list we select for which device we will adjust the volume in the Android engineering menu;

Sip – options for Internet telephony. Mic – sets the microphone sensitivity. Sph (maybe two) – setting the earpiece speaker. Media – multimedia speaker (main). Finally, an item that is best left untouched is Sid. After changes, an echo may appear.

1. The “Level” line specifies the volume level value, which is associated with each step (click) of the volume rocker. The default is 0. You can leave it alone, unless, of course, the sound on your device jumps sharply when you press a button.
2. The “Value is” line specifies the value of each step (volume level);
3. The most interesting line is “Max Vol”, with which the maximum volume on Android is increased through the engineering menu.

As a rule, the smartphone manufacturer does not set the maximum value, so we can correct it ourselves. Please note that at the highest level the speaker wheezes. To choose the most comfortable value, we go through the options.

Secret codes for Android

In addition to the engineering menu, you can use secret codes to access various functions. Here it is also difficult to predict which of the commands will work on your device. Let's look at the most popular and useful: