Understanding the partition layout is essential before flashing. Here is what each important partition does on MSM8916 devices.
Critical Partitions (DO NOT ERASE)
modemst1 / modemst2
Contains your IMEI and modem calibration data. If you erase these, your modem will not work and your IMEI will be lost. Always back these up!
fsc / fsg
Modem firmware security data. Required for modem operation.
Flashable Partitions
aboot — Application bootloader. This is where you flash lk2nd. It is the first code that runs after the SoC firmware.
boot — Contains the Linux kernel and initramfs (initial RAM filesystem). Device-specific — make sure to use the right image for your board.
rootfs / system — The main Linux root filesystem. This is where Debian and all your software lives. Largest partition on the eMMC.
recoveryfs — Recovery filesystem (if present). Can be used as fallback.
Other Partitions
sbl1 — Secondary bootloader stage 1. Part of Qualcomm boot chain.
rpm — Resource and Power Manager firmware.
tz — TrustZone firmware (ARM secure world).
modem — Modem firmware (DSP). Required for LTE operation.
persist — Persistent storage for WiFi/BT calibration.
Safe Modification Summary
- Safe to flash: aboot, boot, rootfs/system
- Never erase: modemst1, modemst2, fsc, fsg
- Caution: sbl1, tz, rpm (only if you know what you are doing)
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