The Data Packet | With Type-0x96- Returned Was Misformatted ((exclusive))

This error message is most commonly associated with Spreadtrum (SPD) flash tools (like ResearchDownload, UpgradeDownload, or SPD Factory Tool) used for flashing firmware onto mobile devices with UniSOC or Spreadtrum processors.

Troubleshooting Steps

If you encounter the error "the data packet with type-0x96-returned was misformatted," here are some steps you might consider: the data packet with type-0x96- returned was misformatted

Flashing Stock Only: Ensure you are using the original, unedited .pac file for your exact model. This error message is most commonly associated with

Environment / Context

• Protocol / stack used (e.g., custom UDP, LoRaWAN, Zigbee, MQTT SN, etc.)
• Device or software version
• Packet direction (RX/TX)

Step 1: Verify the Header and Length

Look at the bytes immediately preceding or following 0x96. Protocol / stack used (e

Assume Ethernet type 0x96

ETH_P_CUSTOM = 0x96 sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_PACKET, socket.SOCK_RAW, socket.htons(ETH_P_CUSTOM)) sock.bind(('eth0', 0))

• Example: The definition for Type 0x96 requires a 12-byte payload (e.g., 3 integers). The packet received contained 10 bytes or 13 bytes.
• Result: The parser hit the "End of Packet" marker too early or read into the footer, triggering the misformatted flag.

Encrypted Handshakes: Some specialized security hardware uses this packet type during the initial decryption phase.