Locate the official MakeMKV customized firmware pack (usually found pinned in the MakeMKV forum under "UHD Drives"). Inside this pack, look for the clean, unencrypted file named:
Here is the standard process broken down into actionable steps:
No. BU40N 1.00 firmware breaks official playback software. PowerDVD and CyberLink’s software check for the latest firmware and valid AACS certificates. If you flash to 1.00, you must use LibreDrive-enabled software (MakeMKV, VLC with libaacs, or Kodi) to play the disc directly. Most users rip the disc to MKV and then play the file via Plex or MPC-HC. bu40n 1.00 firmware
Flashing firmware carries risks. Follow these instructions precisely to avoid ruining your hardware. Prerequisites A Windows-based PC.
However, out of the box, newer factory versions of this drive come with restricted firmware that prevents you from reading 4K UHD Blu-ray discs on your PC. The secret to unlocking its full potential lies in a specific software version: . PowerDVD and CyberLink’s software check for the latest
Choosing the right firmware depends entirely on your needs. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:
Using specific command-line versions of the flasher ( sdftool ), you can force a downgrade even from 1.05. However, this requires entering a "safe mode" via a hardware short (jumping two pins on the flash ROM). This is for anyone without soldering experience. Flashing firmware carries risks
Firmware 1.00 is the factory-shipped version. Crucially, it predates the "hardened" security patches that LG and Hitachi (HLDS) implemented to comply with the Blu-ray Disc Association's anti-ripping mandates.
Originally, UHD Blu-rays required specific "official" hardware and software chains (like Intel SGX) to play or rip. Firmware version 1.00 for the BU40N is a "friendly" firmware that allows the drive to read the data on UHD discs without these restrictive checks. Universal Compatibility