Last Updated: June 17, 2026
Do not worry if your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A is not quite right; you can bring it back with the official firmware. Here, I have put together all the files, tools, and guides you need to handle things like hard resets, FRP bypasses, IMEI repairs, and flashing.
Device: Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A | Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 MSM8974-AC | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), upgradable to 6.0 (Marshmallow), TouchWiz UI | File Type: .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin)
⚠ Warning: Flashing erases all data. Back up first.
Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
Flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware using Odin is a manageable process, provided you follow the right steps and use the correct files. This guide collects the necessary Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware file, the appropriate Odin version, and a reliable set of instructions to get your device working again.
Before you begin, one critical step is to sign out of any Samsung account connected to your device. Skipping this can trigger a KG lock from Knox, which adds extra steps to deal with after the flash. Also, remember that Samsung firmware comes packaged as a .tar.md5 file. After you extract the main ZIP file, you should see individual files such as AP_*.tar.md5, BL_*.tar.md5, CP_*.tar.md5, and CSC_*.tar.md5 (or HOME_CSC_*.tar.md5). If these specific files are not present, you might have the wrong firmware package.
The Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware will be a compressed ZIP archive. Make sure to download and then extract it using a reliable tool like WinRAR or 7-Zip. Once extracted, you should find files clearly labeled, like AP_*.tar.md5, BL_*.tar.md5, CP_*.tar.md5, and CSC_*.tar.md5 (or HOME_CSC_*.tar.md5). If your extracted folder does not contain these, it is a good indicator that the firmware package is not the correct one for your device.
Keep in mind that installing stock firmware will erase all data on your device. This data wipe is by design, as it helps to fix a range of software issues, including FRP locks, application problems, slow performance, forgotten screen pattern locks, a device stuck on the logo, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity issues, excessive battery drain, and situations where the device is soft-bricked.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A
To factory reset a Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A without using a computer, power off the device completely. Then, hold down **Volume Up + Power** simultaneously (for older models with a physical Home button, include **Home** so it is **Volume Up + Home + Power**) until the recovery menu appears. Navigate through the menu using the volume keys to select “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and confirm your choice with the Power button.
Performing a hard reset will erase all user data and return your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A to its original factory state. This action resolves most software-related problems, such as slow performance, unexpected app crashes, forgotten screen locks, and bootloop situations. If the problem persists even after a factory reset, then a full firmware flash using Odin, as detailed in the subsequent sections, is the next step.
Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A FRP Bypass
The quickest method to bypass FRP on a Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A involves utilizing a free Android apps launcher that allows you to access settings directly within the setup wizard. After either flashing new firmware or performing a factory reset, you might encounter a Google account lock, also known as FRP. Our free Android apps launcher provides the fastest way to get past this. This is also why I always recommend removing your Google account before you flash anything; it completely prevents this issue from occurring.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A Firmware?
You need the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware to resolve various software problems and restore your device’s original functionality. Samsung devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A, are flashed using the Odin tool, regardless of the internal chipset. Flashing the official firmware can resolve many issues, whether you are facing a boot problem or a general software glitch:
- Unlock devices that have become locked or disabled.
- Update the operating system to the newest Android version supported by your specific phone model.
- Address common issues such as startup loops, system lag, or freezing on your SM-G900A Galaxy S5.
- Correct problems with failed Over-The-Air (OTA) updates and excessive battery drain.
- Revert your device to its authentic Samsung stock ROM, which helps maintain warranty eligibility.
- Restore functionality when your device is only able to boot into recovery mode.
- Address KG lock or other Knox-related problems that might occur after an improper or interrupted flashing procedure on your device.
Learn more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Choosing the correct firmware version for your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A is crucial to avoid issues during the flashing process. Installing the wrong firmware is a common error that can be very difficult to recover from, so take a moment to confirm you have the right file before you start:
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Start by identifying your exact model number: Access Settings › About Phone and carefully note the complete model number, such as SM-G900A. The suffix letter is important, U/U1 generally means USA, W is for Canada, N for Korea, and B/F for International/Global versions. Using firmware meant for a different variant can lead to serious problems.
- Match the CSC (Region): Ensure the CSC (Country Specific Code) matches: The three-letter region code found within the firmware filename needs to correspond with your device’s current region. You can find your current CSC by checking Settings › About Phone › Software Information, or by looking at the ‘Service Provider’ line when your phone is in Download Mode. Examples include XAA for the US, BTU for the UK, INS for India, and SER for Russia.
- Check the Binary Level: Verify the binary level: Examine the version string of your current firmware (for example,
XXU9BZDP, the numerical digit after the letters represents the binary level). It is not possible to downgrade to a lower binary level. If your device is currently on Binary 9, you must only flash firmware that is Binary 9 or newer. - Confirm the Build Date: Confirm the build date: The final four characters of the PDA version string indicate the build date. The first character signifies the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), and the second character denotes the month (A for January, through L for December).
- Verify in Download Mode: Double-check in Download Mode: Switch off your phone, then press and hold **Volume Down + Power** simultaneously to enter Download Mode. This screen will display your precise model number, CSC, and the firmware version currently installed. Use this information for final confirmation prior to flashing.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A
Here is a quick overview of the official firmware specifications:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A |
| Firmware Version | UCU1ANCE |
| File Size | 1.5 GB |
| Android Version | Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), upgradable to 6.0 (Marshmallow), TouchWiz UI |
| Platform | Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 MSM8974-AC |
| Release Date | Released 2014, April |
| Region | Global, Africa and Asia |
| File Type | .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin) |
Which Firmware Version Should I Download?
To decide which Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware version to download, refer to the table below, which matches common situations with recommended actions. Find your specific scenario in the table, and it will direct you to the correct file:
| Your Situation | What I Recommend |
|---|---|
| Phone is completely dead or stuck on logo | UCU1ANCE, download this one. It is the latest Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware available. |
| FRP / Google account lock only | See the FRP bypass guide above, you likely do not need the full firmware for this. |
| Not sure which region/CSC to download | Check Settings › About Phone › Software Information for your current CSC, or enter Download Mode (Volume Down + Power), it shows the CSC on screen. Match the 3-letter code (e.g. XAA, BTU, INS) to the firmware filename. |
| Phone slow after a recent OTA update | Try the next older version, sometimes the latest OTA introduces new bugs and an older build runs better. Make sure the binary level is the same or higher than what your device currently has. |
| IMEI missing after a previous flash | Re-flash UCU1ANCE first, then follow the IMEI repair guide. Do not skip the reflash. |
| UCU1ANCE failed with a flash error | Try the next older version instead and double-check your AP/BL/CP/CSC file assignments in Odin before assuming the firmware is the problem. |
| Restoring to factory / warranty repair | UCU1ANCE, clean state, fresh start. |
To determine which Samsung firmware version is newer, examine the last 4 characters of the PDA version string (for example, S938BXXU9CZDP). The initial character signifies the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), the second represents the month (A for January, B for February, up to L for December, with Z typically denoting a final stable build), and the final two characters indicate the revision (numbered 0-9, then A-Z, where Z is the highest). However, before comparing dates, it is essential to always check the binary level, which is the digit found just before the date code (e.g., XXU9CZDP means Binary 9). You absolutely cannot downgrade to a lower binary level than what your device currently has. So, if your phone is on Binary 9, you must only flash Binary 9 firmware or a newer version. Also, confirm that the three-letter CSC code in the firmware filename matches your device’s region.
Download Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A Firmware
You can download the official stock firmware for your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A from the links provided below. The most recent version available is UCU1ANCE. After completing your download, please confirm that the file size matches what is specified in the table above. A discrepancy in size often indicates a partial or corrupted download, and attempting to flash a damaged file can introduce more problems than it solves.
| Software Details | Download Link | Members Link |
|---|---|---|
|
File Name: G900AUCU1ANCE_G900AATT1ANCE_ATT.zip Size: 1.5 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
Only download firmware that is fully compatible with your exact device model. See the firmware selection guide above if you are not sure.
- Your model number is a variant of SM-G900A with a different letter suffix. Check About Phone carefully, one letter difference can cause a failed or broken flash.
- Your chipset differs from Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 MSM8974-AC. Confirm in recovery mode before proceeding.
- You downloaded the file from a source other than this page.
- The file size differs significantly from the sizes listed in the table above, a size mismatch usually means a partial download, which will fail mid-flash.
Prerequisites for Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A Firmware
Before you begin flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware, it is important to prepare your device and computer by following these prerequisites. I have seen two common issues cause problems with Samsung devices: an active Samsung account that was not signed out, which can trigger a KG lock, and using a USB cable meant only for charging instead of one for data transfer, leading to connection drops during the flash. Always use a proper data cable, not a charge-only cable.
- Backup IMEI Numbers: Dial *#06# on your device and write down both IMEI numbers. You will need this information if you ever have to restore your IMEI after the flashing process.
- Remove Google Accounts: Make sure to sign out of all Google accounts linked to your device. This step is important to prevent an FRP lock from activating after the firmware flash.
- Remove Samsung Accounts: It is essential to sign out of any active Samsung accounts. Doing so helps you avoid triggering a KG lock, which can complicate things.
- Backup Your Data: Create a full backup of all your personal data, including photos, contacts, and chat histories. Flashing will completely erase your device.
- Charge Your Device: Ensure your phone has at least a 50% battery charge. A device that loses power during the flashing process can be very challenging to fix.
- USB Cable & PC: Always use a reliable data-transfer USB cable, not just a charging cable. You will also need a Windows computer with functioning USB ports.
- Install Necessary Drivers:
How to Install Firmware on Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A
To install firmware on your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A, you will use the Odin flash tool by following these steps carefully. A quick tip I always share: keep both “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” checked in Odin; these two options together consistently deliver the cleanest flashing result. If you are unsure which Odin version to use, you can refer to our Odin versions page, as some older Samsung devices tend to work better with older Odin builds.
- Download and Extract Files:
- Get the right firmware package using the download links provided earlier on this page.
- Unzip the downloaded file into a simple folder path on your computer. It is best to avoid directory names that contain spaces or special characters, as some flashing tools can have issues with these.
- Install Drivers:
- Double-check that all drivers mentioned earlier are installed and that your computer has been restarted after installation. Forgetting to restart is a frequent cause of driver-related problems.
- Load Firmware Files into Odin:
- Inside the Odin program, click the “BL” button and choose the
BL_*.tar.md5file. Then, click “AP” and select theAP_*.tar.md5file. Do the same for “CP” and “CSC”. Remember to useHOME_CSCif you want to keep your data, orCSCfor a complete clean flash.
- Inside the Odin program, click the “BL” button and choose the
- Connect Your Device to PC:
- To enter Download Mode: First, turn off your phone completely. Then, press and hold the **Volume Down** button and the **Power** button simultaneously (for older models, also include the Home button) until you see the warning screen. Press **Volume Up** to confirm and proceed into Download Mode.
- Connect your phone to your computer using the USB cable. Odin should then display “Added..” in its log area, confirming that your device has been recognized.
- Begin Flashing:
- Click the “Start” button to initiate the flashing process.
- Do not disconnect the cable, move your device, or interact with it in any way until the entire process is finished. Interrupting the flash midway is a common cause of device bricking.
- Wait for Completion and Reboot:
- After the flashing successfully concludes, you can disconnect your device.
- Power on your device. The initial boot-up will take longer than usual, sometimes up to 8 minutes, so be patient.
Video Guide for Flashing
What to Expect After Flashing Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A Firmware
After successfully flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware, several things are normal to expect, even if they seem unusual at first. I receive many comments from people who think something went wrong when it actually completed fine. Here is what is completely normal following a successful Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware flash:
- To confirm a successful flash: Odin will display “PASS.” in green text within its log window, typically at the top-left. Seeing this means the process completed without issues.
- The first boot will take 3 to 8 minutes: It is important not to force-reboot your device during this time. The operating system is configuring itself from the beginning, and interrupting this can lead to bootloops.
- Your phone might feel warm during the initial boot: This is completely normal and should subside after a few minutes once the basic app setup is finished.
- All your applications will be gone: This is an expected outcome. You will need to reinstall them from the Play Store. If you had a Google account backup enabled, it will usually offer to restore your apps automatically during the initial setup.
- Check your IMEI immediately after setup: Dial *#06# to verify your IMEI number. Do this before inserting a SIM card. If the IMEI shows as “unknown” or “null”, consult the IMEI repair guide below before proceeding further.
- Exercise caution when re-adding your Google account: If you did not remove it prior to flashing, you might encounter an FRP prompt. Add your Google account during the initial setup wizard, rather than attempting to do so later via the Settings menu.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data should be functional after setup: If mobile data is not connecting, navigate to Settings › SIM and Network and manually re-enter your APN (Access Point Name) settings. Flashing can sometimes clear these carrier configurations.
- Experiencing a bootloop after the first boot? Access recovery mode and perform a factory reset from there; refer to the hard reset guide above if needed. This situation can occur sometimes and does not necessarily indicate incorrect firmware. It usually points to a conflict with residual data from the previous installation.
- Samsung Smart Switch: After you have flashed the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware, Samsung Smart Switch might suggest installing further updates. Allow these to complete, as they help ensure your device has the most recent security patches for your specific region.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A After Flashing?
A missing IMEI on a Samsung device after flashing usually points to a corrupted EFS partition, this is the partition that stores your IMEI and carrier settings. Please note that restoring an IMEI number that is not original to your device is illegal in most countries. Therefore, only proceed with this if you are restoring the exact number your device had before you performed the flash. Tools like ChimeraTool or BFT are commonly used for this purpose. Always check your local laws before attempting any IMEI repair.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A
- Odin Displays ‘FAIL’ Instead of ‘PASS’:
- Typically, this error indicates an incompatibility between the firmware’s region or model and your specific device. Before selecting the firmware, confirm your exact model number by checking Settings › About Phone. Even a slight difference in a single letter of the model code can prevent a successful flash.
- Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A Is Not Recognized by Odin:
- Try reinstalling the Samsung USB drivers and ensure your device is properly in Download Mode. Sometimes, Odin can be particular about USB cable quality, so experimenting with a different cable might help.
- KG Lock or Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This issue arises if a Samsung account was still active on the device before flashing, or if non-official firmware was used. It is vital to sign out of all Samsung accounts before performing a flash. If a KG lock is already active, typically a specialized unlocking tool will be required.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Enter recovery mode by holding **Volume Up + Power**, then perform a factory reset from there. This action removes any residual data from the prior firmware installation that could be causing the conflict and the boot loop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware erase my data?
A: Yes, flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware using Odin will reset your device to its original factory settings, including its Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) operating system, which is upgradable to 6.0 (Marshmallow), and the TouchWiz UI. This process removes all applications, photos, contacts, and linked accounts. Please make sure to back up all important data before starting, as information cannot be recovered after the flash.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: This firmware is specifically designed for the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A model, which uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 MSM8974-AC chipset. It is not compatible with other Samsung models. Even different variants of the Galaxy S5, identified by a different letter suffix (for instance, a different version of SM-G900A), might contain a completely different chipset. Installing incorrect firmware can render your phone inoperable. Always confirm your device’s exact model number in Settings › About Phone before proceeding.
Q3: Can I downgrade from UCU1ANCE to an older firmware version?
A: While it is sometimes technically feasible on certain Qualcomm builds, I generally advise against downgrading from UCU1ANCE to an older firmware version. Such a rollback can introduce security vulnerabilities and create application compatibility issues, especially on devices running Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), upgradable to 6.0 (Marshmallow), with the TouchWiz UI. If you are experiencing problems with UCU1ANCE, please leave a comment below; often, a more effective solution exists than reverting to an older build.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: If you encounter an FRP lock on your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A, I recommend using our free Android apps launcher. The FRP lock is activated when a Google account remains signed in on the device prior to flashing. This is why I always suggest logging out of your Google account beforehand; it prevents this particular problem completely.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A?
A: This guide focuses exclusively on official Samsung stock firmware. Whether custom ROM options are available for the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A largely depends on the extent of open-source kernel support for its Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 MSM8974-AC chipset. For information on device-specific custom ROMs, you should check our Custom ROMs page or visit the XDA Developers forum.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: If Odin does not detect your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A, begin by reinstalling the Samsung USB drivers and then restarting your computer. If you are using a USB 3.0 port, try switching to a USB 2.0 port instead, as Samsung devices sometimes connect more reliably this way. Temporarily disabling your antivirus software can also sometimes resolve detection issues. If these steps do not work, please leave a comment with the precise error message, and I will assist you further.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A?
A: To access recovery mode on your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A, power off the device entirely. Then, simultaneously press and hold the **Volume Up** button and the **Power** button until the recovery menu appears. For older Samsung models equipped with a physical Home button, the combination is **Volume Up + Home + Power**. The recovery menu will show the build number for your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A, which is useful for confirming your firmware version before you flash.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: No, an ‘unknown’ IMEI after flashing your Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A, while concerning, is typically not permanent damage and can be fixed. You should refer to the IMEI repair guide located in the troubleshooting section above. For Samsung devices specifically, it is often a sign of EFS partition corruption. The most crucial step is to avoid inserting a SIM card into your device until the IMEI has been successfully restored.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware?
A: The actual flashing procedure for Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware typically lasts between 3 to 10 minutes, varying based on the firmware size and your USB connection speed. The subsequent first boot after flashing will take additional time, usually from 3 to 8 minutes. It is vital not to interrupt your device during either of these stages. If the progress bar in Odin seems to be frozen, allow a few more minutes before concluding that an error has occurred.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A Firmware
This concludes everything you need to know for safely flashing the official Samsung Galaxy S5 SM-G900A firmware (UCU1ANCE) using Odin and getting your device fully operational again. If you have carefully followed each step, your phone should now be running on a fresh, clean software build.
Should anything not proceed as expected, perhaps a specific error message appeared, or a step is not working with your current setup, please leave a comment below. Provide as much detail as you can: the exact error, which step you were on, and what troubleshooting you have already attempted. I read every comment and will do my best to help you work through any issues.
If this guide has been helpful to you, please consider sharing it. It is one of the best ways to assist others who might be facing similar problems.
Browse all Samsung firmware downloads for more devices.
Disclaimer: Flashing stock firmware is performed at your own risk. Follow the instructions on this page carefully. I cannot be held responsible for any damage to your device, but I will always try to help if something goes wrong.
