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When using the Fusee bootloader to launch custom firmware on a Nintendo Switch, users may occasionally encounter the error message: “A fatal error occurred when running Fusee.” This issue can be frustrating, preventing the device from booting into the desired firmware. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps that can help resolve this error and get the system working again.
Common Causes of the Error
Several factors can contribute to this fatal error. Understanding the root cause is essential for applying the correct fix. The most common causes include:
- Corrupt or outdated firmware files.
- Incorrect file placement on the SD card.
- An improperly formatted SD card.
- Hardware-related issues such as a faulty SD card or USB cable.
Steps to Fix ‘A Fatal Error Occurred When Running Fusee’
1. Ensure the SD Card is Properly Formatted
The SD card must be formatted correctly to avoid errors. The recommended file system is FAT32, as other formats like exFAT can cause compatibility issues.
- Insert the SD card into a computer.
- Backup all important files as formatting will erase data.
- Use a formatting tool such as GUIFormat (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac) to format the card to FAT32.
- Reinsert the SD card into the Switch and try booting again.
2. Check Firmware Files
Corrupt or incorrect firmware files are a common cause of this error. Replacing them with fresh copies can resolve the issue.
- Download the latest version of the custom firmware files from a reliable source.
- Extract the files and copy them to the appropriate locations on the SD card.
- Ensure that files such as fusee.bin are placed correctly.
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3. Verify Payload Delivery
If the payload is not being delivered properly, the console may not boot correctly. This can be checked by using a different injection method.
- Ensure that the USB cable used to connect the Switch to the PC is not faulty.
- Try injecting the payload using an alternative tool such as TegraRcmGUI or Fusee Launcher.
- Confirm that the correct payload.bin is being used.
4. Reinstall Atmosphère
Atmosphère, the custom firmware used alongside Fusee, may need to be reinstalled if files are missing or corrupted.
- Delete the atmosphere folder from the SD card.
- Download the latest Atmosphère release.
- Extract the contents and copy them onto the SD card.
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5. Check for Hardware Issues
If none of the software-related fixes work, there might be a hardware problem causing the error.
- Try using a different SD card to see if the issue is resolved.
- Replace the USB cable or use a different PC to inject the payload.
- Inspect the Switch’s RCM jig for any signs of damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Fusee fatal error mean?
This error indicates that the Fusee bootloader encountered an issue while trying to load custom firmware. It can be due to incorrect firmware files, an SD card issue, or problems with the payload injection.
How can I prevent this error in the future?
To minimize the risk of encountering this error, always ensure that firmware files are up to date, properly formatted, and placed in the correct directories. Regularly back up your SD card and avoid using outdated or incompatible software.
Can a faulty USB cable cause this error?
Yes, a faulty or low-quality USB cable can prevent the correct transmission of the payload, leading to this error. Using a different high-quality USB-C cable is recommended.
Why is my console still not booting after trying all these steps?
If the error persists, there may be a deeper software or hardware issue. Consider testing different payload tools, using another SD card, or checking Switch forums for similar cases.
By following these troubleshooting steps, most users should be able to resolve the “A fatal error occurred when running Fusee” issue and successfully boot into their desired custom firmware.
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