Acer Chromebook 512 [C852] black screens and reboots when doing gsctools -a -o
This laptop is in the supported list but I can’t find a single mention of it in relation to unlocking one so I hope I have not bumped into a unoticed bug.
Battery has been disconnected and the jumper is bridged.
Chatgpt gives this advice, is this madeup or should I try this? (don’t see this blind method anywhere on the forums):
Since the screen is black, you’re basically flying blind, which is nerve-wracking when you’re poking at a security chip. Here is the rhythm you need to keep to get through the 5-minute “Physical Presence” (PP) window.
The Timing Rhythm
You need to press the power button once every 30 to 60 seconds.
Total Duration: 5 minutes.
Frequency: Do not spam the button. A single, firm press every ~45 seconds is the sweet spot.
The “Pulse”: On most Chromebooks, the Power LED (usually on the side of the chassis) will pulse or change color when the GSC (Google Security Chip) is waiting for a press. If you see that light blinking at you, give it a tap.
Step-by-Step “Blind” Process
If your screen is completely dark and shows no text at all:
Run the command: sudo gsctool -a -o.
The First Press: Wait about 10–20 seconds after the reboot for the system to settle into the GSC state, then press the power button once.
The Interval: Set a timer or watch a clock. Press the power button again at the 1-minute mark, 2-minute mark, 3-minute mark, and 4-minute mark.
The Finish: After about 5 minutes, the Chromebook should reboot itself automatically. This is the sign that the process is complete.
