Beginner having firmware issues

[timpunny]

• OS: Windows
• Model: crkbd 4.1 standard (I am 90% certain)
• Layout: split 3×6 3 ex2

I just received a prebuilt obtained via eBay from user kana1688 (99% positive rating). The product worked fine at first. It's the customization that's giving me a roadblock. It's otherwise in pristine condition and was professionally packaged.

This is my first time dealing with firmware for a device, so I'm chalking the struggles up to user error for the time being. I won't hesitate to return it if it becomes apparently defective.

I started off trying to use the QMK toolbox (including installing drivers) but was informed that this model can just be flashed from a .uf2 file without the toolbox.

Here are the anomalies I've identified:

Action	Result
I plugged in the keyboard for the first time	It worked as a normal keyboard
I drag and drop custom configurator-generated firmware onto the keyboard (in bootloader mode)	Windows warns: "The file has properties that cannot be copied to the new location."
I continue and upload the firmware to one side of the keyboard	That side lights up (rainbow) and does not respond to key presses
I repeat for the second side of the keyboard	Both sides light up and neither responds to any key presses
I put it back in bootloader mode	The file is not there
I do the same 3 times with a different model selected (mini, 4.0, 4.0 mini)	They still just light up and don't respond

Here are my questions from most to least pertinent:

• Is there a way for me to tell for certain what model it is without disassembling it?
• Is the "file has properties that cannot be copied" message something to be concerned about?
  • Is that why the file doesn't show up?
• Should I need to use Vial? Or should the online configurator work fine?
• Do I dare plug in the flash drive that came with the keyboard that supposedly has a distribution of Vial on it? Surely the one on the website will work if the need arises?

Thank you so much! I've wanted a Corne keyboard for years.

[foostan]

Is there a way for me to tell for certain what model it is without disassembling it?

You need to confirm the number on the PCB. It's easy.

Is the "file has properties that cannot be copied" message something to be concerned about?

I'm not sure about your situation. Do you have the correct firmware? If you want to use it with your customized firmware, I will confirm your code if you share it with me.

Should I need to use Vial? Or should the online configurator work fine?
Do I dare plug in the flash drive that came with the keyboard that supposedly has a distribution of Vial on it? Surely the one on the website will work if the need arises?

What do you mean? Please explain what you are referring to specifically and provide a link.
By the way, if you use Vial, you need to use firmware that is specifically made for Vial. It is not common with VIA.