nRFConnect Programmer Error: Timeout occured while handling debug power

[T.Sanni]

Hello, 

I am working on the Raytac MDBT50Q-RX dongle which has the nrf52840 chip embedded. I am having issues programming it using the debug pins on the module, using the nrfConnect programmer desktop application. I get the following error:

'Error: Failed with exit code 1. One or more batch tasks failed: - [Probe] Device error: A timeout occurred while handling debug power: Timed out trying to power sys and debug region, code: Generic. Message: Batch task protection-get failed, [Probe] Device error:  timeout occurred while handling debug power: Timed out trying to power sys and debug region.'

I have double and triple-checked the pin connections of 3V3, SWCLK, SWDIO and GND. What is strange is that it was working before (just once) and I had access to the chip, but after flashing some firmware (the pca10059 firmware), it seemed to brick the device because it no longer responds, and gives said error when trying to reflash it. I also cannot find any mention anywhere of the error online hence why I am here.

[Kenneth]

Hello,

The common problem is that you have by accident enabled pin reset, and then pin reset is pulled low (externally or internally), can you try to force pin reset high (e.g. connect the pin directly to VDD)?

Kenneth

[T.Sanni]

Hello, thank you for your reply. Unfortunately the entire mcu on the dongle is enclosed in a metal shield, with the reset pin not routed out to an external test point, and I was hoping to not tamper with the shield. 
Is there any other ways I may be able to fix it? Also if I have no choice but to buy another, how do I avoid this issue? As all I did was reuse the connectivity firmware and flash it on. Is there a code change I need to make?