How do i erase the memory in my XDA2 of the software that just expired, without HARD-RESETTING my XDA2? Do i need the Registry editor program? Thanks a lot. :lol:
Have you tried using the Remove Programs option in Start/Settings/System?
If you have already done this and are trying to re-install the same application, then it probably has a hidden file or value in the registry or special data written somewhere in memory, but would be very difficult to find any of these.
dcs, what i mean is i want to re-install again a expired software without hard resetting my XDA2. since it would detect that i already installed that particular program.
Yes, sorry, I edited my response above shortly after posting it
So you mean to say that particular memory is hidden in the Registry? Aren't you interested enough to find the exact location of where to erase the memory? On hard re-setting what particular memory are erased?
I am saying that software vendors employ several different methods to ensure that potential customers don't just keep re-installing the software once the trial period has elapsed. By their nature they are difficult to work around. Personally, if I have used software for a trial period and I liked it, then I have bought it .
There are sites where you can request 'work-arounds', but it is not here.
I see...anyway thanks for that wonderful information :lol:
My pleasure
The problem I'm having is that when I go to settings > system > remove programs, it only lists the first 11 programs that I've installed myself, so I cant see / remove newer programs since they are not listed there.
The programs (all cab files) were installed through usb via active sync.
Is there a tweak or a registry setting that can be used to keep that program list updated and show every program installed.
If not, how can I uninstall a program completely from within my phone itself ?
I'm trying to avoid uninstalls through active sync.
I wish I had an answer for you. I have been looking for an Installation Monitor, Registry Monitor, Filesystem Monitor tool for a long time now but I don't think there is one out there. What an Installation Monitor essentially would do is monitor any cab that you install and create a log of what that cab added/modified. That way, when you come to uninstall it you could perform a FULL uninstall and it would truely bring your device back to what it was before you installed the cab.
There are many of these types of tools for Windows XP/Vista but I haven't seen anything for WM6. Also there may be some limitations as these installation logs could be quite long. Regular Windows software such as "Advanced Uninstaller Pro" and they seem to do a good job.
I wish there was one for WM6 because everytime I install something and don't like it and remove it, it seems to leave hundreds of files lying around. I hate that...
The closest thing I have seen to an uninstaller program that goes beyond the standard Windows uninstaller is SKTools. It has an option to perform a "deep scan" for installed programs and it attempts to remove all files that that cab added and revert all registry keys back to their original state. I am still testing it out on Windows Mobile Emulator. It looks like if the original cab didn't create an installation log, WM doesn't know it got installed.
I just experienced this for the first time myself, although I have about 20 programs in my remove programs list. Opera 8.65 doesn't show up in the list of installed programs, even though it is there and still works. I was trying to uninstall it from main memory and try it on the storage card but I guess I'll have to hard reset to really get rid of it. Any other ideas?
There are a lot of great things on this web site, but not much for the real newbie. This submission is to help newbies get up to speed. The concepts and some details here can help almost any newbie with any PDA.
I’ve worked with computers for 30 years since they were driven by “audio cassette” tapes. BUT I’m a PDA newbie! When I got my PDA, a Cingular 8525 (HTC Hermes), I compared it to my last cell phone and was amazed that it had a color screen. I had no clue how I was supposed to get it to do what I wanted it to do. Since I‘m retired, I spent long hours on many days researching, finding free software, and learning and doing things to make it what I wanted. These are the results. I’m not going to go into all the research, just give you the findings and actions. Read your manual or download one from the Internet to learn the very basics of your phone. Try every possible button, menu and program to see what they do. Don‘t be afraid to crash your PDA at this point so long as you know how to do a Hard Reset (HR). I’m not going to give keystrokes on how to find the following data. Just don’t transfer important information to the PDA until later.
First, decide what you need to do versus what you would like it to do. Here’s what I wanted. I travel a lot and wanted a mini computer I could do MS Office work on, access the Internet to take care of business, call home on, find my way in strange locations, and enjoy a little. IOW, do what my desktop does except I wanted to carry it in my pocket.
One thing that will happen while you are doing all the following is that many of the PDA programs will show up as installations in your “Add/Remove Program” program in your Control Panel on your desktop. Since this includes entries going into your registry, it can lead to different problems. I use Norton Ghost back up to totally back up my system drive, let things happen as they will, then restore it back to normal when I’m all done. Then I install only ActiveSync, MyMobiler and Remote Keyboard plus a few others than I want to sync with when I connect occasionally. You should strongly consider doing this yourself.
First, I found out what I had - A full install of WM6 with several programs I really didn’t want and a real problem when I began loading program I wanted - not enough memory. The device says I have 64 Mb of RAM and 128 Mb of Flash memory (this is the “hard disk” storage available). When I looked at memory allocation it said:
Storage Program
Total 44.77 48.77
In Use 10.96 23.55
Free 33.81 25.20
This means out of the 128 Mb of storage 44.77 + 48.77 = 93.54 Mb were available and being used. Where’s the rest? Being taken up by the Extended ROM which holds the installation and system programs you are safer NOT playing with unless you know how to - like RegEdit, Task Manager (not Task), etc. These are system “hidden” files you can play with and really screw up your PDA. With “AdvancedConfiguration” you can set Extended ROM to be read and used. Also, almost ½ of the total available area set aside for Program installation on the hard disk was already used. I tried and found I could NOT delete or move any of the originally loaded files in “Windows” folder. We’re stuck with the bloat.
I haven’t found out for sure but (someone correct me here, please) the Storage seems to be used for a dedicated operating Page File or programs loaded into active operating memory type of work based on how many running programs you have running right now and the Program refers to the actual Flash (hard disk) space set aside for installations. Think of your desktop as having only a 50 Mb hard disk and having to have the operating system, Page File and programs plus storage on it. Doesn’t leave much.
A neat little trick I learned is that when you do a HR and are reinstalling the OS it pauses for 3 seconds with an explanation screen at one point before going on to install other proprietary programs (some of which were junk to me). If you want to know what was different, back up all your personal data and do a HR and let it run fully. Check all the Settings and Programs screens to write down what you have. Do it again but push the Soft Reset (SR) pin in the hole when it gets to that 3 second pause and let it reboot. It will stop the extended installation. When you do this you will find the numbers are now:
Storage Program
Total 44.77 48.77
In Use 5.77 22.85
Free 39.00 25.92
IOW, you cut your Page File use (running programs loaded into memory) by ½ but you didn’t really change what was taking up your Flash memory. That’s because during the install every program is loaded into the “Windows” directory and then installed or not. If not installed, they just sit there and can’t be deleted or moved.
In order to change this memory bloat I had to find a different way. The only way I could find was to “cook” my phone and hope it didn’t turn into a “brick” to throw away or send back to the factory for a fix. I began looking at what was available. Keep in mind that I had written down ALL the programs installed by WM6 full and WM6 Lite (fast SR at 3 second screen). I had decided what I would like to have and what I didn’t need or want. This is important to do before this next step.
I am very experienced at installing lots of OSs over the years from CP/M (really, really old), DOS, Windows XT up to Windows XP (very different from XT) and tweaking the hell out of them. Doing it on the PDA had me a little concerned because it’s so tiny and different (so what, right?). I learned that it really is about the same as my desktop in setup and running. The first time I did it, I was worried and then surprised at how easy and straight forward it was. If you are concerned about this step and have this particular PDA, go to http://www.america.htc.com/support/8525/software-downloads.html , download the most current OS and do an install from your desktop to PDA with it. If your phone bricks send it to the factory, it’s their system. Once you’ve done it, it’s much less worrying. If you have a different phone do a little Google research and/or read more on this forum for your particular phone.
I researched different ROM cooks to see what they had compared to what I wanted. I came up with Shamanix and K-Flex as most likely for me. Their installs went just as easily and safely as the WM6 did. Don’t look at just the pretty colors, look at what programs they have and how they function doing what you want. Do some “WM6 FREE SOFTWARE” Google searches to find out what is available out there and what you can get it to do. Here are the test results with both Full install and Lite install:
Shamanix K-Flex
Full Lite Full Lite
Total 66.18 50.77 66.18 50.77 66.80 44.77 66.80 44.77
In Use 2.66 21.00 2.63 18.77 9.11 28.52 2.78 23.19
Free 63.52 29.77 63.55 31.99 57.69 20.25 64.01 25.70
FIRST - Now 66.18 + 50.77 = 110.95 for Shamanix and 66.80 + 44.77 = 111.57 for K-Flex versus only 93.54 Mb for WM6. Suddenly the OS installation files squeezed out an extra 18 Mb of Flash storage for other things. That’s a LOT when many programs average as little as 200 Kb (fit 90 in that free space). Next, K-Flex used almost as much Flash (hard disk) storage as WM6 but Shamanix only used 18.77 in the Lite install which freed up almost 6 Mb for more programs.
Sounds good, right? Remember, check what each OS provides, how you like the looks and what you want on you PDA. Since camera, media and online gaming usage are not important to me, Shamanix Lite is best for me. It still requires a few additional installs to replace what it doesn’t provide but that’s better than the bloat.
(PLEASE CONTINUE ON NEXT REPLY)
2nd half of first post
(Continued from beginning of thread)
Next, I bought a 2 Gb microSD card. That’s great for storage, but I want to install programs to that location, especially the ones I don’t use very often and can run slow safely (cards are much slower than RAM). Save the Flash storage for anything that needs processing speed like music, video, gaming, etc. Once you have a card installed, every time you want to install a program, it asks where to install. If you have access to ER enabled you can select from Device, Extended ROM or Storage Card. Use Storage Card as 1st, and Device 2nd. I tweak installation folders on my desktop but on the PDA you can’t. If it’s going to the Storage Card it will create the proper folder automatically like most Windows installations do in Program Files. Also, if you already have it loaded, it will tell you it must uninstall the prior one before it can install the new one. Actually, they’ve made PDA pretty idiot proof which is a good thing.
Before I go any further, here are two almost mandatory FREE programs you MUST HAVE!!!! MyMobiler and Remote Keyboard can be found many places. Both will allow you to connect your PDA to your desktop with a USB cable and set your PDA aside while you do everything on your desktop. It gives you a copy of the PDA screen on your monitor you can zoom plus use the normal mouse and keyboard on so long as the mouse is hovering over the PDA screen. Sooooo muchchch eeesieeer!!!!!!! In fact, it should be your first two installs before anything else!
Here’s a helpful hit on installing programs. Many times an installation program will come as a .exe file you run from your desktop. What it usually does is extract and create a folder that will hold a couple of files ending in .CAB. Then it will copy the appropriate .CAB to your mobile device. Then it will run the .CAB for installation. The .CAB is the important part. All the rest essentially sets up your desktop to run the .CAB on your PDA. Many times the installation program will be a .ZIP, .RAR, or other compressed file or even a .CAB file. If it’s a compressed file, uncompress it and look for the .CAB. When looking at .CAB files you will often find several with identical names except for the few letters just before the “.CAB”. These are the same but designed for different types of operating systems. I’m sorry I can’t rediscover the link for the details (maybe someone reading this will give us the link later) but I did learn that those with .ARM, .ARM4, Xscale, or rarely PXA, OMAP, or Samsung S3C24xx are for the newer PDAs running WM5 or WM6. Every PPC2000-2003 and every smartphone on the market (at least that I know of) is an ARM device. The others are for older system. If in doubt, try to run each one. The ones that are incorrect will NOT install. Only the one that IS correct will. From then on you will know which type to copy to your PDA. Once copied to a named folder (I use “Install CABs”) on the Storage Card, they can be simply clicked on at any time and installed. To regain memory or stop using it, use “Remove Programs” in Settings/System to get rid of them. You can reinstall anytime later.
One thing I did was move almost all of the CAB files for the programs I wanted to a designated folder on the Storage Card. One suggestion from others is to rename each CAB with a “#-“ in front of the name with the number corresponding to importance of that CAB to you. That way, when you do a reinstall, or HR, out in the field, your CABs are with you and you can see which ones should be loaded first. This works well if there is some conflict with installs one after another. Personally, I haven’t run into that so I rename them to a shorter name that identifies what it is (e.g. in35prtv33.24.arm4.cab becomes PocketPool.cab). The next thing I do is use the settings or preferences in each program to make a folder on the Storage Card the default folder - like My Documents, Favorites, Downloads, etc. Now they won’t be lost if I have to HR the PDA.
Along with the information in the above paragraphs, I do something else because I’m gone when I’m most using my PDA. On the Storage Card (a copy on each card I have) is the installed programs in the normal “Program” folder which are my operating files and a copy of the “Install CABs” folder which also includes a backup of my Contacts. One additional item is a “Serials” folder in the “Install CABs” folder. This has a .txt file of all the registration codes I need plus copies of all the altered (cracked) files I need if I have to reinstall anything on the road. So long as I can Hard Reset my phone, I can reinstall everything back to normal and continue as I need. Since I have several Storage Cards this is on each card. The balance of the Storage cards will have different eBooks, music, DVDs, etc. that don’t all fit on one card. That way, I have several backups of critical files plus entertainment as needed. I use a small dot of different colored paint on the bottom edge of each card so I can tell which card is in the phone at any time.
With all the above, if my PDA freezes or stops working properly, the universal fix-it is to do a Hard Reset. If that doesn’t work, I’m SOL. If it does I’m in business. All I do is a HR (Lite) and soft reset at the 3 second warning. Then I go back into my Storage Card and reinstall those programs I need to get back to where I can work.
Once you have things loaded and working properly, you can consider tweaking the system. During this process you may have found multiple editions of software you want to use like three different registry editors, five different tweak programs, etc. Go ahead and compare and see which ones you want and delete the rest. On a PDA it’s fairly easy. When everything is said and done, you can do a clean HR and only load those specific versions you want and have a fresh, clean, trim system to backup as your first installation process.
Finally, so you can see the results I came up with in this process, here’s a list of the programs I installed. All are on and working. None of them have to be cleared before I can have room to open another one. These are the final versions of similar programs such that there is minimal overlap but expanded utility when more than one is installed.
Sound Pocket Dictate
Mortgage CALC
WkTASK
Touch Caller
Tao Java
GSFinder+
Pocket Mechanic
Adobe Reader
ActiveX Flash 7
Sompy Media Player
enAlarmPPC
True Term Translator
TT Swedish-English
TT Spanish-English
TT Portugese-English
TT Italian-English
TT German-English
TT French-English
Town Compass US Travel Directory
Town Compass DataViewer
Tagalog for Travelers
SKTools
Paris Guide
Metro
mCity Tours
Google Maps
Flashlight Colors
UniSync
Spb Pocket Plus
tGetFile.dll
MIcrosoft .NET CF 2.0
Maufait Instafind
DinaSoft Tap Text
DinaSoft MemMaid
DinaSoft HandyMenu
CallFirewall
Tab Web Viewer (IE)
Dictionary Manager
Schap's Advanced Config 2.0
Yahtz
Warefare Incorporated
Vision Quest
Trivial Pursuit
Super Wild Wild Words
Space Adventure in Infinite Space
Smart Mahjongg
Dames are Trouble Game
Word Mojo
Ultimate Bowling Fighter
Mazera
Mars Need Cows
Hellfire
Bzzz
Realms
1001 Crossword Puzzle
Xplodus
Xonix
Pocket Spades
Patience
JumpyBall
Hot Death Uno
Advanced Lines
Here are my original results on memory usage.
Storage Program
Total 44.77 48.77
In Use 5.77 22.85
Free 39.00 25.92
Here are the final results
Storage Program
Total 66.18 50.77
In Use 36.55 25.77
Free 29.63 25.00
In other words, by opening and freeing the Extended ROM, Putting as much on the Storage Card as possible and applying a few tweaks for caching and folder locations, I still have almost as much of both Storage and Program Memory as I started with to run almost anything without having to remove and reinstall programs on the fly.
It’s a lot easier than you think and idiot proof in most cases. Don’t fear playing with your PDA and making it what you want. Have fun and ENJOY!
Dr. Ken Rich
Hello,
I am a new AT&T Fuze owner and new in general to Windows Mobile "Professional". (Had a Symbian 60 Device Previously) I have been doing extensive reading and researching to figure out how to accomplish my goals but I keep running into dead ends. I have been searching forums and Google but I find that most information is formatted for people that have been in the community for a long time and understand all of the jargon. There seems to be so many flavors of windows and platforms that it makes my head spin and I also find that words like Smartphone, Pocket PC, Window CE, etc.. are thrown around very loosely.
Sorry for the preamble. Here is what I know so far.
Device = AT&T Fuze
CE OS 5.2.19971 (Build 19971.1.2.6)
CID = HTC_P4600 (Not listed in the WIKI here)
ROM = 1.95.502..5 WWE (10/20/08)
Radio = 1.02.25.32
Protocol = 52.39c.25.22h
First I was wondering if there was a positive way of knowing if a certain piece of software will work with my device and what that spec would be. Like does it go by windows version, phone version, both? Or at least some general rules of thumb what to take note of before trying a piece of software. (If it was designed for or works on other flavors of Raphael is it safe to try?)
My biggest problem at the moment is I can't seem to install anything anymore. I am getting a message about unsigned cabs or files missing. I'm hoping this wasn't something I did but it's a possibility. Some software "PPCPimBackup.exe" will still install but most won't like "Advanced_Configuration_Tool_v3.3.cab". I even tried to make a simple .cab using CeRegEditor to adjust the city string for the weather tab in TF3D. Any help here would be most appreciated. I am very weary of all these so called "unlockers" out there and even read a thread here where someone bricked their device by installing the wrong software for the device.
Is the Fuze the same as the Diamond? (They look identical)
What is the preferred way to back up the entire device or is it even possible with standard software? Most of what I found backs up PIM info.
When a program (Taskmanager 3.1) says to minimize, where does it go? How do you bring it back to the foreground or do you have to install a taskbar manager?
I actually have more I want to ask but that probably wouldn't be prudent. I think if I could help myself better once I understand what software I can and can't use with my phone.
Many thanks in advance and apologize for noobing up your forum =P
Eidolen
I'll try to answer some of your questions.
1) Normally, software will say windows mobile 5 or 6 as a requirement along with maybe .Net Framework. If it's for Windows Mobile most likely it'll work. Just have to try it and see.
2) Your programs are probably not installing because you may not have the required .Net Framework. I know Advance Config requires .Net Framework 3.5. So if you don't have it, install it. You can find it here or from Microsoft's website. You need the Windows CE or Compact version.
3) The Fuze is similar to the Diamond but don't go trying to install ROMs that are made for the Diamond. Use the ones in the Raphael forums.
4) If you want to backup your entire device, use a program such as Sprite Backup. This will make a full backup of entire system excluding ROM. However, if you want to do a restore, you need to make sure you have the same ROM installed, if not, it will create a lot of problems.
5) With TaskManager, when you minimize it just continues to run in the background. Program is still loaded and taking up memory/etc. Similar to when you minimize something in Windows. To bring it back, you can view the TaskManager and restore to foreground.
Hope that helps somewhat.
Wow,
Thanks you for the quick and non condescending reply. I've been surfing more since I posted and hopefully I could get you to elaborate on a few things.
2) Your programs are probably not installing because you may not have the required .Net Framework. I know Advance Config requires .Net Framework 3.5. So if you don't have it, install it. You can find it here or from Microsoft's website. You need the Windows CE or Compact version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the .Net install and it went without a hitch but still no joy. I noticed on the authors support forums that others are having the same problem but no clear solution has been posted. /Sigh
I was thinking I needed to follow a procedure similar to the one listed here where you have to install a certificate and make some policy changes in the registry but since I can't find any info specifically for the Fuze I haven't done anything yet other than download the certificate that was linked in that post.
I should mention I am not a complete computer illiterate, and am fully comfortable with the registry and even more advanced techniques if necessary. I should also mention that I don't plan on replacing my rom at all. Just want to keep it to basic reg hacks, software installs, and some theming once I get things working the way I want.
I did already change one registry policy key (0000101a) to "1" from a thread I found on these forums, as it is something easily changed back but of course it did not help.
4) If you want to backup your entire device, use a program such as Sprite Backup. This will make a full backup of entire system excluding ROM. However, if you want to do a restore, you need to make sure you have the same ROM installed, if not, it will create a lot of problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I will check this out. Sounds like exactly what I was looking for.
5) With TaskManager, when you minimize it just continues to run in the background. Program is still loaded and taking up memory/etc. Similar to when you minimize something in Windows. To bring it back, you can view the TaskManager and restore to foreground.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand what you said but what I was trying to figure out is how to recall it from the background. It doesn't show up in the TF3D task list when it's minimized so I was wondering if you had to click on the task bar or do some certain trick to bring it to the fore-front. The ability to move between programs easily is my biggest gripe so far as I seem to have to open and close the keyboard, hit home or back a lot to move around. I would love the ability to hit some hot key or some secret spot on the screen to launch taskmanager and then I could use it to go to whatever program I wanted.
I have seen a few bugs in TM_3.1 that cause crashes, but it is an awesome program and hopefully the developer will keep working out the bugs. If there is another program you would recommend that accomplished the same type of functionality I'd be interested in trying it out.
Thanks again for your friendly help.
Eidolen
Just looked at the contents of that cab referenced from that link I posted. It is just a Setup.xml file with the following contents.
<wap-provisioningdoc>
<characteristic type="SecurityPolicy">
<parm name="4119" value="144"/>
</characteristic>
</wap-provisioningdoc>
Any thoughts?
As for .Net, the following is from Modaco, and I found that it worked like a charm:
How to install and use .NET Compact Framework 3.5
If you're a developer or have knowledge of .net Compact Framework, you'll be aware that version 3.5 has shipped. You'll be aware that it offers a number of enhancements in features, stability and performance, and you'll likely also know that it provides full backwards compatability with previous versions of the Compact Framework. What you may NOT know is that when CF 3.5 is installed on a device, applications that target previous versions of the Compact Framework will continue to run against the old versions, and 3.5 and previous versions will live side by side on the device. Only when new devices come along will we see ONLY 3.5 on a device.
This presents a number of problems, namely
• Users who deploy CF 3.5 to their device but use applications targeting older versions will not benefit from the 3.5 performance improvements
• Developers who develop apps for pre CF 3.5 frameworks cannot easily test their applications ready for when 3.5 only devices come along
Thankfully, help is at hand in the form of a little known Compact Framework 3.5 powertoy named '.Net Configuration'. The application, which is available at Microsoft, provides the user with full granularity of control over the .net CF on their device. You can see installed versions, change the used CF version for a particular application or change the used CF version for all applications run on your device! Perfect!
Sadly in Microsoft's infinite wisdom the application in question is tucked away in simple EXE inside the 6.2MB download and somewhat hard to find, so i've taken the liberty of packaging it up into a CAB here that installs it with it's own Start Menu shortcut.
- Run '.Net Configuration' from your Start Menu
- Navigate to the 'Device Policy' tab and select version 3.5
- Select 'Apply' then 'OK'
That's it, you're done!
Thanks kindly but I'm guessing now that myself or a piece of software I've installed has borked my ability to install software. It seems I can install exe files but no cabs, including the one you posted will install.
As I've stated I have not made any attempts to unlock anything yet but have installed some software and made some registry tweaks. I wish I could see what exactly is happening like Procmon does for windows to pinpoint the problem, but I might just have to resort to a hard reset if I can't figure it out.
I'm open to any ideas but if I don't figure it out tonight I guess I'll reset tomorrow. Thanks for the guidance and help.
Cheers,
Eidolen
@eidolen
You have a SD card?
Gimme some time and I write you a little 101 how to deal with the Fuze.
eidolen said:
Thanks kindly but I'm guessing now that myself or a piece of software I've installed has borked my ability to install software. It seems I can install exe files but no cabs, including the one you posted will install.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
eidolen said:
I did already change one registry policy key (0000101a) to "1" from a thread I found on these forums, as it is something easily changed back but of course it did not help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might want to double-check that registry hack to make sure it's correct. Seems like a big coincidence that the one registry hack you've made so far is to allow unsigned cabs to install and the biggest problem you seem to be having is that you can't get unsigned cabs to install....
eidolen
You have a SD card?
Gimme some time and I write you a little 101 how to deal with the Fuze.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ordered my SD card yesterday =/ Hopefully be here soon. Still very interested in the 101 though!
You might want to double-check that registry hack to make sure it's correct. Seems like a big coincidence that the one registry hack you've made so far is to allow unsigned cabs to install and the biggest problem you seem to be having is that you can't get unsigned cabs to install....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I gave that a shot but no joy. That wasn't the only reg hack I did but the only relating to "Unlocking". I haven't touched anything I wasn't pretty sure about. For instance I have looked at all the tweaks for speeding up the TF3D using cache setting but the numbers don't match so I never tried it. If I didn't understand what the tweak was I stayed away.
I did the PTT button tweak for voice/camera and played around with the cities for the weather app. Other than that I can't think of anything else I touched in the registry but I did a lot of looking.
On the other hand I have installed a good bit of software to try out. I have also rearranged my menu items by deleting shortcuts in the start menu folder. Even though I've done a good bit to the phone I think it might be best to start from scratch with a hard reset and start again with the knowledge I've gained in the past few days. My Opera browser has been getting a real workout with 40+ tabs going =P
I did find another thread here that has someone with a similar problem but the way it happened was entirely different. His fix was to wipe the phone and use the same software I was trying to install when I found this problem.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=3038792#post3038792
I took ecltech's advice and got Sprite Backup and made a backup already. I would rather fix the problem but it sounds like it might be difficult tracking it down so I'm prepared to start again. What would be great is finding some guide or general direction in what programs and or tweaks I should install and in what order and any other pertinent information regarding starting from scratch. "The Must Have" utilities and programs.
I can't believe how helpful everyone's been so far considering this is a developers board. I figured it was worth the risk to get chewed in the hopes of getting the best advice. With all the info surfing I've been doing it's clear that this is the site where it all happens.
Cheers and thanks again,
Eidolen
OMG!
I'm almost too afraid to admit it but at least I feel good that I figured it out on my own. I was smart enough to make a backup of the registry with CeRedEditor before doing anything major and remembered it had a compare feature. After loading it up It immediately occurred to me to look at HKCR\cabfile and that's where I found my answer.
I had downloaded a little free utility from SKTools called Cabinstaller that allows you to choose where programs get installed. Somehow the registry entry it made didn't correctly point to the executable. In any case I think I installed it late the other night and forgot about it because the exe files I installed after that installed fine. I should have tested it immediately and I wouldn't have had this problem. /sigh
Thank you everyone for the help and ideas and even though I've fixed this problem I still might do a full reset and start from scratch now that I got all mentally prepared to do it and start over feeling a little more confident in what I'm doing.
While it's on my mind right now and since I never got a solution for the question in my first post, is there a hack or small little program that will allow you to put a shortcut in either the top bar where the start menu is or in the bottom where the shortcut for the on screen keyboard is so I can invoke the Task Manager easily to help with navigating? I wouldn't even be opposed to a shortcut in the TF3D pop-up you get when clicking on the top right bar. It would be great if this could be done with a bloated program but not opposed to it if the program is useful.
Thanks again everyone. I guess I'll start a new post for any new questions. (I have lots but will try and figure out as much as I can by myself first.)
Cheers,
Eidolen
eidolen said:
I
I took ecltech's advice and got Sprite Backup and made a backup already. I would rather fix the problem but it sounds like it might be difficult tracking it down so I'm prepared to start again. What would be great is finding some guide or general direction in what programs and or tweaks I should install and in what order and any other pertinent information regarding starting from scratch. "The Must Have" utilities and programs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you're probably right about starting again from scratch. It would probably be less work than tracking down what's causing your problem and then you'll be starting with a cleaner slate for installing everything going forward.
There are a few different threads on here about what constitutes "must have" apps for the Fuze and the one thing I can say is that no two people agree on the list! Your best bet is to seach out those threads and see which ones you think would be most useful to you. A great place to get started is at http://www.blownfuze.org using username and password 'xda' (without the quotes)
My suggestions for the generic must haves are:
Total Commander
PHM Registry Editor (or whichever reg editor you prefer)
Diamond Tweak
Diamond TF3D Config
Other basic programs that might be worth checking out depending on what you do on your fuze are:
PocketShield or S2U2 for locking the phone
TCPMP Core Media Player
TorchButton for using the LED flash as a flashlight
BeyondPod or pRSS Reader for RSS feeds and podcasts
GoogleMaps and/or Live Search
Good luck!
Sprite backup is included in your Fuze as original software. I always keep a full backup copy on my Sd card of a good clean WM 6.1 install with all the must have tweaks done already. You will find it saves alot of headaches when you mess something up trying things out. After that I do a weekly backup as I add more and more stuff over time.
does diamond TF3D Config or diamond tweak work with this ROM version?
Thanks yzf750, I am preparing to do just that. I am getting prepared for a hard reset now once I notate what I want to keep that's on my phone already. Hopefully I can get it set up by the time my SD card arrives this coming week and can do the backup to it for keeps.
I read a blog post about doing a soft reset after a hard reset to prevent the ATT software from installing and I think I really want to try that. I just need to make sure I install the stuff I want to keep like TF3D manually afterwards. I'm hoping to find a more detailed guide for the procedure than what was posted though.
I'll post back and report if the smoke genie escapes or not.
Eidolen
some n00b guidance
Ok so i have been looking at these forums for a few days now doing homework before i even get the phone(its ordered). So my questions are
1. if i have AT&T unlock the phone(i know someone who works there so i hope they can help out) do i still need to do the hardspl to change radios etc?
2. Whats really the difference between all these roms built by users and just using BuildOS(im assuming this works on GSM phones and not just CDMA because its from PPC) to build your own ROM? and do most of these tweeks come prebuilt into these roms or do u still need to to other stuff? i.e reg tweaks etc, like i think it would be better for me to just build a rom with BuildOS with the apps i want etc and not keep flashing all the time
3. Is GPS still a problem for people?, i think ill just use tomtom or garmin and hope for the best as its not a huge concern. After looking around i guess its just a matter of finding the radio that works best for the individual, so anyone in the .US new england area have any recommendations of the best radio in the northeast like NYC area?
4. whats a good order to do this stuff?, i plan on using the phone for a couple days or so as stock just to get the general feel of the OS in general. then prolly flash the ROM with a custom BuildOS ROM(unless someone can provide the difference between BuildOS and say PROven ROM), then do w.e else needs to be done. ive seen the recommeded tweaks, just not sure if they still need to be done with a flashed ROM. not really looking for a game phone more office apps like RDP and irc etc, sys admin tools
Basically i think theres just a ton of info on here which is a good thing but im just getting started on Winmo although flashing etc dosent intimidate me so im eager to get started just a little unclear on some things and cant seem to find the answer just surfing, so any help or links to some stuff i might have missed is appreciated. Pretty much just want a smooth runnin ROM thats not stock of course, decent gps reception and the apps i want. thanks all
Look here, I made a little write-up for the basics using a stock ATT ROM. I ran this routine actually twice on my phone (ROM flashing junkie) so it should be fairly complete.
I have to note that, in most cases at least, I know what I do and can "recover" from a ROM flash within ~ 30 minutes, having all software, tweaks and contacts restored.
Regarding ROMs
That's an open can of worms with two next to it waiting. Read the threads and read the problems and decide later if you want to flash or not. If you are not used to WinMo phones it's perhaps better to hold back a week or two.
Some ROMs are built from original Raphael builts others are based on WinMo 6.1 but contain partially applications and tweaks from other HTC devices. The latest build # need not to be the best. For example RRE's ROM is based on the original ATT ROM and he created a really nice good performing ROM while other Chefs rip out first all guts and basics of a ROM (making it "naked") adding features and programs later. That's a more or less political discussion what's better and what's not and you have to decide yourself based on what you read and/or experience. For MY part I know Monx/HT from the Tilt times and always appreciated his work and speedy ROMs and he continued the same line on the Raphael/Fuze though it took him some time to come where he is right now.
As said all political in that regards, almost all ROMs out there ARE GOOD and have advantages in the one or the other area.
Tweaks
Yes the tweaks work even for a stock ATT ROM with ATT's TouchFlo/Manila (though I think it's plain ugly).
GPS
Again a difficult subject. For example the stock GPS (enabled or disabled assisted GPS settings) works kinda well with google maps BUT doesn't perform as expected with 3rd party GPS apps (TomTom, iGO). Keep in mind a lot came from other devices and for example iGO on the Tilt rocked down to the street number with no lag at all where the Fuze is doing more "guesstimating" than performing (compared to the Tilt).
Backup
Do a PIM backup once or twice a week and do a FULL backup once a week or if you installed new software after you confirm that you like it. If you wreck your phone for whatever reason AND you stay with the SAME ROM a full restore will work.
Just Wow!
That's an impressive piece of work there. I haven't stopped reading or poking around while I'm waiting for my SD card to get here and had quite some experience today. I did read the thread regarding doing a "Non-Bloat" Install and actually started to do it but stopped when I realized there still seems to be some residual bugs to the process. I figured for now even with the little bit of confidence I've gained I'd wait on that a little longer.
I did jot some info down while it was still "Bloat-Free" for anyone interested:
Bloatfree Services:
App Service APP1:
USSD APP8:
Push to Talk PTT0:
EnlargeStartMenuEMX0:
HTC IMS service IMS0:
STK Service AP15:
LargeTitleBar AP21:
HtcServices HSV2:
Keypad KBD1:
Bluetooth Audio Gateway BAG0:
Software Disable Dialog Service SDD0:
Sync Bluetooth Server ASV0:
Software Management Service SWM0:
Certificate Enroll Engine CES0:
SNApi SNA0:
DPT DPY0:
LAS LAS0:
Credential Manager CRD0:
Notify NFY0:
OBEX OBX0:
Bluetooth HID Loader BHL0:
SqmUpload SQM0:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bloatfree Processes:
NK.exe
RegistryCSPTool.exe
OperaPreL.exe
poutlook.exe
sapsettings.exe
opera9.exe
htcimssvc.exe
tmail.exe
cecmd.exe <--Total Commander
conmgr.exe
TaskMgr.exe <--duh
rapiclnt.exe
repllog.exe <--activesync
biotouch.exe
shell32.exe
QuickGPS.exe
VoiceCMD.exe
SIPGT_app.exe
services.exe
filesys.exe
gwes.exe
manilla.exe
device.exe
cprog.exe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I forgot to check the memory and storage readings sadly but I figured this list could be checked against the full bloat version to see what processes and services could be killed. I figured I'd play with a full working install so if anything didn't work I would know it was from myself or software I installed instead of guessing if it was a side effect of the no bloat process. Also I could learn what the bloat was and strip it away.
Once I decided on Bloat I started a Log/Diary of everything I did for my own reference and thought it might be useful for troubleshooting later. Everything was going smooth until I decided to take on the behemoth named RealVGA.
Luckily I made a full Sprite backup previous to playing with it and am reinstalling that backup as I write this.
If there is one piece of advice I could give from the little knowledge I've gained so far is that most of the upper-end hacks/tweaks software that is available are living breathing complex entities and are not to be taken lightly. Each one needs to be thoroughly researched and understood before using unless you have an older device that has been supported for a long time. I find very little information on using most software regarding the Fuze even though it is very similar to other devices. Truth is, it is not identical which can make things hairy at times. Anyway the more you fail, the more you learn.
For other Fuze owners out there I'll post my personal log so you have an idea what programs I had trouble with and what I tried to do to resolve them. For sure I had huge problems with RealVGA as well as PocketCM and PocketCm Keyboard. It's a shame too as they all are outstanding upgrades.
Well I think I'll be ready for your tutorial when my card gets here so I will be sure to report back to let you know how it went. I already learned a lot just from reading it. For one I didn't know you could do anything over usb if you cancelled the ActiveSync. I just used that trick while restoring my phone and still haven't done a sync. I'm sure that guide will be a huge help to many like myself.
Huge Thanks!
Eidolen
PHP:
Diary of a Blown Fuze (Blown Attempt that is)
Just a stream of consisnous, sorry if some doesn't make sense
Log got more vebose as I went.
"Fresh Bloated Install"
Boot
Set Weather City
Configure WiFi
Calibrate G-Sensor
==================================
Memory:
Storage======Program
Total 294.53 || Total 200.99
In Use 74.05 || In Use 70.93
Free 220.48 || Free 130.06
==================================
Turn off Auto Backlight - Adjusted Settings
Removed Programs - I Play Jewel
Configured all settings under "All Settings" tab
=====================================================
Having keyboard problems where it is unresponsive. Had to use on-screen KB
to write user information. Also had KB lag a few times afterwards but not
as severe.
=====================================================
SYNC (Merged 89 file items)
Install NETCFSetupv35.msi
Install netcfcfg.cab
Install tcmdpocketarm.cab
Configured .Net to use 3.5
Installed Advanced_Configuration_Tool_v3.3.cab
Create Sprite Backup "Fresh Install" ACT3.3 not config yet
=========================================================
Phone supplied Sprite backup software reported "backing up 85mb" but when finished
the file is only 144kb! Not sure what happened. Will try to initiate
a backup from the desktop software.
=========================================================
Initiated Full Desktop Version backup "Fresh Install 2 FULL" 93.03M
Ended with file size of 60.3M
**********************************************************
Configure Advanced Config Tool:
User Interface ->
Horizontal Icon Spacing: 150
Vertical Icon Spacing: 140
Icon title font size: 8
Popup Menu Font Size: 800
Power Management ->
All either default or "Advised" setting if applicable
Screen ->
Show Orientation: Yes (default)
Keyboard Backlight Timeout: 15sec
Suggested Words: 3
Network ->
Device friendly Name: #####
Phone ->
Show All Call History: Yes
Call History Clean: Never
Show Battery Icon: Yes
Show Band: Yes
Bluetooth ->
BT Device Name: #####
GPS ->
Logfile Size: 32K
Internet Explorer ->
4 Way Navigation: Disabled
Clear Type: Enabled
Search Page: Google
Max Connections Per Server: 8
Messaging ->
SMS Delivery Notification: Yes
Use Unicode Support: Yes
Symc Sent Items: Yes
Show Roaming: Yes
Calendar ->
Show Lunar: Yes
Show Events in Week View: Yes
Camera ->
Capture Key Delay: Enabled
Key Delay: Enabled
HTC Animation ->
Volume: 90
HTC Camera Album ->
OK Button: Close
Misc:
Auto Daylight Savings Switch: Yes
Show Daylight Savings Notification: Yes
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<Noticed lots of options missing from last time I used this program before the hard reset like more font sizes among other things>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
**************************************************************
Sprite Resore "PIM_2008-12-13.exe" PIM info Only
Contacts Restored but no TF3D settings were retained
(No contacts in TF3D, Messages, etc..)
Set up both email accounts
Set Up online AB LDAP
Adjusted Camera Settings
Copied My Pictures,Notes, Ringtones, PTT shortcuts and other "Files" back to device using Sprite Explorer File=2008-12-14.exe
Extracted "Browser Favorites" From Sprite Explorer /System Settings 2008-12-14.exe
Hand Edit Opera.ini
Transferred Some opera files (wand.dat, cookies, images) using Sprite Explorer 2008-12-14.exe
Transferred a pantload of s/w to be installed
Installed Diamond_TF3D_Config_Setup_v0.6.7.cab
(Made speed adjustments and removed Worldcard and "Unknown" TAB. Also "Unlocked" Noticed program launcher shows a ton of empty entries.)
Install ResPack128dpi.ARM.CAB
Install ResPack96dpi.ARM.CAB
(Sprite backup crashed on reboot from ResPack96dpi.ARM.CAB)
InstallRealVGA_11.CAB
Install missing ipxxx.dll's and screen went black then rebooted
**** my Pants *chant* no-brick no-brick no-brick
Watched it reboot. Something crashed but then TF3D loaded with tiny fonts!! (128dpi)
Modified Menu Icon spacing for 4 in a row. (Want to tweak further if I keep RealVGA)
=================================================================================
HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Shell\
Add New Key "IconConfig"
In there Add DWORD Value:
"HorizontalIconSpacing" Dec value="112"
"VerticalIconSpacing" Dec value="115"
"IconTitleFontSize" Dec value="6"
==================================================================================
Notice a small black band on TF3D screens at the bottom. Acts as part of the tabs
Total commander toggle icon bar does not fully open up.
Contact all people link does not work
Contacts from Start Menu does not Work
Phone does not work
Installed respack96outlookfix.cab and Changed to 96 DPI now contacts and phone works!!
Adding Contacts in TF3D very buggy, auto puts in a picture somehow and have to go back and change it.
NVM...It selects the pics I had assigned before the reset somehow. Cool!
On Screen Keyboards Very Borked (Only Partially Visiable) Trying PocketCM Keyboard for VGA *Crosses Fingers*
It works but no colors, just plain Gray *humph!*
===============================================================
Config Fonts in Advanced config tool
UI ->
H Scroll Width: 25
V Scroll Width: 25
H Arrow Size: 32
V Arrow Size: 32
Icon Title Font Size: 16 (Was 6)
Menu Bar Font: Large
Popup Menu Font Size: Large
===============================================================
Reset
Home TF3D Screen buggy, Tabs at bottom are doubled up. Clears when used to scroll but large black bar at bottom now
Wow! TF3D Communtications screen is really toast! It shows in upper left screen and at least it works but it's almost unreadable.
Not noticing any change in fonts so far
"All Settings" Won't Launch. Ouch!
Umm, System Locked up hard
Tried sliding keyboard and heard sound and title bars appreared but no luck, home and back not work either
It let me reboot with switch at least, not reset button
Tried Unticking "Disable Skin" in RealVGA
Reboot
"All Settings" Still Borked
reboot
Start Menu -> settings locks up too *cry*
Reboot!
Maybe result of font settings in ACT?
Might be time to do a restore =(
===============================================================
Config Fonts in Advanced config tool
UI ->
H Scroll Width: 19
V Scroll Width: 19
H Arrow Size: 20 (default)
V Arrow Size: 20 (default)
Icon Title Font Size: 10 (Was 16)
Menu Bar Font: Large
Popup Menu Font Size: Large
===============================================================
Reboot
RealVGA is nice but not sure it's worth this effort. Just too many problems.
Noticed graphics in TF3D are much slower and laggy now as well.
"All Settings" still borked Not sure what else to try at this point.
Good info on this subject is hard to come by. Most ppl seem to have good luck with this app.
Went to re-tick the skin option in RealVGA but it was still ticked. hmmm
What I think is needed is an app that could swap resolutions on the fly with a hotkey. ( Prolly not technically possible)
At least you could have normal usage and only use for certain apps that really benefit from it.
After another reboot the "Disable phone skin" is checked again. Guess it can't be unticked.
Un-ticked "No enlarge title Bar" in Diamond TF3D Config
I am able to open the "Programs" link from the start menu, wonder why settings is screwed.
Tried settings again, no joy, was able to use home key though this time. Not locked up.
Start menu does not work now though. Yikes, had to use reset this time.
Throws arms in the air!
Hard Reset =(
You are funny eidolen.
If you want copy the files I provided to your device (since you don't have a DS yet) and play with it.
You'll hard reset anyway when the SD arrives - LOL
Your also going to find at some point that the more and more tweaks and modifications you make,more problems will start sufacing. I was a rom flashing junkie like many on this forum for 2 years. Since I replaced my prior phone with the Fuze I am running just the stock rom without bloatware and a FEW select tweaks (includes radio change). It runs fast, works good and I dont have to soft reset it all the time.
Take a look at every custom rom, Im not putting any of them down, but after time the threads on them become 100 plus pages long, the number of other fixes to get them running right become impossible to keep track of. It becomes a daily job of just trying to keep that rom working without breaking some other feature or getting it to work right. They put out weekly fixes on most custom roms. They start out with the right intention, but it soon becomes just a bloated non oem rom after time.
Its addicting and fun, but at some point a person just wants to use the phone instead of hard resetting it all the time, flashing roms nightly and trying to figure out how to fix stuff in each rom.
I reached that point now and my fuze is outstanding without having to spend days tinkering with it. It is snappy, reponsive and ALL the software I have installed on it works, and the GPS works flawlessly even inside my house.
But again, your "hands on" approch as your doing now, is probaly the best way to learn
teh bestest
between these last few posts and my little chat with our neighbors PPC on there irc channel i am pretty confident i know what the deal is now, you guys have been a great help, i think im going to play a bit with some roms of course but eventually land on a bloat free standard rom with some added apps like putty and irc etc for sysadmin work, on that note yzf750 could u tell me exactally what u have running on yours sounds like its what im looking for.