Child friendly ROM - 8125, K-JAM, P4300, MDA Vario ROM Development

I was wondering if anyone already tried to create a ROM wich is child friendly.
I have an old Wizard that I might give to my son of 5 to play with.
I also provided a SIM card into the device so that My wife or I can call him when he is at his grandparrents. But most roms provide so many applications and to easy access to the configuration, that it is too easy for my son to screw it up.
So I was looking for a ROM that has an easy menu with BIG buttons.
Most required items requested.
Windows Live Messenger
Games (like bubbe breaker, etc...)
Dailer with only programmed pictures (so he can not call to the bahamas : )
Configuration of the device should be possible after inserting a password.
Anyone any idea?
Bror

Bump great idea!!!
I really like this idea... really like it!
I suppose that with MANILA it is possible to set the contacts programs and and everthyng... I just don't know how to password protect the settings.
How smart is your 5 yearold?
Also, I know that the wizard was built to last, but how do you know he won't drop it?
I think that you should start collecting programs and games. I think that limiting the access to the settings can be done with initflashfiles.dat OEM_LANG.provxml.
You could access the settings via activesync or pocket controler on the computer, and you could also create shotrcuts to all the settings programs on a separate storage card.
If you know of any programs that limit settings for ppc let me know. I really like this idea!!

S.V.I said:
How smart is your 5 yearold?
Also, I know that the wizard was built to last, but how do you know he won't drop it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He is smart enough to watch closely my actions and to copy them directly. Even experimenting and learning from the results. This last thing bothers me, coz I do not want to spend every night to put everything in order.
But I can assure you that he does take care for it. From time when driving I already asked him to pick up the phone and he knows to take care.
I do not think this ROM should need much fancy things...
Call firewall is nice to block unwanted incoming/outgoing phonecalls. So having this in the autostart would be fine.
A replacement for the startmenu but with a password which then gives access to the config settings... (could not yet find anything like this)
On the today maybe 2 manila buttons which is contacts and applications (just a matter of configuration)
Windows Live (so he can send voiceclips in stead of typing)
Lot's of games (sandbox, bubblebreaker)
Browser with youtube support (yes, he knows to handle youtube)
Camera ( He likes to take ugly pictures of his younger brother)
all the rest like mobile office and calculater, ... can be left away...
Of coarse a good configuration of the buttons will be important too
Do you have any idea which should be included ?
Cheers,
SirSkull

sirskull said:
I was wondering if anyone already tried to create a ROM wich is child friendly.
I have an old Wizard that I might give to my son of 5 to play with.
I also provided a SIM card into the device so that My wife or I can call him when he is at his grandparrents. But most roms provide so many applications and to easy access to the configuration, that it is too easy for my son to screw it up.
So I was looking for a ROM that has an easy menu with BIG buttons.
Most required items requested.
Windows Live Messenger
Games (like bubbe breaker, etc...)
Dailer with only programmed pictures (so he can not call to the bahamas : )
Configuration of the device should be possible after inserting a password.
Anyone any idea?
Bror
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Windows Live Messenger for a 5yo? Oh my...
Why not get him a mobile that was actually designed for kids of his age? I heard there is one on the market - makes calls to programmed numbers only, has a few games, plays music etc.

He fancys dad's phone and is keen on the games on it. So since I have a 2nd Wizard here where the screen is slightly scratched, I do not mind giving this to him. He knows how to use the messenger voiceclips, so when he is at home he can use messenger to chat with me. This would reduce the MobilePhone calling costs. And no, skype is no option since I am not aloowed to install this on my company pc + skype is blocked by the firewalls at my work.

Buy him a Nintendo DS. It'll be more expensive, but it'll also be a lot less work at your end, because I guarantee something awful like deleting system files will happen more often than you care to realize.
I foresee many flashings and re-flashings to this phone...
That said, I'd put a manila-flavored ROM on it, and unless you have an unlimited data plan, I'd load Modaco's NoData, lock out all data transmissions except the phone, and remove the shortcut to make NoData harder to find (along with any other settings-related functions. You can also hide the whole Settings directory in QuickMenu, and then turn it back on when you need to adjust something for him.

Parental Controls
I am thinking about givign my 13 y/o one of these as a cellphone... I have an 8925 and so does my older stepsone... MY 13 y/o needs a little more constant supervision.... I am not too concerned aobut bigger buttons and such.. but about child frendly as in parents can have some sort of parental password before the kids do certian things (like Vista does)... Say before he calls someone outside of his contacts list or adds someone to it.... makes a call after a certian time... or even limit the number of min he can use or something.. Any suggestions on any of that?

there is a way to get rid of the file explorer as well as the settings menu. without the file explorer you have no access to the windows folder... but you should also realize that you can not delete files that are in rom... however you still have access to the settings apps in the windows folder.
This is what I would do:
1: delete the shortcuts to file explorer and other program shortcuts and move them into a folder to a blank storage card.
2: set the last programs shortcut in the start menu to "total commander on this storage card. since the program can not be activated without the storage card inserted, you have no access to settings.
3. gather all of the "parental control programs" and post the cabs here on thos thread so that they can be cooked in to the rom, without the shortcuts... shortcuts can be made into a cab... or manual copy/paste shortcuts or even autorun CPY1/CPY2 to storage card upon hard reset (hardware buttons)
I think that the most important part for the parents to realize, is that the child should not be limited too much. this is an opportunity for these youths to get a first hands on experience of technology, as well as understanding of computers.
Up untill now these devices were too expesive to hand off to children, now that they have gotten old and cheap, they are perfect tools to help with a child developing their inteligence (problem solving, writing, counting, organization... etc)
there are enough repressed children without life exerience out there. no sex no drugs and no rock and roll unless it is 20 years old and have been tested and proven by Dysney Corp (who put phalic symbols in every movie)
dont be a fashist parent and keep in mind that kids need to learn from experience. I will not cook a rom that limits that.

S.V.I said:
3. gather all of the "parental control programs" and post the cabs here on thos thread so that they can be cooked in to the rom, without the shortcuts...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Call Firewall v1.4 can block selected incoming and outgoing calls. It only needs a macro application in order to minimize (and maybe save) the application after it started up.
S.V.I said:
there are enough repressed children without life exerience out there. no sex no drugs and no rock and roll unless it is 20 years old and have been tested and proven by Dysney Corp (who put phalic symbols in every movie)
dont be a fashist parent and keep in mind that kids need to learn from experience. I will not cook a rom that limits that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My son is free to experiment with my second device (my wife will become angry when she would read this. She thinks I making a geek of him. I call it technological self deployment )

As a mom of twin 8 year olds...
I cannot cook, however, having 8 year old twins, I know exactly what you are asking for. My kids are techies and love to play around with my wizard, so I think it is safe to say that I understand where you are coming from.
NTS made a WM6 rom quite some time back, which is crazy stable and fast. It is a dinosaur by today's rom standards, however, my kids mess with my phone and it has yet to freak out, crap out, or anything. I would be happy to upload it for you. It is pretty minimal to begin with, and if you add HTC Home, delete a few shortcuts, add one or two programs like tcpmp and call firewall, and some games, I think it would fit your needs. This rom is NOT fancy, does not have manilla, sliders, or any real bells or whistles--it is close to 2 years old, but again, it is crazy stable and seemingly twin proof. The rom is called Jaguar 3.1 if you want to search the threads for it to read up...the links are all dead though. I still have it on my wizard, and while I have tried updated roms, I keep going back to this one because it plays well with children.

Always happy to test this Jag 3.1 Rom. Maybe we can adopt this version into WM6.1

Crazy stable, childproof= yay Jag!!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=314660&highlight=jaguar
This link is for Jag 3.1 rom. The rom download links are dead, but if you want to read about it...
As far as childproof roms go, I absolutely swear by Jag!
I can upload it if you want to give it a test drive.

Looks promising... Can you make the rom available too? I'll see what my son thinks about it then.

Linky...
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=SO1U6CLF
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
This is a link to the Jaguar 3.1 rom-- created by nottoosmart.
As I said, it is an older WM6 rom, without any real bells or whistles, but it is amazingly stable and kid-friendly. You can install HTC Home (the version for WM5 works best), call firewall, tcpmp for movies and cartoons (using an sd card for storage) and some games and it would be pretty much ready to go.
I do not know if Manilla will work on this rom as I have not tested it myself, but HTC Home can be customized, thanks to the program by emunutz.
It does support Google Maps, Skype, Skyfire browser and those types of "grown up" apps-- so just because it plays well with kids, doesn't mean it isn't capable of kicking ass.
Enjoy.

Related

Funman v.1 Faria Base Rom

IMPORTANT
You MUST have an IPL and SPL at 2.xx or higher (BOTH not just one or the other).
The Phone NEEDS to be CID unlocked or it will not flash correcly​
Well I have been keeping my Faria Base Rom to my self uptill now. But I have run out of ideas what I can do to it.
Well I have made my version that is is simple but has some very usful apps.
I would like to have 3-5 People test out for me and tell me what can be changed, if it is ok like I am thinking of maybe putting it out there for people to play with. But it all depends on the poeple that test it.
So my ROM is for someone that would like a FAST and stable rom that has just what is needed.
Rom version; 2.18.0.0
Build aku 15341 aku.4.0.0.01 WWE
Radio version recommended 2.19
Splash screen Funman v.1
31Mb Free Ram on boot
43Mb Free File space
Whats in the Rom :-
Apps (Program)
Total Commander 2.5PB2
dotFred TaskManager 2.7
Screen Capture
Pocket RAR 3.60
NotePad
Gotan (Like Bubble Breaker, but alittle longer)
Adobe Reader LE v.2.0
Windows Live Messager
Windows Live v.10.6.0026.1400
Live Search v.1.0.2592.31374 (Linked with Google setup, not Mircosoft)
Apps (Settings)
Check Notifications v.1.9
PIM Backup v.1.9.0.0
SMS Notifier v.1.2
SynchroTime v.0.94
HTC X-Button
Other
Comm manger 10 button is installed
Startclean
Bluetooth in Start Menu
Office folder taken from Start Menu to Programs
Added a default SMS MP3
Default Set to UK settings
Reg Hacks
Moved IE cashe to SD card
Scroll bars are thinner
System Sounds are turned off by defalut
Power Batt set to 5mins
Power External set to 5mins
Backlight set to 2nd lowest, batt 5mins turnoff, External 5mins turnoff
Cleartype on both port and lang
Text size to 2nd lowest
Taken out of the ROM
All Themes
All Wav, MP3, and any other useless media files (for Ringer, just place a mp3 in My Documents on your phone or in your card). Please note that you will see the 3 default, but these do not work
MMS items (Will be doing two ways, one with, one without) I don't have these in by default as when I sync I get them all.
Old Keyboard and replaced with mUn Keyboard Skin
Old PhonePad and replaced
SAP
SIMManger
Autoupdate
VoIP
Voicecommand
Transcriber
Java manager
With this Rom you should not have any problems with speed, It runs fast and when using BS it will run faster, but not really used it so dont know if your phone will smoke!!
Download link
Will come soon​
........................................................
Closed for now!!! Need to look at something! Dont know when I will have the time to look at again!​
Tester please complete below:-
Top 10 Good points of the Rom
Top 10 Bad points of the Rom
Apps found useful
Apps no use for
Volunteer
I volunteer... gladly... my basic requirements are working outlook and windows live... and windows media player... i don't need mms... lemme know if this suits your rom
Hey Funman!
Good job [email protected]@
Like to try it out during my transition to the new one build!
I'm ok and in the position....
Let me know if I can testify for ya!
Take care!
Hey funman your rom looks great.
I can test for you. Let me know.
Bye.
Rom looks Great... Def willing to test this puppy!!
Hey your roms looks great to me.
So I volunteer...
Downloading now will report back!!!
Thanks
suggestions
I have got 31mb free ram on boot.
It is quite fast.
Suggestion
What to ADD:
New office2k7
New HTCtask manager 1.5
Audio manager
Java manager
New Sim manager
And Smartskey(it is one of the most useful application)
What to remove:
Customer Feedback
Error repoting
(I think these two are the most unuseful thing.)
Thanks, and there is no extended rom, and if you plan one then move it windows folder for G4 support.
samy.3660 said:
I have got 31mb free ram on boot.
It is quite fast.
Suggestion
What to ADD:
New office2k7
New HTCtask manager 1.5
Audio manager
Java manager
New Sim manager
And Smartskey(it is one of the most useful application)
What to remove:
Customer Feedback
Error repoting
(I think these two are the most unuseful thing.)
Thanks, and there is no extended rom, and if you plan one then move it windows folder for G4 support.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Java manager (Left out as my Rom is made for the person that like min but useful, and this is not useful!!!)
New Sim manager (Took out as pointless, as with pimbackup on the phone, you dont need to save your contacts tot he SIMcard)
And Smartskey(it is one of the most useful application) I left it ou as it is not need!!! But you do have the button mapping, but i would not use it for boasting the CPU
New office2k7 Thought about this, and i did put itin there, but took it out again as the new one does not give much yet, as 2007 is not so widly used for the lose of rom space!!!
New HTCtask manager 1.5 Well did not know of this update, so i guess i could add it Do you know what is better?
Well I did not add the extended rom for that reason!!! So maybe will have to put the MMS stuff back in to the ROM
I think its bricked...
It finished flashing... went off... n now it wont start back up again....
Removed the battery and put it back in... its come on now... whew!! it sure gave me a scare at that point...
love the splash screens....
here we go with the set up...
Customising now... will update one its done...
its fast for sure...
Lotsa stuff i dont need... t zones... tmobile customisation...
CPU usage stays low between 1 - 3%. Will update battery drain once it settles...
One can get rid of error reporting and autoupdate... both are useless tools for a custom ROM
Have always had a problem with memory leak and suspect its because of tmail.exe... i use a lot of mail... outlook, windows live and sms put together would easily be more than 200 a day... this seems to be leaking as well... am already down to 25mb within an hour but that culd be because its updating my outlook mail... havent set up windows live yet...
more updates will follow in the morning... my wife's gonna lock the room door from inside anytime now...:-/
rajivshastri said:
Lotsa stuff i dont need... t zones... tmobile customisation...
CPU usage stays low between 1 - 3%. Will update battery drain once it settles...
One can get rid of error reporting and autoupdate... both are useless tools for a custom ROM
Have always had a problem with memory leak and suspect its because of tmail.exe... i use a lot of mail... outlook, windows live and sms put together would easily be more than 200 a day... this seems to be leaking as well... am already down to 25mb within an hour but that culd be because its updating my outlook mail... havent set up windows live yet...
more updates will follow in the morning... my wife's gonna lock the room door from inside anytime now...:-/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya the t-mobile stuff is just for this!!! If it gets lt out it will not have this!!! And t-zones is not in the rom!
Runs Great, But Phone Ringers Are Corrupted On My End Which Is No Biggy Man. T-Zones Dont Need To Be In There Cuz For Some Reason It No Longer Works Anymore. Might be the reason because T-Mobile Upgraded There New T-Zones For HTC Wing But Im Not Sure Just Know That When you Check Your Account It Wont let you. Another One you Should Add Musicplayer Today For Alittle Bonus And Add The new HTC Taskmanager Like Everyone Is Suggesting. Just So it Could Look Like A Stocked T-mobile Phone. I Love The Splash Screens. Really Fast But There Is A Battery Drain I Noticed But Might Be Because I have to let the battery drain first cuz I flashed. It Is At 50% And I dont have no push email, GPRS, Internet,Wifi, Or Bluetooth Running. I Would Hate To see when I Use Them It would Of Probably Already Been Dead! I Also havent Installed Any Program Either Everything Is Still Stocked. Also Recommend You Put Some Sort Of Battery Task On The Today Screen Like HTC HomePlug So You Can Check your Battery Life. But Pretty Much After That Runs Great Keep up The Good Job. I Will Still Monitor The Battery Situation More!
First view
Hey Funman!
Here it goes to my results...
Top 10 Good points of the Rom
I liked the way you cooked!.
Clean, simple and fast.
It really is and I still didn't have to overclock! Nice!
Got 43.40 of storage and 30.02 of program memory. Ok for me.
Good Customizations like text reduced and folders
Top 10 Bad points of the Rom
Customer feedback and Error reporting could be really removed as it really means nothing.
Phone settings seems to be not working properly. When I tried to change ring tone and clicked OK button, I got nothing. I still kept on that settings tab instead of back to today screen. I tried several times without luck. But I think is just a little thing coz you may get away from that just clicking on today icon and choose today itself.
Noticed duplicated task manager: programs\accessories\settings and in start\settings\system folder.
Apps found useful
Oxios
Windows Live and Search
Adobe Reader LE
Apps no use for
Check notifications.
SMS notifier. I like others like secretary mobile but it can be fine.
Total commander. I prefer Resco Explorer
Registry Editor. I prefer use Resco 2007 built in version
In an overall and as my first impression, I loved it! You did a very custom ROM without a lot of craps and just cooking basic and usefull apps. Good job.
I'll keep going little more now installing my apps. Let you know what happened after that!
Great day Funman!
Regards
funman said:
Java manager (Left out as my Rom is made for the person that like min but useful, and this is not useful!!!)
New Sim manager (Took out as pointless, as with pimbackup on the phone, you dont need to save your contacts tot he SIMcard)
And Smartskey(it is one of the most useful application) I left it ou as it is not need!!! But you do have the button mapping, but i would not use it for boasting the CPU
New office2k7 Thought about this, and i did put itin there, but took it out again as the new one does not give much yet, as 2007 is not so widly used for the lose of rom space!!!
New HTCtask manager 1.5 Well did not know of this update, so i guess i could add it Do you know what is better?
Well I did not add the extended rom for that reason!!! So maybe will have to put the MMS stuff back in to the ROM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK
But Java manager is useful as sim manager, not at the time but may be required in future coz there will be programs that will require java and same for Sim manager. But this is your choice, im just trying to make your rom perfect and complete.
And for new X button go here
im using it and it is very good no bugs.
And office2k7 is also essential coz there are new format (for eg: docx) which will run on new word only.
And yes there are two shortcut of taskmanager(dotfred), one is in programs/accessories/settings and other in settings/system.
Thanks
LiQuiD FrEeZe said:
Runs Great, But Phone Ringers Are Corrupted On My End Which Is No Biggy Man. T-Zones Dont Need To Be In There Cuz For Some Reason It No Longer Works Anymore. Might be the reason because T-Mobile Upgraded There New T-Zones For HTC Wing But Im Not Sure Just Know That When you Check Your Account It Wont let you. Another One you Should Add Musicplayer Today For Alittle Bonus And Add The new HTC Taskmanager Like Everyone Is Suggesting. Just So it Could Look Like A Stocked T-mobile Phone. I Love The Splash Screens. Really Fast But There Is A Battery Drain I Noticed But Might Be Because I have to let the battery drain first cuz I flashed. It Is At 50% And I dont have no push email, GPRS, Internet,Wifi, Or Bluetooth Running. I Would Hate To see when I Use Them It would Of Probably Already Been Dead! I Also havent Installed Any Program Either Everything Is Still Stocked. Also Recommend You Put Some Sort Of Battery Task On The Today Screen Like HTC HomePlug So You Can Check your Battery Life. But Pretty Much After That Runs Great Keep up The Good Job. I Will Still Monitor The Battery Situation More!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where you heck are you seeing t-zones? IT is not in the rom!!! I have this running on my phone right now!!!
-No T-Zones,
-No Ring tones as I said above (just place a ring tone on your card in my documnets)
-Do you have a extended rom installed, as this is your problem with the batt drain!
I think i need to pull the rom and look at a coup-le of things, cus you should not be seeing t-zones for one thing! And i might move the extention to windows folder then you dont have the batt drain problem!
p.s Task manger is there two times out of design!
update: Ok I see why you had the problems with the ring tone!!! Cus you have not put a MP3 in your my documnet folder!!! The OS has put the default ones in but there are not in the rom!!! It must be a reg key or some thing I will look into getting rid! Well i looked at the ringtoens and i think the 3 defaults must be hard coded as i have not been able to find any reg keys that go with them.
epimazzo said:
Hey Funman!
Here it goes to my results...
Top 10 Good points of the Rom
I liked the way you cooked!.
Clean, simple and fast.
It really is and I still didn't have to overclock! Nice!
Got 43.40 of storage and 30.02 of program memory. Ok for me.
Good Customizations like text reduced and folders
Top 10 Bad points of the Rom
Customer feedback and Error reporting could be really removed as it really means nothing.
Phone settings seems to be not working properly. When I tried to change ring tone and clicked OK button, I got nothing. I still kept on that settings tab instead of back to today screen. I tried several times without luck. But I think is just a little thing coz you may get away from that just clicking on today icon and choose today itself.
Noticed duplicated task manager: programs\accessories\settings and in start\settings\system folder.
Apps found useful
Oxios
Windows Live and Search
Adobe Reader LE
Apps no use for
Check notifications.
SMS notifier. I like others like secretary mobile but it can be fine.
Total commander. I prefer Resco Explorer
Registry Editor. I prefer use Resco 2007 built in version
In an overall and as my first impression, I loved it! You did a very custom ROM without a lot of craps and just cooking basic and usefull apps. Good job.
I'll keep going little more now installing my apps. Let you know what happened after that!
Great day Funman!
Regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oxios ? Ok i cant remeber what this is?
Please can you give me screen shots of T-zones then i can see where you are seeing it!
Okay last night i flashed my Wizard.
This weekend we have Whitsunday festival overhere.
So give me sometime to test your rom.
I will post my findings tommorrow.

A Few Noob Questions

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.

What apps make your phone rock? Must-Haves

Hey everybody. First ever post.
When I think my phone hasn't been tweaked enough, I get on the internet and look for the coolest apps that I don't have and, of course, don't need (like all of you do too). But when I get on, I just find myself searching all sorts of dumb keywords and lots of the time I come up with nothing new.
So the purpose of this post is to get a feel for what apps you people are using for your phones.
Doing this might help other people looking to pimp their phone by making them aware of useful apps they might never hear of...Me personally, I love me some freeware, so don't worry, I'll be listing TONS of those! There's some detail for each app, so skim it to get what you need...
So, to kick things off, this is how I've got my gear setup.
My phone is a T-Mobile MDA: aka T-Mobile MDA Vario, Cingular 8125, i-mate K-JAM, QTEK 9100 and Dopod 838
OS: WM5
Mem: 44MB with ~6-8MB left
LAUNCHER: SPB Mobile Shell 2. I tried it, and it's the most robust, smooth, and well thought out launcher I've used. I think I'll be keeping this one. BUT. It's got built in weather that works, nice fluid 3D and flip animations, and built in contact manager & dialer. It has a $30 price tag -- you can find it cheaper -- SO if you can't get your hands on it, well, I do have alternatives.
***Also Try CLaunch (Fantastic: Free) TouchFlo (awesome - Free) and HTC Cube (free)***
MUSIC: I've now settled on Core Player Mobile. It's basically the 1.0+ version of the free TCPMP. This has support for MP3, WMV, WAV, Streams, Built in YouTube finder and player, and supports downloaded .FLV files (<<<XCLENT and hard to find support for that.)
***Also Try TCPMP (FREE: love it, make sure to get the plugin for .FLV support), also, Slide2Play (also free) is a very simple music player, but nice nonetheless.
Internet Radio: Mundu Radio (FREE) supports many streaming radio stations and anything that broadcasts in MP3 format.
***Also Try Pandora (when it comes out for your phone). This will also be free and a must-have***
Bluetooth Audio: If you want to play music from your phone to bluetooth headphones, without having to upgrade to Wm6, search for a A2DP cab. There are tons out there, get one.
Broswer: Lots of people like OperaMini, but it's too big to fit on my phone. BUT, Skyfire looks like it might be the winner of the browser wars soon...Currently I have the beta (0.85), but it is supremely faster than other browsers, supports FULL WEBSITE CONTENT (YES, FLASH -- I've been able to watch full movies on Watch-Movies.net) and it's free. They still have a few things to take care of on the buggy side such as not being able to enter data into Flash forms, but once it's taken care of, it should be near perfect.
Contact Dialer / Management: I've been rockin Photo Contacts Pro for a long time now. It has built in support for HUGE (fullscreen) contact photos that pop up when you receive a call, support for custom MP3 ringtones for each person and nice layouts.
***Also Try Face Contact (An iPhone style scrolling contact manager -- Not Free yet).***
File Explorer: Resco Explorer isn't free but it's great. Finger scrolling and inertia. Pretty cool. Plus has a trash can for you deleted files...Who knew?
***Also Try GS Finder. I highly, highly recommend GSFinder (Free).***
Weather: Weather Watcher Mobile (free) is small but powerful. It updates quickly and lists details about the day's weather, the week's weather, severe weather alerts and RADAR. Plus, you only have to update every couple of days because it stores all the downloaded info on your phone, so you don't have to connect to the net as much as you might with other weather apps. And again, it's free.
Image Viewer: Well, there aren't a lot of viewers out there that are flashy enough because I mean, windows has a photo viewer that works fine. Plain, but fine. But I suggest PocketCM ImageViewer. It has the billboarding, iPhone style, photo scrolling feature. It's way too sensitive right now in its beta stages, but once it's complete, it will be a must-have for the PPC world. (FREE)
System Utilities:
Xtra Buttons: AEBPlus (free) is the only one that I've needed. Turned 5 useful buttons into 15.
Overclocking: omapClock will overclock your PPC to perfection. Stock, my phone is 180mhz, but with omapClock I can safely overclock my phone to 276. Plus, I add a shortcut to the startup folder to start my machine off fast when I soft reset.
Registry Editors: If you're like, well, everybody on this site, you like tweaking your phone to the max. If you wanna get your hands dirty and get into that registry, i recommend Resco Registry Editor. It came with my Resco explorer lol, but it has a clean intuitive interface, great scrolling and quick search features.
***Also Try PHM Registry Editor (free)***
Space Saving & Cleaning: ClearTemp is a godsend. This will remove all of the stored cache and internet crap that is left on your phone and takes up space. Especially for us who test out all kinds of software and install/uninstall frequently, this will give you back whole Megs of storage space. Literally. I love it (Free).
Task Managers:
TaskFacade is cool. It actually shows screenshots of your currently running programs, lets you jump directly to them, and close them all in the blink of an eye. (FREE)
***Also try QuickMenu***
Do-It-Alls: QUickMenu CAN replace the traditional start menu with a more Windows Desktop feel. Instead of one big menu, Clicking the Programs arrow opens up a list of programs, folders show their contents, etc. Also, it is a built in task manager that will actually close your programs instead of letting it sit in the background.
***Also Try Pocket Toolman. Pocket Toolman will give you quick access to everything System -- soft reset, remove programs, blank screen, etc. It's fantastic.
iCrap: MusicID is the WM version of the ShazaM app for the iPhuz. Honestly, I never thought I'd use it but it has come in handy. It's small, and it works. That'll show those iPhags.
Games: Pocket Nester is a badass NES emulator. The best I've used. Plus, you can put all of your games on an SD card and it runs perfectly smooth. hundreds of ROMS. (FREE)
So, this is some of the stuff on my gear that makes it boss. And I know I'm missing some stuff too, and that's where you fine folks come in. So my people, what're you rockin?
There is a list at the top of the page in Q&A (its stikied)
Cool I found it, thanks.
clear temp
i need to get some storage space open, and i DLd clear temp cab, but i'm terrified to install it, as the first posts at ppcfreewaredownload site are people saying when they installed it, it reformatted their entire phone. Any tips? thanks.
does that shazam app just use data ? i ask because i know there is a mumber you can call for 50p a time but if that app only uses data it would come in handy
scottspa74 said:
i need to get some storage space open, and i DLd clear temp cab, but i'm terrified to install it, as the first posts at ppcfreewaredownload site are people saying when they installed it, it reformatted their entire phone. Any tips? thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use Clear Temp a lot, and have installed it via a cab many time's with no issues (WM6.1).
dazzzdelux said:
does that shazam app just use data ? i ask because i know there is a mumber you can call for 50p a time but if that app only uses data it would come in handy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes shazam the app uses interned connection.
Nice post! I liked it.
Has lots of good programs and a good way to teach the new guys what are the (most) best apps around!
Opera Mobile
Finger keyboard
Live messenger
Large HTC Home
Flashlite
reales taskbar
Fingermenu
Hi guys my first post here and have owned ppc for around 5 months so a newbie at it.
Here is what I am running on my phone
Spb mobile shell 3 great program
s2u2, nice locking app, can be buggy sometimes
s2p, nice music player
s2v, good app to change wallpapers
G-Alarm, good alarm clock and finger friendly
G-Watch, finger friendly stopwatch that works with gps
Clear Temp
Currency Converter from the makers of Clear Temp and works great
Audio Notes Touch, A one touch recording finger friendly app, can also record phone calls
Sprite Backup, not free but very good app and a must have
Resco Explorer
PHM Registry Editor
Finger suit
Finger keyboard
File Explorer Extension, free and a good upgrade to the win mo edition
Thumb Cal, great finger friendly calender
jenben said:
Hi guys my first post here and have owned ppc for around 5 months so a newbie at it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi & welcome to the forum! What device do you have loaded & what WM6.x version?
LINKS
O.P. do you have a link library for all of that stuff..I can't locate a working TCMP for WM6.1 to save my life Spirint Touch Pro 2
tried every friggin Cab out there.. about to try an Alpha 4.1 of TCPMP 0.72RC1 GF5500Edition
It wasnt this hard with my HTC Mogul (PPC 6800)
This is really pisssing me off..
I also have a library of AVIs I'd really like to be studying from -- not converting to a format that windows Mobile media player can use--- this it stupid Seriously
Addendum this thing worked now I gota find which Flash video bundle it needs Grrr!!
I got it here I cant post link cause new site thinks im a noob...
------showthread.php?t=494183&highlight=flv
Addendum like I said this Alpha 4.1 ( FROM THIS SITE) is playing my old AVIs adequately but Now I have to locate a Flash Video Bundle appropraite for this build of TCPMP....IT REALLY SHOULDNT BE THIS FREAKING HARD ya know !!!

HD2 book collection database software sought

I got my new HD2 and was delighted, but then tried to get the software that I have been using previously to work on it.
As I travel around and look in second hand book and record shops, I am never totally sure from memory whether i have a particular book or cd. Publishers keep changing the covers and synopses.
On my Psion, it had as standard a lovely card database / rolodex type of program. It was easy to input, easy to search.
When I moved to the hx4700 on windows 2003SE I lost that. Eventually I found Data On The Run which is fully access compatible. So I've converted all of my lists to access, and was happy enough. It wasn't great as it tries to get too much on, and portrait only.
Now on the HD2, the software does not like fingers, only styluses. Scrolling is virtually impossible, as it won't drag to scroll. The pop out scroll bar helper does not show. The developer is one guy and hasn't time to continue developing.
I've looked at stuff like Bookbag plus and someone mentioned "My Collection" but I cannot find it anywhere on the net. There are serious commercial pieces of software that are in effect full database programs, but that is a sledgehammer to crack a walnut.
I know this may only help in the short term, and doesn't solve the software issue.
Have you changed the original theme on the device? If so the Pop out function on the theme is lost in order to return it without going back to the original theme you could try this. please remember to backup
Hope this helps in the short term.
Try this
Try ListPro.. it's a great application..
Neville.Holland said:
I know this may only help in the short term, and doesn't solve the software issue.
Have you changed the original theme on the device? If so the Pop out function on the theme is lost in order to return it without going back to the original theme you could try this. please remember to backup
Hope this helps in the short term.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for hte idea, but Nope, original theme. Pop out scroll is there for other apps.
Klaus1960 said:
Try ListPro.. it's a great application..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THanks. I had seen Collectorz which has templates for this, but had not found listpro. It looks a fairly steep learning curve, and I need to import my existing lists. However, its great advantage is that it is only one program that covers a multitude of lists, so i won;t be paying out twice or three times for basically the same thing.
I've installed and imported my book list, so can now try and get it synchronised. I had to install the cab file separately. I can set up the synchronisation in the Windows MObile Device Centre, but that has to be done through "files" and unless i have missed something that only lets me synchronise to the machine, not the storage card. That is no damn good.

[Q] Android Developers, why are you treating my SD card like a garbage can?

This has been bothering me for quite a while, so I conjured a little story to help sooth my frustration.
Lets say my Android device is the new tenant of a nicely formated loft, this loft being 16gb of square space. To commemorate this new exciting space my device throws a house party. Most of the Apps he invites are pretty well behaved, but some start spilling drinks, then puking on the carpet, then having an orgy, then bukkake-ing the root directory. After discovering such acts, the device politely requests the disruptive guests force quit and leave. "I need more space on my phone." the device replied as each questioned on their way out. To his disbelief, NONE of the Apps cleaned up their mess! Even worse it seems some of the classier Apps, though more organized seem to have been influenced too. Unfortunately the device is forced to live with it, as the police force stopped responding to calls in his neighborhood. One man tries, but it always returns to a mess.
I hope that entertained someone.
i know exactly how you feel... there is at least 7 unused folders just wasting space on my phone. not to mention random mp3's hidden deep within my phone...
PhxkinMassacre said:
i know exactly how you feel... there is at least 7 unused folders just wasting space on my phone. not to mention random mp3's hidden deep within my phone...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope you understand about the unused folders and NOT the bukkake-ing!!
hello, nice story!
I won't say that I am even close to being a developer but I do develop some apps and the thing that I wan't to point out is that apps do not run when they are installed or uninstalled. It's not each application job to clear up the mess it may have created but package manager's which apparently leaves some files be just in case you would like to reinstall the app later(?)...
I would propose to look for a more efficient package manager or doorman/janitor for your loft
That's why I don't invite the guy whos only existence is to make farting noises!
Very good point. However, one thing I don't know is if uninstalling through the market cleans up the SD card better than using a third party mass uninstall app. Something you may want to experiment with.
Back at it again...
Here I am again, and I still don't flippin get it!
After reading some of your comments I realized my main point kind of got glazed over(no pun intended @Scudderb)
My big issue is that there's no hierarchy in place for this crap. In windows, program files are stored in the 'Program Files' directory. In Android (and I credit google and the developers for this sloppy BS) Apps are just throwing all their **** in with my stuff on the ROOT.
How is this acceptable. Seriously, HOW? And if its all cache files and/or temporary documents than WHY THE **** ISN'T ALL THIS CRAP BEING PUT INTO A TEMP/CACHE FOLDER.
I'm PISSED! Why does every app I install get to put their own folder on the ROOT WITH the FOLDERS and FILES that actually matter to me ex: like my music, pictures, movies, documents (OH and by the way, a lot of apps developers do a REALLY ****ty job with their NAMING CONVENTIONS so the folders being created may or may not even look related to the app that put it there!)
::end rant::
My apologies for the colorful language, folder structure and hierarchy are something I design as a web designer so when I see this crap going on in my phone like the inmates are running the asylum... I get angry.
Today I was cleaning up my SD card for the umteen'th time, and found that Foursquare was dumping its temp files directly onto the root of my directory. I blew my top and had to get it out of my system... so..
A MESSAGE TO ALL THE APPS PULLING THESE SHENANIGANS: GROW UP!
The problem here is that it's hard to do it right
For custom data, files are supposed to be saved into "/data/data/com.appname/blah" (that's from the top of my head, could differ slightly). That's the directory to use for data files, but there's one big issue with it: it's on the internal memory storage. We all know that internal memory on Android (without custom ROMs) is.. limited. That's probably why most devs are using SD for larger files.
There's also the "Android/data/com.package_name.blah/blah" directory on the SD card. This directory should be used by apps to store files into and is automatically deleted when the user removes the associated app (but only when you're running Froyo or greater).
The issue with this approach is that users (and developers too, when testing the app) will lose all their data when removing an old version of a specific app. Let's say there's a bug with the Market again and the app suddenly gets uninstalled. User will have to reinstall, result: data will be all gone. That's only one of the many doom scenarios.
I can't speak for other developers, but that's more or less the reason why I started to use a common directory outside of the preferred ones when I was doing apps. It's not a great situation, I fully agree. But would you rather have your data accidentally deleted?
If anyone knows a good way to get around this issue, I'd love to know more about it...
orly
Thanks for the reply @Stripeymilk
I can think of multiple solutions:
#1 Development community adopts a universal directory for files deemed 'User' or 'Save' data that should be stored for future use. (or Google creates this for developers)
#2 Development community adopts the practice of allowing users to pick the directory users want to store an apps data in. (prompt at app's first start)
#3 Store files/data in the cloud.
#4 Users dump trash in the lobbys/living-rooms of developer's and see how quickly they find a solution.
#5 USE THE "Android/data/com.package_name.blah/" FOLDER WHEN ALL YOU'RE REALLY DOING IS STORING CACHE/TEMP FILES!!!
BOTTOM LINE: Its not hard to do it right, Its just hard to get people to do it.
You make it sound so easy
1) I'm all for it, but Google needs to put its weight behind an approach like that because otherwise people will say "I like /Data better than /data or /Mydata or /MyData". It's a bit like coding conventions: everyone wants to be different.
2) Good for techy people, not so good for "normal" users. Could make it easier with a small "file manager", but that's too much work for indie devs. Could be a nice idea for a new open source project though.
3) Great idea, could actually work if the associated account would be created automatically (like in Cut the Rope for Android with Scoreloop), but:
- The backup functionality in Android for storing data in the cloud is available for API level 8 and greater, making it of not so much use when you're targeting API level 5 or 6 and greater. Could be fixed by using something like Google Storage combined with Jets3t instead, but that would be useless for apps written in C++, like many games are.
- Cloud storage isn't free. Developers can't pay for that as it would be too expensive. If every Android user would've gotten free cloud storage from Google it could be a nice alternative, but (yeah, there's always a but) most current users don't have that.
4) If you're prepared to send your trash by plane to another country, go for it!
5) Agreed. Useful for temp data.
I'm not trying to make it sound easy, believe me I know how it isn't. I'm trying to make it sound simple, because really.. it is...
In response:
1) I agree and this is exactly what I mean by the real hard part is getting people to do it. This requires widespread endorsement by developers big and small - that this is a 'best practice' that should be adhered to. I think the gate swings both ways though.
example: Twitter didn't invent hash tags, their users did, and with its widespread adoption, Twitter adopted/implemented it too.
2) Another good point, though this process can be curated to drive the user in the right direction (holding their hand). The XBOX 360 does this for every game you play, the first thing it does is ask you which storage device you want to use for game saves.
example: in combination with solution # 1, the default folder the app saves to could be '/data/theAppsName' and the prompt could say "This app saves files to your SD CARD in '/data/theAppName'. Would you like to choose a new location?" [Yes] [No] [?]. The [Yes] option brings up a simple file manager, the [No] option uses that location, the [?] option brings up an easy to understand write up on what its asking and why its asking it.
3) We'll get there eventually, my point really was if you've got the resources, why not. Its a solution better than #1 and #2
4) I plan on sending human clones to create trash individually and exponentially
5) AMIRITE~!
In all seriousness though, thank you @Stripeymilk for taking the time to go in depth and have a conversation about this. I seriously think it doesn't take an act of Godogle to solve this (to what I beleive) is a big issue!
I can't agree more with you.
As developer (Windows, iSeries) I try to make my programs as structured and readable as possible. The same goes for the files and folders used used by the programs, but sadly, even with all the available resources, some people (colleagues) make a complete mess of it, cause "that's not/less important", as long as the program does what it's intended to do ...
It's all about the resources and people using them the right way!
Cool, didn't know about the hash tags on Twitter
Well, we're on a great site here with developers on it. If everyone here would adhere to the same standard, it could at least be a nice push to make the Android SD card world a better place.
What's the directory we're going to settle on? Any pros and cons?

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