So in looking around I have not found any answer to my question. Why is everything to flash on the shield a .img instead of building zip files you can flash directly from recovery? I have been messing with android for quite a long time and know how to flash .img, fastboot, adb, ect. But dl'd and flashing a zip is far easier.
Any answers?
thanks.
*I think* that base factory images (.img files.) are meant to be flashed via fastboot, since they have a direct relationship with device specific partitions. Imagine a bit to bit flash, like a Ghost/Acronis image?!?
As for .zip files, they are installed via recoveries (CWM, TWRP, etc), because you just want to add/replace files in the / partition.
And with our Shield, until now, all OTAs are full system images, not updates.
I hope that I've explained this properly, if not please someone correct me
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fastboot#Fastboot
anthonws said:
*I think* that base factory images (.img files.) are meant to be flashed via fastboot, since they have a direct relationship with device specific partitions. Imagine a bit to bit flash, like a Ghost/Acronis image?!?
As for .zip files, they are installed via recoveries (CWM, TWRP, etc), because you just want to add/replace files in the / partition.
And with our Shield, until now, all OTAs are full system images, not updates.
I hope that I've explained this properly, if not please someone correct me
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fastboot#Fastboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not all ota are full system images, ota 65 and 67 are simple delta updates.
BTW, the main reason of .img files for images is because this can't depend on the recovery. How do you flash a recovery .zip file without a recovery?
You need to have a .img file that can be flashed via fastboot, it is VERY much "bricked" proff that a flashable zip
Thanks for the explanations. I realize some things need to be done via fastboot like unlocking or flashing a recovery for the first time.
I guess I have become spoiled by xda and the simplicity of modification that is available today. Far cry from hacking htcs back in the day.
thx -jason
Both answers are correct - it all depends on which software (on the device) is used to flash, and what format it accepts.
With Tegra devices you have at least 3 ways to flash stuff, from lowest to highest level:
- nvflash/tegrarcm mode. This is a very small firmware that is burnt in ROM and is thus always available no matter how hard you screw your device. It can run small programs (typically, a flasher) that are sent through USB. Problem is, for Tegra4 it will only accept signed binaries, which makes it useless for modders.
- bootloader/fastboot. The bootloader supports the fastboot protocol, which can flash .img files. The bootloader is written in flash memory so your bootloader partition must be in good shape.
- recovery/zip files. The recovery is a Linux image, so this means it is a full-blown system of its own right. Because of this it can support more format, including .zip archives with a script to describe how the archive should be installed.
So in the boot chain, you have 3 anchors from which you can flash images: boot rom (always available but unusable to us) -> bootloader -> recovery. The fact the boot rom cannot be used without a signed image (which is not available publicly) means that screwing your bootloader is sufficient to permanently brick your device.
Recovery images are more convenient since they are in .zip format and can for some be device-independent (e.g. superSU recovery images are flashed the same on every single device out there), contrary to the bootloader which can be different for every device. But they require a working recovery, which is not always granted - so for actual recovery, fastboot images are also useful.
That's why I love XDA
You're never alone!
Thanks for the additional info to all
Anthonws
Hello all,
I really need, for a commercial project, to flash a great number (>100) of Galaxy Camera 2 (EK-GC200() device, all with the same firmware, rooted and modified as I need.
I have to flash boot.img (modified by me) and system.img (rooted).
I have now to root the camera, then start the system, enable developer options, enable adb debug and at the end flash a new boot.img, and the system.img itself (adb shell, dd ...).
This is time consuming, and error prone.
I'm sure the boot.img & system.img are correct, cause I can flash them without error (and they work fine) with dd from the internal emulated sdcard.
I can see two viable alternatives:
1. A custom recovery, from where I could make a nandroid backup, which I can use later on to update all the rest of the cameras.
But:
I tried to port the EK-GC100 cwm recovery, I've been able to boot it up, but the touchscreen is unusable and I got a lot of error coming from the file system.
Please help me! Any suggestion, half project, everything is really appreciated!
2. To create an Odin package, using the .img files I can optain with dd from a ready camera.
But:
I tried all I can do to build a Odin package, but every time I got an error (Odin Fail) when I try to flash system.img.
I tried to build a package containing recovery.img + boot.img, and that works.
I tried to build a package containing only system.img, and it doesn't work, every time I got a Fail from Odin.
I tried manual compression (tar + md5sum on Linux), and automated scripts you can find on XDA, both under Linux and Windows.
Why is system.img impossible to flash?
What am I missing?
Thank you in advance.
Ciao,
Giovanni
Hi all.
I'm not able to create an image file for LiveSuit to flash an A10 Allwinner based tablet.
have been following tons of tutorials but Linux to me is something too hard
http://www.allmost.org/2012/11/how-to-allwinner-image-building-or.html
I already have dumped the firmware images with Uberizer software but I need to create this IMG file for LiveSuit, ,PhoenixSuit or PhoenixCard programs
it's very simple to flash Rockchip based tablets with RK Android Tool but this process doesn't work on Allwinner based tablets unfortunately.
the question is: could someone here make a LiveSuit image for me ?
I just have to upload the dumped files: boot, bootloader, data, recovery, system...
thanks :good:
Please don't create duplicate threads,
http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/help/linux-experts-convert-dump-to-img-t3435329
Thanks! And thread closed.
Lenovo Tab 3 8/TB3-850F -
Android 6.0 Stock Firmware Images
DISCLAIMER: As always, flashing your device - with either stock or custom firmware - involves an inherent risk of bricking or otherwise rendering your device inoperable. I am not responsible for any good or bad resulting from your use of these firmware images or this thread.
DEVICE SPECIFICATIONS:
Model: Lenovo Tab 3 8"(TB3-850F)
Android Version: 6.0 Marshmallow
Kernel Version: 3.18.19
Board Platform: MediaTek MT6735m (1.0 GHz)
Build No: TB3-850F_S100031_171010_ROW
Software Version: TB3-850F_160412
SDK Version: 23
Build ID: MRA58K
Android Security Patch Level: 9/05/2017
Build Date: 10/10/2017
NOTE:
First & foremost, these partition images will not restore your device completely back to factory/stock condition. They will restore your Android OS, boot logo, boot image & recovery to stock condition. Other vital partitions of your device, such as /lk (the primary bootloader) are not restored by flashing these images. To revert to an unmodified factory state, you will need to visit @r&xp's thread mentioned below and flash your device with stock firmware using the SP Flash Tool, which will also re-lock your bootloader.
This firmware thread is not intended as a tutorial or guide for flashing or restoring your Lenovo Tab 3 back to stock condition. Rather, this is intended as a resource for stock images, device drivers, etc. However, some rudimentary instructions are provided, which will enable you to install these images and restore your device back to mostly stock condition. NOTE: IF YOUR DEVICE IS BRICKED (UNABLE TO BOOT INTO EITHER RECOVERY OR FASTBOOT MODE), THESE FIRMWARE IMAGES WILL BE OF NO BENEFIT. INSTEAD, PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING THREAD BY XDA MEMBER @r&xp , WHICH WILL GIVE YOU THE NECESSARY FILES AND PRECISE INSTRUCTIONS FOR UNBRICKING & RESTORING YOUR DEVICE. https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/help/lenovo-tab-3-8-tb3-850f-unbrick-root-t3598727
There are any number of available procedures to flash these stock partition images to your device. The simplest option is to use a custom recovery like TWRP to flash them. Store these images to your external micro SD (or internal storage if you do not intend to wipe internal storage or format /userdata). In TWRP's main menu, select "WIPE", "ADVANCED WIPE", and select Dalvik Cache, Cache, System, & Data. (For a clean install, it is recommended to format Data as well, by selecting "WIPE", then "Format Data.") Reboot Recovery (often necessary for proper mounting of the data partition). Now, select "INSTALL", then select "INSTALL IMAGE" in the bottom right of the menu, navigate to the storage location of the firmware images, and flash them in any order you choose. If you do not have TWRP installed on your device, XDA Senior Member @Hemphiz has a simple & comprehensive thread here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/guide-lenovo-tab3-8-tb3-850f-t3559786/page1. In any event, whichever option you choose, please do your homework and research the threads here on XDA relating to your choice. These images may also be installed via fastboot mode. You will need to install Minimal ADB & Fastboot (v1.4 or later) on your PC, ensure the proper Lenovo device drivers & ADB drivers are installed on your PC, and connect your device to your PC via the stock (or quality equivalent) micro USB to USB data sync cable. Once in fastboot mode, open a command prompt in the adb/fastboot directory, and execute the following command lines:
fastboot devices (if you are properly synced, your device serial # will be shown)
fastboot oem fb_mode_set
fastboot flash logo logo.img
fastboot flash boot boot.img
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img (this will overwrite any custom recovery)
fastboot flash system system.img (fastboot will automatically sparsechunk this image)
fastboot erase userdata
fastboot erase cache
fastboot oem fb_mode_clear
fastboot reboot
STOCK PARTITION IMAGES:
The link below provides the following stock firmware images:
/system.........................Size 3.0 GB
/boot..............................Size 16 MB
/recovery........................Size 16 MB
/logo...............................Size 8 MB
Also included in the link are some helpful files like Minimal ADB & Fastboot v1.4.3, the official Lenovo USB Drivers for the TB3-850F (v1.1.21), a general partition index of the tablet, the ADB driver installer for Windows, and the latest PC version of LenovoSuite Mobile Assistant v1.4.1.14199.
I have made a full & complete partition dump of this device, including sensitive firmware partitions such as /oemkeystore, /nvdata, /seccfg, /lk, etc. In the event any members have corrupted these partitions, just request and I will upload these as well. (/nvdata contains device identifiers such as MAC Address, ESN, etc. The device from which these images were taken has since been hardware damaged & salvaged for parts. Therefore, I have no issue with sharing these images. However, as a disclaimer, you are fully responsible for the manner in which you use device ID partitions. Modifying a device's identifiers delves into matters of legality and ethical guidelines, all for which you are solely responsible.)
CREDITS:
Thanks to XDA Senior Member @Hemphiz for his hard work & development on this device, and his thread on TWRP & rooting. Also, huge thanks to @r&xp for his lifesaving tutorial on recovering this device from a soft or hard brick. His guide has revived many devices from the Android cemetery. You guys visiting either of these threads mentioned, be sure and hit the "THANKS" button for their hard work.
DOWNLOAD LINK:
TB3-850F_S100031_171010_ROW
Stock Firmware Partition Images: https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=1vRLwQ2mCD3CwYQZKGHyykDvBd2yGHisT
Sent from my Lenovo Tab 3 8/TB3-850F using XDA Forums Pro Edition.
Hi:
I have a Tab3 8 TB3-850F which bough in China. It's a 2G+16G version.
I have successfully install TWRP and root.
I'm wondering can I install this ROM to my TAB3?
Thanks!
tsaibru said:
Hi:
I have a Tab3 8 TB3-850F which bough in China. It's a 2G+16G version.
I have successfully install TWRP and root.
I'm wondering can I install this ROM to my TAB3?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't see why you couldn't. But, to clarify some info, what is your Build No and Software Version? Look under Settings, About Device
Build number:
TB3-850F_S100026_161221_PRC
Software version:
TB3-850F-160425
Thank you very much!
tsaibru said:
Build number:
TB3-850F_S100026_161221_PRC
Software version:
TB3-850F-160425
Thank you very much!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Based on your Build & Software Version info, I can see no compatibility issues with this Stock ROM & your device. You seem to simply have a Chinese variant of the TB3-850F that is not available for retail in the United States.
In any event, use TWRP to backup all partitions of your tablet before proceeding henceforth with flashing this ROM. Also, do not flash the stock recovery from my link...keep your TWRP fully intact & accessible in case anything goes south as a result of the flash. Accordingly, you should be able to fully restore your partition backups via TWRP in the event my Stock ROM doesn't boot up. But, like I said, I can see no adverse consequences to flashing it. Should you decide to give it a go, please update us on this thread as to the results.
Thank you...
The reason why I would like to flash this ROM is to get full Google service which Chinese Rom does not offer.
Even though I have root and install Google service on it. Some of apps I downloaded from play just won't install.
So I dowbloaded this ROM and flash system-002.img, it works.
Now I have all Google service I needed, and all apps I download are able to install.
But after I reset the tab I've build number S100026_160923_ROW, software version TB3-850F_160412.
It will try to download the update to 161209 but after reboot it just go in TWRP not doing anything.
I'm very satisfied with this, and I will keep searching and wait for a way for me to update to S100030_161209_ROW.
I do really appreciate your work to help me solve my problem and save this tab from goes to trash can.
tsaibru said:
The reason why I would like to flash this ROM is to get full Google service which Chinese Rom does not offer.
Even though I have root and install Google service on it. Some of apps I downloaded from play just won't install.
So I dowbloaded this ROM and flash system-002.img, it works.
Now I have all Google service I needed, and all apps I download are able to install.
But after I reset the tab I've build number S100026_160923_ROW, software version TB3-850F_160412.
It will try to download the update to 161209 but after reboot it just go in TWRP not doing anything.
I'm very satisfied with this, and I will keep searching and wait for a way for me to update to S100030_161209_ROW.
I do really appreciate your work to help me solve my problem and save this tab from goes to trash can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Trying a system update will not work with a custom recovery installed. In spft you can select only to flash the stock recovery then you should be able to update it, when you have done the system update just flash TWRP again.
@MotoJunkie01 I did send you a PM the other day, maybe like for you it did not send or was it my noobishness? :laugh:
stonedpsycho said:
Trying a system update will not work with a custom recovery installed. In spft you can select only to flash the stock recovery then you should be able to update it, when you have done the system update just flash TWRP again.
@MotoJunkie01 I did send you a PM the other day, maybe like for you it did not send or was it my noobishness? :laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try sending another PM please. I could have deleted your PM by mistake.
boot. logo and recovery.img worked but system.img did not .the system.img downloads with the explorer or e symbol not a disc like the others do.don't know if that has anything to do with it not working? need the system.img to work pls.
chico2016 said:
boot. logo and recovery.img worked but system.img did not .the system.img downloads with the explorer or e symbol not a disc like the others do.don't know if that has anything to do with it not working? need the system.img to work pls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure. The /system image is an unmodified dump taken from a brand new TB3-850F. It works for me and other members. Be sure you are running version 1.4 or later on minimal adb & fastboot. That could be your issue.
MotoJunkie01 said:
Not sure. The /system image is an unmodified dump taken from a brand new TB3-850F. It works for me and other members. Be sure you are running version 1.4 or later on minimal adb & fastboot. That could be your issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok will try again thank you.
---------- Post added at 01:19 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:15 AM ----------
is it possible to use the platform tool ,like it says for the twrp for the system image?
chico2016 said:
ok will try again thank you.
---------- Post added at 01:19 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:15 AM ----------
is it possible to use the platform tool ,like it says for the twrp for the system image?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure. Minimal ADB & Fastboot is merely a bare essentials utility in contrast to the Android SDK & other platform tools packages. You may also flash the /system image using TWRP.
MotoJunkie01 said:
Sure. Minimal ADB & Fastboot is merely a bare essentials utility in contrast to the Android SDK & other platform tools packages. You may also flash the /system image using TWRP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
target reported max download size of 134217728 bytes.
invalid sparse file format at header magi ? Not enough room.
need help with tb3-850f flashing system.img.
Thanks!!! Saved my soft bricked Tab3 8 850F
chico2016 said:
target reported max download size of 134217728 bytes.
invalid sparse file format at header magi ? Not enough room.
need help with tb3-850f flashing system.img.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you use minimal adb & fastboot v1.4, the /system image will automatically be converted into a series of smaller sparsechunk image files, which will be flashed to your device one at a time until complete.
wow dont know what i am doing wrong.
invalid sparse file format at header Magi
erasing 'system'...
okay[0.032s]
sending sparse 'system' 1/21...(129476kb) okay[14.824s] writing 'system'1/21...
failed(remote: uknown chunck type)
finished. total time: 14.904s
need some help adb fastboot file says 'system.img is to long?
wow dont know what i am doing wrong.
invalid sparse file format at header Magi
erasing 'system'...
okay[0.032s]
sending sparse 'system' 1/21...
failed(remote: uknown chunck type)
finished. total time: 14.904s
need some help adb fastboot file says 'system.img is to long?
chico2016 said:
wow dont know what i am doing wrong.
invalid sparse file format at header Magi
erasing 'system'...
okay[0.032s]
sending sparse 'system' 1/21...
failed(remote: uknown chunck type)
finished. total time: 14.904s
need some help adb fastboot file says 'system.img is to long?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What version of Minimal ADB & Fastboot are you using?
i am using the 1.4 version adb fastboot from the same link i got the images on this very helpful post
boot img -logo.img-recovery.img say flash on ,and the tablet marks ok that they have flashed---but no luck with the system.img even though i have re downloaded twice same thing .do you have a link that would go through a step by step instalation process you could help me with.
chico2016 said:
i am using the 1.4 version adb fastboot from the same link i got the images on this very helpful post
boot img -logo.img-recovery.img say flash on ,and the tablet marks ok that they have flashed---but no luck with the system.img even though i have re downloaded twice same thing .do you have a link that would go through a step by step instalation process you could help me with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have a tutorial posted per se on installation. Here's a thought. Boot your tablet into TWRP (fastboot boot TWRP.img) and flash my system.img via TWRP. In TWRP main menu select INSTALL, then select the .img file option in bottom right hand corner of screen. (You will need to put the system.img on an ext micro SD)
Hi everyone,
I just got a cheap chinese tablet with android 9.0, i tried to root it with the available tools but no success, so i'm thinking of making my own twrp image, therefor this question: is it safe to readback the recovery.img file using spfalsh tool (and since all the scatter files of its chip MT6580 have the same address and length for the recovery.img file), then make my own twrp, flash it, and if it fails, reflash the "original" recovery i extracted? will this work?
fateh.ah said:
Hi everyone,
I just got a cheap chinese tablet with android 9.0, i tried to root it with the available tools but no success, so i'm thinking of making my own twrp image, therefor this question: is it safe to readback the recovery.img file using spfalsh tool (and since all the scatter files of its chip MT6580 have the same address and length for the recovery.img file), then make my own twrp, flash it, and if it fails, reflash the "original" recovery i extracted? will this work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can backup the recovery file using MTK Droid Tools, yes, but you must install a custom recovery that can fit into the recovery partition. You can find the recovery partition size on the scatter file. If you want a bigger custom recovery, you must edit EBR{1,2} and MBR files.
efec said:
You can backup the recovery file using MTK Droid Tools, yes, but you must install a custom recovery that can fit into the recovery partition. You can find the recovery partition size on the scatter file. If you want a bigger custom recovery, you must edit EBR{1,2} and MBR files.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MTK Droid Tools does not work properly with this tablet, it gives me this error
--- ERROR : --- TotalBytesPerChunk Not Found. Set default Page/Spare=2048/64 !!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so, will spflash tool by itself suffice?