Database Info

Stock G-Tablet MOD Thread

This is not knocking our heavy-duty modders and developers, but it seems like in lots of threads folks ask questions and the answer always is to go to the custom ROMs. (Yes, I know they are good and do a lot!)
Could we maintain this, or another thread -- or could the admin set up a section for folks who have stock G-Tablets who want to improve and get the most out of them without ROMs?
I got my tablet 11/25 and when I turned it on, the first thing it did was download two updates. I have not had a lot of the really bad problems some of you earlier adopters had. So I would like to try a stock machine with program improvements before deciding whether to go custom ROM.
That said, I would like to install the Google Market, Contacts, Gmail, Calendar, etc. I am willing to root the tablet if that is needed to get all the software working.
Any suggestions -- references to non-ROM upgrades -- recommendations on how to accomplish the above will be appreciated. And I suggest there probably are a lot of other folks out there who would like to do the same thing. (If I'm right, post and speak up so the people with knowledge will know helping us is worth their time and effort.
Rev
P. S. -- Sorry this got so long. If a different thread is needed to get this done, someone feel free to get it started.

I don't find the stock g-tablet as horrible as many are reporting. It is not the same as an Android phone, and I guess that is what most people object to. I have installed the ViewSonic 1.01 update.
Here is what I have done:
1) Root it using Z4root. You can find it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=833953
2) Installed Android Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
EDIT: This version of Market does not work on the firmware update version 4349. For that use the package that Roebeet has supplied to us:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=12939008&postcount=40
It is installed as an update package, where you first unpack it, then place it into the /sdcard folder. Reboot holding both the Power and Volume+ button. Then select "Apply Internal update.zip", using the volume rocker to select, and the power button to enter the selection.
3) Do the Market fix to get access to all apps:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845175
4) Also install the AndRootFile app, available here:
http://www.getjar.com/mobile/39778/androotfile/
5) Install LauncherPro or ADW.Launcher
EDIT: This is no longer needed, as there is now a "Classic" home screen in the firmware update. But it can still be done if you want to try it.
6) Install Flash:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9172522&postcount=2058
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842040
7) Install OpenGL fix, so then you can install Angry Birds from Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=846463
This is no longer needed. The OpenGL update is included in the firmware update.
I think that is about it. If I think of something else, I'll add it.

wasserkapf said:
I don't find the stock g-tablet as horrible as many are reporting. It is not the same as an Android phone, and I guess that is what most people object to. I have installed the ViewSonic 1.01 update.
Here is what I have done:
1) Root it using Z4root. You can find it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=833953
2) Installed Android Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
3) Do the Market fix to get access to all apps:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845175
4) Also install the AndRootFile app, available here:
http://www.getjar.com/mobile/39778/androotfile/
5) Install LauncherPro or ADW.Launcher
6) Install Flash:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9172522&postcount=2058
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842040
7) Install OpenGL fix, so then you can install Angry Birds from Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=846463
I think that is about it. If I think of something else, I'll add it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not giving you a hard time but for someone who doesn't mind the stock interface everything you have done is pretty much the same as just installing TnTLite...

It may be true that "Waterhead" had done most of the same things some of the ROM mods do ---- BUT, he didn't have to flash anything like TNT or cwm, etc.
For those who don't want to flash, what he has provided here is a less risky path to decent performance.
Or for those who are less experienced and want to start out "lite" on their modding experience, this gives them a chance with less opportunity for making a fatal mistake.
I think there probably are a lot of folks who will own G-Tablets who will fall into this category.
And with a route to learn modding and work their way up to really serious modding, I think we will have done them a big favor.
Thanks for the posts. I think we have started a good thing in this thread. And thanks to you more experienced folks who are willing to help get those folks started.
And......it just could be that if we provide an opportunity for the unexperienced folks to make their tablet right -- more people will buy them. IMHO.
Rev

Sprdtyf350 said:
Not giving you a hard time but for someone who doesn't mind the stock interface everything you have done is pretty much the same as just installing TnTLite...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I did is no different than what a person does to a PC. You install the needed programs and drivers. And maybe customize your desktop.
As a long-time Linux user, I am fully capable of installing from scratch. I just see no need to do that with the g-tablet. I actually like the weather app as a homepage.

So you have the TnT UI (Stock 3 Homescreen UI) and Launcherpro/ADW? If people are going to go this route, then I would suggest installing home switch app from the market.

xmr405o,
Two things:
(1) My model with updates has a three-screen "Home" already -- one with weather/clock/news, one with "To-Do" lists, and a third I use so little I have forgotten what is on it.
(2) I have installed Launcher Pro and when I choose a task that will require launching, my firmware gives me a choice of the regular "Home" or LP to do that job.
What would the app you are recommending do beyond this??? More info??!!
Rev

Seriously, what is so intimidating about installing a rom? You cannot brick these things, it's impossible to do.

Thanks for this thread.
My wife picked one of these up at Office Depot the other day. She knows I have been waiting on Adam and thought I might like this instead. I have yet to open the G Tablet until seeing what the supposed Dec 19th update brings. I am new to android and hesitant to start at the deep end of the pool with modding a $399 toy on day one.
From all the reviews it sounds like a solid piece of hardware and that most issues are with TnT and the lack of Google support for tablets. Do you think this device will get Gingerbread and full support from Google eventually?
My only other concern is the LCD, which is turning out to be hard to judge without having seen the demo unit.
Ideally I just want a clean Android 2.2 experience with the ability to install and use the typical apps (gmail, flash, twitter, facebook, angry birds, etc). If this thing can be made into a solid purchase maybe I would just skip Adam and wait for a next gen tablet like Eve which should be on Tegra3/honeycomb.

rayden25 said:
Seriously, what is so intimidating about installing a rom? You cannot brick these things, it's impossible to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this is true, that's awesome!

This quote from an earlier post answer the question asked as well as I ever could:
"I am new to android and hesitant to start at the deep end of the pool with
modding a $399 toy on day one."
I've already said I have no problem with the people who want to go the ROM flashing direction.
But there are people who would like to be more conservative while they learn something new.
Would it be such as bad thing to just help them?
Rev
P. S. -- And, personally, the first computer I ever built I soldered and put evey part together. I have been doing hardware and programming since 1979. But still, I am new to Android....and the documentation is lacking...and somethings are not explained well in the threads....so like the person I quoted I would like to move a little slower and not take chances until I am ready. And eventually I may get a second G-Tablet I can afford to mess up. But right now I want improve my tablet without the risk. IMHO.

jfholijr said:
If this is true, that's awesome!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing is impossible.. We just haven't found the person to do it yet
It is pretty forgiving though. And I have been able to get going again every time I have gotten into a crazy spot.

butchconner said:
This quote from an earlier post answer the question asked as well as I ever could:
"I am new to android and hesitant to start at the deep end of the pool with
modding a $399 toy on day one."
I've already said I have no problem with the people who want to go the ROM flashing direction.
But there are people who would like to be more conservative while they learn something new.
Would it be such as bad thing to just help them?
Rev
P. S. -- And, personally, the first computer I ever built I soldered and put evey part together. I have been doing hardware and programming since 1979. But still, I am new to Android....and the documentation is lacking...and somethings are not explained well in the threads....so like the person I quoted I would like to move a little slower and not take chances until I am ready. And eventually I may get a second G-Tablet I can afford to mess up. But right now I want improve my tablet without the risk. IMHO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said in my earlier post... I am not trying to give anyone a hard time and understand people wanting to keep them stock. You should be able to and have a useful tablet. When they first came out it wasn't so easy, and still isn't. Programs would not install because of memory mapped wrong, wifi disappeared after waking from sleep, time would reset every boot. The latest Viewsonic update has fixed some of those things, but not all. I flashed mine because I knew I was driving a Z06 Corvette with a Vega motor in it that had power windows that didn't work. I wanted the capability I knew was under the hood and the only way to get it was to flash a new rom. Or wait, and hope that Viewsonic eventually did it in an update.
I picked up my tablet back when they first came out. Seems like a long time ago but was really only a month. I read read all the pages in the original huge thread that existed before the G Tablet received a home of its own here. I would read what people were doing, read what they were breaking, and then when I felt comfortable enough that success was a possibility I would give it a shot. I have worked with computers myself since the early 80's and am comfortable building, installing, breaking, etc. Android is definitely different, but mostly to have fun with your tablet you don't have to know much more than how to flash a rom. Back before there was a recovery path things were pretty spooky and I did a lot of reading and waiting to see what worked. Things have progressed now to where if you can unzip a rom package to your internal SD card so you end up with an update.zip file, and a recovery folder all that is left is to hold the volume up button while pressing the power button and about 2 minutes later you are all done. And your Z06 will actually have power windows, and the right engine..
The specs on this tablet are probably the best out there right now. The software chosen just doesn't properly utilize most of it. Maybe the December 19 update being talked about will make it right out of the box. I hope so...
And no matter which path you take, stock, or modded... If trouble comes the answers so far have all been here in the forums...

xmr405o said:
So you have the TnT UI (Stock 3 Homescreen UI) and Launcherpro/ADW? If people are going to go this route, then I would suggest installing home switch app from the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I only installed LauncherPro. When I want to bring up the original TapnTap UI, I use the icon in the app list.
If you install both LauncherPro and ADW, then the home switcher app would be a good idea.

rayden25 said:
Seriously, what is so intimidating about installing a rom? You cannot brick these things, it's impossible to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a ZT-180, and have flashed it several times. You had to mess with it just to get it to a useful state. But eventually you want to stop re-installing things and just use it. The stock g-tablet is wonderful compared to the stock ZT-180.
I guess that I come to this with a different perspective.

Great post! I've done exactly what you've done and am pleased with the result.
Thanks

z4padroot
trying to root g tablet with z4padroot.1.3.0.apk, answer: could not parse.
please advise.

I don't know about the program you used, but I used z4root as mentioned in the second or third post in this thread. It installed flawlessly and all I had to do to root was click one icon! Good luck!
Rev

wasserkapf said:
I don't find the stock g-tablet as horrible as many are reporting. It is not the same as an Android phone, and I guess that is what most people object to. I have installed the ViewSonic 1.01 update.
Here is what I have done:
1) Root it using Z4root. You can find it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=833953
2) Installed Android Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
3) Do the Market fix to get access to all apps:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845175
4) Also install the AndRootFile app, available here:
http://www.getjar.com/mobile/39778/androotfile/
5) Install LauncherPro or ADW.Launcher
6) Install Flash:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9172522&postcount=2058
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842040
7) Install OpenGL fix, so then you can install Angry Birds from Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=846463
I think that is about it. If I think of something else, I'll add it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you very much, have you tried vimeo?

jae-v said:
thank you very much, have you tried vimeo?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is vimeo?

[Q] CynogenMod 7 issues on the GTablet

I apologize if this is the wrong area for these questions. I'm having a few issues with my installation of CM7. I've tried looking in several places, but nothing seems to address my problems.
First thing I noticed upon installation was that I was never asked to set up my touchscreen or input my google information. I tried doing this manually by adding an exchange account, but that would not work. I next tried looking for my apps to see if they installed automatically this time around or not and none of my previous apps show, nor does market exist anywhere. Without any instance of market to be found I can't use any of the market fixes. However, without an inputted google id I don't think that would have mattered.
Can anyone guide me to where I can find help for these issues or post any possible solutions?

http://goo-inside.me/gapps/gapps-gb-tegra-20110118-signed.zip
Google apps - Flash right after you flash CM7. You might have to bypass the setup, but should be able to open the market and input google login. It won't auto download, but you'll have some market access.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=919958
Read the dev thread for other issue and such, don't have the time to dig through and help further.

chaelamity said:
I apologize if this is the wrong area for these questions. I'm having a few issues with my installation of CM7. I've tried looking in several places, but nothing seems to address my problems.
First thing I noticed upon installation was that I was never asked to set up my touchscreen or input my google information. I tried doing this manually by adding an exchange account, but that would not work. I next tried looking for my apps to see if they installed automatically this time around or not and none of my previous apps show, nor does market exist anywhere. Without any instance of market to be found I can't use any of the market fixes. However, without an inputted google id I don't think that would have mattered.
Can anyone guide me to where I can find help for these issues or post any possible solutions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As the previous poster said, install Gapps. That will give you the setup screen the first time you reboot the GTab. As a word of warning, I wasn't able to bypass the first screen (touch the droid) on the main version posted in the development thread (the Beta05), even with the click around the screen. I was able to get past it right away on the "offical" build in post 18 of that thread, however (Beta01).
Let us know if that doesn't fix your problem.

Thanx alot guys. I was finally able to get market going by installing gaps and using the CyanogenMod 7 bet01. I ran into the seup screen issue with the Beta05 just like you warned. I didn't do the full market fix as everything I wanted was readily available. I'm not even sure if the full market is absent or not.
I am noticing that after you mount the USB connection you can't unmount. Also, my internal storage isn't recognized. I think there were fixes for some of this in Beta5. Is there a way to update to Beta 5 without having my previous problems or some other fix for the USB and storeage issues to anyone's knowledge?

flash to vegan5 and you will be way happier.
I tried CM7 and it had so many issues.
Once you flash vegan5 you will actually enjoy your tab

You can try flashing beta5 over beta1 and clear cache/dalvik. I'm not sure if that will work, but would be my best suggestion.
On the other hand, I actually agree with the previous poster saying that vegan is probably the better option at the moment. It seems much more stable and feature complete, even if it is froyo instead of gingerbread.
Either way, make a nandroid backup so you can go back if things go sideways.

I didn't get to post this before the responses. I did actually go ahead and flash over Beta01 with Beta05. I just didn't wipe the data or cache. Everything came back just fine. This fixed the storage and usb issues in Beta01. However, you have the previous audio issue from older builds where you have to plug in headphones and unplug them to get the audio back. I've tried VEGAn 5.1 and it works awesomely. I'm merely choosing aesthetics above overall functionality.
My tab has been delegated to fancy entertainment device (comics, casual browsing, games and video). It does all I need for now. I figure since VEGAn and CM7 are joining forces, why not do the switch early and test it out. I love where they're going with this ROM. I can't wait to get my grubby paws on a finished product.
Again, thanks big time for all the assistance. I generally skulk and read through the threads, but I love this place and all that everyone provides for the lesser technophiles like myself.

I thought maybe I could post my own problems to this thread?
So I'm on cynogen 6.1.1 on htc evo 2.2.1 kernal [email protected] #1
Anyway... I've tried 3 times to install the update to 6.1.2 today and each time it's gotten stuck around 58%. Any links to places I'm sure are there and I just couldn't find?
Also, for some reason, for the first time since I got my evo, I'm getting TONS of errors when attempting to send sms. theres a pink like traingle with a ! in the middle. Any suggestions?
How do I fix the bug with the camera?
You can email me if you like, at [email protected].
I am sort of inbetween a newb and whatever the next level would be, lol. This past week I was able to root, and install a custom mod, AND install an update to that customed mod (which is the one i'm on now) all w/o ever posting any questions to any forums. Hopefully that'll get me some brownie points?
Please PLEASE please!! I will even paypal $10 once I get this resolved.
On bended knee I beg (im not really this dramatic in real life )
Strlite85

strlite85 said:
I thought maybe I could post my own problems to this thread?
So I'm on cynogen 6.1.1 on htc evo 2.2.1 kernal [email protected] #1
Anyway... I've tried 3 times to install the update to 6.1.2 today and each time it's gotten stuck around 58%. Any links to places I'm sure are there and I just couldn't find?
Also, for some reason, for the first time since I got my evo, I'm getting TONS of errors when attempting to send sms. theres a pink like traingle with a ! in the middle. Any suggestions?
How do I fix the bug with the camera?
You can email me if you like, at [email protected].
I am sort of inbetween a newb and whatever the next level would be, lol. This past week I was able to root, and install a custom mod, AND install an update to that customed mod (which is the one i'm on now) all w/o ever posting any questions to any forums. Hopefully that'll get me some brownie points?
Please PLEASE please!! I will even paypal $10 once I get this resolved.
On bended knee I beg (im not really this dramatic in real life )
Strlite85
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My suggestion would be to ask somewhere more appropriate. This thread is for a different version of CM, on a different device all together.
Try checking out
Evo dev
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=653
Evo general
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=620
CM
http://forum.cyanogenmod.com/forum/47-htc-evo-stable-mod/

lockedup
after I flashed Cm7 I get stuck on boot screen with the word android on the screen any body have a fix?

dexter230 said:
after I flashed Cm7 I get stuck on boot screen with the word android on the screen any body have a fix?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This usually means the installation was corrupted in some manner.
And it's usually because of a corrupt zip one would flash with.
You can reflash cm7 with another fresh downloaded file if you still have access to recovery mode.
Which I think you should be able becase the boot up process makes it up to the "Android" Bootscreen before it starts bootlooping.
From Advanced Recovery mode you can mount the USB option for the SDCard then transfer the fresh DL to your SCDard that way.
Also make sure you are using bekit's version .8 of CWM while in recovery mode.
Grab CWM v.8 from here
Other versions of CWM don't work well with the GTAB.

[Q] What are the risks of using a custom ROM?

I have just bought the gTablet and am salivating at the new features the custom ROMS offer (market, no tap n crap etc)
But what are the risks?
Is there a recovery path to restore the stock rom if things don't work?
Thanks
Drew

mmsood99 said:
Is there a recovery path to restore the stock rom if things don't work?
Thanks
Drew
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe this is it:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842000

The risks are:
1. You will not return it back to the store
2. You will not sell it
3. You will not toss it out the window
4. You will not get as much sleep, because you will be too busy modding it
5. You will have to apologize to your better half for less time spent with them
6. You will enjoy it more
etc... You get the drift....

I've decided to just go with the latest factory update (3588) and the generic enhancement pack. After loading Launcher Pro and assigning it as my home (and fixing the market and loading a bunch more apps), the tablet is fast, stable, and I'd never know that TapNTap was even on the thing. Now when Viewsonic sends an OTA Honeycomb update (Ha!) I will be able to download it.

scrinch said:
I've decided to just go with the latest factory update (3588) and the generic enhancement pack. After loading Launcher Pro and assigning it as my home (and fixing the market and loading a bunch more apps), the tablet is fast, stable, and I'd never know that TapNTap was even on the thing. Now when Viewsonic sends an OTA Honeycomb update (Ha!) I will be able to download it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you explain how you fixed the market?
Thanks
Drew

scrinch said:
I've decided to just go with the latest factory update (3588) and the generic enhancement pack. After loading Launcher Pro and assigning it as my home (and fixing the market and loading a bunch more apps), the tablet is fast, stable, and I'd never know that TapNTap was even on the thing. Now when Viewsonic sends an OTA Honeycomb update (Ha!) I will be able to download it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I had the enhancement pack installed I couldn't get OTA updates.
After the latest update I switched from the enhancement pack to the tnt lite rom.
Since the rom had the update and more already.

mmsood99 said:
Can you explain how you fixed the market?
Thanks
Drew
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=865245
You try this?

mmsood99 said:
I have just bought the gTablet and am salivating at the new features the custom ROMS offer (market, no tap n crap etc)
But what are the risks?
Is there a recovery path to restore the stock rom if things don't work?
Thanks
Drew
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you go through any number of threads, you'll see probably the most troublesome issues are looping reboots, magic number errors and semi-bricking, I say semi because people have reported that the Gtablet is unbrickable with some work.
Personally, I also wanted to stay official but I recently moved to TnT lite 4.2.x out of wanting the updated market and not wanting to deal with multiple flashes and I've been very, very happy. So far the supplemental updates have been flawless.
There's a recovery path and I guess it generally works, but oy veh - it's a chore when you have the Tablet set up perfectly and then have it go down for any reason. With any 're-do' or switch from one ROM to another, you have to wipe your programs and settings. Some people do it without wiping, but in general that's a bad idea. So really, along with the few very pesky risks, the only other issue with venturing into ROMs is having to wipe and setup again if one gives unresolvable issues. If the typical path doesn't work, that's when you'll have to venture into APX mode and NVflash territory - that's where I dread and the reason I didn't want to get into alternative ROMs myself.
It takes a bit to put your trust into a ROM (and more so, it's author/s). So far, I have no issues at all with TnT Lite 4.2. I just went to 4.2.4. I don't ever update right away....just like I do with official updates, I let a day or 2 pass so any issues can come into the light.
At this point, I'm going to be waiting for a Honeycomb ROM, whether official or otherwise. TnT Lite 4.2.4 is perfecto so far for what I want my tablet to be/do currently, so I highly recommend it.
I'd start with TnT lite first (since I can say I have never had a problem with installing it or with it installed), if you don't like it then try the others, that is of course only if you get that undeniable urge to move forward (and you likely will).
Good Luck!

I would have to say, after flashing my gtablet at least 30 times - to try out new roms as well as make some tutorial videos, that there are so many advantages to doing so. Even nvflash and apx drivers to restore to stock is not that difficult if you are willing to take the time to get the neccessary files and read through the instructions a few times. Although I have gotten a few reboot loops (mostly through things I did wrong in my attempt to try new things and not following instructions), there is nothing that I haven't been able to recover from. The gtablet hardware is pretty darned good, and the custom roms that people here have posted are great and sooooo much better than running stock that it is night and day. I highly advise anyone who is wanting to have the best experience out of their gtablet to take the time to read up and then take the plunge - if you really mess up, there is plenty of help here on xda.

SuderMods - a Wooters Tale (formerly Tail)

I receive my GT in a day or so an plan to go to work on it immediately. I will post my steps and experiences here . sort of my own personal wiki. It will be part historical notes to myself....part useful info for y-all...part ***** session.
I will start with my Shipping experiences:
Ordered on the 23rd (like all wooters) around 4:30 pm Pacific
Got my Tracking number yesterday, 29th, around 12:30. Clearly part of the 2nd or 3rd tranche.
FedEx first showed info around 10pm last night.
Mar 29, 2011 2:27 AM - Left FedEx origin facility - Austin.
I've seen others where it goes from Austin to Huchins ... hope mine doesn't have that extra stop..unless that's a plane .
I've done some reading in here on ROMs and bootloaders and recovery...sounds like an AA meeting.
The Tools
NVFlash : utility written by NVidia to facilitate changing the partitions in the memory structure.
ADB : a generic utility used to facility communication between a computer (your PC) and an Android device (your GT).
Apparently, getting ADB running for the GT is a little different than for our phones.
Here is an ADB Guide for windows users I found that has stuff for W7 x86 and x64.
Here is an NVFlash guide for window users...also has x64 stuff.
on Recovery
I've read a couple different posts relating to recovery...to Clock or not to Clock? I've read many posts on how to install Clockwork, other posts that say do NOT install Clockwork. The issue seems to revolve around the fact that Clockwork does NOT modify the bootloader, while the Stock Recovery can. However, Clockwork allows you to clear user data but Stock does not. I think that gAdam ROM has both.
From what I can gather....the bootloader is sort of like the BIOS of your computer. It sort of sets up your GT tab for whatever you're running on it. Some ROMs use different memory partitions in different ways, and the bootloader needs to match it.
roeBeet's post on Recovery has great info.
The recovery issue is confusing. The second post in the above thread indicates to not install the Clockworkmod app...only install bekit's .8 recovery...of which there are two versions...read the post. I've read it 4 times and am still confused.
Firmware
3389 - first batch of woo-Tabs
3588 - most common version
3991 - potential next step from Viewsonic
What do these number represent? I think it's firmware version...which is different than bootloader. I haven't got a good sense of it yet .
I read in the Shipping receiving thread that someone got 3588. Maybe the second batch is different. That would be good...almost worth the wai.....naw....
The first "version" post for the wooters was This one.
"shipped with version 1.1-3389"
On page 2 of that thread roeBeet writes :
"It's not a requirement, but I think it's a good idea to flash to 3588 first. The reason is that you'll get the latest bootloader and recovery, which ROMs like VEGAn don't touch.
Recovery is the one that concerns me, as 3588 recovery seems to be a kind of "gateway" recovery that might (and I stress "might") be needed to get you to a future firmware level. So, imo, I would flash to 3588 first, THEN start using ROMs if you want. It's a safer bet, again imo."
Update: I saw this post in the Shipping Thread:
"Just got mine! Not sure what firmware i started with, but as I turned on wifi I was prompted to update to 3588."
So, it looks like you will be updated to 3588 as soon as you enable wifi....RoeBeet says this is the best starting point...so I guess everything should work out as we need it.
On ROMs & Kernels
Here's a sticky post with links to Video Reviews of All ROMs.
Personally, I will try some other ROMs....but Culkulin had the most stable stuff back in the TouchPro2 days. and I've read great reports on his v1.1 ROM. I will give that one a run early.
Kernsls are different than ROMs. Honestly I don't have a complete grasp on it all ....but I'm pretty sure the ROM runs on top of the Kernel. You can run different Kernels on the same ROM and it will run differently. I think the kernel may control the I/O between the ROM and the hardware.
What I've Done
Initial steps
Well it finally came yesterday.
1. Hooked up to Wifi
2. OTA Update immediately loaded...I obliged
I mistakenly turned on the TNT desktop...what a mistake...i just didn't like it.
So now I'll just load clockwork. But wait we said we weren't suppose to. I honestly didn't see any way around it. I needed to load a ROM but couldn't get the thing into the standard recovery mode. I was short on time and really needed to get a ROM in there fast.
I used the Stick Post as a guide. I had some issues at first. I could see recovery being installed, but I could never get CWM to come up. 5 times I pressed Power- Volume+ and it would just boot. Then I started looking at the folders and files and figured it out.
The instructions are to pick internal or external memory install type and download the proper file. I picked external and dropped it on SDCard. duh.
There are two SDCard folders!
SDCard is the internal ROM
SDCard2 is my card.
Once I figured that out, everything's been jake.
CWM is working I loaded a ROM and am rockin the house!
I'm running Culkulin's 1.1 and love it. I know this guy's roms from the TouchPro2 days. I always built very solid kitchens and I would always use his ROMs. So I'm doing it again. Thanks Cullie!
Tablet's need HC
However, it won't be good enough. I've run Honeycomb on my Nook Color and love it. I will put up with a little performance hit to have that great interface. I just like always have some navigation ON THE BOTTOM. Seriously, if you haven't seen HC, check it out.
So now I'm going to try to find an HC ROM and compare it with Cully's ROM.
I will also try CM7.
However, all this will have to wait. I have a big Boy's Ski Weekend in Tahoe this weekend....I'll be back next week.!
Ginger requires some getting used to : (Updated 4/6/2011)
I loaded up a CM7 build and got lost at first....maybe it's just the recovery I'm using..
Froyo ROMs like Culkulkin, have the memory in the device as SDCard....the external card is SDCard2
Gingerbread ROMs like CM7, have the memory in the device as emmc...the external card is SDCard.
Now, switch between these can be interesting, because, all the browsers put downloaded files....like kernals or gapps, in the download folder on SDCard. Recovery, also looks to SDCard when you want to "apply a zip".
So, If you were on Froyo, everything is great...download from apps in the device and recovery all look at the same place.
BUT in Gingerbread, you have to move the zip file, from SDCard -> emmc....before you go into recovery....so that recovery will see it.
This is probably because of the version of recovery I'm using. But to me, it's a small price to pay.
I haven't tried going back to Froyo from GB, so I'm not sure how it will work....

Useful Links - I'll try to keep this updated.
Apps
New App List Site to share your apps and experiences
XDA Thread on working apps
ROMs
Culkulin : v1.1 | beta link removed..it was for the ROM listed
Vanilla AOSP Gingerbread
Corwin : Tweaked CM7 RC4 | Using this now....like the full time status bar of the CM7 builds.

Cool Stuff You Can Do
NAV System
I have an old bluetooth GPS receiver that i hadn't used in like 3 years....I read some posts about how you can use them...see below.
Well I'm happy to report that it works GREAT!
Install Bluetooth GPS Provider on your GT,
Set up -> Applications -> Development : Allow Mock Locations
You should be good.
It worked great for me in Google Maps.
4x4 Backcountry Nav System
I haven't tried this yet...don't have my GT yet....but THIS looks useful
Use your external bluetooth GPS device on your GT. BlueGPS4Droid
You need Mobile Atlas Creator to create your offline Maps
Along with TrekBuddy... Or Orux .. you got yourself a nice 4x4 nav system.
Accessories
I'm probably going to be picking up this keyboard case from Amazon for $28
Here's some nice picks and review from Android Central forums

ROM Reviews
Here I will discuss my ROM and Kernal changes and what I found.
Speed : Quad scores along with general feel
Solidness : force closes and stuff
Useability : what apps install and work, also how it is moving around in it.
1. Stock 3288?
Sucked...sucked hard....lasted about 30 minutes before I ran to my nearest Recovery.
2. Culkulin v1.1 : (3/30)
This ROM was very very solid and FAST. like 2600+ QuadScore fast. Clemsyn's v9 helped even more with this...WOW, this rom is fast.
Hulu : When I first loaded it Hulu worked. Then i did something and it stopped working.
Market : market was pretty limited. even the "build.prop" fix, didn't seem to help much.
ChromeMarks complained I wasn't using stock launcher so I couldn't drop shortcuts to the desktop.
Speed : 8.5
Solidness : 8
Useability : 6
3. Corwin's Tweaked CM7 RC4 : (4/5)
Not as fast : Quadscore at 1800. I loaded Clemsyn's v9 and it bumped it up to around 2000...so do that for sure.
Hulu : no workie here....I'll try to custom Flash and see if that helps...it does...hulu is up now. to clarify...I set the default browser to Agent: ie6.
Market : everything under the sun...it's what you want. just about everything shows up .... just about everything installs and works..
ChromeMarks let me drop shortcuts to the desktop.
I really like the full time, bottom status bar on this rom...makes it so easy to move around apps and stuff...really really useful.
Speed : 7
Solidness : 8
Useability : 9
4. VeganTab 5.1 : (4/6)
I was a bit scared loading this ROM coming from Corwin's Tweaked. But someone asked me to do it....so I did.
The vegan thread says it will completely erase my emmc internal memory. We shall see....looks like it just renamed it back to sdcard
Hate the giant keyboard. This is a slate right? why the huge keyboard?
This does NOT have the fulltime status bar like Corwin's has...isn't just a restyled top bar
Market set up OK...did not show Dolphin browser, similar to Culkulin...so I assume it's similarly hampered.
Good Quadrant scores : 2200 - 2400
Speed : 8
Solidness : 8
Useability : 5
Back on Corwin now...easy transition....just couldn't get into the Vegan.

lol, is this a joke? 4 threads reserve to mod a gtab?

You know, there is so much information on this forum already...if someone is looking for a certain 'how to' all they need to do is search. Don't really need a step by step when there are already stickies on the majority of the mods/issues.
Each to his own though...

i think hes too accustomed to his droid 2 forum where the people who create roms post this way, however, that information isnt stored in 20 other threads so its a little more needed, this is like someone thinking them modding their device was so important it needed its "own personal wiki" rofl

The purpose here is to consolidate knowledge to a useable form for others. Even if it's just a narrative. The info is VERY scattered...and it constantly changes...Thanks for you helpful comments!

I think this is a very good idea. Thanks for taking the initiative. I appriciate any kind of action forward in this forum, naysaying gets us nowhere. Suggestion, maybe make an unboxing video and a video showing steps to find release version. I think it would add to the complete experience your trying to capture for all of us here. Or you could link good YouTube vids. Keep it up! Can't wait to see more from you. Oh and it wouldn't hurt to link the nvflash thread in development forum

Mantara said:
Oh and it wouldn't hurt to link the nvflash thread in development forum
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Done...keep the suggestions coming!

sudermatt said:
The purpose here is to consolidate knowledge to a useable form for others. Even if it's just a narrative. The info is VERY scattered...and it constantly changes...Thanks for you helpful comments!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree that a consolidated and **up to date** source of installation / modding
info would be great - but it's a huge job.
Last night I was bitten by rom manager - led to the dreaded "magic number
mismatch" semi-brick. Turned out this was a "known issue" as I found
out *after*. I did not think to search for "magic number" prior to the
incident for some reason ... go figure

albright said:
I agree that a consolidated and **up to date** source of installation / modding
info would be great - but it's a huge job.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm just sharing my experiences...and what I find during my wRooting journey.
albright said:
Last night I was bitten by rom manager - led to the dreaded "magic number
mismatch" semi-brick. Turned out this was a "known issue" as I found
out *after*. I did not think to search for "magic number" prior to the
incident for some reason ... go figure
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to here that.
are you a wRooter? can you tell us :
1. Where you were (device state) when you started.
2. What you were trying to accomplish.
3. Steps you took.
4. issues that arose.
5. What you've done to back out / resolve?
Thanks,

I read the title for this thread, and am still waiting to hear his story about how he came to have a tail...

sudermatt said:
1. Where you were (device state) when you started.
2. What you were trying to accomplish.
3. Steps you took.
4. issues that arose.
5. What you've done to back out / resolve?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No - I bought mine from tigerdirect.ca.
I had installed google earth and got it working a few days ago; but
then thought I'd upgrade to a clemsyn kernel. I had already
installed tnt lite 4.2.5. That worked, but when
I tried to start google earth I got a crash and reboot. System then
would not start (stuck at android splash screen).
I should have wiped out everything before the upgrade I think.
I then tried to restore a backup using rom manager + clockworkmod.
Turns out that's a bad idea (rom manager problem - some post here
I found out later warns about this) and when I rebooted to the
restored tablet I got a "magic number mismatch" error.
Then it was time for nvflash.
That worked and I now have everything back to working.
Except I cannot get google earth to work anymore. Don't know
why.

Updated the OP
"Ginger requires some getting used to : (Updated 4/6/2011)
I loaded up a CM7 build and got lost at first....maybe it's just the recovery I'm using.."
Also updated Cool Things Post
NAV System
I have an old bluetooth GPS receiver that i hadn't used in like 3 years....

Added the following section to page one.
ROM Reviews
Here I will discuss my ROM and Kernal changes and what I found.
Speed : Quad scores along with general feel
Solidness : force closes and stuff
Useability : what apps install and work, also how it is moving around in it.

@suddermat
I think you did a good job. Thank you for your post. I would like to see your review on the Vegan 5.1 and TnT roms, with and with out different kernls. Keep up the good work. Thanks.

Check first page for new review
4. VeganTab 5.1 : (4/6)
I was a bit scared loading this ROM coming from Corwin's Tweaked. But someone asked me to do it....so I did.

albright said:
I then tried to restore a backup using rom manager + clockworkmod.
Turns out that's a bad idea (rom manager problem - some post here
I found out later warns about this) and when I rebooted to the
restored tablet I got a "magic number mismatch" error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ran into this same problem myself but was able to resolve it with a different approach. First off a reboot and flash the proper friendly version of cwm. Then repartition the drive to wipe everything out. Went to the mounts and storage to mount the ext usb and plugged into the desktop. Drop the update.zip onto the now empty drive, disconnect the desktop and unmount. From the main menu go factory reset, apply update.zip, and another factory reset. Then you should be able to reboot and be in business.

Nice, reads like a good review. keeps others from having to do some of the same experimenting.
You might consider these if you want a more honeycomb like experience:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1002000
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007455
Also, the VTL-Launcher:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1017451

Nextbook Next7 and Next6 Custom ROM's

I am hoping to get a custom ROM made for both the Next6 and Next7, so if anyone would like to help here are the factory ROM's.
http://www.multiupload.com/6BY8BVS5BJ---Next7's Factory ROM
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=7V8MNSFI---Next6's Factory ROM

Right now my friend and I are working on making the Next6 have a full read/write partition with permanent root access.

I'm interested. The Next6 is on sale at Big Lots for $149...
I'm looking to pick one up. Please keep m posted!

TinkerToyTommy said:
I'm interested. The Next6 is on sale at Big Lots for $149...
I'm looking to pick one up. Please keep m posted!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here...

subscribed

I just got mine yesterday and subscribed to this thread. Please keep us informed.

Li'm currently counting down the minutes till biglots opens. in a rush to cash my check, and grab my new cheapo tablet, to be home in time to go to my kids dr appointment.
anyone got a full list of specs on the next6?
EDIT: z4root works perfectly. Now I'm waiting on this ota firmware update to download.
It feels sluggish compared to my hd2 but I expected that. But it does render HD video quite nicely. Rooting was a breeze, and if you pick it up at biglots, be sure to splurge 15 extra for an 8gb SD card.

I spoke to the company today because my OTA has been trying to download for 2 days.
Apparently the OTA only changes the Boarder Books to a different carries since Boarders is closed. IT DOES NOT UPGRADE THE FIRMWARE OR OS.
Please let us know of any ROMS available on this device that would be very helpful.

nathonix said:
Li'm currently counting down the minutes till biglots opens. in a rush to cash my check, and grab my new cheapo tablet, to be home in time to go to my kids dr appointment.
anyone got a full list of specs on the next6?
EDIT: z4root works perfectly. Now I'm waiting on this ota firmware update to download.
It feels sluggish compared to my hd2 but I expected that. But it does render HD video quite nicely. Rooting was a breeze, and if you pick it up at biglots, be sure to splurge 15 extra for an 8gb SD card.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you able to get a perminent root with z4root? I could only get a temporary root to work. What tools to use for a perminent solution
Got my next6 a day ago. Thanks all for the BigLots tip.

i think the way the image is stored on the tablet you'll have to flash a rom that is already rooted. Im not very familiar with cooking roms but i know you'll have to use afptool to unpack the image make the changes recreate the crc for the image and repack it.

From what I've been able to glean from frantic web searching, the system partition is cramfs and is read only. Temporary root only.
Also, its possible to access the recovery menu using adb reboot recovery, but its not of much use since the thing only has two dpad buttons.
Sent from my HD2

Next 6
I am very interested in this also ; I have tried to run some of the next 2 & 3 roms on this device (and they boot) but they don't really work right (IE: the touch screen doesn't work)
hopefully we can get this going!

i've got the rom dumped, just having a spot of bother mounting a cramfs file under ubuntu.
since i've last posted i found out a bit more about the hardware involved, and how its more or less a generic 7 inch rockchip tablet, minus a few buttons, which means a good majority of the work has already been done.
Required Reading for those interested;
http://wiki.archosfans.com/index.php?title=Dump_your_Home_Tablet_rom_and_create_a_custom_rom
bit of difference is the rkupdater program doesn't work unless you can get the tab into a flasher mode of some sort. However, if you just drop the update.img in the sdcard root and insert the card while the tab is running, it seems to kick into the updater properly.

hold down the right hand arrow
with the Pad turned off hold the right hand arrow to put the tablet into update mode ; then you can use the RKAndroidBatchUpgrade.exe..... (you do need the USB driver - found on the first page of the next2 next3 thread)

orignialpost said:
kentisevil said:
with the Pad turned off hold the right hand arrow to put the tablet into update mode ; then you can use the RKAndroidBatchUpgrade.exe..... (you do need the USB driver - found on the first page of the next2 next3 thread)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks. figured out through trial and error if i held both facebuttons and hit the reset while it was plugged up, it'd get into update mode.
your way needs less buttons. still at a loss because while i can dump the update.img and extract it, i cant seem to open up the system.img inside of it.
any suggestions? i pulled it using rkdump.
EDIT: nvm got it, had to pull the system.img from the device separately and add it back to update.img
long story short, i've got market, will be working on root next.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
here ya go, (Next6)regular rom + market, still haven't got root worked out quite yet.

is this for the next6 or 7?
Oh I see now this is a rom for a next6

Next6 Base rom for editing
heres a stock copy of update.img with an editable system.img if you feel like adding your own apps or customizing it a bit further.
happy modding

I got one of these bad boys today and its a pretty decent little fellow.
I think with a root and well made custom rom it can really shine.
EDIT, does anyone know a way to change the icons they used? I dont really care for them because they look warped and garrish. I did manage to replace the launcher with launcherPro, "adw would crash and default to a debug launcher".
Also does anyone know how one could update SAM? Can I just reinstall the apk and it replace teh factory installed one? Also is there any better marketplaces than SAM? It seems kinda limited and lacking.

I was wondering if it's possible to upgrade the next6 from 2.1 to 2.2/3~
I'm not requesting it or anything as I personally don't know anything about android or how the next6's rom works.
Thanks

I believe it has to be rooted before you can upgrade the firmware to another version.
Also I have noticed a issue with the custom rom above. I cannot download any apps on the marketplace for some reason. Anyone know how I could clear its cache or reset this device?
EDIT: If I do a "factory reset" though the privacy section in settings, it seems to fix the market. Of course this completely wipes the device, also the market seems to break the same way again, extremely easily.
Basically you can download a few apps, go to the homescreen, then come back to find that you magically cannot download ANY applications. Ive tried killing the market app using the advance task manager, ive tried clearing the markets cache, and even restarting the device. The only thing that works is completely restoring the device. I am hoping that you will be able to fix it, or tell me how to fix it. XD
I installed the following applications. Not sure if this matters, but it seems like market breaks when I make ADW the default launcher.
ADW Launcher
Nook
Also I have a SD card in the unit.
EDIT:
I have rooted out the cause of the problem, changing the default homescreen/launcher seems to screw with market. So while you can install and use another launcher, you CANNOT set it as the default without it screwing up the android market.
EDIT:
Humm, well color me confused, because last night I managed to switch the home launcher without it interfearing with market. But this morning when I booted up the device I could not download any applications. Could it be possible that it is deleting key files when I restart the device?