Yes, I definitely mean “wonderful” and “experts.” It is astonishing how much time, effort, and expertise the people who write the ROMs, etc., do for others, just to help us enjoy our cellphones. So, it is with no disrespect that I offer these comments on the instructions the experts give to us noobies to help us try to make our phones work better when they post “complete” instructions about how go to about this.
#1 – Odin.
There’s lots of advice to get Odin, but there are lots of Odin versions out there. Usually (generally in the computer world) what works when there’s a recommendation to get a program is to find the latest version. Even if a forum posting has a link to get a program, we figure that was the latest version available when the post was made and it still makes sense to get the currently latest version. That doesn’t work here. The latest Odin version I found was Odin 4.28. 4.28 totally fails to recognize my Samsung Droid Charge. But, if I use the ones referenced in the postings here (e.g. Odin3 v1.85) it recognizes my phone immediately. I understand the feeling that if we’re noobies we should just follow the directions exactly as written, but a little footnote about how this is different than everything else with computers would help.
I’m sure it isn’t true, but Odin seems to come from a mystical cloud location without any existence in our 3 dimensional universe. So, there seems to be no home website to explain that the latest version shouldn’t necessarily be used by everybody. And, there seems to be nobody on the forum who takes credit for upgrading Odin. Very mysterious.
Also – there’s at least three ways I’ve seen adamantly expressed as the proper way to connect a phone to Odin. #1 – simply attach the phone to the computer in the usual “download” mode, and Odin will find it.
#2 – Take out the phone battery for 5 seconds, replace it, then boot into recovery mode by holding down the up-volume, power, and home keys until “Samsung” flashes twice.
#3 – Take out the battery and don’t return it. Plug the phone into the computer, booting into recovery mode like #2.
As far as I can tell, #2 and #3 were needed for prior versions of Odin. Still, we noobies do Google this process, and it’s scary getting these conflicting directions about how to proceed. So, since you are obviously trying to make things less scary and confusing for us, you could mention this too.
Part of the problem is that there are various “Here’s how to replace your stock ROM with a better one” postings. Maybe each of them works perfectly, and there are many paths to enlightenment. Still, it’s worrisome for a noobie to try to figure out which of these paths to bet our phone on. (Of course, it’s also difficult for people trying to actually achieve spiritual enlightenment to decide on a path, so maybe this confusion is just an inevitable part of human experience.)
(cont. below)
#2 – CWM – Clock Work Mod.
I’m still confused about the need and timing of this one. Some sources say it’s entirely optional, just allowing other cool stuff done later. Others seem to say it’s important to install (flash through Odin) this before installing the new ROM. And, then there seem to be some ROMs that Odin can flash that do it all at the same time. And, then, there’s the issue of what order things are to be done in. If we just use Odin to flash a new Gingerbread ROM, can we, or should we, use Odin to flash in CWM?
As a noobie, I’m inclined to the “the less I mess with, the less chance I have of screwing everything up.” So, I think I’d like to skip the CWM while installing my new ROM, and wait to use CWM until I find some additional cool feature I can’t add without it.
#3 – ROM’s.
Where’s Consumer Reports when we need them? There are apparently various ROM’s we could use to improve our phones (e.g. Samsung Droid Charge). They are listed with somewhat cryptic explanations. Those explanations are probably perfectly explanatory for experts, but as a Noobie I don’t get a clear sense of direction from reading them. For example, Android 2.2 ROM’s (Froyo) are still listed, along with 2.3 (Gingerbread). Why would anybody want 2.2 if 2.3 is available? I assume there’s some reason I should be considering, but have no idea what it is. Among the 2.3’s, there’s also the “bloated” vs. “debloated” versions. Many of the unremovable (until rooted) stock apps seem to be both useless and resource drainers. But, I don’t know if I’m ready to give up all of them. And, the “debloated” versions are written by programmers, not people who want to devote their lives to writing up detailed commentaries about what is, and is not, debloated and why. Is there any reason not to just keep all the stock apps, and freeze or uninstall them with Titanium Backup later, as I identify the ones I do not want?
I feel anxious when I read somebody’s post about their newly released ROM, with lots of compliments, then comments that some feature now isn’t working. It’s hard enough to get answers about how to deal with the stock ROM.
I’m also confused about the difference between the “kernal” and the “ROM”. My impression is that “kernal” is which version of Android we use. “ROM” is broader, including extra’s like CDM and CDW, and Voodoo, etc. Or, not?
Part of the problem, obviously, is that the ROM writers have to do a different version for every [email protected]#$%^&*! phone that is made. Apparently even with the Samsung Galaxy family, there are enough differences that the ROM’s are customized for each one. (My prior phone was a Vibrant.) I am grateful that we have choices, and that these ROM’s are available, at all, but it would help to get a little more commentary (i.e. recommendations) about which ones are best for those of us just wanting a better ROM.
#4 – Voodoo. This is like the other issues. It seems like a great thing, to make the file system more efficient and do things like improve the sound system. But, it’s also confusing about when/if to install it in relation to the general ROM update.
So, maybe one of the wonderful experts will clarify these things here, or tweak their general instructions, for the benefit of noobies. Regardless, I again express my appreciation for all they’ve done for us.
There's a whole lot of "it depends" in this.
#1 - Odin may be up to 4.28, but Odin3 is newer than Odin. That's pretty self explanatory on its own.
#2 - You need CWM. Period. But, if you are flashing a full Odin ROM, it already comes with it, so you won't have to go into it unless you want to flash a theme or a new kernel. If you are installing a CWM ROM image, you need to flash CWM first.
#3 - Froyo (2.2) is still the only offical release for this phone. Gingerbread (2.3) is coming, but it's still in beta, and not officially released. The only GB releases we have are leaked and are not official final builds, therefore, they are not guaranteed to be of the quality or stability of Froyo, and, more importantly for us, there is no source available for the GB releases yet, so we don't have a lot of the cool tweaks available. So, it really does depend on what you are after.
#4 - All the current ROMs pretty much support it out of the box. If you are going with a stock ROM instead, you need a Voodoo enabled kernel to activate it. If you're ever in doubt of whether you have it and if it's enabled, install Voodoo Control and look at the lagfix section of the app.
I built a web page that has compiled all of the software you need to root, kernel update, ROM, and recover your Droid Charge with direct links to all of the software in one place.
http://www.toms-world.org/android
Plus it comes with very detailed instructions on how to do any one the activities mentioned above.
For those experts who do know how to do all of this, I'd like to see some collaboration and opinions on my directions. I'm only one person so I can't think of everything that could be added as far as a tutorial.
My idea is that a lot of us that know how to do this stuff should start a place where people can find the information they need for the Droid Charge all in one place without having to go from thread to thread, page to page, etc. Having it all in one place would benefit the Droid Charge community greatly.
Thanks for the replies.
Also, answering my own questions,
Not only is CWM necessary, but the remove battery 1st instructions, at:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=14692818&postcount=1
are correct. The other instructions I found that didn't include this stop didn't work -- Odin just sat there.
Also, at about page 11 of that xda thread, it says (correctly) that after ODIN says it's done, it's OK to unplug your phone, despite the large, brightly colored screen that says "Downloading... Do not turn off Target!!!"
Also, the kernal is different than the OS. So, first we find and install a rooted kernal (I guess this is like the most fundamental part of the phone's operating system), then pick a ROM (i.e. version of Android) to install.
Yes, now that you pointed it out, I agree it should have been obvious that ODIN3 is a later family version of ODIN, so no matter how high the version of ODIN we find, it's not going to be up the ODIN3 level. ...sigh
In the case of loading GummyCharged, you don't need to pick a kernel. The GummyCharged package contains an already rooted kernel (iMoseyOn's Lean Droid Charge Kernel) so basically if you load GummyCharged you have a kernel flashed along side it.
The only time you have to flash a new kernel is if you want to run a different kernel than the one contained in your ROM. Or if you want to update the kernel to a newer version of the kernel.
The kernel is the heart and soul of an operating system. It does all of the work in coordinating memory and process allocation. Think of it as a traffic cop.
trparky said:
In the case of loading GummyCharged, you don't need to pick a kernel...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Your description of the kernel is much better than mine.
Another bit of noobie confusion:
The GummyCharged thread at
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1163123
says to install through CWM, after rooting. So, I already installed a new kernal, so I could have root.
As I understand better, now, I hope -- even with GummyCharged -- I had two choices, as there are two GummyCharged versions available. One is the two-step process (new kernal, then new OS). The other is to do both at the same time, through ODIN, which would have been easier.
I did install a new kernal, through CDW, seeing that path more clearly.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1104634
Just a note that when my phone rebooted, Titanium Backup said I did not have root privileges. On a hunch, I just rebooted again, and that solved the problem. TB is happy, and so am I.
Then install a new OS through CWM.
Another thread that might have some useful information for you can be found here -> http://rootzwiki.com/showthread.php?4643-HOW-TO-quot-Clean-quot-install-GummyCharged-FE-2.0. Theres a lot there (maybe too much?) but if nothing else there are a number of useful links. I hope it helps!
Off topic: trparky I tried to send you a pm yesterday but my computer was acting up - not sure if you got it or not.
Thanks for all the help. Everything seems to be fine. This is just sort of a summary & wind-up post of another noobie's experience and successful quest for cellphone happiness.
First, there seem to be three ways to do scary things to the e-guts of my cellphone.
#1 -- Odin3 (a.k.a. Odin, but Odin3 v.x is the one that works for Samsung/Verizon Droid Charge [SDC]). Odin3 runs on the computer, with the cellphone properly tethered to the computer, and can insert stuff, like CWM. So, mostly the first step is to use Odin3 to insert CWM (superseding the stock recovery program). From some post it seemed it's possible to skip this step and do everything from Odin3, but that post also said that approach wasn't for noobies, even though it seemed easier to me. Odin3 is an elegant program, but you have to find somebody's Betty Crocker instructions for how to use it.
#2 -- Use the ordinary SDC file tethering to put .zip files onto the SDCard, because CWM uses those to install things like kernels and OS's (versions of Android). Sometimes the kernel and OS come bundled. Sometimes not. I ended up flashing a kernel first, then an OS with a bundled kernel, and everything seems fine.
#3 -- there's some other program, starting with an "H" that can also work like Odin, I think, but I ended up anxious enough figuring out #1 and #2, so didn't want to learn a whole other approach that might, or might not, somehow have been better, so I ignored this approach.
After I had my new root kernel, I used Titanium backup to freeze the bloatware. At that point I sort of chickened/burned out because there were too many choices of which version of Android to flash. I decided I didn't really need any of them, since my phone would be efficient enough without the bloatware running to give me everything I needed. What originally got me to start flashing my Android phone was when I would (repeatedly) receive calls on my old Samsung Vibrant, but the phone was so busy doing some [email protected]#$%^&*! thing that it wouldn't let me answer the call. With a more advanced phone (my new SDC), and frozen bloatware, I was confident I wouldn't have that problem, so just stopped there ... ... ... until I was horrified to receive another call which my SDC told me about but was too busy doing some [email protected]#$%^&*! thing that it wouldn't let me answer the call. OMG, it's happening again! At that point the choice of which version of Android to use because less important, because I was sure that nobody's custom Android would let that happen. So, I went with the GummyCharged Froyo [GummyChargedFE_2.0.zip]. At this point, I'd worked with CWM enough that it was all easy. Downloaded the file, copied it to my SDCard, booted to recovery, erased files & Dalvik cache, flashed the GummyCharged, and restarted. Lovely.
One nice aspect I'd not anticipated was that somebody has thoughtfully improved the process, so immediately my phone started re-downloading and installing the apps I had before. It's kind of a hassle to have to re-do all that manually, so special chops/thanks to the GummyCharged team for that feature. My phone works fine. I've tried, and happily failed, to make it too busy to let me answer a call.
What's left? I have to make donations to the Gummycharged people, whose software I now use, and the person who tweaked CWM that I use. It feels like I should make a donation to the Odin3 trolls, but haven't seem a request for that, nor have any who they are or how to do that.
I'll also be keeping my eye on the developing Gingerbread kernels, occasionally, until it looks like those are so mature that there's no reason to not confidently install & flash (through Odin or CWM, both of which I not feel fairly comfortable with) the upgrade.
On the off chance that anybody's still reading this, I do have one last question:
Can I delete the GummyCharged .zip file from my SDCard. I remember, back when I flashed my Vibrant, that I later deleted a seemingly useless .zip file called "update.zip", and that caused a problem. File isn't huge, so except for my mild OCD, no big problem in just leaving it there.
Thanks, again, to the wonderful experts who've helped me and so many others through this.
angelsix said:
...
#3 -- there's some other program, starting with an "H" that can also work like Odin, I think, but I ended up anxious enough figuring out #1 and #2, so didn't want to learn a whole other approach that might, or might not, somehow have been better, so I ignored this approach.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe the program is called Heimdall - this is more often associated with Mac users, as ODIN is a Windows program.
angelsix said:
...
One nice aspect I'd not anticipated was that somebody has thoughtfully improved the process, so immediately my phone started re-downloading and installing the apps I had before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not positive, but I believe this to be more of a Google thing. Whatever apps you've downloaded from the market are linked to the google account used on the phone, so once you sign back in on your phone post-flash, those apps (whatever ended up being stored as downloaded-by-you by google at least) start getting pushed to your phone.
angelsix said:
...
On the off chance that anybody's still reading this, I do have one last question:
Can I delete the GummyCharged .zip file from my SDCard. I remember, back when I flashed my Vibrant, that I later deleted a seemingly useless .zip file called "update.zip", and that caused a problem. File isn't huge, so except for my mild OCD, no big problem in just leaving it there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can delete the file, but this is essentially the installer file - if you ever have need to re-install it later on, you will need that (or a more up-to-date one if such a thing exists) file again. I tend to be an electronic pack rat myself, but you can delete the file from your SD card without any immediate adverse effects. If I remember right, the "update.zip" of old was associated with some earlier variants of CWM - without it you would not be able to get to the "custom" recovery (i.e. CWM) to flash things. Seems like such things are no longer necessary anymore, at least not with the recent versions.
dwitherell said:
I'm not positive, but I believe this to be more of a Google thing. Whatever apps you've downloaded from the market are linked to the google account used on the phone, so once you sign back in on your phone post-flash, those apps (whatever ended up being stored as downloaded-by-you by google at least) start getting pushed to your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is correct, and it's something that I strongly dislike, as I have installed plenty of things from the Market that I have since uninstalled and no desire to restore. If you skip account setup when you are first setting up the phone, and then manually go into Settings->Accounts & Sync, it will skip this, which is yet another reason to like aftermarket roms, as the stock roms will not allow you to get to the launcher until you set up a Google Account.
Related
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?
Guys,
I just became the, now rather dubious, owner of a gTablet that a colleague brought for me from the States. So far I am not that impressed. Several apps that supposed to be on there, aren't (no Kindle app out of the box, and no gMarket, despite what the manual says).
SO, I try the announced update procedure: fails.
First time fails at 8%. Second time fails at 13%, third time fails at 28%, fourth time fails at 4%. Is this a joke of some sort? Also the download is rather slow, as in, they use smoke signals to get the message across!
Does anyone have the update as a file that I can run as an apk perhaps?
I also have to point out that the GUI rather sucks. The settings menu misses about 50% of the Android 2.2 options (I have a HTC desire. Waaaay more settings options...)
After my complaints,lets get to figuring this out.
1) Can someone point me to the update pack if it is available for download via my Mac and can be installed using that ES explorer program it has installed?
2) Does the update provide Google Market or the original weblink? Does it use a different gui or still the same simpleton gui?
3) if not, is there a simple ROM flash I can do that gives me a different GUI and google Market?
I have flashed my HTC Hero before, which was not a big deal. However, I want things done simple, so if there is a good ROM with a nice GUI and simple instructions for a noob (I got two left hands when it comes to this sort of stuff), and Google Market, I would gladly see a link.
Any support will be very welcome!
you found the right place
ksporry said:
Guys,
I just became the, now rather dubious, owner of a gTablet that a colleague brought for me from the States. So far I am not that impressed. Several apps that supposed to be on there, aren't (no Kindle app out of the box, and no gMarket, despite what the manual says).
SO, I try the announced update procedure: fails.
First time fails at 8%. Second time fails at 13%, third time fails at 28%, fourth time fails at 4%. Is this a joke of some sort? Also the download is rather slow, as in, they use smoke signals to get the message across!
Does anyone have the update as a file that I can run as an apk perhaps?
I also have to point out that the GUI rather sucks. The settings menu misses about 50% of the Android 2.2 options (I have a HTC desire. Waaaay more settings options...)
After my complaints,lets get to figuring this out.
1) Can someone point me to the update pack if it is available for download via my Mac and can be installed using that ES explorer program it has installed?
2) Does the update provide Google Market or the original weblink? Does it use a different gui or still the same simpleton gui?
3) if not, is there a simple ROM flash I can do that gives me a different GUI and google Market?
I have flashed my HTC Hero before, which was not a big deal. However, I want things done simple, so if there is a good ROM with a nice GUI and simple instructions for a noob (I got two left hands when it comes to this sort of stuff), and Google Market, I would gladly see a link.
Any support will be very welcome!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Forget about the stock update and read about TNT lite or the vegan beta Rom if you feel experimental. You can get market flash and pretty much all the Google goodies.
ksporry said:
Guys,
I just became the, now rather dubious, owner of a gTablet that a colleague brought for me from the States. So far I am not that impressed. Several apps that supposed to be on there, aren't (no Kindle app out of the box, and no gMarket, despite what the manual says).
SO, I try the announced update procedure: fails.
First time fails at 8%. Second time fails at 13%, third time fails at 28%, fourth time fails at 4%. Is this a joke of some sort? Also the download is rather slow, as in, they use smoke signals to get the message across!
Does anyone have the update as a file that I can run as an apk perhaps?
I also have to point out that the GUI rather sucks. The settings menu misses about 50% of the Android 2.2 options (I have a HTC desire. Waaaay more settings options...)
After my complaints,lets get to figuring this out.
1) Can someone point me to the update pack if it is available for download via my Mac and can be installed using that ES explorer program it has installed?
2) Does the update provide Google Market or the original weblink? Does it use a different gui or still the same simpleton gui?
3) if not, is there a simple ROM flash I can do that gives me a different GUI and google Market?
I have flashed my HTC Hero before, which was not a big deal. However, I want things done simple, so if there is a good ROM with a nice GUI and simple instructions for a noob (I got two left hands when it comes to this sort of stuff), and Google Market, I would gladly see a link.
Any support will be very welcome!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A good start would be the following guide.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=865245
Understand that there are newer versions of the rom referenced, also there's VEGAn, a rom based on the Vega.
The Gtab stock needs a lot of help but it is a very good product with a little TLC and some grunt work:
Different devices/users different opinions. I am more than satisfied with the performance and feel of my Gtab without flashing a different ROM and what I did was follow these instructions:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
I used root explorer instead of AndRootFile
Then I changed my launcher to ADW.Launcher
Side load flash (Instructions/.apk on XDA-developers)
Do the market fix to get all market (Instructions/.apk on XDA-developers)
add titanium backup
add ROMManager
Note: When I applied the latest update from Viewsonic (fixed the video driver, now AngryBirds, etc working) I had to re-root the device but everything else works fine.
Even fixed the issue with Gtab not seeing Ad-hoc network from phone (Instructions can be found on internet). Now my Gtab rocks, connects to my home Wifi or if not available connects to my Phone Wifi.
I can still launch the default tapNtap if I want to and Viewsonic upgrades apply fine. I had an issue with update also....Support had me set the sleep to "off" and then it worked fine, however the update image was posted on XDA-developer:
Bobtran,
Interesting perspective. Could you run Quadrant and show us what that score is?
I have had TnT up to 2.2 then swithed to VEGAn beta3 now. Q =2411
Most everything runs very very fast...
All, Thanks for the suggestions and the useful links . I might be flashing mine this weekend.
As for which ROM to use, what are the pros and cons for one over another? E.g. if I were to take the TnT ROM (I think it's at 2.4.1 now?), how does that fare against, say, the Vegan Beta4 (I think the latest is beta4 from what I read on some posts)
Bobtran, did you have a link for the update image? seemed like you were going to post it, but got cut short...
Guys,
I am trying to install Clockwork Mod v08 as per one of the links. First issue is that the tablet won't mount the SDcard to my desktop. SHouldn't be a big issue as I can coy/paste the required files from the internal storage to the SDcard via ESexplorer (standard installed on the gTablet).
However, how do I know it installed correctly? I don't see a new app and the boot install goes very fast. There is an opened box with an arrow pointing down and a load bar that seems to have green hashed filling, as if it's preparing to install. Then suddenly the splash screen pops up. The box with arrow and progress bar are there for a second or so, maybe 2. Seems rather quick. Is this correct?
EDIT: I wanted to say the boot screen didn't come up when starting up with vol+ and pwr, but just noticed, it does... so should be ok
well, seems I have been successful in flashing the new ROM (TnT 2.4.0) using CWM-v08.
Question though, the instructions in the TnT installation guide (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=865245) seem to say that the market fix only is a partial fix (note that the comment applies to TnT2.2).
Now that I installed the TnT2.4.0 ROM, I was wondering if the market fix is also only partial for TnT2.4. If yes, can I run the patch at
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
and if yes, would that give me full Market access? If not, what's involved in getting full Market access?
As a side question that may not belong here but wouldn't be answered in the appropriate forum section: I have an XT701 phone that needs a Market Fix. Would the fix at
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
also provide my phone with the Market? Just a side question, if no answer, that's fine...
n2thecloud said:
Bobtran,
Interesting perspective. Could you run Quadrant and show us what that score is?
I have had TnT up to 2.2 then swithed to VEGAn beta3 now. Q =2411
Most everything runs very very fast...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I flashed to TnT lite yesterday so can't do that anymore without starting from scratch. Just testing the waters so to speak.
ksporry said:
All, Thanks for the suggestions and the useful links . I might be flashing mine this weekend.
As for which ROM to use, what are the pros and cons for one over another? E.g. if I were to take the TnT ROM (I think it's at 2.4.1 now?), how does that fare against, say, the Vegan Beta4 (I think the latest is beta4 from what I read on some posts)
Bobtran, did you have a link for the update image? seemed like you were going to post it, but got cut short...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I was but I couldn't find it. Did some more research and here it is:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=847653&page=4
see post #35
ksporry said:
well, seems I have been successful in flashing the new ROM (TnT 2.4.0) using CWM-v08.
Question though, the instructions in the TnT installation guide (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=865245) seem to say that the market fix only is a partial fix (note that the comment applies to TnT2.2).
Now that I installed the TnT2.4.0 ROM, I was wondering if the market fix is also only partial for TnT2.4. If yes, can I run the patch at
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
and if yes, would that give me full Market access? If not, what's involved in getting full Market access?
As a side question that may not belong here but wouldn't be answered in the appropriate forum section: I have an XT701 phone that needs a Market Fix. Would the fix at
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
also provide my phone with the Market? Just a side question, if no answer, that's fine...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the market fix, just see the link that I have in my first post, in the TnT Lite thread. That fix could also work on other devices. It's the same fix in the link you just posted.
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
I just created a website called Viewsonic GTablet For Dummies. I'm slowly adding step by step instructions on how to do things for dummies.
Well done! This is another great asset for new modders. Love that the first thing you did was nvflash for dummies. Its a handy tool and invaluable skill to have.
Great Job and this should be a 'sticky'.
Suggested to add a section for adb.
Thanks
Thanks!
Very simple instructions. My Tiger Direct GTab arrives tomorrow and I want to be prepared to bring it to 1.1 so I can install CM7.
I think I could do this a couple different ways:
1. Standard recovery
2. CWM update
3. NVFlash
I have read tons of posts/articles and being a sw engineer myself I can appreciate hoe difficult the documentation task is.
I haven't scanned the whole thing, but it looks nice - well laid out for new users, or even old users for that matter!
VTDivot said:
Very simple instructions. My Tiger Direct GTab arrives tomorrow and I want to be prepared to bring it to 1.1 so I can install CM7.
I think I could do this a couple different ways:
1. Standard recovery
2. CWM update
3. NVFlash
I have read tons of posts/articles and being a sw engineer myself I can appreciate hoe difficult the documentation task is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are a few ways to do it, that's correct. I personally recommend flashing to stock 3588, using stock recovery. The reason why is because I feel it's the safest way to get back to 3588. nvflash is also a good way (and it's what I use) but some people feel indimidated by nvflash so I usually don't recommend it unless there's no other choice.
Btw, I already requested that the CM folks consider making a 1.2 version of CM7. My reasons:
1- It would avoid having new stock users doing a branch jump. Evidence seems to indicate that most new devices are being sold with 4349 (1.2 branch)
2- Minimizes soft-bricks
3- Allows them to also support other harmony devices such as the Adam, the Olipad and the Hannspad. These devices are also on this same 1.2 branch, with minor differences in their kernels because of the hardware.
Hopefully they will consider it and thus make this a non-issue for new users.
goodintentions said:
I just created a website called Viewsonic GTablet For Dummies. I'm slowly adding step by step instructions on how to do things for dummies.
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Great idea for a website! This clean, de-cluttered info is badly needed by all the newbies coming to the dev forums.
I do have one editorial suggestion for you (based on 30 years of IT customer service experience):
If there is anyway possible for a user to misunderstand simple instructions, some of them will do so. Many of these folks don't know anything at all about computers, desktop or tablets, other than how to read e-mail and web-surf. They just want to get their hot new G-tab to work like an I-pad.
Whenever your instructions refer to doing things on the PC (rather than on the G-tab) say so explicitly:
Part A - Connect to Computer Via USB in APX Mode
1. Using your PC, download the driver for USB connector here (clicky).
2. Unzip the USB zip file and place the folder somewhere easy for you to find. I suggest your PC's desktop.
Otherwise, half of them will download it to the G-tab, and then get all wrapped around the axle trying to figure out why it doesn't work, even though they are following your instructions exactly. After all, the name of the site is "...for Dummies," right? []
Again, great site!
Keep those "...for Dummies" instructions coming.
roebeet said:
1- It would avoid having new stock users doing a branch jump. Evidence seems to indicate that most new devices are being sold with 4349 (1.2 branch)
Hopefully they will consider it and thus make this a non-issue for new users.
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Hey thnx for taking the time to respond to my first post.
I'm not 100% set on CM7, it just appeared that would best suit my needs for a multimedia tablet.
As long as I can play embedded youtube and flash content, still play DVDs for the kiddies and have netflix working I'll try a 1.2 boot ROM. Does BC handle all of this? I am fine with one off hacks if required after the ROM is flashed. I also like the idea of HW acceleration, but that is not a top priority
*EDIT*
It appears there might be a CM7 option for a 1.2 bootloader that I didn't see.
The website is a great idea, goodintentions.
Suggestion:
Under the NVFlash tab, for people who are not complete dummies, you might consider adding the information that gTablets come with (at least) 2 different NAND-flash partitioning schemes (and it also looks like there are minor differences in the underlying hardware). This, of course, means links to the other nvflash zip file (*_46_*) that is supposed to be used for the newer gTablets.
Also, some of the latest gTablets--the ones that come with the 1.2 bootloader and the non-standard (new?) flash partitioning scheme--only work with the updated nvflash zip file that Roebeet created after he got the TnT update with the 1.2 bootloader.
I'm not a nvflash expert, and maybe you could get away with nvflashing bekit's original nvflash files onto every gTablet--thus restoring all of them to a "canonical" state--but, I'd like to know if this, in fact, is possible, and also correct.
ToadVine - thank you for the suggestion. I went back through and added in "using your pc" LOL.
Roebeet - I was actually thinking of telling them to do the stock recovery but then I thought it's best to get them to learn nvflash. Might as well kill 2 birds with 1 stone.
Mydave1 - I don't think it's gonna happen, since it's a separate site from xda.
Rajeevvp - I've been wondering about that version of nvflash. Is it really necessary? Why does the folder say "deprecated"?
goodintentions said:
I just created a website called Viewsonic GTablet For Dummies. I'm slowly adding step by step instructions on how to do things for dummies.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol, I thought it would have been a single page with a flashing "go get an iPad" all over it
Nicely done goodintentions, thank you for putting the hours in this.
If I can suggest, I would say a BL1.1<->BL1.2 for dummies would certainly be beneficial.
goodintentions said:
I just created a website called Viewsonic GTablet For Dummies. I'm slowly adding step by step instructions on how to do things for dummies.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great idea GI...
I'm surprised you didn't start with a disclaimer:
"This site is designed for those that bought a G-Tablet, knowing it's limitations and abilities. If you bought a G-Tablet becuase you wanted an iPad that would work right out of the box, and requires no thinking on your part to use , please do the rest of the G-Tablet community a favor and return it, save up, and buy an iPad, like you wanted to do initially. THIS IS NOT AN IPAD, AND NEVER WILL BE, ACCEPT THAT FACT BEFORE PROCEEDING."
I'm plagonna plagiarize ideas from you 2. Check my website in 10 minutes.
now that's what I expected...it's complete, now
makes me start thinking of a trouble shooting page...
For Flashing a Rom:
Part D (flashing a 1.2 ROM)
After backup is done, go back out and select "install zip from sdcard".
Choose "wipe data/factory reset".
Choose "wipe cache partition".
Once it's done, go back out to root menu and choose "advanced".
Choose "Wipe Dalvik Cache".
Go back out and choose "install zip from sdcard".
Go into folder "Rom" and choose the Rom that you picked from the list. Watch it install.
After ROM installation is complete, repeat steps 6 and 7 for the GAPPS file IF YOU NEED TO.
Once everything is done, go back out to root menu and choose "reboot system now".
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Click to collapse
Troubleshooting:
If your system does not boot into the new Rom, but you swear you followed all of the instructions above, please see the disclaimer page, as you are probably lying to yourself, and didn't actually follow ALL of the instructions.
If your system doesn't boot into the new rom, and you admit that you didn't follow the instructions completely, because you think that you are smarter than everyone else and can "skip a few unneeded steps," please see the disclaimer page
If the new rom is not doing everything you expect it to do, please refer to the specific rom's information page to see if what you expect is within it's abilities. If it's not, please refer to the disclaimer page
If you are having trouble finding the iTunes icon on your device, please see the disclaimer page
the worst part about this is that your website is designed specifically for people like me. I'm a dummy and damn proud of it. Prior to buying my G-Tablet, I had never heard of NVFlash, ADB, APX, CWM. I had no idea that Android 2.2 was designed specifically for phones. Hell, I almost bought a cheapo Chinese 7" tablet with Android 1.6 on it...what IS 1.6? "Popcorn, Pocket Lint" or something else retardedly cryptic?
All I knew, when buying it used on Ebay was that the screen was horrible, the stock Rom was a joke, and that it was relatively easy to mess with the software, or completely mess UP the software. I knew that it could run Flash (How you like them Apples?). I knew that I could use it for GPS, web browsing, reading books, playing stupid games, viewing PDFs and that there were drum machine apps...
Running BC, I can do all of the above, very well. I've installed launchers that make it a bit less "phony." and I've even impressed some iPad users that thought they had the best tablet on the market. I'm always being asked "What the hell is that?" And frankly, it's one of my favorite questions to answer...
I've had it for 1 month, and I'll admit, I still haven't tried NVFlashing anything yet. I've downloaded all the files necessary (to my PC, lol) but find that leaving well enough alone might be best for me, for now.
From the kernel section.
1. Using your PC, download appropriate kernel. Or you can just download it straight into your gtab. Should be in folder called "download".
2. Boot into CWM recovery.
3. Navigate to where the kernel zip file and select.
4. Watch it install into your gtab. Should take about 10 seconds.
5. Reboot and enjoy.
Between 4 and 5 should be "from the cwm home screen navigate to advance and then select wipe davlik cash." I believe both pershoot and clemsyn recommend doing this post new kernel flash.
P.s. The site looks good, you have been quite the busy beaver since last night.
I'll be the first to admit I'm a dummy, too.
I got my gtab months ago and had flashed in every rom in existent. Didn't even pay attention to the 1.1/1.2 thing until last week. Then a couple days ago I flashed in the honeycomb rom from a 1.1 rom and actually bricked my gtab for the first time. This was what I needed to push me to perform nvflash.
The reason a lot of people are intiminated by nvflash is because, frankly, all the instructions out there just seem too complicated.
Hopefully, my site is a bit more easy to understand.
I'm tentative to NVFlash because most softbrick threads contain the words "I tried NVFlashing... and now I'm stuck in APX boot loop" etc.
Here's another section you may want to include...but it may be to comprehensive for you to write and link to all the relevent pages, but a basic "known G-Tablet issues" page. Include stuff like the .nomedia fix for media files on the external SD card. I'm getting tired of people asking where their files went. Or the screen angles, occasional phantom audio static issues, the battery meter from hell issue (not charging to 100%, staying at 100%, etc)
It would just be nice to have a troubleshooting section for problems that are inherent with the G-Tablet itself, regardless of what Rom you are running. Everyone has the battery indicator issue, the audio static doesn't descriminate against any specific roms, and the .nomedia fix isn't a bad thing to have on every external SD card.
screen angles...yea, refer them to the disclaimer page, or the hundreds of product reviews that illustrate how terrible it is.
goodintentions said:
The reason a lot of people are intiminated by nvflash is because, frankly, all the instructions out there just seem too complicated.
Hopefully, my site is a bit more easy to understand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally true. I would read and read and I never feel like I had a good grasp on it until I finally just used it and realized its just program controlled by a batch file. Its easier than using a happy bake oven.
Mantara said:
Totally true. I would read and read and I never feel like I had a good grasp on it until I finally just used it and realized its just program controlled by a batch file. Its easier than using a happy bake oven.
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must be Canadian...we had "Easy Bake Ovens." As long as you're referring ot the devices that use the power of a 100 watt light bulb to make the worst tasting baked goods you've ever forced your parents to taste.
You think the Canucks will finish it out tonight? I'd like to see them win, but I'd prefer if it gets dragged out a bit. Now that the Miami Heat show is over, it would be nice if Hockey were the only relevent sport to discuss on Sports Center.
very impressive, keep up the good work!
Hey
Im kind of behind with Smartphones because I had a Samsung D500 for several years, it was only a few months ago I upgraded and got myself a HTC Desire HD on Contract. Ive been using it completly standard, with all the official software etc..
Im beginning to get quite bored of it now though and I still have like 1 and a half years left on my contract.
All I seem to do with the phone is... standard SMS texting, phone calls, facebook, twitter and check a couple of websites every now and then.
I have read around and hear things about "ROMS" and "ROOTS", but dont really know what that means.
Im just wondering, if you had this phone.. What would you do with it exactly?
Something to make it look/feel like a new phone maybe..... I duno
Just want some opinions, recommendations really
Thanks
Custom ROMs
A stock ROM is the version of the phone's operating system that comes with your phone when you buy it.
A custom ROM is a fully standalone version of the OS, including the kernel (which makes everything run), apps, services, etc - everything you need to operate the device, except it's customized by someone in some way.
So what does the "customized" part mean? Since Android is open source, developers are free to take stock ROMs, modify them, strip them of garbage, optimize them, add things, and pretty much do whatever their imagination and skills allow.
Custom ROMs are oftentimes faster, more efficient, and use less memory because:
- the developer ripped out useless garbage, such as carrier installed apps or
- the developer optimized the kernel. For example, an undervolted kernel can provide a much better battery life than the stock one.
You can upgrade to a version of the OS that has not yet been released for your device, or never will be. This is possible in 2 situations:
- A leaked version of the new ROM showed up online, and the developer got on it like the fat kid chasing an ice cream truck.
- A ROM from another phone was ported by the developer to work on yours. For example, G1 and MyTouch 3G users may never see Android 2.1 officially released on their phones, but Cyanogen, one of the most respected Android developers, was able to create a custom ROM running 2.1 for those devices.
ROOTING:
Getting root or rooting your phone is the process of modifying the operating system that shipped with your device to grant you complete control over it.
This means you can overcome limitations that the carriers and manufacturers put on your phone, extend system functionality, and even upgrade it to a custom flavor of Android.
The name root comes from the Linux operating system world, where the most privileged user on the system (otherwise known as Administrator on Windows) is called root.
You have access to alter any system files, use themes, change boot images, delete annoying stock apps, such as Sprint's NFL Mobile live and Nascar Sprint Cup Mobile, and other various native applications that might drive you crazy (Footprints, Voice Dialer, etc).
On most rooted Android devices, you can back up your entire system to an SD card, much in the same way you can image a hard drive. This is great if you’d like to try a new ROM, as you can back up your phone, wipe it completely, flash the new ROM, and if you don’t like it, just restore from your backup to get your device back to exactly how it was before you wiped it.
The easiest way to do this at the moment is by using ROM Manager.
ROM Manager allows you to easily flash a custom recovery image which is what you will need in order to backup and restore your phone. The recovery image is a special program that can be booted into outside of the phone's main operating system, sort of like an OS recovery console on a PC. By default, the recovery image on most Android phones only gives you a few options, mainly related to wiping the phone. Custom recovery images expand upon these options and usually include scripts that can do things like backup and restore your system, fix file permissions, or allow you to flash custom ROMs that the normal recovery image would otherwise reject.
Normally, flashing a custom recovery image requires some command line work, either on your PC, or on a terminal emulator directly on the phone, but Koush's ROM Manager should automatically flash his custom recovery image (known as ClockworkMod Recovery) for you, provided you're on one of the supported phones and that it is already rooted.
Using ROM Manager is pretty simple. Download and install the application from the market, fire it up, and you’ll be prompted to allow the application superuser permissions - make sure you approve it.
The first thing you’ll need to do is flash the ClockworkMod recovery image that I mentioned earlier, which can be done right in the app (it’s the first option). ROM Manager should automatically find the latest version of the right image for your phone, download, and install it - the whole process is seamless.
After that is done, you can simply use the ‘Manage and Restore Backups’, and ‘Backup current ROM’ options to, well, backup your current ROM or restore from an existing backup.
Rooting Guide for Desire HD
Desire HD ROMs
If you're bored with the look and feel of the phone then by all means customize it. Custom ROMs etc can help with that, or even just trying another Launcher like ADW EX. Make it a project to do something creative and artsy and then post your work here. Rooting will allow greater scope of what you can accomplish, like changing the system Fonts, for example.
Really though, if you're not interested in that kinda thing, i'd suggest just doing more of what the phones are designed for in the first place, which is running applications. Perhaps you might edit your OP to request a list of entertaining apps so that people can throw out suggestions?
A few time killers that i enjoy:
IMDb (For watching trailers and reading about movies)
Cracked Lite (Funny and informative articles)
Amazon Kindle (Reading books on the go)
Wimp.com (Fantastic collection of videos. Think of it as youtube's greatest hits)
Heya thanks for that reply
Well I am interested in a custom ROM, it sounds cool. Especially if it removes crap I dont need to save my battery life etc
Id like to try a new ROM, I had a go last night and installed ROM Manager but it said something about it couldnt find superuser and told me to google it lol, so I went to sleep
Now I am awake I am willing to give it a bash and would like to do it
Dont think Id be much use trying to do my own though,would rather use someone elses if Im allowed too? A very fast/power efficient/nicelooking/stable one etc.. Any you recommend?
Just doing that successfully would be a big enough project for myself as its my first time Heh
Before I go ahead and break my phone, are these instructions the correct ones for me?
Shall I do what this says to setup superuser?
pocketnow.com/android/how-to-root-your-htc-desire-hd
Sorry I just noticed you have a big massive link with a guide for rooting my phone lol
I am going to do that now then thanks
As for ROMS, for my phone, is:
[ROM] MIUI 1.9.16 v.1: Freshly Squeezed Edition™ 16/09/11
The main custom ROM for me?
Would you recommend that one, from that link you posted, that one seems to be the only main one I can see
Need abit of help, got visionary on my phone. Ticked box r/w after boot or whatever and then when I click on Temproot now, it says rooting device etc.... but then it just goes to a black screen and stays a black screen.
Is this normal or is something going wrong?
- Apparently the latest firmware doesnt allow Visionary to work. I need to downgrade to an earlier firmware? How do I do that lol
Or should I just give up and stop now?
You have to downgrade to Froyo 1.3.2 first. Follow this guide.
Here's a guide for rooting, ENG and Radio S-OFF, Flashing radio and ROM
Flashing a radio?
Um this sounds abit to risky actually for my first time.
So from what I understand is, I could successfully flash my chosen custom ROM but the radio signal for phone calls/SMS texting and stuff.... could not work ?
I dont think I want to take that risk now Ive read that
dont flash any radios the one you have will work fine also have a look around in the dev forums.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=765
Im quite happy with what Ive done, someone mentioned to do it earlier on in this topic and its basically all I wanted, just a fresh look
I changed the HTC Skin to Slate, and then used the GO Launcher and using a green + black theme, done abit of customizing. Before all this I did a hard reset on the phone too, and using JuiceDefender. I like it, happy with it, feels fresh
Thanks for all the help and advice though I do appreciate