Yes, this guide is outdated a bit. I lost my job and in between school, 3 kids, and writing resumes, I do not have the time to do the proper research and update this. I apologize for my desertion, however, if anyone would like to take it over, feel free to copy/paste the contents of this post and repost, update, and request a sticky from the mods.
Disclaimer
If you have an LG P999 (Not the P990!) you should not brick while using this guide. If you do happen to brick your device, I will not accept responsibility for it. Nor will I support you. There is more than enough information in our section to fully troubleshoot almost any known problem. If I link to a thread, please read AT LEAST the original post (OP) in its entirety before taking the steps it contains. If a method I linked does not work, please let me know. I don’t have the time to read every post on every thread on every section.
This guide is for Windows users only. If you are on a Mac or Linux box, there may be ways of doing this, but I don’t have any way of testing it. You’re on your own.
Purpose
So you just got the LG P999 (T-Mobile G2x or Wind O2x) or you’ve had it for a while and finally decided to root it. This is an updated step-by-step guide on what you need to do in order to unleash your device.
Credit
Thank you to all of the developers and scripters out there. I didn’t do any of the work and I claim no rights to anything linked in this guide.
Thanks to:
KiNG OMaR
jboxer
Volk
kairi_zeroblade
Mr Rusty
phburks
All the other people who contributed to all of these methods.
Anyone who spends their free time coding, modding, troubleshooting, helping, and a special thanks to anyone who does his or her research.
General Information
This guide assumes you’ve had your phone long enough to have gotten T-Mobile’s 2.3.3 Gingerbread update by now. If you’re on 2.2.2 Froyo, search on how to update to 2.3.3 Gingerbread as it will upgrade (maybe?) your radio as well.
If you are an advanced user and coming from a different phone and are used to different practices, let me break it down for you. The bootloader and radio are already unlocked (or S-OFF, if you will). There are only 2 radios which may actually be exactly the same, but they are not flashable zips. All ROMs are compatible with either radio.
All links are tested and up-to-date as of 11 April 2012.
Step 1: CWM
Install ClockworkMod Recovery (CWM) via NVFlash. This should always be your first step no matter what you intend to do with your device. Installing CWM will allow you to flash roms, kernels, etc., as well as recover from minor bricks or bad flashes. DO NOT install CWM via Rom Manager. The following thread will help you install NVidia's APX drivers and flash CWM via NVFlash:
[RECOVERY]CWM-Based Recovery 5.0.2.8 For P999(Internal & External SD)
After completing this step, you will be able to access CWM at any time from a power off state by holding the Power and Volume Down buttons until the white “LG” logo goes away and the blue “LG” logo appears. Release the buttons when you see the blue "LG" logo and wait for the CWM menu to pop up. I recommend at this point that you test it out to make sure it works and that you perform a backup with CWM. Once backed up, copy it to your computer, burn it to a CD, archive it on your tape drive, whatever. It’s just good practice to keep these things in case someone’s link goes down and you really needed that file to return to stock.
Step 2: Decision
Here, you will make a decision:
Are there any apps that you need to save your progress in (for example, Angry Birds scores, etc.) and can’t simply be reinstalled?
If no, skip to Step 4: Flash
If yes, proceed with Step 3: Root
Step 3: Root & Backup
I know, I know. There are apps that can backup your angry birds scores and all that, but this makes reinstalling all of your apps easier. First, you need to download an app to backup your apps. Titanium Backup is my favorite. The price tag seems a little high at first glance, but it’s worth it, especially if you plan on doing this to other phones in the future. Download Titanium Backup from the market, and purchase the PRO key. If you want to go the cheap route, there are alternatives. Next, we need root access. Achieve this by following this post:
[ROOT] G2X Gingerbread 2.3.3. stock ROM with flashable zip in Clockworkmod Recovery
You have a rooted phone and Titanium Backup now. Open Titanium Backup and allow it root access. Press menu, then “batch” and backup user apps only. Never backup system data. You will only get yelled at when people find out that you backup system data.
Step 4: Wipe & Flash
Select a ROM. There are many to choose from (stock Gingerbread, AOSP-based Gingerbread, AOSP-based Ice Cream Sandwich, MIUI). If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, flash one from each category and play with it for 30 minutes to make a final decision. Please read the OP for the ROM you are flashing and follow their directions. If it is not based on the stock ROM, you will need to flash a zip that contains Google’s Apps (gapps). Read your ROM’s OP for the details on this.
When you flash a new ROM, at a minimum, perform the “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” in CWM just prior to flashing the ROM. This will clear old data and cache. I recommend using:
[TOOL] G2x Nullifier [UPDATED!] 26 March Cache only Nullifier!
The dual wipe nullifier is in my opinion, not needed. Single wipe will be fine. Keep in mind, once you nullify, you need to flash a ROM immediately after you nullify! If you reboot after nullifying, you have a soft-brick that should be recoverable, but that’s extra grief you don’t need. So, again, make sure you have a ROM ready to flash on your SD card BEFORE you use the Nullifier.
Step 5: Restore & Enjoy
If you backed up your apps in Step 3: Root & Backup, open up the Market and redownload Titanium Backup and the PRO key (or whatever cheap alternative you decide on) and start it up, granting root access. Press menu, “batch” and restore missing apps with data.
All done! If you want to underclock or overclock or flash kernels, you need to read up on it. They will not be included in this guide.
I am open to *constructive* feedback. If your feedback is “this guide sucks,” move on. I don’t need you here. If you have a legitimate problem with the contents and maybe a suggestion on how to fix it, by all means, let me know. I know there are a couple guides out there, but some are outdated. Just putting a fresh one up for those just joining the game.
I don’t ask for donations. Save them for the people who do the real work. If I helped you out, just hit the thanks button.
Very simple and easy guide, nicley done
Sent from my LG-P999 using xda premium
Awesome Guide. I was thinking of doing something like that for noobs like me. You can include OC/UV guide from Klatmon
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1558080
Its a great guide. Plus you will have a complete G2x guide for dummies after this as Step 6 (optional) .
Great guide, only issue is in step 3 you say to gain root. The way we gain root is to flash a rom that already has it. I would recommend backing up data before that point us possible (i don't remember if backup apps can be run without root)
And, you might want to link to http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=24087341 thread for the cwm flashing, it's one file to download and one thing to run, helluva lot simpler for a first timer
Also, pm a mod and ask if you can get this stickied. We need something like this up top
Sent from my LG-P999 using Tapatalk 2
cricketAC said:
Awesome Guide. I was thinking of doing something like that for noobs like me. You can include OC/UV guide from Klatmon
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1558080
Its a great guide. Plus you will have a complete G2x guide for dummies after this as Step 6 (optional) .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, my original thought was that the oc/uv guide was a little advanced for the level of the guide. I think I will add it though, thanks for the tip!
Klathmon said:
Great guide, only issue is in step 3 you say to gain root. The way we gain root is to flash a rom that already has it. I would recommend backing up data before that point us possible (i don't remember if backup apps can be run without root)
And, you might want to link to http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=24087341 thread for the cwm flashing, it's one file to download and one thing to run, helluva lot simpler for a first timer
Also, pm a mod and ask if you can get this stickied. We need something like this up top
Sent from my LG-P999 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The root method I linked to is merely a flashable zip with superuser. It keeps the current rom but adds root access so that people can back up their stuff prior to flashing.
I will add the easy flash for cwm for sure though. Thanks for the feedback!
r4d14n7 said:
Yeah, my original thought was that the oc/uv guide was a little advanced for the level of the guide. I think I will add it though, thanks for the tip!
The root method I linked to is merely a flashable zip with superuser. It keeps the current rom but adds root access so that people can back up their stuff prior to flashing.
I will add the easy flash for cwm for sure though. Thanks for the feedback!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol my bad i didnt even read the link
Sent from my LG-P999 using Tapatalk 2
Don't we also have the option to create an update.zip from TBuPRO to reinstall all previous apps from within recovery??? I have read about it but never done it. And thanks for this great tut.
harrytorta said:
Don't we also have the option to create an update.zip from TBuPRO to reinstall all previous apps from within recovery??? I have read about it but never done it. And thanks for this great tut.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i would highly advise against this...
doing that across roms of the same version is risky, doing it across roms of different versions is down-right mad. it just plops them back into the rom pre-installed with data and everything, bad bad bad idea.
I tried searching about it on google but found nothing so thanks for the reply. Kinda sucks that it would muck with things though :\
I've never done it either. It's tempting to "flash" your old apps back over, especially with the amount of time it takes for Titanium Backup to run, but as Klathmon stated, it's probably a bad idea. Patience is a virtue, I suppose.
Very easy guide for noobs like me, I have a problem my phone shows p999 in about phone and its have a logo of videotron. but the sticker at the back cover shows p990 :S should i go with p999 method ??
Hasooboy said:
Very easy guide for noobs like me, I have a problem my phone shows p999 in about phone and its have a logo of videotron. but the sticker at the back cover shows p990 :S should i go with p999 method ??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's an interesting situation. I would install the LGMobile Support Tool and see what model it says you have. If I had to *guess* it's a P999 but you should definitely contact one of the other Videotron users and ask them. That is beyond my scope of knowledge, so proceed with caution!
r4d14n7 said:
That's an interesting situation. I would install the LGMobile Support Tool and see what model it says you have. If I had to *guess* it's a P999 but you should definitely contact one of the other Videotron users and ask them. That is beyond my scope of knowledge, so proceed with caution!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have connect my phone with Lg software update its detect as p999dw and proceed towards the update process after Update process my phones become T mobile G2X which was videotorn earlier I am thinking of making new thread with all the information i have along with snap shoot
Hasooboy said:
I have connect my phone with Lg software update its detect as p999dw and proceed towards the update process after Update process my phones become T mobile G2X which was videotorn earlier I am thinking of making new thread with all the information i have along with snap shoot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, enjoy your new G2x. haha...
Always nice to give back to the community! Give it a shot! I haven't seen much Videotron stuff here yet, just T-Mobile and Wind.
r4d14n7 said:
Yeah, enjoy your new G2x. haha...
Always nice to give back to the community! Give it a shot! I haven't seen much Videotron stuff here yet, just T-Mobile and Wind.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One more thing i just want to know what happen if i install CWM of p999 which its is most probably then what happened if its p990 :S
Thanks!
Easy to follow, thanks alot!
Good guide, one additional section would be a general overview of ICS-based vs GB-based ROMs, advantages of ICS are latest Android OS, but downside is non-working binary drivers for video camera & playback & uses more memory for OS. GB is more functional & stable, but older-style.
Great Guide!!!!!:
thanks for this amazing guide. Works perfectly without any problems.
Hasooboy said:
I have connect my phone with Lg software update its detect as p999dw and proceed towards the update process after Update process my phones become T mobile G2X which was videotorn earlier I am thinking of making new thread with all the information i have along with snap shoot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol i wish i had you're problem. If my phone was doing that i'd have no issue what so ever getting the march 2012 baseband
Related
So I waited for the GB update and I like it but I think it is time to root this phone. I want to stress that I have had this phone since a little bit after it came out about two weeks after and it has run like a champ from day 1. No problems at all so when I updated to gb it was actually a downgrade in some ways like the camera but I definitly like gb because of the text editing but I havent noticed any improvement in battery life or speed or signal or GPS but All thouse things were great before and they are great now.
So I am running GB 2.3.3 withthe july 15 baseband and kernel 2.6.32.9 and I know it is different to root but I dont fully uinderstand it so if someone can post a detailed guide with as much explanation as possible so I understand what I am doing I would greatly appriciate it. I assume you cant get NV flasher from the market (I Havent looked) and what is cwm or cmw and if I flash a new rom will I loose the new baseband? Or can I get root permissions and keep stock GB? Tahnk you for all your help
First read the sticky at the top of the Android Development page. That sticky basically explains everything you will need to know, step by step.
In summary though....
Step 1 - NVFlash (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1056847)
Step 2 - Download Xboarders Rooted OTA.zip (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1179748)
Step 3 - Boot into Clockwork Recovery
Step 4 - Install Zip from SD Card - the Zip you downloaded above
Voila you have rooted GB 2.3.3 with new baseband.
An alternative that I would suggest would be Eaglesblood 1.06 GB 2.3.3 though, smoothest ROM on the boards IMO and based on GB 2.3.3
jabhome said:
An alternative that I would suggest would be Eaglesblood 1.06 GB 2.3.3 though, smoothest ROM on the boards IMO and based on GB 2.3.3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried both Roms and I would have to sway that Xboarder's Tweaked Rom is the best GB update 2.3.3 Rom.
pdxmatts said:
I've tried both Roms and I would have to sway that Xboarder's Tweaked Rom is the best GB update 2.3.3 Rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did not try Xboarders tweaked, maybe I will give it a try.
Does swype work on that rom as phone just took a dump with swype beta. First reboot in over two months just now.
Sent from my LG-P999 using Tapatalk
Follow the advice above. I flashed a rom for the first time today.
Does the Netflix app work on xboarder's rom? I'm having issues with HDMI on CM7 going out about every 5 minutes but coming right back. I really need the netflix app for travel.
+1 on xboarders. Runs smooth and has all of the stock features
Sent from my LG-P999
thanks guys that was what I thought. So it really is that easy? What actually gives it the root? is it the xboarders rom? I am going to ask alot of questions because I want to understand how it actually works so please bear with me. It sounds like it actually got easir to root with this update no? It seems like NVflash is a app or program that lets me put the rom on my sim card should I go internal or external? I have a whole bunch of external cards with diffewrent capacitys and the one i use now is 16 gig. Then clockwork recovery is a program that is already on the dvice I dont know if it is part of android or what but it is alrady there right? It lets me choose wether I want to recover or make a backup of roms or install new ones correct? Then when I put the tweeked rom on it has something in it hat roots the phone magically.
Please let me know what I am right about and what I am not right about and give me the correct answers because I really want to know I am a nosey motherfer
Charlie
So According to the thread in this forum titles "how to get the new baseband" the rooted version of the new rom does not contain the new baseband. Or is that the leaked gingerbread that came out a few months ago way before the update came out? He is not talking about xboarders rom right? If I do what was suggested here I will in fact have the new baseband and 2.3.3 rooted right?
Charlie
correct
mojorisin7178 said:
So According to the thread in this forum titles "how to get the new baseband" the rooted version of the new rom does not contain the new baseband. Or is that the leaked gingerbread that came out a few months ago way before the update came out? He is not talking about xboarders rom right? If I do what was suggested here I will in fact have the new baseband and 2.3.3 rooted right?
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have the new baseband now no roms will change that.
The roms do not include the baseband .
mojorisin7178 said:
thanks guys that was what I thought. So it really is that easy? What actually gives it the root? is it the xboarders rom? I am going to ask alot of questions because I want to understand how it actually works so please bear with me. It sounds like it actually got easir to root with this update no? It seems like NVflash is a app or program that lets me put the rom on my sim card should I go internal or external? I have a whole bunch of external cards with diffewrent capacitys and the one i use now is 16 gig. Then clockwork recovery is a program that is already on the dvice I dont know if it is part of android or what but it is alrady there right? It lets me choose wether I want to recover or make a backup of roms or install new ones correct? Then when I put the tweeked rom on it has something in it hat roots the phone magically.
Please let me know what I am right about and what I am not right about and give me the correct answers because I really want to know I am a nosey motherfer
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I flash from my external SD Card. You just need to decide where you want to install from, and then make sure you set up NVFlash with the correct support, external or internal.
Not sure of the exact terminology, but I think the procedure itself would be called to NVFlash ClockworkMod. NVFlash is the procedure to install CWM, while CWM is the program that you will run via Volume Down + Power when you boot up. CWM 4.0.0.2 will boot up and from there you will be able to flash roms, backup and restore Nandroids.
Ah that makes sense Now I see CWM stands for Clock work mod. See I was thinking CWM is a rom I actually thought it stood for cyogen mod I just couldnt figure out the W. So when I flash CWM it contains the root permissions already is that how it works?
So I should use nvflash to install cwm then I should probally make a backup of my stock rom. Also If I just install or flash CWM and not flash a new rom then Will my phone be rooted stock? or do I have to flash the xborders rom to gain root?
Thanks alot guys
Charlie
mojorisin7178 said:
Ah that makes sense Now I see CWM stands for Clock work mod. See I was thinking CWM is a rom I actually thought it stood for cyogen mod I just couldnt figure out the W. So when I flash CWM it contains the root permissions already is that how it works?
So I should use nvflash to install cwm then I should probally make a backup of my stock rom. Also If I just install or flash CWM and not flash a new rom then Will my phone be rooted stock? or do I have to flash the xborders rom to gain root?
Thanks alot guys
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CWM doesn't "contain" root permissions, it just allows you to flash any ROM into the phone, rooted or otherwise. The Xboarder ROM is pre-rooted, along with most of the others.
THANK YOU!
I too am a noob and was a little confused. I'd search the forums and come up with too much info. Plus, some terms used on this forum are slightly overloaded (in the C++ context) from the classic meanings, like "ROM" and "baseband". Those terms as used here do not mean exactly what they meant 20 years ago.
I'm sure I need to read more on app dev (but I have too many hobbies already), but I'm confused about the layers of s/w. As a noob, I would think the layers would be BIOS or maybe BSP, Linux, Android. So I don't understand:
1) where does the clockwork mod fit within the layers?
1a) nvdia nvflash installs new drivers in the Linux layer?
2) what is contained in the ROM image? A new version of Linux, andriod, nvdia drivers, baseband?
3) Is there a BIOS/BSP, or is all register access done in Linux drivers?
I'm not looking for a developers level answer to these questions, more of the readers digest version of the answers.
Since I'm having black screen of death (I believe referred to here as "SOD"), on two phones, I'd like to understand more, to figure out if this problem is h/w or s/w. I am definitely leaning towards s/w problems and my wife and I would love to keep these phones.
Thanks again.
-Bob
mojorisin7178 said:
Ah that makes sense Now I see CWM stands for Clock work mod. See I was thinking CWM is a rom I actually thought it stood for cyogen mod I just couldnt figure out the W. So when I flash CWM it contains the root permissions already is that how it works?
So I should use nvflash to install cwm then I should probally make a backup of my stock rom. Also If I just install or flash CWM and not flash a new rom then Will my phone be rooted stock? or do I have to flash the xborders rom to gain root?
Thanks alot guys
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Continuing off of what Spyvie said, you do need to flash xboarder's rom to gain root, (more like repeating what he said). As for nvflash, this should make things a bit easier. tgagunman made a nice one click feature that if you follow the directions, should be easier to follow. You will get clockwork mod recovery, it will be nvflashed, but it's a lot easier for a non-techie to use.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1056847
I want to thank everyone who chimed in you guys have been really good to me Bob has some really good questions also and I hope this thread can help you out bob. That is why I started this thread for people like me who are really good with computers and like to mess around but don't quite understand phones. Every time something goes wrong with my PC I go to the forums and I fix it myself then I feel good. (And I have had some real disasters on my PC I have come back from)
Anyway I will be doing this procedure soon as I feel confident that I can do it and I see there is a fix for unbricking phones. One last question before I hit the green light: Can it be unrooted just in case I have to send it back for warantey issues and can CWM be uninstalled? I suspect that since the ROM is pre-rooted that all I would have to do is format and install my original ROM then uninstall CWM is that on point or no? And Again THANKS TO ALL WHO CHIME IN WITH THE ANSWERS AND I WOULD LIKE TO INVITE OTHERS TO CHIME IN WITH THERE QUESTIONS.
Charlie
Okay so I checked out the links. So I gather that step 1 has to be skipped now because super1click does not work. So we can just NVflash CWM which looks easy enough. Now I have winzip on my computer will that work for extracting .rar files? I am pretty sure it will but I want to make sure. And I am going to shut off user control permissions and I use MS security essentials for my Anti virus so I am thinking of shutting that off for this procedure would that be a wise thing and is there anything else that I should do. I am not a computer expert but I am not a idiot either I am just inexperienced. Thank you guys
Charlie
mojorisin7178 said:
Can it be unrooted just in case I have to send it back for warantey issues and can CWM be uninstalled?
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can restore you Nandroid of the preroot OTA, or you can unroot with the unroot zip that Xboarder provided in his link.
mojorisin7178 said:
Okay so I checked out the links. So I gather that step 1 has to be skipped now because super1click does not work. So we can just NVflash CWM which looks easy enough. Now I have winzip on my computer will that work for extracting .rar files? I am pretty sure it will but I want to make sure. And I am going to shut off user control permissions and I use MS security essentials for my Anti virus so I am thinking of shutting that off for this procedure would that be a wise thing and is there anything else that I should do. I am not a computer expert but I am not a idiot either I am just inexperienced. Thank you guys
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no, there is nothing else you need to do to your computer. The link provided by the brother above (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1056847) is where you need to be. Skip the one click root and go straight to NV flash. It will guide you through installing the nvidia drivers you need. TGA_Gunnman has is laid out really nice and easy to follow and the program he put together (one click clm recovery nv flasher) is really simple to understand and use. he also has another post out there (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1060715) that is also helpfull. Once you get nv flash done make sure you copy the rom you want on your sd card. IMO Xboarders is very nice and smooth. You will hold down volume down and power together until you see the android screen. Then in the menu use vol keys to move to backup and restore and use power to select. Then move to yes and run the backup. then you can wipe data/factory restore. Then wipe cache. Then go to advanced and wipe dalvic and batt stats. Then go back to "choose zip from sd" and find your rom zip and select it. It will run for a while and tell you when its done, Then go to advanced again and fix permission. After that just go to reboot option and let it reboot. It may take a little longer the first time, just let it go. When it reboots you will have a rooted 2.3.3 with the new baseband you just updated to. After that go to the market and get Titanium Backup and run a backup of all your apps and data. From there your pretty much good to start flashing away. Have fun, Good luck
Hello, XDA! and, even though we haven't met yet, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE STUFF ON MY PHONE!!!!!! This is my first, and dreaded post.
I'm new to smartphones. My first was an iSUCK 3g. Now, I have the SGS4G! I'm totally new to this wprld, and every day, I'm being blown away by something new. Anyways, I have read two guides on this site already, but I'm still suffering from a little confusion. I think my problem comes from when I first rooted my phone. I was in a hurry to root it, because I needed to unlock the carrier permissions, so I could use my ATT sim. I hadn't found this site yet, sadly. I had tried a few things, to no avail, until I came across a you-tube video with some kid showing me how it's done, and other littler kids screaming in the background. Following the video step, by step, got it done, but he failed to go over, and explain what we were actually doing. Now, I don't know what ROM I have, or what kernel. It's not a big issue, because this phone now totally blows me away, especially the launchers.
I really enjoy this phone over the iSucks, becuase I like computers, and I'm more tech savvy than most. Perhaps that's where more of my confusion comes from... the terminology. So, on to the issue:
My RAM seems to run unusually high! with the GOtskmanager, it's always clocking between %72 - %79. I got RAM Manager Pro, which sometimes brings me down to %65 - %69, but it usually doesn't last long. I think I have it nailed down. I think it comes from certain apps that seem to run themselves. I have auto sync off, and I've DONE MY RESEARCH (some of which, I've yet to comprehend) I know not to use a task killer to routinely kill apps, and I know how the OS works, and allocates its RAM. So, I won't even worry about it if someone says these levels are normal.
Any tips on what I should do with my new phone? I saw a video that I can't find again, where this guy had his homescreen set up in such away, that the apps made this 3d cube of tiny boxes (apps) that moved like a rubik's cube. HOW DO I DO THAT!? It's not in any of the launchers I've tried. Anyways, thank you once again, XDA, you guys are awesome. I'm just a newb. Thank you to the users who made the guides!!
Ram is at 84% right now, NOT DOING ANYTHING!
Look at my guide that i have linked in my sig and read through the second post to find a custom rom that you like (i suggest Valhalla Black) and my guide tells you how to flash it. If you have questions, feel free to ask in the guide thread or pm me
And I believe the 3d cubes are part of SPB Shell launcher
Sent from my SGH-T959V using xda premium
Thank you Julz! I have read your guide thoroughly. I know to search, and research before asking questions. Like I said, I'm just slightly still confused. Did I not put a custom ROM on my phone when I rooted it?
Do I have to factory restore, or uninstall the current ROM in some way before getting another?
Also, I think I fixed the RAM issue. What is normal levels for my device? I can't find normal RAM levels listed anywhere on the net for my device.
Read the first link in my signature as an addition to Juls' guide. After rooting GB you need a custom kernel. Look for SGS Kernel Flasher in either guide to take your next step.
I think you should research more. But to help you a bit...
How you rooted your phone? You know about ClockWorkMod Recovery? Know about Odin or Heimdall?
Also, there is a section in Setting that tells a lot of your phone that is called About Phone.
chris31jct said:
I think you should research more. But to help you a bit...
How you rooted your phone? You know about ClockWorkMod Recovery? Know about Odin or Heimdall?
Also, there is a section in Setting that tells a lot of your phone that is called About Phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Firmware: 2.3.6
Baseband: TE59VUVKJ6
Kernel: 2.6.35.7-sms-kj6-vo.1.0+
Build: GINGERBREAD.VUVKJ6
I used Heimdall to do this, as per the video guide I followed. I just downloaded Odin, for future tasks. I love the Norse theme to this stuff, I know the Eddas practically by heart, as well as the elder Futhark, and actual history of the ancient Scandanavian Vikings.
Be sure to keep your ODIN and Heimdall ports seperate. You can get by with CWM for custom ROM's now except to recover or clean your phone up. Read the Gremlin Remover thread to consider using after a custom ROM flash or two. Your other option is KJ6 Heimdall One-Click.
lumin30 said:
Be sure to keep your ODIN and Heimdall ports seperate. You can get by with CWM for custom ROM's now except to recover or clean your phone up. Read the Gremlin Remover thread to consider using after a custom ROM flash or two. Your other option is KJ6 Heimdall One-Click.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much for the tip. Advice heeded! Now, do you know anything about my ram? Why my Go Task mnger is always reading that my RAM is almost always above 70% used?
Read the guide I mentioned above. Get on a custom ROM. Then look at RAM. You are on stock bloated ROM at the moment.
lumin30 said:
Read the guide I mentioned above. Get on a custom ROM. Then look at RAM. You are on stock bloated ROM at the moment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've read the guides, the only thing I don't understand about that process, is that, will I need to set up all my apps again, am I starting my phone from scratch? Which ROM would you personally suggest?
When I'm using a custom ROM, am I restricted in any way? Can I still use the market?
Did you read the guide in the first link in my signature as suggested above?
It is best to start fresh when flashing a new ROM. A lot of apps have back up features within the app for settings and such (i.e. GoLauncher).
I recommend Valhalla Black. But all the 2.3.6 ROM's are great.
No restrictions. Except maybe watching movies in the market on rooted devices.
lumin30 said:
Did you read the guide in the first link in my signature as suggested above?
It is best to start fresh when flashing a new ROM. A lot of apps have back up features within the app for settings and such (i.e. GoLauncher).
I recommend Valhalla Black. But all the 2.3.6 ROM's are great.
No restrictions. Except maybe watching movies in the market on rooted devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't read that guide, becuase I'm not on Froyo
Read it.
One more thing. You say start from scratch... Factory Reset? So I will need to root again? Also, I had to unlock the phone to use with ATT. Will I have to do that again?
I mean with your apps. Factory reset won't unroot you. It isn't a bad idea to do a factory reset between flashings as a precautionary measure.
You shouldn't have to unlock again either.
Wodensman said:
Also, I had to unlock the phone to use with ATT. Will I have to do that again?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on ATT as well and flash my phone all the time. I've never lost the unlock.
My brother, thank you so very much for the info! I have been reading the guide you mentioned, and now I know why. 2 guides in there! I can't thank you enough, I've hit thanks on all your replies here, because little by little, you're really helping my understanding of it all. It must be frustrating trying to help people like myself! Thanks for trying to push this stuff through my thick head! However, I've encountered another problem, following your guide:
Trying to back up my efs folder, using Astro File Manager... says it cannot do it! I guess this means I need something that requests superuser permissions?
Any program you would recommend? or can I just do it manually with my computer, like save it on my comp or something?
I recommend starting where it talks about SGS Kernel Flasher. Then once you have the custom kernel with CWM - do and nandroid back up and save the nandroid back up on your computer for safe keeping. That will have your efs folder within it. And I recommended Super Manager
And flash this kernel -
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=25115050&postcount=1
I guess the kernel I have, doesn't have CWM. So, if I flash a new one, do I need to delete the one I have first or anything? Or just go about flashing a new one, like I never did one in the first place? I can try to find the video guide I followed if you think it will help.
Hi,
So I think this thread is pretty common to most other phones, but I couldn't really find a stickied one or anything of the sorts? After using the search function to the best of my ability, I would like to begin a thread on what's most important after rooting.
From what I understand, Supersu and BusyBox are a must (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1709296&highlight=no+such+file+or+directory)
Then, I went to remove the animation and music from startup (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1645818&highlight=
remove+startup&page=2)
Last, I attempted this but I don't know if it actually works. This one-click tether tool has me guessing at its methodologies, but it seems to be working at the moment so I am happy? Haven't actually tested it, but here is link I used: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1677261
Debranding seems like a great idea! http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1634171 (edit1)
Unlocking bootloader, taken from the huge index of guides, but specifically this one. (edit2)
Getting TWRP, from their website: I used the automated one because I tried downloading and launching with no luck. Backing up currently, very easy through Goo Manager; all I did was click "boot to recovery" or whatever from the main page of the app. (edit3)
Here is how to disable software update/upgrade and generally protect yourself from AT&T updating your phone (don't know how to describe it) (edit4)
I humbly submit all the knowledge I have of my phone to the rest of the users. My technical experience is limited, am scared of recommended bootloader unlocks, but am willing to help bundle for newbies like me.
And thank you devs and mods for making this all come together!
(edit1) Because I was looking in the wrong section, I found this thread about the post I made later. Hopefully someone can learn from my mistake? For mod, should this be placed into Q&A at this point? Thanks!
(edit2) Having lots of fun just exploring what other people have recommended me do. So far, got root access and unlocked bootloader, am in the process of getting the "flash recovery" or something to that extent? Unsure of how much more research I should do before continuing to dive in! Thanks for all the input, will keep updating if only to provide log for myself, hoping that some users will find this helpful still
(edit3) Found time to play with TWRP! Really want to get the Sense 4.1 stuff, but scared!
(edit4) Forgot to update with the old post I found to work around the system update thing.
(edit5) useful thread I'm reading through for more information on odex/deodex, am about to update again soon so that I can explore roms and the such!
nutnub said:
Hi,
So I think this thread is pretty common to most other phones, but I couldn't really find a stickied one or anything of the sorts? After using the search function to the best of my ability, I would like to begin a thread on what's most important after rooting.
From what I understand, Supersu and BusyBox are a must (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1709296&highlight=no+such+file+or+directory)
Then, I went to remove the animation and music from startup (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1645818&highlight=
remove+startup&page=2)
Last, I attempted this but I don't know if it actually works. This one-click tether tool has me guessing at its methodologies, but it seems to be working at the moment so I am happy? Haven't actually tested it, but here is link I used: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1677261
Request: if someone could divulge how to remove the annoying Software Update message/prompt, I would be much obliged
I humbly submit all the knowledge I have of my phone to the rest of the users. My technical experience is limited, am scared of recommended bootloader unlocks, but am willing to help bundle for newbies like me.
And thank you devs and mods for making this all come together!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Guessing you have AT&T HOX and you rooted it, next steps are explained here - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1671237 ....
Have fun
Sent from my SGH-I777 using Tapatalk 2
if your on att, use the link above my post. you want to go in this order.
root>super cid>unlock bootloader>flash recovery>make backup>save Sd card contents to PC>flash a rom "optional"
frozen at system update
XsMagical said:
if your on att, use the link above my post. you want to go in this order.
root>super cid>unlock bootloader>flash recovery>make backup>save Sd card contents to PC>flash a rom "optional"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in a little bit of a pickle because I left my phone alone and luckily when I came back, I stopped the system update download at about 50%. So I'm paranoid to turn on any radio function. Would you happen to know if the methods you used above will disable the system update (permanently)?
As soon as I can get off this dilemma, I do want to try to unlock the bootloader, though it is a bit intimidating to realize that I could break my warranty if I fail...
Thanks in advance! Learning lots from this grand adventure with my AT&T HOX
Do a factory reset for now then run setup, after that go to system updates and uncheck, auto update or what ever it says. That will hold you off for now
Sent from my Nocturnal'd ONE XL Running Sense 4.1
If your rooted, use a file manager, go to the /cache folder and delete the chunk of the ota that downloaded, then untick sys. Updates in settings. Just a 2nd method.
if your rooted iI would do a factory reset and then use the one click unlock bootloader method to unlock the bootloader. then from the play store download Goo manager and from there flash the twrp recovery and finally flash a custom roms i recommend the nocturnal rom
edit3
XsMagical said:
if your on att, use the link above my post. you want to go in this order.
root>super cid>unlock bootloader>flash recovery>make backup>save Sd card contents to PC>flash a rom "optional"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
kt086 said:
if your rooted iI would do a factory reset and then use the one click unlock bootloader method to unlock the bootloader. then from the play store download Goo manager and from there flash the twrp recovery and finally flash a custom roms i recommend the nocturnal rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can either of you point me to where to figure out all these rom things? To be honest, I just want to ask you guys straight out but I feel that's disrespectful to all the knowledge you have. I'm seeking more information about how the flashing thing works, whether it wipes everything outside of my twrp backup and/or whether they're exclusive to anything to that effect. Specifically, I'm debating between "[ROM][8/3] - Stock Rooted AT&T 2.20.502.7 - Android 4.0.4 - Odex or De-Odex", "[ROM][AT&T][08/18/12][2.29.207.1]Sandstorm_v2.1", and "[ROM][8/17] Stock Rooted 2.29.207.1 - Sense 4.1! o2 German Carrier!"
Any place that you can point me in the right direction would help me (and other readers for this post). Thanks again so much!
nutnub said:
Can either of you point me to where to figure out all these rom things? To be honest, I just want to ask you guys straight out but I feel that's disrespectful to all the knowledge you have. I'm seeking more information about how the flashing thing works, whether it wipes everything outside of my twrp backup and/or whether they're exclusive to anything to that effect. Specifically, I'm debating between "[ROM][8/3] - Stock Rooted AT&T 2.20.502.7 - Android 4.0.4 - Odex or De-Odex", "[ROM][AT&T][08/18/12][2.29.207.1]Sandstorm_v2.1", and "[ROM][8/17] op Stock Rooted 2.29.207.1 - Sense 4.1! o2 German Carrier!"
Any place that you can point me in the right direction would help me (and other readers for this post). Thanks again so much!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
XDA is not a help site, and we don't encourage members to create help threads just to get someone else to show you, what you could have looked up yourself. The answers are there, if you put some effort into it. This is the wrong section, btw.
Thread Closed
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice"
Sent from my HTC One X, using XDA Premium.
My T-Mobile phone is this one:
model number: SGH-T959V
firmware: 2.2.1
kernel version 2.6.32.9
build number: FROYO.VUVKD1
My T959V is already unlocked but not rooted. Can I use superoneclick to root it? Everything I have read on this forum refers to FROYO.UVKJ6 - not my version. I want to start slowly with modding, and learn to walk before I run. Assumptions can prove dangerous when modding these Androids. Thanks in advance!
sveris
Yes, you can root with super one click.
Or, you could flash a new kernel that would root for you & give you cwm.
Don't use rom manager on this model.
There was a kernel named bali that gave you overclocked.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1080871
champ1919 said:
Yes, you can root with super one click.
Or, you could flash a new kernel that would root for you & give you cwm.
Don't use rom manager on this model.
There was a kernel named bali that gave you overclocked.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1080871
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Many thanks for the prompt reply, and the suggestion, too. I'm surprised at how fast someone answered my question, considering the T959V is an older phone. I think I will hold off on the custom kernel with overclocking for right now.
My plan was to first root the phone, get rid of some of the applications that I never use, and proceed from there. I do want to retain a few applications which came with the phone, e.g., basic ones like the browser, news & weather, maps, voice dialer, etc. - just because I am familiar with them. I know I can always replace these with others from the Android Market, but don't want to cripple myself too much immediately.
Can you also recommend a bloatware removal tool that allows me to remove apps one at a time?
Now that I think about it a bit more, will I lose these apps anyway when upgrading to a newer/higher OS? Is there any advantage to trying an older/lower one like Gingerbread first before going to ICS, or should I simply jump over the middle ones and go right to KitKat?
I will search the forum for a thread or guide which compares the features of each OS.
I use titanium backup. The free version would work (pro version is worth it).
Here's an old thread about safe to remove.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1044011
Have fun with trying all the different roms.
Definitely have fun with things. It's a great like phone and nearly impossible to brick permanently. The various "reviews" will always be in reference to what else was out there at the time. Titanium Backup and keeping backups current is a great idea as you get different ROMs.
A lot of the older ROMs were hosted on servers now shut down, but if there is something you're looking for, ask, as someone may have a backup floating around.
---
Posted from whatever phone booted today
jeffsf said:
Definitely have fun with things. It's a great like phone and nearly impossible to brick permanently. The various "reviews" will always be in reference to what else was out there at the time. Titanium Backup and keeping backups current is a great idea as you get different ROMs.
A lot of the older ROMs were hosted on servers now shut down, but if there is something you're looking for, ask, as someone may have a backup floating around.
---
Posted from whatever phone booted today
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your input, Jeff. I did some limited modding with a Motorola phone years ago, but this stuff seems a bit more complex and perhaps more unforgiving re: mistakes.
I definitely see the wisdom to backing up one's phone before beginning, but that alone seems like a daunting task. At least as outlined in some of the guides on this forum. The other thing I've noticed is that while the instructions can be step-by-step and quite complete, the first few steps can create problems.
For example, having the correct Samsung USB drivers installed is emphasized. But, even though I've searched and searched the forums for instructions on how to verify that I have the correct drivers installed, I can't find a thing. My T959V has always worked flawlessly re: its USB connection to my Dell notebook, but I never gave much thought to whether or not the correct Samsung 32-bit drivers were installed. And, does that mean installed on my phone or my notebook - or both? Perhaps I' getting bogged down with the details, but I don't want to end up with a brick!
I'll keep reading all the great info on the forum pages and proceed from there. From my limited info gathering, it would seem that some of the Vibrant ROMs will also work on the T959V. Is that true? I know the two models are actually a bit different.
Backup, for me, means recovery backups and Titanium Backup backups, both copied to another device (in case I wipe my microSD). Not so bad.
USB drives are a PITA under Windows. There isn't a sure-fire way to get the right one installed for Odin / heimdall, which is different than the one for adb on this build, which is different than the one for that build,... I try them out until I get one that works when I have to, but do everything I can on Linux or Mac.
Vibrant ROMs are basically not compatible with the T959V. The hardware is different enough in key places.
---
Posted from whatever phone booted today
champ1919 said:
I use titanium backup. The free version would work (pro version is worth it).
Here's an old thread about safe to remove.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1044011
Have fun with trying all the different roms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I'm almost ready to root and upgrade FROYO.VUVKD1 to stock GB 2.3.6, using Superoneclick, but I'm wondering about two things.
One guide method suggests using:
1) Kies mini to first upgrade to stock GB 2.3.6, then,
2) Supermanager to make a backup copy of the EFS folder, and finally,
3) Superoneclick to root the phone.
Another method begins by rooting the phone, then upgrading to stock GB 2.3.6 and offers more than one method to do the upgrade.
Seems I recall reading about disadvantages to using the Samsung Kies mini software, but I don't recall the specifics. So, should I avoid using Kies mini and should I upgrade first or root first? Thanks in advance for any input.
jeffsf said:
Backup, for me, means recovery backups and Titanium Backup backups, both copied to another device (in case I wipe my microSD). Not so bad.
USB drives are a PITA under Windows. There isn't a sure-fire way to get the right one installed for Odin / heimdall, which is different than the one for adb on this build, which is different than the one for that build,... I try them out until I get one that works when I have to, but do everything I can on Linux or Mac.
Vibrant ROMs are basically not compatible with the T959V. The hardware is different enough in key places.
---
Posted from whatever phone booted today
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I appreciate the caution re: using Vibrant ROMs. I was a bit surprised to see posts in the T959V specific forum about it sometimes being okay to use them. I guess it's like Caveat Emptor, eh? Sometimes they work, but not necessarily on every T959V - even when starting from scratch with a stock ROM backup.
sveris said:
I think I'm almost ready to root and upgrade FROYO.VUVKD1 to stock GB 2.3.6, using Superoneclick, but I'm wondering about two things.
One guide method suggests using:
1) Kies mini to first upgrade to stock GB 2.3.6, then,
2) Supermanager to make a backup copy of the EFS folder, and finally,
3) Superoneclick to root the phone.
Another method begins by rooting the phone, then upgrading to stock GB 2.3.6 and offers more than one method to do the upgrade.
Seems I recall reading about disadvantages to using the Samsung Kies mini software, but I don't recall the specifics. So, should I avoid using Kies mini and should I upgrade first or root first? Thanks in advance for any input.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're going to upgrade to Gingerbread 2.3.6, you should give lumin's guide a shot since that's the best method to use in case you soft-brick your phone.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1470716
That will get you a completely stock 2.3.6 rom. I don't recall if you can successfully root 2.3.6 with superone click though, but there are a lot more rooted gingerbread kernels out there that will be useful to you.
I recommend the blastoff kernel by @bhundven since he knows his stuff. I'm not biased 'cause we were both in Team Acid
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1828171
FBis251 said:
If you're going to upgrade to Gingerbread 2.3.6, you should give lumin's guide a shot since that's the best method to use in case you soft-brick your phone.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1470716
That will get you a completely stock 2.3.6 rom. I don't recall if you can successfully root 2.3.6 with superone click though, but there are a lot more rooted gingerbread kernels out there that will be useful to you.
I recommend the blastoff kernel by @bhundven since he knows his stuff. I'm not biased 'cause we were both in Team Acid
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1828171
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, lumin's guide is the one I was referencing when I posted those instructions. But, he didn't mention any issue about using Kies mini or that its use might limit future modding. I guess I'll keep searching the forums for more advice or a definitive answer. And I'll take a look at the description of the blastoff kernel you recommended.
Thanks again for taking the time.
Heimdall (the one clicks) and odin (kies) drivers will clash. You'll need to decide which method you will want to use (or use different usb ports for each method). Being new, I would suggest the one clicks for you.
Unless you wish to have the official, official release, there isn't really a need to go kies route imo. The one clicks are the same.
champ1919 said:
Heimdall (the one clicks) and odin (kies) drivers will clash. You'll need to decide which method you will want to use (or use different usb ports for each method). Being new, I would suggest the one clicks for you.
Unless you wish to have the official, official release, there isn't really a need to go kies route imo. The one clicks are the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for reminding me about the clash potential. But now I'm getting confused again. Lumin's guide suggested the following:
1) Kies mini to first upgrade to stock GB 2.3.6, then,
2) Supermanager to make a backup copy of the EFS folder, and finally,
3) Superoneclick to root the phone.
Would this be mixing and matching like you said, or am I missing something?
sveris said:
Thanks for reminding me about the clash potential. But now I'm getting confused again. Lumin's guide suggested the following:
1) Kies mini to first upgrade to stock GB 2.3.6, then,
2) Supermanager to make a backup copy of the EFS folder, and finally,
3) Superoneclick to root the phone.
Would this be mixing and matching like you said, or am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The "problem" is that you want Froyo. You'll be stuck with basically three-year old tools. Froyo was incredibly painful to use, even compared with Gingerbread. There wasn't much of a demand to "go back to Froyo" once the stock Gingerbread upgrades hit people's phones. Edit -- Looks like there is a heimdall one-click for Froyo, thanks to @FBis251 http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=50931923&postcount=10
In my opinion, just go straight to stock Gingerbread. It shipped that way or OTA upgraded to it for most of the phone's life (until Apple sued Samsung and got it pulled from retail).
This is the thread you should be following for Gingerbread or later: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=21953878&postcount=2
jeffsf said:
The "problem" is that you want Froyo. You'll be stuck with basically three-year old tools. Froyo was incredibly painful to use, even compared with Gingerbread. There wasn't much of a demand to "go back to Froyo" once the stock Gingerbread upgrades hit people's phones. Edit -- Looks like there is a heimdall one-click for Froyo, thanks to @FBis251 http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=50931923&postcount=10
In my opinion, just go straight to stock Gingerbread. It shipped that way or OTA upgraded to it for most of the phone's life (until Apple sued Samsung and got it pulled from retail).
This is the thread you should be following for Gingerbread or later: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=21953878&postcount=2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you may have convinced me to upgrade directly to GB 2.6.3. Just a couple more questions and I'll be ready to take the plunge.
Will the upgrade lock my unlocked phone - back to T-Mobile? I'm on another carrier now. Other than that, I think I'm prepared.
I installed Supermanager and made a backup copy of the efs folder on my T959V, then copied it to the SD card and also to my PC. But, just when I decided to upgrade using Kies mini, I believe I found another contradiction.
In lumin’s guide, he says to do the following:
• - Download Kies mini if you do not already have it. When you follow this link you will see two tabs - 'Manuals' and 'Software ' - click [Software] and download.
• - Make sure your phone is charged.
• - Double check that USB Debugging is not enabled. Go to [Settings] > [Applications] > [Development] and UN-Check [USB debugging].
• - Start Kies mini on the computer.
• - Make sure phone is not connected to computer yet.
• - In USB Settings on my phone I select [Kies (Firmware update)] if it is not set to ask every time.
• - Plugged in phone, let device drivers install on computer. You will see a notification on your computer when complete.
• - Then Kies mini will recognize the phone.
• - Hit [upgrade] and wait.
• - Phone will eventually reboot. Check your IMEI.
I interpret that to mean – according to lumin’s guide - that USB debugging should NOT be enabled.
However, from the T-Mobile Support website, this link, http://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-1810 it says:
Prepare the Samsung Galaxy S 4G
1. From the Android home screen, press the Menu key and tap Settings.
2. Tap Applications.
3. Tap USB settings.
4. Tap Ask on connection.
5. Tap the Escape key once to go back to the Applications menu.
6. Tap Development.
7. Tap USB Debugging.
8. Tap the Home key to exit the settings menu.
9. Insert the USB data cable into the phone and then into an available port on the computer.
10. Select Samsung Kies at the phone prompt. The PC should recognize several devices and begin installation. This is normal and may take a few minutes. Unplug the data cable when completed.
I interpret that to mean – at least according to T-Mobile Support for the T959V - that USB debugging SHOULD be enabled.
So, which is correc: enable or disable USB debugging modet? Do I need a remedial reading course? Or, is lumin saying the same thing as T-Mobile, but in a different order? After reviewing both sets of instructions several times, this is what I think is the situation. Lumin first turns off USB debugging and instead of selecting Ask on connect for basic USB settings, he then selects the Kies firmware update option. However, T-Mobile Support instructs the user to select the Ask on connection option, first, followed by ENABLING the USB debugging function.
Does that mean either method works, just getting from point A to point B by taking different paths?
OK, heimdall will basically reset your phone to stock if you mess up.
Once a phone is carrier unlocked, it is carried unlocked (unless you restore a pre-unlock efs, which isn't something that is likely to happen inadvertently).
That said, you either should try something or decide that you are too risk-adverse for flashing and especially rooting a phone.
Again, heimdall one-click is probably the most robust way to get there
---
Posted from whatever phone booted today
Decided to follow the instructions in lumin's guide to do the GB upgrade - rather than the ones from T-Mobile Support. It worked like a charm. All is well for now. Will check everything for a few days before rooting and removing bloatware. Thanks again to all for advice, recommendations, links, and guidance.
Glad you're able to enjoy an upgraded phone!
---
Posted from whatever phone booted today
sveris said:
Decided to follow the instructions in lumin's guide to do the GB upgrade - rather than the ones from T-Mobile Support. It worked like a charm. All is well for now. Will check everything for a few days before rooting and removing bloatware. Thanks again to all for advice, recommendations, links, and guidance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you'd like to debloat your phone, I made a site that lets you download a zip file that will do the debloating for you. All you need to do is pick which apps you'd like removed, then flash the zip.
http://teamacid.sourceforge.net/debloater/
Enjoy!
PS: You'll need a custom kernel and recovery to flash the zip.
I'll keep that in mind. Still want to check out everything for a few days, since I've noticed a few minor differences after the upgrade.
I just made another backup copy of the efs folder, and noticed something I did not expect. The copy I made when the phone was on Froyo looks empty, while the one for GB 2.6.3 is definitely not empty.
Froyo efs - 0 files - folders
GB 2.6.3 efs - updated file system plus 3 folders - root, .android, and imei
Did I do something wrong the first time I backed up the efs folder while running Froyo? Does it matter, now that the phone is running GB 2.6.3?
---------- I have personally done this on my ZTE ENGAGE V8000 ---------
--------------------- IT IS ALSO A LOT EASIER THAN YOU THINK ---------------------
Now let's just start this out by saying that there are A LOT of resources for all the information you would ever need to root your device, and where to go from there... But, as I am sure you are finding out, EVERY phone has to be treated differently, and there is no -1-way-is-THE-way-for-every-phone scenario. ESPECIALLY for the wonderful ZTE ENGAGE v8000. So this is just how i made it happen on my phone, starting from knowing absolutely NOTHING about rooting, to having it done and finished now and working FANTABULOUSLY. I went through a lot of headaches trying to figure this out and read and read for DAYS, ruling out non-credible sources like that link that always pops up 'SUPER EASY ROOT FOR ENGAGE v8000' blah blah, i read that that method had bricked all kinds of phones, so i decided to stray away from all that nonsense and talked to different people and am compiling all of that info into this one post. HOPEFULLY it makes it easier for you. Your use of anything here is done at your own risk. I nor anyone else is responsible for your phone. And rooting your phone will void your warranty. Having, said that and gotten it out of the way here are the steps you will need to take:
BASIC INFO LINKS (that i found helpful starting out as a NOOBY NOOB! haha):
Now just an FYI, this way DOES NOT REQUIRE YOUR PHONE TO ALREADY BE ROOTED, but you can always go that route if you'd like but dont ask me how haha.. i've included some links below for your benefit though...
Rooting and Roms Explained
Lifehacker How-to Flash/ROMs
Custom ROMs Info
Re-done EASY Root Method for ZTE Engage
Tips to Not Brick Engage
ZTE Engage Roms
GOOGLE SEARCH
How to Root ZTE ENGAGE
SEARCH AND READ THE HELL OUT OF XDA DEVELOPERS
anyway, the list goes on and on... you get the point. I will also include links in each section that is necessary.
Now don't get overwhelmed... once we start this thing, and you being doing it, it is a piece of CAKE, really...
****REQUIREMENTS****
Cricket ZTE Engage V8000
(this is NOT for the Engage LT N8000)
The only other requirement is you can boot your phone into recovery.
Yes this can be installed in stock recovery.
No you don't need to be rooted.
BE PREPARED FOR A LONG JOURNEY, this will take time.
****READ THROUGH THIS AT LEAST ONCE BEFORE YOU DO IT****
**WARNING**
This rom will wipe all data upon install so make sure you have a backup or don't care if data is lost
Also, this will most likely VOID your warranty, continue at your own risk
There is a RISK of 'bricking' your phone, as with ANY rom, but is HIGHLY UNLIKELY
STEP 1
BACKUP EVERYTHING on your phone, send contacts to SD card, PICTURES, Any text messages you need to keep, Documents, GAME SAVES, make a list of ALL the apps you have installed (or back them up using your own method of choice), Be prepared for your phone to be SET BACK TO FACTORY DEFAULT meaning *****EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE ERASED*****. so back up whatever you want to keep and/or think you want to keep. Now I am a perfectionist, so i made 2 Backups, this was my PRE backup-backup. haha. If you are fine with just trusting that the CWM backup will keep everything then wait til later when you will do an entire phone backup in case anything goes wrong, and also to prevent bricking using CWM, or any other backup app of your choice. I literally just copied EVERY file from my phone to a folder on my computer AND did a phone backup.
I used an app called MY BACKUP (get it from PLAY STORE) because it allowed me to backup NON-ROOTED, so i could backup BEFORE i wipe my phone, which will make this a lot easier for me in the long run.
Guide to Backing up/Restoring
LOOK AROUND and figure out what ROOT apps you would like to have on your phone. Make a list so you know what you want BEFORE you erase/Backup your phone, or download them and put them on SD card, so you will have them afterwards. im referring to apps like ROM Toolbox, My Backup, NANDroid Backup, Titanium Backup, ROM Manager, GooManager, some sort of ANTI-VIRUS, SETCPU, etc...
30 Best Apps for ROOTed Devices
----- check and double check you have saved everything, there is no going back once you've started -----
STEP 2
DOWNLOAD CWM [Clockwork Mod](for your specific device, this guide is for the ZTE ENGAGE V8000 SPECIFICALLY)The following link brings you to the main thread which has more information, INSTRUCTIONS and a Q&A posting... feel free to READ EVERYTHING, its better to know too much in this subject than too little. Now you want to get the Unofficial_CWM-v6.0.3.3-V.zip because the official is just the image, not a zip and you need zip to install and the stock one is just if you later decide you dont like whatever you have done and want your phone to go back FACTORY DEFAULT. Like, if you dont like the new ROM on your phone and want your old normal -android- OS (4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich) back. The difference of those confused me at first. Now, do not skip ahead, this part is for DOWNLOAD only, do not attempt to install yet!!
CWM & Stock Recovery Thread: Download and Instructions
More Information and Instructions for ClockwordMod Recovery
*Save .zip for later
ALSO DOWNLOAD the Stock ROM, just in case you want it later, if you dont like the ROM we're gonna install on your device, you have this incase you want to go back to the stock settings. Now, do not skip ahead, this part is for DOWNLOAD only, do not attempt to install yet!!
CWM & Stock Recovery Thread, Download and Instructions
*Save .zip for later
Download S420 ROM. This is going to be the ROOT ROM. It's the main custom rom that we are installing on the phone, the one that will REPLACE the ICE CREAM SANDWICH ANDROID OS and VOID your warranty. It is still based off of Ice Cream Sandwich 4.04 or whatever, because ZTE has not (and probably will not) release an update for their devices to go to jelly bean, or any higher. (kitkat, etc). SORRY GUYS, we're stuck with ICS. Now, do not skip ahead, this part is for DOWNLOAD only, do not attempt to install yet!!
S420 ROM Thread: Download and Instructions
*Save .zip for later.
Copy downloaded files to SD card "Computer > Removable disk > ______ "
we are only using CWM right now, save others on SDCARD for later use
Now, BEGIN installation of the CWM .zip
INSTRUCTIONS: link, SAME AS ABOVE
STEP 3
AFTER CWM is installed and working CORRECTLY: We need to do the PHONE BACKUP. You have a few options here, you can either GO INTO CWM AND RESTORE IN THE RECOVERY MENU or Go to following link, and follow instructions: (IT HAS PICTURES)
Creating and Restoring NANDroid Backups using CWM
Other Options for Backup
Or you can just use the default backup tool provided by CWM, which is what I did.
------ Now that your ass is covered... we can continue ------
STEP 4
Now, getting a ROM on your baby.... THERE is only ONE that i found for the ZTE ENGAGE, which, you guessed it, is also by senor Stedman420... what on earth would we engage users do without this guy? haa... NOTHIN that's what... He's got a ROM called S420 for our device, and as far as i can tell, it is the only one that is modded in any way. YOU DOWNLOADED THIS EARLIER.
Now, just follow his INSTRUCTIONS for installing
BOOM your done!!! Now just restore all your stuff and you are one rooted mofo.
*If you have any suggestions for improving this post, please comment below.
***CREDITS AND LOOOVE TO THE FOLLOWING***
ALL ROMS AND INSTRUCTIONS BY Stedman420 <3 and also a big thanks for answering my questions!
(seriously, if you need help don't be afraid to ask and make sure you say your thanks to him as well! )
BIG THANKS TO ALL THE ABOVE links and websites that helped me rap my mind around this
Khaoticking and Android Addict for helping me out and answering my questions.
Cricket Engage LT n8000
I have a Cricket Engage LT n8000 and need a custom ROM like CyanogenMod. I heard this is the number one custom ROM. What do you think I should do?
brassass said:
I have a Cricket Engage LT n8000 and need a custom ROM like CyanogenMod. I heard this is the number one custom ROM. What do you think I should do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, So with older phones its kinda tricky because, ultimately, it depends if anyone else has modded that ROM to work with your device... please DO NOT just install any ROM on your device it will most likely brick it or make it unusable. I havent had my ZTE engage for quite some time now so I am not sure as to what has been done since then, but this forum might help you http://androidforums.com/threads/roms-for-the-zte-engage-v8000-or-lt-n8000.722734/
My best suggestion would be to google the heck out of it and see if you can find someone who made CyanogenMod compatible with your ZTE Engage, but it might not be possible so you might have to use one of the ones in the forum i posted (the roms i posted in here will not work, but you can still take advantage of the help links i posted they will take you to VERY useful sites that might be able to answer your question)
Good luck and happy rooting!