Greetings,
I have looked at information on the internet (including this forum) with regards to loading different a different OS onto the TF101. There is a lot of information on how to do it, but very little explaining how satisfactory the result is.
Here is my situation:
I have ordered a refurbished TF101 + Dock for under $400 delivered. This is covered by a 12-Month warranty.
My plan was to use this device primarily as a work-oriented device. I am studying law and am required to take excessive notes, apply for clerkships, and write fully referenced (NB: footnoted) essays.
I only have 2gb per month of mobile data which means I spend a lot of time at various educational institutions. I also work mobile pretty often (train ride into city, etc). Essentially I'll be using this primarily as a netbook with an awesome battery life
While the TF101 seems like an perfect device for someone with my lifestyle, the lack of any android app which allows for footnoting is unforgivable. The decision to dual-boot ubuntu is a logical solution.
Onto my questions:
1. Is there any issue setting up dualboot on a TF101 from a bootable USB drive on a windows based OS?
2. How does ubuntu run on the TF101 in terms of productivity? I have read about what functions are supported; but I'm wondering how it all works in practice. It doesn't seem like anyone has turned their TF101 into an ultrabook with a killer battery life and tablet functionality.
3. I have read that bricking is always reversible. Is this the case? I don't plan on deviating from instructions from xda. I understand that there is always a risk, I just want to know my chances.
4. Does it matter whether HC or ICS is loaded on this tablet when it arrives? Are there any steps I should take to update the OS before dual-booting
5. Are there any drawbacks to clocking to 1.4Ghz? Does this affect battery life and if so, to what extent?
6. Is there a lite version of ubuntu I could dual-boot on my TF101 to improve performance/work efficiency? If so, how would this change the instructions listed: http://forum.xda-developers.com/wik..._an_Asus_EEEPad_Transformer#Installing_Ubuntu. Would installing a lite version be necessary? Could the TF101 handle full office applications running a full version of ubuntu without increasing the clock speed? I'm just trying to get a sense of how sharp the TF101 feels running programs on ubuntu.
7. Are there any other things I should consider to optimise my TF101 to perform at the level I indicated?
Thanks for bearing with me. If it seems like I've bought the wrong device, I just find it amazing that I could have a low-spec ultrabook and a tablet with a battery life better than both for under $400. I figure I can boot android for tablet use (calendar, browsing, reading) and ubuntu when I need to get some serious office-type work done
Thanks again for reading.
Let me try to address these one at a time to help you out with your purchase, also glad to see you pick the TF It's a wonderful tablet.
"This is covered by a 12-Month warranty." - If you install Ubuntu, root or otherwise, it will almost Surely void this warranty, so be careful as it is refurbished, inspect carefully and make sure it isn't a lemon (bad tablet).
"the lack of any android app which allows for footnoting is unforgivable" - Quickoffice seems to support this, although it is $20 -- link.
1. A bootable USB stick setup on windows WILL NOT work on the tf, you must use the Android Debug Bridge to install it on the tf. Instructions in link below.
2. It works, but not like desktop ubuntu, as the ARM processor doesn't support 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit applications. So WINE WILL NOT work, AT ALL.
Read what will and will not work here.
3. This is heavily dependant on the version of your tablet, older (b60 or lower) devices have sbkv1 and therefore support NVFlash, which means you can always (unless you.. microwaved your tablet or something..) restore a brick. If you have a newer (most b70s and all b80s and up) sbkv2 tablet like mine, it will not work. If you follow instructions carefully when messing with your device though it's pretty hard to COMPLETELY brick it, although all user data can be at risk.
NOTE! If you have a tablet with sbkv2 you Can Not install Ubuntu on it with the installer. I won't say At All, as there is probably a way, but it would be very hard.
4. You would probably want to update to ICS first, Asus provides this update through ota updates pushed to the transformer or off of their website. It is a smoother experience. Or you could root and flash a custom ROM, (even smoother! ) Also see #5
5. If you want to overclock to 1.4 Ghz you Must Root and flash a custom rom and Kernel (important) that supports overclocking, and may not be able to use ubuntu at the same time as it seems to overwrite the recovery slot (correct me if I'm wrong someone). It does affect battery life by a noticeable amount, (roughly 20% would be my guess) and you really shouldn't need to OC if you're just word processing though. The tf is a pretty fast tablet xD I overclock mine to 1.2 for general use and gaming.
6. Searched, and not that I could find, sorry :/
7. Yes, flash a custom Rom and Kernel, there are many to choose from! The ones I use work great and are in my signature. ARHD Rom and TastyMehIcs kernel. It's all up too you though.
In conclusion I think you would be better off using android as the Ubuntu is pretty limited, quickoffice should be fine. Go ahead and optimize it though, and if you have a sbkv1 tablet you can try it out!
ToD
Edit: You could also look into remote desktop to computer to word process, but that would lock you to your 3g wifi speed and be non-native. -shrugs- Splashtop HD is pretty fast on a home n+ wifi network.
Thanks!
Thanks for your response - it changes everything!
"the lack of any android app which allows for footnoting is unforgivable" - Quickoffice seems to support this, although it is $20 -- link.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually spent quite a while looking around for android apps with full office functionality. Like quickoffice, I found that numerous apps supported viewing footnotes, but none which actually allowed for their creation.
The only solution I've found for footnote creation via android is google docs desktop view, but it's really barely functional at best on android.
I'd also like to use freeware when possible.
1. A bootable USB stick setup on windows WILL NOT work on the tf, you must use the Android Debug Bridge to install it on the tf. Instructions in link below.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, I've never actually installed linux on my computer, but I'll cross that bridge when I get to it
2. It works, but not like desktop ubuntu, as the ARM processor doesn't support 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit applications. So WINE WILL NOT work, AT ALL.
Read what will and will not work here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think this will be a problem. For what I'll use the tablet for, it seems like I'll have plenty of office, video, and utility applications that run natively on ubuntu.
3. This is heavily dependant on the version of your tablet, older (b60 or lower) devices have sbkv1 and therefore support NVFlash, which means you can always (unless you.. microwaved your tablet or something..) restore a brick. If you have a newer (most b70s and all b80s and up) sbkv2 tablet like mine, it will not work. If you follow instructions carefully when messing with your device though it's pretty hard to COMPLETELY brick it, although all user data can be at risk.
NOTE! If you have a tablet with sbkv2 you Can Not install Ubuntu on it with the installer. I won't say At All, as there is probably a way, but it would be very hard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a problem; I've determined the item in the mail is an sbkv2.
This link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1345049 says I can still root the sbkv2. Are there any implications that would prevent me from dual-booting ubuntu?
Otherwise, you've convinced me that clocking would be unnecessary. I really would like to dual-boot ubuntu eventually however for the flexibility (and freeware-ness) of the applications.
For instance, I might download a video clip or pdf, need to unzip it and then find it needs a weird codec to play.
I'm not really a fan of "apps" on mobile devices. I find that they are generally very limiting: they use too much processing power for what they are, they often have an unreasonable price-tag/bloatware, and they are designed for small mobile devices, so the interface lacks functionality.
For example; none of the android office apps support footnote creation. Only some support viewing. Clearly the hardware of the TF101 would allow it to footnote easily, so I feel like I should have the ability to use this hardware to achieve the functionality of a netbook
That said, I'm keen to use the whole android/mobile app interface when I've separated the tablet from the dock and recline to watch youtube or check my emails
Alright, I'll look into it more as to getting Ubuntu on a sbkv2, as I'd want to do it too, but for now, assume no as I've looked into it before and no cigar.. I believe there is a chroot method but that is slow buggy non-native etc so it's probably not what you're looking for. Using desktop view in Dolphin Browser HD is actually about the same as pc browsing, just tested on google docs. Or you could always type out your docs on the tablet then get on a pc/desktop view and add footnotes later. (roundabout, I know x.x)
Rooting the sbkv2 and romming is easy, but sadly Nvflash doesn't work at all till ASUS unlocks the bootloader or someone cracks it.
"I'm not really a fan of "apps" on mobile devices. I find that they are generally very limiting: they use too much processing power for what they are, they often have an unreasonable price-tag/bloatware, and they are designed for small mobile devices, so the interface lacks functionality. "
The way android works helps to manage processing power very well, so you shouldn't be worried about a smooth experience if you root rom and optimize. As for the design most major apps have an HD version specifically for tablets, and many are free (if you can get past ads or use a blocker ) Any other questions/concerns?
Thing O Doom said:
Any other questions/concerns?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this point I'm only really trying to figure out whether there is a way to dual-boot ubuntu. I have more reading to do, but my current reading suggests that it's possible - just not sure how accessible the process is to someone like me.
Law here allows us to return an unopened product within 7 days of purchase, so I will have to weigh up whether I can reasonably expect a way to run ubuntu in the future, and whether I should just have fun with android in the meantime.
I'll be happy to keep it if I thought there'd be a way to run ubuntu (or asus releases the key) sometime in the next couple of months. Otherwise I've just spent $400 on something that my current (old, heavy, 1hr battery) laptop does better.
EDIT: Remote desktop isn't a possibility due to my lack of internet.
2ND EDIT: I've made a bit of a mistake: the model no is TF101-1B180A, but as far as I know it is skbv1 (fingers crossed) which means I can use the PRIME installer. I guess I shall find out tomorrow morning!
Thanks again for the help!
What you really need to find out is the serial number - If it's B60 or lower it is sbkv1, if it's B70 it could be either (mine is a b70 but is sbkv2, my friends is a sbkv1, we both got it in best buy on the same day ) The ubuntu help and installer thread in the dev forum can help you if you have sbkv1, I can help walk you through everything if you'd like too. Asus is 'planning' to release the bootloader, which will happen eventually as people continue to pester them, and there is a way I'm sure.
Just an F.Y.I it is possible to install Ubuntu on an SBK2 device followinf the instructions in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1537566
As for the speed of it, it is not great(I did the mount-loop install on the internal storage which is at least faster than installing on an sdcard). I havn't tried overclocking yet to see if that helpls. Also a number of things do not work at all/ need some tweaking to work.
how about tethering from wifi from your phone and using something like splashtop?
I have a TF101G so the internet issue is a bit less troublesome.
That guide you linked seems a bit roundabout, but I'll try it out and if it works TYSM xD Thanks. ^^
It is layed out pretty well in the third post. I used the Dual-boot with loopmounted image option and just followed the instructions in that post. Just make sure you have rooted and installed cwm recovery.
Also I am not sure if the android kernels linked in the post are ics or hc ones, but if you upgrade to ics there are a couple kernels available in the dev section.
Theres an app called ubuntu installer, it isn't native but may work about the same, also testing now.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA
Thing O Doom said:
Theres an app called ubuntu installer, it isn't native but may work about the same, also testing now.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't bother with that, it is far too slow to be useful in my experience.
EDIT: deleted because it sounds negative. Basically I'll need to try to return/sell this if I can't get ubuntu working because android cannot do what I need it to.
As I pointed out previously it doesn't matter if you have an sbkv2 device as far as installing Ubuntu is concerned.
Just follow the instructions here after rooting the device.
It is not perfect though, there are a few bugs and as far as I know no one has got hardware graphical acceleration working yet so you can't watch videos. I think sound isn't working yet either.
Also don't expect the same programs you would find in windows or even linux normally as many programs have yet to be ported to arm based linux.
Nairbly said:
As I pointed out previously it doesn't matter if you have an sbkv2 device as far as installing Ubuntu is concerned.
Just follow the instructions here after rooting the device.
It is not perfect though, there are a few bugs and as far as I know no one has got hardware graphical acceleration working yet so you can't watch videos. I think sound isn't working yet either.
Also don't expect the same programs you would find in windows or even linux normally as many programs have yet to be ported to arm based linux.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the instructions.
I NEED this device to be able to perform full word procesing as a minimum. I also want to be able to have multiple windows open so I can actually see what I'm writing, and I would like to be able to see what I'm typing as I type it instead of a second later. I need to be able to use keyboard shortcuts and select text easily. Lastly, I need to be able to streamline the OS so it can run quickly.
If a TF101 with ubuntu dual-booted is unable to accomplih this, somebody please tell me now.
umfortunately I have:
Chip UIP: 0x42890884140b097
SBkv2
Now looking up instuctions to root SBKv2
Nairbly said:
As I pointed out previously it doesn't matter if you have an sbkv2 device as far as installing Ubuntu is concerned.
Just follow the instructions here after rooting the device.
It is not perfect though, there are a few bugs and as far as I know no one has got hardware graphical acceleration working yet so you can't watch videos. I think sound isn't working yet either.
Also don't expect the same programs you would find in windows or even linux normally as many programs have yet to be ported to arm based linux.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nairby,
You didn't mention how to root an SKBv2. Would you use the Universal root toolkit 7.1 found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1185104 ?
If its on ICS: Vipermod option 1.
If it's on HC, root with the razorclaw tool by downgrading the firmware then flash an ics rom. Very easy and no computer required.
Thing O Doom said:
If it's on HC, root with the razorclaw tool by downgrading the firmware then flash an ics rom. Very easy and no computer required.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I receive the message "this device lacks the needed file (bad luck)" after insalling
Related
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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".
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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!
So I've been playing around with my SL101, and finally got a version of ubuntu working (kindof) enough to do some playing and whatnot.
Currently using the TF101 image from lilstevie (unzipped to /sdcard/ubuntu.img ) and ubuntu-mountloop.zip from here (which I flash from recovery because i can't apx mode because of SBK's not found for my device).
I'm just running into a few issues:
Onboard keyboard not recognized (any release) (on boot it looks for a dock and doesn't find one, but the SL101 technically doesn't have one)
Intermittent stalling inside ubuntu
Touch isn't what I wish it would be like (no swipe, no longpress for menu, etc)
WiFi only works in one version I've tested: lilstevie's
We need development on the SL101, or at least some kind of guide helping semi-advanced users inject the needed modules/drivers to load things specific to the SL101! (onboard keyboad, remove secondary battery indicator, etc)
I'd really love to get all the kinks out and have a stable ubuntu dualboot (be it, pseudo dualboot, still none the less)
Now, I was asking around a couple of days ago in #android and #android-root on freenode, and found out, for "ubuntu for phones" (which we should see a version hit for the galaxy nexus near the end of this month) they're actually using android drivers, so I'm wondering if anyone's played with this at all, i.e. loading ubuntu with android's drivers and having everything work out of the box...
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2013/01/02/canonical_announces_ubuntu_for_phones/ said:
Because it uses the same device drivers as Android, Ubuntu for phones will be able to run on a wide variety of hardware, ranging from entry-level devices with single-core processors to advanced "superphones" based on multi-core ARM and Intel chips.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Topic in #ubuntu-phone on freenode said:
Source code and image should arrive end of Feb '13
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Click to collapse
Hello, all:
I am amazed by all that the board's members are doing, but I am also totally confused by all of it. I guess the best place to start is with where I am and where I want to go::fingers-crossed:
I have an ordinary TF-101, Wi-Fi only, with keyboard. I use it almost exclusively when I away from home, usually from 2 - 4 weeks at a time, to access my e-mails (via Wi-Fi). My problem is that on my Windows Desktop I use Thunderbird in Pop mode, downloading everything prior to processing. My problem is T'bird doesn't run in Android. So, I am trying to load a version of Ubuntu onto the tablet so I can run T'bird while away from home.
So, I guess that generates several questions:
1. Has anyone tried this and T'Bird won't run on Ubuntu on the TF-101, no matter what? A no means that's the end of the discussion!
2. If no one has tried this, which version of Ubuntu that can be loaded on the TF-101 is MOST likely to allow me to install and run T'bird?
3. I know that I must first root the TF-101 but there must be a dozen "ways" or "sites" that claim to do it - which would be the best one, from a nube's perspective?
4. As part of this, do I need to update Android (currently 4.0.3) and if so to what?
5. Finally, at least for now, which method for loading the desired version of Ubuntu should I use? Are there any "simple" instruction sets to do this?
Thank all of you for all of your work and in advance for any help that you can give me to help me solve my problem.
Sparky
1. Not me.
2. See #1.
3. I suggest easyflasher
4. No, you can root your stock firmware, whichever it is. Note that it will wipe yoru device (except /sdcard) so back up first.
5. See #1
On a side note, installing Ubuntewww just for Thunderburn is going through a huge hassle to get little benefit. There's plenty of powerful, even better, mobile clients. I use the build-in mail for personal accounts (6 of them) and k-9 mail for business (4 accounts).
Yea I would just find an Android email client to suit your needs
From what I know, there is not a 100% working Ubuntu for the TF101, iirc Hardware Acceleration doesn't work
Unless things have improved since I last checked
If that stock ROM is working fine for you, just hunt the Play Store for another email client to use
Some suggestion
http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-excellent-email-apps-for-android-compared/
http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/30/ae-android-email-app/
http://androidforums.com/samsung-galaxy-s3/703251-best-email-client.html
TheArtfulDodger said:
3. I know that I must first root the TF-101 but there must be a dozen "ways" or "sites" that claim to do it - which would be the best one, from a nube's perspective?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you do want to root the TF101, Frederuco's Guide to Root and ROM the TF101 at sorry not allowed to post the URL - just google the name.
As a newbie to android and the TF101 I found his guide perfectly clear and easy to follow and was rooted in no time at all.
Good luck
Ziggy
@Theziggy, glad you found my guide helpful. Here is a link to it: http://www.transformerforums.com/fo...t/31927-frederuco-s-guide-root-rom-tf101.html
Also, I have an info thread for KatKiss 4.2.2 and 4.3 for anyone new to those ROMs:
http://www.transformerforums.com/fo...ormerly-teameos-4-android-4-2-x-tf101-12.html
http://www.transformerforums.com/fo...f101-roms/38407-rom-jb-4-3-katkiss-tf101.html
Hello guys. I am semi tech able, but by no means a techie. I came here because i have a TF101 and i never use it because ASUS got lazy on it. None of the apps i use function on it anymore.
i wanted to deal with this problem. I read quite a few posts about rooting and installing ROMS. They were a bit difficult for me to follow as they often assume i know steps, until i found PERI V0.42 --TwrpyIndri . I attempted to use this and found that it couldn't detect my TF101, I suspect it is because i am running win 10. Device manager says that windows considers my drives up to date. "Asus Transformer ADB Interface"
I don't really care if the ROM is flashed and i get lollipop or not. I just want my apps to work.
I would use it mostly for the following 3.
Run Videos - MXplayer is what i usually use. It seems fine as it is.
Pleco - with reader add on.
Skritter ( i would prefer to use the site than the app, but now it says i need flash and my browser doesn't work.
It would also be nice to wipe all the bloats.
CHris.,
Ceahorse said:
Hello guys. I am semi tech able, but by no means a techie. I came here because i have a TF101 and i never use it because ASUS got lazy on it. None of the apps i use function on it anymore.
i wanted to deal with this problem. I read quite a few posts about rooting and installing ROMS. They were a bit difficult for me to follow as they often assume i know steps, until i found PERI V0.42 --TwrpyIndri . I attempted to use this and found that it couldn't detect my TF101, I suspect it is because i am running win 10. Device manager says that windows considers my drives up to date. "Asus Transformer ADB Interface"
I don't really care if the ROM is flashed and i get lollipop or not. I just want my apps to work.
I would use it mostly for the following 3.
Run Videos - MXplayer is what i usually use. It seems fine as it is.
Pleco - with reader add on.
Skritter ( i would prefer to use the site than the app, but now it says i need flash and my browser doesn't work.
It would also be nice to wipe all the bloats.
CHris.,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Likely the reason the computer is not detecting your TF101 correctly is that you are not in APX mode. To root the TF101, you will need to follow the directions found here http://www.transformerforums.com/forum/asus-transformer-tf101-development/31927-frederuco-s-guide-root-rom-tf101.html. To install the naked drivers on Windows 10, you will need to disable drivers signature first. Google disable drivers signature in windows 10 and you will find the procedure for doing so.
thanks
barkeater
This worked like a charm. Nice to find a guide that is so straightforward and clear.. instead of the ones that assume we know everything. But heh, the ones that assume are probably busy doing other things.
Thanks for you help.
your welcome
Rvive
Wow does the custom ROM/root ever make a huge difference.. My TF101 is useful again.
Ceahorse said:
Wow does the custom ROM/root ever make a huge difference.. My TF101 is useful again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As a simple user for the TF101 as well I've found that a stock ROM is the best for battery life, as I use it for videos and the occasional reading. If the Google Store is preventing you from getting new apps because of the "your device is not compatible error "then I've found a custom lollipop ROM is a great fix for it. Root really doesn't matter unless you plan on using high admin apps and features.
techyerik said:
As a simple user for the TF101 as well I've found that a stock ROM is the best for battery life, as I use it for videos and the occasional reading. If the Google Store is preventing you from getting new apps because of the "your device is not compatible error "then I've found a custom lollipop ROM is a great fix for it. Root really doesn't matter unless you plan on using high admin apps and features.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I suppose you re right. the root is quite useless for me now. I just figured i needed to root it before i could install a custom recovery/ROM.
This device doesn't ever travel with me. It stays on my classroom podium and i use it purely for video, reading, dictionary and flashcard review.
I am not the most apt as this sort of thing as gettign this far took me quite a while already. I would worry about wasting a few more days to convert to another ROM>
But thanks for the tips.
CHris
Hi all,
As you may assume, I'm the owner of an ASUS TF300TG, since summer'12. During this time, I kept the device updated only with official ROMs. This leads to have currently Android 4.2.1 with what I consider low performance. This pushes me to think on a new ROM, maybe KatKiss with Lollipop or Marshmallow, or even Xubuntu.
The things that take me back from this are the following:
1. I use this device to connect to my company's network. The policy for connecting to such network is no root and no jailbreak. Would it be possible to install a rom without root? I assume so, indeed xubuntu should be recognized as Linux PC.
2. I'm not a programmer, but not only a user. I have installed several PC (window and linux), and flashed once a mobile phone. I'm able to open a command line window and write some commands. But I started to read the xubuntu post, and I wasn't able to follow the messages (at least, the first pages). Is there any place to follow the detailed steps to install a new rom?
3. I would consider a pitty to loose the 3G functionality. Here, I find some kind of contradictions.
a) http://forum.xda-developers.com/transformer-tf300t/accessories/tf300tg-rom-3g-t3270011
Here it's said that asus hasn't released the source code for the 3G module.
b) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2190847
But there's also the xubuntu post, that is stated (if I understood it properly), that 3G module is working. This totally misleads me...
4. After all this, will the effort worth it? I mean, I don't know if the performance improvement will be enough to make up the risk of loosing functionality (or even make it as usable as a brick). I saw some videos over Marshmallow, and it totally encourages me (have to further consider three topics above); I don't find some over xubuntu, and I don't see them so promising...
Thank you in advance for your time reading and answering. I expect your coments [emoji1]
Enviado desde mi ASUS Transformer Pad TF300TG mediante Tapatalk
After more than 150 reads, and no reply, I asked myself what went wrong. I realized that a post with title "Update for TF300TG" that maybe most users would open the post only to check if the there's any update they would like to know. That's the reason why I edited the title into something that avoid misleading.
If this is not the reason not to answer, please let me know.
Regards.
Update TF300TG?
I think you answered your own question in #1. You need it for work, unchanged.
If you were to do anything in the way of changing your ROM, even to xubuntu, then your TF300 would need to be rooted.
Your Asus is old and slow. Nothing you can do will change that.
Maybe you need to get something new and much faster and use it for work.
Then you will still have your TF300 to play with and learn how to root and change roms...
just my opinion,,,, Bob
YMMV but not many custom TF300 ROMs actually lead to a performance gain in the long term (although most may seem very fluid on first few uses). Mostly what they provide is a way to run a more recent Android version on the aging TF300. Gray-Beard phrased this painfully well. It's old and there's nothing you can do to change that.
At the end of the day, Cromi-Xenogenesis 5.4 may just be the best TF300 ROM around. It's great, but make no mistake: this also is just Android 4.2.1
I must say this company policy of "no root, no JB" is absolutely ridiculous. Not only do I doubt this to be verifiable from network perspective, but is the infrastructure THAT insecure that your machine-local EP may pose a security threat to the extent that such a policy is pertinent? And if there IS a BYOD mechanism in place, what happens if you have a windows machine with local admin? Is that also a big no-no? I mean ,God forbid you should have EP on your own bloody device....
On the other hand, xubuntu (or most other linux) isn't that great on TF300, you won't be able to run recent Xorg due to limited ABI support of NVidia's closed-source Tegra3 drivers (thanks NVidia!), probably won't be able to use kernels beyond 3.1.10 (if you do then pls show me how) and the whole thing is just not that stable.
chemizt said:
YMMV but not many custom TF300 ROMs actually lead to a performance gain in the long term (although most may seem very fluid on first few uses). Mostly what they provide is a way to run a more recent Android version on the aging TF300. Gray-Beard phrased this painfully well. It's old and there's nothing you can do to change that.
At the end of the day, Cromi-Xenogenesis 5.4 may just be the best TF300 ROM around. It's great, but make no mistake: this also is just Android 4.2.1
I must say this company policy of "no root, no JB" is absolutely ridiculous. Not only do I doubt this to be verifiable from network perspective, but is the infrastructure THAT insecure that your machine-local EP may pose a security threat to the extent that such a policy is pertinent? And if there IS a BYOD mechanism in place, what happens if you have a windows machine with local admin? Is that also a big no-no? I mean ,God forbid you should have EP on your own bloody device....
On the other hand, xubuntu (or most other linux) isn't that great on TF300, you won't be able to run recent Xorg due to limited ABI support of NVidia's closed-source Tegra3 drivers (thanks NVidia!), probably won't be able to use kernels beyond 3.1.10 (if you do then pls show me how) and the whole thing is just not that stable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will share my experience.
I'm on the Cromi-Xenogenesis 5.4, with standard configuration I got a flawless system at the begging, but after few months I got a laggy device, so then I made a full wipe then I reinstalled everything from the scratch. I did it two times in 2 years.
The last time, before I was willing the third wipe, during first days of January 2016, I tried to make some change in the config with Kernel Adiutor and Developer option.
In kernel Adiutor:
- Governor CPU: perfomance
- Internal Memory => Scheduler: cfq
In Developer option:
- disable animation: Window animation scale, Transition animation scale and Animator duration scale
- force rendering on GPU.
Other important suggestions could be:
- use stock browser
- use Nova launcher
- use Twlight for night use (it's a red filter for screen)
- use Swifteky and reduce the keyboard dimension
- use Adaway to remove useless banner
- kill autostart app (like Amazon, Aliexpress, Weather app... etc)
Now maybe my little guide it's useless, but I have a usable tablet still in 2016 for Web, Gmail, little editing of documents, Telegram, Imgur, Youtube (maybe it has little problem here) and Netflix.
I tried KatKiss 6.x (don't remember the exact version number) for TF300T without 3G, then installed "ppp widget 2" (or "ppp widget 3"?) from Google Play and started 3g manually from this application (widget). Android will not automatically switch from Wi-Fi internet to 3G internet (as like in stock), you must switch it manually. Some bugs discovered, for example, I could connect 3G and disconnect only once, when I want to connect 3G again, I had to reboot. device. Maybe will work on some other firmwares?