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Please help a n00b...

I have read for hours on this site trying to find out how to root my phone. So, I come across the JH2 ROM, the Unleash the Beast v.02 root, the
ODIN3 One-Click (still not sure what that does), And then I start reading about Titanium Backup, ADB (or P, whatever), no idea what that does either, although I believe you have to have a rooted phone to use it) and then I see that you need some things for root, (make sure you have the correct drivers), etc., etc., etc. How about something that explains what some of the major things do and the sequence in which they should be applied, and how to apply them?
- Busybox
- Clockworkmod recovery
- ADB
- Nandroid backup
- Titanium Backup
- Unleash the Beast v.02
- JH2/JH3 ROM flash
What do the above have to do with the phone and with each other?
Don't forget, all of you were new at one point in time and didn't know how to do this stuff either, so a little patience on your part would be welcome.
I think that some of you are so familiar with this stuff that it doesn't even occur to you that there may be people that don't know how to do what you've been doing consistently for months.
My biggest question is this: What do I use to back up my (currently unrooted) phone, so if I need to restore it to factory, I can do that?

follow the steps here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=735482
and when it comes to rooting it, dont.
just go flash the unleash the beast rom and it also tells you how to enable sideloading which will let you download applications from outside the market

Jim_C said:
I have read for hours on this site trying to find out how to root my phone. So, I come across the JH2 ROM, the Unleash the Beast v.02 root, the
ODIN3 One-Click (still not sure what that does), And then I start reading about Titanium Backup, ADB (or P, whatever), no idea what that does either, although I believe you have to have a rooted phone to use it) and then I see that you need some things for root, (make sure you have the correct drivers), etc., etc., etc. How about something that explains what some of the major things do and the sequence in which they should be applied, and how to apply them?
- Busybox
- Clockworkmod recovery
- ADB
- Nandroid backup
- Titanium Backup
- Unleash the Beast v.02
- JH2/JH3 ROM flash
What do the above have to do with the phone and with each other?
Don't forget, all of you were new at one point in time and didn't know how to do this stuff either, so a little patience on your part would be welcome.
I think that some of you are so familiar with this stuff that it doesn't even occur to you that there may be people that don't know how to do what you've been doing consistently for months.
My biggest question is this: What do I use to back up my (currently unrooted) phone, so if I need to restore it to factory, I can do that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go here and read up on this...http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=751934

Okay, one of the first instructions on the above thread says, 'Do a Nandroid Backup first. So, I looked up a Nandroid Backup, and the first thing it says is, 'Nandroid is a set of tools that will enable anyone who has root on their Android device to make FULL system backups, in case something goes wrong or you want to try out that new experimental ROM/theme.' So, I already have to be rooted to make a back-up? What if I want to restore my original ROM? Not saying I will, but what if
I need to, for whatever reason? This is the kind of thing that I find confusing. I have to be rooted BEFORE I can backup my phone? That makes absolutely no sense to me.

Jim_C said:
Okay, one of the first instructions on the above thread says, 'Do a Nandroid Backup first. So, I looked up a Nandroid Backup, and the first thing it says is, 'Nandroid is a set of tools that will enable anyone who has root on their Android device to make FULL system backups, in case something goes wrong or you want to try out that new experimental ROM/theme.' So, I already have to be rooted to make a back-up? What if I want to restore my original ROM? Not saying I will, but what if
I need to, for whatever reason? This is the kind of thing that I find confusing. I have to be rooted BEFORE I can backup my phone? That makes absolutely no sense to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The first link that was provided will get you started and answer all your questions. The jist of it is that you need to root first if you want to perform backups to restore the phone to any given point. You can do a nandroid backup from within rom manager, which was the first app I installed after rooting. It may be a bit overwhelming at first but once you get going, you realize how easy it is with the tools provided in this forum.

Rooting, Flashing, Backing up And Installing New Boot Loader

Hi guys,
I just got a SGS4G about a week ago and I would like to tweak it a little bit but I do have some concerns. This is my first android smartphone
Here are my concerns:
I would like to do a Backup of my ROM in case I ever want to go back to it. How could I do that? Do I need to install a bootloader other than the one that comes with the phone? if yes which one should I install?
I have rooted my phone and would like to get rid of a bunch of apps but was reading that if you remove some of the apps it could cause the phone to malfuncion. Is there a compiled a list of apps that should not be removed? or this is just not true?
When I'm ready to install a Stock ROM how do I do that? Via Odin? (I can look for some guide if it's via Odin)
Can anyone tell me what would be the benefit of installing Deodexed instead of using the Stock ROM?
Will i always me able to come back to my Stock ROM once i figure how to create a backup ROM?
Am I missing any important point that I should know about?
I would really appreciate if you can help clarify this doubts that I got before i try to do anything.
Thanks

i'm new to all of this too but ill try to answer some questions. Although, I think this thread should NOT be in development and should be in general. I personally have read through a lot of threads to get the answers that I was seeking for.
As far as backup goes, I think its possible through Odin via dump option? don't quote me on that, I have not had to do that before, nor have I read up on it. bootloader as far as i see, i did not need it.
there is a thread in here with virgin rom request, LOOK for it.
There is NO compiled list of apps that you can or cannot delete, but if you read, there is a dl for BLOATWARE, use that as a template to what you want deleted.
Right now, ODIN is the only way that you can flash your phone, and use the two roms listed in this development thread.
From what i read a deodexed rom just helps with file system and structure. I think?
you will always be able to go back to stock, if you have the virgin rom.
Imo, you should read up/skim through every thread in here to see what is available, problems people are having and the fixes for them. I know there is alot of information in here and it maybe overwhelming, but there were 172 views of this thread without any replies because us noobs need to READ/SEARCH. Thats the answers we'll get if we continue to make new threads. Just fyi if your new to forums.

Moved as not android development.

As newbie you should first read and use search
then if you dont see question you want, you just ask it
And about Roms , well i tried that deox v2.2 and didnt like it , switched to stock with removed bloat and love it more but thats for different thread

Well thanks for you answers and I do apologize for posting this here. I didn't know. I think i will go with what you have done. Stock ROM without bloatware. Did you flash the Stock ROM from this forum? or did you just deleted the apps one by one?
I will do the fota fix as well.

moshe22 said:
Hi guys,
I just got a SGS4G about a week ago and I would like to tweak it a little bit but I do have some concerns. This is my first android smartphone
Here are my concerns:
I would like to do a Backup of my ROM in case I ever want to go back to it. How could I do that? Do I need to install a bootloader other than the one that comes with the phone? if yes which one should I install?
I have rooted my phone and would like to get rid of a bunch of apps but was reading that if you remove some of the apps it could cause the phone to malfuncion. Is there a compiled a list of apps that should not be removed? or this is just not true?
When I'm ready to install a Stock ROM how do I do that? Via Odin? (I can look for some guide if it's via Odin)
Can anyone tell me what would be the benefit of installing Deodexed instead of using the Stock ROM?
Will i always me able to come back to my Stock ROM once i figure how to create a backup ROM?
Am I missing any important point that I should know about?
I would really appreciate if you can help clarify this doubts that I got before i try to do anything.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ClockWorkMod is the preferred way to backup your ROM, but it does not seem to be working on the SGS4G currently. I was messing with it one night and actually think I got it to backup the Rom one time but I cannot guarantee that I did because I was working on a supposed fix and did not get a chance to copy the backup file to my computer before it got wiped off my SD card. The process is called nandroid backup. If you have a virgin phone and want a clean backup of your ROM you might want to wait until the fix comes out for CWM.
Once you root your phone you can install Titainum backup. That allows you to backup your apps/Data/System settings. At least that’s what it says it does. From what I’ve read, the best way to backup your apps is with ADB which is part of the Software Development Kit. You can also use Android Commander which uses ADB to Pull your apps to your computer and make a backup there. Check http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1010006 for info on SDK and ADB commands. There is also a direction to making new apps install to your SD card natively. This link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001202 also shows that command and how to Reverse/Check status of settings.
The Noobs guide to Oden covers the basics to flashing your ROM fairly well: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001759
The [ROM-ODIN]T959VUVKB5 Stock + Root and [ROM-ODIN] Deodexed KB5 Enhanced v2.2 are the two ROMs that are working now for most people. The first is Odexed the second is Deodexed. Odexed is how it comes stock and takes up less room but making modifications or taking apks from other roms is hard, While Deodexed allows modders to work on the apks & easily change stuff like themes. (Description Taken from Damage's DamageControl Thread) My suggestion is to have some patience and wait for ClockWorkMod to be updated and working for the SGS4G before you dive in too deep. Take some time to look around the 4g posts and read as much as you can to get familiar with what is working and what is not. Check some of the threads with locks on them to see what not to do. There is a wealth of information in these pages.

ClockWorkMod is the preferred way to backup your ROM, but it does not seem to be working on the SGS4G currently. I was messing with it one night and actually think I got it to backup the Rom one time but I cannot guarantee that I did because I was working on a supposed fix and did not get a chance to copy the backup file to my computer before it got wiped off my SD card. The process is called nandroid backup. If you have a virgin phone and want a clean backup of your ROM you might want to wait until the fix comes out for CWM.
Once you root your phone you can install Titainum backup. That allows you to backup your apps/Data/System settings. At least that’s what it says it does. From what I’ve read, the best way to backup your apps is with ADB which is part of the Software Development Kit. You can also use Android Commander which uses ADB to Pull your apps to your computer and make a backup there. Check http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1010006 for info on SDK and ADB commands. There is also a direction to making new apps install to your SD card natively. This link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001202 also shows that command and how to Reverse/Check status of settings.
The Noobs guide to Oden covers the basics to flashing your ROM fairly well: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001759
The [ROM-ODIN]T959VUVKB5 Stock + Root and [ROM-ODIN] Deodexed KB5 Enhanced v2.2 are the two ROMs that are working now for most people. The first is Odexed the second is Deodexed. Odexed is how it comes stock and takes up less room but making modifications or taking apks from other roms is hard, While Deodexed allows modders to work on the apks & easily change stuff like themes. (Description Taken from Damage's DamageControl Thread) My suggestion is to have some patience and wait for ClockWorkMod to be updated and working for the SGS4G before you dive in too deep. Take some time to look around the 4g posts and read as much as you can to get familiar with what is working and what is not. Check some of the threads with locks on them to see what not to do. There is a wealth of information in these pages.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man! Really helpful. I will read into these threads and probably will wait for the clockwork to work for SGS4G.
I really don't see the advantage of flashing to Deodexed. Maybe i'm missing something?

[Q] So I think it is time to root this thing Can someone help out this noob

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

[Q] POLL: BEST way to root, ROMS, Q about factory reset

Hi everyone,
Noob here, looking for some phone specific info. After extensive research I have not found exactly what I'm looking for thus the reason for this post. Thanks in advance.
I'm looking for help finding the safest, simplest, most reliable way to root my 959v. I want to root so that I can a) delete preloaded browser bookmarks b) delete preloaded bloatware c) file share with my PC over WIFI (with Samba?) and d) block pop up ads (adfree). I need to be able to undo this in case of a warranty issue and I don't want to lose any of the function of the phone (i.e. front face camera, contacts sync, wifi).
Couple questions: Will factory reset take care of the bloatware and bookmarks?
Also, has anyone found a way to put a 4g toggle switch icon, like the power bar that comes with the phone, or do I need a new ROM to do this, and what does everyone recommend as for an O.S. / ROM. Thanks!
Firmware: 2.2.1
Kernel: 2.6.32.9
Build: FROYO.VUVKD1

i would suggest you flash ravers odin kj6 rom. then flash drhonks kj1 kernel with odin too in order to root it. both go in pda section. then flash through cwm soma's simplysimple rom wich is debloated or just use titanium backup to remove bloat from your rooted stock kj6.

I consider myself pretty technical but I don't completely understand Roms and kernels. By flashing a ROM, are you changing the OS and/or GUI? Does it overwrite the old OS or just make an amendment to it? Will any old Roms be left taking up useless space in memory? What about kernels? Thanks,,
Joe

Flashing a new rom is like re-installing windows on a PC. you need to backup your data before you flash.
The best way to root, is to either use ODIN to flash a new kernel that already had root (doesn't replace the whole rom), or use the latest superoneclick to root. Rooting does not erase your data. Then you can use a program like titanium backup to remove bloatware.
check out the dev form, and look for the bible thread, there are links to roms and guides on how to safely flash your phone. You are going to have to read up a bit to become familiar with how this phone works.
good luck.

Normally, I follow FB's ext4 guide.
But since my phone has been UnBrickable Modded, I've made a kj6 Back-To-Stock One-Click. This oneclick will basically get your phone to where it would be if you got your phone new with kj6 preloaded. RaverX3X tested for me, so I know it works well. After you run the one-click, odin kj1 from drhonk or extract the zImage and Heimdall it to KERNEL and RECOVERY partitions.
If you run the One-Click a second time, you will also get the right bootloaders for GB.

What if I have the KD1? What is all this KJ6/KJ1 about? Do I have to find and manually reinstall drivers for my device? Does a ROM need to be compatible with a Kernel or vice versa? How do I know what ROMS/Kernels will work with my device?

Farlander said:
What if I have the KD1? What is all this KJ6/KJ1 about? Do I have to find and manually reinstall drivers for my device? Does a ROM need to be compatible with a Kernel or vice versa? How do I know what ROMS/Kernels will work with my device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, KJ6 was just released (leaks and source).
KJ1 (kernel) was the last voodoo kernel that drhonk made.
There isn't a KJ6 voodoo kernel, yet.
KD1 is Froyo.
Drivers... If the drivers you have now work, then don't change them
The roms and kernels we are all talking about will work with your device, because they are modified leaks for your device.
Just don't go off flashing stuff from other device forums. That is stupid.
You're basically safe if you mix froyo kernels with froyo roms, and gingerbread kernels with gingerbread roms.

Ok thanks a lot that I can understand. I'll need to brush up on differences between gingerbraed vs. froyo, and whether or not ice cream sandwich is going to be worth the headache. I'm actually happy with the stock rom, it's just that I hate bloatware, and any spy programs, and I want total control over my file access, wifi file sharing, bookmarks/etc. So really all I need to do is root the phone, I was thinking of superoneclick, but I'm not sure the device is supported.

Okay. You NEED to READ. Really dont know if SuperOneClick works with our phone? Come on. Do some research first.

There's a lot of techno jargon babble out there I'm trying to sort through, I'm not 100% literate on everything smartphone yet. When you flash a new kernel, say, KJ6, what happens to your applications? In a windows system they would stop working, but their data files would still exist. Are programs unchanged, do they leave useless data files, or can they somehow be reactivated, like the installer package and the data are in the same folder, just need a little help filling in the blanks Thanks

I know how you feel, but there is not "do it just like this and you will get this result," because development has been fast and furious, even a little ad hoc. The Bible is useful to a point, but in the end you are just going to have to read and cautiously test. If you stick with stock KJ6, your phone should work as intended. If you move to a custom ROM, some things may be buggy and other things may work even better than stock. For instance, battery life is improved via a couple roms I have tried, but wifi (dynamic dhcp) suffers. You just have to proceeed CAUTIOUSLY. Tha's the best advice I can offer.
Farlander said:
There's a lot of techno jargon babble out there I'm trying to sort through, I'm not 100% literate on everything smartphone yet. When you flash a new kernel, say, KJ6, what happens to your applications? In a windows system they would stop working, but their data files would still exist. Are programs unchanged, do they leave useless data files, or can they somehow be reactivated, like the installer package and the data are in the same folder, just need a little help filling in the blanks Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

If you are looking to JUST ROOT your SGS4G then I would recommend SuperOneClick. Version 2.2 worked for me running stock 2.3.6.

I'm rooting my phone as we speak using superoneclick 1.6.5 shortfuse. I enabled usb debugging, download samsung drivers to pc, installed drivers to pc, then started superoneclick and plugged in the phone. Clicked rageagainstthecage, "ROOT", then after about 10 minutes my girlfriend called me, which I had to answer, only to find out that she was breaking up with me, then it got to the part where it says "running rageagainstthecage" and now it's basically frozen after 30 minutes, superoneclick icon saying "(Not Responding)" Great...

Update: No combination of rebooting and rageagainstthecage was compatible with my device/os/version of superoneclick. I used SuperOneClick 1.6.5, my OS is stock 2.2 froyo, and the with usb debugging enabled, it froze every time. Using psneuter, it worked ok, the superuser icon is there... so, for a test. I went to the browser, still cannot delete those annoying bookmarks. Ok, so now to try and delete some bloatware.... still cannot delete any factory installed programs. So, that seems a bit pointless, I'm going to play with wifi filesharing, file explorer, and see what I can access, will report back.
My ultimate goal is to have a fast as **** phone, complete functionality, no bloatware, all custom apps, I want to be able to shortucut ANYTHING to the desktop, especially a 4g toggle switch. How close am I? So far the phone runs a lot slower than before I rooted.
<< Another wierd glitch, when I went to the market without rebooting the phone first, the screen went black, it vibrated in sets of 3 pulses, and I had to hard power down to reset. Went back to market and problem did not reoccur>>

Ok so I installed Titanium Backup, umm yay now for some fun, started deleting everything that didn't look familiar including those pesky sec.android.acore.blahblahblah and now my phone does that 3 vibe thing and I have to reboot. Ok so next chore is reflashing the rom I guess....

Glad you got it working... ummm, sort of?
From what I understand about where you are, I would
1. Use odin 1.8.5 to flash KJ6 stock.
2. Let it reboot and do its thing for a bit (say, 5 minutes?)
3. Check to see if everything is working, stock--4g, wifi, browser, market etc.
4. Use SuperOneClick 2.2 (after setting usb debug in settings-->applications) to root. May take a few tense minutes, but it works. Least it did for me.
5. Load your titanium and uninstall stock apps as you desire.
6. Get a full charge and calibrate your battery.
7. Lust after the roms (especially the great looking 2.3.5 based one by Raverx3x) that require CWM, but cry over your fear of a no-stock recovery.
Should get you where you want to go.
Farlander said:
Ok so I installed Titanium Backup, umm yay now for some fun, started deleting everything that didn't look familiar including those pesky sec.android.acore.blahblahblah and now my phone does that 3 vibe thing and I have to reboot. Ok so next chore is reflashing the rom I guess....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Well, I'm officially the master of this sheeet box. DAAAAANG SKIIPPPY FOLKS I had a soft brick condition, didn't know what the f to do, started getting lost on google and good old you tube led me home, can you believe I was bout to cut my usb wire to make a jig no no no not necessary, just hold both volume button and plug in usb, it goes to download mode. Next I couldn't get odin to recognize the phone but eventually went straight to pc (not through my usb hub) and it popped up, I flased the zip of the closest thing I could find to my stock 2.2 froyo, now I have KB5, kernel 2.6.32.9 wtf wow it almost the same but noticeably different, the settings menu is different, it came pre-rooted, but video skype works perfectly and on front facing camera booyah
been fun fellas talk again soon

I am glad you are where you want to be, but DUDE! I assumed you knew how to get into download mode up vol+down vol+plug in usb. Jeeez! That's frickin' basic! Anyway, glad you're sailing. You should be able to Odin 2.3.6 and root it with SuperOneClick 2.2 now, if you want. I am still trying to get upo the nerve to load CWM and try Raverx3x's Octane. It's a downgrade from 2.3.6, but the screenshots look tasty!
Farlander said:
Well, I'm officially the master of this sheeet box. DAAAAANG SKIIPPPY FOLKS I had a soft brick condition, didn't know what the f to do, started getting lost on google and good old you tube led me home, can you believe I was bout to cut my usb wire to make a jig no no no not necessary, just hold both volume button and plug in usb, it goes to download mode. Next I couldn't get odin to recognize the phone but eventually went straight to pc (not through my usb hub) and it popped up, I flased the zip of the closest thing I could find to my stock 2.2 froyo, now I have KB5, kernel 2.6.32.9 wtf wow it almost the same but noticeably different, the settings menu is different, it came pre-rooted, but video skype works perfectly and on front facing camera booyah
been fun fellas talk again soon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Really wtf. Download phone drivers, Odin program, Ravers Odin Kj6 ROM and drhonk KJ1 kernel. You need nothing else.

SOC 2.x
How many times and in how many (slightly) different ways can one say the same damn thing? If he has flashed KJ6 already and wants to keep that kernel, then I still say SuperOneClick 2.2 will root his device. Am I wrong? Why do people keep using SOC 1.x then complain about not getting it to root their gb 2.3.6 successfully?
SOC 2.x...use it!
http://shortfuse.org/
chris31jct said:
Really wtf. Download phone drivers, Odin program, Ravers Odin Kj6 ROM and drhonk KJ1 kernel. You need nothing else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

[Q] Rooting FROYO.VUVKD1 with Superoneclick

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
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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!
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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?