Related
Yes I have searched, however the results seem to be conflicting.
I have integrated into my ROM IE 6.0 as well as a Flash Lite 3.1 OEM package I found that I thought had the required ActiveX files and settings that would allow Flash support in Internet Explorer. After trying to view various sites with Flash in them it appears it doesn't work (you just get the banner 'This site requires Flash, click here to download' or something similar).
Now I have spent the last hour or so searching on here and via Google and can't seem to work out if this is actually possible. Some posts I have found seem to say it is possible with Opera but not IE, others say it isn't possible with either and others seem to say with the required ActiveX plugins it should work with IE 6.0?
Does anyone have any definitave answers?
Andy
In Sakajati's HyperDragon IV ROM, the Flash Lite 3.1 ActiveX Player plugin works perfectly with both PIE8.12 & old PIE for WM6. It is a rumor that FL3.1 does not work with pie. The FL3.1 he used is 9.1.115.134. Edit: Try google 'official fliash lite 3.1 cab', you can find this build, a 2MB cab.
Edit: There are two layer's function of FL, HDIV ROM works on both of them, (for both pie & opera, in both FL3.1 cooked-in & seperately installed cases):
Layer 1: .swf files, e.g. www.cnet.com
Layer 2: Stream video like .flv on www.youtube.com
In many cases ppl say it does not work means it only does not work with layer 2. Many reason can cause this. Mostly is RAM issue, coz FL3.1 is a RAM intensive app, check HKLM > Software > Adobe > Flash Lite ActiveX > Memory Settings > Dynamic Memory (in MB), on default it was set to 32 MB. I doubt that if RAM not enought FL does not even launch layer 2.
Beside this there's some hardware driver (like D3D & OpenGL) and also software crash issue may also involved in the performance or functionality of FL3.1.
I'll attatch some screenshots later on.
If everything setting well (like in HDIV ROMs), the YouTube playback quality should be as same as the standalone player, at least I can not tell the difference from my eyes.
Edit: On HDIV Rhodium ROM for example, I don't need to do anything to ensure the playback quality for PIE. But I need to release memory for Opera to playing same quality (like disable m2d, large start menu, shutdown animation, etc.) I think it is because Opera Mobile 9.7b1 itself consumes about 9MB RAM, while PIE8.12 only around 1 MB, the ram needed for FL to play the same .flv is same on PIE & Opera.
wg5566 said:
In many cases ppl say it does not work means it only does not work with layer 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the IE 6 OEM integrated into my ROM as well as the Juggalo Official Flash 3.1 OEM and I don't think any Flash sites are working in my ROM. I didn't think that IE 8 Mobile was 'real'?
Can you post some URLs with Flash content that you know work with the ROM you are running?
Andy
www.youtube.com
www.cnet.com (the main picture on middle of upper part of the home page.)
flash.tom.com
on this page, there are two embedded youtube videos:
http://my.opera.com/operamobile/blog/
I read that, FL3.1 only works with flash8 & minus, if the flash content is flash9, it does not work anyway.
And even for Flash 8,7, or lower, it still can not play back everything. But it plays most .swf and most popular .flv.
Some screenshots here.Most 9f them for Opera, but you can find several for PIE.
http://files.myopera.com/Wg5566/albums/789940/thumbs/2009%2006%2019_09%2033%2024_0004_111g.jpg_thumb.jpgThis one is fullscreen in PIE.
wg5566 said:
www.youtube.com
www.cnet.com (the main picture on middle of upper part of the home page.)
flash.tom.com
on this page, there are two embedded youtube videos:
http://my.opera.com/operamobile/blog/
I read that, FL3.1 only works with flash8 & minus, if the flash content is flash9, it does not work anyway.
And even for Flash 8,7, or lower, it still can not play back everything. But it plays most .swf and most popular .flv.
Some screenshots here.Most 9f them for Opera, but you can find several for PIE.
http://files.myopera.com/Wg5566/albums/789940/thumbs/2009%2006%2019_09%2033%2024_0004_111g.jpg_thumb.jpgThis one is fullscreen in PIE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, not happening with any of them
If I go here:
http://gallery.mobile9.com/f/788572
I eventually get a box where the Flash animation should be (compared to what I can see via the browser on my PC) and if I press and hold where the outline of the box is I see a popup menu that says 'About Flashlite 3.1 ActiveX Player' but I never get the animation to display. If I click 'About...' it says 'Player Version: 9,1,115,134'
Andy
What D3D/OpenGL driver are you using?
And did you cooked-in some graphic enhancement apps like gfxbooster?
wg5566 said:
What D3D/OpenGL driver are you using?
And did you cooked-in some graphic enhancement apps like gfxbooster?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using the Samsung Omnia D3D Driver as this worked much better with the various D3D sample applications than the HTC Class Action one. I also have gfxboost in the ROM, however disabling gfxboost gets the same results.
Andy
ADB100 said:
I am using the Samsung Omnia D3D Driver as this worked much better with the various D3D sample applications than the HTC Class Action one. I also have gfxboost in the ROM, however disabling gfxboost gets the same results.
Andy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The ROM I used also use Samsung Ominia driver, see also Samsung Ominia Goodies.
I did notice that on WM6.5 ROM, the gpxbooster crashes with flash.(Not tested on other ROMs yet)
Think you have someway to test the D3D driver work or not.
Then install the official FL3.1 distributable player to see does it works to play with local .swf files. (Need to use total commander to associate .swf with the exe)
Install of the distributable player also helps the plugin to work in some cases, & the distributable player itself works (at least as a plugin for .swf).
If it works then the problem is association between plugin and PIE.
If it does not work, you still need to sort it out what is crashed with FL.
In my experience PIE is much easier to work with FL3.1 than Opera.
Edit: BTW suggest to take out everything related to D3D, graphics enhancement, & flash plugin from your ROM. And then easier to test them, bcz all of them works if you install cab & you don't need to reflash the ROM again & again.
In otherways you build a 'naked' ROM, after flashed the ROM first install FL see deoes it work with PIE. If works then install your apps one by one & see which one crashes.
Another thing is that the official Flash7 Player (flash.dll) should also work with PIE.
Any further progress & can you share further information here?
Edit: Avother point is in PIE maybe you need to set in options to let the website know that you are using PIE & not a desktop IE, otherwise the site will ask to install the flash player for desktop. You can still use the 'desktop view' to 'view full versions' after did so.
wg5566 said:
Any further progress & can you share further information here?
Edit: Avother point is in PIE maybe you need to set in options to let the website know that you are using PIE & not a desktop IE, otherwise the site will ask to install the flash player for desktop. You can still use the 'desktop view' to 'view full versions' after did so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have installed the official standalone player (FlashLite_DP_WM6Professional_EN.cab) and the results are still the same.
Andy
ADB100 said:
I have installed the official standalone player (FlashLite_DP_WM6Professional_EN.cab) and the results are still the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have local .swf files to test on the StandAlone player? If not find some here:
http://www.leconcombre.com/board/dl/us/downloadflas0us.html
Just click on the .swf file after download to the phone. If it's not associated withe player, can use Total Commander ( http://ghisler.fileburst.com/ce/tcmdpocketarm.cab ) or TaskMgr.exe ( http://www.dotfred.net/TM/TaskMgrv3.1_WM2005.zip ) to associate them with the exe found in the distributable player install folder.
wg5566 said:
Do you have local .swf files to test on the StandAlone player? If not find some here:
http://www.leconcombre.com/board/dl/us/downloadflas0us.html
Just click on the .swf file after download to the phone. If it's not associated withe player, can use Total Commander ( http://ghisler.fileburst.com/ce/tcmdpocketarm.cab ) or TaskMgr.exe ( http://www.dotfred.net/TM/TaskMgrv3.1_WM2005.zip ) to associate them with the exe found in the distributable player install folder.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I associate .swf files with "\Program Files\Adabe\FlashLite\appzone.exe" then .swf files will play (or at least a couple of the ones from the link you posted will). .flv files don't play though.
Andy
ADB100 said:
If I associate .swf files with "\Program Files\Adabe\FlashLite\appzone.exe" then .swf files will play (or at least a couple of the ones from the link you posted will). .flv files don't play though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What if you install Opera Mobile 9.7B1?
See the on site .swf work with Opera or not.
Follow the procedure in this post if you have trouble running Opera.
Edit: BTW, please check in your Windows folder do you have a file named IEActiveX.dll.(probably it is a hidden/system file)
wg5566 said:
What if you install Opera Mobile 9.7B1?
See the on site .swf work with Opera or not.
Follow the procedure in this post if you have trouble running Opera.
Edit: BTW, please check in your Windows folder do you have a file named IEActiveX.dll.(probably it is a hidden/system file)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IEActivex.dll is in the Windows folder - it was included as part of the Flash Lite 3.1 OEM package. As for installing Opera this isn't going to happen I need (want?) to get this working with IE
Andy
ADB100 said:
IEActivex.dll is in the Windows folder - it was included as part of the Flash Lite 3.1 OEM package. As for installing Opera this isn't going to happen I need (want?) to get this working with IE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just for probs sorting. If it works on Opera, the problem maybe the association between FL & IE. If it does not even work on Opera, it maybe something conflicts with FL3.1.
And what if you use DotFred's TaskMgr to register that dll file (IEActiveX.dll), and soft reset?
wg5566 said:
And what if you use DotFred's TaskMgr to register that dll file (IEActiveX.dll), and soft reset?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still the same
Well I can not figure out more suggestion now. It's whether the OEM package has some shortcomings, or you have something conflict with Flash Lite.
But definitely, Flash Lite 3.1 shall work with both PIE & Opera Mobile. Check here.
wg5566 said:
Well I can not figure out more suggestion now. It's whether the OEM package has some shortcomings, or you have something conflict with Flash Lite.
But definitely, Flash Lite 3.1 shall work with both PIE & Opera Mobile. Check here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your efforts so far. I will continue to pursue this as I would like Flash working with IE in my ROM, however it isn't a priority. I'd like to hear from any other chefs that have integrated Flash Lite 3.1 & IE 6.0 into their ROMs and what they had to do to get it working. I am not doing anything that clever in my ROM - just a dump of the official 5.2.19212 WWE ROM and then some re-heating - IE 6.0 included, various updates to OEM stuff and that's really about it.
Andy
wg5566 said:
Well I can not figure out more suggestion now. It's whether the OEM package has some shortcomings, or you have something conflict with Flash Lite.
But definitely, Flash Lite 3.1 shall work with both PIE & Opera Mobile. Check here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your efforts so far. I will continue to pursue this as I would like Flash working with IE in my ROM, however it isn't a priority. I'd like to hear from any other chefs that have integrated Flash Lite 3.1 & IE 6.0 into their ROMs and what they had to do to get it working. I am not doing anything that clever in my ROM - just a dump of the official 5.2.19212 WWE ROM and then some re-heating - IE 6.0 included, various updates to OEM stuff and that's really about it.
Andy
I'm looking for a synchronization solution that will allow me to synchronize files between my Windows 7 Pro desktop, Windows 7 Pro Netbook and my WinMo 6.5 HD2. The limitations of the Windows Mobile Device Center in only being able to synchronise to the phone main memory is a major shortcoming IMHO and I really need to be able to utilize the extra storage capacity of an SD card. I will need to be able to synchronise different files between say my desktop and netbook than I would between my desktop and HD2, so any software I use will need to support profiles.
I've had a quick Google this morning for third-party apps to do this and found Syncables 360 which gets good reviews and seems to cover everything that I need.
Anyone here used it or have experience of it, good, bad or otherwise?
Well to answer my own thread, I took the plunge and bought this software. I can now understand why they no longer offer a trial version...
Initially I had problems installing this software on my Windows 7 desktop PC with the installer saying I didn't have the Adobe Flash player installed. I did have the latest Player version and this was confirmed to be working via Adobe's online diagnostics. I got around this problem by downloading & installing the latest Beta of the Flash Player. Now any software that is reliant upon third-party plugins such as Adobe Player worry me, but I had already paid for the software licence and the specifications of the software looked very promising.
So on to actually running up the software...
Next worry - it's a Java app. and from experience I know that any Java app that has to make calls to hardware as this software will need to do, is likely to to have issues with access permissions and operating system-level security software. That said, the software ran up fine and apart from a couple of rendering issues with the screen dialogues text (I've set my system to a slightly lager font than default) all seemed to be good to go. So, now to set-up my first sync profile...
Well you can't set up a profile unless you register an online account with the developer. Why? If I setup a profile to synchronise my data then I'd like that profile to be retained on my computer not on some third party's server. Why do they need to retain control over what I choose to synchronise? Anyway, an account was setup and a basic sync profile was established between my computer and a USB2 external hard disk. So I start the profile with just a few meg of basic file types to transfer (xls, doc & jpg), it appears to start OK but then it slows but the computer hard disk light is going full blast and the whole computer grinds to a near halt (Quad Core CPU with 4GB RAM). I manage to get Windows task manager up after much wait and sure enough the CPU is running at 100%. I manage to force a shut-down via task manager and the system shuts down.
OK, let's restart check the event logs and see what might have gone wrong. No chance! My once reliable system now Blue Screens with "IRQ_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL". Nothing I could do could get it past this point and Windows 7 repair declares there are problems with the file system which after 10 minutes or so appear to have been fixed by chqdsk. Nothing would make the computer boot again, last know good, safe mode, Windows repair... nothing. The system would blue screen no matter what.
Eventually the only option left was to do a full system restore to before Syncables was installed. After a further chkdsk the system reboots and all is again well. I run hard disk and hardware diagnostics to make sure the system is healthy and not suffering from a failing hard disk, system bus error or faulty RAM modules - all test 100%
In fairness to Syncables they did offer to do remote support, but I declined and said I needed a robust system and had no confidence in the Syncables after it all but trashed my whole system. Thankfully they did agree to a full refund.
It's probably unfair to judge this software based upon my experience alone, but it does make you wonder why they no longer offer a trial version for download.
On paper this software looks to be an excellent all-round synchronisation solution, but sadly an implementation based upon Java & Adobe Flash Player is unlikely to ever be as robust as a system-level coded solution.
INFORMATION
DEVICE
Craig CLP281 Android Netbook
Via Wondermedia 8650 based chipset / 800 mhz / wifi / 3 standard usb / ethernet!
PROS
Original firmware available
Original firmware unlocked
Unique form factor
Inexpensive
CONS
No obvious upgrade path
No sources posted
No officially supported flash player
Lower end hardware
HOWTO
unzip to sdcard
start device with sdcard plugged in
wait for everything to be wiped out
ROM
OVERVIEW
This is a modified version of the official firmware. The focus is on removal of bloatware and unneeded proprietary software.
INTEGRATED SOFTWARE
su
Superuser
Terminal Emulator
ConnectBot
Total Commander with ftp and lan plugins
Gapps
Zirco Browser
Yaxim Jabber Client
Jota Text Editor
DO IT YOURSELF
See the README to deduce how to modify the ROM yourself. The changes are documented thoroughly so that many people can use this release as a kitchen of sorts.
LINKS
R1
ROM: http://www.mediafire.com/?dsf11zm7jik9f63
SOURCE: http://www.mediafire.com/?8juzj5qb5jme1ud
ROM: http://dev-host.org/xcz68h384fe8/clp281_firmware2.2_HACK9_R1.zip
SOURCE: http://dev-host.org/ekni2eg4td3i/SOURCES_1.zip
R2
ROM: http://dev-host.org/gm3c1mrdeai3/clp281_firmware2.2_HACK10_R2.zip
ROM: http://www.mediafire.com/?4tpli2998g10to4
R3
ROM: http://dev-host.org/qyo428ewrgvl/clp281_firmware2.2_HACK11_R3.zip
SOURCE: http://dev-host.org/w8p6gotfisnb/SOURCES_2.zip
ROM: http://www.multiupload.com/V5MKGW7X5V
SOURCE: http://www.multiupload.com/KG7KJJKT8U
R4 (Latest)
ROM: http://dev-host.org/b1ufq9iixe9k/clp281_firmware2.2_HACK12_R4.zip
ROM: http://www.multiupload.com/IJWDECP8WF
chroot Repository
References:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=486247
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1172504
Please choose one of the following 2 methods!
USB Control Script (1st method):
DEBIAN_CONTROL - see bottom of post for script
MicroSD Control Script (2nd method):
DEBIAN_CONTROL_SD - see bottom of post for script
You will need this image unless you plan to put your own together.
Debian Squeeze Image:
http://www.multiupload.com/C9RDP4ODZX
The image can be flashed to your usb drive or sd/microsd card with dd on your fullsize computer. Please be aware that I have not tested running from a fullsize SD card.
dd if=~/nameofimage.img of=/dev/nameofdevice
Operation
1.Run the control script to start the chroot. You can run console commands here. The screen command is useful here also.
2.Run ./vnc to start the vnc server which itself starts xorg and the window manager. The script is not totally failure proof.
3.Login with your vnc client. I use Android vnc viewer. Password is testing.
http://code.google.com/p/android-vnc-viewer/
Window Managers
lxde
icewm
xfce
check /.vnc/ for the xstartup scripts. just rename the one for the window manager you want to xstartup and reboot your chroot.
BUG:
chroot will not cleanly unmount
SOLUTION:
keep chroot running in the background - it should only take up memory not cpu
Stock ROM Repository
Images contain stock system, stock boot, and CWM recovery.
vm670 recovery image is for the new screen version so it should work for all vm670.
LG vm670:
http://www.multiupload.com/LG1JCZ5CMD
Samsung i9023:
http://www.multiupload.com/KX1LIAASH3
Craig clp281:
http://www.multiupload.com/9XUQA7SEF1
Asus tf101:
http://www.multiupload.com/XMRO9AI4KC
Samsung p6210:
http://www.multiupload.com/L702W2MA7J
Can you add in support for the official android market, i would love to have this on here.
FAQ POST:
Does Flash work?
I am not holding out much hope for flash on ARMv6. It seems like a long complicating debugging process for what is in the end slow and buggy results.
The browser is slow?
Right now, it seems that javascript performance on the stock browser is much worse than I expected. For now, try turning off javascript and images if you use the stock browser.
Stock ROM?
The link for the device on Craig's website is:
http://www.craigelectronics.com/site/pdetails.php?id=314
You can download the completely stock ROM from here.
ADB?
I tried ADB with a male to male USB that I had laying around with no success with a GNU/Linux PC and a different Windows PC. All 3 USB ports were tested. But you can connect with adb connect ipofdevice over your LAN if you see what address your router is giving the device. Or of course you could set a static IP.
Minimize application?
You can return to the home screen at any time by pushing fn+home.
Sources for the binaries you have added?
Try the sources link on the first post. The zirco apk is unchanged and their website is here: http://code.google.com/p/zirco-browser/ . The Gapps are straight from my VM LG Optimus V.
Mount an ext2/3 formatted USB drive?
mount -t ext3 /dev/block/sda1 /mountpointofyourchoice
Enter key not working in some terminal applications?
Use Ctrl-m instead.
References:
https://github.com/jackpal/Android-Terminal-Emulator/issues/21
http://code.google.com/p/terminal-ide/issues/detail?id=6
Just wanted to thank you for taking this project on. This device could be much more and for the price you just can't go wrong. Good luck and I'm off to root.
Is it possible to boot or load a stripped version of windows xp from a thumb drive? and did you try all the usb ports with that cable?
wgallt:
The root situation on the ROM and my current devices in general is a little complicated. For this device in general, it comes ADB rooted out of the box. I have added another su to the rom that will allow console root. Unfortunately, because it is an older version of su, it does not seem to work with Superuser.apk. I am waiting on a response in the Q/A forum on errors I am getting compiling the current version of su. I have been able to compile Superuser.apk successfully but it is not much use without the current version of su. I am of course preferring to include source and source-compiled binaries wherever possible in the ROM.
celltimemb:
Market added.
See above for ADB info.
Regular Windows XP does not run natively on ARM CPUs. From Craig's website it appears that they have an identical model running Windows CE. You should look into any running a lightweight GNU/Linux chroot with QEMU or VMWare and then booting something like Windows 98. I would be amazed to see it, especially with the limited RAM we have available.
I am releasing a new ROM with integrated Google Apps and a open source browser named Zirco which seems to run very well. Compare the stock browser with stock settings to Zirco on forum.xda-developers.com to know what I mean. Be sure to read the README.
This ROM may end up becoming a different series entirely. One with the market and one without.
I have updated the first post with the links and README.
can u add live wallpaper support in a future rom?
If I get around to compiling AOSP that should come with live wallpaper.
I tried copying the live wallpaper apk and what I thought to be their dependencies from my Optimus V. Unfortunately, the switcher crashed and the logcat just said the wallpaper switcher would not start.
lot of apps run real slow and lag i tried some games like that bird game where you flick it to the target, i get like 1 frame every 2-3 seconds for the animation, soo slow, they claim 800 MHZ processor but damn this thing is soooo slow. even the fake chinese android phones the star A5000 runs and performs better than this.
2d games lag real bad so I dont see any 3d gaming at all on this machine. unless some elite hacker and coder can make a fully optimized rom for this thing.
Thanks for reporting your results. I have had mixed successes with games. The drag racing game works decent and another rice-can type racing game worked ok too. But many games instantly crash also. The live wallpaper would probably run slow anyway.
Web browsing
Remote administration
Network administration
Note taking
Light media playback
VOIP
Chat
These are all the uses I can think of it for the moment. It gives me an idea to include a note taking application at some point.
the new browser force closes on me, and does this thing have flash support, I have a gut feeling this is an x86 formfactor which is why it runs so slow.
Please read the README and in general read the previous posts carefully.
This is definitely not an x86. It if were, it would actually be faster.
One of these pages is the page for the CPU:
http://www.wondermedia.com.tw/en/products/platform/soc/wm8650/index.jsp
http://www.wondermedia.com.tw/en/products/platform/soc/wm8750/index.jsp
Lol on the craig website product page they show windows on it instead of android.
http://www.craigelectronics.com/site/pdetails.php?id=314
This thing can supposedly handle 3d gaming so i cant undertsand why most games including 2d games run so slow.
---------- Post added at 09:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:57 PM ----------
Is it possible to put Windows CE 6 on this from the craig CLP280 model?
Merry Christmas!
After a productive night the R3 ROM is out.
The changelog and sofware list highlights:
removed zirco integration
init.rc changes to support zirco
holiday wallpaper
added OPTIONAL on localdisk with:
yaxim jabber client - open source
zirco browser - open source
jota text editor - open source
su - compiled from source
superuser - compiled from source
For security reasons, you should probably choose allow once instead of always for su.
As usual be sure to read the README.
Just got a Craig Netbook. I hate the Android stock install. I found this thread and it seems like the answer I'm looking for. If I understand you correctly, the description you give for the Rom"
"OVERVIEW
This is a modified version of the official firmware. The focus is on removal of bloatware and unneeded proprietary software."
is the first hack? (clp281_firmware2.2_HACK9_R1)
Also, if I do this and screw it up, can I reinstall the original Android from the Craig website?
Thanks.
Yes that is the first release. I would recommend trying the third as it is the latest version as of this post.
Yes you can reinstall the original firmware.
Thanks Jason.
Hey Jason. I just installed it. Had to download a new adobe flash player to watch a youtube video.
When it comes to this operating system I am a total newbie. So, in order to do a "do it yourself" install (since I still can't install some pre installed apps like "Dialer" and other things) are there simple instructions to do a "do it yourself" or do you have to be a techy to do it? I know Windows OS well but Android is so foreign to me. Just had this thing for a few days and I am ready to throw the netbook against the wall and then stomp on it. Your root was my last hope.
Well first off, were you able to actually play flash in the browser? That would be a nice new development. Alternatively, you could try the included Youtube player.
I would be glad to help in any way I can. For a do it yourself ROM, you would just take the factory firmware RAR file and edit it yourself. You would start by unRARing the file with something like WinRAR on Windows. But I would recommend trying GNU/Linux instead if you are at all interested in development. You can use the README file and this thread as a reference along the way.
Why are you interested in installing the dialer anyway? I noticed some phone components are installed but there seems to be no way to access them.
You're a doll Jason. Thanks for your willingness to help.
I didn't know about the Youtube player. Thanks for the tip. On the original install I was able to play flash in "Browser" (at Youtube at least) but not with "Browser" in this install. Although, maybe "Browser" opened "My Browser" in the original install and that's the one that had flash support. (I'm still learning). So since I didn't get around to installing your included browser maybe that's why it wouldn't play. Anyhow, I couldn't install the flash update via the link Youtube provided. The little download arrow on the top left hand of the screen just never went away. I had the unit on for about 3 hours and the arrow remained with no confirmation that the download was complete. I searched the system and the SD card for the download but couldn't find it. This is not the first time I had this problem with downloads so maybe it's something with my particular device. This is actually my third. Last two were defects.
About the Dialer... it was a typo. I meant to say I want to UNINSTALL it from the unit, but Android won't let me. It just seems useless to have this app since I have a netbook and not a phone. Plus, I think it may be eating up my battery usage as it could be the app responsible for the cell standby thing I have in Battery Usage which is using up 80% of my battery. Like I said, I am a newbie to this OS so, I'm looking at things like Dialer, Telophony etc. I may be wrong about this though. It may be some other application seeking Cell Radio signal as reported in Battery Usage.
I just did a side by side comparison of the unzipped install I got from Craigs website (by the way, thanks for that link) and your version to see if I could learn and do my own hack. I did notice a few differences.
Ok first I saw the Optional folder with some apps and Browser fix as you mentioned in the Read me
Then there was the app folder where you removed some apps from the original install and added others. Is it as simple as that? To just delete the apps you don't want from this folder of the original install? Unfortunately I don't see Dialer in that folder. I'd like to get rid of that too. I guess you can't get rid of every app.
Another difference was that I saw "su" in "bin". and I noticed SuperUser.apk in your app folder. Does that app make you the administrator of the device giving you access to system files to delete them if you want to? (I looked it up on WIKI) Cause maybe I can include that in my hack.
Also I see another difference in this folder:
\FirmwareInstall\packages\fs_patch\root_patch\system\lib
In your readme you said these are shared libraries but I don't have a clue what that means. Do I need these files?
Thanks again for taking the time with this. I would love to do my own hack. It would give me great satisfaction after the countless hours of stress trying to do stuff they won't let me do.
All the best,
Angie
I was able to work out a hack which will allow desktop level flash in the Surface browser, even on sites that are not approved by Microsoft. So if there is a site that you like, but flash doesn't work, because Microsoft hasn't deemed it worthy enough yet, here's a way to manually enable Flash. (For those who aren't aware - only Microsoft approved sites are allowed to use Flash - its not universal - a site apparently has to be approved and put on a list for Flash to work - basically Microsoft censors the content that you see based upon whether or not the site meets their "criteria")
This hack is for the desktop Surface browser, not the metro Surface browser.
The downside with this hack is that, so far it appears that it only works for one website at a time.
Major disclaimer that you've heard a million times before - Tinkering with the registry has its risks - If you screw something up don't blame me.
How to do it:
1. Start
2. Swipe up from bottom and Select: "All apps" on bottom right menu
3. Select: Command Prompt
4. type regedit at the cursor and press enter
5. User account control appears - Do you want program to make changes - Yes
6. Path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer
7. Make Sure "Internet Explorer" is selected then go to "Edit" and Select "New" and "Key" from the menu that appears.
8. The New Yellow Key folder will appear on the file tree - name it: Flash
9. If you click View and Refresh, the new Key "Flash" should be just below "Feed Discovery" in the tree.
10. Make sure your new key "Flash" is selected (the only assigned value at this point will read: "Default")
11. Now go to Edit/New and select "String Value" Name the new value DebugDomain
10. Double Click the new string value. Edit box will open. In the field: "Value Data" put the domain of your website for example "www.myflashcrippledsite.com"
11. Click OK Close Regedit and your done.
12. In the Desktop Browser Make sure the setting ActiveX Filtering is unchecked. (Right side of browser where there are the Home, Favorites and Gear icons - select the little round Gear (tools icon) and then Safety and then uncheck ActiveX Filtering
View attachment 1439531
Now try browsing your site -might have to restart the browser or refresh your page - its worked for me without a restart of the computer but you might need to restart the Surface itself (Right swipe, Settings, Power, Restart.)
If you have problems, make sure you use the right domain for your website for example www.microsoft.com not http//www.microsoft.com
Also remember this works in the Desktop version of the browser not the metro version accessed from the Start screen.
And like I said above, make sure you don't forget to uncheck "ActiveX Filtering" or Flash still won't work.
For now, to view another site, you need to change the DebugDomain value to the domain of your new site - pretty quick once the key has been made, and shouldn't require a restart of the computer. Tomorrow I'll see if there's a way to put multiple DebugDomain keys.
Sorry if this is unclear, I just figured this out then typed it at 2:30 in the morning. I've tested it on a couple of sites with success. But this is still very experimental, haven't done much testing as its too late - more tomorrow.
But I'm simultaneously thrilled and annoyed at this - because after seeing how well flash works on many crippled sites, it makes me really angry that this function isn't on by default and I have to jump through ridiculous hoops just to get flash to work.
Awesome, have a script!
Works for me with just a page reload; thanks!
I wrote some scripts to automate this (scripting being the easiest way to do third-party code on Windows RT); see the attached file. You'll either need to run the EnableFlash script as Admin every time, or run the SetFlashRegPerms script as Admin just once first. If you put the EnableFlash script in a location that is in your PATH, you can easily launch it from any cmd or Powershell prompt.
I love Love LOVE that Windows RT can be scripted, and that people can run stuff as Admin so easily.
Dear all, I have just found a better solution to this problem.
See the thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=33414039#post33414039
This works on all websites you manually add, as many as you would like without the hassle of going trough the registry.
Wow I go to bed at 3:00 AM and by breakfast there's already a script for my solution as well as an alternative solution - gotta love XDA.
Thank you GoodDayToDie and Marvin_S for responding so quickly. I noticed Marvin_S started a new thread to fully explore enabling flash by editing the whitelist - sounds like a good alternative.
I feel much more positive about the Surface now - Lack of Flash support was one of the biggest negatives for this device and it was really bothering me.
And its nice to see that we have easy control over the OS in terms of changes and improvements - a big plus and bodes well for the Surface's future.
For those of you missing Windows 8.1, congratulations, you just found the solution.
Download
OneDrive http://1drv.ms/1SGHo5e
MEGA https://mega.nz/#F!ks8gjaZT!oQx3xt9ET0nXe8JbKDvtsA
Features
1.Windows is fully updated as of February 2016.
2.Surface February update included (solves most speaker popping issue)
3.Based on Surface Pro 3 image. Full stock-like Surface branding (desktop background, out-of-box experience).
4.Windows activates with the embedded product key. Fully legit. I cannot guarantee if yours couldn’t activate though.
5.Bloat free with about 3 GB saving: (Microsoft devices are shipped bloat-free? Think again.) | Only 6 metro apps included (Camera, IE, OneDrive, PC Settings, Photos, Store). The rest can be downloaded from Store | Trial Office removed | Speech data removed.
6.Languages included: English, French, Spanish. Since it is Windows 8 Pro, you can download any other language later.
7.Fully working refresh and reset functionality.
8.WinRE from vanilla Windows, touchscreen driver included.
9.Pagefile takes less space: 400 MB. It can grow to up to 8 GB, a reboot brings it back to 400 MB.
10.Various Windows tweaks | File Indexing paused on battery | Verbose messages, you get more information in boots and shutdowns | No startup programs delay | non-certified DLNA devices are supported | Custom resolution script added (open C: drive, its there. Just double click.) | "Get Windows 10" system tray icon disabled.
11.Some drivers from S3, SP3, SP4, and other OEM devices (kudos to them for releasing their Skylake devices with Windows 8.1 drivers).
12.Latest Intel iGPU driver (version 4380 Beta).
NOT working
1.Windows Hello. As expected, Windows 8.1 does not support Windows Hello.
2.The buttons are mapped differently | Power --> Volume Down | Volume Up --> Power | Volume Down --> Start
3.Surface app | You cant adjust pen sensitivity | You can't configure the pen top button action through the app. You can still customize it manually with AHK.
FAQ
Q: Camera app crashes / BSOD
A: You need to disable the IR camera. You can do that either via the BIOS or Device Manager.
Q: The pen button doesn't work after the first setup
A: You may need to re-pair the pen. Go to PC Settings > Bluetooth and remove the Surface Pen. Create a new pairing by pressing the pen top button for 7 seconds, it will show up on the Surface, and just pair it.
Q: How did you get the embedded Windows 10 product key to work with Windows 8.1?
A: Actually I have no idea. It just worked.
Q: Are the "not working" issues going to be fixed?
A: For the buttons, its up to Microsoft to release a Windows 8.1 compatible driver, and we have no other source as Microsoft has modified Intel's driver. If you know how to remap the buttons (either via editing the driver, Registry, or AHK), please share it with us and I will include it in the next version. For the Surface app, I believe it is simply because the Windows 8 version of Surface app was not updated for the Surface Pro 4 (and will never be), so don’t expect that one.
Q: Why did you go with the beta driver for the graphics?
A: The latest release version, 4352 and 4364, are practically unusable. I experienced blank screen in video playback and some random BSOD. No choice really.
Q: When Intel has released the new driver, do I need to wait for the next version of the ROM?
A: No, you can just download and install it yourself without waiting for me to upload an updated ROM. The new version should pop up here, download the ZIP version for Windows 8.1, and install it using the "Have Disk…" method. Step-by-step guide http://www.windowscentral.com/how-install-intel-beta-graphics-drivers-surface
Q: How do I remap the pen buttons manually?
A: Go browse /r/Surface in Reddit, they have comprehensive guides on how to use AHK with the Surface Pen.
Q: Do I need to wait for your next ROM to get Windows updated?
A: No, you can just update normally via Windows Update
Q: You idiotic luddites should just upgrade to Windows 10 rather than shoehorning Windows 8 to the cutting-edge device that clearly does not deserve the old, ****ty Windows 8. Also, I am a Windows 10 fanboy.
A: Before you get angry and all that, I actually *do* want to upgrade to Windows 10. I mean, how cool is that to login with your face? However, it is hampered by quite a lot ergonomic usability issues, bugs, and the general quirkiness of Tablet Mode. As of today, Tablet Mode is nowhere near final. Not even the Task View has proper animation in Tablet Mode, it already tells how half-assed the Tablet Mode is.
How to install
BACKUP BACKUP BACKUP!!! This will format the entire disk. No data will be preserved! Its also advised to remove the microSD card during the process.
0. Get a keyboard and USB hub if you don’t have the Type Cover.
1. Download and extract the package
2. Set up the ISO image on a CD or USB stick. If you use Rufus, set it on "MBR for UEFI computer" (only for the USB stick, the Surface will be set up as GPT)
3. Boot it on the Surface
4. Enter cd /d D:\scripts
5. Enter diskpart /s part.txt
6. Enter apply D:\Images\install.wim D:\Images\winre.wim
7. You can repeat the step #6 just to be sure
8. Reboot, unplug the USB stick.
Signed up on xda just to express my gratitude for this great tutorial and release. Everything worked a charm with full touchscreen support and I am so glad to finally have Windows 8.1 on my Surface Pro 4! No more forced windows updates sucking up my bandwidth, more free space on my hard disk, and the only gaming app that I use for my ps2 games (PCSX2), finally runs at 60fps (can you imagine on windows 10 the emulator would drop between 40-50 fps)!!! Thanks again for making my day!
ptrkhh, did you by any chance figure out how to configure the power and volume buttons???
For now I'm using volume up button to turn the tablet on and off and the power button to turn the volume down.
Fan-damn-tastic!!!
Like the other person above, I made an account just to express my EXTREME gratitude for the amazing work that was done.
I just got myself a surface book for dirt cheap, fantastic device, horrible OS. I'm not one to shy away from randomly screwing with things, so on my research for windows 8 installs for the Book, I found this absolute GEM of a post.
Downloaded the image, and threw it on my Surface Book and here's what happened:
a) installed flawlessly
b) activated instantly
c) everything that works on the Pro, works on the book. The keyboard and mouse work too!!!
d) The BIG one... the DETACH...... IT WORKS!!! Hold the detach button like normal, and, granted it seems to take a second or so longer than it did on Win10, but it releases JUST fine.
e) the dual batteries. I didn't test it for long, but Win8 seems to drain the base battery and leave the tablet battery alone.
f) the power /vol buttons do the same thing as the pro4, but i really don't care. Actually, the Book doesn't have a windows button on the tablet, so the vol down button doing that is actually a HUGE plus for me. Screw the volume controls!
g) i have not figured out the nvidia drivers yet, but i also haven't tried too hard yet. So that's a negative so far.
h) Front camera does weird infared things. It will be disabled.
I would imagine even if i get the dual gpu to work, if i start a program with the nvidia, and disconnect the screen, it will probably go all fubar and need a hard restart. The latch seems to run independently from the rest, and without software watching it, it WILL do what you tell it to, period. (my assumption, haven't tried it yet)
Battery life has not been tested much yet.
Device manager shows 2 unknown devices. I'm assuming one is the GFX card, the other one, probably the detatch button. If that's not it i have no idea. Really don't care though.
Updates pick up on new driver versions just fine. (again, so far)
I have the i5 version w/dual gfx. I have no idea what will and won't happen with the i7, the i7 with nvidia, or the newest performance base with the better nvidia gfx. I doubt much will be different, but much as I did, proceed at your own risk!
I hope this was useful, and if it was, let everyone know it works!!!!
If anyone wants, I can post an update after I finish setting it up, and had some real-life usage of it. If not, my feelings will not be hurt!
Awesome!
Works almost perfect on my Surface Pro 4.
But somehow it cannot auto rotate and the touch keyboard is not popping up (even in metro apps).
Does anybody know how to fix that?
Edit: you have to reboot and remove the keyboard before windows boots to get it working.
The OneDrive link is dead, can you get a new link? Mega isn't working for me
Would this work on a surface 3?
Surface pro 4 BSOD
Hi, I have the i5 version surface pro 4 and when i use the image above or a fresh copy of windows 8.1 pro it finishes installing then blue screens with internal power error. Any ideas as to get past this.
Cheers
I have the same problem.
When it finishes installing, I get a blue screen saying there is a problem with the BCD. I tried booting with a Windows 10 ISO to use the startup repair tool to fix it, but it says it can't. I've tried it 3 or 4 times; it did work once, but I wanted to try a different Windows, so I wiped it. Now I can't get it to work again. I did all the diskpart stuff, and the apply, all seemed to work until final boot = bsod. The apply.cmd is supposed to do the configuring, I think. Anybody else had this problem?
Surface Pro 4 factory restore
Hi" have you tried going to the Microsoft site and downloading the factory image. Just take the ISO and make into USB bootable. It will install everything and recreate all partions. Hope this helps.
Does anyone know If this will work on Surface pro 6????
I ran into an issue with my Surface pro 6 that gives me the BSOD every time I connect my type cover!!! I tried everything! I ran all the diagnostics and went through almost every safe steps and was able to fix the corrupted files. I even did all the driver diagnostics!!! It is very frustrating because I even did a factory reset and I'm still having the same issue... I'm hoping to be able to safely downgrade to Windows 8.1 to see if it fixes the issue, then upgrading to Windows 10 again. That's the last thing I can think of.
Does it work on SP4 2017???
I have the same problem.
When I tried to install this ROM on my Surface pro 4 2017, it gives me the BSOD.
Commands do not work, it says right no the first: "The system cannot find the path specified"
i also have the same problem on my surface pro 6
How to install a version of 8.1 on SP4-SP6
If you get that INTERNAL_POWER_ERROR, you most likely have a Kaby Lake processer which only supports Windows 10. The only version of 8.1 that works on a Kaby Lake Surface Pro 4+ is Windows Server 2012 R2.
asking for drivers
ptrkhh said:
For those of you missing Windows 8.1, congratulations, you just found the solution.
Features
1.Windows is fully updated as of February 2016.
2.Surface February update included (solves most speaker popping issue)
3.Based on Surface Pro 3 image. Full stock-like Surface branding (desktop background, out-of-box experience).
4.Windows activates with the embedded product key. Fully legit. I cannot guarantee if yours couldn’t activate though.
5.Bloat free with about 3 GB saving: (Microsoft devices are shipped bloat-free? Think again.) | Only 6 metro apps included (Camera, IE, OneDrive, PC Settings, Photos, Store). The rest can be downloaded from Store | Trial Office removed | Speech data removed.
6.Languages included: English, French, Spanish. Since it is Windows 8 Pro, you can download any other language later.
7.Fully working refresh and reset functionality.
8.WinRE from vanilla Windows, touchscreen driver included.
9.Pagefile takes less space: 400 MB. It can grow to up to 8 GB, a reboot brings it back to 400 MB.
10.Various Windows tweaks | File Indexing paused on battery | Verbose messages, you get more information in boots and shutdowns | No startup programs delay | non-certified DLNA devices are supported | Custom resolution script added (open C: drive, its there. Just double click.) | "Get Windows 10" system tray icon disabled.
11.Some drivers from S3, SP3, SP4, and other OEM devices (kudos to them for releasing their Skylake devices with Windows 8.1 drivers).
12.Latest Intel iGPU driver (version 4380 Beta).
NOT working
1.Windows Hello. As expected, Windows 8.1 does not support Windows Hello.
2.The buttons are mapped differently | Power --> Volume Down | Volume Up --> Power | Volume Down --> Start
3.Surface app | You cant adjust pen sensitivity | You can't configure the pen top button action through the app. You can still customize it manually with AHK.
FAQ
Q: Camera app crashes / BSOD
A: You need to disable the IR camera. You can do that either via the BIOS or Device Manager.
Q: The pen button doesn't work after the first setup
A: You may need to re-pair the pen. Go to PC Settings > Bluetooth and remove the Surface Pen. Create a new pairing by pressing the pen top button for 7 seconds, it will show up on the Surface, and just pair it.
Q: How did you get the embedded Windows 10 product key to work with Windows 8.1?
A: Actually I have no idea. It just worked.
Q: Are the "not working" issues going to be fixed?
A: For the buttons, its up to Microsoft to release a Windows 8.1 compatible driver, and we have no other source as Microsoft has modified Intel's driver. If you know how to remap the buttons (either via editing the driver, Registry, or AHK), please share it with us and I will include it in the next version. For the Surface app, I believe it is simply because the Windows 8 version of Surface app was not updated for the Surface Pro 4 (and will never be), so don’t expect that one.
Q: Why did you go with the beta driver for the graphics?
A: The latest release version, 4352 and 4364, are practically unusable. I experienced blank screen in video playback and some random BSOD. No choice really.
Q: When Intel has released the new driver, do I need to wait for the next version of the ROM?
A: No, you can just download and install it yourself without waiting for me to upload an updated ROM. The new version should pop up here, download the ZIP version for Windows 8.1, and install it using the "Have Disk…" method. Step-by-step guide
Q: How do I remap the pen buttons manually?
A: Go browse /r/Surface in Reddit, they have comprehensive guides on how to use AHK with the Surface Pen.
Q: Do I need to wait for your next ROM to get Windows updated?
A: No, you can just update normally via Windows Update
Q: You idiotic luddites should just upgrade to Windows 10 rather than shoehorning Windows 8 to the cutting-edge device that clearly does not deserve the old, ****ty Windows 8. Also, I am a Windows 10 fanboy.
A: Before you get angry and all that, I actually *do* want to upgrade to Windows 10. I mean, how cool is that to login with your face? However, it is hampered by quite a lot ergonomic usability issues, bugs, and the general quirkiness of Tablet Mode. As of today, Tablet Mode is nowhere near final. Not even the Task View has proper animation in Tablet Mode, it already tells how half-assed the Tablet Mode is.
How to install
BACKUP BACKUP BACKUP!!! This will format the entire disk. No data will be preserved! Its also advised to remove the microSD card during the process.
0. Get a keyboard and USB hub if you don’t have the Type Cover.
1. Download and extract the package
2. Set up the ISO image on a CD or USB stick. If you use Rufus, set it on "MBR for UEFI computer" (only for the USB stick, the Surface will be set up as GPT)
3. Boot it on the Surface
4. Enter cd /d D:\scripts
5. Enter diskpart /s part.txt
6. Enter apply D:\Images\install.wim D:\Images\winre.wim
7. You can repeat the step #6 just to be sure
8. Reboot, unplug the USB stick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dear ptrkhh,
Thank you very much. Without your excellent work, people can still not use SP4 installing Windows 8.1 or even Server 2012(based on Windows 8.1 framwork and also working with Windows 8.1drivers). Because there are many versions of both Windows 8.1 or even Server 2012, I was tring to collect the drivers that SP4 can work.It is hard to find touchscreen driver from vanilla Windows, and there so many drivers to test from S3,SP3,OEM. Could you please share the Surface Pro 4 drivers for Windows 8.1 separately, or give us a guide to lead to download each drivers. Hope you have a nice day
repo006 said:
Dear ptrkhh,
Thank you very much. Without your excellent work, people can still not use SP4 installing Windows 8.1 or even Server 2012(based on Windows 8.1 framwork and also working with Windows 8.1drivers). Because there are many versions of both Windows 8.1 or even Server 2012, I was tring to collect the drivers that SP4 can work.It is hard to find touchscreen driver from vanilla Windows, and there so many drivers to test from S3,SP3,OEM. Could you please share the Surface Pro 4 drivers for Windows 8.1 separately, or give us a guide to lead to download each drivers. Hope you have a nice day
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, thank you, it means a lot to me. Unfortunately I no longer have the device nor copies of the driver. Quite surprisingly many drivers are actually available online, you may want to consider using the software called "Snappy Driver Installer" (SDI), it is able to find drivers suitable for your device. The ones I formulated myself are under the folder "bastard drivers.rar", which is not many if I remember correctly.
For the touchscreen functionality in particular, it needs the graphics driver. Once you have the graphics driver installed, touchscreen should work instantly.
How much free ram is there after a fresh install?
I have ram shortage issues in Win10 with my 4GB Pro4. I'm not a fan of Win10 either but I sure wish I could just disable crap and free up the ram instead of downgrading.
Does the front webcam and mic work ok? I use mine frequently. Thanks!