What you need to know before customizing your phone. - Galaxy S 4 General

Hey guys!
Each phone company has its own policies and ways to void users' warranties when installing custom firmwares/roms on their phones.
Unfortunately, I didn't give myself enough time to read about Samsung's crap being very busy lately.
You're pretty lucky if you bought a phone with a 4.2.2 firmware (I9500 in my case). You do have a binary counter as much as I can recall, but it's not as big of a deal as KNOX (and warranty bit, you can find that in your download mode) which was introduced in the OTA (i.e 4.3 firmware).
I strongly recommend not to update your phone to 4.3, and I will list the reasons why; but I want to give some tips beforehand.
Make a full nandroid backup if you're planning to change roms. It is very important to have your factory firmware with you; you will need it at some point. Keep it in a safe place.
Backup your EFS folder and keep it in a safe place too. Your EFS has your IMEI, MAC address, serial number and many other important things. There are many ways to backup your EFS folder.
Do NOT use a custom recovery to back it up for you.
Open Dialer, write *#1234# and take a screenshot of (or write down) the version numbers of AP, CP and CSC (which correspond with PDA, PHONE (MODEM) and CSC respectively).
Keep at least 2-3 GB free in your internal storage before flashing any rom.
Some ROMs like MIUI are flashed through ODIN. What happens is that CWM is installed by flashing the .tar file supplied by MIUI and CWM in-turn flashes the ROM. Do not use that method. Flash the zip file from your custom recovery instead. Don't forget to wipe cache/data before flashing the rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are lucky if you have 4.2.2. Why? Read on.​As mentioned earlier, Samsung introduced a new KNOX security system to which our knowledge is limited so far. The flash counter has been replaced with that annoying KNOX. We don't know where the Boolean flag is store yet (some people claim it is an eFuse); but the truth is still unknown (to my limited knowledge anyway ).
The new update to 4.3 added a line in the Odin Mode, which is "Warranty bit: 0x[0|1]".
* A bit of 0x0 means that KNOX is still active.
* A bit of 0x1 means that KNOX is inactive.
The Warranty bit gets triggered (0x1) when you flash a custom recovery, custom ROM or root. [Some even say that it happens even if you flash a stock firmware through ODIN (someone please confirm that).]
More information about the KNOX behavior can be found here.
Enough about KNOX, now what is your advantage?
Being on a 4.2.2 firmware does trigger your binary counter when flashing custom ROMs. For I9505 users, it is easy to reset using Triangle Away. For us I9500 users, we don't really have one yet (maybe never), but we can still flash official firmwares or custom ROMs, and Samsung probably will not even bother looking at the counter. Worst cases, you could upgrade to 4.3 which will eliminate the flash counter but will get you in a bigger hole, the KNOX monster.
No matter what you go through, do not update to the official 4.3. Use a custom ROM instead. Most (if not all) of the 4.3 custom ROMs have KNOX security disabled. So you will have a 4.3 ROM without the KNOX (Warranty bit) hassle.
In-case you need an official firmware, find yours on Sammobile or Samsung-Updates and choose the 4.2.2 one.
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Click to collapse
Errors with IMEI, serial number, etc. ("Emergency calls only" error).​You may face times when you flash different ROMs that either a bad flash corrupted your EFS or simply something in your modem got messed up. Check your system status after each flash (Settings -> About -> Status).
An IMEI that is either 0 or starts with 0049, signifies an error and will leave your phone in a state where you can make "Emergency calls only".
In-case of an IMEI with 0049, I would suggest flashing your modem again. Remember the first nandroid backup you did? Go to your recovery (PhilZ touch or CWM) -> Custom Backup and Restore and choose modem. This should fix your issue.
If the solution above does not do it for you, restore the EFS you had backed up before.
Q: I did not have any backup of my factory firmware. What should I do now?
A: Try to find your Factory CP (modem). A collection of modems could be found here. Otherwise, you can find some informative things in here which will tell you more details about your country specific firmware.
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I will keep on adding more things but for the time being, I hope this was informative and helped you in anyway.
Please let me know if I said anything wrong or missed any important details.
Thank you!
Best regards,
Claude

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Some useful information thanks

I wish this post existed before which would basically prevent me from buying S4. I was told about this issue however I was naive and decided to buy S4 from the store thinking that all the new devices have 4.2.2 and the old bootloader. To my surprise when I took the new device from the box and loaded to download mode it already had the bootloader with the KNOX.

anubius said:
I wish this post existed before which would basically prevent me from buying S4.
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Click to collapse
Yeah, luckily I'm still on 4.2.2 with custom rom (foxhound) because I was really happy with it and therefore I didn't read the S4 at all but today I decided to upgrade to Kitkat and discovered this new Knox crap.
Is it possible for me to format the phone, put it on 4.2.2 stock and then root and flash custom rom again? Because my internal sd is full of old folders and files from previous roms.

PedroFlaxh said:
Yeah, luckily I'm still on 4.2.2 with custom rom (foxhound) because I was really happy with it and therefore I didn't read the S4 at all but today I decided to upgrade to Kitkat and discovered this new Knox crap.
Is it possible for me to format the phone, put it on 4.2.2 stock and then root and flash custom rom again? Because my internal sd is full of old folders and files from previous roms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even if you manage to install an 4.2.2 rom Knox will still be 0x1. But users from European Union like you are not affected by Knox 0x1. Rooting your device does not lead to warranty void.

PedroFlaxh said:
Yeah, luckily I'm still on 4.2.2 with custom rom (foxhound) because I was really happy with it and therefore I didn't read the S4 at all but today I decided to upgrade to Kitkat and discovered this new Knox crap.
Is it possible for me to format the phone, put it on 4.2.2 stock and then root and flash custom rom again? Because my internal sd is full of old folders and files from previous roms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I've read it is impossible to downgrade to older version since new bootloader prevents it. Your only option is to join the dark side by installing CWM and install custom roms but you will have 0x1. However as mentioned in the previous post the warranty should still work since you are in EU, however you never know with Samsung. Time will tell.

Related

Different baseband version can use the same root ?

So does different baseband can use the same root ? I mean like 4.1.2 version of a same model, S2, but different baseband version for example DXLS2 and XWLSW. The baseband are different because of the country. Mine is in Malaysia. Help ?
Sure you can ! Root is independent of your baseband version. :good:
ckr1986 said:
Sure you can ! Root is independent of your baseband version. :good:
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You sure ? Im really scare of bricking my phone. I failed to flash stock rom yesterday and i got it fix back by the centre. They say you cant fix a failed rooted phone !
mwck said:
You sure ? Im really scare of bricking my phone. I failed to flash stock rom yesterday and i got it fix back by the centre. They say you cant fix a failed rooted phone !
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Click to collapse
Yup..rooting gives you access to the system files on your device giving you the ability to mod/tweak stuff.
Baseband is basically the modem software that your phone uses for network access, ie, calling, data and stuff.
Note that incase you are flashing various custom ROMs, unless specified , the baseband remains unchanged.
That said, it is always good and safe to make a backup of your essential files/docs incase anything goes wrong.
ckr1986 said:
Yup..rooting gives you access to the system files on your device giving you the ability to mod/tweak stuff.
Baseband is basically the modem software that your phone uses for network access, ie, calling, data and stuff.
Note that incase you are flashing various custom ROMs, unless specified , the baseband remains unchanged.
That said, it is always good and safe to make a backup of your essential files/docs incase anything goes wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what about flashing clockwokrecovery ? well my version now which i update it from kies, when enters into recovery mode, it doesnt gives you the option to install zip from sd card, i cant install the root file. and from my research, i have to flash other roms in order to get that option. i flashed it yesterday and got my phone stuck. im scared it will happen again
Go through this thread ... they give step by step instructions on how to root and also how to install a custom rom
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2419562

[Q] G920I

I have jailbroken many an iphone and ipod, and I have recently bought the S6. I am keen to root but it seems far more potentially troublsome, and far less straightforward, or maybe its just because I am learning for the first time.
I bought this in New Zealand from Spark. I assume it is locked?
Is the bootloader locked?
I couldnt find the matching build on Chainfire, Can this particular model be rooted?
Is there any guide to rooting? It seems all the information is spread out all over the place and no definitive guide and FAQ.
I can't even find the original stock rom.
Is rooting not similar to jailbreaking in the way it is done?
My specs:
Model: SM-G920I
Android: 5.0.2
Build: LRX22G.G920IDVU1AOD1
Thank you in advance.
AAANNNDDDYYY said:
I have jailbroken many an iphone and ipod, and I have recently bought the S6. I am keen to root but it seems far more potentially troublsome, and far less straightforward, or maybe its just because I am learning for the first time.
I bought this in New Zealand from Spark. I assume it is locked?
Is the bootloader locked?
I couldnt find the matching build on Chainfire, Can this particular model be rooted?
Is there any guide to rooting? It seems all the information is spread out all over the place and no definitive guide and FAQ.
I can't even find the original stock rom.
Is rooting not similar to jailbreaking in the way it is done?
My specs:
Model: SM-G920I
Android: 5.0.2
Build: LRX22G.G920IDVU1AOD1
Thank you in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the SM-G920I and it's rooted.
Rooting the G920I is apparently not as straightforward as others but still possible.
I had to flash TWRP via Odin, then flash the [BETA][2015.04.28] SuperSU v2.49 package via recovery.
Details when I get back from work, or some kind soul decides to help.
There is a stock image thread and a few stock roms floating around. Request / search lower down in that thread
Thanks, is it better to reset the s6 before rooting? For a clean root?
And about all the warnings about 'you do this at your own risk blah blah'. If you do everything properly how could you actually hard brick the device? If you do it properly the worst that should happen is a soft brick, in which case you just restore the phone and try again right?
AAANNNDDDYYY said:
Thanks, is it better to reset the s6 before rooting? For a clean root?
And about all the warnings about 'you do this at your own risk blah blah'. If you do everything properly how could you actually hard brick the device? If you do it properly the worst that should happen is a soft brick, in which case you just restore the phone and try again right?
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Here is my experience, a fellow kiwi on Spark (with a 2D branded phone). I too have the 920I running on A0D1 via OTA.
It is unlikely Spark firmwares have locked bootloaders.
So long as you can get to download mode (holding volume down, home and the power button for up to 10 seconds), you can bring your phone back to life if something goes wrong . You will want a copy of Spark's firmware handy before you start, you can get it from here . Just in case.
Use the USB cable that come with your phone and make sure you have the drivers installed.
Any ways, first I flashed TWRP via Odin (through download mode Andy), flash was successful, however booting into recovery hung my phone. Managed to get back to download mode from there and flashed CF-Root for 920I. Boot loop.
Back to download mode and flashed CF-Root for 920F. Success, rooted and booted. Andy, if all you are looking for is root, avoiding the TWRP flash may work and going straight to CF-Root. Others have had issues with this, I'm not sure. I'd try the 920I first and if no good try the 920F. Again, as long as you can get to download mode, you can flash Sparks firmware through Odin to restore it to stock. Good luck and remember, attempting any of this WILL trip KNOX. If your using this as a company phone, you will run into issues. Can't imagine we will see Samsung pay any time soon in NZ.
For those interested in TWRP, after the root was obtained, my recovery was still busted. I flashed the TWRP image via Flashify and now I have also have TWRP. Good times.
Thanks mate, it all seems quite confusing, makes me want to go back to Iphone hahaha. I am not a dev, I just like the freedom to be able to do whatever I damn well please on my phone that I paid for.
This tutorial the way to go?
youtube.com/watch?v=BW5P8zqkFpY
AAANNNDDDYYY said:
Thanks mate, it all seems quite confusing, makes me want to go back to Iphone hahaha. I am not a dev, I just like the freedom to be able to do whatever I damn well please on my phone that I paid for.
This tutorial the way to go?
youtube.com/watch?v=BW5P8zqkFpY
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What the chap did in that video was exactly what my original plan was to root and install TWRP. Where I got stuck is the TWRP recovery hung so I couldn't flash SuperSU. Good run down of the basics of flashing with Odin though.
What I did after the recovery got stuck was return to download mode and flash CF-Root again through Odin (same process as in the video). The one for the 920I didn't actually work (boot loop), the 920F CF-Root worked fine though. Probably has something to do with these CF-Roots having been build on a older firmware as you noted in your OP. Then, once you have root, you can flash a custom recovery (such as TWRP) through Flashify (available on Play Store).
It certainly can be confusing with all the trial and error reported in these forums, this is largely because the devices are new. The Devs' will iron out the bugs in due course making the process much simpler. You could wait a few weeks and check back, or grab yourself a stock Spark firmware and have a crack. Flashing this trough Odin will return you to stock provided you can get your phone to download mode. No responsibility from my end.
Another thing, you will lose OTA updates. You will find newer firmwares here as they get released, to update its as simple as flashing them through Odin.
Yes the G920I listed on Chainfires site is for the AOC6 build, but I am on the AOD1 build.
Another thing, should i factory reset before rooting?
AAANNNDDDYYY said:
Yes the G920I listed on Chainfires site is for the AOC6 build, but I am on the AOD1 build.
Another thing, should i factory reset before rooting?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah, don't bother. The process will retain all your settings and data too.
So just confirm that i can root my g920I with build AOD1 with this meathod?
---------- Post added at 05:45 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:33 PM ----------
d0ce said:
What the chap did in that video was exactly what my original plan was to root and install TWRP. Where I got stuck is the TWRP recovery hung so I couldn't flash SuperSU. Good run down of the basics of flashing with Odin though.
What I did after the recovery got stuck was return to download mode and flash CF-Root again through Odin (same process as in the video). The one for the 920I didn't actually work (boot loop), the 920F CF-Root worked fine though. Probably has something to do with these CF-Roots having been build on a older firmware as you noted in your OP. Then, once you have root, you can flash a custom recovery (such as TWRP) through Flashify (available on Play Store).
It certainly can be confusing with all the trial and error reported in these forums, this is largely because the devices are new. The Devs' will iron out the bugs in due course making the process much simpler. You could wait a few weeks and check back, or grab yourself a stock Spark firmware and have a crack. Flashing this trough Odin will return you to stock provided you can get your phone to download mode. No responsibility from my end.
Another thing, you will lose OTA updates. You will find newer firmwares here as they get released, to update its as simple as flashing them through Odin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So just confirm that i can root my g920I with build AOD1 with this meathod?
d0ce said:
What the chap did in that video was exactly what my original plan was to root and install TWRP. Where I got stuck is the TWRP recovery hung so I couldn't flash SuperSU. Good run down of the basics of flashing with Odin though.
What I did after the recovery got stuck was return to download mode and flash CF-Root again through Odin (same process as in the video). The one for the 920I didn't actually work (boot loop), the 920F CF-Root worked fine though. Probably has something to do with these CF-Roots having been build on a older firmware as you noted in your OP. Then, once you have root, you can flash a custom recovery (such as TWRP) through Flashify (available on Play Store).
It certainly can be confusing with all the trial and error reported in these forums, this is largely because the devices are new. The Devs' will iron out the bugs in due course making the process much simpler. You could wait a few weeks and check back, or grab yourself a stock Spark firmware and have a crack. Flashing this trough Odin will return you to stock provided you can get your phone to download mode. No responsibility from my end.
Another thing, you will lose OTA updates. You will find newer firmwares here as they get released, to update its as simple as flashing them through Odin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So were you able to install TWRP?
CF Root works for me with 920I version, but flashing TWRP forces it not to boot past the Samsung Logo.
Likewise with flashing a custom kernel also forces it not to boot past the Samsung Logo
Im on the C4 Australia build.. thinking about trying to flash a later 920I build to see if it'll help
s3ct0r said:
So were you able to install TWRP?
CF Root works for me with 920I version, but flashing TWRP forces it not to boot past the Samsung Logo.
Likewise with flashing a custom kernel also forces it not to boot past the Samsung Logo
Im on the C4 Australia build.. thinking about trying to flash a later 920I build to see if it'll help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did someone figure this out? I have the Sm-920i and I get stuck at the Samsung splash screen after flashing twrp! So I have to Odin the cf-auto-root... I've tried flashify also... It won't work... Stuck @ Galaxy S6 screen what gives is it the SM-920I OR ME? I have had many Galaxy phones in the past but this one is pissing me off
Kjc99 said:
Did someone figure this out? I have the Sm-920i and I get stuck at the Samsung splash screen after flashing twrp! So I have to Odin the cf-auto-root... I've tried flashify also... It won't work... Stuck @ Galaxy S6 screen what gives is it the SM-920I OR ME? I have had many Galaxy phones in the past but this one is pissing me off
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah flash the New Zealand 1D firmware and TWRP will work perfectly. But note that to get root, you will have to use cf-auto-root for the 920G Model
Best of luck
s3ct0r said:
Yeah flash the New Zealand 1D firmware and TWRP will work perfectly. But note that to get root, you will have to use cf-auto-root for the 920G Model
Best of luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How come it has to be the New Zealand? I'm trying to backup my carriers crappy baked rom just in case I need to return... Is there anyway to back it up without a custom recovery but rooted? Because if I flash the new Zealand before making a backup and have to return they will see I have messed with the phone because they put a boot animation
Kjc99 said:
How come it has to be the New Zealand? I'm trying to backup my carriers crappy baked rom just in case I need to return... Is there anyway to back it up without a custom recovery but rooted? Because if I flash the new Zealand before making a backup and have to return they will see I have messed with the phone because they put a boot animation
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't have to be the New Zealand one, I just used it since I'm in Australia. Any 920I firmware should work just make sure it's at least 1D. I only tried those firmwares, and always had success
My carrier is GCI wireless in Alaska, USA... No way to download there firmware...also is twrp it? No more cwm or philz recovery?
Sorry forgot to add current firmware pic
s3ct0r said:
Doesn't have to be the New Zealand one, I just used it since I'm in Australia. Any 920I firmware should work just make sure it's at least 1D. I only tried those firmwares, and always had success
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Click to collapse
Cool thanks for the info!
Update thank you @s3ct0r...worked on the 1st try.... Now I'm working on the deep sleep issue...
Kjc99 said:
Update thank you @s3ct0r...worked on the 1st try.... Now I'm working on the deep sleep issue...
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Click to collapse
Flash the ktoonsez Kernel, or the flashable zip from the Cf-AutoRoot topic
s3ct0r said:
Flash the ktoonsez Kernel, or the flashable zip from the Cf-AutoRoot topic
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Click to collapse
Is ktoonsez a stable kernel, I remember using it on my S4 but skipped it last year on my S5 because it had to many tweaks... Can I use it with a stock rom? Alliance?

Odin problem cant downgrade help please

Im on 6.0.1 and i do not like it at all. Always been a fan of 5.1.1. I use odin to attempt a downgrade and it fails. Gives me the SW check, fail error every time. Also when i used flashfire itd work throughly and show the note 5 boot logo but thatd be all. Any help for me here? Really wanna go back to 5.1.1. Was able to get back on a rom and here i am. Hopefully someone can help me here.
If someone has a way to do this
If someone has any insight and links files to do this, please help me. Have not had a sammy since the note 2 so some of this is kinda new for me. Reason for wamtomg lollipop is i love lollipop over MM. Plus more rom options.
I had a similar problem. Rooted, could flash custom ROM's but couldn't ODIN flash back to stock. Found if I used the PAC from this site http://dl.samfirm.net/page/2 I could muscle through the flash. The PAC forced the PIT file, which formats the memory, unlike what recovery can do. Be sure all your files are backed-up because this will erase everything nd return your phone to stock (except knox).
They may charge a few dollars to download, but well worth it in my experience.
audscott said:
I had a similar problem. Rooted, could flash custom ROM's but couldn't ODIN flash back to stock. Found if I used the PAC from this site http://dl.samfirm.net/page/2 I could muscle through the flash. The PAC forced the PIT file, which formats the memory, unlike what recovery can do. Be sure all your files are backed-up because this will erase everything nd return your phone to stock (except knox).
They may charge a few dollars to download, but well worth it in my experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! So i can do this to revert t9 5.1.1? Could you possibly mirror the files incase it does cost some $? I ask because im currently broke with i think $1 to my name and no access to online banking. Ohhh the joys of adulthood and bills hahaha
audscott said:
I had a similar problem. Rooted, could flash custom ROM's but couldn't ODIN flash back to stock. Found if I used the PAC from this site http://dl.samfirm.net/page/2 I could muscle through the flash. The PAC forced the PIT file, which formats the memory, unlike what recovery can do. Be sure all your files are backed-up because this will erase everything nd return your phone to stock (except knox).
They may charge a few dollars to download, but well worth it in my experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The PAC wont let me download i was able to get the pit however. Anychance you have the pac on a dropbox or something? Please and thankyou in advance

Already rooted Samsung J5 - general inquiry

Hello guys. I just bought a used Samsung Galaxy J5 (SM-J500FN) with android version 5.1.1. The previous owner told me that it is rooted. Nothing seems weird with the phone other than when i try to factory reset it it takes me to a "bios" kind window where i have to manually choose to delete all data (hard delete i think its called), that and when i normally turn on the phone, at the top left corner it says "set warranty bit kernel". I was just wondering how do i go about installing custom roms since its already rooted, and can i unblock the default carriers (T-mobile) block for other sim cards. When asked how he rooted it (what method was he using) he said he just used Odin. I dont know much about rooting so, whatever you can tell me as to the handling of the phone would be amazing. Any other guides to installing some custom roms and making the phone easier and faster ( i only want functionality, don't care much about the UI) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
luan96 said:
Hello guys. I just bought a used Samsung Galaxy J5 (SM-J500FN) with android version 5.1.1. The previous owner told me that it is rooted. Nothing seems weird with the phone other than when i try to factory reset it it takes me to a "bios" kind window where i have to manually choose to delete all data (hard delete i think its called), that and when i normally turn on the phone, at the top left corner it says "set warranty bit kernel". I was just wondering how do i go about installing custom roms since its already rooted, and can i unblock the default carriers (T-mobile) block for other sim cards. When asked how he rooted it (what method was he using) he said he just used Odin. I dont know much about rooting so, whatever you can tell me as to the handling of the phone would be amazing. Any other guides to installing some custom roms and making the phone easier and faster ( i only want functionality, don't care much about the UI) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For starters, I'd head over the J5 forum
Galaxy J5 Forums
Or here's a great post that includes a lot of stuff to get started on reading:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-j5/how-to/galaxy-j5-root-twrp-roms-news-tips-t3620892
But the basics are: To flash a custom ROM, research what a custom recovery is, how to flash a custom recovery to your phone model and after that, flashing a custom ROM is as easy as loading the .zip file to your SD card and selecting it in the custom recovery.
I'd also research on how to flash to stock, as this is a life-saver in case you accidentally do something wrong. Pretty much you need to know how to flash via Odin (yes, learning how to use Odin is important to us Samsung users).
Don't worry though, it's not that big of a pain, Odin is pretty easy to learn
ShaDisNX255 said:
For starters, I'd head over the J5 forum
Galaxy J5 Forums
Or here's a great post that includes a lot of stuff to get started on reading:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-j5/how-to/galaxy-j5-root-twrp-roms-news-tips-t3620892
But the basics are: To flash a custom ROM, research what a custom recovery is, how to flash a custom recovery to your phone model and after that, flashing a custom ROM is as easy as loading the .zip file to your SD card and selecting it in the custom recovery.
I'd also research on how to flash to stock, as this is a life-saver in case you accidentally do something wrong. Pretty much you need to know how to flash via Odin (yes, learning how to use Odin is important to us Samsung users).
Don't worry though, it's not that big of a pain, Odin is pretty easy to learn
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I love about Samsung, as long as you have your ducks in a row, the files and tools are extremely easy to use, a 4 year old could do it.
I DO NOT PROVIDE HELP IN PM, KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
ShaDisNX255 said:
For starters, I'd head over the J5 forum
Galaxy J5 Forums
Or here's a great post that includes a lot of stuff to get started on reading:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-j5/how-to/galaxy-j5-root-twrp-roms-news-tips-t3620892
But the basics are: To flash a custom ROM, research what a custom recovery is, how to flash a custom recovery to your phone model and after that, flashing a custom ROM is as easy as loading the .zip file to your SD card and selecting it in the custom recovery.
I'd also research on how to flash to stock, as this is a life-saver in case you accidentally do something wrong. Pretty much you need to know how to flash via Odin (yes, learning how to use Odin is important to us Samsung users).
Don't worry though, it's not that big of a pain, Odin is pretty easy to learn
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, ill be sure to check them out. Although, i would like to do the entire process from the beginning (root it again myself since i have no idea what the previous owner has done) and then try to install custom roms and other cool features rooting offers. I read that the KNOX security on samsung phones can pose some problems, any thoughts on that ?
Thank you again for your response.
ShaDisNX255 said:
For starters, I'd head over the J5 forum
Galaxy J5 Forums
Or here's a great post that includes a lot of stuff to get started on reading:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-j5/how-to/galaxy-j5-root-twrp-roms-news-tips-t3620892
But the basics are: To flash a custom ROM, research what a custom recovery is, how to flash a custom recovery to your phone model and after that, flashing a custom ROM is as easy as loading the .zip file to your SD card and selecting it in the custom recovery.
I'd also research on how to flash to stock, as this is a life-saver in case you accidentally do something wrong. Pretty much you need to know how to flash via Odin (yes, learning how to use Odin is important to us Samsung users).
Don't worry though, it's not that big of a pain, Odin is pretty easy to learn
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also, i use Linux so i hear the alternative to Odin is Heimdall, anyone have any experience with it, or should i just do it on a Windows PC?
luan96 said:
Also, i use Linux so i hear the alternative to Odin is Heimdall, anyone have any experience with it, or should i just do it on a Windows PC?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've got no experience with Linux, sorry. SuperSU disables knox so there's nothing to worry about.
luan96 said:
Also, i use Linux so i hear the alternative to Odin is Heimdall, anyone have any experience with it, or should i just do it on a Windows PC?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're a Linux user and you have knowledge of using terminal commands then you should have no trouble setting up Hiemdall. Getting full USB functionality set up for the device in Hiemdall can be a pain if you aren't familiar with that kind of thing.
But, having a Windows PC will make a lot of things very simplified for you. A Windows/Linux dual boot system would be very handy to you if you can set that up. Then you could also use Kies/SmartSwitch if it ever comes to a point that you need it.
There are some handy rarely used instances with Linux when it comes to Samsung. They have no fastboot like other devices so only adb is usable. I think they primarily centered around Windows being the preferred OS to interact with their devices.
Droidriven said:
If you're a Linux user and you have knowledge of using terminal commands then you should have no trouble setting up Hiemdall. Getting full USB functionality set up for the device in Hiemdall can be a pain if you aren't familiar with that kind of thing.
But, having a Windows PC will make a lot of things very simplified for you. A Windows/Linux dual boot system would be very handy to you if you can set that up. Then you could also use Kies/SmartSwitch if it ever comes to a point that you need it.
There are some handy rarely used instances with Linux when it comes to Samsung. They have no fastboot like other devices so only adb is usable. I think they primarily centered around Windows being the preferred OS to interact with their devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the info. I already have a dual boot on my pc with windows. I am an experienced Linux user and setting up Hiemdall should not pose a problem, but i opted to go for Windows since as you said makes things simpler.
Still looking for guides and tutorials on how exactly the root process goes. Doing research, so i guess its going to be a late night. If you have any links or pages you can guide me to for my Samsung J5 it would be amazing. Right now am looking around this forum and wherever the links lead me.
Thank you again.
luan96 said:
Thank you for the info. I already have a dual boot on my pc with windows. I am an experienced Linux user and setting up Hiemdall should not pose a problem, but i opted to go for Windows since as you said makes things simpler.
Still looking for guides and tutorials on how exactly the root process goes. Doing research, so i guess its going to be a late night. If you have any links or pages you can guide me to for my Samsung J5 it would be amazing. Right now am looking around this forum and wherever the links lead me.
Thank you again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, just to make sure that you are not walking blindly into some potential traps.
1) download the root checker app from Playstore, use it to verify whether the device is actually rooted.
2) power the device off, wait 5 seconds, hold volume up+home+power, when it boots past the logo, let go. It should boot to recovery, tell me what you see. Does it say TWRP with grey buttons on a black screen? Or does it have an android lying on his back and have options listed?
3) verify whether or not the bootloader is unlocked or not on your specific device model number with your specific build number/android version, if it's locked it will create problems if you try to flash custom recovery. Though you can flash CF autoroot with locked bootloader.
Then I'll help find what you need to do what you are looking to do. It may be simpler than you think.
If he in fact used Odin and the device is rooted, he did one of three things.
1) flashed custom recovery(TWRP) via Odin then flashed SuperSU.zip to root, not possible with locked bootloader.
2) flashed CF auto root via Odin, potentially leaving stock recovery if your bootloader is locked.
3) flashed a pre-rooted stock firmware via Odin, not likely though.
The first 2 being more likely than the last one, the second one being the most likely if your bootloader is locked.
Edit: @luan96, edited for more information.
I DO NOT PROVIDE HELP IN PM, KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
@Droidriven Thank you for the info. After a rough night of research i realized what i need to do. According to root checker, my phone is not rooted, and the recovery seems to be stock. This is very weird, since the phone is obviously not just the stock version that came from T Mobile. Im guessing its probably a badly done root or one that was removed. Anyways, this is how i am planing to proceed:
1. Turn on OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging from developer versions
2. Download CM Autoroot for my specific phone ( i do not know what is the difference between "normal" root and autoroot, but autoroot seems to be simpler and offers the same thing. Please correct me if i am wrong, i would love to know how to do a manual root as well if it has more benefits).
3. Volume down+home+power to get to the download screen
4. Launch Odin that comes with the autoroot package
5. Plug my phone into the USB and wait for Odin to add it.
6. Select the autoroot md5 file from the folder and begin the flashing process
7. Hope for the best and that my phone is still functional when it auto reboots.
After this i should check with Root Checker weather its properly installed or not. If it is, and i see the SuperSU application i continue to installing the custom recovery ( through some research i found out that TWRP is the best choice for me). Installing the custom recovery should be as easy as auto rooting the device. I should download the files from an official website, and flash them using the same process i did for AutoRoot.
After that its mod heaven. With my understanding so far, TWRP lets me install custom roms, and other things i might need.
This is what i plan on doing as soon as im done with a little more research. If anyone has any tips, corrections or general information on what to expect or do please share.
Many thanks to every contributor on this thread.
luan96 said:
@Droidriven Thank you for the info. After a rough night of research i realized what i need to do. According to root checker, my phone is not rooted, and the recovery seems to be stock. This is very weird, since the phone is obviously not just the stock version that came from T Mobile. Im guessing its probably a badly done root or one that was removed. Anyways, this is how i am planing to proceed:
2. Download CM Autoroot for my specific phone ( i do not know what is the difference between "normal" root and autoroot, but autoroot seems to be simpler and offers the same thing. Please correct me if i am wrong, i would love to know how to do a manual root as well if it has more benefits).
3. Volume down+home+power to get to the download screen
4. Launch Odin that comes with the autoroot package
5. Plug my phone into the USB and wait for Odin to add it.
6. Select the autoroot md5 file from the folder and begin the flashing process
7. Hope for the best and that my phone is still functional when it auto reboots.
After this i should check with Root Checker weather its properly installed or not. If it is, and i see the SuperSU application i continue to installing the custom recovery ( through some research i found out that TWRP is the best choice for me). Installing the custom recovery should be as easy as auto rooting the device. I should download the files from an official website, and flash them using the same process i did for AutoRoot.
After that its mod heaven. With my understanding so far, TWRP lets me install custom roms, and other things i might need.
This is what i plan on doing as soon as im done with a little more research. If anyone has any tips, corrections or general information on what to expect or do please share.
Many thanks to every contributor on this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would recommend using the command line to flash the twrp instead of the GUI if you want a simple process in linux
Run a terminal as a superuser (sudo)
heimdall flash –RECOVERY filename.img
Do step 1 and 3 you gave before before doing this
Or just flash the twrp image using Odin
J500FN twrp
https://dl.twrp.me/j5nltexx/
-Hope- said:
I would recommend using the command line to flash the twrp instead of the GUI if you want a simple process in linux
Run a terminal as a superuser (sudo)
heimdall flash –RECOVERY filename.img
Do step 1 and 3 you gave before before doing this
Or just flash the twrp image using Odin
J500FN twrp
https://dl.twrp.me/j5nltexx/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm going to use Odin for this. Since I'm quite new to the rooting community I dont want to mess things up on the first try. I'd rather get comfortable with some standard stuff before I proceed to try different variations. Thank you for your input. Though I would still like to know if I should use cm auto root or do a manual root. The difference is not quite clear to me yet. Again, thank you for your input, it is appreciated.
luan96 said:
@Droidriven Thank you for the info. After a rough night of research i realized what i need to do. According to root checker, my phone is not rooted, and the recovery seems to be stock. This is very weird, since the phone is obviously not just the stock version that came from T Mobile. Im guessing its probably a badly done root or one that was removed. Anyways, this is how i am planing to proceed:
1. Turn on OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging from developer versions
2. Download CM Autoroot for my specific phone ( i do not know what is the difference between "normal" root and autoroot, but autoroot seems to be simpler and offers the same thing. Please correct me if i am wrong, i would love to know how to do a manual root as well if it has more benefits).
3. Volume down+home+power to get to the download screen
4. Launch Odin that comes with the autoroot package
5. Plug my phone into the USB and wait for Odin to add it.
6. Select the autoroot md5 file from the folder and begin the flashing process
7. Hope for the best and that my phone is still functional when it auto reboots.
After this i should check with Root Checker weather its properly installed or not. If it is, and i see the SuperSU application i continue to installing the custom recovery ( through some research i found out that TWRP is the best choice for me). Installing the custom recovery should be as easy as auto rooting the device. I should download the files from an official website, and flash them using the same process i did for AutoRoot.
After that its mod heaven. With my understanding so far, TWRP lets me install custom roms, and other things i might need.
This is what i plan on doing as soon as im done with a little more research. If anyone has any tips, corrections or general information on what to expect or do please share.
Many thanks to every contributor on this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing CF autoroot will simplify rooting, again, just make sure you have the correct autoroot for your specific model number and firmware, flashing the wrong one can softbrick or hardbrick your device, this would require flashing stock firmware via Odin to repair if softbricked and more serious methods to restore if hardbricked. There isn't much difference in effect with the different rooting methods. They all get the job done about equally.
Just make sure that you verify that your bootloader is in fact unlocked BEFORE you flash TWRP. As stated earlier, if it is locked, it will certainly cause issues and you'll have to restore stock recovery and/or stock firmware.
As long as your bootloader is unlocked then your outlined plan should be good to go.
I DO NOT PROVIDE HELP IN PM, KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
Droidriven said:
Flashing CF autoroot will simplify rooting, afain, just make sure you have the correct autoroot for your specific model number and firmware, flashing the wrong one can softbrick or hardbrick your device, this would require flashing stock firmware via Odin to repair if softbricked and more serious methods to restore if hardbricked. There isn't much difference in effect with the different rooting methods. They all get the job done about equally.
Just make sure that you verify that your bootloader is in fact unlocked BEFORE you flash TWRP. As stated earlier, if it is locked, it will certainly cause issues and you'll have to restore stock recovery and/or stock firmware.
As long as you're bootloader is unlocked then your outlined plan should be good to go.
I DO NOT PROVIDE HELP IN PM, KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, looks like i messed up somehow. I was fiddling around the recovery mode and Odin mode. Those were the only two screens i could view besides normal booting, so i was looking for any info.
Recovery Mode https://ibb.co/hotYZ5
Odin mode 1 https://ibb.co/nFfVE5
Once on the recovery mode, i selected "reboot to bootloader" hoping to find info if its locked or not. I got redirected to this screen
Odin Mode 2 https://ibb.co/kqhtZ5
And then i did what i think is the dumbest thing this year....i removed the batery and now when i try to turn on my phone -
Blocked https://ibb.co/kkOd1k
Please tell me i did not brick my phone without even trying to root it first. My understanding is that i accidentally wiped the current OS (softbrick?) and now i have to flash a new one and then continue with what i had planned. Or is this a small problem that can be fixed easier? Or a more serious one ? Good news tho maybe, i think that the bootloader is unlocked ?
Thank you @Droidriven for your info so far, you have been extremely helpful.
*EDIT* - Pictures didnt link correctly.
luan96 said:
Well, looks like i messed up somehow. I was fiddling around the recovery mode and Odin mode. Those were the only two screens i could view besides normal booting, so i was looking for any info.
Recovery Mode https://ibb.co/hotYZ5
Odin mode 1 https://ibb.co/nFfVE5
Once on the recovery mode, i selected "reboot to bootloader" hoping to find info if its locked or not. I got redirected to this screen
Odin Mode 2 https://ibb.co/kqhtZ5
And then i did what i think is the dumbest thing this year....i removed the batery and now when i try to turn on my phone -
Blocked https://ibb.co/kkOd1k
Please tell me i did not brick my phone without even trying to root it first. My understanding is that i accidentally wiped the current OS (softbrick?) and now i have to flash a new one and then continue with what i had planned. Or is this a small problem that can be fixed easier? Or a more serious one ? Good news tho maybe, i think that the bootloader is unlocked ?
Thank you @Droidriven for your info so far, you have been extremely helpful.
*EDIT* - Pictures didnt link correctly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks to me like they attempted to root the device but didn't do it correctly.
FRP can be a pain to deal with. Some can be bypassed easily, those that have trouble bypassing must sign in with the original owner's original Gmail and password used to activate the device.
The method of bypassing FRP varies from device to device.
Did you factory reset in recovery? If so, that's why you FRP blocked you.
If you have stock recovery then you should not have been able to wipe out the OS using stock recovery, typically, only custom recovery can do that, unless you did something accidentally that somehow corrupted/wiped your OS.
If the OS is gone, you'll have to flash your stock firmware via Odin and start over from the beginning.
I DO NOT PROVIDE HELP IN PM, KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
Droidriven said:
It looks to me like they attempted to root the device but didn't do it correctly.
FRP can be a pain to deal with. Some can be bypassed easily, those that have trouble bypassing must sign in with the original owner's original Gmail and password used to activate the device.
The method of bypassing FRP varies from device to device.
Did you factory reset in recovery? If so, that's why you FRP blocked you.
If you have stock recovery then you should not have been able to wipe out the OS using stock recovery, typically, only custom recovery can do that, unless you did something accidentally that somehow corrupted/wiped your OS.
If the OS is gone, you'll have to flash your stock firmware via Odin and start over from the beginning.
I DO NOT PROVIDE HELP IN PM, KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. At least its not just a paperweight. I'm installing new software on it with Kiesk 3 right now. Hope that works so i can do the rooting and TWRP install soon. I pressed "reboot to bootlader" to try and find out if its locked or not, but then it got me in download mode (without having to press up volume to contionue). After i turned off my phone by removing the battery, the OS was gone.
luan96 said:
Thank you. At least its not just a paperweight. I'm installing new software on it with Kiesk 3 right now. Hope that works so i can do the rooting and TWRP install soon. I pressed "reboot to bootlader" to try and find out if its locked or not, but then it got me in download mode (without having to press up volume to contionue). After i turned off my phone by removing the battery, the OS was gone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you get this restored with Kies?
Droidriven said:
Did you get this restored with Kies?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, i did. Worked like a charm, and even got the new 6.0.1 android on it. Also installed TWRP, and just finished installing Xposed Framework, now waiting for it to boot up ( i hear it takes some time). Seems all well so far. If any problems pop out ill be sure to post about it. Also thinking about making a new thread just to help newbies like me who really just want to remove some bloatware, and install some nice modules and not heavily mod the phone. You have been very helpful during this process. Many thanks to you ^-^ .
luan96 said:
Yes, i did. Worked like a charm, and even got the new 6.0.1 android on it. Also installed TWRP, and just finished installing Xposed Framework, now waiting for it to boot up ( i hear it takes some time). Seems all well so far. If any problems pop out ill be sure to post about it. Also thinking about making a new thread just to help newbies like me who really just want to remove some bloatware, and install some nice modules and not heavily mod the phone. You have been very helpful during this process. Many thanks to you ^-^ .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have issues with Xposed causing a bootloop, you can flash the Xposed uninstaller zip in TWRP to remove it, then troubleshoot why it bootlooped and try again.
Are you using the Touch wiz marshmallow Xposed framework?
I DO NOT PROVIDE HELP IN PM, KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE

Stock UK S7 Bootloop (Unrooted) Need help!!!

I've looked through the forums to identify a similar problem to mine in hopes I can resolve this issue but I've not found one. So here's my problem.
I have a UK Galaxy S7 running on the 6.0 firmware that came with the phone when it first released (Yes I know it's very old and should have updated along the way but I had plans to root and install customs at some point which obviously didn't happen). The phone is unrooted and the stock rom is the XEU version with Multi-CSC (according to recovery)
The phone was running fine until a few days ago when all of a sudden it shut off and wouldn't power on via the power button. So I pressed and held Home + Volume Down + Power. The green screen appeared and selected Volume Down to restart the device (as you do in odd situations like this).
PHONE IS NOW STUCK IN BOOTLOOP!!!
I have tried various means (not including flashing) to get the phone to boot to the home screen with no success. I have not performed a factory reset from recovery because I have various data, including pictures, music and other software on the internal storage which I wish to keep and not lose. The phone is still under warranty so I can take it to a Samsung repair outlet to get them to fix it for me but due to data privacy or whatever, they have to format it clean to then install the most recent firmware.
I've been scouring the forums for help on flashing OTA updates which retain data on phone whilst possibly allowing my phone to boot into the home screen so I can access my data. Is such a thing possible?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
You can flash the latest firmware without losing data (as long as the hardware is not faulty) by downloading it from either sammobile, updato.com or using the samfirm tool here on XDA (Fastest option)
Then extract the firmware and add all 4 parts to ODIN 3.12.7 (Do not use ODIN 3.13.1 unless you want to flash BTU Oreo 8.0)
AP << (Takes quite a long time to add, be patient as ODIN will look frozen)
BL
CP
HOME_CSC
If you use CSC instead of HOME_CSC it will wipe the device after the flash, HOME_CSC will not wipe it
Put the phone into download mode (Home & Power & Volume Down)
Connect to PC USB and hit start on ODIN
Wait for the flash to complete (It can take quite a while) and the phone should hopefully boot back into Android
Thank you for the quick response.
It's imperative I get this right and ensure I've understood your reply correctly.
I have downloaded the following:
SM-G930F_1_20180417125627_cz5yqc22v0_fac - from SamFirm as it was much quicker like you said.
Odin3+v3.12.7 - This particular version was quite difficult to get a hold of. Various sites redirecting me to various pages without a direct link to download but I hope that is the correct one.
The firmware zip contains the following files:
AP_G930FXXS2DRDI_CL12365438_QB17789072_REV00_user_low_ship_meta.tar -------1
BL_G930FXXS2DRDI_CL12365438_QB17789072_REV00_user_low_ship.tar -------2
CP_G930FXXU2DRB6_CL648265_QB8952207_SIGNED.tar -------3
CSC_XEU_G930FXEU2DRB5_CL13061583_QB16917099_REV00_user_low_ship.tar
HOME_CSC_XEU_G930FXEU2DRB5_CL13061583_QB16917099_REV00_user_low_ship.tar -------4
I have labelled the files 1-4 in the order of flashing/installation (I presume?)
I will also follow your instruction of flashing HOME_CSC_XEU_G930FXEU2DRB5_CL13061583_QB16917099_REV00_user_low_ship.tar as this will NOT wipe any existing data on the phone?
Will following the above steps act as an upgrade to the phone and not wipe apps/pictures etc in the internal storage?
Have I missed out any other steps?
Cassie` said:
Thank you for the quick response.
It's imperative I get this right and ensure I've understood your reply correctly.
I have downloaded the following:
SM-G930F_1_20180417125627_cz5yqc22v0_fac - from SamFirm as it was much quicker like you said.
Odin3+v3.12.7 - This particular version was quite difficult to get a hold of. Various sites redirecting me to various pages without a direct link to download but I hope that is the correct one.
The firmware zip contains the following files:
AP_G930FXXS2DRDI_CL12365438_QB17789072_REV00_user_low_ship_meta.tar -------1
BL_G930FXXS2DRDI_CL12365438_QB17789072_REV00_user_low_ship.tar -------2
CP_G930FXXU2DRB6_CL648265_QB8952207_SIGNED.tar -------3
CSC_XEU_G930FXEU2DRB5_CL13061583_QB16917099_REV00_user_low_ship.tar
HOME_CSC_XEU_G930FXEU2DRB5_CL13061583_QB16917099_REV00_user_low_ship.tar -------4
I have labelled the files 1-4 in the order of flashing/installation (I presume?)
I will also follow your instruction of flashing HOME_CSC_XEU_G930FXEU2DRB5_CL13061583_QB16917099_REV00_user_low_ship.tar as this will NOT wipe any existing data on the phone?
Will following the above steps act as an upgrade to the phone and not wipe apps/pictures etc in the internal storage?
Have I missed out any other steps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Almost, you must flash all 4 files at the same time, load them all into ODIN before hitting start, doesn't matter which order you load them in as long as they are all loaded before flashing
And you are correct with the rest, HOME_CSC will not wipe anything, and yes it will act as an upgrade although it is a full ROM you are flashing, to you the user, it will appear exactly the same as an upgrade as long as you use HOME_CSC
No other steps needed
I have loaded all 4 files as seen in the screenshot however, after clicking on Start, about 5 or so minutes later, it says FAIL in the first box above where it initially said RECOVERY. It's stopped and not done anything else.
I'm not sure what to do here.
I've also added a shot of the top left of odin screen
Cassie` said:
I have loaded all 4 files as seen in the screenshot however, after clicking on Start, about 5 or so minutes later, it says FAIL in the first box above where it initially said RECOVERY. It's stopped and not done anything else.
I'm not sure what to do here.
I've also added a shot of the top left of odin screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea it's failed, you can close ODIN and disconnect now
You can try doing it again, but that should have worked, you could try downloading the latest 6.0.1 ROM and flashing that the same way first, it looks like your bootloader is version 1 where this ROM is version 2 as shown by the S2 number in the middle of the firmware version
*Detection* said:
Yea it's failed, you can close ODIN and disconnect now
You can try doing it again, but that should have worked, you could try downloading the latest 6.0.1 ROM and flashing that the same way first, it looks like your bootloader is version 1 where this ROM is version 2 as shown by the S2 number in the middle of the firmware version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've gone to https://updato.com/firmware-archive-select-model?record=0DB04AD4C34211E69215FA163EE8F90B
From there I've selected the most recent 6.0.1 ROM which is dated 4th December 2016. Problem is that the download is EXTREMELY slow and I have no idea how to use SamFirm to download that particular ROM.
I guess all I can do now is play the waiting game and repeat the steps with the 6.0.1 ROM once it's downloaded.
Thank you for your responses and I will post back here once the download has finished.
Cassie` said:
I've gone to https://updato.com/firmware-archive-select-model?record=0DB04AD4C34211E69215FA163EE8F90B
From there I've selected the most recent 6.0.1 ROM which is dated 4th December 2016. Problem is that the download is EXTREMELY slow and I have no idea how to use SamFirm to download that particular ROM.
I guess all I can do now is play the waiting game and repeat the steps with the 6.0.1 ROM once it's downloaded.
Thank you for your responses and I will post back here once the download has finished.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea unfortunately all alternatives other than samfirm tool are slow, and samfirm only downloads the latest ROM
Judging by the bootloader version and the ROM version you have chosen, if this also fails, then I would assume a hardware failure
The only other thing I could suggest if this doesn't work, is to pick an older version of ODIN to flash the older firmware, ODIN 3.11.1 was used for MM 6.0.1 ROMs if I'm remembering correctly
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2711451
or
https://odindownloader.com/download/odin3-v3-11-1
I've restarted the device and it said An error has occurred while updating the device software use the emergency recovery function.
I attempted to reboot the phone a couple of times to get into recovery and I was successful. I now see the the Bootloader version is now 2 as opposed to 1. After seeing this I attempted to flash version 7 as initially suggested yet it did not work.
I'm not sure how Bootloader changed from 1 to 2 and is still failing to flash in odin. I am still waiting for the 6.0.1 ROM to download, fluctuating between 16-19 hours as of writing this response. Once it's ready I'll try and load up odin 3.11.1 as a second solution and try 6.0.1, even though Bootloader says 2.
Cassie` said:
I've restarted the device and it said An error has occurred while updating the device software use the emergency recovery function.
I attempted to reboot the phone a couple of times to get into recovery and I was successful. I now see the the Bootloader version is now 2 as opposed to 1. After seeing this I attempted to flash version 7 as initially suggested yet it did not work.
I'm not sure how Bootloader changed from 1 to 2 and is still failing to flash in odin. I am still waiting for the 6.0.1 ROM to download, fluctuating between 16-19 hours as of writing this response. Once it's ready I'll try and load up odin 3.11.1 as a second solution and try 6.0.1, even though Bootloader says 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your ODIN screenshot looks like it managed to flash the bootloader before it failed, so it's possible you are going to need to use a version 2 ROM from now on, I have the same phone, XEU G930F and it is running Bootloader version 2 (Running the BTU Oreo 8.0 stock ROM)
But if the 7.0 Nougat ROM failed again it's looking more like a hardware issue, seems to be failing when it should be starting to flash SYSTEM (AP)
You can try flashing the 7.0 ROM section AP on it's own with ODIN 3.12.7, see if that fails immediately, if it does that's likely where the problem lies, it's not unheard of for these S7's to fail like this out of the blue, I see it maybe a couple of times a month on XDA
Only solution is to get the mainboard replaced
But yea, give 6.0.1 a shot anyway, worth a try saying as everything else has failed up to now
(Looking for mirrors for that 6.0.1 ROM, I've got it on my main machine but it is offline right now with no graphics card so I can't access any files, stuck with a laptop, I always download and save every new firmware release for this reason)
There is Samsung SmartSwitch software for Windows for the emergency firmware recovery, but it WILL wipe your phone back to factory and delete all your data (Last resort if nothing else works, although if ODIN doesn't work, I'd say hardware failure)
Right so I've managed to download the most up to date 6.0.1 ROM and attempted to flash it with ODIN V3.11.1 and it idles at the recovery.img part and fails like the previous efforts.
I'm not sure if attempting to get OREO running with the latest ODIN might work? If not then I may have to give up and do a factory reset through Samsung SmartSwitch.
It probably is a hardware failure as I had noticed the lightning bolt appearing when the phone is off whilst plugged in the charge, it take about a minute or so for the percentage bar to appear, usually it was about 2 seconds before this disaster occurred.
Cassie` said:
Right so I've managed to download the most up to date 6.0.1 ROM and attempted to flash it with ODIN V3.11.1 and it idles at the recovery.img part and fails like the previous efforts.
I'm not sure if attempting to get OREO running with the latest ODIN might work? If not then I may have to give up and do a factory reset through Samsung SmartSwitch.
It probably is a hardware failure as I had noticed the lightning bolt appearing when the phone is off whilst plugged in the charge, it take about a minute or so for the percentage bar to appear, usually it was about 2 seconds before this disaster occurred.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Worth a try flashing Oreo, BTU on samfirm tool will give you it for the G930F
If you're seeing problems with the charging now, you might get lucky and find the USB port is the only thing needing replacing, but if you send it off for repair it's unlikely even if that is the case that they won't just charge you for a new mainboard, you can likely get USB ports from eBay but opening the S7 isn't as straight forward as the back is glued on for IP68 water resistance and needs a heatgun to remove, not sure if anything else like the screen needs removing for USB, I've not opened mine
You've tried a new USB cable and a different PC too ?
*Detection* said:
Worth a try flashing Oreo, BTU on samfirm tool will give you it for the G930F
If you're seeing problems with the charging now, you might get lucky and find the USB port is the only thing needing replacing, but if you send it off for repair it's unlikely even if that is the case that they won't just charge you for a new mainboard, you can likely get USB ports from eBay but opening the S7 isn't as straight forward as the back is glued on for IP68 water resistance and needs a heatgun to remove, not sure if anything else like the screen needs removing for USB, I've not opened mine
You've tried a new USB cable and a different PC too ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The charging issue occurred immediately when the phone shut off by itself and wouldn't power on conventionally. The phone is still under warranty so if the Samsung SmartSwitch software is unable to recover the phone then I will take it to the repair center and have them fix/replace it. If it's a case of undoing the glue and whatnot then I'd rather they give me a replacement.
I did change the USB cable to a different one, and I've attempted to flash the 2 different ODINS with the 2 different ROMS on a laptop as opposed to the desktop I was using. Still fails at the recovery.img part of ODIN.
I'm going to try Samsung SmartSwitch now and see if this will give it some life. If THAT doesn't work then it's 100% hardware issue and my data was lost to begin with.
Considering both versions of ODIN didn't work with either ROM, I don't think I'll be looking for the BTU version of OREO to attempt to install with. If there's a direct download that's quick I might but I think I'll attempt to Emergency Recover through the Samsung tool.
I want to thank you plenty for your help and knowledge on this. It certainly has been helpful and given me better understanding of the problem I'm facing and potential solutions. I have a feeling that the SmartSwitch recovery won't work either and still be posting back here hahaha.
OK I've got bigger problems on my hands now.
SmartSwitch and Kies both say "SM-G930F" does not support initializing. Please contact our service center.
I've already inputted my serial number and it gives me the same message on both programs. When I called up customer support they said my warranty is till the end of May this year.
Would the service center be able to solve this problem?
Cassie` said:
OK I've got bigger problems on my hands now.
SmartSwitch and Kies both say "SM-G930F" does not support initializing. Please contact our service center.
I've already inputted my serial number and it gives me the same message on both programs. When I called up customer support they said my warranty is till the end of May this year.
Would the service center be able to solve this problem?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I'd get it repaired under warranty asap then if it runs out soon, they will most likely replace the mainboard I'd say, which means 100% data loss as the storage is on a chip on that board, or might even send you a new S7
Really does sound like hardware failure if all of these recovery options have failed, just keep quiet about what you've done to try and fix it, just act dumb and say it won't turn on or they could claim you nulled your warranty messing with ODIN
And no probs, that's what XDA is all about Let us know how the repair goes and buy a MicroSD card to save your important files to this time so you don't lose anything if it happens again
*Detection* said:
Yea I'd get it repaired under warranty asap then if it runs out soon, they will most likely replace the mainboard I'd say, which means 100% data loss as the storage is on a chip on that board, or might even send you a new S7
Really does sound like hardware failure if all of these recovery options have failed, just keep quiet about what you've done to try and fix it, just act dumb and say it won't turn on or they could claim you nulled your warranty messing with ODIN
And no probs, that's what XDA is all about Let us know how the repair goes and buy a MicroSD card to save your important files to this time so you don't lose anything if it happens again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had an SD card inside with all my pictures I took whilst in Japan (Thank GOD!). I took it out when this issue arose to avoid potential data loss there.
As far as ODIN is concerned, warranty still appears intact but yes I'll keep hush hush when I'm there. I believe they said they'd give me a refurbished S7 if they couldn't reflash it there.
Cassie` said:
I had an SD card inside with all my pictures I took whilst in Japan (Thank GOD!). I took it out when this issue arose to avoid potential data loss there.
As far as ODIN is concerned, warranty still appears intact but yes I'll keep hush hush when I'm there. I believe they said they'd give me a refurbished S7 if they couldn't reflash it there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, ODIN will not void warranty if you only flash stock, but telling them you used ODIN might, it's not a tool meant for us, it's Samsung's internal flashing tool not meant to be leaked online, sometimes they'll use any reason to blame you and not have to pay out / replace it so yea best not say anything other than official recovery methods suggested by Samsung themselves, if anything at all, I'd just say I didn't do anything, an OTA update came through and it never rebooted or something
Good job with the pics, I don't save any media to the phone itself, I create folders on the SDCard and move it over if I can't have it save there automatically, that way wiping the phone is nothing but a pain to set back up again, nothing actually lost
*Detection* said:
Yes, ODIN will not void warranty if you only flash stock, but telling them you used ODIN might, it's not a tool meant for us, it's Samsung's internal flashing tool not meant to be leaked online, sometimes they'll use any reason to blame you and not have to pay out / replace it so yea best not say anything other than official recovery methods suggested by Samsung themselves, if anything at all, I'd just say I didn't do anything, an OTA update came through and it never rebooted or something
Good job with the pics, I don't save any media to the phone itself, I create folders on the SDCard and move it over if I can't have it save there automatically, that way wiping the phone is nothing but a pain to set back up again, nothing actually lost
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm going to give flashing one last try.
I am currently downloading Android 8.0.0 for United Kingdom (BTU, NOT XEU). I have to head to work in a few minutes. When I get back I'll attempt to flash that without BootLoader as that will change it to version 3 and you can't downgrade from that from what I've read here and there. If that fails then it's off to the repair center. If it's some sort of hardware failure then it won't flash regardless what stock rom/ODIN version I'm using.
Not sure if BTU update with home CSC will retain my data (assuming it works)
Cassie` said:
I'm going to give flashing one last try.
I am currently downloading Android 8.0.0 for United Kingdom (BTU, NOT XEU). I have to head to work in a few minutes. When I get back I'll attempt to flash that without BootLoader as that will change it to version 3 and you can't downgrade from that from what I've read here and there. If that fails then it's off to the repair center. If it's some sort of hardware failure then it won't flash regardless what stock rom/ODIN version I'm using.
Not sure if BTU update with home CSC will retain my data (assuming it works)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your CSC will remain XEU as it is Multi-CSC containing BTU, and BTU contains XEU, I'm running it now with BTU firmware & XEU CSC
Bootloader for this Oreo 8.0 BTU firmware is still 2, with it being a new Android version you'll need to flash the BL too anyway
*Detection* said:
Your CSC will remain XEU as it is Multi-CSC containing BTU, and BTU contains XEU, I'm running it now with BTU firmware & XEU CSC
Bootloader for this Oreo 8.0 BTU firmware is still 2, with it being a new Android version you'll need to flash the BL too anyway
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had no luck flashing it with Oreo. It's definitely going to the repair centre. Such a shame.
I'm very grateful for your time and help with this. I will report back this weekend with the results of what the repair centre will do regarding the device. Don't like to leave a thread without an end result.
Many thanks again!

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