Android to a dummie - General Questions and Answers

Hello
(sorry for my english)
I'm a noob in this world and i need some help.
In the past few days i've been reading a lot of posts in this forum but to a noob it's a little bit hard to understand somethings.
So, i'm using this topic to ask some questions. If there is another thread that answer all my questions and explain things for a newbie, feel free to tell me and apologize to create this new thread.
I have a smartphone android, Galaxy S2 with android 4.1.2, all locked to the provider (I know that there is a specific forum for this smartphone and i read some threads).
Now, i want to make it a ROOT and maybe try new ROM's.
Let's start with the questions:
-To make a root, it's better with kernel exchange or with a simple file?
-In the future, if i want to install another ROM, having the root made from the kernel that is with the phone (using a file in the SD Card) may cause some problems? To do this it's better to go to root insecure kernel?
-Why i need to change kernel? which is the benefits?
-It's possible to restore to the previous kernel?
-What are necessary to backup the ROM that actually i have?
-Changing one time the kernel, i can install all the roms i want or i need to install another kernel's?
Thank you for your atention, and one more time, sorry for my english!

@pedrocrv,
Your English is fine! Don't worry about that, man.
Here is my opinion.
Generally speaking, you don't need to replace your kernel. Replacing the kernel can both drastically change your device's performance for the better, as well as render your device completely unusable, which in Android terminology is called "bricked". If your device is "bricked", it is completely useless as an electronic device, making it nothing more than a brick.
But to get back on topic, it's normally only developers like myself who need to replace the kernel, and even then only every once in a while. It's somewhat unsafe for new users, because one little mistake can lead to a huge problem. Trust me, I've seen them here on XDA myself. Don't become one of them.
However, using and flashing ROMs is a whole different story. ROMs normally change aesthetic parts of your device, like the look and features. If you follow the instructions given to install the specific ROM very well, it is practically impossible to brick your device.
If you find a good ROM, go for it. It's almost definitely going to change your device in a very good way.
So to wrap up this post, basically (for you):
Replace the kernel = bad idea, don't do it until you have more experience
Install/flash a ROM = a great idea, go for it if you find a nice one!
The most important thing to remember, however, is to m a k e a b a c k u p. Once you make a backup, you can mod your system however you want without fear of bricking.
Hope this helps.

@thenookieforlife3
Thank you for your explanation!
I understand what you said, but in one thread of my smartphone i see a lot of people talking about rooting their phones but for this is needed to use another kernel.
I want to root my device, and in a near future maybe install one ROM of CyanogenMod (and try others too), but i'm afraid of rooting because that story of changing the device kernel and using Odin... I don't want a brick
Another question:
If i find a file to root my device without Odin, but i don't have the 100% that it's the file indicated for my device, there is some problem if I try to root with that?
And, as i see, there is some diferent files, how i choose one? it's indifferent or one file have specific itens that another don't have?
Thanks a lot!

pedrocrv said:
@thenookieforlife3
Thank you for your explanation!
I understand what you said, but in one thread of my smartphone i see a lot of people talking about rooting their phones but for this is needed to use another kernel.
I want to root my device, and in a near future maybe install one ROM of CyanogenMod (and try others too), but i'm afraid of rooting because that story of changing the device kernel and using Odin... I don't want a brick
Another question:
If i find a file to root my device without Odin, but i don't have the 100% that it's the file indicated for my device, there is some problem if I try to root with that?
And, as i see, there is some diferent files, how i choose one? it's indifferent or one file have specific itens that another don't have?
Thanks a lot!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
like Thenookieforlife3 said you do not need a kernel, you dont need one to root or install roms/custom recovery's, they are just for tweaking things or being able to overclock. So, first of all, you are going to have to tell us your model number (or which carrier your phone is on) so we can direct you to the right root guide, s2's are fairly easy to root so dont be scared we will hold your hands the entire way!

Trozzul said:
like Thenookieforlife3 said you do not need a kernel, you dont need one to root or install roms/custom recovery's, they are just for tweaking things or being able to overclock. So, first of all, you are going to have to tell us your model number (or which carrier your phone is on) so we can direct you to the right root guide, s2's are fairly easy to root so dont be scared we will hold your hands the entire way!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This. ^
We can definitely give you a hand, but we do need a few details to make sure everything works out.

hello again!
@Trozzul and @thenookieforlife3,
Thank you!
So there is the information asked for: (see the attachment for more details)
Bandbase: I9100BULS1
Kernel: 3.0.31-889555 [email protected] #3 SMP PREEMPT Thu Jan 31 14:48:54 KST 2013
Compilation Number: JZO54K.I9100XWLSD
I have another questions to do:
-What vary from file to file on root?
-What is a AOSP ROM? Where I can find a rom that is almost empty of trash, like i think it is a Stock Rom?
-In the information given above, wich is more important to see if I can install that rom? Can I install a rom that is not XWLSD?
Many thanks!

Answers to your questions are in red.
Thank you! You're very welcome!
So there is the information asked for: (see the attachment for more details)
Bandbase: I9100BULS1
Kernel: 3.0.31-889555 [email protected] #3 SMP PREEMPT Thu Jan 31 14:48:54 KST 2013
Compilation Number: JZO54K.I9100XWLSD
I have another questions to do:
-What vary from file to file on root? Normally not much changes from root method to root method - basically, if anything does, it's negligible to you, meaning that it won't really matter. What does matter is that the root method actually roots your phone.
-What is a AOSP ROM? ASOP stands for Android Open Source Project, and it pretty much means that it's a ROM that is as minimalistic and "free of trash", as you say, as you can get it.
-Where I can find a rom that is almost empty of trash, like i think it is a Stock Rom? Here are a few good ones:
AOSP NeatROM for S2
CarbonRom KitKat for S2
SuperNexus for S2
-In the information given above, which is more important to see if I can install that rom? Can I install a rom that is not XWLSD? The ROMs that you can install will be labelled "S2" and "I9100". Don't try to install any other ROMs unless they have those labels.
Hope these help!

I understand what you said!
For example, the AOSP NeatROM have a version that is not AOSP. What it means?
To Install other ROM's i need to root first?
And now, how i simply root by a file?

@pedrocrv,
Answers to your questions in red.
For example, the AOSP NeatROM have a version that is not AOSP. What it means? That means that there is another version of that ROM that is more full of extra features, a.k.a "trash".
To Install other ROM's i need to root first? Yes.
And now, how i simply root by a file? It depends from method to method - some methods are apps that you install and then hit a "big red button", some methods are files that you have to flash through a custom recovery, for example, ClockworkMod. Basically, just read and follow the instructions that come with each root method.

again, thank you!
So, if i find some thread that talk about a file to root, it's just follow the instructions and it's done?
how I know that i need a custom recovery? mine doesn't work?
what is flashing?
Thank you for your attention!

@pedrocrv,
Once again, answers to your questions in red.
So, if i find some thread that talk about a file to root, it's just follow the instructions and it's done? Yes, that's right.
how I know that i need a custom recovery? mine doesn't work? The rooting method will tell you in the instructions whether or not you need a custom recovery, and if it does, it will tell you which one to use and how to use it.
what is flashing? Simply put, flashing is installing a file (normally a .zip) that has been specially formatted via a recovery method (custom or stock).
Thank you for your attention! No problem!

thenookieforlife3 said:
@pedrocrv,
First, please make sure to hit "Thanks" on each of my helpful posts.
Once again, answers to your questions in red.
So, if i find some thread that talk about a file to root, it's just follow the instructions and it's done? Yes, that's right.
how I know that i need a custom recovery? mine doesn't work? The rooting method will tell you in the instructions whether or not you need a custom recovery, and if it does, it will tell you which one to use and how to use it.
what is flashing? Simply put, flashing is installing a file (normally a .zip) that has been specially formatted via a recovery method (custom or stock).
Thank you for your attention! No problem!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im sure we should introduce him to cyanogenmod, cyanogenmod can be more stock than Asop most of the time, Asops nice but there are most of the time little additions that the creator likes, plus if cyanogenmod installer is compatible for your device he shouldn't have todo much!
@pedrocrv , im not trying to steal his thunder but im trying my best to explain it to you too if he left anything out, otherwise if you guys want me to i will back out .
Custom recovery's are basically a way of getting out of a bad spot and being able to Flash new Roms, if you get stuck in a bootloop (stays stuck at the samsung screen for a very long time, the first time you flash a rom you should let it sit for it can take awhile for the first time you turn it on.) you can most likely get out of the problem and be able to backup your stock firmware if you decide you dont like rooting/custom roms, it does stuff the Stock recovery does not do.
Flashing is basically as thenookieforlife3 said its so you can install Roms, when you hear the term flashing think "installing".

@Trozzul and @thenookieforlife3,
Thank you for both atention! i'm learning a lot of things with both of you!
I know cyanogen, and as i search in the wiki of cyanogen page i think my phone is compatible.
What I need to do with the installer? And if i use the installer, how I backup my actual ROM to future problems or needs to come to origins?
stock ROM-> My actual ROM?
Custom ROM-> a new one
So, if i understand everything:
With my actual recovery i'm not able to install other ROM's. But, with my recovery, i'm able to root my device unless the root method needs a custom recovery and it say's how to install it right?
With the root by my recovery, i'm able to install other ROM's but I will need to further install a custom recovery right?
Many thanks :good:

pedrocrv said:
@Trozzul and @thenookieforlife3,
Thank you for both atention! i'm learning a lot of things with both of you!
I know cyanogen, and as i search in the wiki of cyanogen page i think my phone is compatible.
What I need to do with the installer? And if i use the installer, how I backup my actual ROM to future problems or needs to come to origins?
stock ROM-> My actual ROM?
Custom ROM-> a new one
So, if i understand everything:
With my actual recovery i'm not able to install other ROM's. But, with my recovery, i'm able to root my device unless the root method needs a custom recovery and it say's how to install it right?
With the root by my recovery, i'm able to install other ROM's but I will need to further install a custom recovery right?
Many thanks :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes your stock rom is what the device comes with when you buy it. every device method of being able to get custom roms is different, so when you do get a new phone always do your research, sometimes you can root it and dont need a custom recovery (thats only if you want to stay on stock rom) sometimes you need a custom recovery to get root. with my S2 what i needed todo was get a custom recovery first, installing cyanogenmod already comes rooted so you can make a backup of your stock rom without rooting it.
so i dont also exactly know which device you have, where are you from? it looks spanish in your phones setttings with that screenshot, region is important. is it a GT-i9100 or a GT-i9100b? take out the battery and tell us what the model number says there. this is important for the cyanogenmod installer.

Trozzul said:
Yes your stock rom is what the device comes with when you buy it. every device method of being able to get custom roms is different, so when you do get a new phone always do your research, sometimes you can root it and dont need a custom recovery (thats only if you want to stay on stock rom) sometimes you need a custom recovery to get root. with my S2 what i needed todo was get a custom recovery first, installing cyanogenmod already comes rooted so you can make a backup of your stock rom without rooting it.
so i dont also exactly know which device you have, where are you from? it looks spanish in your phones setttings with that screenshot, region is important. is it a GT-i9100 or a GT-i9100b? take out the battery and tell us what the model number says there. this is important for the cyanogenmod installer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No i'm from portugal
so:
Model: GT-I9100
SSN:-I9100GSMH
Wich is the diference?

pedrocrv said:
No i'm from portugal
so:
Model: GT-I9100
SSN:-I9100GSMH
Wich is the diference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's very little difference between the i9100 and the i9100b, but the difference is enough that there is a separate CyanogenMod installer for both models.

thenookieforlife3 said:
There's very little difference between the i9100 and the i9100b, but the difference is enough that there is a separate CyanogenMod installer for both models.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@thenookieforlife3 i think the cyanogenmod installer installs a CWM right for his question on it? also look at these stated on the Cyanogenmod wiki for the GT-i9100
WARNING:
Some second-generation Samsung Exynos devices are potentially susceptible to a "superbrick" caused by performing a factory reset with the stock kernel, which effectively kills the internal memory in the device. It is highly recommended you do not perform this operation while using a stock kernel for safety reasons. To make sure you aren't running the stock kernel (only needed when coming from the stock ROM), fully install CM without performing a factory reset and reboot to recovery before you perform the factory reset.
WARNING:
If you used a non-official method to remove a provider lock, your /efs partition may become corrupt! It is highly recommended you make a backup of this for safe keeping before attempting to modify your device, especially if you plan to remove such a lock.
WARNING:
The newest Gapps package (20140606) is too big for the /system partition of i9100. Please use the 20140105 package instead. This message will disappear when this is resolved.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should we tell him to run a benchmark and tell us his CPU?
@pedrocrv (Edit:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.antutu.ABenchMark download this app real fast and tell us what CPU you have) so the cyanogenmod installer will be the easiest thing for you, even though installing a custom rom is insanely easy this is basically a one click method, note that all of your data will be deleted so back that up somewhere where you can save it and put it on your phone when its done installing. so as i asked thenookieforlife3i believe that the cyanogenmod installer will also install the latest and best custom recovery for you (CWM: Clockworkmod will be a huge term like CM: Cyanogenmod you will hear a lot, they are both very popular for being the most stable.) it would be stupid enough for it not to install it as well, but if it does not we will show you an easy app that will install a custom recovery, basically one click just like cyanogenmod. now as i looked on the cyanogenmod site, the installer IS compatible with your phone and will install a Stable version of Cyanogenmod 10.2 which is android 4.3. note that the highest right now is CM 11 which is android 4.4.4 kit kat but right now is what we call a "Nightly".
i will try my best to explain this to you, there are four stages that cyanogenmod puts out i will rate them from lowest to highest: "experiments" "snapshot" "nightly" and "Stable", you only need to worry about nightly and stable, Stable is basically the final product the last update for that android version so its the most stable and with less bugs and this is what you want to aim for, Nightlys are Nightly generated updates that update bugs every night asked by people like us to be fixed, Honestly Nightlys are Very stable and are perfectly fine.
Now you might like Cyanogenmod 10.2, personally a lot of my phones run 10.2 if its available, you might like kit kat (Cyanogenmod 11) better instead, honestly try out 10.2 first and if you dont like it, you can update to Cyanogenmod 11 (they push updates out like how samsung would push out updates.) without deleting your information on CM 10.2, im sorry if i confused you at all please ask a lot of questions if needed!

Trozzul said:
@thenookieforlife3 i think the cyanogenmod installer installs a CWM right for his question on it? also look at these stated on the Cyanogenmod wiki for the GT-i9100
Should we tell him to run a benchmark and tell us his CPU? …
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, installing CyanogenMod installs ClockworkMod as the default recovery.
Yes, let's have him run a benchmark and tell us the results.

@thenookieforlife3 and @Trozzul
Again, thank you for your patience!
I'm now running the benchmark!
Let's put new question's..
-With CM 10.2, it comes with root, and how to unlock the SIM?
-With CM 10.2, in wich phase of the installation I will be able to backup my stock ROM?
-Imagine that after sometime I want to go back to my stock ROM, What I need to do, because i will have another recovery?
-WIth the CM 10.2 I will have my RAM memory more free?
In the attachment are the images of the test
thank you again!
Pedro

@pedrocrv,
As always, answers to your questions in red.
-With CM 10.2, it comes with root, and how to unlock the SIM? @Trozzul, if you'd please answer this question, that would be great, because I don't know much about SIM unlocking.
-With CM 10.2, in wich phase of the installation I will be able to backup my stock ROM? You will want to make a Nandroid backup before you do anything at all in relation to rooting and CyanogenMod.
-Imagine that after sometime I want to go back to my stock ROM, What I need to do, because i will have another recovery? You will use either the "Install update from SD card" or the "Install .zip from SD card" feature. I don't know exactly, but if that time comes, please let me know and I'll do the research necessary to help you out.
-WIth the CM 10.2 I will have my RAM memory more free? It all depends on what apps you have running at one time. I personally use Advanced Task Killer Free to kill apps directly after I'm finished using them, and that frees up a lot of RAM. CM probably overall will make your RAM memory less free, but if you use the app killing trick, you won't ever have a problem with it.
In the attachment are the images of the test Great, thank you for doing that.

Related

Rooting, Flashing, Backing up And Installing New Boot Loader

Hi guys,
I just got a SGS4G about a week ago and I would like to tweak it a little bit but I do have some concerns. This is my first android smartphone
Here are my concerns:
I would like to do a Backup of my ROM in case I ever want to go back to it. How could I do that? Do I need to install a bootloader other than the one that comes with the phone? if yes which one should I install?
I have rooted my phone and would like to get rid of a bunch of apps but was reading that if you remove some of the apps it could cause the phone to malfuncion. Is there a compiled a list of apps that should not be removed? or this is just not true?
When I'm ready to install a Stock ROM how do I do that? Via Odin? (I can look for some guide if it's via Odin)
Can anyone tell me what would be the benefit of installing Deodexed instead of using the Stock ROM?
Will i always me able to come back to my Stock ROM once i figure how to create a backup ROM?
Am I missing any important point that I should know about?
I would really appreciate if you can help clarify this doubts that I got before i try to do anything.
Thanks
i'm new to all of this too but ill try to answer some questions. Although, I think this thread should NOT be in development and should be in general. I personally have read through a lot of threads to get the answers that I was seeking for.
As far as backup goes, I think its possible through Odin via dump option? don't quote me on that, I have not had to do that before, nor have I read up on it. bootloader as far as i see, i did not need it.
there is a thread in here with virgin rom request, LOOK for it.
There is NO compiled list of apps that you can or cannot delete, but if you read, there is a dl for BLOATWARE, use that as a template to what you want deleted.
Right now, ODIN is the only way that you can flash your phone, and use the two roms listed in this development thread.
From what i read a deodexed rom just helps with file system and structure. I think?
you will always be able to go back to stock, if you have the virgin rom.
Imo, you should read up/skim through every thread in here to see what is available, problems people are having and the fixes for them. I know there is alot of information in here and it maybe overwhelming, but there were 172 views of this thread without any replies because us noobs need to READ/SEARCH. Thats the answers we'll get if we continue to make new threads. Just fyi if your new to forums.
Moved as not android development.
As newbie you should first read and use search
then if you dont see question you want, you just ask it
And about Roms , well i tried that deox v2.2 and didnt like it , switched to stock with removed bloat and love it more but thats for different thread
Well thanks for you answers and I do apologize for posting this here. I didn't know. I think i will go with what you have done. Stock ROM without bloatware. Did you flash the Stock ROM from this forum? or did you just deleted the apps one by one?
I will do the fota fix as well.
moshe22 said:
Hi guys,
I just got a SGS4G about a week ago and I would like to tweak it a little bit but I do have some concerns. This is my first android smartphone
Here are my concerns:
I would like to do a Backup of my ROM in case I ever want to go back to it. How could I do that? Do I need to install a bootloader other than the one that comes with the phone? if yes which one should I install?
I have rooted my phone and would like to get rid of a bunch of apps but was reading that if you remove some of the apps it could cause the phone to malfuncion. Is there a compiled a list of apps that should not be removed? or this is just not true?
When I'm ready to install a Stock ROM how do I do that? Via Odin? (I can look for some guide if it's via Odin)
Can anyone tell me what would be the benefit of installing Deodexed instead of using the Stock ROM?
Will i always me able to come back to my Stock ROM once i figure how to create a backup ROM?
Am I missing any important point that I should know about?
I would really appreciate if you can help clarify this doubts that I got before i try to do anything.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ClockWorkMod is the preferred way to backup your ROM, but it does not seem to be working on the SGS4G currently. I was messing with it one night and actually think I got it to backup the Rom one time but I cannot guarantee that I did because I was working on a supposed fix and did not get a chance to copy the backup file to my computer before it got wiped off my SD card. The process is called nandroid backup. If you have a virgin phone and want a clean backup of your ROM you might want to wait until the fix comes out for CWM.
Once you root your phone you can install Titainum backup. That allows you to backup your apps/Data/System settings. At least that’s what it says it does. From what I’ve read, the best way to backup your apps is with ADB which is part of the Software Development Kit. You can also use Android Commander which uses ADB to Pull your apps to your computer and make a backup there. Check http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1010006 for info on SDK and ADB commands. There is also a direction to making new apps install to your SD card natively. This link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001202 also shows that command and how to Reverse/Check status of settings.
The Noobs guide to Oden covers the basics to flashing your ROM fairly well: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001759
The [ROM-ODIN]T959VUVKB5 Stock + Root and [ROM-ODIN] Deodexed KB5 Enhanced v2.2 are the two ROMs that are working now for most people. The first is Odexed the second is Deodexed. Odexed is how it comes stock and takes up less room but making modifications or taking apks from other roms is hard, While Deodexed allows modders to work on the apks & easily change stuff like themes. (Description Taken from Damage's DamageControl Thread) My suggestion is to have some patience and wait for ClockWorkMod to be updated and working for the SGS4G before you dive in too deep. Take some time to look around the 4g posts and read as much as you can to get familiar with what is working and what is not. Check some of the threads with locks on them to see what not to do. There is a wealth of information in these pages.
ClockWorkMod is the preferred way to backup your ROM, but it does not seem to be working on the SGS4G currently. I was messing with it one night and actually think I got it to backup the Rom one time but I cannot guarantee that I did because I was working on a supposed fix and did not get a chance to copy the backup file to my computer before it got wiped off my SD card. The process is called nandroid backup. If you have a virgin phone and want a clean backup of your ROM you might want to wait until the fix comes out for CWM.
Once you root your phone you can install Titainum backup. That allows you to backup your apps/Data/System settings. At least that’s what it says it does. From what I’ve read, the best way to backup your apps is with ADB which is part of the Software Development Kit. You can also use Android Commander which uses ADB to Pull your apps to your computer and make a backup there. Check http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1010006 for info on SDK and ADB commands. There is also a direction to making new apps install to your SD card natively. This link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001202 also shows that command and how to Reverse/Check status of settings.
The Noobs guide to Oden covers the basics to flashing your ROM fairly well: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1001759
The [ROM-ODIN]T959VUVKB5 Stock + Root and [ROM-ODIN] Deodexed KB5 Enhanced v2.2 are the two ROMs that are working now for most people. The first is Odexed the second is Deodexed. Odexed is how it comes stock and takes up less room but making modifications or taking apks from other roms is hard, While Deodexed allows modders to work on the apks & easily change stuff like themes. (Description Taken from Damage's DamageControl Thread) My suggestion is to have some patience and wait for ClockWorkMod to be updated and working for the SGS4G before you dive in too deep. Take some time to look around the 4g posts and read as much as you can to get familiar with what is working and what is not. Check some of the threads with locks on them to see what not to do. There is a wealth of information in these pages.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man! Really helpful. I will read into these threads and probably will wait for the clockwork to work for SGS4G.
I really don't see the advantage of flashing to Deodexed. Maybe i'm missing something?

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

So I waited for the GB update and I like it but I think it is time to root this phone. I want to stress that I have had this phone since a little bit after it came out about two weeks after and it has run like a champ from day 1. No problems at all so when I updated to gb it was actually a downgrade in some ways like the camera but I definitly like gb because of the text editing but I havent noticed any improvement in battery life or speed or signal or GPS but All thouse things were great before and they are great now.
So I am running GB 2.3.3 withthe july 15 baseband and kernel 2.6.32.9 and I know it is different to root but I dont fully uinderstand it so if someone can post a detailed guide with as much explanation as possible so I understand what I am doing I would greatly appriciate it. I assume you cant get NV flasher from the market (I Havent looked) and what is cwm or cmw and if I flash a new rom will I loose the new baseband? Or can I get root permissions and keep stock GB? Tahnk you for all your help
First read the sticky at the top of the Android Development page. That sticky basically explains everything you will need to know, step by step.
In summary though....
Step 1 - NVFlash (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1056847)
Step 2 - Download Xboarders Rooted OTA.zip (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1179748)
Step 3 - Boot into Clockwork Recovery
Step 4 - Install Zip from SD Card - the Zip you downloaded above
Voila you have rooted GB 2.3.3 with new baseband.
An alternative that I would suggest would be Eaglesblood 1.06 GB 2.3.3 though, smoothest ROM on the boards IMO and based on GB 2.3.3
jabhome said:
An alternative that I would suggest would be Eaglesblood 1.06 GB 2.3.3 though, smoothest ROM on the boards IMO and based on GB 2.3.3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried both Roms and I would have to sway that Xboarder's Tweaked Rom is the best GB update 2.3.3 Rom.
pdxmatts said:
I've tried both Roms and I would have to sway that Xboarder's Tweaked Rom is the best GB update 2.3.3 Rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did not try Xboarders tweaked, maybe I will give it a try.
Does swype work on that rom as phone just took a dump with swype beta. First reboot in over two months just now.
Sent from my LG-P999 using Tapatalk
Follow the advice above. I flashed a rom for the first time today.
Does the Netflix app work on xboarder's rom? I'm having issues with HDMI on CM7 going out about every 5 minutes but coming right back. I really need the netflix app for travel.
+1 on xboarders. Runs smooth and has all of the stock features
Sent from my LG-P999
thanks guys that was what I thought. So it really is that easy? What actually gives it the root? is it the xboarders rom? I am going to ask alot of questions because I want to understand how it actually works so please bear with me. It sounds like it actually got easir to root with this update no? It seems like NVflash is a app or program that lets me put the rom on my sim card should I go internal or external? I have a whole bunch of external cards with diffewrent capacitys and the one i use now is 16 gig. Then clockwork recovery is a program that is already on the dvice I dont know if it is part of android or what but it is alrady there right? It lets me choose wether I want to recover or make a backup of roms or install new ones correct? Then when I put the tweeked rom on it has something in it hat roots the phone magically.
Please let me know what I am right about and what I am not right about and give me the correct answers because I really want to know I am a nosey motherfer
Charlie
So According to the thread in this forum titles "how to get the new baseband" the rooted version of the new rom does not contain the new baseband. Or is that the leaked gingerbread that came out a few months ago way before the update came out? He is not talking about xboarders rom right? If I do what was suggested here I will in fact have the new baseband and 2.3.3 rooted right?
Charlie
correct
mojorisin7178 said:
So According to the thread in this forum titles "how to get the new baseband" the rooted version of the new rom does not contain the new baseband. Or is that the leaked gingerbread that came out a few months ago way before the update came out? He is not talking about xboarders rom right? If I do what was suggested here I will in fact have the new baseband and 2.3.3 rooted right?
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have the new baseband now no roms will change that.
The roms do not include the baseband .
mojorisin7178 said:
thanks guys that was what I thought. So it really is that easy? What actually gives it the root? is it the xboarders rom? I am going to ask alot of questions because I want to understand how it actually works so please bear with me. It sounds like it actually got easir to root with this update no? It seems like NVflash is a app or program that lets me put the rom on my sim card should I go internal or external? I have a whole bunch of external cards with diffewrent capacitys and the one i use now is 16 gig. Then clockwork recovery is a program that is already on the dvice I dont know if it is part of android or what but it is alrady there right? It lets me choose wether I want to recover or make a backup of roms or install new ones correct? Then when I put the tweeked rom on it has something in it hat roots the phone magically.
Please let me know what I am right about and what I am not right about and give me the correct answers because I really want to know I am a nosey motherfer
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I flash from my external SD Card. You just need to decide where you want to install from, and then make sure you set up NVFlash with the correct support, external or internal.
Not sure of the exact terminology, but I think the procedure itself would be called to NVFlash ClockworkMod. NVFlash is the procedure to install CWM, while CWM is the program that you will run via Volume Down + Power when you boot up. CWM 4.0.0.2 will boot up and from there you will be able to flash roms, backup and restore Nandroids.
Ah that makes sense Now I see CWM stands for Clock work mod. See I was thinking CWM is a rom I actually thought it stood for cyogen mod I just couldnt figure out the W. So when I flash CWM it contains the root permissions already is that how it works?
So I should use nvflash to install cwm then I should probally make a backup of my stock rom. Also If I just install or flash CWM and not flash a new rom then Will my phone be rooted stock? or do I have to flash the xborders rom to gain root?
Thanks alot guys
Charlie
mojorisin7178 said:
Ah that makes sense Now I see CWM stands for Clock work mod. See I was thinking CWM is a rom I actually thought it stood for cyogen mod I just couldnt figure out the W. So when I flash CWM it contains the root permissions already is that how it works?
So I should use nvflash to install cwm then I should probally make a backup of my stock rom. Also If I just install or flash CWM and not flash a new rom then Will my phone be rooted stock? or do I have to flash the xborders rom to gain root?
Thanks alot guys
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CWM doesn't "contain" root permissions, it just allows you to flash any ROM into the phone, rooted or otherwise. The Xboarder ROM is pre-rooted, along with most of the others.
THANK YOU!
I too am a noob and was a little confused. I'd search the forums and come up with too much info. Plus, some terms used on this forum are slightly overloaded (in the C++ context) from the classic meanings, like "ROM" and "baseband". Those terms as used here do not mean exactly what they meant 20 years ago.
I'm sure I need to read more on app dev (but I have too many hobbies already), but I'm confused about the layers of s/w. As a noob, I would think the layers would be BIOS or maybe BSP, Linux, Android. So I don't understand:
1) where does the clockwork mod fit within the layers?
1a) nvdia nvflash installs new drivers in the Linux layer?
2) what is contained in the ROM image? A new version of Linux, andriod, nvdia drivers, baseband?
3) Is there a BIOS/BSP, or is all register access done in Linux drivers?
I'm not looking for a developers level answer to these questions, more of the readers digest version of the answers.
Since I'm having black screen of death (I believe referred to here as "SOD"), on two phones, I'd like to understand more, to figure out if this problem is h/w or s/w. I am definitely leaning towards s/w problems and my wife and I would love to keep these phones.
Thanks again.
-Bob
mojorisin7178 said:
Ah that makes sense Now I see CWM stands for Clock work mod. See I was thinking CWM is a rom I actually thought it stood for cyogen mod I just couldnt figure out the W. So when I flash CWM it contains the root permissions already is that how it works?
So I should use nvflash to install cwm then I should probally make a backup of my stock rom. Also If I just install or flash CWM and not flash a new rom then Will my phone be rooted stock? or do I have to flash the xborders rom to gain root?
Thanks alot guys
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Continuing off of what Spyvie said, you do need to flash xboarder's rom to gain root, (more like repeating what he said). As for nvflash, this should make things a bit easier. tgagunman made a nice one click feature that if you follow the directions, should be easier to follow. You will get clockwork mod recovery, it will be nvflashed, but it's a lot easier for a non-techie to use.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1056847
I want to thank everyone who chimed in you guys have been really good to me Bob has some really good questions also and I hope this thread can help you out bob. That is why I started this thread for people like me who are really good with computers and like to mess around but don't quite understand phones. Every time something goes wrong with my PC I go to the forums and I fix it myself then I feel good. (And I have had some real disasters on my PC I have come back from)
Anyway I will be doing this procedure soon as I feel confident that I can do it and I see there is a fix for unbricking phones. One last question before I hit the green light: Can it be unrooted just in case I have to send it back for warantey issues and can CWM be uninstalled? I suspect that since the ROM is pre-rooted that all I would have to do is format and install my original ROM then uninstall CWM is that on point or no? And Again THANKS TO ALL WHO CHIME IN WITH THE ANSWERS AND I WOULD LIKE TO INVITE OTHERS TO CHIME IN WITH THERE QUESTIONS.
Charlie
Okay so I checked out the links. So I gather that step 1 has to be skipped now because super1click does not work. So we can just NVflash CWM which looks easy enough. Now I have winzip on my computer will that work for extracting .rar files? I am pretty sure it will but I want to make sure. And I am going to shut off user control permissions and I use MS security essentials for my Anti virus so I am thinking of shutting that off for this procedure would that be a wise thing and is there anything else that I should do. I am not a computer expert but I am not a idiot either I am just inexperienced. Thank you guys
Charlie
mojorisin7178 said:
Can it be unrooted just in case I have to send it back for warantey issues and can CWM be uninstalled?
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can restore you Nandroid of the preroot OTA, or you can unroot with the unroot zip that Xboarder provided in his link.
mojorisin7178 said:
Okay so I checked out the links. So I gather that step 1 has to be skipped now because super1click does not work. So we can just NVflash CWM which looks easy enough. Now I have winzip on my computer will that work for extracting .rar files? I am pretty sure it will but I want to make sure. And I am going to shut off user control permissions and I use MS security essentials for my Anti virus so I am thinking of shutting that off for this procedure would that be a wise thing and is there anything else that I should do. I am not a computer expert but I am not a idiot either I am just inexperienced. Thank you guys
Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no, there is nothing else you need to do to your computer. The link provided by the brother above (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1056847) is where you need to be. Skip the one click root and go straight to NV flash. It will guide you through installing the nvidia drivers you need. TGA_Gunnman has is laid out really nice and easy to follow and the program he put together (one click clm recovery nv flasher) is really simple to understand and use. he also has another post out there (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1060715) that is also helpfull. Once you get nv flash done make sure you copy the rom you want on your sd card. IMO Xboarders is very nice and smooth. You will hold down volume down and power together until you see the android screen. Then in the menu use vol keys to move to backup and restore and use power to select. Then move to yes and run the backup. then you can wipe data/factory restore. Then wipe cache. Then go to advanced and wipe dalvic and batt stats. Then go back to "choose zip from sd" and find your rom zip and select it. It will run for a while and tell you when its done, Then go to advanced again and fix permission. After that just go to reboot option and let it reboot. It may take a little longer the first time, just let it go. When it reboots you will have a rooted 2.3.3 with the new baseband you just updated to. After that go to the market and get Titanium Backup and run a backup of all your apps and data. From there your pretty much good to start flashing away. Have fun, Good luck

[Q] [Help] Help a n00b out.. :)

Ok, finally got my first Android phone, the SGS+, now what?
1). My version is KG1 and most on this forum are other variants. Is this code just regional or what?
2). Rooting. This allows me to have full control over the system. What will this help me with? (Except OverClocking)
3). Custom ROMs. These little "toys" transform your phone and make it better (in a nut shell). How do you flash a ROM and how do you restore to Stock SGS+ FW?
4). Recovery Mode. I heard you need to replace it with a better one in order to OC and change ROMs. How do you do that exactly?
These are the main ones also,
5). My phone is slow at times... I think I have too many apps running at once (After reboot I have 220mb RAM used from 350mb). I think I should Hard Reset and see if that will work?
6). 2.3.3 -> 2.3.4. I can not find the Samsung Page where to get the upgrade (I heard that it`s called 2.3.3 but it`s 2.3.4 and bla bla bla)
So, I would apreciate it if you could help me a little,
Thanks in Advance!
I have the exact same question as you, so thanks anyone who can answer this hopefully.
crisdorya said:
Ok, finally got my first Android phone, the SGS+, now what?
1). My version is KG1 and most on this forum are other variants. Is this code just regional or what?
2). Rooting. This allows me to have full control over the system. What will this help me with? (Except OverClocking)
3). Custom ROMs. These little "toys" transform your phone and make it better (in a nut shell). How do you flash a ROM and how do you restore to Stock SGS+ FW?
4). Recovery Mode. I heard you need to replace it with a better one in order to OC and change ROMs. How do you do that exactly?
These are the main ones also,
5). My phone is slow at times... I think I have too many apps running at once (After reboot I have 220mb RAM used from 350mb). I think I should Hard Reset and see if that will work?
6). 2.3.3 -> 2.3.4. I can not find the Samsung Page where to get the upgrade (I heard that it`s called 2.3.3 but it`s 2.3.4 and bla bla bla)
So, I would apreciate it if you could help me a little,
Thanks in Advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Regional firmware, yes...you should stick to it or you might find gsm/3g problems...unless there's a custom firmware like CM7 which is universal like
2. Rooting? lots of advantages...one of them is to install "chainfire3D" get "tegra 2 plugin" and play most of tegra 2 games with high quality graphics...you can use titanium backup to permanently remove systems apps or backup your apps..e.t.c
3. No custom firmware is available, it's a shame, yes it is for the devs specially...ironic..but there's a tool called "odin multidownloader" it helps you flash firmwares...you can get your stock firmware from "samfirmware.com"
4. No such recovery is developed...the name for that recovery is "Clockworkmod" which is not yet developed for this phone. Shame on devs :/ using that you can backup whole firmware so you can restore it incase your device doesn't bootup properly (quite straightforward) also you can install custom firmwares in a .zip format which i really like because that way, you will never mess up your phone or brick it...well exagerated there but it's the best and easiest way to flash a custom firmware
5. Hardreset doesn't get rid of your system apps...you can delete them by rooting the phone then installing titanium backup from market which is free.
6. get 2.3.4 rooted from here....i'm using it and it has no problem whatsoever:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1260707
Another good thing about 2.3.4 is that there is a battery drain bug in 2.3.3 which is fixed in 2.3.4 so i strongly recommend you to flash that...
Press thanks if i helped you
Thanks shad0wboss for the helpful information.
I do hope devs can make Custom ROMs and Custom Recovery a reality.
But until then, rooting will sufice.
Also, you said that you are using 2.3.4, is that a Universal or I should really stick with my regional-FW?
crisdorya said:
Thanks shad0wboss for the helpful information.
I do hope devs can make Custom ROMs and Custom Recovery a reality.
But until then, rooting will sufice.
Also, you said that you are using 2.3.4, is that a Universal or I should really stick with my regional-FW?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
shouldn't be a problem since my stock firmware is also different than that one and everything's working fine...if it doesn't work out for you, you can always flash back to your stock firmware.

[Q] Where to start?

I got myself a brand new nexus S and Ive got some questions
Im debating on using a custom ROM or just go stock ICS.
A good reason why people use custom ROMs is because of better battery because of the kernel. so would it be possible to flash a better kernel on stock ICS?
If I am going with Custom,
whats the most Recommended:
way of rooting(1 click or manual, and why)
Custom recovery
best kernel
best ROM
is it possible to save a custom UI(so you could do dual booting through custom UI u made)
WoolyMarmot said:
I got myself a brand new nexus S and Ive got some questions
Im debating on using a custom ROM or just go stock ICS.
A good reason why people use custom ROMs is because of better battery because of the kernel. so would it be possible to flash a better kernel on stock ICS?
If I am going with Custom,
whats the most Recommended:
way of rooting(1 click or manual, and why)
Custom recovery
best kernel
best ROM
is it possible to save a custom UI(so you could do dual booting through custom UI u made)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash a stock kernel on stock ICS, this is what i have done in the past and it was great. However I will note that the new ROM modifications that increase usable System RAM make a very noticeable difference with no negatives as far as i see. You also get things like notification power toggles, more lockscreen options and so on with a custom ROM.
Anyway, to answer your questions:
1) Best way of rooting: We have a Nexus device so i would not waste time using one clicks. Unlock the bootloader using fastboot, flash a custom recovery and then either flash superuser.zip or a custom ROM. This allows the most versatility when changing ROMs, mainly if you ever decide to flash or restore a stock ROM. The Nexus S allows you to lock the bootloader if you ever need to so warranty issues based on unlocked bootloaders are minimal.
2) ClockWorkMod is generally the most favorable, compatible and least buggy of the lot. TWRP, although good, has a couple of hidden bugs in it and is no longer being developed. Further, CWM now gives you the option between a Touch based recovery and a button based one. This is up to you as they're both essentially the same, but i still prefer the buttons.
3) There is no best kernel, just the best for you. Find the features you want in a kernel first, and then pick a handful and try them all. If you are using a ROM with fixes for the extra RAM (CM9, Slim, etc), you will need a kernel that supports this.
4) Same with kernels. CyanogenMod is generally a good choice. Although on the surface it looks just like stock it is heavily modified. Others have only minor modifications and additions, practically a stock experience with a couple of extra features. Pick a handful with features you want and try each for a couple of days. Feel free to switch kernels from the one that comes with each ROM.
Custom UI? If you mean bootloader or something like that, not really. There have been one or two devs who have tried to make this possible (not specific to the Nexus S) but i don't think their (working?) attempts have taken off. Don't get your hopes up here though.
Harbb said:
1) Best way of rooting: We have a Nexus device so i would not waste time using one clicks. Unlock the bootloader using fastboot, flash a custom recovery and then either flash superuser.zip or a custom ROM. This allows the most versatility when changing ROMs, mainly if you ever decide to flash or restore a stock ROM. The Nexus S allows you to lock the bootloader if you ever need to so warranty issues based on unlocked bootloaders are minimal.
4) Same with kernels. CyanogenMod is generally a good choice. Although on the surface it looks just like stock it is heavily modified. Others have only minor modifications and additions, practically a stock experience with a couple of extra features. Pick a handful with features you want and try each for a couple of days. Feel free to switch kernels from the one that comes with each ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Im fairly new to android OS and while I do generally understand what youre saying its best you give me some links. The only root Ive done with a phone so far are 1 clicks
4. can you elaborate more of why cyanogenmod is a good rom. I hear about it alot and people recommend it,but why?
also, what ROM do you use yourself?
WoolyMarmot said:
1. Im fairly new to android OS and while I do generally understand what youre saying its best you give me some links. The only root Ive done with a phone so far are 1 clicks
4. can you elaborate more of why cyanogenmod is a good rom. I hear about it alot and people recommend it,but why?
also, what ROM do you use yourself?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It'll all make sense as soon as you do it, I assumed you had a read through some rooting guides for the Nexus S.
The Nexus S uses a little flashing utility called fastboot. fastboot gives us the ability to replace certain parts of our phone with customised versions. For example, you can replace the stock Recovery partition (which only lets you install Google-signed .zip files) with a custom one, such as TWRP or ClockWorkMod (which let you install any correctly-formatted .zip file). To be able to use fastboot, you need to unlock the bootloader. On our phones it is possible to lock it again afterward with no trace, but the phones warranty would technically be voided (<-- scare tactics). So basically, you unlock the bootloader, flash a custom recovery and then you can freely install a .zip file through the recovery which gives you root privileges. Afterward with this new recovery, feel free to install custom ROMs and the such straight through it.
I personally used Zedomax's guide found here. This does exactly what i stated above and gives you all of the tools to do it, as well as a video. Just follow the video to a T and you'll be fine, it is all pretty simply laid out. I personally use CWM recovery though, not TWRP as it is no longer being developed. I'm pretty sure i explained what each of the steps do above.
CyanogenMod, unlike most other ROMs, have a somewhat large team of developers working together. They add many features to many phones which are often ported to other ROMs, whether it be the concept or the code. It is a great ROM once stable with countless features and they generally do a great job making sure everything is just about perfect, and there is plenty of support and a large userbase. This doesn't mean it's the best, it is just one of the most known.
I personally use Slim ICS daily right now. Largest benefit at the moment is compatibility with CMs bigmem mod, the phone loves the extra RAM.
well in that case I dont wanna use cyanogenmod. I was thinking something as close to stock(or just simple) as possible because I plan on using themes and widgets to customize it.
1 more question before I root, does it matter which version of OS it has? For example, this guide: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007782
nvm, phone already rooted
new question: is it possible to dual boot roms? Ive been reading and they say its possible with using particular apps and an SD card, but the nexus S has no sd slot so...

HTC One XL Questions + Help

Hi All,
I have the above and was thinking of rooting it but have some questions.
1/. If i root the phone do i also have to unlock the bootloader or is unlocking the bootloader only if i want to install a custom rom?
2/. If i only root the phone how can i make a backup of it in case i need to restore it to factory settings?
3/. Can someone recommened a custom rom and it features? I read alot about cleanrom.
4/. I also read about CM9 what does this do?
5/. One click unlock is that ok to use?
6/. What is the main difference when 1 roots there phone against not doing it? Does it change anything when installing? Does it give me extra abilitys with the phone?
Thanks in advance.
1/. If i root the phone do i also have to unlock the bootloader or is unlocking the bootloader only if i want to install a custom rom?
No you do not have to unlock the bootloader unless you want to install custom roms or recovery
2/. If i only root the phone how can i make a backup of it in case i need to restore it to factory settings?
You can you use an app like titanium back up to back up apps and data
If you unlock your bootloader you can install a custom recovery and create a nandroid back up which you can restore your phone to in the event of a problem
3/. Can someone recommened a custom rom and it features? I read alot about cleanrom.
This I really a matter of preference
4/. I also read about CM9 what does this do?
Cm 9 is close to vanilla android with some extra goodies like themes to name one
5/. One click unlock is that ok to use?
Should be fine just make sure to use the one that matches your current software ie 1.73 or 1.85
6/. What is the main difference when 1 roots there phone against not doing it? Does it change anything when installing? Does it give me extra abilitys with the phone?
Root in short gives permission to access and modify things in the system of your phone ie read and write privileges
Hope this helps
Sent from my Nocturnalized Beast
Android Noobie said:
Hi All,
I have the above and was thinking of rooting it but have some questions.
1/. If i root the phone do i also have to unlock the bootloader or is unlocking the bootloader only if i want to install a custom rom?
2/. If i only root the phone how can i make a backup of it in case i need to restore it to factory settings?
3/. Can someone recommened a custom rom and it features? I read alot about cleanrom.
4/. I also read about CM9 what does this do?
5/. One click unlock is that ok to use?
6/. What is the main difference when 1 roots there phone against not doing it? Does it change anything when installing? Does it give me extra abilitys with the phone?
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. You only need to unlock the bootloader if you want to install a custom recovery and rom
2. You can use an RUU for that, otherwise you need to unlock your bootloader and install a custom recovery in order to make backups (like restorable system snapshots)
3. The 3 versions of CleanROM are pretty good. Very stable and I'd say that all the features work that are supposed to. CM9 and AOKP are still in alpha at the moment and not everything works quite right. I can't speak for any other roms but I'm sure they're in the same boat as CleanROM
4. CM9 is a custom rom based on AOSP (Android Open Source Project). It's completely stock android but with lots of new features and tweaks. Right now it's in its 4th alpha. From what I've seen it's usable as a daily driver but there are still a lot of kinks to work out.
5. Yes
6. Rooting the phones gives you (and apps that you allow) access to the root file system of the phone. You can install custom bootanimations, remove carrier bloat, and do lots of other things that you wouldn't normally be able to do. I'm not gonna go over everything because that would take awhile
Thanks heaps for that.
Now just need a good place to get games for my HTC One Xl.
btw how does 1 say thanks without replying?

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