Related
This is not knocking our heavy-duty modders and developers, but it seems like in lots of threads folks ask questions and the answer always is to go to the custom ROMs. (Yes, I know they are good and do a lot!)
Could we maintain this, or another thread -- or could the admin set up a section for folks who have stock G-Tablets who want to improve and get the most out of them without ROMs?
I got my tablet 11/25 and when I turned it on, the first thing it did was download two updates. I have not had a lot of the really bad problems some of you earlier adopters had. So I would like to try a stock machine with program improvements before deciding whether to go custom ROM.
That said, I would like to install the Google Market, Contacts, Gmail, Calendar, etc. I am willing to root the tablet if that is needed to get all the software working.
Any suggestions -- references to non-ROM upgrades -- recommendations on how to accomplish the above will be appreciated. And I suggest there probably are a lot of other folks out there who would like to do the same thing. (If I'm right, post and speak up so the people with knowledge will know helping us is worth their time and effort.
Rev
P. S. -- Sorry this got so long. If a different thread is needed to get this done, someone feel free to get it started.
I don't find the stock g-tablet as horrible as many are reporting. It is not the same as an Android phone, and I guess that is what most people object to. I have installed the ViewSonic 1.01 update.
Here is what I have done:
1) Root it using Z4root. You can find it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=833953
2) Installed Android Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
EDIT: This version of Market does not work on the firmware update version 4349. For that use the package that Roebeet has supplied to us:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=12939008&postcount=40
It is installed as an update package, where you first unpack it, then place it into the /sdcard folder. Reboot holding both the Power and Volume+ button. Then select "Apply Internal update.zip", using the volume rocker to select, and the power button to enter the selection.
3) Do the Market fix to get access to all apps:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845175
4) Also install the AndRootFile app, available here:
http://www.getjar.com/mobile/39778/androotfile/
5) Install LauncherPro or ADW.Launcher
EDIT: This is no longer needed, as there is now a "Classic" home screen in the firmware update. But it can still be done if you want to try it.
6) Install Flash:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9172522&postcount=2058
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842040
7) Install OpenGL fix, so then you can install Angry Birds from Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=846463
This is no longer needed. The OpenGL update is included in the firmware update.
I think that is about it. If I think of something else, I'll add it.
wasserkapf said:
I don't find the stock g-tablet as horrible as many are reporting. It is not the same as an Android phone, and I guess that is what most people object to. I have installed the ViewSonic 1.01 update.
Here is what I have done:
1) Root it using Z4root. You can find it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=833953
2) Installed Android Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
3) Do the Market fix to get access to all apps:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845175
4) Also install the AndRootFile app, available here:
http://www.getjar.com/mobile/39778/androotfile/
5) Install LauncherPro or ADW.Launcher
6) Install Flash:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9172522&postcount=2058
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842040
7) Install OpenGL fix, so then you can install Angry Birds from Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=846463
I think that is about it. If I think of something else, I'll add it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not giving you a hard time but for someone who doesn't mind the stock interface everything you have done is pretty much the same as just installing TnTLite...
It may be true that "Waterhead" had done most of the same things some of the ROM mods do ---- BUT, he didn't have to flash anything like TNT or cwm, etc.
For those who don't want to flash, what he has provided here is a less risky path to decent performance.
Or for those who are less experienced and want to start out "lite" on their modding experience, this gives them a chance with less opportunity for making a fatal mistake.
I think there probably are a lot of folks who will own G-Tablets who will fall into this category.
And with a route to learn modding and work their way up to really serious modding, I think we will have done them a big favor.
Thanks for the posts. I think we have started a good thing in this thread. And thanks to you more experienced folks who are willing to help get those folks started.
And......it just could be that if we provide an opportunity for the unexperienced folks to make their tablet right -- more people will buy them. IMHO.
Rev
Sprdtyf350 said:
Not giving you a hard time but for someone who doesn't mind the stock interface everything you have done is pretty much the same as just installing TnTLite...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I did is no different than what a person does to a PC. You install the needed programs and drivers. And maybe customize your desktop.
As a long-time Linux user, I am fully capable of installing from scratch. I just see no need to do that with the g-tablet. I actually like the weather app as a homepage.
So you have the TnT UI (Stock 3 Homescreen UI) and Launcherpro/ADW? If people are going to go this route, then I would suggest installing home switch app from the market.
xmr405o,
Two things:
(1) My model with updates has a three-screen "Home" already -- one with weather/clock/news, one with "To-Do" lists, and a third I use so little I have forgotten what is on it.
(2) I have installed Launcher Pro and when I choose a task that will require launching, my firmware gives me a choice of the regular "Home" or LP to do that job.
What would the app you are recommending do beyond this??? More info??!!
Rev
Seriously, what is so intimidating about installing a rom? You cannot brick these things, it's impossible to do.
Thanks for this thread.
My wife picked one of these up at Office Depot the other day. She knows I have been waiting on Adam and thought I might like this instead. I have yet to open the G Tablet until seeing what the supposed Dec 19th update brings. I am new to android and hesitant to start at the deep end of the pool with modding a $399 toy on day one.
From all the reviews it sounds like a solid piece of hardware and that most issues are with TnT and the lack of Google support for tablets. Do you think this device will get Gingerbread and full support from Google eventually?
My only other concern is the LCD, which is turning out to be hard to judge without having seen the demo unit.
Ideally I just want a clean Android 2.2 experience with the ability to install and use the typical apps (gmail, flash, twitter, facebook, angry birds, etc). If this thing can be made into a solid purchase maybe I would just skip Adam and wait for a next gen tablet like Eve which should be on Tegra3/honeycomb.
rayden25 said:
Seriously, what is so intimidating about installing a rom? You cannot brick these things, it's impossible to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this is true, that's awesome!
This quote from an earlier post answer the question asked as well as I ever could:
"I am new to android and hesitant to start at the deep end of the pool with
modding a $399 toy on day one."
I've already said I have no problem with the people who want to go the ROM flashing direction.
But there are people who would like to be more conservative while they learn something new.
Would it be such as bad thing to just help them?
Rev
P. S. -- And, personally, the first computer I ever built I soldered and put evey part together. I have been doing hardware and programming since 1979. But still, I am new to Android....and the documentation is lacking...and somethings are not explained well in the threads....so like the person I quoted I would like to move a little slower and not take chances until I am ready. And eventually I may get a second G-Tablet I can afford to mess up. But right now I want improve my tablet without the risk. IMHO.
jfholijr said:
If this is true, that's awesome!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing is impossible.. We just haven't found the person to do it yet
It is pretty forgiving though. And I have been able to get going again every time I have gotten into a crazy spot.
butchconner said:
This quote from an earlier post answer the question asked as well as I ever could:
"I am new to android and hesitant to start at the deep end of the pool with
modding a $399 toy on day one."
I've already said I have no problem with the people who want to go the ROM flashing direction.
But there are people who would like to be more conservative while they learn something new.
Would it be such as bad thing to just help them?
Rev
P. S. -- And, personally, the first computer I ever built I soldered and put evey part together. I have been doing hardware and programming since 1979. But still, I am new to Android....and the documentation is lacking...and somethings are not explained well in the threads....so like the person I quoted I would like to move a little slower and not take chances until I am ready. And eventually I may get a second G-Tablet I can afford to mess up. But right now I want improve my tablet without the risk. IMHO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said in my earlier post... I am not trying to give anyone a hard time and understand people wanting to keep them stock. You should be able to and have a useful tablet. When they first came out it wasn't so easy, and still isn't. Programs would not install because of memory mapped wrong, wifi disappeared after waking from sleep, time would reset every boot. The latest Viewsonic update has fixed some of those things, but not all. I flashed mine because I knew I was driving a Z06 Corvette with a Vega motor in it that had power windows that didn't work. I wanted the capability I knew was under the hood and the only way to get it was to flash a new rom. Or wait, and hope that Viewsonic eventually did it in an update.
I picked up my tablet back when they first came out. Seems like a long time ago but was really only a month. I read read all the pages in the original huge thread that existed before the G Tablet received a home of its own here. I would read what people were doing, read what they were breaking, and then when I felt comfortable enough that success was a possibility I would give it a shot. I have worked with computers myself since the early 80's and am comfortable building, installing, breaking, etc. Android is definitely different, but mostly to have fun with your tablet you don't have to know much more than how to flash a rom. Back before there was a recovery path things were pretty spooky and I did a lot of reading and waiting to see what worked. Things have progressed now to where if you can unzip a rom package to your internal SD card so you end up with an update.zip file, and a recovery folder all that is left is to hold the volume up button while pressing the power button and about 2 minutes later you are all done. And your Z06 will actually have power windows, and the right engine..
The specs on this tablet are probably the best out there right now. The software chosen just doesn't properly utilize most of it. Maybe the December 19 update being talked about will make it right out of the box. I hope so...
And no matter which path you take, stock, or modded... If trouble comes the answers so far have all been here in the forums...
xmr405o said:
So you have the TnT UI (Stock 3 Homescreen UI) and Launcherpro/ADW? If people are going to go this route, then I would suggest installing home switch app from the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I only installed LauncherPro. When I want to bring up the original TapnTap UI, I use the icon in the app list.
If you install both LauncherPro and ADW, then the home switcher app would be a good idea.
rayden25 said:
Seriously, what is so intimidating about installing a rom? You cannot brick these things, it's impossible to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a ZT-180, and have flashed it several times. You had to mess with it just to get it to a useful state. But eventually you want to stop re-installing things and just use it. The stock g-tablet is wonderful compared to the stock ZT-180.
I guess that I come to this with a different perspective.
Great post! I've done exactly what you've done and am pleased with the result.
Thanks
z4padroot
trying to root g tablet with z4padroot.1.3.0.apk, answer: could not parse.
please advise.
I don't know about the program you used, but I used z4root as mentioned in the second or third post in this thread. It installed flawlessly and all I had to do to root was click one icon! Good luck!
Rev
wasserkapf said:
I don't find the stock g-tablet as horrible as many are reporting. It is not the same as an Android phone, and I guess that is what most people object to. I have installed the ViewSonic 1.01 update.
Here is what I have done:
1) Root it using Z4root. You can find it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=833953
2) Installed Android Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
3) Do the Market fix to get access to all apps:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845175
4) Also install the AndRootFile app, available here:
http://www.getjar.com/mobile/39778/androotfile/
5) Install LauncherPro or ADW.Launcher
6) Install Flash:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9172522&postcount=2058
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842040
7) Install OpenGL fix, so then you can install Angry Birds from Market:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=846463
I think that is about it. If I think of something else, I'll add it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you very much, have you tried vimeo?
jae-v said:
thank you very much, have you tried vimeo?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is vimeo?
Anyone root their ViewSonic yet. I have been googling about looking for Android 2.2 root methods and just wondering if I risk totally bricking this device. It seems that getting root and installing busy-box *should* work.
Any and all help greatly appreciated.
UH...
don't mean to sound rude, but this is like walking into starbucks and asking if they have coffee!
Check the development forum one level back, and you'll see several pinned posts with instructions to replace the software with something much better!
Life in LA said:
don't mean to sound rude, but this is like walking into starbucks and asking if they have coffee!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, that's funny as hell! Though I have walked into Starbucks and they were out of coffee, and I live in Starbucks central (Seattle)
@the original poster - This is the thread that I used to put CyanogenMod on mine:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=851657
There's also a "Super Simple One step root" out there.
nink said:
Anyone root their ViewSonic yet. I have been googling about looking for Android 2.2 root methods and just wondering if I risk totally bricking this device. It seems that getting root and installing busy-box *should* work.
Any and all help greatly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Follow the G Tablet Super Thread. It gives you everything you want for a new start-up: market Fix, Rooting,etc...
nink said:
Anyone root their ViewSonic yet. I have been googling about looking for Android 2.2 root methods and just wondering if I risk totally bricking this device. It seems that getting root and installing busy-box *should* work.
Any and all help greatly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow! I guess I could ask if anyone has taught you to read yet.... Try it, it really works.
Thanks folks. Being my first rooting efforting in android, I hope I succeed.
nink said:
Thanks folks. Being my first rooting efforting in android, I hope I succeed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be ok. Just read up and follow the directions. This tablet is pretty forgiving. And it is really nice once all the stock stuff is gone.
Have fun
Not Starbucks, but same idea
Life in LA said:
don't mean to sound rude, but this is like walking into starbucks and asking if they have coffee!
Check the development forum one level back, and you'll see several pinned posts with instructions to replace the software with something much better!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Our local Burger King ran out of burgers once. Only had chicken and fries. Kinda false advertising. ;P Bad management issue, I had heard.
Funny story, I spent this past summer in Beijing, China, and the one time my friends and I decided to try to go get some fried chicken at a Kenny Rogers Roasters. All they had was half a chicken left lol Well, I never got that fried chicken in China
But, yeah, the forum is easy to READ and find instructions how to root/install custom roms
I don't think I even used the stock build on this tablet - first boot everything fc'd on me. Rebooted and installed TnT lite in pretty much one go.
Sent from my GTablet-TnT-Lite using Tapatalk
billmarquette said:
I don't think I even used the stock build on this tablet - first boot everything fc'd on me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Proud to say I have never seen the default ui on this device! The first time I booted it was to mod it, lol
Life in LA said:
don't mean to sound rude, but this is like walking into starbucks and asking if they have coffee!
Check the development forum one level back, and you'll see several pinned posts with instructions to replace the software with something much better!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ROFLMAO
@OP
Missed the dev forum didya?
(I had problems with the News app/widget thing in the 1.0 version of TnT, then I had problems with the weather app/widget after the 1.01 OTA update for TnT, at which point I dumped TnT for TnT lite 2.0.2 ... if the sw had worked well, I wouldn't have minded the shipped "launcher" too much... but TnT apparently needs ALOT more dev time as it seemed to be beta quality at best, if not alpha...)
Well I rooted successfully. Remounted certain system folders as rw. BEFORE I installed the TNT 2.20 I used the stock recovery tool , I made a backup to sdcard and copied that to my Linux box.
So far so good. At first I was a bit miffed to find the /system or /etc mounted ro, but got around that with busybox sudo..
Now my task is to tinker a bit around with the user-space services.
I am finding, that unlike a system-V (/etc/rc?.d with init.d), user-space tweaking in the sense of auto starting apps or whatever is not as simple as: write shell script, place in proper location, re-boot.... seems I need to write an actual app that listens for "ACTION_BOOT_COMPLETE". I sure wish it was simpler.
Oh, is the titanium backup worth it? Or is the system backup I created using the "power-on+volume-up" method just as good. Seems the method provided by ViewSonic is fine enough. However, I did not see any mention of it in the forum (my system seems to have been created on 11/22/2010, based on the system directories date before I TNTed my tablet).
Again, many thanks to those who pointed me in the proper direction. I really appreciate your input.
nink said:
Well I rooted successfully. Remounted certain system folders as rw. BEFORE I installed the TNT 2.20 I used the stock recovery tool , I made a backup to sdcard and copied that to my Linux box.
So far so good. At first I was a bit miffed to find the /system or /etc mounted ro, but got around that with busybox sudo..
Now my task is to tinker a bit around with the user-space services.
I am finding, that unlike a system-V (/etc/rc?.d with init.d), user-space tweaking in the sense of auto starting apps or whatever is not as simple as: write shell script, place in proper location, re-boot.... seems I need to write an actual app that listens for "ACTION_BOOT_COMPLETE". I sure wish it was simpler.
Oh, is the titanium backup worth it? Or is the system backup I created using the "power-on+volume-up" method just as good. Seems the method provided by ViewSonic is fine enough. However, I did not see any mention of it in the forum (my system seems to have been created on 11/22/2010, based on the system directories date before I TNTed my tablet).
Again, many thanks to those who pointed me in the proper direction. I really appreciate your input.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't know about all the other stuff but Viewsonic did not have a recovery option. Had to be something you installed while rooting, or whatever. The system backup in Clockwork is great for times when your tablet won't work because of something, or a program that went wrong. Titanium is great for when you have a zillion apps installed and want to install a new rom, or reload a clean version. Titanium will then let you put all your apps back without having to download them from the market, or sideload them all again. It is also useful when you have an app you can't find but it may be on your phone. You can backup the app on your phone and then move it to your tablet to install.
Sprdtyf350 said:
[...]recovery option[...]Had to be something you installed while rooting, or whatever. The system backup in Clockwork
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I think you are right. My first effort in the rooting process was to install the clockwork, but I thought it failed. However, it must not have as when I run the backup (and pay attention) I saw the "ClockWork...... msgs". Definitely a nifty tool.
FYI troops:
I was quite successful, with much thanks to all of you and your wonderful efforts.
- got market place working (however have not needed it yet at all)
- installed groomdroid (a php aware webserver)
- installed php-cgi so that groom processes ".php" web pages.
- installed php-cli program for command line php capabilities.
- installed TitaniumBackup (need to use it, probably soon)
- installed adobe flash, and it works just fine
Now to:.
- browser that is truly html5 capable (this may be dreaming as most have various parts of html5 disabled, such as the "<video>" element. However, there is a new Opera browser available that is *supp5osed* to be <video> capable. FYI: some webkit browsers, such as the QT-webkit have the html5 video element capability disabled on purpose.
- autostart apps of my choosing (I have a feeling I will be writing droid apps to accomplish this)
Again, many thanks folks.
When I get my device set up as I need it, I will post how I did it. I am trying to document the process as best I can.
I thought this was a hilarious thread, and I was going to make a joke at the OP just for fun, but I am REALLY happy that despite the doofus thread opening that nink has figured it out and has joined the ranks.
Hope you have happy flashing and have fun (and don't worry all of us were pretty lost when we began)
Greetings,
I have looked at information on the internet (including this forum) with regards to loading different a different OS onto the TF101. There is a lot of information on how to do it, but very little explaining how satisfactory the result is.
Here is my situation:
I have ordered a refurbished TF101 + Dock for under $400 delivered. This is covered by a 12-Month warranty.
My plan was to use this device primarily as a work-oriented device. I am studying law and am required to take excessive notes, apply for clerkships, and write fully referenced (NB: footnoted) essays.
I only have 2gb per month of mobile data which means I spend a lot of time at various educational institutions. I also work mobile pretty often (train ride into city, etc). Essentially I'll be using this primarily as a netbook with an awesome battery life
While the TF101 seems like an perfect device for someone with my lifestyle, the lack of any android app which allows for footnoting is unforgivable. The decision to dual-boot ubuntu is a logical solution.
Onto my questions:
1. Is there any issue setting up dualboot on a TF101 from a bootable USB drive on a windows based OS?
2. How does ubuntu run on the TF101 in terms of productivity? I have read about what functions are supported; but I'm wondering how it all works in practice. It doesn't seem like anyone has turned their TF101 into an ultrabook with a killer battery life and tablet functionality.
3. I have read that bricking is always reversible. Is this the case? I don't plan on deviating from instructions from xda. I understand that there is always a risk, I just want to know my chances.
4. Does it matter whether HC or ICS is loaded on this tablet when it arrives? Are there any steps I should take to update the OS before dual-booting
5. Are there any drawbacks to clocking to 1.4Ghz? Does this affect battery life and if so, to what extent?
6. Is there a lite version of ubuntu I could dual-boot on my TF101 to improve performance/work efficiency? If so, how would this change the instructions listed: http://forum.xda-developers.com/wik..._an_Asus_EEEPad_Transformer#Installing_Ubuntu. Would installing a lite version be necessary? Could the TF101 handle full office applications running a full version of ubuntu without increasing the clock speed? I'm just trying to get a sense of how sharp the TF101 feels running programs on ubuntu.
7. Are there any other things I should consider to optimise my TF101 to perform at the level I indicated?
Thanks for bearing with me. If it seems like I've bought the wrong device, I just find it amazing that I could have a low-spec ultrabook and a tablet with a battery life better than both for under $400. I figure I can boot android for tablet use (calendar, browsing, reading) and ubuntu when I need to get some serious office-type work done
Thanks again for reading.
Let me try to address these one at a time to help you out with your purchase, also glad to see you pick the TF It's a wonderful tablet.
"This is covered by a 12-Month warranty." - If you install Ubuntu, root or otherwise, it will almost Surely void this warranty, so be careful as it is refurbished, inspect carefully and make sure it isn't a lemon (bad tablet).
"the lack of any android app which allows for footnoting is unforgivable" - Quickoffice seems to support this, although it is $20 -- link.
1. A bootable USB stick setup on windows WILL NOT work on the tf, you must use the Android Debug Bridge to install it on the tf. Instructions in link below.
2. It works, but not like desktop ubuntu, as the ARM processor doesn't support 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit applications. So WINE WILL NOT work, AT ALL.
Read what will and will not work here.
3. This is heavily dependant on the version of your tablet, older (b60 or lower) devices have sbkv1 and therefore support NVFlash, which means you can always (unless you.. microwaved your tablet or something..) restore a brick. If you have a newer (most b70s and all b80s and up) sbkv2 tablet like mine, it will not work. If you follow instructions carefully when messing with your device though it's pretty hard to COMPLETELY brick it, although all user data can be at risk.
NOTE! If you have a tablet with sbkv2 you Can Not install Ubuntu on it with the installer. I won't say At All, as there is probably a way, but it would be very hard.
4. You would probably want to update to ICS first, Asus provides this update through ota updates pushed to the transformer or off of their website. It is a smoother experience. Or you could root and flash a custom ROM, (even smoother! ) Also see #5
5. If you want to overclock to 1.4 Ghz you Must Root and flash a custom rom and Kernel (important) that supports overclocking, and may not be able to use ubuntu at the same time as it seems to overwrite the recovery slot (correct me if I'm wrong someone). It does affect battery life by a noticeable amount, (roughly 20% would be my guess) and you really shouldn't need to OC if you're just word processing though. The tf is a pretty fast tablet xD I overclock mine to 1.2 for general use and gaming.
6. Searched, and not that I could find, sorry :/
7. Yes, flash a custom Rom and Kernel, there are many to choose from! The ones I use work great and are in my signature. ARHD Rom and TastyMehIcs kernel. It's all up too you though.
In conclusion I think you would be better off using android as the Ubuntu is pretty limited, quickoffice should be fine. Go ahead and optimize it though, and if you have a sbkv1 tablet you can try it out!
ToD
Edit: You could also look into remote desktop to computer to word process, but that would lock you to your 3g wifi speed and be non-native. -shrugs- Splashtop HD is pretty fast on a home n+ wifi network.
Thanks!
Thanks for your response - it changes everything!
"the lack of any android app which allows for footnoting is unforgivable" - Quickoffice seems to support this, although it is $20 -- link.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually spent quite a while looking around for android apps with full office functionality. Like quickoffice, I found that numerous apps supported viewing footnotes, but none which actually allowed for their creation.
The only solution I've found for footnote creation via android is google docs desktop view, but it's really barely functional at best on android.
I'd also like to use freeware when possible.
1. A bootable USB stick setup on windows WILL NOT work on the tf, you must use the Android Debug Bridge to install it on the tf. Instructions in link below.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, I've never actually installed linux on my computer, but I'll cross that bridge when I get to it
2. It works, but not like desktop ubuntu, as the ARM processor doesn't support 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit applications. So WINE WILL NOT work, AT ALL.
Read what will and will not work here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think this will be a problem. For what I'll use the tablet for, it seems like I'll have plenty of office, video, and utility applications that run natively on ubuntu.
3. This is heavily dependant on the version of your tablet, older (b60 or lower) devices have sbkv1 and therefore support NVFlash, which means you can always (unless you.. microwaved your tablet or something..) restore a brick. If you have a newer (most b70s and all b80s and up) sbkv2 tablet like mine, it will not work. If you follow instructions carefully when messing with your device though it's pretty hard to COMPLETELY brick it, although all user data can be at risk.
NOTE! If you have a tablet with sbkv2 you Can Not install Ubuntu on it with the installer. I won't say At All, as there is probably a way, but it would be very hard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a problem; I've determined the item in the mail is an sbkv2.
This link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1345049 says I can still root the sbkv2. Are there any implications that would prevent me from dual-booting ubuntu?
Otherwise, you've convinced me that clocking would be unnecessary. I really would like to dual-boot ubuntu eventually however for the flexibility (and freeware-ness) of the applications.
For instance, I might download a video clip or pdf, need to unzip it and then find it needs a weird codec to play.
I'm not really a fan of "apps" on mobile devices. I find that they are generally very limiting: they use too much processing power for what they are, they often have an unreasonable price-tag/bloatware, and they are designed for small mobile devices, so the interface lacks functionality.
For example; none of the android office apps support footnote creation. Only some support viewing. Clearly the hardware of the TF101 would allow it to footnote easily, so I feel like I should have the ability to use this hardware to achieve the functionality of a netbook
That said, I'm keen to use the whole android/mobile app interface when I've separated the tablet from the dock and recline to watch youtube or check my emails
Alright, I'll look into it more as to getting Ubuntu on a sbkv2, as I'd want to do it too, but for now, assume no as I've looked into it before and no cigar.. I believe there is a chroot method but that is slow buggy non-native etc so it's probably not what you're looking for. Using desktop view in Dolphin Browser HD is actually about the same as pc browsing, just tested on google docs. Or you could always type out your docs on the tablet then get on a pc/desktop view and add footnotes later. (roundabout, I know x.x)
Rooting the sbkv2 and romming is easy, but sadly Nvflash doesn't work at all till ASUS unlocks the bootloader or someone cracks it.
"I'm not really a fan of "apps" on mobile devices. I find that they are generally very limiting: they use too much processing power for what they are, they often have an unreasonable price-tag/bloatware, and they are designed for small mobile devices, so the interface lacks functionality. "
The way android works helps to manage processing power very well, so you shouldn't be worried about a smooth experience if you root rom and optimize. As for the design most major apps have an HD version specifically for tablets, and many are free (if you can get past ads or use a blocker ) Any other questions/concerns?
Thing O Doom said:
Any other questions/concerns?
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Click to collapse
At this point I'm only really trying to figure out whether there is a way to dual-boot ubuntu. I have more reading to do, but my current reading suggests that it's possible - just not sure how accessible the process is to someone like me.
Law here allows us to return an unopened product within 7 days of purchase, so I will have to weigh up whether I can reasonably expect a way to run ubuntu in the future, and whether I should just have fun with android in the meantime.
I'll be happy to keep it if I thought there'd be a way to run ubuntu (or asus releases the key) sometime in the next couple of months. Otherwise I've just spent $400 on something that my current (old, heavy, 1hr battery) laptop does better.
EDIT: Remote desktop isn't a possibility due to my lack of internet.
2ND EDIT: I've made a bit of a mistake: the model no is TF101-1B180A, but as far as I know it is skbv1 (fingers crossed) which means I can use the PRIME installer. I guess I shall find out tomorrow morning!
Thanks again for the help!
What you really need to find out is the serial number - If it's B60 or lower it is sbkv1, if it's B70 it could be either (mine is a b70 but is sbkv2, my friends is a sbkv1, we both got it in best buy on the same day ) The ubuntu help and installer thread in the dev forum can help you if you have sbkv1, I can help walk you through everything if you'd like too. Asus is 'planning' to release the bootloader, which will happen eventually as people continue to pester them, and there is a way I'm sure.
Just an F.Y.I it is possible to install Ubuntu on an SBK2 device followinf the instructions in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1537566
As for the speed of it, it is not great(I did the mount-loop install on the internal storage which is at least faster than installing on an sdcard). I havn't tried overclocking yet to see if that helpls. Also a number of things do not work at all/ need some tweaking to work.
how about tethering from wifi from your phone and using something like splashtop?
I have a TF101G so the internet issue is a bit less troublesome.
That guide you linked seems a bit roundabout, but I'll try it out and if it works TYSM xD Thanks. ^^
It is layed out pretty well in the third post. I used the Dual-boot with loopmounted image option and just followed the instructions in that post. Just make sure you have rooted and installed cwm recovery.
Also I am not sure if the android kernels linked in the post are ics or hc ones, but if you upgrade to ics there are a couple kernels available in the dev section.
Theres an app called ubuntu installer, it isn't native but may work about the same, also testing now.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA
Thing O Doom said:
Theres an app called ubuntu installer, it isn't native but may work about the same, also testing now.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't bother with that, it is far too slow to be useful in my experience.
EDIT: deleted because it sounds negative. Basically I'll need to try to return/sell this if I can't get ubuntu working because android cannot do what I need it to.
As I pointed out previously it doesn't matter if you have an sbkv2 device as far as installing Ubuntu is concerned.
Just follow the instructions here after rooting the device.
It is not perfect though, there are a few bugs and as far as I know no one has got hardware graphical acceleration working yet so you can't watch videos. I think sound isn't working yet either.
Also don't expect the same programs you would find in windows or even linux normally as many programs have yet to be ported to arm based linux.
Nairbly said:
As I pointed out previously it doesn't matter if you have an sbkv2 device as far as installing Ubuntu is concerned.
Just follow the instructions here after rooting the device.
It is not perfect though, there are a few bugs and as far as I know no one has got hardware graphical acceleration working yet so you can't watch videos. I think sound isn't working yet either.
Also don't expect the same programs you would find in windows or even linux normally as many programs have yet to be ported to arm based linux.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the instructions.
I NEED this device to be able to perform full word procesing as a minimum. I also want to be able to have multiple windows open so I can actually see what I'm writing, and I would like to be able to see what I'm typing as I type it instead of a second later. I need to be able to use keyboard shortcuts and select text easily. Lastly, I need to be able to streamline the OS so it can run quickly.
If a TF101 with ubuntu dual-booted is unable to accomplih this, somebody please tell me now.
umfortunately I have:
Chip UIP: 0x42890884140b097
SBkv2
Now looking up instuctions to root SBKv2
Nairbly said:
As I pointed out previously it doesn't matter if you have an sbkv2 device as far as installing Ubuntu is concerned.
Just follow the instructions here after rooting the device.
It is not perfect though, there are a few bugs and as far as I know no one has got hardware graphical acceleration working yet so you can't watch videos. I think sound isn't working yet either.
Also don't expect the same programs you would find in windows or even linux normally as many programs have yet to be ported to arm based linux.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nairby,
You didn't mention how to root an SKBv2. Would you use the Universal root toolkit 7.1 found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1185104 ?
If its on ICS: Vipermod option 1.
If it's on HC, root with the razorclaw tool by downgrading the firmware then flash an ics rom. Very easy and no computer required.
Thing O Doom said:
If it's on HC, root with the razorclaw tool by downgrading the firmware then flash an ics rom. Very easy and no computer required.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I receive the message "this device lacks the needed file (bad luck)" after insalling
Good day all.
Last summer I accepted to install Google Now after some suggestion from Google. I quickly realized that this was extremely intrusive and overtook my pad time and again. At the time I blamed that on the fact that my pad was fairly new and was extremely buggy and unstable in every respect.
Now, after many updated and firmware fixes, my Transformer TF700 is much more stable. Lately Google Now has started popping up unasked overtaking the pad. It crashes whatever application I am using and just sits in the lower left corner as if waiting for me to use it. While my pad goes through these episodes, that can last from few minutes up to half an hour, my pad is completely useless.
I have uninstalled everything I can find that resembles Google Now but that does not seem to be enough. I simply can not do anything at all. Anything I try to do the Google Now crashes. I have been able to "force" my way into the app manager (meaning I just make continuous attempts to get into setting/Apps until successful) but there is no Google Now available under running apps.
I have installed all updates and am at version 4.1.1
Any ideas what I can do? This is just too annoying and just last night this behavior prevented me taking meeting minutes in a very important meeting.
Help! Please!
Ólafur
Olafur said:
Good day all.
Last summer I accepted to install Google Now after some suggestion from Google. I quickly realized that this was extremely intrusive and overtook my pad time and again. At the time I blamed that on the fact that my pad was fairly new and was extremely buggy and unstable in every respect.
Now, after many updated and firmware fixes, my Transformer TF700 is much more stable. Lately Google Now has started popping up unasked overtaking the pad. It crashes whatever application I am using and just sits in the lower left corner as if waiting for me to use it. While my pad goes through these episodes, that can last from few minutes up to half an hour, my pad is completely useless.
I have uninstalled everything I can find that resembles Google Now but that does not seem to be enough. I simply can not do anything at all. Anything I try to do the Google Now crashes. I have been able to "force" my way into the app manager (meaning I just make continuous attempts to get into setting/Apps until successful) but there is no Google Now available under running apps.
I have installed all updates and am at version 4.1.1
Any ideas what I can do? This is just too annoying and just last night this behavior prevented me taking meeting minutes in a very important meeting.
Help! Please!
Ólafur
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google now should work fine on your tablet. You definitly have some issue with your OS, I suggest you should download the full firmware from Asus, do a factory reset then reflash the full firmware. This should fixed your Google now and anything else too.
Olafur said:
Good day all.
Last summer I accepted to install Google Now after some suggestion from Google. I quickly realized that this was extremely intrusive and overtook my pad time and again. At the time I blamed that on the fact that my pad was fairly new and was extremely buggy and unstable in every respect.
Now, after many updated and firmware fixes, my Transformer TF700 is much more stable. Lately Google Now has started popping up unasked overtaking the pad. It crashes whatever application I am using and just sits in the lower left corner as if waiting for me to use it. While my pad goes through these episodes, that can last from few minutes up to half an hour, my pad is completely useless.
I have uninstalled everything I can find that resembles Google Now but that does not seem to be enough. I simply can not do anything at all. Anything I try to do the Google Now crashes. I have been able to "force" my way into the app manager (meaning I just make continuous attempts to get into setting/Apps until successful) but there is no Google Now available under running apps.
I have installed all updates and am at version 4.1.1
Any ideas what I can do? This is just too annoying and just last night this behavior prevented me taking meeting minutes in a very important meeting.
Help! Please!
Ólafur
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I gather you are on the stock ROM? You cannot actually uninstall any system module on stock; you can only disable them (same result on the exterior, though).
You could give unlocking and installing a custom ROM a thought: they generally either do not include Google Now at all or only at your own discretion (with CROMI, for example, it is an optional install). Are you rooted? If so, you can try installing Titanium Backup and freeze system modules in the app list and hunt it down that way. It seems to be starting up now, missing some component or access. I do not have it installed at all anymore (I found it useless out of the box, and although people recommended it as becoming better with time as it 'learned' what to present me with, I didn't find any improvement on finding the info myself by hand, and it is too US-centered for us Europeans, anyway -- I have no use for yesterday's American Football results.
buhohitr said:
Google now should work fine on your tablet. You definitly have some issue with your OS, I suggest you should download the full firmware from Asus, do a factory reset then reflash the full firmware. This should fixed your Google now and anything else too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I suppose I will attempt this and try to choke Google Now after reflashing.
I found the firmware on ASUS web but now I do not know how to proceed. I will look for info about reflashing.
What is mu best option regarding backing the tablet up? I have rather a lot of stuff locally on the tablet that I wish not to loose.
Thanks.
Ólafur
MartyHulskemper said:
I gather you are on the stock ROM? You cannot actually uninstall any system module on stock; you can only disable them (same result on the exterior, though).
You could give unlocking and installing a custom ROM a thought: they generally either do not include Google Now at all or only at your own discretion (with CROMI, for example, it is an optional install). Are you rooted? If so, you can try installing Titanium Backup and freeze system modules in the app list and hunt it down that way. It seems to be starting up now, missing some component or access. I do not have it installed at all anymore (I found it useless out of the box, and although people recommended it as becoming better with time as it 'learned' what to present me with, I didn't find any improvement on finding the info myself by hand, and it is too US-centered for us Europeans, anyway -- I have no use for yesterday's American Football results.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct, I am on the stock ROM and I have not rooted yet. The tablet was so unstable in the first few weeks after I got it so I did not dare void the warranty yet. After it has stabilized I might root it if there is a reason to.
Google Now is WAY to intrusive and, like you said, to US-centric to be of much use to me.
Is there a usable backup solution that does not require me to be rooted?
Thanks,
Ólafur
Olafur said:
You are correct, I am on the stock ROM and I have not rooted yet. The tablet was so unstable in the first few weeks after I got it so I did not dare void the warranty yet. After it has stabilized I might root it if there is a reason to.
Google Now is WAY to intrusive and, like you said, to US-centric to be of much use to me.
Is there a usable backup solution that does not require me to be rooted?
Thanks,
Ólafur
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Download the full firmware from Asus, unzip the file then copy the unzipped file to the root of your micro sdcard, you should see a notification for update, tab on it and let it rip! BTW, without root, not much you can do even try to backup your device.(it's not going to be a complete backup but a half ass one).
buhohitr said:
Download the full firmware from Asus, unzip the file then copy the unzipped file to the root of your micro sdcard, you should see a notification for update, tab on it and let it rip! BTW, without root, not much you can do even try to backup your device.(it's not going to be a complete backup but a half ass one).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi. ASUS has an Unlock Device App on its support page. If I get that and, backup, and reflash will I not be back to untooted? If that is so,will I not have trouble restoring my stuff?
As you realize I have not given this much time. I just want to use my devices and not have to be plagued by stuff like this. To me, my phone is a utility first, toy second. I do not have the time to play with it as much as I would like and therefore this kind of operation is all a bit blurry.
I am an IT manager and have been for over 20 years so I am technically aware but have not given my current Android platform enough time yet.
Many thanks,
Ólafur
Olafur said:
Hi. ASUS has an Unlock Device App on its support page. If I get that and, backup, and reflash will I not be back to untooted? If that is so,will I not have trouble restoring my stuff?
As you realize I have not given this much time. I just want to use my devices and not have to be plagued by stuff like this. To me, my phone is a utility first, toy second. I do not have the time to play with it as much as I would like and therefore this kind of operation is all a bit blurry.
I am an IT manager and have been for over 20 years so I am technically aware but have not given my current Android platform enough time yet.
Many thanks,
Ólafur
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, if you want your device to run really well, then you need to unlock your device and flash custom rom/kernel. Many ppl kicked themselves in the bud for not doing this sooner. Sure if you unlocked, warranty is voided, but it well worth the hassle. OK back to your topic, in order to root, without unlocking, you need to downgrade back to ICS version .30, root your device, install OTA root keeper, then do incremental upgrade back to JB. The only advantage with root is so you can install rooted backup app to backup all your apps (system apps, user's apps and all the settings), rooted will not improve your device performance at all, but if you unlocked and flash custom rom, you will see a huge improvement on performance.
Hello, all:
I am amazed by all that the board's members are doing, but I am also totally confused by all of it. I guess the best place to start is with where I am and where I want to go::fingers-crossed:
I have an ordinary TF-101, Wi-Fi only, with keyboard. I use it almost exclusively when I away from home, usually from 2 - 4 weeks at a time, to access my e-mails (via Wi-Fi). My problem is that on my Windows Desktop I use Thunderbird in Pop mode, downloading everything prior to processing. My problem is T'bird doesn't run in Android. So, I am trying to load a version of Ubuntu onto the tablet so I can run T'bird while away from home.
So, I guess that generates several questions:
1. Has anyone tried this and T'Bird won't run on Ubuntu on the TF-101, no matter what? A no means that's the end of the discussion!
2. If no one has tried this, which version of Ubuntu that can be loaded on the TF-101 is MOST likely to allow me to install and run T'bird?
3. I know that I must first root the TF-101 but there must be a dozen "ways" or "sites" that claim to do it - which would be the best one, from a nube's perspective?
4. As part of this, do I need to update Android (currently 4.0.3) and if so to what?
5. Finally, at least for now, which method for loading the desired version of Ubuntu should I use? Are there any "simple" instruction sets to do this?
Thank all of you for all of your work and in advance for any help that you can give me to help me solve my problem.
Sparky
1. Not me.
2. See #1.
3. I suggest easyflasher
4. No, you can root your stock firmware, whichever it is. Note that it will wipe yoru device (except /sdcard) so back up first.
5. See #1
On a side note, installing Ubuntewww just for Thunderburn is going through a huge hassle to get little benefit. There's plenty of powerful, even better, mobile clients. I use the build-in mail for personal accounts (6 of them) and k-9 mail for business (4 accounts).
Yea I would just find an Android email client to suit your needs
From what I know, there is not a 100% working Ubuntu for the TF101, iirc Hardware Acceleration doesn't work
Unless things have improved since I last checked
If that stock ROM is working fine for you, just hunt the Play Store for another email client to use
Some suggestion
http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-excellent-email-apps-for-android-compared/
http://www.engadget.com/2013/03/30/ae-android-email-app/
http://androidforums.com/samsung-galaxy-s3/703251-best-email-client.html
TheArtfulDodger said:
3. I know that I must first root the TF-101 but there must be a dozen "ways" or "sites" that claim to do it - which would be the best one, from a nube's perspective?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you do want to root the TF101, Frederuco's Guide to Root and ROM the TF101 at sorry not allowed to post the URL - just google the name.
As a newbie to android and the TF101 I found his guide perfectly clear and easy to follow and was rooted in no time at all.
Good luck
Ziggy
@Theziggy, glad you found my guide helpful. Here is a link to it: http://www.transformerforums.com/fo...t/31927-frederuco-s-guide-root-rom-tf101.html
Also, I have an info thread for KatKiss 4.2.2 and 4.3 for anyone new to those ROMs:
http://www.transformerforums.com/fo...ormerly-teameos-4-android-4-2-x-tf101-12.html
http://www.transformerforums.com/fo...f101-roms/38407-rom-jb-4-3-katkiss-tf101.html