Database Users

[GUIDE]The Definitive CM7/MIUI Flashing Tutorial - Updated(21-08-2011)

So, flashing Cyanogenmod7/MIUI on the SGS i9000 is an area covered in many, many tutorials to date. However, the vast majority of them are outdated or just downright confusing, this guide tries to make flashing CM7/MIUI as painless as possible.
DISCLAIMER: This guide is based on my personal experience in flashing CM7/MIUI and i take NO RESPONSIBILITY WHATSOEVER in whatever untoward happens to your phone and/or life if you follow this. Also, this guide is meant for the SGS I9000GT PHONE ONLY, other variants please do not follow this guide to the letter and download the appropriate files for flashing.
Edit: This guide can be used to flash MIUI roms as well, seeing as they share the same requirements of needing Froyo bootloaders.
MIUI roms available:
1.MIUI Official [MIUI.us]
2. Galnet MIUI [Galnet and team]
3. MIUI+ [Decalc and Mothatt]
4. fitMIUI [Andro!de]
5 Nothing Fancy [spasms]
Note that this is not an exhaustive list.
Okay, lets go
Now, there are 2 ways to go about flashing CM7/MIUI.
1. ROMmanager method.
-Simple, fast but thats another tutorial altogether
2. The ODIN + CWM flashing method.
- That's what this tutorials all about!
NOTE: For those who wish to pursue Method 1, rschenck has written a guide on it.
Okay, now for the tutorial.
Firstly, find out what firmware you are running. Gingerbread bootloaders are now able to run MIUI/CM7. These give better battery life and are thus encouraged.
Go to ->SETTINGS ->ABOUT PHONE and look at what Android/Firmware Version you are running. If you are on 2.3.x, please skip the conditional step, if you are 2.1.x OR 2.2.x, you have to upgrade your bootloaders to 2.3.x.
CONDITIONAL STEP: Upgrade to GB bootloaders. (FOR 2.1.X AND 2.2.X FIRMWARE VERSIONS ONLY, 2.3.X FIRMWARES PLEASE SKIP THIS SECTION.)
Go to EZboot page.
1. Go to that website and download the Gingerbread bootloaders.
2. Download Odin, if you haven't done so already.
3. If you don't have Kies, you would need Samsung Drivers, which you can easily find around this forum. I believe its a sticky somewhere.
4. Open Odin and put your phone in download mode before connecting it.
5. Set up Odin as per picture in the link provided(The gingerbread one)
6. Flash and wait for reboot!
/END OF CONDITIONAL STEP.
2. Acquiring CM7/MIUI.
CM7 users: CM7 uses the term Nightlies, which are actually so called "experimental" builds that are updated, well, nightly. Despite it being called experimental, most nightlies are actually stable for "everyday usage". So don't be scared to flash 'em!
So,
1. Download the latest(topmost) version of CM7 or the various MIUI roms. (Links above)
2. Transfer the .zip file onto your phone through ADB push or USB cable.
3. Make sure your phone is not connected to your computer or anything. You're almost there!
Third, Flashing time.
1. Boot into recovery mode using the following method.
(a) Phone off.
(b) Press in the following order: VOLUP, HOME, POWER.
2. Now you have to clean out your phone.
-Wipe CACHE
-Go into advance options, WIPE DALVIK CACHE
-Go into mounts and storage. FORMAT SYSTEM, DATA AND CACHE. (Three separate moves)
3. Go to 'Install zip from sdcard' and scroll to your CM7/MIUI .zip file.
Flash.
Wait for reboot. And. You are done.
Congratulations, you are now running CM7/MIUI.
For CM7 users: Go get GAPPs(Google Apps) for Android Market and other android apps. Stay updated by flashing updated Nightlies.
[Small expansion of guide] Flashing from MIUI
If coming from MIUI rom, and wishing to switch to CM7(or vice versa)
1. Download newest version of CM7(or MIUI, whichever the case) and place in phone.
2. Boot into recovery. Format Cache and System. Not necessary to format Data(will erase all apps) but is recommended for stability purposes. You can backup your apps using Titanium Backup or use the native backup app in MIUI.
3. Install from zip and choose the correct file. Flash it.
Done.
Please comment if this was helpful to you. And THANK if it helped you!
Credits:
codeworkx - http://twitter.com/codeworkx
coolya - http://twitter.com/dumdidum
guiper -http://twitter.com/guiperpt
-All for CM7
nitr8 - For EZboot
rschenck - For his guide
And of course, myself for writing this.

Thank you, Very useful

mrsufgi said:
Thank you, Very useful
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks glad it helped

slotteh said:
Now, there are 2 ways to go about flashing CM7.
1. ROMmanager method.
-Simpler, faster BUT requires premium version of ROMmanager(purchasable in market)
Note: Premium version not required but that's another tutorial altogether.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know this is supposed to be the definitive non-confusing guide, but I started reading your guide and 10 secs into it, you've posted confusing info:
info 1 - you state this first method requires PREMIUM ROMmanager
info 2 - in the very next sentence you state 'PREMIUM version not required"

After reading the rest of your guide, I have to conclude that it's just as - if not more than - confusing as other 'user guides' found in these forums. Your guide is only suitable for people who have learned by trial and error and are already comfortable with the nuances of wiping and flashing their phone.
Experienced users like myself have done it so many times I could do it with my eyes closed now, so I already know how to avoid missteps even if given incomplete, misleading or outright contradictory instructions, which your guide is full of.
I wish I had the time to go through the errors with a fine toothed comb, but I honestly don't at the moment (@work). That said, this guide either needs a complete re-write to improve readability and logic flow, or just be removed altogether.

evilsopure said:
After reading the rest of your guide, I have to conclude that it's just as - if not more than - confusing as other 'user guides' found in these forums. Your guide is only suitable for people who have learned by trial and error and are already comfortable with the nuances of wiping and flashing their phone.
Experienced users like myself have done it so many times I could do it with my eyes closed now, so I already know how to avoid missteps even if given incomplete, misleading or outright contradictory instructions, which your guide is full of.
I wish I had the time to go through the errors with a fine toothed comb, but I honestly don't at the moment (@work). That said, this guide either needs a complete re-write to improve readability and logic flow, or just be removed altogether.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright thanks for the feedback. It's the first guide I've tried to write so I think I've messed up a lot probably. I'll definitely try to re-write it. But thanks for the criticism.
Also, you've identified one area where I'm not very clear(ROManager part) and thanks for that. Do you have other specific examples of my post which are error-filled so that I can work on them? I want this thread to work. Thanks again

Have updated and removed contradictory statements.

Is it wrong this passage ?
1. Download the latest(topmost) version at : http://insanity.rollus.net/EZbase/img/sc/ezodin.png

Lord Style said:
Is it wrong this passage ?
1. Download the latest(topmost) version at : http://insanity.rollus.net/EZbase/img/sc/ezodin.png
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it is. Thanks very much for the spot
Edit: Edited it already. Thanks again

Thanks to slotteh for this guide.
Now I have CM 7 Nigthly 15 in my phone.

Stable cm7? Not for the sgs
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA Premium App

Mothatt said:
Stable cm7? Not for the sgs
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah i've been a little confused looking for it. I'll edit it.

slotteh said:
Yeah i've been a little confused looking for it. I'll edit it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@slotteh
one more MIUI rom, you may want to update your OP
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1184066

krarvind said:
@slotteh
one more MIUI rom, you may want to update your OP
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1184066
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks will do

Updated to include GB bootloaders flashing

what recovey do i need to install cm7 as it doesn't say or how do i install with odin

Are you sure if it's safe to flash MIUI rom with GB Firmware on every single one of the roms? I'm really considering fitMIUI, any suggestions?
Thanks for a nice guide.

bootloader
How i can flash only a new bootloader without lose all data?

Revise?
This section is not clear...
"Go to ->SETTINGS ->ABOUT PHONE and look at what Android/Firmware Version you are running. If you are on 2.2.x, please skip the conditional step, if you are 2.1.x OR 2.2.x, you have to upgrade your bootloaders to 2.3.x. "
I think this is a 'contradictory' point...
Otherwise, if this was a little proof-read, could be a dang good guide.
F x

Hi sorry for all late replies, have been a little busy, you may already have gotten answers to these but still,
got-petrol said:
what recovey do i need to install cm7 as it doesn't say or how do i install with odin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need Clockworkmod Recovery and unless you're coming from a stock rom, you should already have this.
In either case, onstallation of EZbase from odin has been covered pretty well here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1089989
It's really simple to follow, just make sure you have a full battery while flashing via odin.

[Q] Probs installing Cyanogenmod 7.1 on x8(E15i)

Hey.
I'm having difficulties with new cyanogenmod 7.1
I Followed different tutorials and none of them helped me.
I started with stock 2.1 rom and did all the unlocking bootlader stuff , then installed custom kernel and managed to install cyanogenmod 7.1 but then occurred a funny thing . There was only FreeXperia logo showing up, nothing else, and it rebooted all the time. Then I flashed stock rom again and tried to understand what's wrong and tried to use different kernels and nothing.
So my question is. Is there anything I'm missing here?
Henri.

Full wipe after you install rom.
Dot forget to make backups first.

about that...
i always do full wipe after installing roms, so it has to be something else.
Thnks anyway..
But after browsing several topics in XDA forum I saw that I'm not only one with the problem.
If anybody has had the problems like I do and got the solutions, every kind of tips are welcome.

Thread closed
I got it all working, but I don't know what was the reason, because, I just did the whole thing again about three or four times, and then it just booted and worked.

I never could install Cyanogenmod in my phone... could you?

Hey!!!
I could write a total working tutorial how I managed to get to work everything, but it takes time, so if you want tutorial send me private message , so I create it for you.
Henri

Does wifi and/or 3G work for you longer then 15 minutes?

No, but at the moment I'm using RC1 flawlessly.
Sent from my E15i using XDA App

coffee-break said:
I could write a total working tutorial how I managed to get to work everything, but it takes time, so if you want tutorial send me private message , so I create it for you.
Henri
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
umm..why not post it publicly man ? It will be useful for everyone including myself.

Would also like that tutorial

ok,
i'm gonna post it here after finishing it.

So, the wanted tutorial is here!
Firstly it's for xperia x8(E15i) to be superclear.
I'm gonna put that tutorial into steps.
STEP 1
You need to have stock 2.1 rom with baseband XXX015 , if you don't have it, then go to Sony Ericsson's webpage and download the upload service and flash it back into your phone.
STEP 2
You phone has to be rooted. Easieset way is using Superoneclick(sorry, i'm not gonna provide the link, because it's just google-ing thing to you who need rooting program)
STEP 3
Now, everything comes to the unlocking process for bootloader. there is also tutorial how to succeed when using s1tool and msm7227 (if you have problem, then I don't know). Try to undestand the tutorial of doing it.
S1tool is for identifying if your phone is unlocked or not.
and msm7227 is for unlocking
tut is here - LINK
I wish luck, don't brick your phone, but it's not so hard to understand tutorials if you have right phone and right tutorial.
STEP 4
I totally suggest to install stable rom. The reason is that released 7.1 has bugs and incompatibility with some phones and i haven't got wifi and 3g working , but tried different roms and kernels.
I provide links i got from deani77, big thanks to him.
You can try this link for FXP028 ROM - http://www.multiupload.com/IIWIPG1ALH
For FXP030 kernel try this link - http://hotfile.com/dl/132650338/7b17...USTOM.ftf.html
(that release is RC1 of Cyanogenmod 7.1 but I think it's the best at the moment!)
and you download all the files as usual. Rom zip package should be in the SD card's root folder, so you can easily install it after flashing kernel
STEP 5
installing is quite simple actually. You need to use flashtool that is provided with rom(link in step 3)
firstly you flash kernel. Kernel file is the one you downloaded .ftf file. You have to put that file(X8_custom.ftf) into firmware folder which is inside of flashtool folder.
Then you open flash tool and you click FLASH, then appears little window and you click ok and then you need to plug in your phone into usb while holding down back button. Your phone has to be off when you are doing that. Then flashtool identifies your phone and will flash the kernel into your phone. when everything comes smooth then you now have fxp custom kernel. it has clockworkmod recovery and you need to click several times back button when FreeXperia logo appears.
STEP 6
You have to do factory reset and format, also i suggest from advanced menu using format system.
Then you select from the recovery menu install custom zip... and you browse your rom .zip file and if everything is OK then it should display "installing update or smth" if it's done then good for you, you reboot and it should work.
IF YOU WANT GOOGLE APPS , then google the link and install it same way you did with the rom. You can do it any time.
..
So if anything is not understandable then ask. I'm not an expert or anything, I just did things like I described.
Best,
Henri.

i have still had problems with bootloop and passing md5 checksum any idea on how to fix this?

mm.. at the moment I don't know but what that md5 checksum means?

I fixed my bootloop issue when I flashed back to stock rom, then I just did all the steps I describe again (not unlocking bootloader because it was unlocked already) .. but I don't know what's really does the bootlooping thing. I just got lucky. It took me like billion hours until I got it working...

Whats Wrong with my fone? someone please help

i hope im posting this in the right place, ive never really messed with forums before, but anyways
ive done everything there is to do to get a custom rom on my streak (StreakDroid) including the whole flash recovery, when i do that it all seems like its working, but when i go to where you are supposed to install the streakdroid (when you turn your phone on with both volumes ect) soo when i get the screen with the blue letters, its tottally different it says something like "insert a SD card containing an update file(/sdcard/update.pkg and the only choice it gives me is press up on the volume to turn device off. BTW i did already had the streakdroid on my sd card. someone please HELP me
if this helps i have a Dell Streak from AT&T
V 2.2
Baseband Ver. 2.6.32.9-perf
OEM Ver. GAUSB1A135331
Build 15697
Thanks

Sounds like this might help.
You may also want to read this.

i already know all of this, but thanks for trying, i cant root it eather, i forgot to mention, it keeps failing, and ive tryed all versions of oneclick

Do this - you do not need root to use that method and is you read the previous links I posted you will figure out how to use StreakMod Recovery even if you aren't rooted.

I got same problem when I installed custom rom at very first time from stock 2.2.
Do this if still can boot to stock rom..
1) Rooting with Gingerbreak.apk , this will work..
2) After rooting done, use R.E and change one file in the system as this file automatically blocked custom recovery when reboot so your problem happened... your DS5 still booted on stock recovery even already flashed StreakMod recovery...
Read this.
3) After modifying one system file then flash StreakMod recovery then you can continue....
Hope this can help you.

i tried that too, but like ive said when i first made this post, when i go into streakmode (when i turn it on with both volume bottons ect) and go into mode after that all i get is something like for an emergency restore blah blah , idk whats wrong, ive done the streakmod right and still,

i have att 2.2 rom it wont allow me to install other source apks

Regarding the issues faced by the OP on this thread:
1. If you are seeing mention of an update file when trying to access StreakMod Recovery, then you let the Streak boot regularly once you installed StreakMod, rather than immediately booting into StreakMod Recovery. If you let the Streak boot normally, StreakMod Recovery gets overwritten. If you're trying to install StreakDroid, then you need to hold down volume down and up as soon as you finish flashing StreakMod Recovery via Fastboot to use it.
Custom ROMs do not have the problem with recovery images being overwritten.
2. The recommended method of rooting a Streak is to flash StreakMod Recovery and then flashing Superuser.zip through it. One click rooting methods are not 100% reliable. The OP is attempting to flash a custom ROM, which doesn't require flashing Superuser.zip. It DOES require flashing StreakMod Recovery.
3. AT&T was supposed to permit sideloading on newer AT&T ROMs. Go to Settings>Applications and make sure "Unknown Sources" is checked. If the option is not present in the ROM, then either the ROM must be changed or a PC application such as the Sideload Wonder Machine must be used.
OP, you were attempting to change the ROM to StreakDroid. Did you change your mind?

@Strephon Alkhalikoi man, just when i thought all hope was lost, your 1. step did it all thank you sooooooo much for finally having my problem solved
also thanks to marvin02 and androidunia for trying to help me, i appreciate it

Hit the thanks button next to my post, Marvin's post, and androidunia's post if we helped out.

taylorgang809 said:
@Strephon Alkhalikoi man, just when i thought all hope was lost, your 1. step did it all thank you sooooooo much for finally having my problem solved
also thanks to marvin02 and androidunia for trying to help me, i appreciate it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gee - the same info was available from my first post in this thread. All you had to do was click on a link and actually read. If you had you would have had the answer less then an hour after your OP.

marvin02 said:
Gee - the same info was available from my first post in this thread. All you had to do was click on a link and actually read. If you had you would have had the answer less then an hour after your OP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1......right !

[Q] Backing-up and flashing

Hey, guys (and girls? )! Just got a new DEFY+ couple of days back and I'd like to get the most out of it. It's already working all smooth and sexy, but I'm sure it can do better. So I need some assistance
Phone info:
DEFY+ (MB526)
Android 2.3.4
System 45.0.74.MB526.Retail.en.DE
Kernel 2.6.32.9-gbad50c3
Build 4.5.1-134_DFP-74
I've rooted it yesterday and I'm pretty sure it was successful, since the phone is working and I've got SuperUser on it since then (I've followed the root part of the all-in-one super DEFY guide thread)
About backing up, I would like to be able to go back to my old backup at any time. Is that even possible? I know I probably never will go back to it, but I like to play things safe. If it is possible, could you teach me how or point me to some nice guide/thread on that?
When it comes to flashing, I'd like to try CM, WAJKIUI and MS2G. Any more ROMs that are a must try? Now, I didn't quite understand... Are there different versions for defy and defy+? Or...which ROMs are compatible with defy+? I've read somewhere that all defy ROMs can't use defy+'s battery properly, so that's what concerns me. Nandload? How to?
I'm sorry if these are stupid questions, I've tried finding out everything from the guides, but I just didn't find enough information... I do have RSD (v5.0.0, is it okay?) and the drivers, all set up. I'm not asking for anyone to write an essay for me, it will be perfectly fine if you just point me to some (really really) good guides. I'll be grateful for any and every answer!
*EDIT #1* Well, I've tried to learn some more... Let's go step by step. Should I install 2ndInit app or some other custom recovery app?

I can beg if need be

"*EDIT #1* Well, I've tried to learn some more... Let's go step by step. Should I install 2ndInit app or some other custom recovery app?"
Hi,
as I've seen the guides, yes.
I've defy, so I didn't try it, but heard from many people with defy+ with CM or MIUI.
BUT before it I suggest to you:
- get a stock sbf of your rom. It is necessary if you want get back the original factory state. hope here you find it: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=966537
- install titanium backup from market (I know this, but you can install any similar app) and make a full backup (all user and system app). It saves all data, installed apps with settings ...
- make backup of your contacts and sms-s with stock app (it is possible I think)
- make backup of your sd content
After that you can install 2ndinitdefy. Follow the instructions in the program. I suggest 1.4.2 version. If it doesn't work go to 2.0. The 2.0 has instructions not on the main screen but in its menu.
After the 2 reboot (regarding 2ndinit install) you can do a nandroid backup with clockworkmod recovery.
Reboot, push vol down at blue led (after start with 8-10 sec). You are at bootloader. Use vol up/down to navigate and power to enter a menu. Go to recovery-> custom recovery->backup and recovery->backup all. It takes some time. You can save this nandroid to computer (just for safety ) You find it in sd/clockworkmod/backup.
Now you have backups. Go ahead, install the custom rom of your choice.
I recommend WajkIUI. You find the link in my signature and you find installing instructions in Wajk's first post. And of course there are defy+ users in that thread as I remember, you can ask question there.
ps: everything is your responsibility
Was it helpful? Just use thank button
Good luck bro/sis !!!

Thank you for such a long reply!
I have installed 2ndInit, using the v2.0 installer, but I chose the stable version of the 2nd init itself, instead of the latest one. That stable one said it was meant for CM and MIUI, so I'm guessing I'll be alright with WajkIUI as well!
I'll follow the steps you gave me for making a complete backup of everything on my phone and then I'll start looking for a ROM that's fully mb526 compatible (I need >10 posts to be able to post in the development section :/ )
P.S. I'm a bro

I see. This 10 post rule a bit annoying. But as I know you can send private message to anyone. In the Wajkiui thread there are some people with 526.

I've got my 10 posts Thank you once more and I'm sure we'll be talking again soon!

I'm having a hard time finding a full SBF of my stock ROM...
It's 4.5.1-134_DFP-74 (Android 2.3.4)
I don't really understand the codes in that name, so can someone please tell me if I could flash some close to this sbf if I ever need to? I've found some with just that value after "...DFP-" different. Would they be okay?
Please let me know! I wanna load up something different, but don't want to do so until I have a full sbf as well, just in case of emergency

niksy+ said:
I'm having a hard time finding a full SBF of my stock ROM...
It's 4.5.1-134_DFP-74 (Android 2.3.4)
I don't really understand the codes in that name, so can someone please tell me if I could flash some close to this sbf if I ever need to? I've found some with just that value after "...DFP-" different. Would they be okay?
Please let me know! I wanna load up something different, but don't want to do so until I have a full sbf as well, just in case of emergency
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should ask Walter79. I found similar sbf as yours in his thread /forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=966537/ at "my roms" link:
www.4shared.com/folder/YpyTOtp4/Defy-roms.html
Bests

Mate, thanks for the info, but I've already found and flashed a full .sbf The topic said it was 2.3.4, while it turned out to be 2.3.5, but I don't mind, got my phone working again after a failed flashing of cm7.2..!
Cheers

[Q] A little help needed upgrading to ICS

Hi all, I'm running a rooted A500 (Android 3.1 build number Acer_A500_4.010.13_COM_GEN2) using the 2.6.36 Honeyvillian 1.0 kernel (so I could OC) and would like to upgrade to a rooted ICS. But since I changed from the stock kernel I get a little confused trying to follow other threads on what to do. The threads seem to start out on topic but tend to drift and for somebody like me, that can make it very hard to understand. I'd like to stay away from a custom ROM, no insult to the hard working dev's intended. You guys have saved alot of my devices from ending up on the top shelf of the closet. I'd like to upgrade to a "stock" rooted ICS with proper bootloader, kernel, etc. If I decide later to try a dev's ROM then I'll always have that option, but since I've never messed with ICS...stock may do all I need. I'd like to root for OC because some of the things I do seem to run better if the device is OC'd. So, what I need are a clear set of instructions on what to do. OTA's dont work, I'm guessing thats because of the root and kernel. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

There are 2 threads with Stock rooted ICS roms in the developer section. Read each and choose the one that suits you. Also, you may need to separately update the bootloader. To do this there is a new tool in the developer section called afterota 1.02. This will help automate the process for you.

Thanks Cruise, but thats where the problem comes in. I've read over the threads you mentioned and I get lost. Because the threads are a generic install method and cant be refined to match my exact situation I dont know where to start. I dont know if I need to return to stock kernel before I do anything else or if I can flash the new stuff the way it is. Do I need to flash the bootloader first or the ROM and what about flashing recovery? Thats why I asked for a clear step by step, the Dev threads tend to be a little hard to follow for somebody with my novice knowledge.

realityrat said:
Thanks Cruise, but thats where the problem comes in. I've read over the threads you mentioned and I get lost. Because the threads are a generic install method and cant be refined to match my exact situation I dont know where to start. I dont know if I need to return to stock kernel before I do anything else or if I can flash the new stuff the way it is. Do I need to flash the bootloader first or the ROM and what about flashing recovery? Thats why I asked for a clear step by step, the Dev threads tend to be a little hard to follow for somebody with my novice knowledge.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you want to go completely stock (stock kernel, non-rooted), then you need only to install one of the Stock ICS Roms. This set's your bootloader back to a stock condition. So that's simple enough. You can do this through CWM
You said you're on Honeyomb right now. So my suggestion, is to follow these steps to upgrade your a500 to ICS.Go Here and read the steps;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
Pay attention to step 4. You have a choice. Stock Rom with Full Root, or (in small print (stock rom no root).
If you decide to install Stock Rom No Root, then skip steps 5 and 6. Just copy the file to your EXT SD Card, boot to your recovery (pwr & Vol-) and install Zip From SD. It'll be a done deal. Recovery gone, ICS Stock bootloader and rom.
I have you do steps 1-3 because I want you to write down your UID!!!!!! It's the only thing that will save you if something messes up.
Then you can decide if you want to root and install some custom stuff later.
MD

MD, can you run setCPU w/o Root? I didn't think so. Since this OP requests the ability to OC specifically I think that the steps listed would all need to be followed in Civato's post.
RR, Here are the steps I recommend, it's an opinion, and I think the best route to take as a fairly novice rooter, I've done my A500 many times and BN Nooks, but nothing else and am not a DEV, but have professionally been in IT for 20 years...so I use novice loosely here...
First, know why you're getting your CPUID:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=25429111#post25429111
Don't forget to BACKUP!!
Second, select which ROM you want on your tab, I recommend putting a couple on the MicroSD card so that you can test them. DON'T INSTALL ANYTHING, JUST PICK A COUPLE OF ROMS AND PUT THE ZIPS ON THE SD.
Don't forget to BACKUP!!
Third, follow the steps in the post that MD listed, read twice, run once...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
Don't forget to BACKUP!!
Fourth, flash one of the ROMs you chose previously while in recovery. Can't give you steps on this because they are all different unless you're just using the option in step 4 of the above post (stock w/ root)
Don't forget to BACKUP!!
Fifth, not sure if you can OC the stock w/ root or not, but if not pick a custom ROM and test several, they're all great, and see what fits your needs best. I use Flexreaper Extreme and love it, posted below, but look at ALL of them and find the one you like best, they're all GREAT! We have great DEVs here.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=22964651&postcount=1
Don't forget to BACKUP!!
Good Luck, Have fun, and did I mention to make sure you Backup before each step so that you can get back to that point if you run into issues, and make sure you write down or put in a text file on a different device your CPUID...both very important.
Good luck again!
-DB

Thanks everybody for the info but I think I'll be staying on HC for now. The linked threads are the problem I mentioned in the OP. If you look at those threads with novice eyes they are incredibly hard to follow. Not sure why I cant find simple instructions but I do appreciate everyone's help. Maybe somebody will come up with a guide for dummies. Until then I guess I'm stuck with HC. Thanks again for the info.

Mate, it can be daunting even to experienced flashers...
My advice, go to this thread - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
This has been cleaned up to make it easy to understand...
I use the manual method to go to apx mode but each to their own...
Now, follow each step. Make sure each step has been followed EXACTLY. Don't skip ahead or you will regret it, sooner than later...
If you have a doubt, go back a step.
Good idea to read through to the end first, especially the bit about checking you sdk...
Good luck....

Step 1: Install Acer drivers. DONE
Step 2: Get cpuid. DONE used afterota, got cpuid and SBK.
Step 3: Get SBK. DONE (see Step 2) I guess I could verify my cpuid and SBK
using the link in this step.
Step 4: Place ROM's on SD card. DONE
Steps 5 & 6: Enter APX mode and Installing ICS bootloader. NOT DONE
I downloaded the apx utility tool and the V7 flash package. The flash package does NOT contain an .a500apx file. The utility tool instructions say to select the .a500apx file NOT the .zip. Where do I find the correct .a500apx flash package? The last step in the Automated Flashing Tools section says to turn off the tablet and power on. I've read you're supposed to flash a ROM before turning off the tablet. Which one is correct? Can I do this with my current configuration as described in the OP or do I need to return my kernel to stock? And last...is ICS really worth the trouble? Thanks again for everybody's input. I do appreciate everybody taking the time to help out.

realityrat said:
Step 1: Install Acer drivers. DONE
Step 2: Get cpuid. DONE used afterota, got cpuid and SBK.
Step 3: Get SBK. DONE (see Step 2) I guess I could verify my cpuid and SBK
using the link in this step.
Step 4: Place ROM's on SD card. DONE
Steps 5 & 6: Enter APX mode and Installing ICS bootloader. NOT DONE
I downloaded the apx utility tool and the V7 flash package. The flash package does NOT contain an .a500apx file. The utility tool instructions say to select the .a500apx file NOT the .zip. Where do I find the correct .a500apx flash package? The last step in the Automated Flashing Tools section says to turn off the tablet and power on. I've read you're supposed to flash a ROM before turning off the tablet. Which one is correct? Can I do this with my current configuration as described in the OP or do I need to return my kernel to stock? And last...is ICS really worth the trouble? Thanks again for everybody's input. I do appreciate everybody taking the time to help out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
According to the written steps., you have to download the flash package you want to use from here;
http://a500bootloaderflash.tk/bundles/20120527/
Save then to the same directory you unzipped the tools.
Just checked and everything is in order, so looks like you missed a step
Actually, you really don't have to flash a rom before restarting. If you have a ICS rom installed, more than likely it will boot. (I hope) However, most custom roms have kernels altered to work with the unlocked bootloader. But I would try with your current ICS configuration. If you have any issues, then you can install the custom ICS rom that you saved on your SD Card.
Is it worth it? I think so. Eventually, all support for HC based roms will end. It's the nature of the beast. Most people will be on ICS, and if you have issues with HC, you may not get any recent support.
It's like having a Froyo rom, and trying to get support when most are on Gingerbread and moving to ICS.
You will get responses like "upgrade your device". I will in the near future, end all support for my HC based roms.
MD

Moscow Desire said:
According to the written steps., you have to download the flash package you want to use from here;
http://a500bootloaderflash.tk/bundles/20120527/
Save then to the same directory you unzipped the tools.
Just checked and everything is in order, so looks like you missed a step
Actually, you really don't have to flash a rom before restarting. If you have a ICS rom installed, more than likely it will boot. (I hope) However, most custom roms have kernels altered to work with the unlocked bootloader. But I would try with your current ICS configuration. If you have any issues, then you can install the custom ICS rom that you saved on your SD Card.
Is it worth it? I think so. Eventually, all support for HC based roms will end. It's the nature of the beast. Most people will be on ICS, and if you have issues with HC, you may not get any recent support.
It's like having a Froyo rom, and trying to get support when most are on Gingerbread and moving to ICS.
You will get responses like "upgrade your device". I will in the near future, end all support for my HC based roms.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response MD but I still get confused on the step to download the flash package. When I save the file to my computer it no longer has .a500apx in the file name or extension. for example, "a500-icsv6-pubrecovery0.2.a500apx" (from the index of bundles) is downloaded and saved as "a500-icsv6-pubrecovery0.2.zip" so do I extract it and select that file when asked by the utility tool? The guide for the tool says not to select the .zip but to select the .a500apx file. but I dont see one to select.
Also, you said I didnt have to worry about flashing the ROM before restarting. I am currently running HC 3.1 so will an ICS bootloader boot to a HC ROM.
Again, thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. It is really appreciated.

realityrat said:
Thanks for the response MD but I still get confused on the step to download the flash package. When I save the file to my computer it no longer has .a500apx in the file name or extension. for example, "a500-icsv6-pubrecovery0.2.a500apx" (from the index of bundles) is downloaded and saved as "a500-icsv6-pubrecovery0.2.zip" so do I extract it and select that file when asked by the utility tool? The guide for the tool says not to select the .zip but to select the .a500apx file. but I dont see one to select.
Also, you said I didnt have to worry about flashing the ROM before restarting. I am currently running HC 3.1 so will an ICS bootloader boot to a HC ROM.
Again, thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. It is really appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, the link I sent you, is an index of all apx files. It should download as an apx file (I just now checked, and it downloaded and saved as an apx.)
Not sure why they are saving as zips on your system, as none of them are in a zip format. Try doing a "file save as"
Sorry for confusion about rom. I forgot you have an HC rom. I'm running several threads right now for folks with issues. Downlaod an ICS rom to your SD card, so you can install it after you update your bootloader.
MD
EDIT: If you still have issues getting the apx files, let me know, and I'll re-package them in a real zip file and upload it for you.

Moscow Desire said:
Ok, the link I sent you, is an index of all apx files. It should download as an apx file (I just now checked, and it downloaded and saved as an apx.)
Not sure why they are saving as zips on your system, as none of them are in a zip format. Try doing a "file save as"
Sorry for confusion about rom. I forgot you have an HC rom. I'm running several threads right now for folks with issues. Downlaod an ICS rom to your SD card, so you can install it after you update your bootloader.
MD
EDIT: If you still have issues getting the apx files, let me know, and I'll re-package them in a real zip file and upload it for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks MD, trying to download the apx files doesnt work for me. Not sure why but .zip is the only option I'm given even if i use "save as". So if you could upload the files for me I'd appreciate it. Also, since I will have to disconnect the tablet from the PC after flashing the bootloader can I just power it off, disconnect from PC, reboot into recovery and then flash the new ICS ROM? I also want to be sure that coming from a stock (but rooted) HC rom with a custom kernel wont affect anything. Thanks again for all your help.

realityrat said:
Thanks MD, trying to download the apx files doesnt work for me. Not sure why but .zip is the only option I'm given even if i use "save as". So if you could upload the files for me I'd appreciate it. Also, since I will have to disconnect the tablet from the PC after flashing the bootloader can I just power it off, disconnect from PC, reboot into recovery and then flash the new ICS ROM? I also want to be sure that coming from a stock (but rooted) HC rom with a custom kernel wont affect anything. Thanks again for all your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I zipped 4 apx packages for your 500. They have the ICS Booltoader and different recoveries. Unzip them to the same folder as your installation package.
http://www.4shared.com/zip/9TE6rTH-/500Bootloader_package.html
Yes, after you finish the bootloader/recovery installation process, turn tablet off. Press and hold Vol- and PWR till you see 2 lines of text in upper left corner, then release both. This will be your recovery menu. From here, you need to follow the instructions from the Rom page where you got your new Rom for the installation. Pretty simple really.
Also, I can't advise you on which recovery to use. I haven't tried the public recovery or TWRP yet.
MD

Thanks MD. Got the files downloaded. I'm gonna read over the threads a few times and make sure I havent missed anything and I also want to research some of the ROM's available. I'll probably give it a try in the next few days. Thanks again for all your help.

**UPDATE**
After reading the threads multiple times and following the instructions carefully I am now running ICS 4.0.3 with updated bootloader!! Everything went fine with only a couple problems that I was easily able to overcome. I'd like to address those problems so if anybody else has problems, 1: when entering the sbk its important to note that the spaces between the sets of numbers ARE needed, and the 0x at the beginning of each set has to be typed with a lowercase "x". 2: I used ezterry ICS 1.031.00stock- full root with busybox, and more tweaks and a500 public recovery. Following the instructions for this ROM I used the "clean up tablet" option in recovery. This DOES NOT do a full data wipe. So first boot had my custom boot animation and all my other apps and settings still there. ICS didnt like this and kept forcing reboots. I had to do a full data wipe and all is good now. I'm on ICS rooted stock and OC'd and loving it. Thank you all for your help, without your input I dont know if I would've tried this but I'm glad I did and I really appreciate everyone taking time out of their busy schedules to help some guy in NY get some ICS love. Thank you all again!