I understand there's a tips and tricks thread that explains things in more detail but how does somebody go from just getting the phone to installing, or even understanding, things like obsidian, onyx, morphing and learning what the basic functions of such programs are.
The question I currently have is concerning flashing custom roms. In the tips & tricks thread, it talks of froyo builds (ex: bionix & frankin-twiz). What is it exactly? From what I understand, it sounds like a mini os that you install onto your device which helps in applying different functions to it, which makes custom roms possible.
I'm currently trying to get http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845530 to work on my vibrant. Can anybody help a newbie out?
VibrantUser1 said:
I understand there's a tips and tricks thread that explains things in more detail but how does somebody go from just getting the phone to installing, or even understanding, things like obsidian, onyx, morphing and learning what the basic functions of such programs are.
The question I currently have is concerning flashing custom roms. In the tips & tricks thread, it talks of froyo builds (ex: bionix & frankin-twiz). What is it exactly? From what I understand, it sounds like a mini os that you install onto your device which helps in applying different functions to it, which makes custom roms possible.
I'm currently trying to get http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845530 to work on my vibrant. Can anybody help a newbie out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the link you posted is just to a theme.
to get the theme to work you'll need to be running obsidian first.
so lets see, the easiest way to explain the different versions 2.2, 2.1 1.6, 1.5 and so forth is this...
its pretty much like going from windows 95 to 98 to 2000 to xp to vista and so forth.
our vibrants come with android 2.1, 2.2 is the next version of the os to come out (basicaly like moving from vista to windows 7)
the different roms like obsidian and Macnut and such are just names that the developers gave their roms.
what happens is a developer starts out with a version of android (in the case of Macnut and Obsidian this is 2.2)
and then they add their own modified tweaks and such to it.
and so in the end they get Obsidian which is a modified 2.2
or Macnut which is also a modified 2.2
they differ a bit though as Obsidian is based almost totaly on a leaked version of 2.2 for the US vibrant, where Macnut is based alot on the 19000 version of 2.2 for the european phones.
so when choosing a rom just choose the base you want first: 2.1 or 2.2
then look through the tweaks on a few roms and read some of the thread for that rom untill you get a feel for what makes it unique
you can also just experiment by flashing a rom for a day or so and then switching to a new one untill you find one you like.
Morphing is a way to apply a theme to a rom, this does not generaly change functionality at all, it only changes apearance.
alot of themes are either morphs (you install them using metamorph, which is an app from the market)
or they also come in zip format (which are installed by flashing from recovery)
for the theme you posted you will need to flash obsidian, and then flash the zip for the theme afterwards.
have you rooted your device yet?
thats the place to start, if you need help just pm me or repost here and I'll do what I can.
also, there is a "newbie's guide":
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=732458
nearblack said:
also, there is a "newbie's guide":
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=732458
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol true true
Before you even want to start with anything, you have to learn what 'rooting' your phone means.
Without root, you won't be able to do any of the above. You might be able to download the programs necessary, but you won't be able to use them.
For ex. Titanium Backup, ROM Manager, etc.
We use ROM Manager to install different ROMs on our phones.
Much to read, my young grasshopper.
OP, I made the Tips/Tricks sticky... would you PM be exactly what you think it lacks? I want to make sure it is applicable to everyone... I thought it was straight-forward, perhaps not.
my phone is rooted. So how do I go about flashing obsidian?
I thought roms were the same as themes? What's the difference?
And just to clarify I understand the tips and tricks thread is sort of the newbies guide but even then theres a lot of terminology that a new user wouldn't understand. I just wanted some basic information that would allow me to transition into the tips and tricks thread more easily.
I appreciate the responses so far
Have you download Rom Manager from the Market? If not, do so.
Then follow the instructions (in the sticky) to flash the recovery (it's the top of the list when you open Rom Manager).
Assuming you did that, you can reboot into recovery, make a backup of your system.. something you can always come back to (a timestamp of your system at that moment).
Download the ROM you want, put it on your internal memory (sdcard/....) NOT in a folder.
Go to Clockwork recovery, choose to insall a zip from sd card... select the name of the ROM and then click Yes to install it.
It will run it's course, then you can just reboot when done.
The first bootup will take a long time (10 minutes probably)... let it boot.... leave your phone alone for like 10 or so minutes after bootup (suggested by Team Whiskey, I never really do this).
It's that easy.
Think of a ROM as an OS... the developers take Froyo (2.2) or Eclair (2.1) and make a lot of tweaks, remove things, add things... basically anything to enhance the user experience.
THEMES are something you flash over a custom ROM... it can change the icons, graphics, notification bar, etc... they are cosmetic. You see in my signature I have Axura 2.0.3 (amazing rom and there is a newer version out) and then I have BlackFroyo (which is the theme) on top of the ROM to change the look of things. Axura has a steel looking notification bar, I much prefer black (hence the theme I chose).
The ONE thing that can be confusing... if you make a backup right now (you have stock eclair), if you flash a froyo rom... you would need to flash either the stock eclair kernel (the download link is also in the sticky) to restore your nandoid backup.... OR, you could just flash another ROM that has a kernel (most do) and you would be good to go too.
And addition to this is to make sure your phone is NOT hardware locked.
To test it:
1) Take out battery from the phone and put it back in again
2) The USB cable plugged into the computer (not in the phone yet)
3) Push and hold down both of the Volume buttons at the same time
4) Plug in USB cable and it should take you into the Download mode.
If it does you are good to go. Just read some about Odin and Stock Android
If it isn't you need to make sure to flash JI6 to your phone (also Stock) onto your phone using Stock Manager. That should fix your hardware locked. Go over the above steps to make sure that is the case.
At this point, I have rooted my device and downloaded rom manager.I believe I have backed up everything after following the directions and I do have the blackfroyo.zip on my sd card and for some reason it won't "go" (although I'm sure there's a step I am missing here, something with obsidian) so that wasn't much of a surprise.
Edit: I noticed I tried to use a theme on there and not the obsidian "OS" (idiot) when I tried the backup thing with rom manager. Where can I download the most recent version of obsidian and/or is axura an acceptable alternative?
VibrantUser1 said:
Edit: I noticed I tried to use a theme on there and not the obsidian "OS" (idiot) when I tried the backup thing with rom manager. Where can I download the most recent version of obsidian and/or is axura an acceptable alternative?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Been working on updating the wiki. Please check out http://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/index.php?title=Samsung_Galaxy_S_SGH-T959#ROMs for the different ROMs currently available.
^^ both are solid. I prefer Auxura *no touchwiz*.... download it from the development section. Place in on the internal (sdcard/ ) and flash it, reboot... I would let the phone chill for awhile then reboot again.... THEN if you want, start messing with the theme. You can see from my signature you and I are similar.
to the OP, I started a noob friendly guide in the Q&A section. Please let me know exactly what you want in there.
Here is a video guide, its kinda old but the principles are the same.
http://theunlockr.com/2010/08/02/how-to-load-a-custom-rom-on-the-samsung-captivate-vibrant/
I have been browsing around and reading on XDA since I got my G1 on release day. I have since upgraded to the MYT3G and now to the Vibrant. I have always used XDA as a source of information for rooting, etc. I don't post very often, but, I would like to throw props out to all the individuals in the thread, this is one of the few threads I have read on XDA that no one got flamed for being a "noob" and asking basic info, the information given was clear, accurate and very helpful. No one pointed to using the search function, everyone just gave good answers. AWESOME
I hope to see more threads like this in the future. Bravo and well done to all.
So I tried installing obsidian 5 and this is what happened. I first put the zip file on my sd card, I did all the necessary prerequisites (I think) using rom manager, flash recovery > vibrant yada yada yada and then pressed install rom from sd card and chose the obsidian zip file. Then the phone starts backing itself up and it finally reaches a point where it says (E: Can't open/sdcard/sd/obsidian_v5_beta.zip (no such file or directory) Installation aborted.
I then try to navigate to the file from the menu but whenever I click the sd file, it just exits, I think it says that no zip file is found or something but when I boot it up normally afterwards, the file is still there.
But the file is within the sd file . . . what am I doing wrong? I tried to fix permissions thinking it was that but no luck.
You probably need to move to the rom to the internal sd card. I thought you're able to add it to the external with the recent update but perhaps not
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
bellrb19 said:
You probably need to move to the rom to the internal sd card. I thought you're able to add it to the external with the recent update but perhaps not
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the rom IS on the sd card, unless you mean the memory on the actual phone itself
ROMs go on the root of the internal memory (no folder)... drop it in sdcard/
Also, this was mentioned in Post 8, and in team whiskeys install guide. Please pay attention to details.
oh okay, this whole time I've been thinkin the sd card folder was the root folder. Well I have finally put obsidian with success and now I'm having a difficult time implementing http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845530. I have downloaded the zip file but I don't understand what "flash it through clockwork recovery" means. It kinda sounds like I should use something in rom manager but I'm not sure, I have tried to reboot into recovery through rom manager with no luck.
I've also tried using metamorph but when i choose the blackfroyo.zip file, it says that the file is invalid and that the theme control file could be missing. Am I doing something wrong here as well?
Thanks for all your help so far, I really appreciate you taking time out of your busy life to help an individual with (what may be to you) simple problems
VibrantUser1 said:
oh okay, this whole time I've been thinkin the sd card folder was the root folder. Well I have finally put obsidian with success and now I'm having a difficult time implementing http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=845530. I have downloaded the zip file but I don't understand what "flash it through clockwork recovery" means. It kinda sounds like I should use something in rom manager but I'm not sure, I have tried to reboot into recovery through rom manager with no luck.
I've also tried using metamorph but when i choose the blackfroyo.zip file, it says that the file is invalid and that the theme control file could be missing. Am I doing something wrong here as well?
Thanks for all your help so far, I really appreciate you taking time out of your busy life to help an individual with (what may be to you) simple problems
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From where you are now. Make sure the zip file is in the internal sd card, Open rom manager go to install rom from sd card then choose the that file then click ok and CW will do its thing. Also this is only for Obsidian v4.2 and Auxura 2.05. Good luck! Also you should make a nandroid back up first just in case.
Related
So I've caved in to temptation and rooted my Magic. Now I'm looking for a suitable ROM - I've been into the Sapphire wiki and looked at the ones listed in there but they don't really explain what is on the ROMs.
What I am looking for is a ROM that contains Exchange sync, multitouch and browser with Flash, and most importantly - stability!
Also a few more questions - can I use the Android market if I have a custom ROM? I ask because in the ROM discussions I've noticed a lot talking about adding and removing software using the adb tool. Are there any other pitfalls I should be aware of, seeing as this my first time applying a new ROM.
TIA
Firstly what version of the magic do you have, 32A or 32B.
It's best to check out the rom development section and read what each rom is about there.
And yes you can still use the android market, the icon is still in all the custom roms.
Mine is the 32B - UK Vodefone.
The problem is the threads for those ROMs are sometimes more than 100 pages long with little or no descriptions about what is contained on them ... unless I am missing something
Well the ROMs will always be updated on the very first page, there's usually some kind of description as well of what is and whats not included.
As with all these things it's best to try each one out for yourself and see what you do and don't like.
As long as you use nandroid to backup your phone then you can always go back to the rom you were using before you falashed a new one.
I've tried installing Fatal1ty's 32B ROM from this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=531617
(Fatal1ty-Hero-Full-v1-4-zip)
Rename it in update.zip
copy to sd
reboot (pressing home+power)
wipe
apply update
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It said the update.zip was bad ...? Thank god for the nandroid backup (cheers for the advice on that one), I was restored and working again straight away on my old config ... but what went wrong? From doing a bit more reading, is it because the ROM isn't signed? Or should I just download the file again and try again - perhaps it corrupted somewhere along the way?
Can you provide the exact error you got?
st0kes said:
I've tried installing Fatal1ty's 32B ROM from this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=531617
(Fatal1ty-Hero-Full-v1-4-zip)
It said the update.zip was bad ...? Thank god for the nandroid backup (cheers for the advice on that one), I was restored and working again straight away on my old config ... but what went wrong? From doing a bit more reading, is it because the ROM isn't signed? Or should I just download the file again and try again - perhaps it corrupted somewhere along the way?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been caught out with something like this before - make sure the zip you are downloading is the actuall update zip! Open it and check it only has the 3 folders and boot.img in it.
The update.zip maybe in the zip you have downloaded
But on a side note - the Hero Roms aren't suitable (yet) for the 32B's as the RAM is too small - wait until they cut it down a bit.
I would recommened either Nk2 or CyanogenMod [v3.6.8] && Palm Pre theme [1.5] ported
The second being the fastest i've used (rapid infact)
Cheers - I tried downloading the rom again and this time used adb push to copy and rename it to the sd card, tried again and it worked.
I agree with what you're saying about the hero rom needing some work though. I can't use touchflo or the weather app as they are too slow. Browser is also quite a lot slower than on the stock Voda UK firmware.
I really like HTC Peep and the facebook integration into my contacts, and the HTC keyboard is a lot better.
On your advice I'll give the CyanogenMod rom a try. I would like to find one good one and stick to it rather than become addicted to flashing the latest roms every week!
Hey Guys at first sorry for my english i'm not good in it. And I'm a Android newbie I just gained a bit exerience with my Touch Diamond but it's broken now..okay but that's not the probleme....
If got a question:
After about 2 days of searching for an android 2.0 or 2.1 ROM I was a little bit confused of the diffrent news everybody was talking about. I'm root on my Hero. That was the first an last thing I made with my device.
1. Everybody is gonna talk about MoDaCo 3.0 but when I was trying to download his ROM my browser never got a request. Is the site down, where that ROM is hosted ?? Could someone give me a working link with this ROM ??
2. Is there a ROM with Android 2.0 or 2.1 outside or even not ??? And if yes are they working well ???
Would be nice if someone can help me =) thanks a lot.
Please answer soon if you know something about that =)
Greetz BassdoxXx
you can get modaco's roms at his website, www.modaco.com.
in the android development section there are some 2.0/1 roms, none of them works flawless, see for yourself if it fits your needs.
Thanks a lot for your fast answer. =)
The problem that i couldn't open the modaco page was my isp -.- i downloaded it at school
BassdoxXx said:
Thanks a lot for your fast answer. =)
The problem that i couldn't open the modaco page was my isp -.- i downloaded it at school
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What? Does ISP's block that site? Lol, would never happened in Norway
there is a few 2.0+ roms out there for the hero.
most seem to be very usable now.
best sense ui would be lox/behnaam community release on 1.6.
http://htcpedia.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1448
there are two aosp roms worth looking at.
lox aosp ( im using that on a daily basis)
http://htcpedia.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1416
jnwhiteh aosp
http://htcpedia.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1528
Hello all,
I am having very specific request when it comes to choosing a proper rom for install on to my hero.
I am blind. Stock roms are only running Android 1.5. More robust accessibility features are available starting with Android 1.6 and improving even more with Android 2.0.
So for sure I am forced to upgrade my hand set.
There are various roms, some of their authors have even disable google specific features so I know I can't install such a rom.
All the accessibility efforts are being lead by the google developers.
Most likely these accessibility tools won't be usefull to most of you but please can anyone recommend me a rom where market is working and where the following applications can be installed and used?
- eyesfree suite of applications,
- talkback - the google screen reader for android,
- tts service.
All possible help is already appreciated.
sorry for the double posting. I've accidentally posted twice and I am unable to remove the post.
Hope anybody can help me please.
pvdeejay said:
Hello all,
I am having very specific request when it comes to choosing a proper rom for install on to my hero.
I am blind. Stock roms are only running Android 1.5. More robust accessibility features are available starting with Android 1.6 and improving even more with Android 2.0.
So for sure I am forced to upgrade my hand set.
There are various roms, some of their authors have even disable google specific features so I know I can't install such a rom.
All the accessibility efforts are being lead by the google developers.
Most likely these accessibility tools won't be usefull to most of you but please can anyone recommend me a rom where market is working and where the following applications can be installed and used?
- eyesfree suite of applications,
- talkback - the google screen reader for android,
- tts service.
All possible help is already appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i am on mcr3.0, i looked in the market, i can find 8 apps for eyesfree, tts is one of these. i didn't try to install one of these, but usually it works. the search for talkback returned nothing.
not that i want to be rude, but wouldn't you be better off with another phone if you are blind? i can not imagine a touchscreen only phone would be suitable for someone who is not able to see... especially because there are great devices out there that have a full qwerty keyboard, and come with android 2.0 out of the box... imho this would be a better solution.
again, the last thing i want to be is rude, but maybe this was your mistake: you posted in the htc hero section of this forum, the hero is a touch screen only device, including a virtual keyboard on the screen. it has only six buttons and a trackball, and two rocker buttons for the volume. just to make clear we are talking about the same device
if you are still up for the hero you could try the 2.1 rom from here: http://htcpedia.com/forum/showthread.php?p=30418&posted=1#post30418
best you try for yourself, it has some drawbacks, but maybe in areas you don't need (afaik syncing with exchange does not work for example, which wouldn't be a problem for me...). otherwise it might be worth to wait another week or two, we all are waiting unpatiently for the official eclair release from htc
keep asking if you need to know more, but maybe open a new thread, since your problems are very specific, and might drown between all the newbies question about "how to root my phone".
Hello,
Thanks for your reply and a great attitude.
Yes it may sound strange I have really got HTC Hero here. I know I'll be having problems with virtual keyboard but also I am afraid accessibility features of Android phones are not really such mastered one can use it daily. For example reading emails and content from the web browser is not yet possible. I just want to try how things work and I would also like to touch the virtual keyboard. If I can memorize computer keyboard and use it daily, typewriter keyboard, nokia mobile phone keyboard, then perhaps I might be able to make some use of this too.
I am sory but here are some more questions:
I haven't yet verified with some sighted friends but... is it possible my hero is running even older version of android like Android 1.5? I've based the assumption that it's most likelly running 1.5 because majority of the devices I was reading on the net are running it.
You've been triyng to locate eyes-free applications on the market but you were unable to find talkback. Are you sure you are running newer version of Android than 1.5?
Talkback is supposed to be installed with Android 1.6 andd 2.0 by default and you should be able to find it in the accessibility menu of your phone. I am not sure how well this applies to the custom roms.
Talkback requires google's accessibility api which is reported to be available on Android 1.6 upwards.
To tell you the full story first I've asked on the eyes-free google group whether some accessibility experts from there can help me but no one knowledgeable enough has replied to my query, so I'm trying my luck here then.
Oh I am really excited since I've got really well formed informative reply.
Thanks again
Edit:
Also, I've seen somewhere in the forums here this leaked HTC rom does not support the market. Has this been rectified already? You know if market does not work then most likelly I won't be able to install these applications I am tallking about.
Also you are mentioning possibility to wait a few weeks until HTC guys role out the official update for Hero. Wouldn't that break chances I will be able to root my device later?
Edit2:
Ooops, I should read better next time. Market works on this rom. The problem is paid apps can't be installed which is hopefully not a big issue for me since most of the accessibility enabled applications are free.
Which of the downloads from Hero 21 do I need?
63.18.55.06JU_6.35.09.26) or No Wipe Download. I will need a wipe I am sure but since this link says nowipe I am ehmmm. confused.
pvdeejay,
Unfortunately there is not an 'official' update for Android 1.6, 2.0 or 2.1 as of yet. There are rumours of one coming out soon, but nothing cast-iron yet.
You are correct in that the Hero runs 1.5. It does say it under Settings | About Phone (bottom item on list)| Firmware Version (bottom on list again), although without a working screen reader, there is probably little use in knowing how to find that.
If you did want to upgrade, I'm sure plenty of people could help find a ROM that would suit. The only issue with that is that you would need a rooted phone with a custom recovery image installed. Unfortunately, a lot of the procedures would not be easy for you, as the software that you might need to use to go through the procedure is probably not designed that well for accessibility tools. I don't know what kind of software you are using, but some of the instructions for making goldcards are quite complex, and involve editing some numbers in a 'table' which could be quite difficult for you, I would imagine.
I'm sure a friend would be able to help you out with making a goldcard/rooting if you did want to install a custom ROM (you'll probably be waiting a while otherwise ). They could even root their phone while doing yours (just share the goldcard between the devices).
Nonetheless, there is probably a ROM out there with little removed from it. I'll have a look just now, but you would need to have your phone rooted to do anything just now.
When it comes to rooting and installing custom recovery image. Do you thing the following instructions might work for me?
These instructions don't require a gold card:
- How to Root HTC Hero and Install Amon Ra Recovery Image
- How to install a custom rom on a HTC Hero
Hello,
Here are some numbers I've asked my friend to read from system -> about screen. The phone interface is in czech so I am unable to get some names translated to english, but I believe some of the geeks will understand these identifiers and might be able to help me what is best:
Code:
firmware: 1,5
63.118.55.O6U|6.35.04.25
2.6.27-a5504199
Build number: 1.76.405.6 146733 CL# 47214 release-keys
Software version: 1.0.0.A6288
pvdeejay,
to sum it up:
the hero definitly runs on android 1.5. there are no roms for older android versions, and a few homebrewn for newer versions, as we said already.
i searched for talkbalk on my 1.5 rom, so it is obvious that i couldn't find it...
about rooting of newer roms: it is just a matter of time, sooner or later there will be always methods of rooting a rom. what i meant by waiting is: wait until the official update is out, then wait a few more hours until the first rooted and customized rom is out
@pvdeejay,
I would have to agree with kendong2 that waiting for the official ROM is probably the best idea for you at the moment. There are no guarantees that an unofficial ROM would help, and it would be another user interface to try and learn.
@kendon,
I noticed he has the original, easily rooted version of the hero. IIRC, that is what I had on my G2 (and had the security unlocked bootloader out the box). If that's the case, would pvdeejay be able to 'fastboot boot' a full system img file for the purposes of testing it out to see if it meets the requirements.
The reason I ask is that I've only ever fastbooted my AmonRA recovery (I didn't flash it, because I never felt any need to). I'm guessing you could fastboot a full img, but I'm not sure about the practical issues of where it would be stored in memory...
Sorry guys originally I believed I am slowly getting into the matter and am begining to understand how flashing / rooting / upgrading home brew firmwares works on these phones.
After these 2 posts I feel like a total noob again.
Now again some very concrete questions:
What about these 2 guides I've posted links to?
Can I somehow got [Recovery] [13-Dec-2009] RA-hero-v1.5.2 installed so I will be able to do nandroid backup and then possibly flash some new roms?
Can I really brick my phone by trying to install amon ra?
Originally I thought the process works as follows:
1) get the custom recovery image installed (that's the amon ra in this case),
2) do a nandroid backup which will dump everything usefull on to the memory card,
3) backup and reformat the card,
4) download a rom, rename it to update.zip, put it onto the root folder of the cart, reboot the hero in recovery mode, do the wipe of the data partition, and run update,
5) reboot again and believe it's good.
Also some very significant bit is the thing you are all calling the radio. I am afraid I've not identified this bit thus it's missing in this summary.
Which files will I need to download if I decide to try Android 2.1 community edition 1.8? Are these files I've copied links to a few posts earlier both needed?
Can you please check this list, identify the things I am missing, and make suggestions and corrections why this may not work on my device based off of those number I tried to put down here?
Even if I won't be able to do this right now I'd be happy to get corrections as I can learn something new.
Of course I won't be doing all this on my own. I will ask my bro to read all the stuff to me and we'll do it according to your advices.
To give some bits about me and my computer skills, I believe I am a Windows power user, Basically I do also understand unix, I know what's bash how the files are arranged in a file system, can use command-line tools, telnet, ssh. I am working as a network administrator here so some background is there really.
Hi pvdeejay,
Answers to your questions here.
You can actually use fastboot to 'temporarily' load up the AmonRA recovery image into memory and run it from there. I do that on my phone, for the simple reason that I can't be bothered ) ) to flash the recovery. Once you get AmonRA running, the first thing you should do is make a Nandroid backup. It will be saved to your SD card, so then get the nandroid directory of your card and save it to your PC (just in case!)
So, here's how you'd go about this.
(Make sure you have the android sdk installed, and that adb and fastboot commands are working). USB cable should be plugged in throughout.
Before you begin, put the ROM you want (ie. Android 2.1 community edition 1.8) into the root of the microSD card (a .zip file).
Code:
adb devices
Should list your phone's serial number
Now turn off the phone, and turn it on with the back key held down (the one at the very bottom right of the device).
You should enter fastboot mode. Now type
Code:
fastboot devices
and you should see the serial number again.
Now type
Code:
fastboot boot AmonRA.img
where AmonRA.img is a file in your present working directory that is the filename of the latest custom recovery image. This does NOT flash your phone, it merely runs the image (pretty much as close as you get to risk free, other than sitting there with a tinfoil hat on )
See screenshot of the recovery image here:
http://www.sizzledcore.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/RA-hero-recovery-image-500x375.jpg
Make the Nandroid backup by choosing 'Nandroid Vx.x Backup' and waiting a while.
If your ROM needs a wipe first (most new ones do), select Wipe data/factory reset. You will lose all your user data on the device (but you've got a nandroid backup just in case)
You're now good to go. So choose "Apply sdcard:choose zip"
Now select the custom ROM zip file you downloaded. It doesn't even need to be called update.zip! Choose it from the list and push trackball.
Wait for the update.zip to go in. Do NOT turn off the device or pull the battery. First boot can take a very long time (upto 30 minutes). Just keep it plugged in via USB and wait...
As for radios, see http://android.modaco.com/content/h...-24-11-hero-roms-radios-in-update-zip-format/ and look at the section titled radios. The latest one is in bold. It is a .zip file as well, that you use these exact same instructions for to install (don't do the wipe or anything like that. Just install the .zip file)
anon2122 said:
@kendon,
I noticed he has the original, easily rooted version of the hero. IIRC, that is what I had on my G2 (and had the security unlocked bootloader out the box). If that's the case, would pvdeejay be able to 'fastboot boot' a full system img file for the purposes of testing it out to see if it meets the requirements.
The reason I ask is that I've only ever fastbooted my AmonRA recovery (I didn't flash it, because I never felt any need to). I'm guessing you could fastboot a full img, but I'm not sure about the practical issues of where it would be stored in memory...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this is correct so far, i did the same, except i installed the recovery. i play a lot with my phone, the installed recovery image with the nandroid backup is the best i have ever seen for a phone...
@pvdeejay
you always write so much...
i try to answer everything:
the two guides you posted are good for your situation. i never tried flashrec, but from what i read it is safe to use. i installed my recovery image through fastboot, the guide is here: http://android.modaco.com/content/h...ng-the-patched-recovery-image-on-your-device/
i have no idea how this works out for you, but my honest suggestion would be that you have someone seeing assisting you, you CAN brick your phone, though it is not likely if you follow the instructions precisely. the process is not very time consuming at all, so you don't need to bother anyone for days of their time.
edit: and now i read your post to the end and saw that your brother will be helping you, so you are on the right track
once you have the recovery installed you can make nandroid backups, and i would suggest that you do this first thing after installing the recovery, better make a backup too much than one too less...
the 5 steps you described are correct, except there is no need to rename the zipfile anymore, you can select any .zip from your sdcard.
the radio part is the number that begins with 63.18.55.06, then comes two letters and then more numbers. as by now the version can be identified by the letters, with JU being the up-to-date one. in general you can say the newer the better, but you have to try for yourself. start with the newest one, if you have problems go back.
thanks this seems to be pretty doable plus I will easily be able to restore the current data backed using nandroid backup.
Which android SDK do I need the latest one?
The commands I need to type are supposed to be typed on the PC or on the phone? I assume on the PC but I just would like to ensure.
Hero21 1.8 community edition has a recommended radio listed in the first post. Is it necessary to install that one as well? What should I install first the actual rom or the radio? Do I need installing radio at all? Should i do the same with radio i.e. renaming it to update.zip and using amonra to install it?
Also will I be able to use this method even if I install another rom (running amonra without actually flashing it)?
Edit:
sorry guys did not realize renaming to update.zip is no longer needed.
Edit2:
is there an easy way on how to access sd card from windows? I can't just remove the card from phone and insert it into my laptop because I don't have the proper adapter. Previously my boss was using the hero and perhaps it would be nice to backup the sd card first.
Edit3:
uhmmm, installing android sdk is perhaps not as simple as it sounds.
I have just seen this article.
I am on a limited gprs internet connection, can you please suggest sdk features I won't need to save some download bandwith?
- you need only the adb binary (thats adb.exe for windows) from the sdk, the rest is not needed for this.
- install the radio from the 2.1community-rom-thread, it is the newest. install the radio first. DO NOT PULL THE BATTERY until the phone has rebooted completely. if you pull the battery during radio upgrade your phone will be dead. it takes a few minutes, do not panic!
- you can copy the contents of the sdcard via the usb-cable, plug it into your pc and pull down the notification bar...
Do I need to run SDK Setup.exe when I have downloaded android sdk for windows?
Or can I simply run that binary from the command-line without the installation?
Do I need any USB drivers so my phone can be recognized?
Hi Folks.
Just been issued heros at work and wish to update the radio rom...How is this accomplished??
regards
Lohtse
Firstly it needs to have a recovery image installed I recommend Amon-Ra v 1.6.2.
Secondly you need to find the radio rom you wish to flash and put it onto the root of you phones sd card.
Thirdly enter the recovery image you have installed by holding power and home button from the phone being off.
Then select the radio.zip to flash.
Everything I have said here can easily be found how to do via searching this forum or its wiki.
also www.theunlockr.com will help with installing the recovery image.
lohtse said:
Hi Folks.
Just been issued heros at work and wish to update the radio rom...How is this accomplished??
regards
Lohtse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First you will need to install the custom recovery console if you haven't done so already.
Then download your updated radio, put it on your SD, load into the recovery, then apply update. DONE!
If that is too brief,... let me know,...
EDIT... Ooops,... too late.
way to complicated...
Too much to do and can screw up..... At least with winmo and symbian was a few clicks...
hmmmmm think will ditch android.....
really? its not complicated at all when you know what your doing. In fact I can say its a damn sight easier (and safer) than modifying blackberry roms and from what I hear also Windows Mobile.
Lennyuk said:
really? its not complicated at all when you know what your doing. In fact I can say its a damn sight easier (and safer) than modifying blackberry roms and from what I hear also Windows Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I came from wimo to android, and as it is said, it's quite hard to catch the thing at the beginning, but after everything seems easier than in wimo !! and more reliable... you have almost no chance to brick your hero after you installed the recovery boot.
radio : boot in recovery then select the good option.
rom : nandroid backup / install whatever rom you want / if you don't like it go for nandroid restore ( all you need is two Sd card.. the good one and the one for the "tests" ).... etc....
But at the beginning i was totally out but with a little time.. reading some posts (here and on the web) ... one day everything was more clear !
Ciao
Fred
lohtse said:
way to complicated...
Too much to do and can screw up..... At least with winmo and symbian was a few clicks...
hmmmmm think will ditch android.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its not hard at all. You can have the recovery installed and the radio updated in 5 minutes.
For step by step instructions follow the "Installing a recovery image" section in BTDAG's guide linked in my signature.
Then further down the same post, in the second yellow box there are instructions on "Updating your Radio".
Guys, the OP said he was issued the Hero at work, then two hours later said he was going to ditch Android... so what then, he's quitting his job? Troll alert. Don't feed the troll.
As to troll comment(yes offence has been caused)....hmmmmm.... Am going back to the trusty Kaiser... WE DON'T HAVE TO USE THE HERO.... We live in free(ish) world.. And the Phones are issued as an update to our old duty phones... Also I'm not the only one who uses them that feels the same.
Now to updating being easy. Gulp I must be eeer dum!!! Du hu Du HU must be the TROLL in me!
I have tried to install recovery image thing and well just cant get it to work... And now I find I have to root the hero too so things will install to sd card!!!! WTF this should all be standard like winmo and symbian etc...
I have been using smart phones since the Ericsson r380 and so far Android has failed to impress to the degree I am beginning to hate it....
Am far to used to having simply andfull access to everything..
Android is a HUGE learning curve that I suspect I may not have the patience for..
regards The TROLL sorry I mean Lohtse
Now I have finally managed to get recovery image on and updated the radio...Being called a troll did it !!!!!!.....LOL
My final questions are this how do I root so I can install to sd card(just point me in the right direction) And do I have to unlock Phone to any network to have custom roms on..
regards
TROLL
lohtse said:
Now I have finally managed to get recovery image on and updated the radio...Being called a troll did it !!!!!!.....LOL
My final questions are this how do I root so I can install to sd card(just point me in the right direction) And do I have to unlock Phone to any network to have custom roms on..
regards
TROLL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wahey!!!! Good job man.
Ok,... So now you have the recovery image all you need to do is pick a custom ROM. Personally, I highly recommend MCR3.2 (link in signature at botom). It is an Android 1.5 ROM but is stable and fast, what more could you want for a work phone.This ROM is rooted and has apps2SD enabled. Once you have installed the ROM you will need to remember to create an ext2 partition on the SD card (easily done through the recovery). Then you are set to go!!!!
lohtse said:
Now I have finally managed to get recovery image on and updated the radio...Being called a troll did it !!!!!!.....LOL TROLL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome And what ddotpatel said. MCR is fast & clean. By installing a custom recovery you've already done the only tricky bit.
Yep installed 3.2 from modocca. seems nice but how do you know if the apps are installing to sdcard???? I'm not sure they are lol..
lohtse said:
Yep installed 3.2 from modocca. seems nice but how do you know if the apps are installing to sdcard???? I'm not sure they are lol..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to create an ext2 partition on your SD card through the recovery again. I cant remember the exact wording but something like "create ext2 + fat" or something along those lines.
As far as I know, once that has been done all apps will install to SD.
Someone with more knowhow than me correct me if I am wrong?... CAULI?,... LENNY?
Can someone who knows please answer this question:
Are you 100% sure that flashing the Radio ROM does not affect the phone RF Calibration ?
Thanks!
ddotpatel said:
You need to create an ext2 partition on your SD card through the recovery again. I cant remember the exact wording but something like "create ext2 + fat" or something along those lines.
As far as I know, once that has been done all apps will install to SD.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, certainly as far as MCR is concerned. On the first reboot it will move all files from /data/app to /system/sd/app (& similarly for app-private) Nb /sysytem/sd is the mount point for the ext2 partition. All it does is move the files over & then replaces the /data/app (& app-private) directory with a symlink to the new location. That way future installs, updates etc all automatically go to the new location.
You can always check yourself with a terminal emulator & the command ls -l, or using a file manager like Root Explorer, if you're curious. Some people think it's not working because they see available space in internal flash drop as apps are installed, but that's because app data & the dalvik cache remain on internal flash, principally aiui for reasons of access speed. The saving you make just from shifting the apks to sd is more than enough for most people it seems.
cauli said:
Yup, certainly as far as MCR is concerned. On the first reboot it will move all files from /data/app to /system/sd/app (& similarly for app-private) Nb /sysytem/sd is the mount point for the ext2 partition.
All it does is move the files over & then replaces the /data/app (& app-private) directory with a symlink to the new location. That way future installs, updates etc all automatically go to the new location.
You can always check yourself with a terminal emulator & the command ls -l, or using a file manager like Root Explorer.
Some people think it's not working because they see available space in internal flash drop as apps are installed, but that's because app data & the dalvik cache remain on internal flash, principally aiui for reasons of access speed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hmmmm I certainly noticed a drop in available memory on the phone to the degree of only having 54 megs free...
SebHTCHero said:
Are you 100% sure that flashing the Radio ROM does not affect the phone RF Calibration ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what is rf calibration?
What is radio rom used for by phone?
kendong2 said:
what is rf calibration?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A set of tables usually stored in NVRAM that takes into account the slight differences in the components used to build your phone. Every single phone is calibrated during manufacturing.
If the calibration is erased, it will look like it works but you can have all sort of problems from poor battery life to random drop from the network or poor sensibility (not to mention the higher than expected radio levels you could be emitting right next to your brain )
Okay I have a really dumb question probably but I have a completely "stock" HTC Tilt 2 for AT&T. I have only downloaded the .NET 3.5, SciLor's GrooveMobile, and nothing else but a couple of themes from this website. I have heard about ROM flashing. I am a 16 year old kid who needed a new phone and wanted to be different from everyone and got the Tilt 2. I hate the freezing of my phone after Opera Internet usage. I hate the stupid touchflo 3D. Great idea and all but just annoying. I want a new layout overall though. I looked at the Leo ROM and I like that one. I just need an experts advice. I want to do this and be able to download most of the apps from my phone. I have internet access but it is limited due to the family. I like the Standard Reference Leo ROM interface. I want to know if I should do it......I mean will it screw me over huge or will it be a huge advantage? If someone could answer this cry for help ASAP it would be awesome!
thanks
Ok overall I just want to know if flashing the ROM of my Tilt 2 to a Leo ROM, is a good idea. Just that nothing else unless you can give me some instruction. That would be awesome but just a reply to the main question would be fine. Thank you.
Link the ROM you are talking about.
The stock Tilt2 ROM sucks big time. Almost any ROM on here will be faster, more stable, and more functional. If you don't like TouchFlo3D, just turn it off.
forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=591784
You have to add the http. Thats the link. You might have to copy and paste because I cannot due to the restriction by the site. I guess I have not been verified?
That ROM is for a different phone, the HTC HD2. You need to flash a ROM for the Rhodium/Touch Pro 2/Tilt2, or it won't work right (or might even brick your phone).
The ROMs you want are here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=490
And the Energy ROM (similar to the one you linked, but for the right phone) is here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=562773
Okay thanks. Yeah I was on my phone and was reading this guideline that instructed how to flash the tilt 2 into the "cadillac of tilts" I dont know if this guy is legit... But if its not a big deal, what do you think I should do? And can I still change the themes or wallpapers or will I have to reflash again? Also do you know how long it takes to flash a phone?
tscyadi4 said:
Okay thanks. Yeah I was on my phone and was reading this guideline that instructed how to flash the tilt 2 into the "cadillac of tilts" I dont know if this guy is legit... But if its not a big deal, what do you think I should do? And can I still change the themes or wallpapers or will I have to reflash again? Also do you know how long it takes to flash a phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what a "cadilac of tilts" is tbh but follow this guide and you will be fine.
HOW TO FLASH A GSM ROM
Im not sure either his link is
tilt2.blownfuze.org
Energy ROM is what I use. Its faster, smoother, more stable than the (terrible) stock ATT ROM. Its not as lightweight (heavier on program memory usage) than some others. But I personally like the aesthetics and functionality.
I'm not sure if the reference version is right for you, if you don't like TouchFLO3D. The Energy reference version includes Sense 2.5, which is the updated version fo the TF3D interface. Although, everything runs faster and smoother on the Energy ROM versus stock, so you might find Sense more enjoyable without all the lag of the ATT ROM.
You might check out the Titanium version if you don't want TF3D/Sense.
Flashing a custom ROM is relatively easy. But be sure to read as much as you can before you start. These are a must read:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=550131
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=550540
And Task29 is optional, but highly recommended:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=649191
If you do the reading, and follow the instructions carefully, you will be fine. HardSPL only takes a couple minutes, and flashing the ROM itself takes a few minutes. It takes some time (few minutes) for your phone to reboot after you flash. Add in time to get the phone configured the way you like, reload the apps, etc., then the entire process may take you an hour or so. Maybe a bit more the first time, since you want to make sure you're doing it all correctly.
But trust me, its worth the time and effort.
tscyadi4 said:
And can I still change the themes or wallpapers or will I have to reflash again?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can change the wallpaper all you want. In fact its easier on the Energy ROM than stock (and more options). The ROM also comes with a variety of themes to choose from. Or you can change the theme with some of the cabs available on this website.
Keep in mind that flashing a custom ROM will delete all your data. So you will need to synch, backup your contacts, etc. (several different options for this). You are basically starting from scratch, except better.
One thing I have notice, the latest version of the Energy ROM (Sept. 29) seems to have more bugs than usual, due to his updating Cookies Home Tab from 1.5 to the 2.0 beta. Nothing that seems like a real dealbreaker, but some annoying things (like the album art on the music player showing the previous - not currrent - song played).
You may/may not want to hold off a bit to see if these kinks get worked out. NRG updates often (usually every 5-7 days). So some of these things might be fixed soon. In fact, it looks like new ROMs will be uploaded soon, maybe today. Read the last few pages of the Energy ROM thread for more details.
That said, even with a few bugs, the Energy ROM would still be a big improvement over the stock ROM. It fixes so many things, so much faster, and more functinal, that its still a net improvement by a long shot.
Yeah well thats alot of the information I was looking for so thank you! My next question is do I need to remove the memory card and sim card when I do this? also is this safe for my computer?
As you'll see in the n00b instructions, its advised to remove both the SIM and the SD card to avoid them from becoming formatted or otherwise damaged during the process.
And yes, its completely safe for your desktop computer.
ok so i did the hard spl and it worked i think it was just like a hard reset without deleting apps and messages but when i went to download the new rom to my computer hotfile was annoying and it came up as an unknown file type and i couldnt find it after i downloaded it could someone walk me through or help me! plllllleeeeeeeeeeeez
No, HardSPL is nothing like a hard reset. SPL only allows "official" ROMs released by your cell carrier to be flashed. HardSPL unlocks the SPL so you can flash any ROM.
What browser are you using to download the files? Depending on your browser, and how its defaulted, the files should be at My Documents\Downloads, or can be somewhere else altogether.
The files are zipped using a compression called 7zip, so you need to unpack them using the 7zip program. For some reason, the latest Energy files seem to only be unpackable with the latest 7zip version (I think the 9.17 beta, see link below), which has not been the case in the past. I've been able to unpack lots of previous builds using more common unzip programs like Winzip or WinRAR (which may or may not already be on your computer). I haven't personally downloaded or flashed the latest Energy ROM, but if you search the Energy ROM, there is a good amount of discussion on this issue.
http://www.7-zip.org/
ok so what your saying is i judt have to download the 7 zipbfolder and then it will work?
Yes, download the 7zip application (get the 9.17 beta .exe) and install it. Then it should unpack the archive automatically when you click on the .7z file.
Ok I downloaded the 7zip and tried to download the standard reference rom and it still said it was unknown. I installed 7zip. Do I need to save the rom to a certain folder or what?
Were you sure to get the latest 7zip version, the 9.17 beta?
Is the 7zip program giving you the error message, or Windows? If its just Windows telling you the file type is unknown, then right mouse click on the ROM file, and select "Open With", scroll down to "Choose Program" (if 7zip is not already given as an option) and choose 7zip.
You can also right click on the file, choose "Properties", under where it says "Opens with", click the "Change" button, and choose 7zip from there.
Hey guys - I'm new to this forum, but I figure if anyone can help me, someone here can.
So, my bro got ahold of my phone and rooted it and installed Axura 2.2.5.9.
Since there is a newer version, I would like to throw it on and work out a few glitches and get whatever tweaks were put there.
So, how do I go about updating this thing? If anyone has the time or the patience, I would love to hear this in layman's terms.
Like:
Step 1 - download 'this file'
Step 2 - Plug phone in and drag/drop to 'folder x' on 'internal/external sd'
Etc. I came from an iPhone and all the lingo is different - like jailbreaking vs rooting. And saying "flash" instead of "load" or ROM instead of OS.
I would just like to update, but I'd liek to not be confused by all the different slang.
Thanks, anyone, for putting your 2 cents in to help a brother out.
this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=849028
will answer all your questions
After you read the noob guide, feel free to PM me if you need clarification... I would also be curious to know if you think it could be improved. I wrote it trying to cater to the noob.
Just install download the rom you want on the sd (internal memory, dont save it in any folder) then boot into recovery (you should be able to do so by simply holding the power button for a second) now choose install zip from sd or sth like that and pick the rom file. The end.
Sent from my JPJPM V2 powered SGH-T959 using XDA App
full instructions easily available on the d4a site
click the link in my sig go down to vibrant section > roms> read the op
Its exactly like flashing any other rom, only difference being that you have an axuraXXXX.zip instead of ANYOTHERROM.zip
Cheers.
Just remember to backup your apps, since the new rom will wipe your phone.
To be safe, you may want to make a nandroid backup in CWR... always nice to have something to fall back on.
The guide has more detail like these steps, but yes, everyone is right in saying just download it and flash it. I think it's important to backup everything.
The Noob Guide is really well written. My problem now is I cant find the file to download!
A Rom you mean? You can find those in the development forum along with other tools you may need to run/flash it.
Here's a link just in case you don't know where that is
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=711
Yes, the ROM. I went to the daily bible thread and tried to click "Download" on the Axura subsection. It gave me an "Error 404 - file not found".
Just open one of the threads in the form link I just gave you and look for the ROM you wanted, then check the first post there for the download link.
I did that. That's when I get the Error 404.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=949372
They must have pulled that rom of the server or the host did that. Just go for another one, plenty of options out there and quite frankly Axura isn't exactly the most sought after roms around here.
Axura is truly in need of a 2.2.1 update, but seeing as though Master is happy with his Nexus, it will never be getting one. And quite frankly, Eugene's gingerclone roms, trigger, or any of the i9000 ports run much smoother to me.
Ding forget he has also gotten a thunderbolt, I thought about picking up dev on axura but I have no where near enough time to mess with it, but I agree axura is in dire need of an update to 2.2.1
This post Trigger'd by my Vibrant
THANKS GUYS
I just got Trigger and so far so good.
My only issue is that I couldnt figure out how to restore my apps in Ti. Looked like there were 0 files backed up. Oh well. One at a time.