Database Users

[Q] [Solved] How to update to the latest official firmware?

Hi,
Automatic update does not seem to work (says no updates found) so I've downloaded the latest official 3.1 image from Asus' FTP server.
However I can't manage to install it.
Put the WW_epad-user-8.4.4.5.zip to the Device Storage root through windows.
Then I reboot the eee Pad (got so frustrated that i confused it with an iPad :S) with Volume Down + Power pressed. Then pressing up.
Then I get a progressbar for around a second before a warning triangle shows up.
Any suggestions?

vidarw said:
Hi,
Automatic update does not seem to work (says no updates found) so I've downloaded the latest official 3.1 image from Asus' FTP server.
However I can't manage to install it.
Put the WW_epad-user-8.4.4.5.zip to the Device Storage root through windows.
Then I reboot the iPad with Volume Down + Power pressed. Then pressing up.
Then I get a progressbar for around a second before a warning triangle shows up.
Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its not an Ipad for starters... >,< ''' ok so you get the file you downloaded and go deeper into it until you find the other zip. Then you just put it on your SD card and pop the SD card in your TF. a little triangle with ! should pop up on notification bar. click it and it should tell you to install update. Dont reboot it until it tells you too.

Hi,
Thanks for the info. I put the second zip on the root of the micro sd card (fat32).
However, when I insert the card the TF just says "preparing external storage" and then nothing happens.
Current build is HRI66.WW_epad-8.2.3.9-20110423

vidarw said:
Hi,
Automatic update does not seem to work (says no updates found) so I've downloaded the latest official 3.1 image from Asus' FTP server.
However I can't manage to install it.
Put the WW_epad-user-8.4.4.5.zip to the Device Storage root through windows.
Then I reboot the eee Pad (got so frustrated that i confused it with an iPad :S) with Volume Down + Power pressed. Then pressing up.
Then I get a progressbar for around a second before a warning triangle shows up.
Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Power on and voloume down button is for CWM installs so you have made it a bit confusing as to how you are trying to flash the update.
If you have downloaded an official update then you flash it by unzipping the file so that you have a folder named asus in the root of your storage card which contains all the update. You must have this folder or it wont recognise the update but make absolutely sure its the correct update for your model or you may end up with a brick.
Restart the tablet with the storage card plugged in and you should get a notification of an udpate.
I recieved my tablet with the docking keyboard on thursday, rooted, flashed CWM and updated to Honeycomb 3.1 within an hour.
Mark.

Hi, I'm in the same situation as you were : I'm not given the 3.1 update, and i can't find it on ftp.asus.com : there is 8.2.2.6 8.2.3.9 and 8.2.3.13, but no 8.4.4.5, where did you find yours ?
Has it been removed ???

mskip said:
Power on and voloume down button is for CWM installs so you have made it a bit confusing as to how you are trying to flash the update.
If you have downloaded an official update then you flash it by unzipping the file so that you have a folder named asus in the root of your storage card which contains all the update. You must have this folder or it wont recognise the update but make absolutely sure its the correct update for your model or you may end up with a brick.
Restart the tablet with the storage card plugged in and you should get a notification of an udpate.
I recieved my tablet with the docking keyboard on thursday, rooted, flashed CWM and updated to Honeycomb 3.1 within an hour.
Mark.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for clarifying the situation. The ASUS folder was where I went wrong. I just put the extracted zip directly on the root.
MrTweety: The 8445 files are found here as described in another thread: ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS/EeePAD/TF101/

MrTweety said:
Hi, I'm in the same situation as you were : I'm not given the 3.1 update, and i can't find it on ftp.asus.com : there is 8.2.2.6 8.2.3.9 and 8.2.3.13, but no 8.4.4.5, where did you find yours ?
Has it been removed ???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to remember that there are different regional versions i.e. us, ww, tw. You can check your version by going to settings and then about. I believe you would need the ww version and I wouldnt recommend flashing a different regional update as it may affect your wifi signal.
If you want ww 3.1 version then you can follow the tutorial in the development section which has a patched stock 3.1 version that works very well.
If you want a stock update then you will have to wait until you get a notification on your
transformer that an update is available.
Mark.

Thanks Mskip. (one more for your counter)
In fact I knew abour regions, I har a ww 2.4.4.5 tablet and i downgraded it into ww2.3.3.13 (so no glitch there, and no problem with wifi channels), but since then (2 days) no notification.
Maybe it's been removed, maybe the server for ww users is down....
Anyway, I prefer a non patched rom for the time being, so i'm downloading the ww 8.4.4.5 that's sill present on the taiwanese asus ftp (alongside with other versions).
But I really wonder why the hell i'm not notified or i can't get the ota update.

The automatic update did not work for me either.
Could be some kind of issue with Asus update services and 3.0.1 devices.
Especially if they removed the update from the global FTP.

A500 Manually update from 3.1 to 3.2

OK i know that someone has posted an extensive post on update; however, in reading this post i have gotten very confused.
I am a windows tech and am use to seeing WinXP to Vista update click here.
Can some please give the steps I need to follow so that i can update to the latest version of Honeycomb for this Tablet.
I have ver: Acer_A500_4.010.13_COM_GEN2 so i update to_______________
then from that to the latest____________
I need the hand holding...thanks

lded21 said:
OK i know that someone has posted an extensive post on update; however, in reading this post i have gotten very confused.
I am a windows tech and am use to seeing WinXP to Vista update click here.
Can some please give the steps I need to follow so that i can update to the latest version of Honeycomb for this Tablet.
I have ver: Acer_A500_4.010.11_COM_GEN2 so i update to Acer_A500_0.000.00_4.010.13_COM_GEN2
then from that to the latest Acer_A500_7.006.01_COM_GEN2
I need the hand holding...thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's the info you need:
Acer_A500_7.006.01_COM_GEN2

3.2 update continue
Ok so i unzip and put on external SD card - do the power-Volup button and it will update - will this totally undo my system - or will it simply update the tablet without any other changes.....never did manual update - but waiting for the lottery update of Acer is irritating.
Maybe after a bit i won't be so skittish but being Windows person you can understand.

The update will only update your system, you will lose root if you have it, and your files, configurations and apps remains intact.
Yes, you have to put the update.zip file in your external_sd and use Power Vol- to flash it.

lded21 said:
Ok so i unzip and put on external SD card - do the power-Volup button and it will update - will this totally undo my system - or will it simply update the tablet without any other changes.....never did manual update - but waiting for the lottery update of Acer is irritating.
Maybe after a bit i won't be so skittish but being Windows person you can understand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will not wipe out your data, it will unroot you device. Everything else should (should) be intact. Always backup your data first anyway.

Many Thanks
Thanks again for your help - I hope i get this Linux stuff fast..........

I have the .13 GEN2 in the US. Tried using the GEN2 update to 3.2 by placing the update.zip on my sdcard and updating with stock recovery. I get the android symbol with gears turning for a couple seconds, then I get the triangle/exclamation. I am completely stock. Any idea what could be wrong?

adamjt said:
I have the .13 GEN2 in the US. Tried using the GEN2 update to 3.2 by placing the update.zip on my sdcard and updating with stock recovery. I get the android symbol with gears turning for a couple seconds, then I get the triangle/exclamation. I am completely stock. Any idea what could be wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=18004585&postcount=32

Acer Iconia A500 Not Updating From 3.0.1 via System Update - New Zealand

Okay guys. I've searched and searched and found nothing, almost found something but wasn't definitive enough, and wasn't going to risk bricking my device.
Acer Iconia A500 Wifi Version
Current OS Version: HC 3.0.1
FLEX Version: 04_COM_GEN1
Kernel Version: 2.6.36.3
Build Number: ACER_A500_1.145.04_COM_GEN1
Now, notice I only bought this end of December-ish 2011 but this device has been out for quite some time. I don't know what is going on with Acer right now but this thing will not update through the system update no matter how many times I click on it. (tap on it you know what I mean)
Now, I wanted to do it manually, since I was able to do so on my Nexus S with ICS. But there are so many version out there and most of those forums say that if you don't use the correct region you'll brick your device.
Also, I searched my build number and only 1 person on 1 forum here on XDA Devs had the same build number and even then was only saying it to share. I cannot find anything regarding this build number, or what build to use to upgrade to 3.2.1, or all the way up to even if it takes multiple updates.
I know that Acer A500s are supposed to be getting ICS 4.0 sometime this month in Jan, but I'd like to be able to be updated to 3.2 at least while I'm here.
NOTE: I DO NOT WANT TO ROOT ANYTHING (That is not what she said)
Can someone take a look at my build number and current versions and what not, and please point me in a direction to get this thing upgrade to 3.2?
Thanks. A lot. In advanced. And stuff.
-B00mer

I'm actually facing the same problem too. Same build number, and no updates found. I checked Acer's website and say a document for updating to 3.2. The document mentions certain build numbers from different countries that are eligible for an update, and ours is not in the list. I wonder what Acer is up to?

Does it download the update?

mrtoken said:
Does it download the update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It won't even see any of the updates. It just keeps saying "No Update: Your device is up to date."

Did a bit of googling for you
Someone had the same problem until they used the acer registration widget and waited a couple of days.
will keep looking

mrtoken said:
Did a bit of googling for you
Someone had the same problem until they used the acer registration widget and waited a couple of days.
will keep looking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey mate,
Thanks for doing that. However I've used that widget and registered when I got it and its been 2 weeks now. I guess I wasn't able to find that on google mostly because I've been looking under the assumption that because this is an android OS there would be a more technical way of updating the device. Lol.
Not giving up though.

b00mtastik said:
Hey mate,
Thanks for doing that. However I've used that widget and registered when I got it and its been 2 weeks now. I guess I wasn't able to find that on google mostly because I've been looking under the assumption that because this is an android OS there would be a more technical way of updating the device. Lol.
Not giving up though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some people are reporting that updates come in waves, I know the latest update is doing the rounds now so you might have to wait till that has finished and then you might get a catch up one.
I would just give acer nz a call and ask them
Try and get a date for ICS as well

mrtoken said:
Some people are reporting that updates come in waves, I know the latest update is doing the rounds now so you might have to wait till that has finished and then you might get a catch up one.
I would just give acer nz a call and ask them
Try and get a date for ICS as well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would the update mean much to me since I am still on 3.0.1? I cant even get any of the other ones to even get to the latest update.
If I get a date for ICS, ill be sure to post it.

Just root it, then update. After that you can install a none rooted updated 3.2.1 stock rom

Hi b00mtastik,
I had the same problem with an iconia a couple of days ago. I tried different things and managed to fix it.
I'll try to give you step by step how to fix it (not sure if it will work for you).
I thought that the people from the shop i got the tablet played with it and put some custom rom and so i tried to get it to stock.
I used stuff from this thread.
1. You have to root your tablet - Click here
2. You have to install Clockwork Recovery.
- install from market "Acer Recovery"
- run it and give it root permission
- choose ClockworkMod Recovery rev1.3.4 by thor2002ro
- click Install Recovery Image
3. Download this. It is a backup made with clockworkmod. It will give you an android with version 1.139.02. In the zip is also a update.zip which will update your 1.139.02 to 1.139.05.
4. unzip it and put it on your external sd card (if you do not have one, find one, you need ~ 500 mb free)
5. put the files directly on sd card (e.g. update.zip goes to root, clockworkmod folder goes to root)
6. After that you have to boot in recovery.
- power device off
- keep VOL- button pressed and press and hold power button. Keep holding both button until you get to the menu.
7. Navigate using volume keys and enter a menu using the power button.
8. Navigate to backup/restore and then full backup and full restore (might be a little different). You choose full restore and navigate to restore a backup made on 25.06.
9. Wait until it is done.
10. Reboot and wait for the tablet to boot.
11. Open Acer Recovery and choose to install Stock USA recovery image. install.
12. Again you have to boot in recovery.
- power device off
- keep VOL- button pressed and press and hold power button. Keep holding both button until you see the update installing (An android robot).
13. After the update installs and the tablet boots check for updates.
This has worked for me. I did try other stuff but with no success.
I hope it was helpful for you and you can fix your device.

What you are most likely running into is ACER has not released an OTA for your region. What people are telling you might not be what you want. For example, if someone in the USA is telling you to flash or update, they are often referring to experiences that relate to the USA. NZ might have a different configuration, digital rights, contracts, language, etc etc that ACER just hasn't upgraded yet. Or might not ever upgrade.
If you are totally stock and have never rooted, then CALL ACER TECH SUPPORT and get the correct answer for you make and model for your country. If not, then following directions here might void your warranty. So, just give them a call and see what they tell you first. Then let us know what your find out.
TD

Of course you should first make sure there IS a higher version in your region. And rooting will void warranty.
Although as I spoke with Acer Support about the tablet mentioned in my post, they told me that 3.0.1 is the newest version, which is not true since I have two other a500 tablets both up to 3.2.
Just shared what did it for me.
Hope you can fix your problem the easy way.

Current for NZ is
3.2.1
Kernel version 2.6.36.3+
Build Acer_A500_7.014.15_Com_gen1

Is your current firmware stable? Is everything working OK?

New Zealand and Australia are typically the first countries to get the updates. But they are rolled out by google due to some number to do with your tablet. I'm in the south island and have had 3.2 for quite a while. When I brought my father an A500, it took about a week before the update was available for it. basically if you have any problems just go to the acer ANZ facebook fanpage, one of their acer people are always very good there with question. firmware is stable, and android 4 is meant to be released to NZ/Aussie shortly.
i forgot to mention before you get the big android updates there is a smaller update, i can't remember the size of it, but your tablet has to take that update before it will take the 3.1 or 3.2 update, cannot remember if you need 3.1 before 3.2

I know for a fact that NZ/AUS are supposed to be at 3.2 atleast, as I've seen some of the store A500's with 3.2 running. Also, Acer states NZ/AUS are supposed to be getting ICS 4.0 by the end of Jan.
I'm hoping this will be very soon. I'm thinking that they might have removed the updates from their servers for 3.1 and 3.2 and 3.2.1 and my tablet will just get a OTA for 4.0.
I'm hoping not to have to root anything, but I suppose that'll depend on my patience by the end of this month. Lol.
I should be able to update manually to 3.2 I know this much, but I can't seem to write to my SD Card which is why the manual updating via boot is not working, because it won't let me write to external_sd.
If someone can at least give me ideas on external_sd and write permissions for it WITHOUT rooting. Would be helpful.
Mean while I shall try and get a hold of support and see what they say.
-b00mer

b00mtastik said:
I know for a fact that NZ/AUS are supposed to be at 3.2 atleast, as I've seen some of the store A500's with 3.2 running. Also, Acer states NZ/AUS are supposed to be getting ICS 4.0 by the end of Jan.
I'm hoping this will be very soon. I'm thinking that they might have removed the updates from their servers for 3.1 and 3.2 and 3.2.1 and my tablet will just get a OTA for 4.0.
I'm hoping not to have to root anything, but I suppose that'll depend on my patience by the end of this month. Lol.
I should be able to update manually to 3.2 I know this much, but I can't seem to write to my SD Card which is why the manual updating via boot is not working, because it won't let me write to external_sd.
If someone can at least give me ideas on external_sd and write permissions for it WITHOUT rooting. Would be helpful.
Mean while I shall try and get a hold of support and see what they say.
-b00mer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Download the 3.2.x you want on your PC and put the sdcard in your PC, copy the file to the sdcard on your PC. Now take the sdcard out of the PC and put it into your tablet. Works every time.
Lastly, if you're still under warranty, why not just call ACER for help?

timmyDean said:
Download the 3.2.x you want on your PC and put the sdcard in your PC, copy the file to the sdcard on your PC. Now take the sdcard out of the PC and put it into your tablet. Works every time.
Lastly, if you're still under warranty, why not just call ACER for help?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The last thing I want to do is give it back to them and wait for about 2 weeks for the retail store to get their asses into gear and send it off, then wait another week for Acer to do fix things, which should just not have happened in the first place.
I've tried the idea you gave me mate. I took out the SD Card, and used an old phone that allowed me to access it as a Mass Storage Device because I didn't have a card reader, and formatted it both to FAT first then FAT32 and still no go. The tablet just cannot seem to be recognizing that it even has an External SD Card in it.
Its looking more and more like I'm going to HAVE to go in and get it sorted somehow. Thanks everyone for your input and help. I've also contacted Acer Support. Lets see what they have to say, which I will post here. I'll also fiercely be practicing my Google-Fu to see what else I can find.
-b00mer

I would suggest that you wait for the ICS to start coming out, I can let you know when I get it.
They may have removed the 3.1 and 3.2 from the OTA update sever to get ready for ICS.
If you don't have ICS in a week after it rolls then I would be taking it back to the retailer and telling them that it does not update, they will send it away to get it loaded etc.

mrtoken said:
I would suggest that you wait for the ICS to start coming out, I can let you know when I get it.
They may have removed the 3.1 and 3.2 from the OTA update sever to get ready for ICS.
If you don't have ICS in a week after it rolls then I would be taking it back to the retailer and telling them that it does not update, they will send it away to get it loaded etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its kind of the only choice I have while I'm unable to do anything else.
Thanks mate, that'll be good to know. And yeah, I was thinking they removed it from their servers to get it ready, but I'm hoping they don't cut it out and stop it either like they did with Nexus S. I had to manually update that as well, but that worked seemlessly, while I was JUST getting drunk, during a party. You know something is good when you can do that.
I'm dreading letting it go away, but if they can load it up, I technically should be able to getting it loaded somehow as well?
-b00mer

[Q]Won't update to Android 3.2.1 over FOTA / need original stock ROM

So first of all my tablet is brand new and not rooted and I don't want to root it.
When I got it I could update it instantly from 3.0.whateverwastheversionatthetime to android 3.2 (build 7.006.01_COM_GEN1) but it won't go from there to 3.2.1 which I hear is available for my location (France) The update tool tells me that my firmware is up to date.
I've tried a factory reset as advised by Acer customer care services but it wouldn't change. Also no matter what I do (empty cache etc.) the market won't update to Google Play Store and I think the two issues are related.
So I have two (or rather 3) questions:
1) Does anyone know a way around to force the update? (I doubt it's possible but hey "l'espoir fait vivre")
2) If not can I install a stock ROM without root and NOT compromise the warranty?
3) Where can I get such a ROM? I have searched here and here but 3.2.1 is not on the first thread and the links on the second thread are broken, plus I want to make sure that the ROM is the proper one for my region and that comes the ICS OTA update I will have no troubles doing the update.
Thanks in advance to those who will answer.

lunaticwraith said:
So I have two (or rather 3) questions:
1) Does anyone know a way around to force the update? (I doubt it's possible but hey "l'espoir fait vivre")
2) If not can I install a stock ROM without root and NOT compromise the warranty?
3) Where can I get such a ROM? I have searched here and here but 3.2.1 is not on the first thread and the links on the second thread are broken, plus I want to make sure that the ROM is the proper one for my region and that comes the ICS OTA update I will have no troubles doing the update.
Thanks in advance to those who will answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) No you cannot force an OTA
2) It depends - others have reported returning there acer with no probs -, i think someone has even returned it rooted and been ok. These things are fairly bulletproof, and really hard to 'brick'. As long as you can read, follow a few steps you shouldnt have any probs. The worse thing you can do is try 2 or 3 different methods all at once because something isnt working right. You're best to pick one and stick with it, if you have probs ask for help in the thread you got the rom from or start your own like you have here
3) The update.zip method from the first link you posted "should" work. Did you "decrypt" the file you downloaded before extracting the update.zip??
You could try timmyDeans v4 method- it will install a stock 3.2.1, it is rooted but you can remove root using the tools he provides. Beware though this will wipe all data so backup anything essential.
The update.zip method will leave your data and settings intact
As always the choice is yours, there are some really excellent custom roms out there - I enjoy the best of both worlds with a backup of my trusty stock 3.2.1, I flash to my hearts content knowing I can always go back to it when the OTA update is out!!! Oh the joys of root priveleges

Thanks for your input, I'll make sure to try all this when I get back from work. I've a few additional questions:
1) If I install a custom rom, will the OTA work from this ROM or, comes the OTA, will I have to restore my actual Stock rom and then proceed with the OTA?
2) I haven't tried the rom on the first link I gave because it is modified and I was searching for the original, pristine, untouched stock ROM for 3.2.1
I've seen such roms around here on xda for 3.2 but none for 3.2.1, if anyone stumbles upon one please let me know.
3) Since I'm still looking for a pristine ROM before trying anything else, I have a friend whose tablet (same brand and model) safely updated to 3.2.1, is there a way to make a rom from is gear? If yes, how to?
4) (related to 3) how can I backup my actual ROM, do I have to be a root user to do so?
THX again!

lunaticwraith said:
Thanks for your input, I'll make sure to try all this when I get back from work. I've a few additional questions:
1) If I install a custom rom, will the OTA work from this ROM or, comes the OTA, will I have to restore my actual Stock rom and then proceed with the OTA?
2) I haven't tried the rom on the first link I gave because it is modified and I was searching for the original, pristine, untouched stock ROM for 3.2.1
I've seen such roms around here on xda for 3.2 but none for 3.2.1, if anyone stumbles upon one please let me know.
3) Since I'm still looking for a pristine ROM before trying anything else, I have a friend whose tablet (same brand and model) safely updated to 3.2.1, is there a way to make a rom from is gear? If yes, how to?
4) (related to 3) how can I backup my actual ROM, do I have to be a root user to do so?
THX again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Typically, most people do not take OTA's when running a custom rom, as basically the OTA installs a totally fresh factory Rom. This is true with the 3.2.1 update, which contains a new bootloader. Usually, this means you lose root, and Recovery, then stuck with downgrading to get these things back.
Timmy Deans root tool supposedly maintains a back door method, which s supposed to protect root, in case of an OTA. No, I haven't used this method, as I run my own 501 roms.
2. Vache has a thread "full package and updates" in the 500 Dev forum. There are several factory Roms and Updates. You'll have to look. Chances are, he may not have the specific Com Gen version you want, but probably one close enough.
3. If your friend can get adb running, you can pull a "system dump", which will dump all files/folders in the system folder. The boot.img would be nice to get, but you can probably use the current one you have. Unfortunately, he already rebooted, so you probably can't get the original full update file. If he's rooted, you can use an app called Rom Factory, to get most of what you need. It's always a good time to become familiar with ADB.
4. Well, you can back it up internally, but it's sort of useless if you can't get into your OS You will need to Root, and install a custom recovery to keep your backup externally.

Moscow Desire said:
2. Vache has a thread "full package and updates" in the 500 Dev forum. There are several factory Roms and Updates. You'll have to look. Chances are, he may not have the specific Com Gen version you want, but probably one close enough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, as Moscow has pointed out, in vaches thread not all roms are listed. My stock roms (1.016.01 and 1.139.04) for instance weren't - so I spent the last hour or two trying the "EUU gen1" listed at the bottom of the page. Well, it actually worked!! It gave me an OTA to 1.139.04 straight away. After that installed i got the 4.010.40 to 3.2 and then the next 2 for 3.2.1 - 7.006.03 and 7.014.15. So its given me the correct updates for my country AND kept my data and settings too.
SO, since you're on a Gen1 Rom this should work for you too, but still no gaurantee you will get the OTA to 3.2.1, no harm in trying though
btw timmydeans method is a gen2 rom so you can rule that out...
---------- Post added at 11:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:16 PM ----------
just came across this link for an update to stock 3.2.1 build 7.014.14 here - orignal thread here but you need cwm to install it....
unless you can make it into an update.zip???
but thats way outta my league,
moscow may be able to suggest something though

Thank you very much, your answers help a lot! Just a few precisions and I'll stop being a pain in the ass!
1. Typically, most people do not take OTA's when running a custom rom, as basically the OTA installs a totally fresh factory Rom. This is true with the 3.2.1 update, which contains a new bootloader. Usually, this means you lose root, and Recovery, then stuck with downgrading to get these things back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
==> @ Moscow, when you say "lose recovery" does it mean I lose the green thingy with gears when I start with volume down and power pressed/ and when I reset to factory settings?
==> @dibb_nz your method is the closest to what I'm looking for, I also hope it will give me the correct updates for my country and since Vache is a fellow countryman it might just be ok.
Anyways thanks again, I'll give a thorough look to all of your solutions and try and do a few things tomorrow afternoon. I'll keep you posted in case this thread interests anyone else.

lunaticwraith said:
==> @ Moscow, when you say "lose recovery" does it mean I lose the green thingy with gears when I start with volume down and power pressed/ and when I reset to factory settings?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, what I meant to say, is when you run a rooted "custom" Rom, and use a "custom" recovery such as RA Recovery or CWM, getting an OTA update, usually wipes that out, and installs the factory bootloader. Your factory recovery....cough cough.... will still be there.
If you are only concerned about stock factory, then don't worry about it. You;re ok. Your factory/stock recovery will be just fine
The reason we root and install custom recoveries, is so we can do 3 primary things.
1. Flash a custom rom
2. Create a complete system backup to our external SD card.
3. Get rid of pre-installed useless apps.
There are other things we can do with it, but these are the primary reasons.
When you have a default factory stock system, the only protection you have, is a factory reset (hope it works), and a couple other methods which require a touch more knowledge.
Anyhow, don't worry about your factory recovery. It's just fine.

1) Just for the sake of knowledge what's the difference between GEN_1 and GEN_2? (and GEN3 and CUS7 and EMEA_TMLP)?
2) @Dibb_nz when you tried with the stock rom from Vache, was it because you encountered the same no FOTA update problem as I did? Or just to try...?
3) Something's still unclear to me after browsing through the forums: If I get an unmodified stock ROM can I flash it with the stock recovery? (so without rooting) Or do I need CWM (so root is needed)
4) What's EUU? (on Vache's thread some roms are listed as EUU)

lunaticwraith said:
1) Just for the sake of knowledge what's the difference between GEN_1 and GEN_2? (and GEN3 and CUS7 and EMEA_TMLP)?
2) @Dibb_nz when you tried with the stock rom from Vache, was it because you encountered the same no FOTA update problem as I did? Or just to try...?
3) Something's still unclear to me after browsing through the forums: If I get an unmodified stock ROM can I flash it with the stock recovery? (so without rooting) Or do I need CWM (so root is needed)
4) What's EUU? (on Vache's thread some roms are listed as EUU)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The Gen's usually signify regional based roms. More specifically language support, sometimes a wifi tweak, and maybe a couple other things. Mostly though, ComGen1's are for the US and probably canada, and offer about 12 different languages. TMPL is for East Europe mostly, with polish as the default language. All roms contain the english language as far as I know.
3. You basically can't install a full rom on an unrooted tablet without CWM or RA Recovery. You will have to run the update (decrypt the file, remove the update.zip)
4. EUU is a pc based install. Plug in the USB, set your tab to APX mode and run the EUU.
If you did the root, and install a custom recovery, then you could run just about all the full roms. Your custom recovery would be overwritten, and you would lose root access. You would have a stock tablet with the version rom you selected.
You can always wait a week or so. Am sure if the update has been pushed to your country, it's just a matter of time till you get it. It's common for the update process for specific roms, to get fully done in 2-3 weeks. It took well over a week just for users in california to mostly start getting updates.

Well the official release date for the ICS FOTA in France is May 3rd, so I'll wait until then but having other options and the know-how to take actions is always a good basis. (plus I'm really not the patient type ^^)
Stupid question but I'm guessing EUU needs root too?
and also APX means rebooting while holding power and volume - right?

lunaticwraith said:
Well the official release date for the ICS FOTA in France is May 3rd, so I'll wait until then but having other options and the know-how to take actions is always a good basis. (plus I'm really not the patient type ^^)
Stupid question but I'm guessing EUU needs root too?
and also APX means rebooting while holding power and volume - right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the EUU just to see if it would keep me on my regions OTA upgrade path.
Sometimes you can have probs OTA'ing if you aren't using the rom from your region.
But in this case it gave me the correct OTA's.
APX is Acer Download mode, where the OTA upgrades are flashed - this EUU will do it via your PC. Button push method (power/reset button) not required.
No, the EUU does not need root which is why I tried it out for you
You will need to be on 3.2.1 before you will receive the ICS update
I used this EUU from vaches thread -
EUUs_SBK_Acer_A500_1.016.05_COM_GEN1
late for work will check back later

That's really helpful thanks I'm downloading the same EUU you used and will try it today or tomorrow depending on how much time I have, will keep you posted!

Ok so I did the EUU install and it worked fine, the tablet then allowed me to upgrade to 3.01 and then 3.1 then 3.2 via FOTA without any problem. But once I reached 3.2, the update tool informs me that there's no update available and my gear is up to date
So my guess is Acer France are not pushing the 3.2.1 FOTA update anymore...
Any other explanation?

lunaticwraith said:
Ok so I did the EUU install and it worked fine, the tablet then allowed me to upgrade to 3.01 and then 3.1 then 3.2 via FOTA without any problem. But once I reached 3.2, the update tool informs me that there's no update available and my gear is up to date
So my guess is Acer France are not pushing the 3.2.1 FOTA update anymore...
Any other explanation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear u got thru the EUU process OK, not so great u still can't ota to 3.2.1
Others have reported similar issues not sure if/how they were ever resolved. As moscow posted earlier,ota,s are not made available to all users in all regions, all at once, so it may be just a matter of waiting for the next "push cycle" to roll round.
At least you know you can always get back to stock if you ever decide to root and go custom There no direct root method for 3.2, just use that same euu to get back to 3.1 and use iconia root and Acer recovery installer from the market and you're ready to flash your rom of choice
Pls post back if u do get the ota - best of luck
rgds Donna

Yeah I was just browsing the XDA forums, contemplating the idea to rollback and root and then installing this
I wonder if it's worth waiting for the OTA... as for what you said about waiting for the next "push cycle" I've been waiting since I got the tablet and the update hasn't come yet, which is strange because the ICS update is due on May 3rd in France and I'd guess they'd have everyone up to date and ready for the update by now!
Rooting seems pretty straightforward and much easier than what it was on my Samsung Galaxy Spica: I found this
, a file called iconiaroot.apk on the sdcard aswell, rebooting your tablet while pushing the volume down button so its starts flashing the buggy honeycomb version.
Then start up the tablet again, rush to the market, download some file manager, with that filemanager explore your sdcard, and install the iconiaroot.apk file, once thats done, rush back to the market and download and install acer recovery installer. At that point you will have CWM (clockworkmod) installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
is that all there is to it?
In any case I'll keep you posted just so it can help anyone with the same issue!

alsoe FYI and just for the anecdote: the reason I'm so cautious about everything and scared ****less of rooting is that the tablet is a present from my girlfriend for my 30th birthday, and she'll hang me with my guts if I brick it.

Ok I rooted and flashed the above-mentioned rom and it works! I'm now under 3.2.1!
Thanks to everyone who helped me! When the ICS update comes I will post here to signal how the FOTA went.
Thanks again!

Lol, good onya for taking the plunge! Yeh acer recovery installer is brilliant, along with iconia root, makes the whole process stress free.
Will be interesting to see if you get a notification for ICS OTA with that rom.
Can always flash one of the leaks if u get impatient??
Glad everything's worked out and yr g/f still talking 2 u
rgds Donna

thx! I will post here when/if I get the OTA. and my love life is safe thanksnto iconia root

okay so the ota has been rolling for over a week and a half now and still nothing for me

[Solved]ACER Iconia A501 3g/wifi TAB - Help with root/ROM install (TimmyDean method)

Hi everyone.
Just repeating again - the model I have is A501 on stock 3.2.1 Honeycomb - a more USEFUL tablet with 3G and WIFI capabilities...One would think it would be a much more popular model, but the A501 doesn't have its own board on XDA; its merged with this board for the less practical A500. Basically, I have created this thread as I don't want to take any 'extra' risks in successfully installing ROOT with the CORRECT ROM with the most updated version of Android available for this tab, for example Jellybean...
Another A501 user, beny9 posted:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1745550
Following TimmyDean's method (thank you) I have now managed to install 3.2 Honeycomb A500 ROM with success after completing steps 1-15 inclusive from his README file. As you will know, I don't have 3G or GPS functionality, so I need a stock A501 ROM to install.
I have found:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1113878
Is my best bet to install Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1 : http://cdn.a1.futuredial.com/Acer_A5...2_35b68c5d.zip from that above link, which will keep me on HC 3.2 but now, it will be the ROM for the A501? As it seems the only other NEWER Acer updates for ICS are A500 only...
Can someone link me the a fully detailed video or post on here on installing the ROM i mentioned above (if that's the best one to go with, given what I'm on now; A500 3.2 and still keeping root), or to install some other A501 ROM which is for at least Jellybean or ICS?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1828876
Per this link, shoukd i just use the update.zip (for the 3.2 HC A501 ROM) put it on the SD card then boot up holding POWER + VOL DOWN until the file auto-installs?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1099673
Before I can try the above, I also have trouble after i download the ROM's zip file when I try to unzip. I have downloaded the Acer Update Decrypter, but AVG antiVirus will not allow me to run the EVE file even as an administrator. What should i do?
Thanks
RoOSTA

Your best bet is to install a good 501 HC 3.2 and get on HC for your 501.
The files are available. What you'll probably want is a full HC Update rom for the 501. Note that some of these Acer roms are encrypted, so you'll need to decrypt it first. You can find the decrypting tool in the Themes and Apps forum, as a "Sticky". After decrypting, you can pull the update.zip out of it, and copy to Ext SD (do not extract, just pull the update file out). Boot the tab holding Vol- and PWR I believe. Might be Vol+ but I can't remember. This should force the tab to look for update.zip on your SD and install it.
I would use this one;
Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1
After it installs, and you get it set up, you need to get Acer Update Enhancer from the Play Store. This will allow your tab to get the ICS OTA.
Keep in mind, there is only 1 official ICS OTA update for the 501, so don't expect more. It may do it in 2 steps though.
If you want root on ICS, there is really only 1 way to get true root and adb system remounts. And that's to flash the V8 unlocked ICS Bootloader, and flash an insecure boot.image. There's currently a small package that'll give you somewhat root, but it's a pain and really doesn't do a good job. So it's better to get the V8 and unsecure boot image. Might be a good idea to also install CWM Recovery at the same time.
Get the correct rom installed first, then check back if you need help.
Oh yeah, one more thing. When you are on HC 3.2, get your UID number and write it down somewhere. You need this as a safety precaution. There's a good sticky thread on how to do it. Pretty simple really.
MD

Ugh. I have a pain in the A$$ version of AVG...even under advanced settings there was no disable options. Managed to figure it out to run the Acer Decrypter EXE and fix the image you have advised I should download and flash. Will give that a go now...
Thanks again!

Just to fill you in, this issue is solved.
1. Used TimmyDeans rollback V4 tool to a 500 rom
2. SD card was not recognized in CWM or Stock recovery. Was however recognized in the HC OS.
3. Formatted SD Card using Mini Tool formatting app. Format primary partition only to fat32 (defaults)
4. Decrypted and pulled update.zip from this 501 HC full update rom
Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1816560
5. Did OTA update to 3.2.1
6. No more OTA available, even after installing Acer Update Enhancment tool.
7. Downloaded and used Blackthund3rs Bootloader management app
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
8.Downloaded V8 and CWM package, unzipped to the same folder as the tool
9. Ran the 500NVFlashapx app.
10. After completion, booted to CWM recovery, wiped and formatted, and install Moscow Desire's RaptorX almost stock ICS rom.
Works as advertised.
MD

Yep. All thanks to MD's patience and assistance throughout these steps..
Moscow Desire said:
Just to fill you in, this issue is solved.
1. Used TimmyDeans rollback V4 tool to a 500 rom
2. SD card was not recognized in CWM or Stock recovery. Was however recognized in the HC OS.
3. Formatted SD Card using Mini Tool formatting app. Format primary partition only to fat32 (defaults)
4. Decrypted and pulled update.zip from this 501 HC full update rom
Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1816560
5. Did OTA update to 3.2.1
6. No more OTA available, even after installing Acer Update Enhancment tool.
7. Downloaded and used Blackthund3rs Bootloader management app
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
8.Downloaded V8 and CWM package, unzipped to the same folder as the tool
9. Ran the 500NVFlashapx app.
10. After completion, booted to CWM recovery, wiped and formatted, and install Moscow Desire's RaptorX almost stock ICS rom.
Works as advertised.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Acer A501 OS refreshment
Moscow Desire said:
Your best bet is to install a good 501 HC 3.2 and get on HC for your 501.
The files are available. What you'll probably want is a full HC Update rom for the 501. Note that some of these Acer roms are encrypted, so you'll need to decrypt it first. You can find the decrypting tool in the Themes and Apps forum, as a "Sticky". After decrypting, you can pull the update.zip out of it, and copy to Ext SD (do not extract, just pull the update file out). Boot the tab holding Vol- and PWR I believe. Might be Vol+ but I can't remember. This should force the tab to look for update.zip on your SD and install it.
I would use this one;
Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1
After it installs, and you get it set up, you need to get Acer Update Enhancer from the Play Store. This will allow your tab to get the ICS OTA.
Keep in mind, there is only 1 official ICS OTA update for the 501, so don't expect more. It may do it in 2 steps though.
If you want root on ICS, there is really only 1 way to get true root and adb system remounts. And that's to flash the V8 unlocked ICS Bootloader, and flash an insecure boot.image. There's currently a small package that'll give you somewhat root, but it's a pain and really doesn't do a good job. So it's better to get the V8 and unsecure boot image. Might be a good idea to also install CWM Recovery at the same time.
Get the correct rom installed first, then check back if you need help.
Oh yeah, one more thing. When you are on HC 3.2, get your UID number and write it down somewhere. You need this as a safety precaution. There's a good sticky thread on how to do it. Pretty simple really.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am embarking on a very crucial mission for my Acer A501 . Its tablet OS refreshment. I have spoken and written to Acer but all my pleas have fallen on deaf ears. At last i stumbled on this site and WOW ! I am downloading the Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1 and will flash as per the instruction. But I am finding difficult to locate the "sticky" software for the decryption the above. can you please help me locate the same.
I really appreciate your help and thank you in advance

jonnybrave said:
I am embarking on a very crucial mission for my Acer A501 . Its tablet OS refreshment. I have spoken and written to Acer but all my pleas have fallen on deaf ears. At last i stumbled on this site and WOW ! I am downloading the Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1 and will flash as per the instruction. But I am finding difficult to locate the "sticky" software for the decryption the above. can you please help me locate the same.
I really appreciate your help and thank you in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is the decryption tool. Located in themes and apps.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1869505
Good Luck!
MD

Trouble installing update.zip for A501
Moscow Desire said:
Here is the decryption tool. Located in themes and apps.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1869505
Good Luck!
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi MD,
I have Acer Iconia A501 tablet. My tablet suddenly showed andriod logo with exclamation mark when it was being used. Upon looking at your posts, I found the resolution which I tried. I am not expert in this all, but I tried running your ROM "41-124-01-A500-update" from one of your posts which was actually meant for A500. This resolved the issue successfully and tablet was up and running.
Then further I found full ROM for A501 as mentioned below and thought that I should try the ROM meant for the model of my tablet.
I successfully decrypted the ROM that you mentioned "Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1"
When I tried to update it with the mentioned ROM update.zip, it did updated it from SD card and passed android symbol with those gears running. However, when it restarted the tablet by itself, it showed ACER logo and then it showed "ANDROID" (spelling in blue color) which kept on flikering slowly for long long time....for more than 30 minutes and did not moved further. Can you please let me know whats could be wrong?
I also tried ICS ROM, but that didn't worked (it failed). So after couple of trail and error, I moved back to A500 ROM update.zip which I knew that is installing successfully.
Can you please let me know what shall be done in case I want update.zip for A501? It will be highly appreciated if you can upload update.zip directly that I can use and that gets installed successfully.
Regards,
Muk

mukapril said:
Hi MD,
I have Acer Iconia A501 tablet. My tablet suddenly showed andriod logo with exclamation mark when it was being used. Upon looking at your posts, I found the resolution which I tried. I am not expert in this all, but I tried running your ROM "41-124-01-A500-update" from one of your posts which was actually meant for A500. This resolved the issue successfully and tablet was up and running.
Then further I found full ROM for A501 as mentioned below and thought that I should try the ROM meant for the model of my tablet.
I successfully decrypted the ROM that you mentioned "Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1"
When I tried to update it with the mentioned ROM update.zip, it did updated it from SD card and passed android symbol with those gears running. However, when it restarted the tablet by itself, it showed ACER logo and then it showed "ANDROID" (spelling in blue color) which kept on flikering slowly for long long time....for more than 30 minutes and did not moved further. Can you please let me know whats could be wrong?
I also tried ICS ROM, but that didn't worked (it failed). So after couple of trail and error, I moved back to A500 ROM update.zip which I knew that is installing successfully.
Can you please let me know what shall be done in case I want update.zip for A501? It will be highly appreciated if you can upload update.zip directly that I can use and that gets installed successfully.
Regards,
Muk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey Muk, I can probably guess the ROM you installed doesn't do data wipes and such, so it caused an animation loop.
Try this one. It's an SD ROM, so it "should" wipe your Data, along with installing the ROM.
https://mega.co.nz/#!NZBlBSLQ!mOHICp7gbinkYeHCvrEz7aKXsWQjjquAWq_XC_lSQzk
As you probably discovered, Acer has pretty much removed almost all tablet ROMs. I snagged a few the other day, then checked yesterday, and they removed all from their support site.
I would guess they are getting out of the tablet business.
Also, they shut down their OTA Update servers for a few months now.

Acer A501
mukapril said:
Hi MD,
I have Acer Iconia A501 tablet. My tablet suddenly showed andriod logo with exclamation mark when it was being used. Upon looking at your posts, I found the resolution which I tried. I am not expert in this all, but I tried running your ROM "41-124-01-A500-update" from one of your posts which was actually meant for A500. This resolved the issue successfully and tablet was up and running.
Then further I found full ROM for A501 as mentioned below and thought that I should try the ROM meant for the model of my tablet.
I successfully decrypted the ROM that you mentioned "Acer_A501_1.309.02_4.031.24_COM_GEN1"
When I tried to update it with the mentioned ROM update.zip, it did updated it from SD card and passed android symbol with those gears running. However, when it restarted the tablet by itself, it showed ACER logo and then it showed "ANDROID" (spelling in blue color) which kept on flikering slowly for long long time....for more than 30 minutes and did not moved further. Can you please let me know whats could be wrong?
I also tried ICS ROM, but that didn't worked (it failed). So after couple of trail and error, I moved back to A500 ROM update.zip which I knew that is installing successfully.
Can you please let me know what shall be done in case I want update.zip for A501? It will be highly appreciated if you can upload update.zip directly that I can use and that gets installed successfully.
Regards,
Muk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A big thank you to Moscow. I have tried the above link but still no go.. I have seen on Acer website they have updated the OS but all Android 4.0 ICS and nothing with Honeycomb. The tablet was initially with Honeycomb. Please advice. Thank you and Best Regards.

Trouble installing ROM for A501
jonnybrave said:
A big thank you to Moscow. I have tried the above link but still no go.. I have seen on Acer website they have updated the OS but all Android 4.0 ICS and nothing with Honeycomb. The tablet was initially with Honeycomb. Please advice. Thank you and Best Regards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi MD,
Thanks for your super fast response. I am downloading the ROM for A501 from the link provided by me. I will update you if it works in my tab.
I forgot to mention you about one message that I received once tablet is restarted. So, once ROM for A501 from SD card has performed its job successfully....that is that android symbol with gears in its tummy is successfully finished and tablet restarts. It shows "Acer" (spelling logo) and then after it gets stuck at "android" (spelling logo). Between these two, it displays two lines messages on top left corner for 2-3 seconds that the "blob is illegal - abort" and then gets stuck at "android" (spelling logo). I think this might be useful for you to identify something.
Another thing about wiping out the data, in starting when we press volume down and power button, it does display message about SD card (still not not sure about whether it might be wiping out the data or not....I believe you might be correct that it might not be wiping out the data).
Another thing, that I found in my backup is that when I purchased this tab (A501), I downloaded HoneyComb 3.2 Kernel Source Code from the Acer support site. Is this something that you can do magic with and provide me with update.zip? Please let me know....if you can do magic with this, then let me know how shall I share it with you.
Regards,
Muk

Trouble installing ROM for A501
Hi MD,
Thanks for your super fast response.
I tried downloading the ROM for A501 from the link provided by you. It downloaded it from the cloud, but at the very end it displayed message "Decryption Error". Still I tried extracting "update.zip" from the zip file, but it displayed message that the archive is corrupt and file is corrupt. Can you please check at your end and provide me with fresh link or directly with update.zip? For your reference I have attached screenshots of errors.
I forgot to mention you about one message that I received once tablet is restarted. So, once ROM for A501 from SD card has performed its job successfully....that is that android symbol with gears in its tummy is successfully finished and tablet restarts. It shows "Acer" (spelling logo) and then after it gets stuck at "android" (spelling logo). Between these two, it displays two lines messages on top left corner for 2-3 seconds that the "blob is illegal - abort" and then gets stuck at "android" (spelling logo). I think this might be useful for you to identify something.
Another thing about wiping out the data, in starting when we press volume down and power button, it does display message about SD card (still not not sure about whether it might be wiping out the data or not....I believe you might be correct that it might not be wiping out the data).
Another thing, that I found in my backup is that when I purchased this tab (A501), I downloaded HoneyComb 3.2 Kernel Source Code from the Acer support site. Is this something that you can do magic with and provide me with update.zip? Please let me know....if you can do magic with this, then let me know how shall I share it with you.
Regards,
Muk

Trouble installing ROM for A501
Hi MD,
Please read my earlier message and then read this one.
Thanks a lot....your answer about my first problem resolved everything.... (your answer was "that the ROM that I am trying to install is not clearing the data"...I verified that the ROM is clearing the cache, but not the user data. I can confidently say that you correctly identified the issue as when the ROM installation was stuck at "android"....I switched off my tablet and tried installing again the old ROM for A500 which I knew that it is working and instead of asking me to configure the tablet (i.e. time zone, date & time setup, etc.) after installation, it simply logged in and started my tablet as usual....that means that when I was trying to install ROM for A501, it was not clearing user data and was then hanging).
Now coming back to the link that you sent me in previous message, I was able to download the zip file successfully in the second attempt. I extracted the update.zip and it did not work. It showed the similar problem of getting stuck at "android". However, with your great answer that you gave me, I cleared the user data and cache manually by pressing vol up + power buttons simultaneously and then when "acer" symbol displays, releasing only power button and turning on and off the lock button. This cleared user data and cache. After that, since update.zip (that you provided) was already in my SD card, it installed the ROM and tablet works perfectly. Thanks a lot....:good:
One question, when it asked me about the zone, it had only few countries like US, UK, etc. I couldn't find Australia...is it because this ROM not for Australia? I understand that this is not an issue, but if you find anything for Australia, do send me.
Another thing, is this HoneyComb 3.2? Will 3G and GPS work in this one?
Do let me know if you can do some magic with HoneyComb 3.2 kernel source code that I have as mentioned earlier.
Regards,
Muk

mukapril said:
Hi MD,
Please read my earlier message and then read this one.
Thanks a lot....your answer about my first problem resolved everything.... (your answer was "that the ROM that I am trying to install is not clearing the data"...I verified that the ROM is clearing the cache, but not the user data. I can confidently say that you correctly identified the issue as when the ROM installation was stuck at "android"....I switched off my tablet and tried installing again the old ROM for A500 which I knew that it is working and instead of asking me to configure the tablet (i.e. time zone, date & time setup, etc.) after installation, it simply logged in and started my tablet as usual....that means that when I was trying to install ROM for A501, it was not clearing user data and was then hanging).
Now coming back to the link that you sent me in previous message, I was able to download the zip file successfully in the second attempt. I extracted the update.zip and it did not work. It showed the similar problem of getting stuck at "android". However, with your great answer that you gave me, I cleared the user data and cache manually by pressing vol up + power buttons simultaneously and then when "acer" symbol displays, releasing only power button and turning on and off the lock button. This cleared user data and cache. After that, since update.zip (that you provided) was already in my SD card, it installed the ROM and tablet works perfectly. Thanks a lot....:good:
One question, when it asked me about the zone, it had only few countries like US, UK, etc. I couldn't find Australia...is it because this ROM not for Australia? I understand that this is not an issue, but if you find anything for Australia, do send me.
Another thing, is this HoneyComb 3.2? Will 3G and GPS work in this one?
Do let me know if you can do some magic with HoneyComb 3.2 kernel source code that I have as mentioned earlier.
Regards,
Muk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm mobile right now, so can't go into big detail.
In your settings, about tablet, you can always find info on which specific OS you have. If you indeed have an A501 and the settings tells you that your tablet is a 501, then your 3g and GPS should function.
The only 2 differences between an A500 and an A501 is of course 3g. Also, they use different GPS radios. So you can install 500 Roms on a 501 and vice versa. Just the above 2 items won't work. Also, I believe I gave you a 3.2.x ROM. Getting it to ICS 4.0.4 may be a problem.
I revived my own 501 last night by putting the motherboard in the oven, but now it doesn't read my ext SD card, so I may be stuck on 3.2. Eh, no problem.

mukapril said:
Hi MD,
Please read my earlier message and then read this one.
Thanks a lot....your answer about my first problem resolved everything.... (your answer was "that the ROM that I am trying to install is not clearing the data"...I verified that the ROM is clearing the cache, but not the user data. I can confidently say that you correctly identified the issue as when the ROM installation was stuck at "android"....I switched off my tablet and tried installing again the old ROM for A500 which I knew that it is working and instead of asking me to configure the tablet (i.e. time zone, date & time setup, etc.) after installation, it simply logged in and started my tablet as usual....that means that when I was trying to install ROM for A501, it was not clearing user data and was then hanging).
Now coming back to the link that you sent me in previous message, I was able to download the zip file successfully in the second attempt. I extracted the update.zip and it did not work. It showed the similar problem of getting stuck at "android". However, with your great answer that you gave me, I cleared the user data and cache manually by pressing vol up + power buttons simultaneously and then when "acer" symbol displays, releasing only power button and turning on and off the lock button. This cleared user data and cache. After that, since update.zip (that you provided) was already in my SD card, it installed the ROM and tablet works perfectly. Thanks a lot....:good:
One question, when it asked me about the zone, it had only few countries like US, UK, etc. I couldn't find Australia...is it because this ROM not for Australia? I understand that this is not an issue, but if you find anything for Australia, do send me.
Another thing, is this HoneyComb 3.2? Will 3G and GPS work in this one?
Do let me know if you can do some magic with HoneyComb 3.2 kernel source code that I have as mentioned earlier.
Regards,
Muk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello mukapril .. may you provide me with the Honeycomb ROM which I might try ?
Thanking you and Best Regards

Trouble installing A501 ROM
Moscow Desire said:
I'm mobile right now, so can't go into big detail.
In your settings, about tablet, you can always find info on which specific OS you have. If you indeed have an A501 and the settings tells you that your tablet is a 501, then your 3g and GPS should function.
The only 2 differences between an A500 and an A501 is of course 3g. Also, they use different GPS radios. So you can install 500 Roms on a 501 and vice versa. Just the above 2 items won't work. Also, I believe I gave you a 3.2.x ROM. Getting it to ICS 4.0.4 may be a problem.
I revived my own 501 last night by putting the motherboard in the oven, but now it doesn't read my ext SD card, so I may be stuck on 3.2. Eh, no problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi MD,
Apologies for very long replies. Wanted to convey the message in detail how I did it so that it might help someone else like me.
Thanks for your response. I have tested it, 3G and GPS is working fine. I believe, before my tab encountered this problem, it was having version 4 which should be ICS. At that stage I didn't had any problem with my tab...I believe it was there for long time.
If you have good known ROM for ICS, please forward me I can try on my tab. If it doesn't work, then will re-install the Honeycomb that you sent earlier.
One more question....when I try to update the system from "About Tablet" in Settings, why it displays message the the "network is poor" and advices to move to better coverage? Though, I am just besides my WiFi modem and coverage is almost 100%.
And @jonnybrave: If you are referring to the ROM that I successfully installed which was sent by MD earlier, then it does not need any decryption. So you can use the link sent by MD earlier in this post. And if you are referring to the KernelSourceCode that I mentioned earleir, then it needs some kind of processing in Linux machine and then you can create some image.....this is was I know about it....sorry not an andrion guru. Please let me know what you are referring to.
Regards,
Mukesh

mukapril said:
One more question....when I try to update the system from "About Tablet" in Settings, why it displays message the the "network is poor" and advices to move to better coverage? Though, I am just besides my WiFi modem and coverage is almost 100%.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You get the message as do all 500/501 owners (it can change depending on version of Rom).
Acer no longer gives updates to any of their devices (regardless of age). These are otherwise known as OTA Updates. So they have closed their update servers, so now we get some "message" that absolutely means nothing.
I suppose Acer is getting out of the Android business and no longer supports anything. Nice job Acer.
As for updating to ICS (or any other version), I have a few update files. Generally though, the update files must be matched to the current version of your tablet. Sometimes you can run a "full update" and it will work.
The problem, is these tablets are getting old, and the nand memory can go bad. Running an update can cause a variety of problems such as "Stuck in APX" mode, stuck at bootloader, stuck at boot animation. Then we have to go back to the EUUS file, or an old SD ROM file. So you run the risk of doing things all over again, and the risk that it just won't work again. (I spent a couple hours last night, and was almost ready to throw it in the garbage)
For example, I'm pretty much stuck at 3.0.x or 3.2.x. I've already disassembled the tablet and put the mainboard in the oven, just to get it back to life! And after numerous attempts to get ICS on it, I've pretty much given up before it hard bricks again. In fact, I can't get a 3.2.x EUUS to work on it, so it is stuck at the 3.0.x ATT EUUS. Eh, it's my little girls tab, so as long as it gets You Tube and browser, it's pretty much ok.

Trouble installing A501 ROM
Hi MD,
I am in the same boat as you...lol...This tablet is mostly used by my daughter and as long as it is solving my daughter's purpose, we are happy
I was just curious about that message as to why that is happenning, but after your clarification, it is clear to me as to why it is happenning.
My tablet is working as normal and everything is working fine...so we are happy with what we have.
Thanks a lot!
Regards,
Muk
---------- Post added at 03:04 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:48 AM ----------
jonnybrave said:
Hello mukapril .. may you provide me with the Honeycomb ROM which I might try ?
Thanking you and Best Regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Jonny,
If you are referring to the ROM that I successfully installed which was sent by MD earlier, then it does not need any decryption. So you can use the link sent by MD earlier in this post. And if you are referring to the KernelSourceCode that I mentioned earleir, then it needs some kind of processing in Linux machine and then you can create some image.....this is was I know about it....sorry not an andrion guru. Please let me know what you are referring to.
Regards,
Muk