Well, flashing a custom ROM on our beloved Iconias became quite easy now thanks to developers on xda. Most of you are quite familiar with the procedure but there are still people that ask basic things all over the ROM developement threads. This is just a beginner's guide, an attempt to collect all the procedures and tools in one thread. Nothing of this is my work and I would like to say THANK YOU to sc2k, thor2002ro, Euclid's Brother, Chainfire, monki-magic, drellisdee, ezterry, Skrilax_CZ, gersma and all A500 developers for making this possible.
You will need the following: external SD card, root rights, unlocked bootloader (if you're on stock ICS), custom recovery and a custom ROM of your choice.
Well lets start by placing an SD card in the SD card expansion slot. Its file system should be FAT32!
*This is optional: To be sure it is recognized later in CWM, format it first with SD Formatter - a tool that can be downloaded from here. Use your home computer / notebook with a card reader for this procedure. Alternatively you can do this using an ANDROID phone.
1.ROOT
Root for Honeycomb 3.0.1 by monki-magic
original thread by Slowie911 here
1. Make sure usb debugging is turned on and unknown sources is selected in Applications settings.
2. Have a micro sd card inserted and turn the tablet on portrait mode and lock it with the switch to fix it in portrait.
3. Download and execute the attached apk. (i had to download from my comp and transfer to the tablet for it to work).
4. Once the apk is installed run the root procedure within the app which was installed
5. Wait and you will receive full root access.
Download Gingerbreak 1.20
Root for Honeycomb 3.1 by sc2k thread here
1. Goto Settings->Applications and enable "Unkown sources"
2. Download the attached APK file
3. Copy the file to your Iconia
4. Install the APK & start the tool
5. Click "root"
6. Enjoy
/IconiaRoot should work on both 3.0.x and 3.1/
Download Iconiaroot 1.3
Root for Honeycomb 3.2.x OTA
Unfortunately there's no dedicated rooting app yet developed for HC3.2. It also comes with a new bootloader. In order to get root you need to revert to an older version of Honeycomb first where Iconiaroot works. How to do that is explained in details in this thread
UPDATE: if you're on OTA HC 3.2.x then you can just update to ICS and use the method for rooting ICS - links posted below
Root for ICS 4.x.x OTA
Stock ICS Leak One-Click Root Tool by blackthund3r
or
Full root for A500 ICS 4.0.3 - Simple method, posted by ZeroNull
2. Bootloader
Since there are many new ICS custom ROMs and custom recoveries, please read in their dedicated threads if they require ICS bootloader. Some of the ROMs can recognize the version of your bootloader and load the proper boot.img during boot. In general - if you're on Honeycomb - you have HC bootloader. If you've updated OTA to ICS, then you have stock ICS bootloader, that is unusable for flashing custom ROMs and therefore you need the unlocked bootloader. A guide on how to install it read here - thanks civato. This thread links to a nice little piece of software (option 1) by gersma that can automatically do all the job for you - install ICS unlocked bootloader and custom recovery. Read and download here - AfterOTA by gersma
3.Custom recovery
original thread with clockworkmod recovery by thor2002ro here
1. Open Market app with your tablet and search for Acer Recovery Installer.
Acer recovery installer
2. Install it and then open it. It has ClockworkMod Recovery by thor2002ro rev1.3.4 built-in.
3. Select "ClockworkMod Recovery rev.1.3.4 by thor2002ro". Tap on install Recovery Image. A popup offering to backup current recovery image will appear. Surely, buckup! Thus you can restore your original recovery image in case of need. Then CWM will be installed. Once it is installed you can remove Acer Recovery Installer tool from your system if you want.
thor2002ro updated CWM to 1.7.3. You can download the zip from tegraowners.com. Later versions of his recovery does not meet GPL because of the "mini" kernel of his - sources not being released. It supports flashing both from internal memory and the external SD card. In order to update your CWM to this latest version, place the downloaded ZIP on your external sd card and update from your CWM by choosing install zip from sd card. Alternatively you can extract the recovery.img from the zip, place it on your external sd card and install it through Acer Recovery Installer by choosing Custom or Stock recovery.img from micro sdcard.
GPL compliant recoveries
RA Revamped for Iconia
TeamWin Recovery Project (twrp) - needs ICS bootloader
A500 Public Recovery
Since the creation of AfterOTA by gersma, you can use his software to install both the bootloader and CWM before flashing the ROM. Get it HERE
4. Flashing custom ROM
Download the ROM of your choice which should be a zip file. Place the zip on your EXTERNAL SD card. Power off your device. Now hold volume down and power buttons together until you see text appearing on the top left corner of the screen - you can release both buttons now. Wait until CWM loads. Volume keys (Up and Down) are used to navigate the CWM menu. Power button is uded as "Enter" i.e. to proceed with your selection. Before going on to install your ROM do a full backup of your system first. Navigate to "backup and restore" and then select Full Backup. Wait untill the operation completes.
Now do the following:
Wipe menu:
- wipe data/factory reset -> navigate to "Yes - delete all user data"
this should format you data partition and cache partition (dalvik cache is gone as well)
Mounts and storage menu
- Format System
this should format your system partition
The above commands are presented in thor's CWM. There are slightly different menus and sub-menus in the other custom recoveries but if you dig a little you'll find that they do the same things and you'll get the idea of what you're doing.
Now you're ready to install your ROM. Get back to the main CWM menu and select
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
Navigate to your zip on the SD card and install it - choose "Yes" again to install. Wait untill installation is complete, return to the main CWM menu and choose "reboot system now".
You're done, enjoy your first custom ROM. Take time for its initial configuration.
5. Flashing custom KERNEL
Flashing custom kernel is as same as custom ROM. You place the zip (Kernels come in zip files as well) on your external SD card and:
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
It is recommended before flashing a new kernel to wipe cache partition and dalvik cache. And of course first you flash the ROM and then the desired Kernel
6. UNBRICKING by flashing a stock ROM
thanks to vache we have full packages shared in his topic
vache said:
Once the desired file downloaded, you have to use Acer Update Decryter by thor2002ro to decrypt them.
After decrypting the file, you have to extract the update.zip from it, put it on an external SDCard (does not work on internal memory) and boot your tablet with Vol- & Power. The update will launch automatically.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
p.s. Feel free to add stuff to this tutorial - video, pistures or anything you find useful or to correct me if I've made a mistake.
This is fantastic. Thank you. I have had my iconia for a month now and been looking at flashing a custom rom but kept backing out. Just a couple of questions for clarification:
(1). Does wiping data erase the internal sd?
(2). If by some stroke of bad luck a flash is unsuccessful and a boot loop or similar occurs, am I right in my understanding that you can just go straight back into recovery and re-flash?
(3). What are the chances of bricking the tablet?
Sorry for noon questions, please just wanna certain because my gf bought me this tablet under the condition I don't do anything risky like on my x10 that I flash almost daily haha
Thanks for replies
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
kylec said:
This is fantastic. Thank you. I have had my iconia for a month now and been looking at flashing a custom rom but kept backing out. Just a couple of questions for clarification:
(1). Does wiping data erase the internal sd?
(2). If by some stroke of bad luck a flash is unsuccessful and a boot loop or similar occurs, am I right in my understanding that you can just go straight back into recovery and re-flash?
(3). What are the chances of bricking the tablet?
Sorry for noon questions, please just wanna certain because my gf bought me this tablet under the condition I don't do anything risky like on my x10 that I flash almost daily haha
Thanks for replies
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. No, it doesn't.
2. Yes. You can do that. There's another option in mounts and storage -> format system - that will format even your system partition and leave your device bare with no ROM files on it. That would be a really clean install I guess
EDIT: I just saw that system is formatted during ROM installation. So no need to do that
3. Always read first what option you've selected and be sure you understand what it does. If you have CWM successfully installed, you have a powerfull tool to restore reflash, wipe, format etc. I've flashed my HD2 hundreds of times and now my Iconia is on the run Never ever had a boot failiure.
drkalo said:
1. No, it doesn't.
2. Yes. You can do that. There's another option in mounts and storage -> format system - that will format even your system partition and leave your device bare with no ROM files on it. That would be a really clean install I guess
3. Always read first what option you've selected and be sure you understand what it does. If you have CWM successfully installed, you have a powerfull tool to restore reflash, wipe, format etc. I've flashed my HD2 hundreds of times and now my Iconia is on the run Never ever had a boot failiure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much. I will click thanks when I'm on my computer :-D
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
VERY good information here. Thank you very much for taking the time.
I've flashed ROMS on my last two "chinatabs" but haven't gotten into it with my A500 yet. (To be frank, I'm still thrilled with the prospect of OTA updates from a manufacturer after my last experiences.)
It looks like the process is very similar to my Rena3 tablet.
strider_mt2k said:
VERY good information here. Thank you very much for taking the time.
I've flashed ROMS on my last two "chinatabs" but haven't gotten into it with my A500 yet. (To be frank, I'm still thrilled with the prospect of OTA updates from a manufacturer after my last experiences.)
It looks like the process is very similar to my Rena3 tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, that lays it out all nice and precise for us all. Like strider_mt2k, I have been holdng off on the custom ROMs, because my first tablet was a Gtab, and while it became a pretty awesome tablet, it had to be flashed with a custom ROM to be really usable. The OTA thing was holding me back. But I think that I may try to flash the thing this weekend if I get the chance.
Thanks. Glad it could be of use.
nice tutorial dude! thanks!!
could you please make another tutorial to return back to stock?
specially to return back to stock te kernel.
thanks!!!
As mentioned, best case is if you've backed up your device before flashing any ROM or Kernel. Thus you can restore to your country specific version.
Otherwise its pretty simple - its just like flashing any other ROM following the steps described.
Download the stock one that dr1337 shared from here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1154492
or choose the right full package - shared by vache:
decript it with Acer update decripter by thor2002ro
Of course they come with stock kernel
I am new in this with flashing and that kind of stuff.
Now is my question, how is it with updates from acer?
Greetz
distructor said:
How is it with updates from acer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure I understand your question. Could you be more specific?
if i put a custom rom on the device could i still use the build in update program of acer?
distructor said:
if i put a custom rom on the device could i still use the build in update program of acer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I can not tell you for sure. I haven't tried all of the custom ROMs but in most cases - no you won't be able. I've tried Tabooney, Honeyvillain, Virtuous Picasso, Virtuous Galaxy. ROM developers usually update their ROMs to the latest base available. I think it depends on many things - base, kernel, stock apps removed etc.
Maybe someone who have succeeded with custom ROM updating would share his experience.
Can anyone tell me if there is a version of ROM manager that supports the version of CWM that there is for the Iconia. I would love to be able to simplify my ability to backup my ROM's before flashing.
synapses11 said:
Can anyone tell me if there is a version of ROM manager that supports the version of CWM that there is for the Iconia. I would love to be able to simplify my ability to backup my ROM's before flashing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can install a clockworkmod for Iconia no matter of the version of ROM manager. But it is much much easier to use Acer Recovery Installer. I recommend you using it instead of playing with recovery img files. It is a one time procedure after all
Anyway - here's what you need to do if you don't want to use Acer recovery installer, or you don't want to use ADB:
http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/how-to-install-clockworkmod-recovery-3-using-rom-manager/
instead of CWM 3.x you will need to get CWM from thor2002ro In this guide you substitute the recovery that ROM Manager is about to flash with thor's CWM. I haven't tried this method myself but it should work.
With Acer Recovery Installer you can flash custom recovery as well. As long as you have it in IMG format you can be flashed from within the app - "install custom or stock recovery image from sd card".
great thread.
thanks!!!
Great Tutorial!!!
Just a couple of doubts:
First question: Backup files.
3. Flashing custom ROM
"...Before going on to install your ROM do a full backup of your system first. Navigate to "backup and restore" and then select Full Backup. Wait untill the operation completes. "
Where do the backup files go in the system? On internal or external SD card? Is it an *.img file extension?
Should i move it to my computer to keep it save, or just leave it where ever they are?
Second question: Kernel.
4. Flashing custom KERNEL
"Flashing custom kernel is as same as custom ROM. You place the zip (Kernels come in zip files as well) on your external SD card and:
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
It is recommended before flashing a new kernel to wipe cache partition and dalvik cache. And of course first you flash the ROM and then the desired Kernel"
I am on Stock 3.1 ROM with original Kernel, if i want to try Virtuos Picasso, do i have to flash a new Kernel? And if yes, shouldn't i do it before flashing the ROM? Or just flash the ROM and then the Kernel? What happens if i just flash the Rom and use the stock kernel?
Thank you..
Your backup goes to your external SD card in a folder named clockworkmod\backup\2011-XX-XX.HH.MM.SS
As you can guess the name of the backup corresponds to the time it is created. This backup can be used to restore your system through CWM in case of need.
CWM does not backup /data/media folder. Additionally: you should also delete .android_secure.img from your backup set or a full restore will fail before it restores flexrom.
The last is an issue described by Euclid's brother:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=16467191&postcount=3
I am on Stock 3.1 ROM with original Kernel, if i want to try Virtuos Picasso, do i have to flash a new Kernel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, of course! Your custom ROM (Virtuous Picasso in your example) and any ROM comes with its Kernel. Its up to you to decide wheather to change it or not after that by flashing another Kernel. Follow every Kernel developer's notes for ROM compatibility. So, that answers the last part of your question - you cannot flash Virtuous Picasso and still think you're on stock kernel
drkalo said:
No, of course! Your custom ROM (Virtuous Picasso in your example) and any ROM comes with its Kernel. Its up to you to decide wheather to change it or not after that by flashing another Kernel. Follow every Kernel developer's notes for ROM compatibility. So, that answers the last part of your question - you cannot flash Virtuous Picasso and still think you're on stock kernel
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, i see...i thought that the flashing ROM procedure of a custom ROM, would just flash the ROM and not the Kernel...so in this case i just have to choose the ROM that i want to flash and do not have to pay attention about the Kernel compatibility...unless i flash a Kernel only. Right?
Thank you very much!!
That is correct
Related
I am running Cyanogen 6.0.0-Heroc. I have been for about 6 months but it has some quirks (locks up sometimes, etc) that may be better with a newer version (I hope). Can somebody please give me very explicit step by step instructions to load a new ROM. Also can you give me a link to the newer version of this ROM.
I was scared to death when I rooted my phone and am equally fearful now. I appreciate your help.
Whoops, accidentally clicked thank
Anyway, I can only speak for what I have done. I have heard that updating to gingerbread takes a slightly different approach. (But I haven't tried it yet)
What I do:
Download the rom and put it on my sd card
Reboot into recovery
NANDROID BACKUP
wipe data/cache/factory reset
wipe davlik
wipe battery stats
flash rom
flash gapps
reboot
Flashing a rom is very easy. I suggest the app rom manager. What you do is you put the . Zip file on the root of your sd card (not in any folders) and re-name it * update* without the *. Now flash clockwork recovery mod and boot your phone into recovery mode via rom manager. It will take you into recovery mode (big surprise) now select install update.zip. this should install the mod right away. the phone will reboot and you have yourself a custom rom my friend.
READ THIS FIRST!!!
troubleshooting and other tips: i put this in because i had countless problems when i first flashed a rom...
if your .zip file won't flash because it says it isn't signed the go to options and disable the need for it to be signed.
so if you are given the option to backup your current mod i highly recomend that especialy if you aren't sure about the rom.
next i suggest getting a rom with gapps as you need that to sync your accounts. just boot to recovery mode then select an option to manually install programs or something like that. select gapps and you're gravy!
i see you need a rom update. i cannot give you the link but look for CM7 it is gingerbread and it looks classy. don't be afraid if it takes a long time to boot. that is natural. it should be in htc hero development forums.
backup everything you can. i suggest creating a folder labeled phone or sd card. copy and paste all files just in case.
if you need any more help I would be glad to help you.
Sent from my HERO200 using XDA App
pandadog11 said:
i see you need a rom update. i cannot give you the link but look for CM7 it is gingerbread and it looks classy. don't be afraid if it takes a long time to boot. that is natural. it should be in htc hero development forums.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been using that ROM, works great but GPS won't stay locked right now. It's very fast.
It doesn't get any more step-by-step than this:
http://wiki.cyanogenmod.com/index.php?title=HTC_Hero_(CDMA):_Full_Update_Guide
Can somebody update this list with the actual links to what you saying to download? I would like to give this a try, but not sure where all these links are.
Assuming you are comfortable with the issues and concepts associated with rooting (terms like bootloader, recovery and ROM's), I suggest you do the following:
1. Go to unrevoked.com and root the Incredible; also run unrevoked-forever to secure S-OFF status.
2. Go to dougpiston.com and get the latest CWM for the phone; 3.0.0.7 if it's Amoled display (Hardware version 2) or SLCD (Hardware version 3). (BTW, note that this ROM erroneously reports Amoled Incredibles as the wrong hardware version). Flash that from hboot. Remove the file from the root directory of the SD card afterwards.
3. Download the 7.07 leaked radio; download the ROM; download the updated OTA kernel from a few days ago.
4. Flash away (I would do ROM, kernel, then radio. Remember to flash dalvik/cache before flashing a kernel; and remember that the radio is flashed in hboot.)
jamala00 said:
Can somebody update this list with the actual links to what you saying to download? I would like to give this a try, but not sure where all these links are.
Assuming you are comfortable with the issues and concepts associated with rooting (terms like bootloader, recovery and ROM's), I suggest you do the following:
1. Go to unrevoked.com and root the Incredible; also run unrevoked-forever to secure S-OFF status. unrevoked.com
2. Go to dougpiston.com and get the latest CWM for the phone; 3.0.0.7 if it's Amoled display (Hardware version 2) or SLCD (Hardware version 3). (BTW, note that this ROM erroneously reports Amoled Incredibles as the wrong hardware version). Flash that from hboot. Remove the file from the root directory of the SD card afterwards. I just ran the Unrevoked tool, and CWM 2.5.1.2 was installed. I installed ROM Manager and updated to 3.0.0.8.
3. Download the 7.07 leaked radio; download the ROM; download the updated OTA kernel from a few days ago. Link is here.
4. Flash away (I would do ROM, kernel, then radio. Remember to flash dalvik/cache before flashing a kernel; and remember that the radio is flashed in hboot.) Doug Piston's site
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that what you're looking for?
EDIT: In your Step 4, when you go to Doug Piston's site for the ROM flashing tutorial, after the screen shot to "Wipe Cache Partition", I also do the following:
Mounts and Storage - format /system; format /boot; format /data
Advanced - Wipe Dalvik
Then continue on to the following screen shot on the page, with "Installing zip from SD Card".
RMarkwald said:
Is that what you're looking for?
EDIT: In your Step 4, when you go to Doug Piston's site for the ROM flashing tutorial, after the screen shot to "Wipe Cache Partition", I also do the following:
Mounts and Storage - format /system; format /boot; format /data
Advanced - Wipe Dalvik
Then continue on to the following screen shot on the page, with "Installing zip from SD Card".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me look through your links.. I have already done unrevoked and am S-OFF. I had flashed CM7 but when back to stock looking to flash that OTA that was "suppose" to come out. I'm tired of waiting and Nils ROM looks more of what I am looking for then CM7. But there just seems to be a lot more steps. I am not sure what the latest CWM means? Also not positive on which LCD screen I have.
jamala00 said:
Let me look through your links.. I have already done unrevoked and am S-OFF. I had flashed CM7 but when back to stock looking to flash that OTA that was "suppose" to come out. I'm tired of waiting and Nils ROM looks more of what I am looking for then CM7. But there just seems to be a lot more steps. I am not sure what the latest CWM means? Also not positive on which LCD screen I have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CWM is ClockworkMod Recovery, which is where you go to flash/backup ROMs. You can update it by downloading the zip and putting it onto the root of your SD card, renaming it PB31IMG.zip, booting into the bootloader (phone off, hold volume down and power buttons), and installing it that way.
You can also open ROM Manager to flash a recovery too. Easier that the PB31IMG.zip way, but they both get the same thing done. If you have an SLCD screen and you have the wrong recovery, when you go into recovery the screen will be black with two white lines down the sides, from what I remember.
RMarkwald said:
CWM is ClockworkMod Recovery, which is where you go to flash/backup ROMs. You can update it by downloading the zip and putting it onto the root of your SD card, renaming it PB31IMG.zip, booting into the bootloader (phone off, hold volume down and power buttons), and installing it that way.
You can also open ROM Manager to flash a recovery too. Easier that the PB31IMG.zip way, but they both get the same thing done. If you have an SLCD screen and you have the wrong recovery, when you go into recovery the screen will be black with two white lines down the sides, from what I remember.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AH.... .. OK... Don't know why I didn't catch that CWM... I think I have what I need, hopefully tonight after work I can try this out. If I recall I can see what LCD I have by the model number of the phone... I'll google that quick.
Ok so from what I am reading CWM 3x is not required for flashing ROMs on the Inc... I have it installed but it is version 2.x.. Do I have to have version 3x to flash Nil's 3.0 ROM?
It's not, well not necessarily...but for the 2.1/3.0 Sense ROMs ClockworkMod Recovery does need to be at 3.x.
You can go here to download 3.0.0.8, rename it to PB31IMG.zip, put it on the root of the SD card, and with phone powered off hold down volume down + power buttons to get to HBOOT and flash it that way.
There may be a flashable zip for this somewhere to update, but doing this through HBOOT is pretty simple too.
RMarkwald said:
It's not, well not necessarily...but for the 2.1/3.0 Sense ROMs ClockworkMod Recovery does need to be at 3.x.
You can go here to download 3.0.0.8, rename it to PB31IMG.zip, put it on the root of the SD card, and with phone powered off hold down volume down + power buttons to get to HBOOT and flash it that way.
There may be a flashable zip for this somewhere to update, but doing this through HBOOT is pretty simple too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thx.. but can you tell me how I know which screen I have so I do not install the wrong version? From what I am reading there is a version for AMOLED and SLCD??
Forget it.. I see it is for both 3.0.0.8.. thx...!!
jamala00 said:
thx.. but can you tell me how I know which screen I have so I do not install the wrong version? From what I am reading there is a version for AMOLED and SLCD??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The green text of version 2.5.1.2 will change to orange for 3.0.0.8.
Got it.. thx...!! Ok just one more question I think.. In step 3
3. Download the 7.07 leaked radio; download the ROM; download the updated OTA kernel from a few days ago. Link is here.
If I go to your link that is the link for the OTA 7.07 Radio. The ROM I know where to get, but what about the kernel? Does that link install both the radio and the kernel? and then I just need the ROM?
jamala00 said:
Got it.. thx...!! Ok just one more question I think.. In step 3
3. Download the 7.07 leaked radio; download the ROM; download the updated OTA kernel from a few days ago. Link is here.
If I go to your link that is the link for the OTA 7.07 Radio. The ROM I know where to get, but what about the kernel? Does that link install both the radio and the kernel? and then I just need the ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're running a GingerSense ROM (NilsP's Ginger Business Sense is), then go here. The thread for this is here. It's a zip file, you flash in CWM like you did the ROM. Wipe Cache and Wipe Dalvik before flashing a kernel.
If you're running a Froyo 2.2 Sense ROM, you'll need a Sense kernel. An AOSP ROM needs an AOSP kernel. Kernel threads will tell you what version of Android it is compatible with. Flashing an AOSP to Sense won't work, and vice versa. I ran Tiny's Beta5 kernel with NilsP's ROM (here), and it worked great.
The radio link is only for the radio, so it only installs the radio. The kernel link/thread I am linking you to here is for only the GingerSense kernel, compatible with 2.3 GingerSense ROMs.
OK, I think I have it then. I was going to flash Nils •Nils Business GingerSense 3.0 so the link you provided for the kernel should be the one I need right? I have CWM 3.0.0.8 flashed now. I have the correct HBOOT, I also downloaded the OTA Radio, so I think I have everything I need.
One last question if you don't mind... If I use CWM to backup my current system, does it backup, (ROM, radio, and kernel) or if I wanted to go back at anytime would I have to flash the radio and kernel seperate? Have not used CWM to do backup and restore yet.
jamala00 said:
OK, I think I have it then. I was going to flash Nils •Nils Business GingerSense 3.0 so the link you provided for the kernel should be the one I need right? I have CWM 3.0.0.8 flashed now. I have the correct HBOOT, I also downloaded the OTA Radio, so I think I have everything I need.
One last question if you don't mind... If I use CWM to backup my current system, does it backup, (ROM, radio, and kernel) or if I wanted to go back at anytime would I have to flash the radio and kernel seperate? Have not used CWM to do backup and restore yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that link is the download for the kernel zip file. It'll prompt you to save it somewhere.
A ROM backup backs up the entire ROM and kernel, radio doesn't get backed up as it is completely separate from the ROM/kernel. Don't need to back up the radio. So if you needed to restore a backup, you'd do the wiping of user data and everything like you do before flashing a new ROM. Then when you go to Backup and Restore - Restore, you select your backup, and it brings it back to the point you made the backup (ROM and kernel).
So keep up to date backups, as if you have say a two month old backup that you'd restore, any texts/app info would restore to the point the two month old backup was made. Does that make sense?
Yep... thx for all the info and taking the time...
No problem! Glad to help!
just curious... do you know if the Clock App that is in the stock Android 2.2... Is that still in Nil's ROM? I had tried CM7 and it was not in there. I use that app all the time, so was just curious if it is in there. I like the Time, Alarm, Timer, Stopwatch all in the same App...
I believe it is, since the ROM uses HTC Sense. It also has the HTC Clock widget.
Hi, just enquiring can I install a 3.2 custom rooted rom over a stock 3.1 rooted rom? Or do I need to flash stock 3.2 as a base first?
Ash
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
-You don't need a base.
-On Custom ROM (you will Never Get a ACER OTA Update, you will not have ACER's Stock Recovery)
If on HC v3.1 STOCK (non rooted) You'll need to :
1. Download IconiaRoot 1.3.apk http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=648570&d=1310086702
2. Use any file Explorer (like ES File explorer) to install IconiaRoot. Root Tablet with this program (realize you are voiding warrenty)
3. from Market, download "Acer Recovery installer" Then run this app to install "ClockworkMod Recovery v1.34" (which will need ROOT to install CWM)
-Optional: Update to "CWM Recovery v1.6v2.zip" (later) http://www.mediafire.com/?idkrgvv22463v2d
If on ANY (rooted) ROM:
Reboot into CWM Recovery MOD : [Volume Down] + [POWER] long press.
(A) Backup and Restore -> Full Backup ->
(B) Wipe Menu -> Wipe... Cache, data (factory reset), dalvik-cache, battery stats
(C) Mounts and Storage Menu -> Format... System, data, cache, flexrom
(D) Install from Zip File -> Choose Zip File from SD Card -> {any ROM.zip, Superuser.zip, CWM Recovery v1.6v2.zip, etc}
(E) Reboot System.
***Read up on Custom ROM thread before you begin.
***Consult that custom ROM thread for Q+A
Thanks, i'm already running stock rooted 3.1. I don't care about the ota updates as they never worked from the start. I just add them manually anyway.
I'm asking about custom roms in general.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
me_ashman said:
Thanks, i'm already running stock rooted 3.1. I don't care about the ota updates as they never worked from the start. I just add them manually anyway.
I'm asking about custom roms in general.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To answer your question, no you do NOT need anything special and yes you can just flash over anything your want. Flashing in a ROM is like installing Windows on PC with installer CD's. Anything on your computer is gone, just like installing a custom ROM.
Hope this helps,
TD
timmyDean said:
To answer your question, no you do NOT need anything special and yes you can just flash over anything your want. Flashing in a ROM is like installing Windows on PC with installer CD's. Anything on your computer is gone, just like installing a custom ROM.
Hope this helps,
TD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This couldnt be more wrong.
First of all, you can upgrade windows and keep everything. If i'm running vista and have a 7 upgrade disk, i dont lose everything.
Second, different roms are designed for different things. You can flash stock 3.2 over stock 3.1 without a wipe and it will work just fine. You cant flash flexstriker over epiphany over thora rom over stock and expect it to work. You cam flash flexstriker r7 over flexstriker r6, but not over another rom.
You dont have to lose everything, dont listen to this guy.
nifterific said:
This couldnt be more wrong.
First of all, you can upgrade windows and keep everything. If i'm running vista and have a 7 upgrade disk, i dont lose everything.
Second, different roms are designed for different things. You can flash stock 3.2 over stock 3.1 without a wipe and it will work just fine. You cant flash flexstriker over epiphany over thora rom over stock and expect it to work. You cam flash flexstriker r7 over flexstriker r6, but not over another rom.
You dont have to lose everything, dont listen to this guy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The question was flashing not upgrading. So don't read into it. He's asking if he needs a certain base to load a custom ROM. That answer is NO.
You are reading to much into it.
Thanks guys, I've got it figured now.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
timmyDean said:
The question was flashing not upgrading. So don't read into it. He's asking if he needs a certain base to load a custom ROM. That answer is NO.
You are reading to much into it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Upgrades are flashed.
nifterific said:
Upgrades are flashed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No they are not. Not trying to make an argument here, so do not take it as one.
When you get an update, it replaces the boot.img and then runs scripts to update the system image. This is not normally considered a flash. Flashing, normally means using nvflash to load a ROM or image wiping the tablet totally clean.
If you mean that an update replaces the boot.img and the blob therefore it's a flash, then ok. But still the system image is only updated via scripts. This is how we hack an update.zip. We change the update scripts to add root and then re-zip it; therefore the update actually adds root.
Hope this helps clear things up, and remember we're all in this together so keep your stick on the ice.
Hey guys, I'm new to XDA and I have a few questions needed to be answered if you don't mind .
So an "official" ICS leak came out not too long ago, and tonight I tried installing it on my a500. By "it" I mean the stock leak for unrooted devices. Problem is, it's not working.
Long story short, I Googled like crazy looking for answers to these questions, and I found no specific answers anywhere from Iconia users, only by people with Droid phones.
I need to know the answers for
1) Can I install the stock version ICS from my internal SD card? If so, how?
2) How do I do this without rooting my device?
3) After renaming the download to "update.zip", as some have said, do I first extract the contents then place them in a folder called update.zip, or leave it as is and rename the large file?
In the end, I renamed the file to "Update.zip" without extraction, then reboot my device in recovery mode. The green Droid came on, then a warning sign, and nothing happened. How do I boot the ICS?
Sorry if this seems like a lot, I barely know any of the technical aspects of this stuff!
must be on externel SD with stock recovery.
same thing happend to me. I found out that my pc named the zip update.zip.zip, i used file explore on my 500 and took of the extra .zip and flashed it. And it worked perfectly.
0) You shouldn't have messed with this without first understand exactly what and how you do it. There's a really BIG STOP sign in the thread. Read the thread first to avoid bricking your device. Everything is here, so you don't have to "google like crazy".
To your questions:
1) No. You need an external SD for your stock recovery to flash the update.zip
2) Copy update.zip to the ROOT of your external SD card, power off, then power on, while holding Volume DOWN key
3) You should not extract the archive.
About root - it's a nice thingy - you are able to install a custom recovery in order to BACKUP your current firmware. Then you can flash one of the 4 custom ICS ROMs that will keep your recovery safe and not overwrite it. Actually you can flash very easily any custom a500 ROM with a custom recovery.
Now, try to flash again by using an external SD, if it still doesn't boot, try to hard reset the device (tutorial on how to hard reset - in my signature - in the revert to 3.0.1 thread)
If it still doesn't boot, read this thread on how to recover your tab:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1516012
Good luck.
drkalo said:
0) You shouldn't have messed with this without first understand exactly what and how you do it. There's a really BIG STOP sign in the thread. Read the thread first to avoid bricking your device. Everything is here, so you don't have to "google like crazy".
To your questions:
1) No. You need an external SD for your stock recovery to flash the update.zip
2) Copy update.zip to the ROOT of your external SD card, power off, then power on, while holding Volume DOWN key
3) You should not extract the archive.
About root - it's a nice thingy - you are able to install a custom recovery in order to BACKUP your current firmware. Then you can flash one of the 4 custom ICS ROMs that will keep your recovery safe and not overwrite it. Actually you can flash very easily any custom a500 ROM with a custom recovery.
Now, try to flash again by using an external SD, if it still doesn't boot, try to hard reset the device (tutorial on how to hard reset - in my signature - in the revert to 3.0.1 thread)
If it still doesn't boot, read this thread on how to recover your tab:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1516012
Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The above could not have been said any better by anyone. EXACT TRUTH.
i just want to add this is a leak for the a500 . I do not think i would call it official.Also Remember Its yet to be known of the procedure you will have to fallow to accept the RELEASE IF I C S from acer in April (when they say anyway)
Thou from the past i can nearly guarantee you there will be a way. But could require you to downgrade root and flash one of the many ics cwm roms..as in the post above mine signature
drkalo said:
0) You shouldn't have messed with this without first understand exactly what and how you do it. There's a really BIG STOP sign in the thread. Read the thread first to avoid bricking your device. Everything is here, so you don't have to "google like crazy".
To your questions:
1) No. You need an external SD for your stock recovery to flash the update.zip
2) Copy update.zip to the ROOT of your external SD card, power off, then power on, while holding Volume DOWN key
3) You should not extract the archive.
About root - it's a nice thingy - you are able to install a custom recovery in order to BACKUP your current firmware. Then you can flash one of the 4 custom ICS ROMs that will keep your recovery safe and not overwrite it. Actually you can flash very easily any custom a500 ROM with a custom recovery.
Now, try to flash again by using an external SD, if it still doesn't boot, try to hard reset the device (tutorial on how to hard reset - in my signature - in the revert to 3.0.1 thread)
If it still doesn't boot, read this thread on how to recover your tab:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1516012
Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! This all makes sense. However, there remains something unclear to me. If I have to use an external SD to boot a leaked ROM, how/where does the OTA update install from on my internal sd card? Can't I just place this ROM where the OTA usually loads from and run recovery after that? Thanks in advance
austin148 said:
Thanks! This all makes sense. However, there remains something unclear to me. If I have to use an external SD to boot a leaked ROM, how/where does the OTA update install from on my internal sd card? Can't I just place this ROM where the OTA usually loads from and run recovery after that? Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The way you can flash it yourself (stock recovery: Vol down + power) requires an external SD. You don't have access to your internal storage by using stock recovery and there's no "key combo" you can use to do that. Once you install custom recovery, you'll be able to flash from Internal memory as well (thor's does, still haven't used RA recovery and don't know about it).
...But in order to install custom recovery, you need root. Custom recovery allows you to make full backups of your currently running FW + app data. If you're still on Honeycomb I recommend you get an external SD and go for the method 2 downgrade procedure and root it or go for timmyDean's procedure that installs rooted stock 3.2.1 ROM on your device (says it does need an external SD so it might be your choice), then install CWM and voila - you're in control and you can wipe your tab and install whatever cusom ROM you like....and you backup first of course
If you don't feel like messing with your tab's system, then wait a little more for ACER to release ICS OTA update.
Got ICS, OTA (download) installed that no problem, downloaded the acer usb drivers and used ICS Root (blackthund3r). Now i want to install LightSpeed 4.4 (i know theres a newer version) I renamed it update.zip and did the power button + V- button but it says invalid image.
Now im a bit confused cause all this android stuff is new to me, I have the acer recovery installed but im not sure what to do with it. Tried renaming it to recovery.img it says it is flashing but nothing happens.
Kinda lost at what to do or how to get this rom working.... if someone could point me in the right direction it would be sweet
Fox
foxorroxors said:
I renamed it update.zip and did the power button + V- button but it says invalid image.
Fox
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. That was pretty n00b of ya (that little trick only works on signed official roms, and even then, only ify-ify)
Check this thread. It has the tools you need.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
You can skip the part about installing an ICS rom and rooting. You already did that. You need to do steps 1, 2, (partial 4) 5 or 6 basically.
Note after you rooted. Look at step 4 and delete the required file like it says, before going to steps 5 or 6. You have an option on which package to use. Personally, I like the exe package. But your choice.
This installs patched b-loader and CWM recovery so you can flash ICS only Roms.
Easy
As you've Acer Recovery why the difficult way ? Just choose "Download / Install Roms, tick Lightspeed 4.4 in the left column, hit download and then install.
(i've version 2.74)
Fast, easy and no problems. I flashed Flexreaper 14 (now replaced by Flexreaper ICS RF1) and i can recommend it, the Rom and the way of flashing it.
urbie47 said:
As you've Acer Recovery why the difficult way ? Just choose "Download / Install Roms, tick Lightspeed 4.4 in the left column, hit download and then install.
(i've version 2.74)
Fast, easy and no problems. I flashed Flexreaper 14 (now replaced by Flexreaper ICS RF1) and i can recommend it, the Rom and the way of flashing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Acer recovery is fine if it'll install the patched Bootloader.
However, it doesn't make a user get his UID number, which is essential in case something happens in the future. Without your UID, you're basically toasted Or you're in for the long haul in figuring out how to unbrick a tab.
help
I need help for boot loader.I tried to put ICS boot loader v3, I didn't success and now I can't put another rom(I have ICS for A500 but I use A501 and it doesn't work 3G modem).How I can put other rom?
Erasing cache before SD update...
SD update cmd recovery
--update_package=SDCARD:update.zip
Booting recovery kernel image
Recovery verified failed...
ores992 said:
I need help for boot loader.I tried to put ICS boot loader v3, I didn't success and now I can't put another rom(I have ICS for A500 but I use A501 and it doesn't work 3G modem).How I can put other rom?
Erasing cache before SD update...
SD update cmd recovery
--update_package=SDCARD:update.zip
Booting recovery kernel image
Recovery verified failed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't run that update.zip like you did. You got the error message.
Can you still boot into the 500 Rom? If so, you need to install a CWM Recovery before you can flash custom Roms. Look at the link below for instructions for CWM installation.
If you can't boot into your System, then you will need to do everything again.
You should still have your UID number when you tried to NVFlash the ver3 bootloader (I hope you wrote that number down)
You need to probably re-install the ver3 bootloader again as your attempt to install an update.zip messed things up. You just can't do it that way. So go here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1622425
Only this time, follow the instructions. You need to install CWM recovery. This is how to flash Roms, not putting update.zips on the SD card. And BTW, you should delete that update.zip from Your EXT SD Card. It will cause problems.
Also note, in those instructions, if you installed the FULL 500 ROM, you must delete a certain boot-p file before you install CWM Recovery. Or else it will delete it when you reboot the tab. Again, read the instructions.
The above steps install a 500 rom. The 500 DOES NOT have 3g like a 501. This is why you had no 3g. You have to install a 501 ICS Rom after, through CWM Recovery, and, currently, I have the only ICS Rom for the 501. And... it's a Beta release from Acer. But it works ok mostly.
Read the instructions, and understand exactly what you are doing. Also remember, with ver3 ICS Bootloader, YOU CANNOT INSTALL HC BASED ROMS without going back to an HC based bootloader. ICS Roms only. (unless you want to go back to stock).
Moscow Desire said:
You can't run that update.zip like you did. You got the error message.
Can you still boot into the 500 Rom? If so, you need to install a CWM Recovery before you can flash custom Roms. Look at the link below for instructions for CWM installation.
If you can't boot into your System, then you will need to do everything again.
You should still have your UID number when you tried to NVFlash the ver3 bootloader (I hope you wrote that number down)
You need to probably re-install the ver3 bootloader again as your attempt to install an update.zip messed things up. You just can't do it that way. So go here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1622425
Only this time, follow the instructions. You need to install CWM recovery. This is how to flash Roms, not putting update.zips on the SD card. And BTW, you should delete that update.zip from Your EXT SD Card. It will cause problems.
Also note, in those instructions, if you installed the FULL 500 ROM, you must delete a certain boot-p file before you install CWM Recovery. Or else it will delete it when you reboot the tab. Again, read the instructions.
The above steps install a 500 rom. The 500 DOES NOT have 3g like a 501. This is why you had no 3g. You have to install a 501 ICS Rom after, through CWM Recovery, and, currently, I have the only ICS Rom for the 501. And... it's a Beta release from Acer. But it works ok mostly.
Read the instructions, and understand exactly what you are doing. Also remember, with ver3 ICS Bootloader, YOU CANNOT INSTALL HC BASED ROMS without going back to an HC based bootloader. ICS Roms only. (unless you want to go back to stock).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but that link is dead
ores992 said:
Thanks, but that link is dead
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, XDA did some cleaning up overnight. Try it now;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
MD