Database Users

the abc's of vibrant rom flashing?

I came from a g1 (just flashed things willy nilly without worrying) and am very cautious about flashing my vibrant. all i have done is rooted and applied oclf. I also flashed the stock lock screen. I have been reading the threads for many roms and it seems flashing on the vibrant isn't quite the same as the g1. what should i know about kernels and flashing back to stock? also what do i need to know about odin?
btw, my vibrant is not hardware locked.

I came from the same place, I've been reading threads for a while so let me see if I can help you out, at least a little.
When doing a nandroid backup disable any lag fix.
When flashing a ROM disable any lag fix.
When you flash a ROM it doesn't flash your kernel, so you need to be extremely careful to also flash a kernel if needed, otherwise you may be stuck at the Vibrant screen. Be especially careful if you're messing with Froyo here.
You can find lots of ODIN guides. I've only used ODIN once to flash back to stock and I haven't had any problems. Odin Guide.
When using ODIN lots of people have had troubles when they click the repartition check mark. I personally don't know much about it, but just be sure to read threads thoroughly
I think that's the gist of it.... I'm sure others have lots more to add.
Also: this thread has pretty much EVERYTHING

rbirg said:
I came from the same place, I've been reading threads for a while so let me see if I can help you out, at least a little.
When doing a nandroid backup disable any lag fix.
When flashing a ROM disable any lag fix.
When you flash a ROM it doesn't flash your kernel, so you need to be extremely careful to also flash a kernel if needed, otherwise you may be stuck at the Vibrant screen. Be especially careful if you're messing with Froyo here.
You can find lots of ODIN guides. I've only used ODIN once to flash back to stock and I haven't had any problems. Odin Guide.
When using ODIN lots of people have had troubles when they click the repartition check mark. I personally don't know much about it, but just be sure to read threads thoroughly
I think that's the gist of it.... I'm sure others have lots more to add.
Also: this thread has pretty much EVERYTHING
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks! 10char

is it really worth flashing a rom (like bionix (sp?)) or should i wait until cyanogenmod or the official froyo are is released?

Just a few clarifications:
Clockwork flashable ROMs can & usually do contain kernels. It's when backing up/restoring a nandroid backup that the kernel is not included, so always be sure that you have a compatible kernel to flash along with your restore if necessary.
If you are *not* hardware locked then your phone is virtually unbrickable provided you learn how to use Odin effectively. As far as repartitioning in Odin goes, AFAIK the reason it usually causes problems is that many Odin flashable images do not contain the partitioning data. The stock JFD tar does however.
Even if you are hardware locked I believe a flashable fix has finally been discovered. I can't vouch for its efficacy as I never needed it but others have confirmed it works. I'd link to the thread but I'm just too lazy right now to look for it. A quick browse or search of the forum should find it anyway if anyone needs it.

gonintendo said:
is it really worth flashing a rom (like bionix (sp?)) or should i wait until cyanogenmod or the official froyo are is released?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recommend you use Haykuro's newest SPL when installing bionix and be careful when getting into the splash screen.
Ha ha just kidding nothing to worry about with Vibrants :]
But I do recommend Bionix, there is not THAT much advantages from stock ROM but you do get rid of all bloatware, phone is snappier, and also themed. But you don't lose anything by trying. And yes make sure to disable, and please MAKE SURE you disable Voodoo lag fix, that is the only fix you should disable before making a Nandroid Backup or flashing a new ROM.

[UPDATED] [17/06/12] Rooting, Recovery, Custom ROMs and Troubleshoot!

Okay, so I read many new threads daily regarding how to root, about custom ROMs and everything so I thought I would just start this thread where we all could share what all we know. Something like FAQs for SGN. Without further delay, let's start.
1. What is rooting? Is it dangerous?
A. “Rooting” your device means obtaining “superuser” rights and permissions to your Android phone. When rooted, the user can run various apps that require root permissions to run and also, it allows the user to install custom ROMs or to flash various kernels, overclocking or underclocking the device etc.
Rooting is NOT dangerous. There are guides available here on XDA on how to root and they are pretty easy, straightforward and risk free.
The only disadvantage of rooting is that it voids your warranty but you can easily unroot your phone to get the warranty back.
2. How to root?
A. Pretty easy! Dr Ketan has created this very very simple guide on how to root. You can find it here.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1329360
Don't forget to thank him!
Easiest method in my opinion is to flash a pre rooted stock ROM through PC Odin.
3. How do I unroot?
It's mentioned in the guide above.
4. What is recovery?
A. Recovery refers to the dedicated, bootable partition that has the recovery console installed. A combination of key presses will boot your phone to recovery, where you can find tools to help repair (recover) your installation as well as install official OS updates. Now because Android is open and has the recovery source code available, building a customized version with more and different options is relatively easy as well.
5. ClockWorkMod Recovery??? How do I install it?
A. CWM, as it is generally called, is a custom recovery for Android. It offers many more options than those offered by the stock recovery and it's generally used to flash custom ROMs.
Installing CWM on your phone is dead simple. Again, thanks to Dr Ketan for his awesome guide. Here you go.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1329360
6. What is a custom ROM?
A. A custom ROM is a fully standalone version of the OS, including the kernel (which makes everything run), apps, services, etc - everything you need to operate the device, except it's customized by someone in some way.
Since Android is open source, developers are free to pick up the stock ROMs and modify them the way they like. As simple as that!
7. So how do I decide which is the best custom ROM?
A. There in no best custom ROM as such. Different ROMs have different advantages and disadvantages. Some give you incredible speed, some give you battery, some are better looking and so on. You have to decide what works best for you.
8. Do I really need to install a custom ROM or is stock good enough?
A. Ask yourself! Personally, I feel stock is crap. Also, there are many ROMs that offer stock experience whilst removing everything that makes the stock ROM crap.
9. Can I brick my phone while installing custom ROMs?
A. Yes and no. While it's pretty hard to actually brick a phone, it's possible. Use the CORRECT files and follow the steps as mentioned by the developer. But, as I said, it's highly unlikely that you'll end up with a bricked phone.
10. Okay, so I am ready to install a custom ROM. I know the risks and everything. How do I install it?
A. First of all, you need your phone to be rooted and you also need to have a recovery, like CWM. Now, different ROMs have difference installation procedures so I advice you to just read their respective threads thoroughly, know more about the ROM, decide if it's good enough and follow what the developer says. Use the CORRECT files.
Also, whatever you do, make sure you make backups of your current system through CWM. If ever something goes wrong, these backups will help you restore to your previous system.
Go on, it should all be easy!
Edit: Do not make Nandroid backups in CWM when on LPY, LPF, i9220 repack or other unsafe kernels. There's a very high risk of bricking your phone. Read the stickies!
11. What is Overclocking/Underclocking?
A. Simply put, overclocking is the process of increasing the clock frequency of your phone's processor. Underclocking is decreasing the frequency. It basically makes the processor run faster/slower according to what you set it for.
12. Risks of OC?
A.
Overclocking reduces the lifespan of the hardware of your phone.
It's possible to incurr permanent damage to the phone's compenets by OC.
Overclocking voids the warranty of your phone, but rooting has already done that!
13. Should I overclock?
A. Personally I think there is no use of OC except to fry off your processor and get higher quadrant score (which doesn't mean anything really!). With all these phones with fast processors, OC is less necessary.
14. How to overclock?
A. You need a kernel that supports overclocking. Like franco's kernel supports OC I think. Then you need an application (like SetCPU, No Frills CPU etc) to OC your device. Sometimes, OC options are built into a custom ROM as well.
15. I've had enough of rooting and custom ROMs. I need to go back. What do I do?
A. The easiest way to go back to stock ROM is to just simply flash any of the unrooted stock ROMs through PC Odin. As simple as that. Refer to Dr Ketan's guide for this.
16. What is an unsafe kernel?
A. Most stock ICS kernels are affected by the emmc bug, popularly known as the brick bug. The official CM9 kernels and some new other kernels are although free from this.
17. F***! I am on an unsafe kernel. What to do?
A. You should actually firstly know what not to do and than what to do. DO NOT wipe data in CWM, DO NOT factory reset your phone through either recovery or the Settings Menu and DO NOT delete big files from your internal or maybe even external memory. This heavy R/W operations triggers the brick bug and most often leaves the phone as useful as a paperweight.
Now, what should you be doing? If you're not gonna do any of the above, you're most probably as safe as those on a safe kernel. If you wanna get rid of this emmc bug altogether, you have to firstly go back to GB, use PC Odin method as stated above and then flash any of the new ROMs with safe kernels, read the dev section.
18. I wiped my data previously on an unsafe kernel and now my phone wouldn't boot up. I tried going back to stock GB with the PC Odin method but I'm stuck at "factoryfys.img". OMG! I can't even breathe now.. HELP!!!!
A. Superbrick. Yes, that's the word. Unfortunately, your phone is now bricked and only Samsung could help you now. Or if you're comfortable you can read and watch the DIY guides to replace the affected parts (motherboard).
So, this is all what I could think of at the moment. If you have any more Q&A that could help others, do add them!
Hope this helps..

Good one bro! It should help most of the folks out there! And quench many repeated questions

Thanks man!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA

sujal said:
Thanks man!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its better to hit the thanks button than posting a post of thanks LOL
Cheers!! Enjoy your Note!!

Like that!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA

By the way, I was wondering if the moderators could make this thread a sticky. Possible?
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA

Just Arrived
I am a burnt newbie. I tried to install a ROM from RootGalaxyNote that seemed perfect. A week later, after getting it back from MobileTechVideo and a full JTAG repair, I laid back on everything. Then I ran across Philz. Love what this guy does. Rooted the kernel MobileTech installed, and installed the Rom I'm using now, SweetROM V2.5. Hope this posts as I am 7 away from being able to talk to the"Big Boys".

Choosing a Kernal for your phone
I looked through PhilZ-cwm6 - Safe Stock Based Kernel but couldn't find anything that matches my kernal version. I honestly do not know where to ask so I hope you don't mind me asking you for your help. What kernal version do I download if this is my phone details:
Model number:
GT-N7000
Android version:
4.1.2
Baseband version:
N7000WELSA
Kernel version:
3.0.31-906371
[email protected]#3
SMP PREEMPT Mon Feb 18 15:19:46 KST 2013
Build number:
JZO54K.N7000UBLSF

You can try the XXLSA or XXLT4.

Helpful info on ICS, GB, Bricks, Flashing etc... ! Trying to Sum Up !

I am writing this because I know nobody has the time to go through all the threads.
People don't use the SEARCH button (there is no alternative to that..neither my rant here)
So tried to sum up all that I can here. Do let know below in comments if anything else is to be added or removed.​I urge everyone to go through this complete post and I am sure you will find something interesting or something worth for you. If not then I am sorry for your 5 mins wasted !!
For all the members who are about to get their hands dirty or are already in the dirty waters! Welcome!
Just make yourself double sure that you are here and you are comfortable about playing with your device. Be okay with bricking it (yeah had to say this because whining and pointing fingers at others is not acceptable here)
Please avoid asking questions about rooting and stock roms in a particular rom thread. Let there be talk about that rom development and not rooting.
You want to root your device. Here you go – Rooting Guide by Dr Ketan
You want stock Roms – Here you go – Stock Roms by Dr Ketan again
You want Stock Prerooted Roms – Here you go – Stock Odex Prerooted Roms by Bodivas
PS - If you are using the Prerooted Stock Roms from the above link then after PC ODIN flash of the stock rom of your choice just download the corresponding CF Root Kernel (i.e. if you flashed LC1 Rom, download LC1 CF-Root kernel) and flash it through Mobile Odin to inject CWMR. Done.
You want all the Safe kernels - Here you go - [ICS][GB] Kernel Repository
So you are now rooted. Now as per Samsung your warranty is now void. Congrats. Remember you only did it and you only wanted it. So cheers!! Pour yourself and me a beer
Now go flash any GB custom rom you like choosing from here – GT N7000 Development Thread
Okay remember to read the changelog and the Features. Don’t crib for the features that are not included. You don’t like the rom and features move on. Don’t curse the developer for it.
Very Famous Example- asking for touchwiz features like SMemo, SPen gestures in APOKP/AOSP roms. Blasts on your way. Better reading about them here by Chasmodo - Flash ICS and Survive
Who wants GB now. All wants the cool IceCream!
Okay so WAIT.
Now remember there are much serious repercussions in getting to ICS than doing all the above stuff with GB.
Here this is to be read very first – Hard Bricking Kernels Public Announcement by Entropy
NEVER perform any sort of WIPE or FACTORY RESET when on Stock ICS Kernel/Rom (rooted or non-rooted)
DO NOT try to go to any CM9 or CM10 based rom from the Samsung ICS rom/kernel. Sure shot BRICK.(those who haven't got bricked by doing this consider your self lucky...huh) Best way is to - Go to GB > root > then flash any CM9 based rom.​
Only These roms are termed completely safe till now and are build on safe kernels till the time Samsung doesn’t release the source code and we have plethora of kernels like in GB.(will keep adding to the list)
CM9 Nightlies
Asylum ICS
MIUI
ParanoidAndroid
HALF-ILLUSION
All other ROMs that are based on the CM9 source.(info about it in the OP of each ROM thread...must read always)
The stock ICS roms which are on custom kernels like Franco / Speedmod etc which have MMC_CAP_ERASE command disabled.
There are many ROMs in the dev section which are based on LPY kernel. They too work perfect but still have the volatility and the warnings applied as the LPY is not that safe. So flash on your own risk and don't pester the Devs of those roms about question of safety and security. Read the above Public Announcement and decide which way you want to go!
Now some more info. Always before doing any of the flashing
Check your current kernel from
Settings > About Phone > Kernel Version .
Do NOT flash from the following kernels:
i9220ZCLP1
i9220ZCLP5
i9220ZCLP6
N7000XXLPY
Some most asked questions.
Q1 –Man m already on one of these kernels. Now waaahhhat?
Don’t panic. If you are on the rom which includes any of these kernels then refrain from flashing anything in the CWM. If the rom you are on presently is good for you just be there and don’t go on experimenting on the unsafe kernels. Wait for the stable safe kernls to come out.
Or
Switch to any of the above safe roms.
Before going to any of the safe roms go back to stock GB. Use PC Odin.
Here we have another complication. Check this thread. LPY to GB via PC Odin = super brick? This might be the fix of these Superbricks - Here
Now best way is always PC odin. And it still is unless your EMMC is not already damaged by using the wipe function . Check Here Above case happened to some users but most of the users whent back successfully. Now always remember to use PC odin when you have installed all the drivers. If you use Windows 7 PC then always check for the Online Searching for Drivers in the notification bar on your PC. This should be stopped or completed before doing any PC odin activity.
IMP - You can use Mobile Odin. But make sure first that the rom you are on and using the Mobile Odin that is having complete root by pasting any file in the root folder which is /system (use any file explorer with root privileges)
Once on GB, root it. If you going for the Pre Rooted Stock Roms remember you will have to inject the CWM using the CF Root zip from Chainfire’s thread for any subsequent flashing you want to do or use Mobile Odin (remember to check complete root status before using it)
Q2 - I am already on CM9 or Asylum or MIUI can I try the stock ICS German release?
Sure you can try but with no CWM. It sucks so recommendation is don’t try. Be on the safe roms and wait. And I bet they are much better and smoother than the stock. There are some cases of bricks with LPY having root when flashing in CWM or doing intensive I/O tasks.
There is no reported harm to flash ics without cf root(stock kernel + root no cwm) Check the Official ICS Flashing guide by Dr ketan again (Man this guy helps the Note community a lot )
Q3 – Man I am on GB and it sucks. I want ICS.
GB doesn’t suck in this case. At least you have your device working. If you are not comfortable enough with all the cautions and thin lines to tread its better to stay on GB a little longer. If you daring enough go tread on the lines of ICS but don’t cry over the brick you might achieve if you are not careful enough.
Q4 – I cant paste into /system folder nor can change DPI.
You have lost root. Kindly PC ODIN (only and only PC Odin) back to GB and then get it rooted (or flash pre rooted rom then inject CWM or use mobile odin now after flashing the pre rooted rom) and then flash the ICS rom of your choice (better stick to the safe ones…if not your wish)
Q5 – Am Senior Member I Know my way in and out and daring enough to tinker. All Warnings Applied
So you don’t want the Odin back to GB. Well then you have the Abyss Note 4.2 Kernel with Redpill Touch recovery. You are on any unsafe kernel ICS Rom and you want to go to safe rom then do one last CWM flash of Abyss kernel reboot recovery and then flash the safe roms. This keeps your root intact. You can even acieve root though this if you have lost it. Just flash Abyss 4.2 go to GB. Check root there and then flash the ICS rom. No need of repack. If any of this gets struck or brick then you know your way out already…..you told that in the question. My little guide here. Link for Abyss 4.2 Kernel in the guide.
Q6 - Most asked in the rom threads – I want the LP5 and LP6 modems. Here please.
Q7 - I want to go to LPF or whatever stock kernel ICS. And is it safe?
PLEASE dont go that route. Better stay on GB or root it and flash any of the CM9 kernel based rom. Please humble request!! :angel: Ask why in the comments if you don't get it by reading all the info in this post.
Q8 - The ICS source code is out. Where are the new kernels?
Yeah the SGN ICS sources are out. Check HERE
Wait for the developers to wield their magic and you will have the awesome kernels out for you in no time! Patience is the key
Q9 - I seriously want the safe CM9 kernel. Where is it?
Search for it in the CM9 thread. But i know many of you wont do that. So just to make this OP a lil more lengthy and one stop kind of shop m attaching the file below. Thanks Xplodwild. Flash the extracted zImage using mobile odin. Its a safe kernel so you can use its CWM anytime you want.I cant say with what all roms it will work. Might break some features in some roms so flash at your OWN RISK.
Q10 - What about the new ICS kernels??
Well the safest kernel CM9 is attached and the other one by Entropy's DAFUQ kernel got updated too. Franco and Speedmod kernels are build on the latest ICS Sources and have the formatting of MMC is blocked. So you are safe from damaged MMC bricking bug but not sure about the any other bricking bug on that as two users (AFAIK) reported bricks in the Franco kernel thread.
Also look for as Entropy told here - "install CPUSpy and make sure you don't see "se.infra" anywhere - that's the buildhost of Samsung's own kernels which are dangerous"
Be safe, Play safe. Check their change-logs...what works and what not and where and what roms you can install them on!
Q11 - I want to jump off from the unsafe kernels. How ???
A quick guide from Chasmodo - Here And lil Info about Mobile Odin Here
Q12 - Brick! Brick Brick!! What Man everywhere i read this on ICS!! Why is it so happening??
Well, as very well explained by Entropy -
"We now know there are three things that are ALL needed for this to happen:
1) A recovery (can be the recovery itself OR it can be the update-binary in a ZIP you flash!) that performs ERASE commands in addition to formatting. (GB recoveries and update-binaries don't do this, ICS ones do)
2) A kernel that allows those ERASE attempts to actually go through. (Disabling MMC_CAP_ERASE prevents this.)
3) Buggy eMMC firmware
Basically:
In Gingerbread, condition 1 was not met (However, this isn't guaranteed - if a Gingerbread ROM developer happens to accidentally grab an ICS update-binary in his installation ZIP, this COULD brick!)
In I9100 ICS releases, condition 2 was not met due to MMC_CAP_ERASE being removed
Condition 3 is true for nearly every GT-I9100, SGH-I777, SPH-D710, and GT-N7000 ever sold."
So got it ? Wanna get your minds more widen with the knowledge on this aspect - Visit HERE
Q13 - Got Brickbug ???
CHECK HERE - Thanks Chainfire
Q14 - I want to have CM10 on my rom!! How to??
Check on what kernel you are on. Any Stock ICS kernel or any kernel based on stock ICS sources then go PC odin back to GB (just read the above conditions on wiping and factory restoring first). Now get root on your GB. Install a CM9 based rom and after that install CM10 rom. For people being extra adventurous you can use the CM9 safe kernel to switch between roms. :angel: And never forget doing full wipe before coming to CM10
Don’t use any repacks now please. LP1 is a NO NO ! And don’t even think about the other one!
To Devs – If you find this guide or rant useful then please link in your OP. Thanks for your great work and time you invest you us. You are providing all this awesomeness free of cost. Hats off to you all !!
Respect them people. Or read this - Show your Support, Don't Whine by toxicthunder
To All Members – If you find this useful kindly hit the thanks button. And remember to read OP of each rom thread!!
Happy Flashing and Enjoy your Notes !​I would like to quote+edit from toxicthunder post.
If something goes wrong, cry yourself a river.
But then don't forget to build a bridge and get over it.​
A highly recommended and awesome and handy extension for you all (Thanks Toxicthunder)
*Galaxy Note Toxic Toolbar* - Check it out
Lastly thanks to Chainfire , Entropy512 , Xplodwild , Dr Ketan , Original_Ganjaman , Chasmodo , Antiochasylum , Matius44 , Tremerone , Toxicthunder , Androidindian , Geo.Samuel for all the help and support you guys have provided to me and the community.
And just in case you thought this have helped you save your precious time and device and you have some pennies to spare , Then you are most welcome to​​donate here This will encourage me more ​

Reserved for some future addons
For Mac Users - read Heimdall instead of PC Odin

Thanks for this it will be very use full to many who choose to take the time to read fine work thanks

Will be linking this in my OP.
As long as people READ it, very very good info.

Looks great brother!
.....like Anti said....hopefully people will READ it and understand. It's pretty crystal clear if you ask me.

Good summary!

Impeccable. Must read for every user.
If I had my way, this post should flash on each and every user's screen before he clicks on the "Post Quick Reply" button.
Many thanks for this!!

A good summary of our current and somewhat unfortunate ICS situation.

So the new LPF firmware/kernel is it safe? Because I saw some members wipe etc. and say it works fine except it doesnt restore. but is it safe from bricks?

androidindian said:
So the new LPF firmware/kernel is it safe? Because I saw some members wipe etc. and say it works fine except it doesnt restore. but is it safe from bricks?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's early days yet. Be patient and we'll see.

Good one dawg!!
But if everybody had an habit of reading.............

Great work mate, added to the sticky list

Thanks Friends for all the support!! Yeah the only effort one has to do is to read. I made an effort to bring as many things as possible under one thread/OP. If not 100 threads then at least read this one. Yeah it still has so many threads linked but at least most of the info that is strewn in many threads i have tried to catch up here with direct linking. Will keep updating as new things keep popping. The first on the list being the LPF. Update in a couple of hours
Hope it helps all !!
Ah...and thanks OG for the sticky

Awesome thread.... for the awesome phone
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA

Great thread.
With so much information flowing these days, it's hard to keep track of what's going on.
Also, I had no idea that going back to GB from LPY may hard brick.. **** this.

Very well written post mate might recommend you as an editor trainee under the supeevision of our guru chas
Seriously though, very helpful thread and I really wish more and more members read it first.. Congrats on the sticky, well deserved
Cheers mate

Nice and concise.... Much appreciated
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium

I found this threat very usefull..thanks mate
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 2

First off GREAT POST ABHISAHARA!!! A thanks is coming your way . Soooo..... after reading your initial post, the the LPY to GB via PC Odin = super brick? thread, and THEN the how to revert back to gb from lpy ics View Single Post thread. I have a "decent" grasp on where I'm at. I was one of the gunslingers that jumped on board the LPY on day 1. I was on rooted (GB or ICS Repack, can't remember honestly) and installed LPY Stock unrooted via PC odin. It did NOT wipe all my data so i'm assuming that means I did not do a full wipe (seems like a good thing from what I read), I really would feel better if I got off of this and went back to GB. I understand if my phone works fine I should sit tight, but I do deal with large movie files on a reg basis. The steps are where it gets grainy.
What I plan to do:
1: Connect via pc odin and flash only the abyss kernel 4.2
2. Connect and flash the 3 file Rooted GB rom
3. Finally wipe everything
Could someone just tell me if a: I am being flat out stupid and should really stick with what I got, or b: let me know if what I plan to do is a best course of action for taking this plunge. Thanks in advance guys!!!

A very nice piece of work that should be read by every member.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA

[Q] First time Tablet/Android buyer.

Hello all,
I just ordered a new Note 10.1 from Costco.com (32 gig) and from reading reviews and such I was thrown into the world of rooting. For my job, we were given iPhones so I've really only had an iPhone and am used to the iOS. Not a fan. Have always wanted to try Android but have never been thrown into it.
Are there any good guides out there to help me better understand rooting, etc.? I understand that you have to unlock it, then flash a custom ROM. What happens when the newer version of that ROM comes out? Do you lose all of your Data? Can any mod be installed on any ROM? I just don't have a good understanding of how or what to do. Granted, I don't even have the tablet yet, however, I don't want to be completely lost when I get it. I do like the idea of rooting, given that you can install powerful apps that are only offered to rooted tablets.
This is my first post here and am hoping for some helpful responses of maybe some threads that I should read to help me understand things better.
Also, where do you find custom ROMS? Is there a certain section you have to go? Or are all the custom ROMS under the ANDROID DEVELOPMENT forum?
Thanks for the help.

Rooting gives you access to the base files of your device. Your device does not need to be "unlocked." That term refers to modifying the device to work with other carriers (i.e. Sprint, ATT, etc) other than the one it was built to work with. Basically, in order to root, you must first install a custom "recovery." CWM (Clockwork Mod Recovery) is probably the best one for our Notes. The recovery files can be downloaded in the development forums. Along with the program (Odin) that you use to get the recovery installed onto your Note. Once you have CWM installed you can then use a couple of different methods to root or install a custom rom that is already rooted (again look for these roms in the development areas of this forum). Make sure that you read and re-read the instructions that each developer lists on their forum until you feel comfortable and then follow the instructions to the letter! Not doing so can result in your Note really getting messed up. I have not rooted my note yet, however I have rooted and installed custom ROMs to several android phones that I have or have had and it can be really worth it to do so. Personally I am waiting for awhile with my Note for some easier and more reliable methods and ROMs to become available. Right now, I have a Samsung Infuse phone with CM10 installed and a Samsung Captivate with Slim Rom-Jellybean on it. I believe that early versions of both of these ROMs are already available for the Note 10.1. Of the two ROMs, I would probably go with CM10 - (Cyanogen Mod) as it seems to be more stable on my phones. Also, when you install a custom ROM on the Note 10.1, there is a binary counter that advances, that lets anyone who would have to work on it (like for warranty service), know that a custom ROM was installed and that would violate your warranty. There is already a modification available (again, in the development section), that resets this counter, so make sure that you research that too! Good Luck!!!

wd4oay said:
Rooting gives you access to the base files of your device. Your device does not need to be "unlocked." That term refers to modifying the device to work with other carriers (i.e. Sprint, ATT, etc) other than the one it was built to work with. Basically, in order to root, you must first install a custom "recovery." CWM (Clockwork Mod Recovery) is probably the best one for our Notes. The recovery files can be downloaded in the development forums. Along with the program (Odin) that you use to get the recovery installed onto your Note. Once you have CWM installed you can then use a couple of different methods to root or install a custom rom that is already rooted (again look for these roms in the development areas of this forum). Make sure that you read and re-read the instructions that each developer lists on their forum until you feel comfortable and then follow the instructions to the letter! Not doing so can result in your Note really getting messed up. I have not rooted my note yet, however I have rooted and installed custom ROMs to several android phones that I have or have had and it can be really worth it to do so. Personally I am waiting for awhile with my Note for some easier and more reliable methods and ROMs to become available. Right now, I have a Samsung Infuse phone with CM10 installed and a Samsung Captivate with Slim Rom-Jellybean on it. I believe that early versions of both of these ROMs are already available for the Note 10.1. Of the two ROMs, I would probably go with CM10 - (Cyanogen Mod) as it seems to be more stable on my phones. Also, when you install a custom ROM on the Note 10.1, there is a binary counter that advances, that lets anyone who would have to work on it (like for warranty service), know that a custom ROM was installed and that would violate your warranty. There is already a modification available (again, in the development section), that resets this counter, so make sure that you research that too! Good Luck!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are some of the main benefits to rooting then? I would think that if you have rooted a lot of phones you would for sure want your tablet rooted..?? Can you still perform mods to your tablet if it's NOT rooted? I saw someone with a cube on their homescreen with all their apps on it. It was 3D and pretty sweet looking. Will I be able to do stuff like that if I keep it stock.
Another thing, I read that you can't put apps on the expandable storage unless you root it...That is something I would like to do because I plan on putting games on it and such. Seems crappy you can't install some of the bigger apps on your 64 gig sd.

A lot is going to depend on which version of software you get initially on your tablet. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT let your tablet update the software when you first get it. The reason I say this is, if you have the older version of the software there is a very simple way to root your device. It's a simple install of one program and pushing a button. Very very easy.
If you get lucky and you get the older software and then root using the program I'm talking about, the next step is to spend $5 and buy Mobile Odin Pro. You can then download from here the latest software for your device and flash it using Mobile Odin with the ever root option. This will keep root on your new software. This will put you on the latest stock software and keep you rooted.
Custom ROMs can be nice. But I'd get my feet wet with the stock ROM before you start to jump into the Customs. First, stock on the Note 10.1 is pretty damn good. Second, you need to have some familiarity with what you want to be able to choose the right custom ROM to suit your needs. Finally, you'll give yourself some time to learn about your device so that you don't make a fatal mistake flashing, though most can be flashed using Mobile Odin.
Alas, if you get your Note and it turns out to have the latest ROM already, you can pretty much ignore everything I wrote.

just to give you one more thing to think about.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1957002
stock is nice btw

midas69 said:
A lot is going to depend on which version of software you get initially on your tablet. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT let your tablet update the software when you first get it. The reason I say this is, if you have the older version of the software there is a very simple way to root your device. It's a simple install of one program and pushing a button. Very very easy.
If you get lucky and you get the older software and then root using the program I'm talking about, the next step is to spend $5 and buy Mobile Odin Pro. You can then download from here the latest software for your device and flash it using Mobile Odin with the ever root option. This will keep root on your new software. This will put you on the latest stock software and keep you rooted.
Custom ROMs can be nice. But I'd get my feet wet with the stock ROM before you start to jump into the Customs. First, stock on the Note 10.1 is pretty damn good. Second, you need to have some familiarity with what you want to be able to choose the right custom ROM to suit your needs. Finally, you'll give yourself some time to learn about your device so that you don't make a fatal mistake flashing, though most can be flashed using Mobile Odin.
Alas, if you get your Note and it turns out to have the latest ROM already, you can pretty much ignore everything I wrote.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's good to know. Thank you.
jaydubbbbs said:
just to give you one more thing to think about.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1957002
stock is nice btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. I'll check that out. Now, the process that you linked me to, will that give me the latest version ROM (4.2.1?). Another thing, once I root it, will I be able to have the Tablet automatically update and download 4.3, 4.4, etc. and so on? or will I have to manually download and install the new one every time it comes out?

I read in sammobile that samsung will launch Note 8.0, it is true?
What do you think?

rooting
deeselcyde said:
That's good to know. Thank you.
Thank you. I'll check that out. Now, the process that you linked me to, will that give me the latest version ROM (4.2.1?). Another thing, once I root it, will I be able to have the Tablet automatically update and download 4.3, 4.4, etc. and so on? or will I have to manually download and install the new one every time it comes out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have rooted several phones but not this tablet. Why? because for me the stock rom is good enough that I personally dont see an advantage to rooting it. Some like to root and install roms for the fun of it but I need the tablet to work and dont have time to futs around with getting to know a new rom.
I also have the impression,correct me if I'm wrong, that with custom roms you loose some of the multiscreen functionality and some of the pen functionality? If true that alone would keep me on stock.

optimus43 said:
I have rooted several phones but not this tablet. Why? because for me the stock rom is good enough that I personally dont see an advantage to rooting it. Some like to root and install roms for the fun of it but I need the tablet to work and dont have time to futs around with getting to know a new rom.
I also have the impression,correct me if I'm wrong, that with custom roms you loose some of the multiscreen functionality and some of the pen functionality? If true that alone would keep me on stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's more reasons to root other than just flashing custom ROMs. As a matter of fact, you really don't even have to root to install a custom ROM, you just need a custom recovery installed.
Personally I'm fine with the stock ROM on this tablet even though I run custom ROMs on my phones. I did have a custom ROM installed for a few weeks that was little more than the stock ROM with a few tweaks. It didn't lose any functionality with regards to multi-screen or pen. But some of the other more customized ROMs do lose functionality.

optimus43 said:
I have rooted several phones but not this tablet. Why? because for me the stock rom is good enough that I personally dont see an advantage to rooting it. Some like to root and install roms for the fun of it but I need the tablet to work and dont have time to futs around with getting to know a new rom.
I also have the impression,correct me if I'm wrong, that with custom roms you loose some of the multiscreen functionality and some of the pen functionality? If true that alone would keep me on stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only thing I care about is having the ability to install Google Apps that can only be installed on rooted ROMS. I've read that there are a lot of great apps for rooted ONLY tablets. Also, some of those 3D cube thingy's that have all the app icons on it are kind of cool. I don't know if you can install those on a stock ROM..??

deeselcyde said:
That's good to know. Thank you.
Thank you. I'll check that out. Now, the process that you linked me to, will that give me the latest version ROM (4.2.1?). Another thing, once I root it, will I be able to have the Tablet automatically update and download 4.3, 4.4, etc. and so on? or will I have to manually download and install the new one every time it comes out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no, it leaves the firmware as is and it simply gives you root access, i.e. administrative control over just about all processes that the tablet is capable of. It also allows you to flash custom ROMS. that method, along with the exynos exploit method ( not possible on 4.1.2), leave you as close to stock as possible . and leaves the official recovery. Someone will undoubtedly correct me if I am wrong, but so long as you don't flash a custom ROM, I believe you can still update through OTA. I know you can through KIES. If you do go with a custom ROM, I'm pretty sure you lose all the touch wiz goodies, like multi screen as another noted above. and likely would have to use ODIN or mobile ODIN to update.

deeselcyde said:
What are some of the main benefits to rooting then? I would think that if you have rooted a lot of phones you would for sure want your tablet rooted..?? Can you still perform mods to your tablet if it's NOT rooted? I saw someone with a cube on their homescreen with all their apps on it. It was 3D and pretty sweet looking. Will I be able to do stuff like that if I keep it stock.
Another thing, I read that you can't put apps on the expandable storage unless you root it...That is something I would like to do because I plan on putting games on it and such. Seems crappy you can't install some of the bigger apps on your 64 gig sd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Custom apps such as multi window manager. Custom roms if you wish. Overclock cpu with tegrak on stock rooted, it does sometimes come in handy to be safely overclocked. personally this tablet is so good off the shelf you dont NEED a custom rom but that overclock is good. Ability to access and change root files such as dolphin preference in order to make it work with flash player. More reliable backups of apps and data with titanium backup. There are a plethera of reasons for rooting a tablet. But do be cautious.

Don't forget you need root for AdAway. You also need root if you want to play around (very dangerous) with the build.prop file to try to install programs that the Play Store says aren't compatible.

deeselcyde said:
The only thing I care about is having the ability to install Google Apps that can only be installed on rooted ROMS. I've read that there are a lot of great apps for rooted ONLY tablets. Also, some of those 3D cube thingy's that have all the app icons on it are kind of cool. I don't know if you can install those on a stock ROM..??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 3d cube things I think your talking about are scroll effects, like cube, sphere or card stack. You dont need to be rooted for these, you can just download a launcher (nova, apex, adw) from the play store and change the effects in there.
Sent from my GT-N8010 using xda app-developers app

jaydubbbbs said:
just to give you one more thing to think about.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1957002
stock is nice btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One more question about that link. So once I follow the instructions provided in the link to root my Note 10.1, will I still have the custom ROM? And, will I be able to auto update from Samsung or whoever whenever a new version of the Android ROM comes out? I don't necessarily care about having someones custom ROM, I just want the benefits of using the GAPPS that I wouldn't be able to use if I wasn't rooted.
Thanks.

[Q] I'm sorry guys, rom help?

Ok guys, I'm sorry if this has been posted before but I'm really a noob to ROM and in deadly afraid of messing up since my s4 is the UNLOCKED one. Ie, I was smart enough to check xda first before accepting any OTA updates.
Now, my problem :
1: In every rom thread I see, people say how this or that is more stable, or this or that gives better performance. It's very confusing! Then when I go to the thread featuring said rom, it says "hey. Do this and that, then flash our rom".
At this point I get lost. How do I flash said rom? Yes, Google is my friend. It is also my enemy since it provides a lot of unnecessary and sometimes scary information. Ie, bricking. I don't want to mess up. I paid full price for this phone at best buy, but it isn't the dev edition. If I brick it I can return it but I won't have root. (ok, I checked. I'll have root but no room for rom)
2: I want a rom with better battery life and better performance, without needing to worry about continually updating each build. I can't decide on any roms. The best I can see seems to be hyperdrive?
3: I absolutely need/want said rom to work with all my current apps. Is this a concern at all or do they all work more or less? Some of the games I play use mpaax4. (galaxy on fire2)
4: what else am I missing? I'm not new to rooting. Just roms. The s4 was the hardest for me to root, requiring Odin. No one click method there!
Please be gentle. I'm not stupid, just afraid of messing up since at this point I have no safety net.

Omega rom by Indie is a nice TW based rom for instance that is very stable. Also nicely customisable and themable. You flash it with a custom recovery.

Now, my problem :
1: In every rom thread I see, people say how this or that is more stable, or this or that gives better performance. It's very confusing! Then when I go to the thread featuring said rom, it says "hey. Do this and that, then flash our rom".
At this point I get lost. How do I flash said rom?
-Flash via custom recovery (Philz, CWM, etc)
Yes, Google is my friend. It is also my enemy since it provides a lot of unnecessary and sometimes scary information. Ie, bricking. I don't want to mess up. I paid full price for this phone at best buy, but it isn't the dev edition. If I brick it I can return it but I won't have root. (ok, I checked. I'll have root but no room for rom)
2: I want a rom with better battery life and better performance, without needing to worry about continually updating each build. I can't decide on any roms. The best I can see seems to be hyperdrive?
-we cannot pinpoint the "best" rom. and these kind of questions are usually not allowed. the "best" rom differs with one's personal preference.. so you might have to read changelogs before flashing custom roms.
3: I absolutely need/want said rom to work with all my current apps. Is this a concern at all or do they all work more or less? Some of the games I play use mpaax4. (galaxy on fire2)
-yes, they will work regardless of what rom (unless you are on an aosp based rom and you want tw apps to work, the odds pretty slim unless someone ports the apps)
4: what else am I missing? I'm not new to rooting. Just roms. The s4 was the hardest for me to root, requiring Odin. No one click method there!
-odin is pretty the same with superoneclick.. basically, all you have to do is click on PDA, insert root file (usually .tar), put phone to download mode and plug it to pc, then click start.
*good luck!
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium

Thread closed as its going to turn into a Best ROM thread.