Related
FIRST TRY... Edited system.img (KERNEL 2.6.36.3 only!!!)
WARNING: ONLY USE THIS IF YOU HAVE A BACKUP OF YOUR /DEV/BLOCK/MMCBLK0P3 IF YOU DONT HAVE ONE YET, MAKE ONE BY USING THIS:
IF FROM ADB:
ADB SHELL
SU
IF=/DEV/BLOCK/MMCBLK0P3 OF=/SDCARD/SYSTEM.IMG
IF FROM TERMINAL EMULATOR:
SU
IF=/DEV/BLOCK/MMCBLK0P3 OF=/SDCARD/SYSTEM.IMG
THIS IS A FUNCTIONAL FILE SYSTEM, I AM WORKING ON A CUSTOM ROM WITHOUT HAVING TO HAVE THE BOOTLOADER UNLOCKED.
THE ONLY THING THAT HAS CHANGED ON THIS SYSTEM.IMG IS THE BOOT ANIMATION (INSTEAD OF "ANDROID" IT HAS THE HONEYCOMB BEE) AND THE FONT HAS CHANGED ALSO...
AGAIN, THIS IS JUST A TEST, IT IS THE FULL FILE SYSTEM TO BE USED ON A DAILY BASIS BUT DOES NOT HAVE ANY OPTIMIZED FILES AT THIS TIME.
Alright, now that you have read the warning... download this file here:
LINK = http://www.megaupload.com/?d=1YZSDVZI = LINK
You can then push the file through ADB by typing:
dd if=/sdcard/blk0p3_sys.img of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p3
Post if it worked for you or if it did not, this will help me troubleshoot...
PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU MAKE A BACKUP OF YOUR FILES FIRST!!! THIS FILE IS BASED ON USA MODEL 1.104.05_GEN1 ACER A500. I RECOMMEND TO TRY ONLY IF YOU HAVE HAD TO UNBRICK YOUR TABLET BEFORE. I DONT WANT TO MESS UP YOUR TABLET!!! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!! JEJEJE
Please post if it has worked for you or if it glitched, I am currently in trial and error so... my tablet gets bricked 1-3 times a day because I am testing different things on the system images... hopefully, I can find a way to have root on the image or at least include:
1. File manager
2. ROOT or at least the Gingerbreak.apk already installed.
3. Terminal emulator
4. Custom background upon boot
As stated, it works for me but I have only 1 tablet so if you are daring enough, please dont hessitate to help me in getting this up and running...
I AM NOT A DEVELOPER SO PLEASE BARE WITH ME AS I AM TRYING TO LEARN AS I GO... JEJEJE
props to you!
u crazy.
I don't see any attachment or link...
Euclid's Brother said:
I don't see any attachment or link...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry about that, i've updated the post... jejeje
Beta Rom
Applied your image & got the honeybee and very small print. no other changes notes, moving back to previous system image. still can not get updates due to Chinese ROM unbricking, but that will come in time.
tomlogan1 said:
Applied your image & got the honeybee and very small print. no other changes notes, moving back to previous system image. still can not get updates due to Chinese ROM unbricking, but that will come in time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THANKS!!! this is what I am needing... at this time, there is NOTHING ELSE that has been changed on the file system... I am just testing making sure that my changes stick... I am hoping to be able to change some more things... As long as its working... I will continue changing things ... Until I can get an image that is worthy of "Custom ROM" status... jejeje
tomlogan1 said:
Applied your image & got the honeybee and very small print. no other changes notes, moving back to previous system image. still can not get updates due to Chinese ROM unbricking, but that will come in time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you fix your issue if you haven't I'm on gtalk if you want help I pulled my hair out for 2.5 days before I fixed it
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
cant figure out how to multiquote as clicking the buttons dont do anything.
but just look at "Crsdr37"'s post in general with the imgs and update zip to get back to stock and updates!!!
and to the person who made the IMG keep up the good work. im not gonna flash it and im happy with being stock and getting updates now ;D
Have you figured out how to apply the incremental updates to the img?
I suspect it's just replacing files, I'll look at it when I get to a PC.
Ive been away from my tablet today. I put the post up and went out tonight... jejeje
Thank you guys that tested my image... if it worked for you, THANKS!!! if ou didnt, then let me know what did not work...
THIS IS NOT NOT NOT AN UPDATED IMAGE, IF YOU CHECK THE DESCRIPTION, THIS IS A TEST IMAGE TO GET A CUSTOM ROM OVER TO THE ACER A500... I AM TESTING SO I WILL NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT UPDATES... THAT IS FOR MY OTHER POST... SORRY PEOPLE.
Never did. Am back now on the EMEA version and going to wait until someone cracks the code. I have reflashed so much I can do it with my eyes closed.
i am going to try it as well nice thing you guys do
Great
Cheers man, !
So, pulling your system image from /DEV/BLOCK/MMCBLK0P3, then modifying it, then pushing it back works?
Let me try and understand here:
I thought the whole locked bootloader thing checked signatures on the images that are about to be loaded into memory, such as the image in /system.
According to this:
http://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/hkbf3/so_you_want_to_know_about_bootloaders_heres_the/
It says:
What does a bootloader do with digital signatures?
It uses them to check any update that passes through it.
So: dd any partition we want to modify, back it up in a safe place, mount the img we get from that, make changes within the img, and dd it back, = all good?
ie: signed bootloaders only have to do with installing update.zips on the sdcard?
Can someone clear this up for me?
Thanks!
Unfortunately, I don't know how to answer that... I have to make my changes through the tab and then pull the system.img. Everytime I make edits externally, my tablet crashes... That's why I'm in testing right now.
sorry guys, I'm not a developer so there are going to be some things I can't answer but if someone is willing to explain it, please do as it is a learning experience for us all... jejeje
Sent from my WP7 []D[][]V[][]D ARRIVE using Board Express
If you'd read my question before making an all-caps rude response you'd see that I was asking if you've made any headway into applying the updates, not if you had already done them.
netham45 said:
If you'd read my question before making an all-caps rude response you'd see that I was asking if you've made any headway into applying the updates, not if you had already done them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, chill man... You are right, your question does ask about headway for the updates but here are the facts:
You are asking about updates on a BETA Rom that is just in testing...
I took your question to be if the ROM file had the updates (My fault for sure). I was not yelling per say nor trying to be rude but rather making sure that people are aware this is in no way an updated image and should not be treated as such... THIS IS A TEST ROM and since your question was posted within its thread, I took it as if it was directed to the image itself and not toward me and my development...
Look, as stated, im not a developer man, this stuff is a little hard for me to do. I do apologize because I did not answer your question correctly/completely but as far as the comment... Its what I meant. jejeje
tomlogan1 said:
Never did. Am back now on the EMEA version and going to wait until someone cracks the code. I have reflashed so much I can do it with my eyes closed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have restored to complete US stock. Had a lot of problems related to SD cards, had to swap them out to avoid errors on the actual update.zip file, but am back to normal. Now if I can just keep my hands off until the 3.1 update comes out, or there is custom ROM...
mapaz04 said:
Unfortunately, I don't know how to answer that... I have to make my changes through the tab and then pull the system.img. Everytime I make edits externally, my tablet crashes... That's why I'm in testing right now.
sorry guys, I'm not a developer so there are going to be some things I can't answer but if someone is willing to explain it, please do as it is a learning experience for us all... jejeje
Sent from my WP7 []D[][]V[][]D ARRIVE using Board Express
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I've doing for a while now....I guess I should have shared xD
been installing custom fonts and trying to change some of the system settings from other customized roms directly from the tablet.
Instead of reflashing wouldn't it be easier to just provide the files to push into the tablet? just my 0.02
Yeah, I can provide files for you guys to install but what I was going for was an image that contained everything already setup so you can just flash it over ur old one allowing the "customization" to appear upon install/pushin the file... jejeje
Sent from my WP7 []D[][]V[][]D ARRIVE using Board Express
I'm trying to restore my Acer Iconia A500 back to the stock/ original ROM so that I can grab the official update in July. Is there any way to do that? I really like the custom ROMS, I just want to revert to see what it was like.
Mestiza5683 said:
I'm trying to restore my Acer Iconia A500 back to the stock/ original ROM so that I can grab the official update in July. Is there any way to do that? I really like the custom ROMS, I just want to revert to see what it was like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And, of course you made a backup via clockworkmod???? eh?
Why are so many not making backups of their tabs before installing unknown software?
There's lots of threads about this in the forums with instructions already. And this belongs in the General forum, not development.
Yes I'd also be interested in this. I have the droid x so when ever I want to revert to factory settings theirs a program on the computer (rsd lite) I use to revert it. So I almost never backup my roms. Now on my iconia they don't have such program. At least that I know of. So I flashed a rom on my iconia and didn't make a backup of my current one. I tried fixing it by flashing stock_acer a500.zip I thing by dexter don't quote me on that one. But it was the emea version so now its stock european and I live in america. Help is apreciated.
I'm a flashing person that has flashed many times on my phones. I forgot to make a nandroid backup of my original rom myself...so I'm not judging. I would say, flash honeyvillian, as its the closest thing to stock I've seen.
But, if your already flashing, I wouldn't want to grab the official anything...someone will post it once it comes out.
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
I want to flash it to the latest stock. So when ota 3.1 is released, I could rest assure knowing that my device would get updates ota.
Euclid's Brother said:
And, of course you made a backup via clockworkmod???? eh?
Why are so many not making backups of their tabs before installing unknown software?
There's lots of threads about this in the forums with instructions already. And this belongs in the General forum, not development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
because we are impatient and stupid
I am running to get someone with a tablet of my country to get back the STOCK ROM in case of... I am going to see if I can deal with the shop to root and recovery on SD Card the stock rom so I will be able to have the stock rom...
For USA version 1.104.02, Check out this post.. You'll probably want to skip flashing the stock recovery until you know the system will boot normally.. So from this post, run itsmagic, flash boot, flexrom and system, in that order. Preferable from an adb connection. The tablet will freeze while flashing system. Give at least 5 mintues to make sure it's complete.
You may need to do a data wipe if it bootloops (that's why you should skip flashing recovery). Once it's booting normally, you can flash the stock recovery if you want.
Alternatively, you should be able to replace the files in dexter's stock update zip with these files. But I haven't looked at that zip, so I don't know if system is an image file or a archive file.
Thanks for the replies quick question though. How do in run its magic is their a command for ADB or do I acess it via clockwork recovery?
Respawntime said:
Thanks for the replies quick question though. How do in run its magic is their a command for ADB or do I acess it via clockwork recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You download it from the itsmagic thread in the development form and follow the directions in that thread.
Euclid's Brother said:
And, of course you made a backup via clockworkmod???? eh?
Why are so many not making backups of their tabs before installing unknown software?
There's lots of threads about this in the forums with instructions already. And this belongs in the General forum, not development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I too would like to restore to the 3.0.1 stock rom, however my backup of the stock rom got corrupted somehow. I know it had to be something I done, but know not what it was I did. Any help would be much appreciated. Or would it be a better idea to flash the 3.1 leak?
I've got a new A500 and I intend to root it soon, but I would like advice on whether to take the current update 7.014.1 being pushed before I go through the rooting process? It currently shows having 3.2 OS version.
Zoandroid said:
I've got a new A500 and I intend to root it soon, but I would like advice on whether to take the current update 7.014.1 being pushed before I go through the rooting process? It currently shows having 3.2 OS version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't matter, the only way to root it is by flashing it which wipes it totally clean
timmyDean said:
Doesn't matter, the only way to root it is by flashing it which wipes it totally clean
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My concern, being still in the middle of researching just how to root the A500, was whether the update would have a similar effect as, for example, the more major update from 3.0 to 3.2, which, as I understand it totally changes the procedure used to achieve root. But if it won't matter one way or the other, I might as well take the update in the interim. I keep hoping to see a more simple 'one-click' style of root made available before I tackle this task. So far I've found something like 3 different ways to root the tablet between this forum and another. But each is a rather involved process.
Thanks!
timmyDean said:
Doesn't matter, the only way to root it is by flashing it which wipes it totally clean
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I downgraded, rooted, and then flashed the stock ROM without wiping. If going to any other rom, you might need to wipe.
There currently is no way to root a stock 3.2 or later tablet with a simple one click. In the past GingerBreak gave us that ability but since has been plugged. The other thing causing issues is ACER locked the boot loader making it difficult to flash in a new boot image to get to root.
=== 411 on rooting ===
So, if you have a tablet and want to root it then you have to start looking at security holes. This is what the GingerBreak exploit did along with others. But, ACER plugged those holes and as of today, nobody has found anymore.
So, you might look at exploiting an update.zip. These are OTA's that run but they are signed by ACER. So you can take it apart (unzip) and modify it, but you cannot resign it with an ACER Key. Therefore, you have to sign it with your key. Since it is NOT signed by ACER, the ACER recovery will not install it. So, you have to replace the ACER recovery with CWM which will install any update.zip regardless of who signed it. You just need to change the built in recovery by flashing in CWM recovery.
Lastly, you can just change the boot image and add root. This is easy and straight forward to do. This is just like making your own custom update.zip. Once you have your custom boot, you can then just use Nvflash to flash in your custom boot.
Now, fast forward. ACER (can someone please explain to me why?) decided to lock the bootloader thereby not allowing you to replace the recovery, boot, or any other area. Meaning, you cannot use Nvflash anymore without a key.
With the bootloader locked, you can only load new images if you know the key used to lock it. Of course, they use a public and private key combination, and they appear to use the serial number of the USB device as part of the public key making the keys on my tablet unique compared to yours.
With all this said, this ends all the easy simple rooting methods because first, they've plugged all the security holes (which they should do). Secondly, they locked the boot loader making it very difficult for people to just flash in a rooted boot image.
Armed with this, how do you root a 3.2? One way to do it is to get to a version prior to 3.2 loaded that has a security hole or does not have the bootloader locked. You now exploit it and get root. Now, with root access you make a 'backdoor' that only you know about which allows you to get into your tablet as root. With this done, now roll your tablet forward apply all updates. Since you have a 'backdoor' you can always gain root access.
Unfortunately, this gets to be messy or can be more difficult to do than just clicking on a GingerBreak application. However, if you follow the steps posted here in the forum, it's straight forward and easy enough to do. If not, you are going to have to wait for someone to find a hole and build a oneclick application. I wouldn't hold my breath on this, it probably will never happen because everyone is working on ICS.
Lastly, everyone should write to ACER, refuse to buy ACER (or any tablet) that doesn't allow you (AS THE OWNER) to change it. How would you like to buy a Ford to just have Ford lock the lug nuts on the rims so you could NOT put on your custom wheels.
I believe failure to allow owners to unlock these devices will be the downfall to Android. Windows 8 does NOT have such restrictions and businesses are not going to use devices that are locked and cannot be customized for business. Because developers write software they can sell, they'll move to Windows 8 and drop supporting Android and all these goofy flavors and restrictions. Android might be great and everyone hates Microsoft, but software vendors are going to NOT want to support all these devices.
my 2¢
timmyDean said:
There currently is no way to root a stock 3.2 or later tablet with a simple one click. In the past GingerBreak gave us that ability but since has been plugged. The other thing causing issues is ACER locked the boot loader making it difficult to flash in a new boot image to get to root.
=== 411 on rooting ===
So, if you have a tablet and want to root it then you have to start looking at security holes. This is what the GingerBreak exploit did along with others. But, ACER plugged those holes and as of today, nobody has found anymore.
So, you might look at exploiting an update.zip. These are OTA's that run but they are signed by ACER. So you can take it apart (unzip) and modify it, but you cannot resign it with an ACER Key. Therefore, you have to sign it with your key. Since it is NOT signed by ACER, the ACER recovery will not install it. So, you have to replace the ACER recovery with CWM which will install any update.zip regardless of who signed it. You just need to change the built in recovery by flashing in CWM recovery.
Lastly, you can just change the boot image and add root. This is easy and straight forward to do. This is just like making your own custom update.zip. Once you have your custom boot, you can then just use Nvflash to flash in your custom boot.
Now, fast forward. ACER (can someone please explain to me why?) decided to lock the bootloader thereby not allowing you to replace the recovery, boot, or any other area. Meaning, you cannot use Nvflash anymore without a key.
With the bootloader locked, you can only load new images if you know the key used to lock it. Of course, they use a public and private key combination, and they appear to use the serial number of the USB device as part of the public key making the keys on my tablet unique compared to yours.
With all this said, this ends all the easy simple rooting methods because first, they've plugged all the security holes (which they should do). Secondly, they locked the boot loader making it very difficult for people to just flash in a rooted boot image.
Armed with this, how do you root a 3.2? One way to do it is to get to a version prior to 3.2 loaded that has a security hole or does not have the bootloader locked. You now exploit it and get root. Now, with root access you make a 'backdoor' that only you know about which allows you to get into your tablet as root. With this done, now roll your tablet forward apply all updates. Since you have a 'backdoor' you can always gain root access.
Unfortunately, this gets to be messy or can be more difficult to do than just clicking on a GingerBreak application. However, if you follow the steps posted here in the forum, it's straight forward and easy enough to do. If not, you are going to have to wait for someone to find a hole and build a oneclick application. I wouldn't hold my breath on this, it probably will never happen because everyone is working on ICS.
Lastly, everyone should write to ACER, refuse to buy ACER (or any tablet) that doesn't allow you (AS THE OWNER) to change it. How would you like to buy a Ford to just have Ford lock the lug nuts on the rims so you could NOT put on your custom wheels.
I believe failure to allow owners to unlock these devices will be the downfall to Android. Windows 8 does NOT have such restrictions and businesses are not going to use devices that are locked and cannot be customized for business. Because developers write software they can sell, they'll move to Windows 8 and drop supporting Android and all these goofy flavors and restrictions. Android might be great and everyone hates Microsoft, but software vendors are going to NOT want to support all these devices.
my 2¢
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, and thank you VERY much for posting such a nice explanation, especially in addition to all the work you have done posting your thread rooting 3.2. I understand, and completely agree with your explanation, as well as your position on taking control of what we bought and paid for. I take even stronger offense with this tablet's bootloader being locked than I do on my phones. This is not a discounted phone with a service plan tied to a cell provider. It has WiFi, but " I " am the only one providing its data (it never leaves my home). There is no justification here that I am 'leasing' a provider's technology . It was a gift, so I can't speak to choosing the vendor. But I like your wheel lug analogy.
I've been reading the threads on rooting, and both my Android phones are rooted and ROMed, so I've been around the block a couple times from the rooting aspect. But thus far I have been rather confused as to which route to take with the tablet. I don't want to be limited to using terminal for su access, so I want to 'fully root' the tablet. My goal is to allow apps like Titanium Backup, Root Explorer, and others I use on the phones, as well as having Clockworkmod Recovery, or similar recovery capable of working with nandroid backups. But for now I don't have plans to use a custom ROM. So having rooted stock 3.2 would suffice.
Although I do fully understand the need to research these kinds of things before jumping in, I also know that often times information evolves, and lengthy threads which were once considered current info end up not getting updated during that evolution. This can lead to wasted time reading information which can no longer actually be used . So in the spirit of pursuing the most current info, could you recommend which thread I can use to get the best results while rooting this 3.2.1 OS Tablet with the above goals in mind?
Used Timmydean's method, it is pretty easy as long as you follow his instructions with in the zip file he has made with all the tools you need inside of hat zip file. You root, install super user and busybox then download Acer recover installer and that will install cwm...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20654298&postcount=129
Good luck and thanks again timmydean for this method.
Sent from my A500 using xda premium
Thanks, that sounds like the way to go. I'll head over to the link you provided.
I've got a couple of questions about the zip file at that post. I want to download that to my PC, and will be using ADB from there, right? I have the choice of doing so from either Windows XP SP3, or Windows 7 Home Premium. I read in older threads that many of the problems people had were only when they used XP, but were avoided by using Windows 7 (which was exactly opposite of what people experienced rooting the LG Ally), so it seems that in this case it is desirable to use Win7?
I presume I'll need to install a driver so the PC can 'see' the tablet. Is one provided in the tools, or do I need to download that somewhere?
I used windows 7. Yes the driver is in the zip file. I unzipped the file to a folder on my desktop and went from there.
In the zip there is a folder called usbpcdriver. Run the set up from within the fooder to get your driver... please read the instructions that say read me..
Sent from my A500 using xda premium
Thanks. I intend to read everything I can get my hands on before I actually start this. I definitely don't want any trouble or, heaven forbid, to brick the tablet.
pretty easy i think... good luck and let us know when you get rooted
I'm not finding any actual instructions on the steps to take for this procedure. The readme file in version 3 zip file only talks about "changes" from whatever the original procedure was.
Where can I get the actual instructions for the entire procedure?
Edit: I just downloaded version 2 of the zip file. In that one there is an additional PDF called "Steps". It is a little more detailed, and says at step 20 that "you should now have 3.2 with a SU shell installed". Does the DotNetDetector step actually ROOT the device? That seems simple enough, but it still has no mention of things like installing ADB and the PC driver. I located the actual thread from which the single post was derived (the target of the URL above, where it is suggested I use TimmyDean's procedure). I am now looking through that entire thread to try to sort out where the instructions are.
AHA! Post 119 of that main thread says "Also the instructions and everything you need are in earlier posts.".
It appears this procedure needs an instruction manual written to consolidate all the gathered information. Having a link to only the download zip files isn't telling me the whole picture. I'll try gleaning the thread and see if I can put together all the steps needed from start to finish to make this work. Looks like ROOT ain't happening tonight.
http://www.multiupload.com/SLR6XSV841
---------- Post added at 05:14 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:11 AM ----------
thats the link to read me file.. I about to jail break an Iphone 4... Wish me luck
I edited the above post while you were replying. I'll check out that link, thanks.
Good luck on jailbreaking the DemonSpawn 4.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20680452&postcount=137
he has updated it again. looks like a few steps where taken out to make it more simpler
good luck man. Iphone is jail broken
OK, so it looks like the file you just sent me a link to is the same one as the "Steps.PDF" file that was released in Version 2. It appears to me that what I need to do is blend the changes (detailed in version 3's readme file) into that original Steps file, to make a single contiguous set of instructions, and then start at the top. I notice it does mention installing the PC driver and ADB.
Do I have this right so far?
rdnkchevy said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20680452&postcount=137
he has updated it again. looks like a few steps where taken out to make it more simpler
good luck man. Iphone is jail broken
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was fast! Wanna do my tablet?
The link you sent just now is to the version 3 zip file posted on 12/25, which is what I had initially downloaded. It does appear he streamlined the procedure, but it is that readme file which leaves out the part about installing the PC driver and ADB in the beginning, and also leaves out the part at the end telling you that you should now have 3.2 with a SU shell installed.
Please understand that I want to be "fully" rooted, not just have the ability to gain an SU prompt in terminal. Will this procedure "fully root" the tablet? I'm confused by what he means saying "SU shell installed".
Yes if you use his v3 file you will be.. you will need to down load acer recovery from the market after you are rooted and then flash clockworkmod.. this should all take you about 30 min if that...
rdnkchevy said:
Yes if you use his v3 file you will be.. you will need to down load acer recovery from the market after you are rooted and then flash clockworkmod.. this should all take you about 30 min if that...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, thanks!! Rooting went well without incident. I just installed Root Explorer and Titanium Backup, and made a backup to SD of my apps and data. Then installed Acer Recovery Installer, and let it install CWM Recovery. But what is considered the "home" button on the tablet?? Is it the reset button? The only buttons on this thing are the Volume rocker and the Power button. ( I got brave and found out it is the POWER button ).
Edit: To clarify, I meant to ask which button serves as the Home button while you are IN the CWM Recovery environment, not while in the Android OS home screen.
So first of all my tablet is brand new and not rooted and I don't want to root it.
When I got it I could update it instantly from 3.0.whateverwastheversionatthetime to android 3.2 (build 7.006.01_COM_GEN1) but it won't go from there to 3.2.1 which I hear is available for my location (France) The update tool tells me that my firmware is up to date.
I've tried a factory reset as advised by Acer customer care services but it wouldn't change. Also no matter what I do (empty cache etc.) the market won't update to Google Play Store and I think the two issues are related.
So I have two (or rather 3) questions:
1) Does anyone know a way around to force the update? (I doubt it's possible but hey "l'espoir fait vivre")
2) If not can I install a stock ROM without root and NOT compromise the warranty?
3) Where can I get such a ROM? I have searched here and here but 3.2.1 is not on the first thread and the links on the second thread are broken, plus I want to make sure that the ROM is the proper one for my region and that comes the ICS OTA update I will have no troubles doing the update.
Thanks in advance to those who will answer.
lunaticwraith said:
So I have two (or rather 3) questions:
1) Does anyone know a way around to force the update? (I doubt it's possible but hey "l'espoir fait vivre")
2) If not can I install a stock ROM without root and NOT compromise the warranty?
3) Where can I get such a ROM? I have searched here and here but 3.2.1 is not on the first thread and the links on the second thread are broken, plus I want to make sure that the ROM is the proper one for my region and that comes the ICS OTA update I will have no troubles doing the update.
Thanks in advance to those who will answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) No you cannot force an OTA
2) It depends - others have reported returning there acer with no probs -, i think someone has even returned it rooted and been ok. These things are fairly bulletproof, and really hard to 'brick'. As long as you can read, follow a few steps you shouldnt have any probs. The worse thing you can do is try 2 or 3 different methods all at once because something isnt working right. You're best to pick one and stick with it, if you have probs ask for help in the thread you got the rom from or start your own like you have here
3) The update.zip method from the first link you posted "should" work. Did you "decrypt" the file you downloaded before extracting the update.zip??
You could try timmyDeans v4 method- it will install a stock 3.2.1, it is rooted but you can remove root using the tools he provides. Beware though this will wipe all data so backup anything essential.
The update.zip method will leave your data and settings intact
As always the choice is yours, there are some really excellent custom roms out there - I enjoy the best of both worlds with a backup of my trusty stock 3.2.1, I flash to my hearts content knowing I can always go back to it when the OTA update is out!!! Oh the joys of root priveleges
Thanks for your input, I'll make sure to try all this when I get back from work. I've a few additional questions:
1) If I install a custom rom, will the OTA work from this ROM or, comes the OTA, will I have to restore my actual Stock rom and then proceed with the OTA?
2) I haven't tried the rom on the first link I gave because it is modified and I was searching for the original, pristine, untouched stock ROM for 3.2.1
I've seen such roms around here on xda for 3.2 but none for 3.2.1, if anyone stumbles upon one please let me know.
3) Since I'm still looking for a pristine ROM before trying anything else, I have a friend whose tablet (same brand and model) safely updated to 3.2.1, is there a way to make a rom from is gear? If yes, how to?
4) (related to 3) how can I backup my actual ROM, do I have to be a root user to do so?
THX again!
lunaticwraith said:
Thanks for your input, I'll make sure to try all this when I get back from work. I've a few additional questions:
1) If I install a custom rom, will the OTA work from this ROM or, comes the OTA, will I have to restore my actual Stock rom and then proceed with the OTA?
2) I haven't tried the rom on the first link I gave because it is modified and I was searching for the original, pristine, untouched stock ROM for 3.2.1
I've seen such roms around here on xda for 3.2 but none for 3.2.1, if anyone stumbles upon one please let me know.
3) Since I'm still looking for a pristine ROM before trying anything else, I have a friend whose tablet (same brand and model) safely updated to 3.2.1, is there a way to make a rom from is gear? If yes, how to?
4) (related to 3) how can I backup my actual ROM, do I have to be a root user to do so?
THX again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Typically, most people do not take OTA's when running a custom rom, as basically the OTA installs a totally fresh factory Rom. This is true with the 3.2.1 update, which contains a new bootloader. Usually, this means you lose root, and Recovery, then stuck with downgrading to get these things back.
Timmy Deans root tool supposedly maintains a back door method, which s supposed to protect root, in case of an OTA. No, I haven't used this method, as I run my own 501 roms.
2. Vache has a thread "full package and updates" in the 500 Dev forum. There are several factory Roms and Updates. You'll have to look. Chances are, he may not have the specific Com Gen version you want, but probably one close enough.
3. If your friend can get adb running, you can pull a "system dump", which will dump all files/folders in the system folder. The boot.img would be nice to get, but you can probably use the current one you have. Unfortunately, he already rebooted, so you probably can't get the original full update file. If he's rooted, you can use an app called Rom Factory, to get most of what you need. It's always a good time to become familiar with ADB.
4. Well, you can back it up internally, but it's sort of useless if you can't get into your OS You will need to Root, and install a custom recovery to keep your backup externally.
Moscow Desire said:
2. Vache has a thread "full package and updates" in the 500 Dev forum. There are several factory Roms and Updates. You'll have to look. Chances are, he may not have the specific Com Gen version you want, but probably one close enough.
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Click to collapse
ok, as Moscow has pointed out, in vaches thread not all roms are listed. My stock roms (1.016.01 and 1.139.04) for instance weren't - so I spent the last hour or two trying the "EUU gen1" listed at the bottom of the page. Well, it actually worked!! It gave me an OTA to 1.139.04 straight away. After that installed i got the 4.010.40 to 3.2 and then the next 2 for 3.2.1 - 7.006.03 and 7.014.15. So its given me the correct updates for my country AND kept my data and settings too.
SO, since you're on a Gen1 Rom this should work for you too, but still no gaurantee you will get the OTA to 3.2.1, no harm in trying though
btw timmydeans method is a gen2 rom so you can rule that out...
---------- Post added at 11:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:16 PM ----------
just came across this link for an update to stock 3.2.1 build 7.014.14 here - orignal thread here but you need cwm to install it....
unless you can make it into an update.zip???
but thats way outta my league,
moscow may be able to suggest something though
Thank you very much, your answers help a lot! Just a few precisions and I'll stop being a pain in the ass!
1. Typically, most people do not take OTA's when running a custom rom, as basically the OTA installs a totally fresh factory Rom. This is true with the 3.2.1 update, which contains a new bootloader. Usually, this means you lose root, and Recovery, then stuck with downgrading to get these things back.
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Click to collapse
==> @ Moscow, when you say "lose recovery" does it mean I lose the green thingy with gears when I start with volume down and power pressed/ and when I reset to factory settings?
==> @dibb_nz your method is the closest to what I'm looking for, I also hope it will give me the correct updates for my country and since Vache is a fellow countryman it might just be ok.
Anyways thanks again, I'll give a thorough look to all of your solutions and try and do a few things tomorrow afternoon. I'll keep you posted in case this thread interests anyone else.
lunaticwraith said:
==> @ Moscow, when you say "lose recovery" does it mean I lose the green thingy with gears when I start with volume down and power pressed/ and when I reset to factory settings?
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Click to collapse
No, what I meant to say, is when you run a rooted "custom" Rom, and use a "custom" recovery such as RA Recovery or CWM, getting an OTA update, usually wipes that out, and installs the factory bootloader. Your factory recovery....cough cough.... will still be there.
If you are only concerned about stock factory, then don't worry about it. You;re ok. Your factory/stock recovery will be just fine
The reason we root and install custom recoveries, is so we can do 3 primary things.
1. Flash a custom rom
2. Create a complete system backup to our external SD card.
3. Get rid of pre-installed useless apps.
There are other things we can do with it, but these are the primary reasons.
When you have a default factory stock system, the only protection you have, is a factory reset (hope it works), and a couple other methods which require a touch more knowledge.
Anyhow, don't worry about your factory recovery. It's just fine.
1) Just for the sake of knowledge what's the difference between GEN_1 and GEN_2? (and GEN3 and CUS7 and EMEA_TMLP)?
2) @Dibb_nz when you tried with the stock rom from Vache, was it because you encountered the same no FOTA update problem as I did? Or just to try...?
3) Something's still unclear to me after browsing through the forums: If I get an unmodified stock ROM can I flash it with the stock recovery? (so without rooting) Or do I need CWM (so root is needed)
4) What's EUU? (on Vache's thread some roms are listed as EUU)
lunaticwraith said:
1) Just for the sake of knowledge what's the difference between GEN_1 and GEN_2? (and GEN3 and CUS7 and EMEA_TMLP)?
2) @Dibb_nz when you tried with the stock rom from Vache, was it because you encountered the same no FOTA update problem as I did? Or just to try...?
3) Something's still unclear to me after browsing through the forums: If I get an unmodified stock ROM can I flash it with the stock recovery? (so without rooting) Or do I need CWM (so root is needed)
4) What's EUU? (on Vache's thread some roms are listed as EUU)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The Gen's usually signify regional based roms. More specifically language support, sometimes a wifi tweak, and maybe a couple other things. Mostly though, ComGen1's are for the US and probably canada, and offer about 12 different languages. TMPL is for East Europe mostly, with polish as the default language. All roms contain the english language as far as I know.
3. You basically can't install a full rom on an unrooted tablet without CWM or RA Recovery. You will have to run the update (decrypt the file, remove the update.zip)
4. EUU is a pc based install. Plug in the USB, set your tab to APX mode and run the EUU.
If you did the root, and install a custom recovery, then you could run just about all the full roms. Your custom recovery would be overwritten, and you would lose root access. You would have a stock tablet with the version rom you selected.
You can always wait a week or so. Am sure if the update has been pushed to your country, it's just a matter of time till you get it. It's common for the update process for specific roms, to get fully done in 2-3 weeks. It took well over a week just for users in california to mostly start getting updates.
Well the official release date for the ICS FOTA in France is May 3rd, so I'll wait until then but having other options and the know-how to take actions is always a good basis. (plus I'm really not the patient type ^^)
Stupid question but I'm guessing EUU needs root too?
and also APX means rebooting while holding power and volume - right?
lunaticwraith said:
Well the official release date for the ICS FOTA in France is May 3rd, so I'll wait until then but having other options and the know-how to take actions is always a good basis. (plus I'm really not the patient type ^^)
Stupid question but I'm guessing EUU needs root too?
and also APX means rebooting while holding power and volume - right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the EUU just to see if it would keep me on my regions OTA upgrade path.
Sometimes you can have probs OTA'ing if you aren't using the rom from your region.
But in this case it gave me the correct OTA's.
APX is Acer Download mode, where the OTA upgrades are flashed - this EUU will do it via your PC. Button push method (power/reset button) not required.
No, the EUU does not need root which is why I tried it out for you
You will need to be on 3.2.1 before you will receive the ICS update
I used this EUU from vaches thread -
EUUs_SBK_Acer_A500_1.016.05_COM_GEN1
late for work will check back later
That's really helpful thanks I'm downloading the same EUU you used and will try it today or tomorrow depending on how much time I have, will keep you posted!
Ok so I did the EUU install and it worked fine, the tablet then allowed me to upgrade to 3.01 and then 3.1 then 3.2 via FOTA without any problem. But once I reached 3.2, the update tool informs me that there's no update available and my gear is up to date
So my guess is Acer France are not pushing the 3.2.1 FOTA update anymore...
Any other explanation?
lunaticwraith said:
Ok so I did the EUU install and it worked fine, the tablet then allowed me to upgrade to 3.01 and then 3.1 then 3.2 via FOTA without any problem. But once I reached 3.2, the update tool informs me that there's no update available and my gear is up to date
So my guess is Acer France are not pushing the 3.2.1 FOTA update anymore...
Any other explanation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear u got thru the EUU process OK, not so great u still can't ota to 3.2.1
Others have reported similar issues not sure if/how they were ever resolved. As moscow posted earlier,ota,s are not made available to all users in all regions, all at once, so it may be just a matter of waiting for the next "push cycle" to roll round.
At least you know you can always get back to stock if you ever decide to root and go custom There no direct root method for 3.2, just use that same euu to get back to 3.1 and use iconia root and Acer recovery installer from the market and you're ready to flash your rom of choice
Pls post back if u do get the ota - best of luck
rgds Donna
Yeah I was just browsing the XDA forums, contemplating the idea to rollback and root and then installing this
I wonder if it's worth waiting for the OTA... as for what you said about waiting for the next "push cycle" I've been waiting since I got the tablet and the update hasn't come yet, which is strange because the ICS update is due on May 3rd in France and I'd guess they'd have everyone up to date and ready for the update by now!
Rooting seems pretty straightforward and much easier than what it was on my Samsung Galaxy Spica: I found this
, a file called iconiaroot.apk on the sdcard aswell, rebooting your tablet while pushing the volume down button so its starts flashing the buggy honeycomb version.
Then start up the tablet again, rush to the market, download some file manager, with that filemanager explore your sdcard, and install the iconiaroot.apk file, once thats done, rush back to the market and download and install acer recovery installer. At that point you will have CWM (clockworkmod) installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
is that all there is to it?
In any case I'll keep you posted just so it can help anyone with the same issue!
alsoe FYI and just for the anecdote: the reason I'm so cautious about everything and scared ****less of rooting is that the tablet is a present from my girlfriend for my 30th birthday, and she'll hang me with my guts if I brick it.
Ok I rooted and flashed the above-mentioned rom and it works! I'm now under 3.2.1!
Thanks to everyone who helped me! When the ICS update comes I will post here to signal how the FOTA went.
Thanks again!
Lol, good onya for taking the plunge! Yeh acer recovery installer is brilliant, along with iconia root, makes the whole process stress free.
Will be interesting to see if you get a notification for ICS OTA with that rom.
Can always flash one of the leaks if u get impatient??
Glad everything's worked out and yr g/f still talking 2 u
rgds Donna
thx! I will post here when/if I get the OTA. and my love life is safe thanksnto iconia root
okay so the ota has been rolling for over a week and a half now and still nothing for me
Unfortunately all the TWRP flashable roms from GetOffMyLawn&!+¢#{$ are dead and I need the stock rom for the MetroPCS variant. Anyone know where I can find it?
I think I mostly got to where I needed to go with the stock factory roms without using TWRP. After attempting and failing to make a flashable rip with Android Kitchen, I read about and saw a video on RSD Lite here youtube.com/watch?v=njXQYn53SPc (sorry can't hyperlink since my post count) It basically just quickly shows what it should look like and how it should work IF it works once setup. But it was good enough. The images I had were giving me failing to flash gpt and bootloader errors. So I manually took those complete lines out of both the flashfile.xml and the Servicefile.xml. After that it flashed everything and rebooted. To my surprise I'm not bricked and back on stock. I had to go back to enable Device Carrier Unlocking through the metropcs app (oops). Now I have to probly unlock the bootloader and root again but this time I'll make that backup
But if anyone has the flashable zips, a new upload would be nice for others.
unrooty said:
I think I mostly got to where I needed to go with the stock factory roms without using TWRP. After attempting and failing to make a flashable rip with Android Kitchen, I read about and saw a video on RSD Lite here youtube.com/watch?v=njXQYn53SPc (sorry can't hyperlink since my post count) It basically just quickly shows what it should look like and how it should work IF it works once setup. But it was good enough. The images I had were giving me failing to flash gpt and bootloader errors. So I manually took those complete lines out of both the flashfile.xml and the Servicefile.xml. After that it flashed everything and rebooted. To my surprise I'm not bricked and back on stock. I had to go back to enable Device Carrier Unlocking through the metropcs app (oops). Now I have to probly unlock the bootloader and root again but this time I'll make that backup
But if anyone has the flashable zips, a new upload would be nice for others.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Send me an untouched stock system.img, boot.img, and oem.img and I'll compile you a TWRP flashable ROM. If you're not sure how to dump partition images, the best way is to download an app called Partition Backup & Restore. It's a free app and was created by an XDA dev @wanam.
Hey, thanks for the offer. I'll do it. I have the img files that you need ripped and rared. Just been having some connection issues today while attempting to upload the file. I don't know how I should upload it so I'm going to use my google drive and share the link with you either here or by PM if I can't link it here due to the spam protection. Hopefully I'll have it to you within the next day if my connection becomes stable enough to upload.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1x65mPUAWWm1heQsDRpgm6QYnyyOIp8P5
Here you are MotoJunkie01, I decided to keep the extended name on the file to show exactly what Partition Backup and Restore spit out should there be something different that's needed.
unrooty said:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1x65mPUAWWm1heQsDRpgm6QYnyyOIp8P5
Here you are MotoJunkie01, I decided to keep the extended name on the file to show exactly what Partition Backup and Restore spit out should there be something different that's needed.
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Click to collapse
I made one yesterday. Read my guide carefully. Have fun. https://forum.xda-developers.com/mo...-stock-rom-t3777830/post76234878#post76234878
Quite the write up there, thank you for it it's very informative. But to be fair flashing through RSDLite it working for me so I suppose I'll stick with it. It seems more straightforward afaik.
unrooty said:
Quite the write up there, thank you for it it's very informative. But to be fair flashing through RSDLite it working for me so I suppose I'll stick with it. It seems more straightforward afaik.
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Click to collapse
Good choice. I, personally, don't see how that's a better option than just rsdlite. But to each his, or her, own. If you need no verity, magisk, and all the basics anyway, why not just flash the stock firmware. No risk involved.
unrooty said:
Quite the write up there, thank you for it it's very informative. But to be fair flashing through RSDLite it working for me so I suppose I'll stick with it. It seems more straightforward afaik.
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Click to collapse
Yep - seems a better choice. RSD Lite isn't the friendliness beast but it's not a bad ride once you understand the idiosyncrasies.