Hi, just enquiring can I install a 3.2 custom rooted rom over a stock 3.1 rooted rom? Or do I need to flash stock 3.2 as a base first?
Ash
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
-You don't need a base.
-On Custom ROM (you will Never Get a ACER OTA Update, you will not have ACER's Stock Recovery)
If on HC v3.1 STOCK (non rooted) You'll need to :
1. Download IconiaRoot 1.3.apk http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=648570&d=1310086702
2. Use any file Explorer (like ES File explorer) to install IconiaRoot. Root Tablet with this program (realize you are voiding warrenty)
3. from Market, download "Acer Recovery installer" Then run this app to install "ClockworkMod Recovery v1.34" (which will need ROOT to install CWM)
-Optional: Update to "CWM Recovery v1.6v2.zip" (later) http://www.mediafire.com/?idkrgvv22463v2d
If on ANY (rooted) ROM:
Reboot into CWM Recovery MOD : [Volume Down] + [POWER] long press.
(A) Backup and Restore -> Full Backup ->
(B) Wipe Menu -> Wipe... Cache, data (factory reset), dalvik-cache, battery stats
(C) Mounts and Storage Menu -> Format... System, data, cache, flexrom
(D) Install from Zip File -> Choose Zip File from SD Card -> {any ROM.zip, Superuser.zip, CWM Recovery v1.6v2.zip, etc}
(E) Reboot System.
***Read up on Custom ROM thread before you begin.
***Consult that custom ROM thread for Q+A
Thanks, i'm already running stock rooted 3.1. I don't care about the ota updates as they never worked from the start. I just add them manually anyway.
I'm asking about custom roms in general.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
me_ashman said:
Thanks, i'm already running stock rooted 3.1. I don't care about the ota updates as they never worked from the start. I just add them manually anyway.
I'm asking about custom roms in general.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To answer your question, no you do NOT need anything special and yes you can just flash over anything your want. Flashing in a ROM is like installing Windows on PC with installer CD's. Anything on your computer is gone, just like installing a custom ROM.
Hope this helps,
TD
timmyDean said:
To answer your question, no you do NOT need anything special and yes you can just flash over anything your want. Flashing in a ROM is like installing Windows on PC with installer CD's. Anything on your computer is gone, just like installing a custom ROM.
Hope this helps,
TD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This couldnt be more wrong.
First of all, you can upgrade windows and keep everything. If i'm running vista and have a 7 upgrade disk, i dont lose everything.
Second, different roms are designed for different things. You can flash stock 3.2 over stock 3.1 without a wipe and it will work just fine. You cant flash flexstriker over epiphany over thora rom over stock and expect it to work. You cam flash flexstriker r7 over flexstriker r6, but not over another rom.
You dont have to lose everything, dont listen to this guy.
nifterific said:
This couldnt be more wrong.
First of all, you can upgrade windows and keep everything. If i'm running vista and have a 7 upgrade disk, i dont lose everything.
Second, different roms are designed for different things. You can flash stock 3.2 over stock 3.1 without a wipe and it will work just fine. You cant flash flexstriker over epiphany over thora rom over stock and expect it to work. You cam flash flexstriker r7 over flexstriker r6, but not over another rom.
You dont have to lose everything, dont listen to this guy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The question was flashing not upgrading. So don't read into it. He's asking if he needs a certain base to load a custom ROM. That answer is NO.
You are reading to much into it.
Thanks guys, I've got it figured now.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
timmyDean said:
The question was flashing not upgrading. So don't read into it. He's asking if he needs a certain base to load a custom ROM. That answer is NO.
You are reading to much into it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Upgrades are flashed.
nifterific said:
Upgrades are flashed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No they are not. Not trying to make an argument here, so do not take it as one.
When you get an update, it replaces the boot.img and then runs scripts to update the system image. This is not normally considered a flash. Flashing, normally means using nvflash to load a ROM or image wiping the tablet totally clean.
If you mean that an update replaces the boot.img and the blob therefore it's a flash, then ok. But still the system image is only updated via scripts. This is how we hack an update.zip. We change the update scripts to add root and then re-zip it; therefore the update actually adds root.
Hope this helps clear things up, and remember we're all in this together so keep your stick on the ice.
Related
I have looked through all clockworkmod recovery topics, but it seems I am the only one with this issue?
I have a US Xoom wifi-only, HMJ37, with an official 3.1 OTA. Yesterday I unlocked my Xoom, flashed the latest Recovery image(but also a previous version) of CWM. Then I typed fastboot reboot and I could get into the CWM recovery. Nice, no problems. Then I rebooted again, everything works fine and my Xoom works fine. Then I reboot again in recovery and I suddenly get the stock Android Recovery! I flashed it again and the same problem, after the first reboot I have CWM. Reboot to android and reboot again in recovery and I get the stock Android recovery again!
Who knows what is going wrong here? What am I doing wrong or what can this be?
If you flashed CWM 3.2.0.0, that may be your problem. Look at this thread > http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1074979
Note in the last several pages that some posts were having the same problem as you. I flashed back to 3.0.2.8, and it solved my problem.
Thanks cam30era, I thought I have tried 3.0.2.8 already but I will give it a try this evening and let you know.
olafski72 said:
I have looked through all clockworkmod recovery topics, but it seems I am the only one with this issue?
I have a US Xoom wifi-only, HMJ37, with an official 3.1 OTA. Yesterday I unlocked my Xoom, flashed the latest Recovery image(but also a previous version) of CWM. Then I typed fastboot reboot and I could get into the CWM recovery. Nice, no problems. Then I rebooted again, everything works fine and my Xoom works fine. Then I reboot again in recovery and I suddenly get the stock Android Recovery! I flashed it again and the same problem, after the first reboot I have CWM. Reboot to android and reboot again in recovery and I get the stock Android recovery again!
Who knows what is going wrong here? What am I doing wrong or what can this be?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Without a rooted boot.img if will keep deleting The recovery. You can also delete the recovery-boot.p file from the system folder to stop it.
Sent From My Evo
olafski72 said:
Thanks cam30era, I thought I have tried 3.0.2.8 already but I will give it a try this evening and let you know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bwcorvus is right.
Sent from my ADR6300 using Tapatalk
I have flashed with 3.0.2.8, with my Xoom rooted. Again, the first attempt was succesfull, I came into the CWM menu. I rebooted again to Android. Rebooted with the Sirius Fastboot in Recovery, but there it was again, the stock recovery!
I have not deleted the recovery-from-boot.p since that sounds kind of scary? What can go wrong? When I delete it, that will stop the stock recovery and bring me into the CWM recovery?
Someone also told me I need a SDcard. Is this true and what should I do with it then? The img is on my PC in the same folder as the ADB tools. So why should I need the SDcard for then?
You must have a SD card for CWM.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
Thanks. So I don't need to do anything with it? Just stick it in there? Do I need to format it in some way? The SDcard is not supported in 3.1 yet, is it? I need the Tiamat kernel for it. But I cannot flash without the CWM. Or just stick it in there and flash recovery again? Which I did and again the first time it worked, after reboot it did not anymore and I am back to stock recovery.
When I reboot with Sirius to recovery, I still need USB debugging on but I do not need to attach it to my PC with the USB cable? I have tried it all, but just need to know to this ;-)
And what about deleting(renaming) recovery-from-boot.p ? Is it safe?
olafski72 said:
Thanks. So I don't need to do anything with it? Just stick it in there? Do I need to format it in some way? The SDcard is not supported in 3.1 yet, is it? I need the Tiamat kernel for it. But I cannot flash without the CWM. Or just stick it in there and flash recovery again? Which I did and again the first time it worked, after reboot it did not anymore and I am back to stock recovery.
When I reboot with Sirius to recovery, I still need USB debugging on but I do not need to attach it to my PC with the USB cable? I have tried it all, but just need to know to this ;-)
And what about deleting(renaming) recovery-from-boot.p ? Is it safe?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need the Tiamat kernel to be able to access the SD card from the OS, once it's booted. But you can access the SD card from CWM without the Tiamat kernel, although I don't know what good it would do you. If you really want to use this thing, you should root and install the Tiamat kernel.
There are lots of threads in the development section which will help you. Make sure that you read the appropriate thread(s) for your type of Xoom, and your country. If there is anything that you don't understand, be sure to ask questions in the appropriate thread.
cam30era said:
You need the Tiamat kernel to be able to access the SD card from the OS, once it's booted. But you can access the SD card from CWM without the Tiamat kernel, although I don't know what good it would do you. If you really want to use this thing, you should root and install the Tiamat kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I want to install the language pack and the Tiamat kernel. If I need to flash recovery again and again, this is quite annoying. I just want it to work ;-)
There are lots of threads in the development section which will help you. Make sure that you read the appropriate thread(s) for your type of Xoom, and your country. If there is anything that you don't understand, be sure to ask questions in the appropriate thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have looked, but did not find the same problem yet.
And what about renaming recovery-from-boot.p ? I read other topics about it as well, but still anxious to do so.
olafski72 said:
I want to install the language pack and the Tiamat kernel. If I need to flash recovery again and again, this is quite annoying. I just want it to work ;-)
I have looked, but did not find the same problem yet.
And what about renaming recovery-from-boot.p ? I read other topics about it as well, but still anxious to do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We have a misunderstanding. You need to root your Xoom and install a Tiamat kernel to get SDCard support. You need to refer to the appropriate thread(s) in the development section to do this. You need to find a thread that is for your country, your type of Xoom (3g+wifi, or wifi only), and the version of Honeycomb that is currently running on your Xoom (3.0 or 3.1). Hope this helps.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
We have a misunderstanding. You need to root your Xoom and install a Tiamat kernel to get SDCard support.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm, I have copied the language pack zip file on my sdcard(via my PC and my X10 phone :-D ) and then put it back in my Xoom. I have not the Tiamat kernel yet. This is a Xoom US wifi version, HMJ37, it came with 3.0 but I got 3.1 OTA(although I live in the Netherlands). Then I flashed CWM and rebooted in recovery. I choose to install zip from SDcard and the language pack.zip was there. With CWM I probably CAN browse on my SD without the Tiamat. I installed and rebooted. Unfortunately it got stuck in the animation screen. I rebooted (power button and vol up button) and when Motorola logo showed I pressed vol down. I came in the stock recovery again and did a factory reset. This worked fine and it reboot again. When I went through the wizard succesfully, it surprised me too that the language pack was succesfully installed. I have a Dutch version now and finally a Dutch dictionary for my keyboard. And I am very happy.
Since I have put the Tiamat kernel on my sdcard as well, I could flash the Tiamat kernel the same way. I can flash CWM again(AGAIN!) and install the ZIP from the SD like I did with the language pack. But I am a bit scared to do so.... yet
You need to follow the instructions in this thread > http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1078019
Read the OP, and make sure that you fully understand it. If you have questions, be sure to ask them on that thread. If you decide to proceed, be sure that you understand and follow EXACTLY each step. No shortcuts.
Also, you should not go any further if you can not afford (emotionally or financially) to brick your Xoom. While it is unlikely to happen, you must accept that it could happen before you proceed.
Good luck.
Thanks, I will look at the thread. I think I have all requirements (3.1, root, wifi only, us model) to do it. But I certainly will have a look. I don't wanna brick my Xoom and go boom.
I have just read this link you posted, but this is about rooting?! I have unlocked and rooted my 3.1 already like this. With a different root tool, but in the same way. That is not the issue. The issue is that I can(!) flash CWM and the first(!) time I reboot I can(!) enter CWM and do all you can in CWM. After I reboot again and go to recovery, the stock Android recovery is back.
The only thing I want is the Tiamat kernel now. It is on my sdcard. So I will flash CWM one more time, reboot into recovery again, and then flash the tiamat kernel into it. But I am in doubt whether I should. I will sleep over it.
Bu the main problem, as mentioned in topic subject, is that CWM will(!) install succesfully and starts the first time, but disappears after the first reboot (in CWM).
Sorry, I didn't understand from your previous posts that you were rooted. Follow the instructions in the OP for the Tiamat 1.4.4 kernel thread.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
No problem, Thanks for all your help. In here the same problem is described: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=761398
Although in here the problem is a Nexus and no Xoom. But they also talk about renaming this file bwcorvus mentioned in the first page. But like I already asked a few times what the risks are of deleting this file? A shame bwcorvus does not answer anymore, maybe he knows? That would then solve the CWM issue.
For the Tiamat flash, I will have a look at the thread.
Thanks again for all your help!
You could do a nandroid backup (in CWM) and then delete the file. If things go badly, you should be able to boot into recovery and restore.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
That is a good one. But I was just thinking, after the second reboot CWM disappears, so I can't restore
I have to think about this.
olafski72 said:
No problem, Thanks for all your help. In here the same problem is described: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=761398
Although in here the problem is a Nexus and no Xoom. But they also talk about renaming this file bwcorvus mentioned in the first page. But like I already asked a few times what the risks are of deleting this file? A shame bwcorvus does not answer anymore, maybe he knows? That would then solve the CWM issue.
For the Tiamat flash, I will have a look at the thread.
Thanks again for all your help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There can be no problems from removing it. If you are truly scarred just rename it rec.bak. Its just a text file that runs at boot to make sure the recovery is stock. If its not, it makes it stock.
Sent From My Evo
Acer Recovery Installer from the app store says it is a brainless install of CWM for our device. Has anyone had any luck using it to install Primee or any other ROM?
Dunno if right forum but works great, I myself installed newest Clockworkmod from sdcard using this. I suggest you download newest version from here. And name it as recovery.img on you sdcard then install that one using Acer Recovery Installer
EDIT: Have tested PRIMEE and PICASSO both working great. Ask if you need more help.
Thanks for the feedback! i am blown away that now with 2 apps, you can have a rooted custom rom on the a500. go devs!
(I was unsure if it went here or apps, mods feel free to move it or kill it entirely.)
Yes it does work!!! Perfectly!!
I used the Acer Recovery Installer and it was SOOO EASY!!! I was able to flash PRIMEE AND the PICASSO ROM's so they do work.
Just FYI though, if your RECOVERY is not able to MOUNT THE SD CARD then try to use another one because it is very touchy... Not even re-formatting makes it recognize it... I dont know if its a limit to the size but I used an 8gb sandisk and it did not recognize, but my 1gb sandisk ran just fine with it... jejeje
Just my 2 cents... jejeje
I also have used this to install the PICASSA rom. Very easy! No hassle whatsoever
Sent from my A500 using Tapatalk
thomas.ross89 said:
I also have used this to install the PICASSA rom. Very easy! No hassle whatsoever
Sent from my A500 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just want to make sure how to get back to stock if I need to send it to repair center. If I backup the old recovery using the recovery install app, and do a full backup using CWM recovery, can I return to stock simply by restore the full backup and the old recovery? Thanks!
goder42 said:
Acer Recovery Installer from the app store says it is a brainless install of CWM for our device. Has anyone had any luck using it to install Primee or any other ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol what is so brainless about it, i have used adb to install through command and used the recovery installer, only difference i seen was the recovery installer was much faster no need to type commands to flash. and the installer makes it simple to roll back if needed
lamchei said:
I just want to make sure how to get back to stock if I need to send it to repair center. If I backup the old recovery using the recovery install app, and do a full backup using CWM recovery, can I return to stock simply by restore the full backup and the old recovery? Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even I would like to know the same. I am now on the Prime ROM and have taken the full backup of the existing stock ROM.
Thanks
lamchei said:
I just want to make sure how to get back to stock if I need to send it to repair center. If I backup the old recovery using the recovery install app, and do a full backup using CWM recovery, can I return to stock simply by restore the full backup and the old recovery? Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely correct. Do full cwm restore, to get back to stock rom. Then use this app to restore your stock recovery that you backed up. On a side note, if /system/install-recovery.sh in your stock rom is still executable (enabled), then stock recovery will be restored automatically.
Sent from my A500 using Tapatalk
Rev 1.3.4 Question
Jomppe said:
Dunno if right forum but works great, I myself installed newest Clockworkmod from sdcard using this. I suggest you download newest version from here. And name it as recovery.img on you sdcard then install that one using Acer Recovery Installer
EDIT: Have tested PRIMEE and PICASSO both working great. Ask if you need more help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the noob question but there are two 1.3.4 archive files: update-recovery-thor2002ro-rev1.3.4.zip and recovery-thor2002ro-rev1.3.4.rar. I downloaded and opened both and while they both contain recovery.img the zip file has the image in a CWM folder.
Does it matter which one I use and do I need to extract recovery.img or simply rename the entire archive to recovery.img?
Thanks for the help...
rg1003 said:
Sorry for the noob question but there are two 1.3.4 archive files: update-recovery-thor2002ro-rev1.3.4.zip and recovery-thor2002ro-rev1.3.4.rar. I downloaded and opened both and while they both contain recovery.img the zip file has the image in a CWM folder.
Does it matter which one I use and do I need to extract recovery.img or simply rename the entire archive to recovery.img?
Thanks for the help...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure the image in both are the same (correct me if I'm mistaken). The zip is packaged to be run as an update from within clockworkmod. Whereas the rar file just as the image for you to flash manually (or with Acer Recovery Installer), which now has 1.3.4 built-in.
Euclid's Brother said:
I'm pretty sure the image in both are the same (correct me if I'm mistaken). The zip is packaged to be run as an update from within clockworkmod. Whereas the rar file just as the image for you to flash manually (or with Acer Recovery Installer), which now has 1.3.4 built-in.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks like images contained in the files are the same (same file size anyway). Moot point now since as you pointed out the new version has 1.3.4 built in - but thanks for taking the time to respond.
Bit of a noob questions, would i still need to root my iconia for this to work?
Rana1 said:
Bit of a noob questions, would i still need to root my iconia for this to work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes... can't do any major customization w/o root.
Euclid's Brother said:
Yes... can't do any major customization w/o root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
guys when im trying to make a full back up its giving error while backing up the data file i donno but when its done im checking the folder its showing data around 6 mb image file and recovery, system more than 370 mb
so is it ok if i made restore or it will give error ? ?
thanks...
demmo81 said:
guys when im trying to make a full back up its giving error while backing up the data file i donno but when its done im checking the folder its showing data around 6 mb image file and recovery, system more than 370 mb
so is it ok if i made restore or it will give error ? ?
thanks...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you backing up to the micro sd or the usb? I was getting an error backing up data to usb. Not sure why it would have a problem, but I was only able to do a backup to micro sd.
Euclid's Brother said:
Are you backing up to the micro sd or the usb? I was getting an error backing up data to usb. Not sure why it would have a problem, but I was only able to do a backup to micro sd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm backing up on the SD card but it happened 2 times now so I'm afraid to put the leaked 3.1 version now bcz maybe it ll give error restoring :-( also I it ll not over write the back up right? . Thanks for the help
Sent from my A500 using Tapatalk
Use With "Official 3.1"
The Market installs version 1.5. As I updated to the "Official 3.1" , can I assume that Recovery Installer 1.5 will install CWM on my Iconia and then I can install other ROM's? If so, any special precautions (aside from backup)?
docfreed said:
The Market installs version 1.5. As I updated to the "Official 3.1" , can I assume that Recovery Installer 1.5 will install CWM on my Iconia and then I can install other ROM's? If so, any special precautions (aside from backup)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will install CWM just fine, as long as you tell it to do that. If you don't, it won't.
As for precautions. Yes, absolutely yes, back up your current ROM from within CWM before flashing a new one. There have been WAY too many complete planks begging for help in restoring to stock lately because they either can't read, or think they know best, and didn't bother backing up.
I didn't make a backup because my Acer had German only language and I wanted to flash Official English rom in any case.
But could someone tell me what was the rom version that cam with Acer in the UK?
Was it COM_GEN1 or something else. I doubt that I'll return to stock (ever) but it would be nice to know.
i wanted to know if i can downgrade from 3.1 stock to 3.0.1 using acer recovery tool. I want to downgrade because some of the apps that i would like to use keep force crashing on 3.1. i have tried reinstalling the apps and nothing works.
brewmaster said:
i wanted to know if i can downgrade from 3.1 stock to 3.0.1 using acer recovery tool. I want to downgrade because some of the apps that i would like to use keep force crashing on 3.1. i have tried reinstalling the apps and nothing works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
see this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1113878
i dont see why you wouldn't be able to.
brewmaster said:
i wanted to know if i can downgrade from 3.1 stock to 3.0.1 using acer recovery tool. I want to downgrade because some of the apps that i would like to use keep force crashing on 3.1. i have tried reinstalling the apps and nothing works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you made a nandroid backup using clockworkmod (you should have), just do a full restore. ba-da-bing.
The acer recovery tool you mention is just for installing clockworkmod, it won't install a rom itself. clockwork mod does that.
i didn't create a backup so i guess i'm out of luck.
brewmaster said:
i didn't create a backup so i guess i'm out of luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe you are not... Dexter provided a stock rom on his first post here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1121790
Check this post. flashing those 4 files (don't forget itsmagic), will put you at version 1.104.02_GEN1_COM (U.S. Stock).
Skip flashing the recovery if you don't want to lose ClockworkMod.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=14967064&postcount=206
If you want a specific version, ask someone to uplaod a ClockworkMod backup of boot, system and flexrom and use ClockworkMod to restore it.
thanks euclid. I might try this later but i can't figure out itsmagic. I installed the clockworkmod recovery with acer recovery installer. Can i just boot into recovery after that and have itsmagic work?
edit: i got its magic running then did the steps in the post minus the recovery. when it was done the device rebooted and got stuck on the acer logo. after that i booted into clockwork and installed the 3.1 update.zip and now my tablet is working fine again.
Well, flashing a custom ROM on our beloved Iconias became quite easy now thanks to developers on xda. Most of you are quite familiar with the procedure but there are still people that ask basic things all over the ROM developement threads. This is just a beginner's guide, an attempt to collect all the procedures and tools in one thread. Nothing of this is my work and I would like to say THANK YOU to sc2k, thor2002ro, Euclid's Brother, Chainfire, monki-magic, drellisdee, ezterry, Skrilax_CZ, gersma and all A500 developers for making this possible.
You will need the following: external SD card, root rights, unlocked bootloader (if you're on stock ICS), custom recovery and a custom ROM of your choice.
Well lets start by placing an SD card in the SD card expansion slot. Its file system should be FAT32!
*This is optional: To be sure it is recognized later in CWM, format it first with SD Formatter - a tool that can be downloaded from here. Use your home computer / notebook with a card reader for this procedure. Alternatively you can do this using an ANDROID phone.
1.ROOT
Root for Honeycomb 3.0.1 by monki-magic
original thread by Slowie911 here
1. Make sure usb debugging is turned on and unknown sources is selected in Applications settings.
2. Have a micro sd card inserted and turn the tablet on portrait mode and lock it with the switch to fix it in portrait.
3. Download and execute the attached apk. (i had to download from my comp and transfer to the tablet for it to work).
4. Once the apk is installed run the root procedure within the app which was installed
5. Wait and you will receive full root access.
Download Gingerbreak 1.20
Root for Honeycomb 3.1 by sc2k thread here
1. Goto Settings->Applications and enable "Unkown sources"
2. Download the attached APK file
3. Copy the file to your Iconia
4. Install the APK & start the tool
5. Click "root"
6. Enjoy
/IconiaRoot should work on both 3.0.x and 3.1/
Download Iconiaroot 1.3
Root for Honeycomb 3.2.x OTA
Unfortunately there's no dedicated rooting app yet developed for HC3.2. It also comes with a new bootloader. In order to get root you need to revert to an older version of Honeycomb first where Iconiaroot works. How to do that is explained in details in this thread
UPDATE: if you're on OTA HC 3.2.x then you can just update to ICS and use the method for rooting ICS - links posted below
Root for ICS 4.x.x OTA
Stock ICS Leak One-Click Root Tool by blackthund3r
or
Full root for A500 ICS 4.0.3 - Simple method, posted by ZeroNull
2. Bootloader
Since there are many new ICS custom ROMs and custom recoveries, please read in their dedicated threads if they require ICS bootloader. Some of the ROMs can recognize the version of your bootloader and load the proper boot.img during boot. In general - if you're on Honeycomb - you have HC bootloader. If you've updated OTA to ICS, then you have stock ICS bootloader, that is unusable for flashing custom ROMs and therefore you need the unlocked bootloader. A guide on how to install it read here - thanks civato. This thread links to a nice little piece of software (option 1) by gersma that can automatically do all the job for you - install ICS unlocked bootloader and custom recovery. Read and download here - AfterOTA by gersma
3.Custom recovery
original thread with clockworkmod recovery by thor2002ro here
1. Open Market app with your tablet and search for Acer Recovery Installer.
Acer recovery installer
2. Install it and then open it. It has ClockworkMod Recovery by thor2002ro rev1.3.4 built-in.
3. Select "ClockworkMod Recovery rev.1.3.4 by thor2002ro". Tap on install Recovery Image. A popup offering to backup current recovery image will appear. Surely, buckup! Thus you can restore your original recovery image in case of need. Then CWM will be installed. Once it is installed you can remove Acer Recovery Installer tool from your system if you want.
thor2002ro updated CWM to 1.7.3. You can download the zip from tegraowners.com. Later versions of his recovery does not meet GPL because of the "mini" kernel of his - sources not being released. It supports flashing both from internal memory and the external SD card. In order to update your CWM to this latest version, place the downloaded ZIP on your external sd card and update from your CWM by choosing install zip from sd card. Alternatively you can extract the recovery.img from the zip, place it on your external sd card and install it through Acer Recovery Installer by choosing Custom or Stock recovery.img from micro sdcard.
GPL compliant recoveries
RA Revamped for Iconia
TeamWin Recovery Project (twrp) - needs ICS bootloader
A500 Public Recovery
Since the creation of AfterOTA by gersma, you can use his software to install both the bootloader and CWM before flashing the ROM. Get it HERE
4. Flashing custom ROM
Download the ROM of your choice which should be a zip file. Place the zip on your EXTERNAL SD card. Power off your device. Now hold volume down and power buttons together until you see text appearing on the top left corner of the screen - you can release both buttons now. Wait until CWM loads. Volume keys (Up and Down) are used to navigate the CWM menu. Power button is uded as "Enter" i.e. to proceed with your selection. Before going on to install your ROM do a full backup of your system first. Navigate to "backup and restore" and then select Full Backup. Wait untill the operation completes.
Now do the following:
Wipe menu:
- wipe data/factory reset -> navigate to "Yes - delete all user data"
this should format you data partition and cache partition (dalvik cache is gone as well)
Mounts and storage menu
- Format System
this should format your system partition
The above commands are presented in thor's CWM. There are slightly different menus and sub-menus in the other custom recoveries but if you dig a little you'll find that they do the same things and you'll get the idea of what you're doing.
Now you're ready to install your ROM. Get back to the main CWM menu and select
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
Navigate to your zip on the SD card and install it - choose "Yes" again to install. Wait untill installation is complete, return to the main CWM menu and choose "reboot system now".
You're done, enjoy your first custom ROM. Take time for its initial configuration.
5. Flashing custom KERNEL
Flashing custom kernel is as same as custom ROM. You place the zip (Kernels come in zip files as well) on your external SD card and:
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
It is recommended before flashing a new kernel to wipe cache partition and dalvik cache. And of course first you flash the ROM and then the desired Kernel
6. UNBRICKING by flashing a stock ROM
thanks to vache we have full packages shared in his topic
vache said:
Once the desired file downloaded, you have to use Acer Update Decryter by thor2002ro to decrypt them.
After decrypting the file, you have to extract the update.zip from it, put it on an external SDCard (does not work on internal memory) and boot your tablet with Vol- & Power. The update will launch automatically.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
p.s. Feel free to add stuff to this tutorial - video, pistures or anything you find useful or to correct me if I've made a mistake.
This is fantastic. Thank you. I have had my iconia for a month now and been looking at flashing a custom rom but kept backing out. Just a couple of questions for clarification:
(1). Does wiping data erase the internal sd?
(2). If by some stroke of bad luck a flash is unsuccessful and a boot loop or similar occurs, am I right in my understanding that you can just go straight back into recovery and re-flash?
(3). What are the chances of bricking the tablet?
Sorry for noon questions, please just wanna certain because my gf bought me this tablet under the condition I don't do anything risky like on my x10 that I flash almost daily haha
Thanks for replies
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
kylec said:
This is fantastic. Thank you. I have had my iconia for a month now and been looking at flashing a custom rom but kept backing out. Just a couple of questions for clarification:
(1). Does wiping data erase the internal sd?
(2). If by some stroke of bad luck a flash is unsuccessful and a boot loop or similar occurs, am I right in my understanding that you can just go straight back into recovery and re-flash?
(3). What are the chances of bricking the tablet?
Sorry for noon questions, please just wanna certain because my gf bought me this tablet under the condition I don't do anything risky like on my x10 that I flash almost daily haha
Thanks for replies
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. No, it doesn't.
2. Yes. You can do that. There's another option in mounts and storage -> format system - that will format even your system partition and leave your device bare with no ROM files on it. That would be a really clean install I guess
EDIT: I just saw that system is formatted during ROM installation. So no need to do that
3. Always read first what option you've selected and be sure you understand what it does. If you have CWM successfully installed, you have a powerfull tool to restore reflash, wipe, format etc. I've flashed my HD2 hundreds of times and now my Iconia is on the run Never ever had a boot failiure.
drkalo said:
1. No, it doesn't.
2. Yes. You can do that. There's another option in mounts and storage -> format system - that will format even your system partition and leave your device bare with no ROM files on it. That would be a really clean install I guess
3. Always read first what option you've selected and be sure you understand what it does. If you have CWM successfully installed, you have a powerfull tool to restore reflash, wipe, format etc. I've flashed my HD2 hundreds of times and now my Iconia is on the run Never ever had a boot failiure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much. I will click thanks when I'm on my computer :-D
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
VERY good information here. Thank you very much for taking the time.
I've flashed ROMS on my last two "chinatabs" but haven't gotten into it with my A500 yet. (To be frank, I'm still thrilled with the prospect of OTA updates from a manufacturer after my last experiences.)
It looks like the process is very similar to my Rena3 tablet.
strider_mt2k said:
VERY good information here. Thank you very much for taking the time.
I've flashed ROMS on my last two "chinatabs" but haven't gotten into it with my A500 yet. (To be frank, I'm still thrilled with the prospect of OTA updates from a manufacturer after my last experiences.)
It looks like the process is very similar to my Rena3 tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, that lays it out all nice and precise for us all. Like strider_mt2k, I have been holdng off on the custom ROMs, because my first tablet was a Gtab, and while it became a pretty awesome tablet, it had to be flashed with a custom ROM to be really usable. The OTA thing was holding me back. But I think that I may try to flash the thing this weekend if I get the chance.
Thanks. Glad it could be of use.
nice tutorial dude! thanks!!
could you please make another tutorial to return back to stock?
specially to return back to stock te kernel.
thanks!!!
As mentioned, best case is if you've backed up your device before flashing any ROM or Kernel. Thus you can restore to your country specific version.
Otherwise its pretty simple - its just like flashing any other ROM following the steps described.
Download the stock one that dr1337 shared from here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1154492
or choose the right full package - shared by vache:
decript it with Acer update decripter by thor2002ro
Of course they come with stock kernel
I am new in this with flashing and that kind of stuff.
Now is my question, how is it with updates from acer?
Greetz
distructor said:
How is it with updates from acer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure I understand your question. Could you be more specific?
if i put a custom rom on the device could i still use the build in update program of acer?
distructor said:
if i put a custom rom on the device could i still use the build in update program of acer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I can not tell you for sure. I haven't tried all of the custom ROMs but in most cases - no you won't be able. I've tried Tabooney, Honeyvillain, Virtuous Picasso, Virtuous Galaxy. ROM developers usually update their ROMs to the latest base available. I think it depends on many things - base, kernel, stock apps removed etc.
Maybe someone who have succeeded with custom ROM updating would share his experience.
Can anyone tell me if there is a version of ROM manager that supports the version of CWM that there is for the Iconia. I would love to be able to simplify my ability to backup my ROM's before flashing.
synapses11 said:
Can anyone tell me if there is a version of ROM manager that supports the version of CWM that there is for the Iconia. I would love to be able to simplify my ability to backup my ROM's before flashing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can install a clockworkmod for Iconia no matter of the version of ROM manager. But it is much much easier to use Acer Recovery Installer. I recommend you using it instead of playing with recovery img files. It is a one time procedure after all
Anyway - here's what you need to do if you don't want to use Acer recovery installer, or you don't want to use ADB:
http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/how-to-install-clockworkmod-recovery-3-using-rom-manager/
instead of CWM 3.x you will need to get CWM from thor2002ro In this guide you substitute the recovery that ROM Manager is about to flash with thor's CWM. I haven't tried this method myself but it should work.
With Acer Recovery Installer you can flash custom recovery as well. As long as you have it in IMG format you can be flashed from within the app - "install custom or stock recovery image from sd card".
great thread.
thanks!!!
Great Tutorial!!!
Just a couple of doubts:
First question: Backup files.
3. Flashing custom ROM
"...Before going on to install your ROM do a full backup of your system first. Navigate to "backup and restore" and then select Full Backup. Wait untill the operation completes. "
Where do the backup files go in the system? On internal or external SD card? Is it an *.img file extension?
Should i move it to my computer to keep it save, or just leave it where ever they are?
Second question: Kernel.
4. Flashing custom KERNEL
"Flashing custom kernel is as same as custom ROM. You place the zip (Kernels come in zip files as well) on your external SD card and:
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
It is recommended before flashing a new kernel to wipe cache partition and dalvik cache. And of course first you flash the ROM and then the desired Kernel"
I am on Stock 3.1 ROM with original Kernel, if i want to try Virtuos Picasso, do i have to flash a new Kernel? And if yes, shouldn't i do it before flashing the ROM? Or just flash the ROM and then the Kernel? What happens if i just flash the Rom and use the stock kernel?
Thank you..
Your backup goes to your external SD card in a folder named clockworkmod\backup\2011-XX-XX.HH.MM.SS
As you can guess the name of the backup corresponds to the time it is created. This backup can be used to restore your system through CWM in case of need.
CWM does not backup /data/media folder. Additionally: you should also delete .android_secure.img from your backup set or a full restore will fail before it restores flexrom.
The last is an issue described by Euclid's brother:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=16467191&postcount=3
I am on Stock 3.1 ROM with original Kernel, if i want to try Virtuos Picasso, do i have to flash a new Kernel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, of course! Your custom ROM (Virtuous Picasso in your example) and any ROM comes with its Kernel. Its up to you to decide wheather to change it or not after that by flashing another Kernel. Follow every Kernel developer's notes for ROM compatibility. So, that answers the last part of your question - you cannot flash Virtuous Picasso and still think you're on stock kernel
drkalo said:
No, of course! Your custom ROM (Virtuous Picasso in your example) and any ROM comes with its Kernel. Its up to you to decide wheather to change it or not after that by flashing another Kernel. Follow every Kernel developer's notes for ROM compatibility. So, that answers the last part of your question - you cannot flash Virtuous Picasso and still think you're on stock kernel
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, i see...i thought that the flashing ROM procedure of a custom ROM, would just flash the ROM and not the Kernel...so in this case i just have to choose the ROM that i want to flash and do not have to pay attention about the Kernel compatibility...unless i flash a Kernel only. Right?
Thank you very much!!
That is correct
Got ICS, OTA (download) installed that no problem, downloaded the acer usb drivers and used ICS Root (blackthund3r). Now i want to install LightSpeed 4.4 (i know theres a newer version) I renamed it update.zip and did the power button + V- button but it says invalid image.
Now im a bit confused cause all this android stuff is new to me, I have the acer recovery installed but im not sure what to do with it. Tried renaming it to recovery.img it says it is flashing but nothing happens.
Kinda lost at what to do or how to get this rom working.... if someone could point me in the right direction it would be sweet
Fox
foxorroxors said:
I renamed it update.zip and did the power button + V- button but it says invalid image.
Fox
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. That was pretty n00b of ya (that little trick only works on signed official roms, and even then, only ify-ify)
Check this thread. It has the tools you need.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
You can skip the part about installing an ICS rom and rooting. You already did that. You need to do steps 1, 2, (partial 4) 5 or 6 basically.
Note after you rooted. Look at step 4 and delete the required file like it says, before going to steps 5 or 6. You have an option on which package to use. Personally, I like the exe package. But your choice.
This installs patched b-loader and CWM recovery so you can flash ICS only Roms.
Easy
As you've Acer Recovery why the difficult way ? Just choose "Download / Install Roms, tick Lightspeed 4.4 in the left column, hit download and then install.
(i've version 2.74)
Fast, easy and no problems. I flashed Flexreaper 14 (now replaced by Flexreaper ICS RF1) and i can recommend it, the Rom and the way of flashing it.
urbie47 said:
As you've Acer Recovery why the difficult way ? Just choose "Download / Install Roms, tick Lightspeed 4.4 in the left column, hit download and then install.
(i've version 2.74)
Fast, easy and no problems. I flashed Flexreaper 14 (now replaced by Flexreaper ICS RF1) and i can recommend it, the Rom and the way of flashing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Acer recovery is fine if it'll install the patched Bootloader.
However, it doesn't make a user get his UID number, which is essential in case something happens in the future. Without your UID, you're basically toasted Or you're in for the long haul in figuring out how to unbrick a tab.
help
I need help for boot loader.I tried to put ICS boot loader v3, I didn't success and now I can't put another rom(I have ICS for A500 but I use A501 and it doesn't work 3G modem).How I can put other rom?
Erasing cache before SD update...
SD update cmd recovery
--update_package=SDCARD:update.zip
Booting recovery kernel image
Recovery verified failed...
ores992 said:
I need help for boot loader.I tried to put ICS boot loader v3, I didn't success and now I can't put another rom(I have ICS for A500 but I use A501 and it doesn't work 3G modem).How I can put other rom?
Erasing cache before SD update...
SD update cmd recovery
--update_package=SDCARD:update.zip
Booting recovery kernel image
Recovery verified failed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't run that update.zip like you did. You got the error message.
Can you still boot into the 500 Rom? If so, you need to install a CWM Recovery before you can flash custom Roms. Look at the link below for instructions for CWM installation.
If you can't boot into your System, then you will need to do everything again.
You should still have your UID number when you tried to NVFlash the ver3 bootloader (I hope you wrote that number down)
You need to probably re-install the ver3 bootloader again as your attempt to install an update.zip messed things up. You just can't do it that way. So go here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1622425
Only this time, follow the instructions. You need to install CWM recovery. This is how to flash Roms, not putting update.zips on the SD card. And BTW, you should delete that update.zip from Your EXT SD Card. It will cause problems.
Also note, in those instructions, if you installed the FULL 500 ROM, you must delete a certain boot-p file before you install CWM Recovery. Or else it will delete it when you reboot the tab. Again, read the instructions.
The above steps install a 500 rom. The 500 DOES NOT have 3g like a 501. This is why you had no 3g. You have to install a 501 ICS Rom after, through CWM Recovery, and, currently, I have the only ICS Rom for the 501. And... it's a Beta release from Acer. But it works ok mostly.
Read the instructions, and understand exactly what you are doing. Also remember, with ver3 ICS Bootloader, YOU CANNOT INSTALL HC BASED ROMS without going back to an HC based bootloader. ICS Roms only. (unless you want to go back to stock).
Moscow Desire said:
You can't run that update.zip like you did. You got the error message.
Can you still boot into the 500 Rom? If so, you need to install a CWM Recovery before you can flash custom Roms. Look at the link below for instructions for CWM installation.
If you can't boot into your System, then you will need to do everything again.
You should still have your UID number when you tried to NVFlash the ver3 bootloader (I hope you wrote that number down)
You need to probably re-install the ver3 bootloader again as your attempt to install an update.zip messed things up. You just can't do it that way. So go here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1622425
Only this time, follow the instructions. You need to install CWM recovery. This is how to flash Roms, not putting update.zips on the SD card. And BTW, you should delete that update.zip from Your EXT SD Card. It will cause problems.
Also note, in those instructions, if you installed the FULL 500 ROM, you must delete a certain boot-p file before you install CWM Recovery. Or else it will delete it when you reboot the tab. Again, read the instructions.
The above steps install a 500 rom. The 500 DOES NOT have 3g like a 501. This is why you had no 3g. You have to install a 501 ICS Rom after, through CWM Recovery, and, currently, I have the only ICS Rom for the 501. And... it's a Beta release from Acer. But it works ok mostly.
Read the instructions, and understand exactly what you are doing. Also remember, with ver3 ICS Bootloader, YOU CANNOT INSTALL HC BASED ROMS without going back to an HC based bootloader. ICS Roms only. (unless you want to go back to stock).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but that link is dead
ores992 said:
Thanks, but that link is dead
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, XDA did some cleaning up overnight. Try it now;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
MD