Database Users

[Q] Take 7.014.1 update before rooting ?

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.

Important/Urgent: Who has a STOCK Verizon tab 7.7 (SCH-i815)

I need help! I need a stock, unmodified recovery partition image.
Anyone here with a vzw tab who DOES NOT yet have CWM installed?.
PLEASE contact me.
Thanks!

electron73 said:
I need help! I need a stock, unmodified recovery partition image.
Anyone here with a vzw tab who DOES NOT yet have CWM installed?.
PLEASE contact me.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have one that hasn't been moded but have no idea how to get you what you want. PM me if you know how to download and send to you and I'll do my best to help.

I'll check my laptop at home tonight. I believe I kept my heimdall backup before flashing cwm
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk 2
Just checked, mightve deleted it. Sorry man

aximtreo said:
I have one that hasn't been moded but have no idea how to get you what you want. PM me if you know how to download and send to you and I'll do my best to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh that would be awesome! Are you rooted? Let me find the commands in the meantime, I read somewhere it's a simple one command in terminal to extract the recovery partition into a file on sd card...

WHAT AN ORDEAL !!!!
But in the end: SUCCESS!
I managed to get my tab updated with the Verizon OTA update.
The problem is definitely CWM !!! A rude awakening is in store for everyone with the P6800 CWM installed, because it a) fails to verify the checksum of OTA files correctly on the i815, b) it thinks the tablet is a P6800, so the OTA file fails to run if it assert checks for "SCH-i815" hardware AND lastly c) modem updates don't work because the device /dev/cdma_update doesn't exist, so the modem.bin firmware_update call fails !!!
In short, I had to fumble the OTA file apart and do the update manually in two runs:
First file, kick the checksum, hardware check and modem update out, then manually run the ZIP through CWM. The zip subsequently (LUCKILY) updated the stock recovery and overwrote CWM with a new fresh stock recovery.
Second file had everything kicked out BUT the modem udpate and LTE patch, so with the STOCK recovery this file ran through just fine, updated the modem and then applied the LTE delta patch.
Phew!!!
Of course I had to manually restore root after the update, had backed up with voodoo, auto restore failed, so terminal and hacking it was...
Now I have the tab running on clean stock FD01, baseband and LTE FD01, rooted and stock recovery.
No more CWM, no more "hacking" with the ROM until some dev finally releases a "correct" CWM and at least ANY factory ODIN image is available to bring the tab back to stock if needed!!!
Kinda sick of the non-support for this tab. So much going on for the Galaxy Note and pretty much every other device. I'm starting to regret having bought this "special" Verizon version

Awesome find and great to know for whenever ics does come out. Could you please post the recovery img you got?
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk 2

OK after getting so many responses I decided to just post everything here in hopes that it will help others, too:
All files are here:
http://www.mywo.org:88/XDA/sch-i815/index.php
Step by step procedure to update the Verizon Tab from ..FA02 to ..FD01 build IF YOU ARE stuck with CWM installed on your tab and the original OTA fails with errors:
Upload the SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.1.zip to the INTERNAL(!) SD card. This is important because CWM contains a bug that will only allow you to install from ZIPs stored on the INTERNAL SD storage.
Upload the SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.2.zip to the EXTERNAL(!) (micro SD) card. This is important, because after the factory recovery is restored, it will correctly (and only) look for ZIPs on the EXTERNAL card.
Best way just copy both files to both locations
Fire up CWM and do "install from ZIP" and select SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.1.zip
It should run (takes a while) and eventually tell you all is done. BOOT the tab. It should boot fine but in system it will show the new Android build FD01 but the baseband (radio) will still be the "old" one.
Now press and hold power and vol up again until you see the default Samsung recovery menu. Choose install from ZIP and select SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.2.zip. This will now upgrade the baseband only. When done, reboot and enjoy being back on the "factory upgrade path" with the tab.
I hope someone more savvy than me can "fix" CWM to work properly with VZW tabs (accept the checksum, not fail the check for "SCH-i815" and provide the correct /dev file links for radio upgrades). Until then, I recommend just leaving the tab as-is and not tinkering with the ROM. Not that there is any custom ROM available anyway :-(
I also pulled the NEW factory recovery image FD01_recovery.img with the following command:
dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p6 of=/sdcard/FD01_recovery.img bs=4096
So in case anyone with a botched recovery wants to restore factory (Samsung 3e) recovery. This was actually the reason I had to go through all this... There is NO factory recovery image ANYWHERE to be found. I can't believe that I should be the first one ever to post one?? Anyway, hope it will help
I'm still quite new here, so I do really appreciate every click on that "thanks" button
P.S. for tinkerers and devs I also uploaded the original, untouched OTA file (0559c0e4e08e.update_SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.bin) as it came from Samsung or Verizon or whatever and ended up in the /cache partition.

THANK YOU!
Electron,
You sir, are a BOSS! Thank you so very much for doing the work, and sharing it. You just made things one hell of a lot easier on me, and anyone else that follows.
Regards,
-Rob

Also want to say thanks. You rock, dude. I wouldn't have known how to revert **** on my own.
Also, I feel like we need a sticky or something for sch-i815 owners to go to for device specific stuffs, especially since there is little knowledge/info out for this device.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

hmm i only ever installed ROM manager ... but i did root it ... problem is ... now i don't have a CWM recovery to flash the file ... any ideas?

phigmeta said:
hmm i only ever installed ROM manager ... but i did root it ... problem is ... now i don't have a CWM recovery to flash the file ... any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're in luck! You don't need to go through the whole ordeal because you do NOT have CWM! You can just update the regular intended way. Go into settings, about phone and then click check for system updates. If it presents you the OTA update, just do it the regular way.
My complicated "hack" is only necessary if you DO HAVE CWM installed.

Im sorry I did not explain well what my issue is.
I do not have CWM installed, however i did delete a few appilcations using titanium backup. This causes updates to not take. I would really like to just take it back to factory and start over (this time with less stupidity on my part)
I of course would assume that once its at factory i can then install updates again.
Right now when i try i get the "!" droid sign and a reboot

phigmeta said:
Im sorry I did not explain well what my issue is.
I do not have CWM installed, however i did delete a few appilcations using titanium backup. This causes updates to not take. I would really like to just take it back to factory and start over (this time with less stupidity on my part)
I of course would assume that once its at factory i can then install updates again.
Right now when i try i get the "!" droid sign and a reboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey
OK unless someone can tell us how to "make" an ODIN flashable ROM for you, here is what I would do (and please don't get scared because it sounds a bit convoluted).
First, you need to be rooted. This is obviously the case.
IMPORTANT since you don't have CWM installed yet, SAVE your factory restore.img before proceeding, this saves you a lot of hassle later!
Open the android terminal, type su (accept the prompt) and then type (or copy/paste)
dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p6 of=/mnt/sdcard/factory_recovery.img bs=4096
Check that you have a "factory_recovery.img" file on your sd card now it should be about 8M big.
Now you're safe to install CWM from the forum, look for the other thread(s) where this is being discussed and follow the instructions for the P6800 "international" version with 3G. CWM Thread here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1613638&highlight=cwm&page=3
Then (thanks to nicduim!) there is a full factory (rooted) CWM image floating around on the forums here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1613638&page=6
Which I used to restore my tab to "almost factory" with the missing bloat apps back in place.
I have a copy on my server here: http://ww.mywo.org:88/XDA/sch-i815/ it's the "2012-05-06.22.48.58.ZIP"
unzip that and put the contents on your INTERNAL SD card in the folder clockwordmod. So on your internal SD you should have /clockworkmod/2012-05-06.22.48.58 and inside there the files boot.img, recovery.img etc.
Use CWM recovery to restore this backup. If you never used CWM before. Press power button and volume up and hold both until you see the menu screen with text. You can go up/down with the volume buttons (go slow, it's very laggy) and with the power button you "select" an option. Select the "restore from backup" option and point it to the only folder being offered, the 2012-05-06.22.48.58.
The restore takes a while, then reboot the tab. Now you're back to stock! Last thing you need to do is get rid of CWM again because in the end it's still a bit buggy and will prevent the OTA update from running properly.
Since you luckily have a backup of the factory recovery in form of that factory_recovery.img file, just install and open terminal again, type su and then type (or copy)
dd if=/mnt/sdcard/factory_recovery.img of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p6 bs=4096
This overwrites CWM with your original Samsung Android recovery.
Now you just reboot as usual, connect to the internet and wait until the popup message shows up that a system update is ready, accept it and enjoy
If you don't want to wait for the automatic OTA, you can also stop before killing CWM and use my convoluted 2-step manual update which will get you to the exact same condition as the official OTA.
Hope all this makes sense

I was already on stock FD01 when I tried installing CWM for the P6800 that's floating around here somewhere. Odin said it was a success, but it looks like it didn't take. I've done it a few times, but still ended up w/ the stock recovery. However, after reading through your thread, I do not see a /dev/cdma_update in my I815 either. Is it possible that my attempt to install CWM (although unsuccessful) wiped out this file, among others?
Right now, I'm still at stock FD01 (rooted) and everything seems to be working. When I tried doing an OTA update, it just tells me that I have the latest update and no newer update is available.
One other thing, if I have to, I only have the stock recovery right now since CWM didn't take, can I simply flash both zip's using the Samsung stock recovery to put everything back in stock?
SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.1.zip
SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.2.zip

AlpineMan said:
I was already on stock FD01 when I tried installing CWM for the P6800 that's floating around here somewhere. Odin said it was a success, but it looks like it didn't take. I've done it a few times, but still ended up w/ the stock recovery. However, after reading through your thread, I do not see a /dev/cdma_update in my I815 either. Is it possible that my attempt to install CWM (although unsuccessful) wiped out this file, among others?
Right now, I'm still at stock FD01 (rooted) and everything seems to be working. When I tried doing an OTA update, it just tells me that I have the latest update and no newer update is available.
One other thing, if I have to, I only have the stock recovery right now since CWM didn't take, can I simply flash both zip's using the Samsung stock recovery to put everything back in stock?
SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.1.zip
SCH-I815_FA02c_To_FD01.2.zip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh wait, so you are saying that in "About device" your Android is 3.2
Baseband i815.04 V.FD01 I815FD01
and your Build number is already at HTJ85B.I815FD01.SCH-I815.I815FD01 ?
That would mean you are already updated. In this case, it should be pretty easy to fix your problem. Which apps did you delete with Titanium? I can back them up from my system and make them available for you. All you'd need to do is drop the backup files into your Titanium backups folder and then fire up titanium and restore them!
The /dev/cdma_update node is only required WITHIN CWM recovery, so that is nothing for you to worry about. The zip files above won't help you because they are incremental updates requiring your system to be at FA02, not FD01 !

Yes... I'm already in the latest update. I already backed up the bloatware using Titanium Backup before uninstalling. So I just need to restore them back in order to receive and apply OTA updates in the future?
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Xparent ICS Blue Tapatalk 2

Please Help
Hi. I'm rooted and removed all sorts of bloatware with Titanium. I did this a long time ago and did not back anything up because I'm used to running hardware with custom ROMs available, and not relying on OTA updates.
Since there aren't any custom ROMs for the i815, I'd like to get ready for the upcoming ICS update. To do so, I want to get FD01 loaded onto my device, but I can't update because I've apparently removed too much of the required bloatware.
Does anyone know WHAT pieces of bloatware I'd need to reinstall in order for the OTA update to apply? I'd assume I can restore them and then apply the update and re-root.
If anyone can help pinpoint what missing APKs might help, I'll give them a shot. And, to the extent I figure anything out, I'll repost here in the hopes that it helps someone else.

electron,
Your instructions worked ... thank you so much

@jkrell... the failed attempt at installing the update should return an error message(s). You just have to read through them until you find the culprit(s). Apparently I uninstalled a few odexed files that were needed. I couldn't update until i hunted them down and restored them.
I guess we all jumped at the opportunity to install the cwm recovery image, that we didn't even think about cmda updates....ooops. So far i had to do a complete factory restore after the update. I was getting soft bricked to the point where I had no choice. Good thing I sent all titanium backups to actual sd card, i was able to salvage 97% f my data..... with the exception of a few downloads i forgot to move.
Gamecih doesn't work anymore (either version). No more automative data hacks I'm not sure what's going on. I uninstalled adfree..used titanium backup to uninstall both versions and reinstalled both several times. Oh well.
It really sucks not having nandroid backups but it's not worth the trouble of having to do this everytime an OTA modem update gets pushed to my tab. Needless to say, I won't be odining the cwm based recovery image again.
I'm with the O.P. I wish i hadn't wasted my money on this tab. No true cwm for this tab, so no dev will ever waste thier time with this tab. The sch i815 will soon be forgotten about and some other tablet will be all the hype before summer ends....that's just how it is. 21 months left on my contract.... [email protected]#k my life. Lol

Thanks Smitty.
When I try to update, I just see the "!" logo and then the device reboots. Is there a log file somewhere I can look at to see what the errors are?
I hear ya on the gloom and doom, but this device has only been out for just over 3 months now. I'd expect a recovery and some custom ROMs to come eventually. I doubt I'll go the custom ROM route unless CyanogenMod is supported, because I have no complaints about the tablet's performance thus far. It's speedy, smooth and the battery lasts forever.
In my book, this is a great tablet and I'm satisfied with the purchase.

[GUIDE] TF300T Unlock/Root/Flash for Factory JB Devices on 4.1.X (newbie friendly)

Having recently purchased a TF300T with intent to customize the hell out of it, I ran into a big problem. There wasn't one definitive guide for my general case, some of the steps I read weren't completely clear, and I often had to put pieces together from multiple guides to get where I wanted. Halfway through the process it occurred to me that sharing my experience in form of a guide could give the community something I wish that I had when I began. So enough with the intro, let's visualize the process before we begin.
This guide is for new owners of TF300T devices that have Jelly Bean 4.1.X preflashed from the factory. ​
joelalmeidaptg said:
If your tablet has 4.2.1 Android version from Asus, DO NOT FLASH A RECOVERY THAT WAS ACTUALLY MADE FOR 4.1 TABLETS! You will end up on a PERMANENT BRICK with no solution until now. You won't be able to use fastboot ever again. You won't be able to flash anything ever again. You will be stuck with a bricked tablet!
If you are looking for a Recovery for a 4.2.1 bootloader (and a complete guide for updating), read this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2187982 Don't do it with any other tutorial: they are for 4.1 bootloaders!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For those curious...
My TF300T was one of the Champagne Gold models purchased from Groupon with a serial that begins with C9. I recall seeing a user with a Champagne Gold from Amazon that still had ICS. If you're still on ICS, this guide isn't for you-- Read up on NVflash and decide if you want to take advantage of it BEFORE you upgrade to JB.
Here's an overview of what we will be doing:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlock the TF300T
Backup apps, app data and files (Recommended, Optional)
Install ClockworkMod Recovery (soon to be replaced with TWRP; I gave in)
Root the TF300T (Optional)
Backup your stock Asus ROM (Recommended, Optional)
Flash a Custom ROM
Backup your working Custom ROM (Optional)
Additional information you should know:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This guide has been made with the total android noob in mind. Having only owned an android tablet for a week, I too am an android noob. On the flipside, I'm no noob to hardware and software exploits and modifications. I've tried to make this friendly for any type of noob, but there are a few instances where I expect basic menu and Windows 7 navigation skills.
ClockworkMod Recovery doesn't appear to have a "Shutdown" function, nor does it display current battery level-- for this reason, the recommendation and warning to have a battery charged to at least 60% is extremely heavy. The worst thing that can happen to any device is usually an incomplete flash. Don't let it happen to you-- start charging your TF300T NOW.
I have seen reports that "Fastboot" doesn't work properly on Windows 7 64-bit. This guide addresses that issue, as I also encountered it. If you don't know what "Fastboot" is, in the words of an admirable comedian, "You gonna learn today". Don't worry about it for now!
Your device came with JB-- you didn't miss the bus for NVflash. In your case, the bus never came.
I am not responsible for any damages caused to (but not limited to) yourself or your device.
Even if you think you're pretty good at figuring this stuff out, stick to the directions as close as possible.
If you love tweaks, you're going to love your custom ROMs.
Let's get started!
Unlocking Your TF300T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WARNING: Unlocking your TF300T will void your warranty. If your device breaks or fails under normal use, don't expect Asus to pick up the tab! Be aware that once unlocked, it cannot be relocked.
There are two ways you can go about this-- Either download the official Asus unlock utility for Windows or download the .apk and install from your tablet (Asus utility still working! I successfully unlocked mine on JB 4.1.1). I chose to download the .apk and install directly on my tablet, therefore this is the method I will cover.
To download the .apk file, scan the QR Code below with Barcode Scanner (free; on Play store) and open the URL to the Asus Support page for the TF300T. Alternatively, if you are viewing this thread on your TF300T, you may simply tap the code below.
​
On the Asus Support page, select "Android" as your OS. The page will reload and present you with a list. Click on "Utilities", then after it has loaded, download the Unlock Device App. When it is done downloading, a notification will pop up in the lower right corner. Click on it to install the Unlock tool. You'll also be able to open the app immediately after the install completes-- open it now.
After scrolling to the bottom of the End User Licence Agreement, select the checkbox indicating that you agree to those terms. You should now have access to the slider that will unlock your tablet. Stay connected to your wifi and unlock when ready. The unlock will not work without access to the internet.
If I recall correctly, your tablet should reboot. Just let it do what it wants. After it's done doing it's thing, take this opportunity to make backups! when you and your tablet are ready, we'll continue on to the next step.
Setting Up The Android SDK and Installing ClockworkMod Recovery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
​Perhaps this was the most frustrating part of my experience-- Installing the Android SDK went fine when I could actually find the .exe download. After that it was a matter of getting the drivers for Fastboot working properly. I was able to narrow it down to a problem for users of Windows 7 64-bit.
From your PC, go HERE, scroll down and click on "Download For Other Platforms". Scroll down more and under the "SDK Tools Only" downloads, you should find a download that looks like: "installer_r##-windows.exe" where "##" is the revision number. Download this .exe and assuming Windows is installed on C:\, install it to either "C:\tools\android-sdk" or "C:\android-sdk". If Windows is not installed to drive letter C, replace the drive letter with the correct letter for your system. Do the same when following the command prompt examples that follow.
Open the Android SDK Manager. Search for "SDK Manager" in the start menu and you should find a result with the same name and a little android icon. Once it's open, you'll be presented with a list. Check the box next to the "Tools" folder, then expand the "Extras" folder and check the box next to "Google USB Driver". In the lower right corner, click "Install packages...", agree to all when ready and begin your downloads.
In the settings application of your tablet, go to the "Developer options" tab near the bottom. Ensure that the switch in the top right corner is in the "ON" position, then under the "Debugging" header, enable "Android debugging". Read the following carefully before you continue: Shut down your tablet and connect your USB cable. Hold the power and volume down buttons at the same time. Keep holding until you see a menu. The menu will consist of a few items, among them there is "RCK", a USB icon, an Android icon, and a "Wipe Data" icon. Tap volume down until the USB icon is selected, then press volume up. Cross your fingers and hope drivers install automatically.
They probably won't, so have windows look in the \android-sdk\extras\ folder. It should say the drivers installed successfully. Either way, open the start menu, and right click on "Computer". Click "Manage", then in the left hand pane of the new window, click "Device Manager". The "Other Devices" section may be already expanded in the center pane. If it is, look to see if "Fastboot" appears in that section with a yellow exclamation mark.
If it isn't there, you shouldn't be worried-- check for a section called "Android Phone" or "Portable Devices". Look for a device called "Android ADB Interface" or "Fastboot". It shouldn't have a yellow exclamation mark next to it.
In the event you have the device appearing with a yellow exclamation mark next to it, go HERE and download PdaNet. This was my remedy for this error. Unplug your TF300T from your computer and install PdaNet following instructions. During the install a warning will appear to install unsigned drivers. Install the driver anyway, and let the installation finish. You can now plug your TF300T back in, and it should be recognized automatically. Just in case, hold the volume down and power buttons again until your tablet restarts and you see your hidden menu again. Once again, tap volume down until the USB icon is selected, then press volume up again to select it. Check the Device Manager again and you should find the "Android Phone" section at the top. Within it, you'll find a device called "Android ADB Interface".
Now that we have your tablet and computer set up nicely, we can finally install ClockworkMod (CWM) Recovery. Go to THIS thread and download the attachment called "recovery-jb.img" (thanks XpLoDWilD!). It is VERY important that you download "recovery-jb.img" as this is the version for users with Jelly Bean bootloader!
Rename the file you just downloaded to "recovery.img" and place it in \android-sdk\platform-tools . In Windows 7, open the Start Menu and search for "cmd". You should see a result called "cmd.exe". Right click that result and click "Run as Administrator". Now type the following commands into the new command prompt window in order to flash CWM Recovery:
Code:
cd C:\tools\android-sdk\platform-tools\
fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery recovery.img
DON'T unplug your tablet!! Don't close the window either! Wait for the command prompt to finish what it's doing, then you can type the final command:
Code:
fastboot -i 0x0B05 reboot
Your tablet will reboot. Once it has fully rebooted, shut it down and hold volume down and power again to access our tablet's hidden menu. This time, instead of selecting the USB icon, select "RCK" and press volume up. If I'm not mistaken, "RCK" stands for "ReCovery Kernel". ClockworkMod Recovery should load up. If it doesn't, then you were not successful in flashing CWM. If it does, then you can go to the Backup and Restore menu and create a backup.
I was overconfident when I went through all this, and I didn't make a backup-- for me, I wasn't able to get my SD card detected (64GB fat32), but even in this case you should be able to make a backup to your "Internal SD card". Unfortunately, you are on your own for this step. Make sure that you transfer this backup to your PC after creating it. You may need to disable Developer options in your TF300T's settings before you can transfer files over again.
In THIS post, XpLoDWilD gives instructions on how to Root your tablet. If I'm not mistaken, this applies to users who are using a ROM that does not already have root. If you care about Root right now, you can go ahead and flash his attached .zip file using CWM to your TF300T.
When I did this, I selected the .zip file with CWM and then went back to the main menu to select reboot. CWM then prompted me that it needed to fix permissions in order to keep Root. I tried it both ways-- first I let it fix permissions, then used a Play store app to check for root. Test came up negative, so I tried again without allowing it to fix permissions. Negative again. I tried again, allowing it to fix permissions again and then left it alone. If you are successful in rooting your TF300T, you can use Titanium Backup to backup your device later. However I used an app that did not require root that worked fine. The choice is yours.
Flashing a custom ROM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now it's time to find a custom ROM to flash. For my guide I will cover Baked TF300T Blackbean #6-- Based on CyanogenMod10, and quite a nice upgrade from the stock ROM. The only downside I found is the Asus App Backup application is not included and cannot be installed. I'm unsure why this is the case-- I have even attempted to install it via CWM with no success. If you need this app or the App Locker app, I suggest you choose a non-CM10 ROM. You are on your own in deciding an alternative, but I have heard great things about CleanROM and I seem to recall reading that these incompatible Asus apps work on it. Don't take my word for it-- do your own research to make sure!
It should also be noted that ROMs like Blackbean #6 have some potentially dangerous settings that can make a power user salivate profusely.
Spiderman's Dad said:
With great power comes great responsibility
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, so it was his uncle, whatever. But either way, if you're going to install this ROM (or any other with overclock tweaks), BE CAREFUL when selecting different settings for CPU speed and overclocking. I used to overclock my PC as a hobby and pushed a 1.8GHz CPU to 2.77GHz on air cooling.. The thing I learned in the process is if you don't have the proper settings, your computer becomes unstable and weird things start happening. Data corruption, clicking the Start Menu does something crazy and unusual, PC crashes randomly, etc... Some of these errors are due to insufficient cooling-- a problem you cannot remedy when working with a portable device.
Assuming you are new to this tablet like I am, use this rule of thumb when dealing with foreign and potentially dangerous things: DON'T TOUCH IT until you understand it. Then when you understand it, understand it again. Then when you feel you've understood it twice, take baby steps. It's like jumping up a cement set of stairs-- you're definitely not going to try to jump five steps in your first attempt, unless you want to risk smashing your face and bloodying yourself up. Take it one step at a time-- make sure you can land on your feet before deciding to go further.
There's a lot of other options Blackbean #6 has that the average user can still appreciate, so ignore those overclocking/CPU stuff and focus on the other tweaks. Nova Launcher is included and is pretty sweet. I upgraded to Nova Launcher Prime and feel it's worth the extra $4, but I'll leave that for you to decide. There are more options than merely Nova Launcher alone, and not all of them have a price tag.
Without further adieu, let's download the Blackbean #6 ROM and Gapps. Head over to THIS official release thread for the downloads. The names of the files you want are:
baked_tf300t_blackbean-6_jb-bl_b6.zip
gappsinverted-jb-20121029-signed.zip​
Put them into a folder called "bb6" and copy the folder over to your TF300T. If your SD card is working in CWM (from CWM, go to the "mount" menu and try to mount SD card), copy the folder to your SD card.
NOW is the time to do any final backups before your fresh ROM install! I recommend "App Backup & Restore" on the Play store. If your tablet is rooted, you can also use Titanium Backup. Both will work fine, though generally speaking people seem to prefer Titanium Backup. People also seem to prefer TWRP over CWM, but I personally find the design unappealing. More importantly, I could only find a proper guide on installing CWM on a factory flashed JB TF300T.
Once you've made your backups, don't do anything until these backups are safely transferred to your PC! Don't forget to backup your music, movies and photos...
Now that you're 100% confident you've made all the backups you need and your battery is well charged and ready to go, let's flash your custom ROM! Shutdown and enter our hidden menu you should be very familiar with by now. Boot into CWM (with RCK icon from hidden menu selected, press volume up), then press volume up/down to navigate.
READ THE FOLLOWING SECTION BEFORE DOING ANYTHING ELSE:
Select "install zip from sdcard" and tap power. If you placed your "bb6" folder on your SD card, tap the power button once more. If it says "Can't mount /sdcard/" in the bottom left corner, then select "choose zip from internal sdcard" and tap power. Earlier you should have put your ROM and Gapps in a folder called "bb6". If you can't find this folder in either the SD card or internal SD card locations, GO BACK, reboot, and make sure you put the folder on your TF300T or your SD card. You should also make sure that the ROM and the Gapps file are inside that folder as well. Do NOT unzip them! They are just fine as they are. We are NOT flashing the ROM and Gapps yet, we are merely making sure they are there before you wipe your tablet. If the files are there, go back to CWM's main menu.
Select "wipe data/factory reset" and tap the power button. Confirm that you want to wipe, wait for it to finish.
Now select "wipe cache partition" and press the power button. Confirm that you want to wipe, wait for it to finish.
Go back to the main menu and select "advanced" and tap power, then select "wipe dalvik cache" and tap power. Confirm that you want to wipe, wait for it to finish.
Don't worry! Your ROM and Gapps should still be in your bb6 folder. Navigate to "install zip from sdcard" again, and let's make the magic happen. We are going to install the ROM first, then install Gapps. Only after both the ROM and Gapps are installed will we reboot our tablet.
So select the ROM first, confirm that you want to install, wait for it to finish. This one will take a long time compared to the Gapps. Just be patient and wait, even though it looks like it's not doing anything.
Then select the Gapps, confirm that you want to install, wait for it to finish.
Finally, reboot your tablet and cross your fingers. You should be greeted with the sweet victory of the startup animation. Go through the first time setup routine, and make sure the tablet works. From here you can optionally backup your custom ROM, but I recommend getting your settings the way you like them before you backup.
Give yourself a pat on the back--you survived! Hope this guide helped someone out-- I was able to sort through my problems fine, but I felt it important to share my experience. I know I couldn't have been the first to hop through these hoops anyway.
Congrats on your custom ROM Transformer Pad. Enjoy your tablet.
P.S. Questions? Comments? Suggestions? If you have any of the three, feel free to share! If it's a suggestion, please PM me and I'll see about making edits to my guide. All are appreciated, and especially anything that clears up any uncertainties I've expressed.
Special thanks (individuals and groups I owe credit for my process):
Drgravy, Team Baked, and everyone who wrote code that was used in the Blackbean ROMs. Blackbean #6 is my first custom ROM, and so far it's been great!! Keep up the awesome work!
XpLoDWilD, for CWM Recovery + Root on TF300T. These files and instructions were the major keys in making my endeavor a success
I also want to send out a big thank you to every other individual and team who has released a custom ROM for the TF300T-- admirable work, and far more than I could ever do. Thanks for giving us options and making us excited to have a customized tablet!
(....And many more! Currently in finals week (yikes) and can't recall everything right now-- will add more as I remember)

It's a shame that such a well written guide has so little thanks. Have mine.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using xda app-developers app

Very nice. hopefully this helps people just getting the tf300.
note, if you want to install TWRP recovery instead, your command will change accordingly, just make sure you type in the exact file name you want to flash. so if your recovery file is named twrp.blob:
fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery twrp.blob

Thanks!
Your guide helped me a lot. I had problems only with root. Flashed 4 times, but always got "no root acces". Finally, I downloaded root package from here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1845377 and it works well

is there any way around that "unknown error..." when i try to use the unlock app yet?
I keep trying but the same error message keeps coming up

sq1ne said:
is there any way around that "unknown error..." when i try to use the unlock app yet?
I keep trying but the same error message keeps coming up
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is your tf300 new? first hand? or have u ever sent it to asus for repair before?

Well written, well thought out instructions. Many, many thanks!! I'm still having some trouble though. I get stuck once I download the unlock app, open it, agree to the EULA, then another warning appears that is a black screen white text and a yellow triangle. Nothing happens after that. There are no buttons to agree, no checkboxes, nothing happens. Any advice?
*UPDATE* Figured it out. Be sure to sent the font in settings->display->font size to small, then you will see it. The large font pushes the agree button off the bottom of the screen.

It would be great if CWM in this OP were replaced with TWRP. Many are having issues with CWM. Me being one of them. I flashed TWRP with fastboot and no more problems!
I agree with the post above. Sad that such a well written post has so little thanks. :good:

thnx for this amazing guide, but I am still unsure of this guide will work for me.
I am from Holland (Europe)
specs from my ASUS Transformer TF300T:
Android 4.1.1
Kernel 3.1.10 ([email protected])
Buildnr JR003C.WW_epad-10.4.2.18-20121122
Pad EC Version PAD-EC20T-0216
My question is...will this guide also work for me? ...since I have JB 4.1.1 & build 10.4.2.18
I am also worried about the fact that this guide in for an american(?) transformer I gues...so do I need other files then the files mentioned?
I would love to have ROOT and install a custom rom and remove bloatware etc.
thnx for the help in advance!

Thank you so much, perfect for so many people here.
Can you edit it with TWRP? I would use this right now but as above poster said there have been issues with CWM so don't want to try it.
P.s. i got mine from groupon too

Tamaskan said:
Is your tf300 new? first hand? or have u ever sent it to asus for repair before?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bought mine brand new just this past Black Friday.
updated to .18 firmware
I don't want to have to send it in.

GodfleshNL said:
thnx for this amazing guide, but I am still unsure of this guide will work for me.
I am from Holland (Europe)
specs from my ASUS Transformer TF300T:
Android 4.1.1
Kernel 3.1.10 ([email protected])
Buildnr JR003C.WW_epad-10.4.2.18-20121122
Pad EC Version PAD-EC20T-0216
My question is...will this guide also work for me? ...since I have JB 4.1.1 & build 10.4.2.18
I am also worried about the fact that this guide in for an american(?) transformer I gues...so do I need other files then the files mentioned?
I would love to have ROOT and install a custom rom and remove bloatware etc.
thnx for the help in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it will work, I've tried it. But i suggest you use TWRP custom recovery though. CWM has high chances of getting bricked.

Tamaskan said:
Yes, it will work, I've tried it. But i suggest you use TWRP custom recovery though. CWM has high chances of getting bricked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you also please add a NOOB tutorial for installing TWRP Recovery (this forum is very confusing in getting the right tutorials / avoiding outdated tutorials which would brick my TF300T etc)?
Example:
quote from XDA forum in TWRP topic: "The fastest and easiest way to install TWRP is to use the GooManager app" <--- GooMnager needs ROOT so I can't use this method?
My ASUS TF300T is completely untouched & unrooted still and don't won't to mess it up.

GodfleshNL said:
Could you also please add a NOOB tutorial for installing TWRP Recovery (this forum is very confusing in getting the right tutorials / avoiding outdated tutorials which would brick my TF300T etc)?
Example:
quote from XDA forum in TWRP topic: "The fastest and easiest way to install TWRP is to use the GooManager app" <--- GooMnager needs ROOT so I can't use this method?
My ASUS TF300T is completely untouched & unrooted still and don't won't to mess it up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
www.mediafire.com/?7v1gwbbzqzvzto7 <- fastboot and twrp, the twrp is out dated so if you want you can download new one from twrp website.
2)Extract the recovery with fastboot files zip and open a command prompt in the same folder of the adb and fastboot files (you must click the fastboot and adb when extracred and i suggest you put your extracted fastboot and recovery zip in C:\(foldername) and then open cmd)
3) Reboot into the bootloader of your tablet, type: adb reboot bootloader
4) When your tablet has reached the bootloader navigate with volume down to the usb icon and press volume up to confirm.
5) To flash the recovery type:
fastboot -i 0x0b05 flash recovery tf300t-jb.blob
Credits to krabappel2548.

Tamaskan said:
www.mediafire.com/?7v1gwbbzqzvzto7 <- fastboot and twrp, the twrp is out dated so if you want you can download new one from twrp website.
2)Extract the recovery with fastboot files zip and open a command prompt in the same folder of the adb and fastboot files (you must click the fastboot and adb when extracred and i suggest you put your extracted fastboot and recovery zip in C:\(foldername) and then open cmd)
3) Reboot into the bootloader of your tablet, type: adb reboot bootloader
4) When your tablet has reached the bootloader navigate with volume down to the usb icon and press volume up to confirm.
5) To flash the recovery type:
fastboot -i 0x0b05 flash recovery tf300t-jb.blob
Credits to krabappel2548.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is a little update on my progress...
- I unlocked the bootloader of my TF300T
- I managed to install latest TWRP
- Made a (COMPLETE) backup of the untouchedl system with TWRP <--- DO THIS BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE!
- Rooted the TF300T with the WW file in this topic: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2033205 <----works awesome!
- Made a second (COMPLETE) backup of the now ROOTED system with TWRP
- Tried installing the latest "Cleanrom 3.01 Inheritance", but got the infamous "bootloop" too...the rom has been pulled down from the forum till that is fixed ( I thought I had done something wtong flashing a custom rom, but actually a lot of others had the same problem)
- Waiting for a "bootloop fixed" Cleanrom Inheritance 3.02....and gonna try flashing it again.

first of all thanks a lot ive been going crazy looking for this!! my question is will it work for me?
i bought my tf300t in sept with ics and upgraded to jb....
also i tried this not to long ago and ran into a problem after i unlocked
so right now its just unlocked but not rooted do i need to reverse that or what?
my apologies im extremely noob haha

GodfleshNL said:
Here is a little update on my progress...
- I unlocked the bootloader of my TF300T
- I managed to install latest TWRP
- Made a (COMPLETE) backup of the untouchedl system with TWRP <--- DO THIS BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE!
- Rooted the TF300T with the WW file in this topic: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2033205 <----works awesome!
- Made a second (COMPLETE) backup of the now ROOTED system with TWRP
- Tried installing the latest "Cleanrom 3.01 Inheritance", but got the infamous "bootloop" too...the rom has been pulled down from the forum till that is fixed ( I thought I had done something wtong flashing a custom rom, but actually a lot of others had the same problem)
- Waiting for a "bootloop fixed" Cleanrom Inheritance 3.02....and gonna try flashing it again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i never backup.... I only backup app using titanium backuo, if something on the rom goes wrong i just reflash latest firmware from asus website. If you like custom roms, i suggest you use Energy Rom if you want OC or Hydro rom if you want just modified stock rom with better performance.

I have a problem while I try to run the flash recovery command. I have done all steps prior to this.The only difference I see is in device manager I get "ASUS Android Devices". Now, the error I am getting comes after trying to run the command, I get "error: cannot load 'recovery.img' No error" . I have also tried the pdanet solution. Thank you for your help in advance.

Stupid question... but I am going to ask it. Having never rooted my TF300 it is on latest firmware will this guide still apply to be even though I bought my device running ICS but have updated to latest firmware? Have never rooted tablets before so all new to this.

Agera said:
Stupid question... but I am going to ask it. Having never rooted my TF300 it is on latest firmware will this guide still apply to be even though I bought my device running ICS but have updated to latest firmware? Have never rooted tablets before so all new to this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will work as long as you are using Jelly Bean

General Noob Root and ROM update Questions

So I am new to the whole Root and ROM Android arena. And I came up with a few questions that hopefully you guys can help me with.
1. I read people saying they lost their ROOT after an update from 4.1 to 4.2 or 4.2.1 to 4.2.2? How did this happen for them?
Do you have to Un-root and flash to stock before updating to a different build (Such as 4.1 to 4.2 or 4.2.1 to 4.2.2)?
2. Right now I am using a custom ROM on Android Version 4.2.2.... if a new Custom ROM with a new android version released (Let's say 4.2.3) can I flash from one Rom to the other with just wiping Cache/Factory wipe and Dalvik Cahce or is there something else I would need to do because of the Android version update?
Sorry those two questions above are very similar but I wanted to ask them both ways.
3. If I were to get bored of the Custom ROM I am currently on. Are there any Best Practices "rules" I should know about when switching from one custom ROM to another?
4. Last if I am on a custom ROM with a nightly build..... is it more common to update to every nightly build that releases? Or is it more common people to only pick and choose choice nightly build versions. And if people do update to every new Nightly build.... can you update too much and destroy your device?
Sorry guys I know these seem like very basic questions..... and Yes I did search the forums. However while I found some very basic answers nothing went into great depth in explanation. All the answers seemed to be very vague.

does anyone have some suggestions on where to find these answers?

1. If you are on stock, rooted, and you update versions of the OS, you are essentially UPDATING the /system partition. That is how you lose 'root' when upgrading. If you modify any system files while rooted, you have to either revert to stock or change those modified files back to the original before running the update.
2. Just run FACTORY RESET in your custom recovery and flash the new custom rom. No need to wipe any caches (/cache is wiped during a factory reset anyway). It doesnt matter what version to what version. Sometimes new versions might require new bootloaders, but you will be bombarded with that information here if that becomes the case.
3. See number 2. Its the same thing. backup your apps with Titanium Backup, do a Factory Reset in custom recovery and flash new rom....done.
4. doesnt matter. you can update as much or as little as you like. some people prefer stability over new shiny, but then others are just crack-flashers....and will literally flash ANYTHING posted to see what happens

Pirateghost said:
1. If you are on stock, rooted, and you update versions of the OS, you are essentially UPDATING the /system partition. That is how you lose 'root' when upgrading. If you modify any system files while rooted, you have to either revert to stock or change those modified files back to the original before running the update.
2. Just run FACTORY RESET in your custom recovery and flash the new custom rom. No need to wipe any caches (/cache is wiped during a factory reset anyway). It doesnt matter what version to what version. Sometimes new versions might require new bootloaders, but you will be bombarded with that information here if that becomes the case.
3. See number 2. Its the same thing. backup your apps with Titanium Backup, do a Factory Reset in custom recovery and flash new rom....done.
4. doesnt matter. you can update as much or as little as you like. some people prefer stability over new shiny, but then others are just crack-flashers....and will literally flash ANYTHING posted to see what happens
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks I really appreciate the response. :good: You'd be surprised how many "Tiny Parts" of answers you get from searching. Very rarely the whole answer you need.
I am glade to hear that Question 2 only requires you to just factory rest. From the misinformation gathered on other forums... I was starting to think you had to flash back to stock before updating to another Custom ROM Build.

@20mmrain
You've probably looked at a number of posts by confused newbs. For better or worse, this site is nothing like a moderated wiki, so you find treasure mixed in with trash.
Rooters fall into four broad classes:
(a) Those that "root & modify" stock ROMs
(b) Those that abandon stock and use custom ROMs and kernels
For each of the above cases, there are diligent and careful users who make full (nandroid) backups... and lazy idiots who do not. It is almost always the lazy idiots you observe coming in here in a panic, independent of whether they are in class (a) or (b).
Beyond that, newbs taking approach (a) seem to perpetually labor under the false impression that their modified versions of a stock ROM should be able to be upgraded by the OTA process - when in fact that there is absolutely no reason to believe that. The OTAs carefully check hundreds of different files before they perform any changes; if even a single one of them has been altered, the OTA aborts without making any changes.
It is *possible* that if none of those hundreds of files are changed that an OTA will succeed on a "nearly stock" ROM. When this happens though, it is quite typical that:
- the "su" binary (part of a root kit) in either /system/bin or /system/xbin gets its' setuid permissions reset by a recursive permission-setting command in the OTA
- the custom recovery can possibly be overwritten by the new stock recovery.
Folks tend to refer to either of the above as "losing root". True in principle, but they are trivially fixed up - if the user actually understands how Android rooting works. (With fastboot, you simply reflash the custom recovery, boot into that and reflash the same root kit originally used).
It's too bad that folks who put together rooting guides seem to neglect putting an emphasis on making backups. They give you both security and freedom.
Bottom line: whatever you choose to do, make nandroid backups. You don't need to keep them all on the tablet - but for convenience reasons, you should have at least one known good ROM as a backup available to be restored.
good luck

Wow that is a really in-depth explanation and that is exactly what was looking for! Since I have been working in the IT world for years I will say with pride that I am an individual who believes in safety first and always back up any important project I am working on! So I am happy to hear I made the right decision there.
I guess a great deal of my questions also stem from working in a windows based world for so long ....that I am still learning Linux/android.
Right now I do keep a nandroid backup on my nexus 7 but only one. How backups do you have? And do you just keep the rest on a thumb drive?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app

20mmrain said:
Right now I do keep a nandroid backup on my nexus 7 but only one. How backups do you have? And do you just keep the rest on a thumb drive?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At the moment I have 6 on the tablet - all generated in the last 60 days. Two in the last two days (one a rooted stock/jdq39, another a cm10.1 nightly). Plus recent TiBu market app & data backups. 32 GB model, so I have plenty of room.
That doesn't reflect any particular strategy or goal. I hook it up to a PC every once in a while and at that time either copy off any backups worth saving or delete them. Most of the those I have on the PC will eventually be deleted as well without ever being used. You could use a USB key if you want to. Really you only need to keep one on the tablet - mostly as a convenience in case you wedge your daily driver ROM with some random mod: you can restore a working ROM right from your tablet rather than having to find a USB key or return to your PC to get the tablet booting again.
There is one type of ROM backup that I think is very useful to keep a permanent copy of - a pure stock ROM. The reason for that is that any radio images (tilapia) or bootloader upgrades that are *sometimes* delivered by OTA can be trivially installed by:
- make a backup of the current ROM
- restore a pure stock ROM backup (including the stock recovery! ***)
- take the OTA
- ***soft-boot a custom recovery and make a backup of the NEW stock ROM (including its' recovery!)
- hard-flash the custom recovery to the tablet
- restore the backup from the first step above.
Doing things this way is the safest possible way to install either a bootloader or a radio image. Not only that, but for folks that prefer to mod stock ROMs, it gives them a backup archive of /system to recover arbitrary (stock) files from.
*** soft-booting a recovery is the most convenient way to capture a stock recovery as part of a nandroid backup. I.E.
Code:
fastboot boot recoveryimagefile.img
If you hard-flash a custom recovery before you make a nandroid backup of a stock ROM, you lose the opportunity to get a copy of the stock recovery along with the rest of the stock ROM.
good luck

[SUPERGUIDE][P51xxP31xx] Installation Troubleshoot Guide

The SUPER Custom Rom Guide and Troubleshoot​
There came a new version, your droid got old school and there is no support from Samsung cause they have forgotten about you.
Service centers you looked upon, and to mention exorbitant fees plus service tax came along. Thank You ma'am. will see you around.
Your droid is lagging and hanging and Lo, stops working suddenly. Now you just want to try something new, cause you can't sell them or buy new.
You search on google,
find on Youtube,
Read between surveys and blogs,
tried it yourself,
sometimes got lucky sometimes got thorny.
Now you come to the XDA community. there is too much to absorb and you're kind a new, welcome to all of you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dealing with most of the trouble making bugs and useful insight into cornering them like a rat
1. Tab is Stuck on Charging Screen. Tab is not turning On, battery completely depleted/Not charging, Nothing is Working
2. Stuck On Samsung Logo Screen.
3. Stuck in a Boot Loop.
4. Stuck On Firmware Upgrade Encountered an Issue.
5. Bricked.​Explained in Post number 2
Well that would sum up for me and most of the users will agree that these are the cases that really needs attention and no cussing about how your droid lags and hangs, doesn't makes it to the lists So, by the end of this guide, I would hope and expect at least so much from users to at least have a better knowledge and general idea of how things work here. so users don't just go on saying HELP HELP I am a NooB, Please read and understand first, dude. Thank you I will try to make it simple even if you're not so cool.
A few words about me if you're interested
OH!! you clicked!! wow. well what should I say here. ahem, hello gorgeous. I am Sam So, unlikely,
So guys, I wasn't lucky enough to get everything organised at one thread and spend a lot of time finding a perfect place for everything I would want to, so I thought this would be worth a share. It took me almost a month to write this stuff. yeah I was bored to the core, so put in some fun stuff
along with most of my learning experience and knowledge gained here on XDA in this Guide over the span of 3 years, I would just read and experiment it myself, kind of guy, I wouldn't have dared to put up this guide sooner, but now after successfully solving most of the cases even other people hard bricks and trivial issues that I get to see everyday and keeping myself safe from hard bricks with still not knocked out by one. all thanks to this community this is my gift that I would like to give in return, and I am just someone who likes to get to the edge of the world, exactly, on a round globe. Thank You
Android Broken into 5 parts, Worth a Look
Well not exactly broken but explained in 5 parts ( There are more but I choose not to, thank me for that)
1. Boot section(bootloaders/kernel)
This is droid's heart(accept it), responsible for the droid's birth and keeping it alive, sleeping, waking up, slowdown and speedup, overall working of the system, it has impact on every part of the droid. mess up things here, and droid won't start up at all and will stop beating and malfunction. then you will need a pacemaker and CPR(J-TAG) to revive it or it will keep the brain in coma. yes pretty much like our heart.
2. System section
This is a droid's mind, Its the place where all main work and processes are happening, with rooting and flashing you get a licence to open that mind and analyse, read logs, stats. that brain, heart and all your body is producing, you can see it all and make changes in it, put few things from outside. clean it, format it, wipe it, make amend(patches). So, imagine all that happening in your mind and the idea of cleaning your brains for once, wiping the mind, giving new and fresh experiences(newer and updated files) new interface(new UI), affecting the overall performance and changing to a whole new perspective with which you look at things.
So Clear your mind about this and remove your bad experiences and upgrade it with new stable ones. err not the custom beta and alpha ones, cause then you will give your headaches and put them in depression.
3. Data
This place is the memories part, and everything is stored up here. Everything. some would be overtly stored(on sdcard) and some deep inside you(under system/data/data). now overtly ones are not a concern here but deeper ones are hard to forget and lingers in your system, these won't go well if your heart and mind changed or aren't supposed to be the same, or in trouble will they? (i know I am good at explaining this)
4. Cache
Well, this one is the dreams part. damn I am right just admit it now. they come from your memories, keep it or forget about it, that's unto you. sometimes it can interfere with your old memories when you get new ones. so if unknown problem persist, with your heart and mind working nicely please clear your dreams and look into some of the memories. otherwise get the mind checked first.
5. Recovery
This is the soul part, whenever your heart or mind or data or dreams are feeling lost, you connect to it and revive them accordingly, or contact ODIN.
I hope you had some fun in the above part and a very clear and better understanding, So now you know where things are going wrong​
The Beginning
Ensure your Charging Adapter, USB ports and your USB cable, are in good shape and working in accordance, Never depend on USB hubs or any USB port that is a faulty or slow performer, use original cables, or buy new ones, the cable does create problems in some cases. if you're sure that these are fine, then let it in charging for few hours to even a day. depending upon how fast the droid recovers.
So what do you do, when you have to go the custom way or solve your problems?
i. Press Power and Volume Up(right button) or
ii. Press Power and Volume Down(left button) or
iii.Press Power and Hold touch screen combinations.
iv. Press nicely and hold it for good few seconds there, no hurry, really.
v. Long press the power button, release the power button and, when you see a logo appear during boot-up, hold down both the volume up and volume down buttons. Continue holding the two buttons until the droid boots up with a safe mode indicator at the bottom-left corner of its screen.
vi. Plug it in PC with the USB.
vii. Remove the Battery blow air on it and pat a little and put it back inside.
So what happens after doing what I said above?
i. (a). The tab goes into download mode
ii (b). The tab goes into recovery mode
iii(c). the tab switch off/on again.
iv (d). Now the Combinations worked properly, beware cause many a times on droids this could be a seriously tricky part.
v (e). The tab goes into safe mode.
I know you got tired there holding the buttons and No you didn't had to press it so hard
vi (f). Your droid and PC responds and connects.
yeah, I know Nothing much of a Help, but it will make sense when it doesn't
vii(g).
this is an age old trick of which there is no proof of success, but it has been working since ages.
As long as you can enter download mode or recovery or safe mode you can walk the path of going custom and troubleshoot along the way. Piece of cake. Most of the ways including how to root, upgrades, lag free and better performance starts here
[if you're ready to take the plunge, remember there is no backing out.]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Choose your steps wisely here now, if possible just read the main points and see if you have done all those first. that will save your data in some case and in some save you from getting all messed up.
CORA, (CODE OF RECOVERING ANDROID)
For NON-ROOT USERS
Safe mode
Stock recovery
Download Mode
FOR ROOTED USERS
Custom recovery,
Nandroid BACKUP,
Download mode
Safe mode
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WITHOUT MODIFYING SYSTEM FOR HARDCORE STOCK USER
1. SAFE MODE
This mode generally helps when the problem is arising from 3rd party apps and is making your droid reboot again and again, lagging, hanging issues, so whatever is causing problem, if you can reach here, you can uninstall them clear their data and cache, and yes, free up some internal space too and backup your data from settings-backup as well. then factory reset if you want to.
2. STOCK RECOVERY WAY
You have never rooted your droid and you don't want to root and you don't want to move away from stock, well pressing the Power and Volume Down(left button) will take you there.
try to clear cache/data factory reset(will lose you data stored on internal droid) and yes it does solve few of the cases, even if it doesn't look so promising, it has solved, and will solve quiet a few issues. no chance of getting that data stored on internal., phone book, messages, chats.
3. THE DOWNLOAD MODE WAY
Flash a stock firmware Explained in post the download way.​
Code:
Now if you are already Rooted or want to Root to have a better option of saving your data, or reviving your droid
it's like performing a surgery on your body by yourself.
So be careful, you have been warned, Samsung voids the warranty,
and I don't give any Guarantees that these Instructions will work for all.
MODIFYING FOR PEOPLE WHO RISK IT
1. Getting Rooted
2. Custom recovery Way and (post number 4)
3. Download mode Way. (post number 5)
AND FOR THOSE WHO WILL BLAME ME
Seriously?
The most important and most essential part here is GETTING/HAVING a NANDROID BACKUP, the very FIRST THING that you MUST HAVE DID/DONE upon getting ROOTED. Make a Stable Clone guys.
You will need to get rooted and custom recovery to do that, not to forget enabling the USB Debugging Option from Settings->about device-> Build number-> press 7 times->back->developer->Enable USB Debugging and that's the beginning my friend.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Other threads with good post for the tab 2 series about rooting guides, containing firmware links, recoveries, Roms list, kernels, pretty much everything.
All about P51xx
All about P31xx
Latest Roms, Recoveries updated by Android-andi, the best developer around here
other droid users please look it up under your device thread tree, they will surely have a way, tailored and to the point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Getting Rooted is only advised if you're going to stay on stock rom, debloating the system and making changes yourself.
if you're going to install a custom rom, which would be generally rooted, so you can skip to getting a custom recovery first.
CF auto Root are better option for any device to get rooted rather than other options
CFauto-root GT-P3100
CF auto root for GT-P51xx
or you can visit the chainfire homepage for your device which contains the root file for almost every device.
ROOT FROM DEVICE WITHOUT PC
in cases where you can't use ODIN for rooting or you want root your droid and there is still no method explained for Root on XDA then using framaroot, towel root, baidu, kingo or any other app(they can root some sets of droid) is advised, without ODIN or in case you couldn't connect your tab to the PC with the USB, only then these apps are good ways to get root. after that you can use flashify app or other apps for same purpose that has the feature to flash .img files, you can also use Mobile Odin app which can pretty much work when you can't use Odin from Pc.
then you can download a copy of the custom recovery image.(recovery.img) browse in the app and let it do the installation for you. this is useful for droids which doesn't have that much support like we and others have here
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Common Issues faced
If you have read about my explanation of android's partitions in the OP(Original Post above), you would know where exactly to look for the problems. Moving on,
For other Geeks
Please remind me if I missed few things, you see I have put up this Guide mostly of the files I have in my system partition,I might have missed few that were stored in data or cache partition
1. Tab is Stuck on Charging Screen. Tab is not turning On, battery completely depleted/Not charging, Nothing is Working​
Possibilities
* if the tab doesn't feels warm even after charging for a whole day,
F1. Battery dead,
F2. Circuit/Motherboard blown,
F3. Bad Charger/charging point
F4. No electricity
if it's getting warm and still not turning on
F5. Hardware buttons not working
F6. Motherboard needs replacement.
F7. Flashed a bootloader/kernel(along with a Rom/firmware), or something not meant for your device, which is the hard brick in this category please refer to case number 5. (process on post 2)
F8. Some Custom Roms have bugs that won't Charge, stay stuck on the battery icon, unless you remove the plug and turn on. always read before flashing a Rom, if there are no info, better ask the developer before you go flashing or post your Question in related thread where they would get noticed.
2. Stuck On Samsung Logo Screen.​
This could be from various reasons generally not so serious ones mostly recoverable issues of which, some are
Flashed a incompatible Custom Rom zip or any other flashable zip containing files not meant for the exact device.
Flashed a kernel/ bootloader incompatible with the Rom, wrong kernel modules, messed up system lib files, (lucky enough to still not be in hard bricked section.)
Formatted system partition and there is no OS installed. (one of the silliest mistakes I have done)
Some other that I maybe forgetting just like I completely forgot about the above
Possible Solutions
Go to the stock recovery and wipe data/factory reset (this will make your precious data that you stored vanish, except data stored on SDcard) (explained further in post 3)
Get a working stable compatible kernel/Rom or flash stock firmware. (explained in post 2 and 3)
Download from a different source cause chances are the file got corrupted or infected while downloading or transferring. (post 3)
Find the file that is stopping the device from booting up, starting from the kernel, to the system files. duh?
Go to the custom recovery way.
Go to the download way
3. Stuck in a Boot Loop.​
Boot Loops are crazy and they will make you mad, they can hit you anytime for even little of tasks, Root or not root, either you are testing a new app, modifying/copying/editing/deleting/overwriting files in the system or data that don't even look so dangerous, just flashing some mod, GAPPS, or just updates rolled out by devs(nothing against them) this will surely hit you, no matter how focused and diligently you work. boot loops will make you do hula hoops.
Boot Loop is generally solved by
Hello? whatever you did that I mentioned above, just roll it back.
if you can't figure it out, well then
Remember the CORA order Quoted above in the first post? Read on
Safe Mode?
Go to recovery and clear cache then reboot.
Clear data/factory reset from stock recovery(data stored will be lost) (root users can skip this and directly go to 7)
No, Recovery?, You sure pressed the button nicely?
Flash a custom recovery image(recovery.tar) from Odin
Repeat from 1-3
Backup/Restore from Nandroid backup
Don't sit for the next exams without memorizing your lesson.
Cleared cache/dalvik cache?
Flash a Compatible Custom kernel
Find the stock replacement of the file/app you messed up from a firmware or a custom Rom, put it in a flashable zip and flash it (advance users)
Clear/data factory reset either from custom recovery. (*loses data)
Flash the Custom Rom, first dirty flash then clean flash.
Flash a Stock firmware from Odin. (loses data)
4. Stuck On Firmware Upgrade Encountered an Issue.​
Well this problems hits non-root users and root users too? why? because we wanted an update.
it was trying to upgrade and something got in between to make it stop
Battery/Power/Electricity - for non root users, the most common culprit would be the battery, seriously guys, please keep the battery in mind always. it's a very common mistake that cost many of users. For ODIN users, please see you have a uninterrupted supply of power to your device and you are using latest version along with Hi speed USB ports.
kies!!! I hate that thing and majority of others will support me here. I got rid of it the day I installed that thing on my PC.
interruption from the user side while the device was taking an upgrade. removed battery? fell down on the floor? no?
hardware issue, unlikely, rare I would say, in case the device did came out with a weak emmc card.
Bad/wrong firmware downloaded files.
In case you had a custom recovery and its still working, check the custom recovery way
I Know 1st didn't helped you,
Refer to the Download Mode way and get a custom recovery
Don't forget to clear cache, you do know that's where the device keeps the downloaded/image firmware file, and that's where it is installing/extracting from. the dream partition, no wonder you got errors. you got a nightmare now
try the download mode way
probably it's best that you either forget about the mobile, or give it to a service center for a J-TAG and get it repaired.
I knew you would look here, there is indeed a last ray of hope, explained at the last thing to do in download mode way
5. Bricked.​
There are 3 types of Bricks, Soft Hard and The Brick, That's it.
Soft brick
well you are safe and sound, you can even recover from custom recovery mode.
Hard brick
skynet has fallen, just like it infected the droid Arnold Schwarzenegger of the terminator version 3.0, the codes were injected into his heart making the brain dis balance and resulting in partial heart seizure and a coma, but he still had the cache and data part intact along with recovery, so it went there, restored a nandroid backup and went online again. BAM!! so easy. but why? I mean ours droid having reached version 6.0 can't recover from the same way? Where only hope here is a CPR or getting J-TAGGED? not to mention, which should be done by expert surgeons who would charge exorbitant . So, don't waste time with a jig or any other miracle to happen and please don't go on the droid with a shocking therapy. I am more of a practical guy and prefer professionalism.
The Brick
err, that's the solid one, put that on your heart, and forget about this droid and shell out money for a new one. : that's what the company wants to tell you here and that's the reason it doesn't want to put the nandroid on the stock recovery cause they want the blame on you and not them. shhh, keep it hidden, don't say I told you their secret
General Overview of the Next Options we have.
a. The Download Mode Way
Before going this way I would suggest you see the recovery mode way, if it's not working for you, then go ahead here.
You have four things that you can do (other's I never needed to venture upon)
1. Flash a Recovery -
In case you want to change or update a Recovery or fix/access a Recovery again, to root, complete backup from recovery(nandroid), install new custom Rom, install stock Rom, plenty of options here. Probably the safest option here cause you don't lose your data unless you do something wrong here as to format it. whether you root your tablet or not, install a custom Rom or stay on stock, everyone MUST have a custom recovery, I don't understand why Stock recovery can't have this option as well?
2. Flash a stock firmware package -
in case you are on stock recovery never rooted,
can't reach or can't flash anything using custom recovery,
bootloops(applied in all cases), want to revert back to stock factory state. tab system is behaving weirdly, virus and Trojans attacked or you just want to upgrade or change your droid firmware.
Note Using this method, will result in the loss of all your data stored on the device internal card.
3. Flashing a Bootloader
Generally these are included in every stock firmware pack. if you had a ICS(4.0.4) stock Rom, and the device got an Official JB(4.2.2) update. you must update to that firmware first before flashing any later custom Roms[from kk to M(6.0)], the version which never got released officially. flashing this part separately is very risky and done with utmost care, remember it's your droid heart. don't fool around with it.
3. Flash firmware with pit file -
Warning : this is some high level flashing, it will re partition your device along with the stock firmware. in cases where NOTHING ELSE on the whole Internet worked for you, and you have tried almost everything, only then choose this path with clear mind. make mistake in this, and your tab will virtually turn into a paperweight. if you're not sure you could handle it, please send it for the service centers. this is going to flash every part of the droid's body
4. Flash the 4 files with pit
This is the secret way, where miracles can happen even when there was no hope of recovering yourself.
b. The Recovery Mode Way
Stock recovery - Here You can clear cache, there is nothing much happening in clearing cache, just clearing some temporary files and making you feel like you have got some space cleared out. it's just files that you most probably already used.
data/factory reset and reboot. Easy and simple solution . that does solve some of the problems you face without modifying your device much. so those of you who are afraid to flashing things and ending up on some bigger mistake, you can give this a try, but keep in mind, you will lose all your data stored in the device.
there is apply update from recovery, but that seldom has use in an average android user's life nothing much of a recovery.
Go to download mode way of flashing a custom recovery
or
If you have rooted your tab somehow using framaroot, towel root, baidu or any other app, without ODIN in case you can't connect your tab to the PC with the USB, then you can use flashify app or Kernel Adiutor(the latest one) or any other apps that has the feature to flash img from inside the device OS. you can download a copy of the custom recovery image.(recovery.img) browse in the app and let it do the installation for you.
Custom recovery - Here you have many things that you can do depending upon which recovery and which version you choose. CWM is past, philz is ok, TWRP is awesome. most of the options are common in these 3, but some are really better and fast than the previous ones. we will discuss only one, my favorite TWRP(Respect for the legend CWM though), the process is common on all but twrp is more feature rich.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Important files you must have NANDROID BACKUP, STOCK FIRMWARE, PIT FILE, and 4 FILES FIRMWARE PACKAGE, GET them even before you need to search for them
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Setting Up Everything
Before proceeding Always keep device battery fully charged and NEVER go flashing on low battery. Very Risky. Don't forget.
Always check the files that you are going to flash on your device. generally files will have device model mentioned in their filename.
Be Sure that you don't lose electricity or laptop on low battery while working. the device takes time to update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Things you need to Set up a 'Flashing Environment'
No, I am not going to talk about a flashy party setup ​
i. PC running Windows 7 and 8 (with 10 I haven't flashed anything yet, but it works.)
ii. A working data cable(some cables are bad and will not detect your device if you see unknown device better get a new one)
iii. Samsung USB Drivers it's much better than having samsung kies on your pc. I would personally suggest from my experience along with many people who have suffered from samsung kies, it's not worth the hassle. ODIN and KIES don't work alongside, so you will have to close.
iv. ODIN 3.10 (download plus instructions as well I used 1.85, 3.07, 3.09 All worked, and so will 3.10. if not, try different ones from Odin 1-85 to 3.07. these links have more step by step and detailed covering what I have left.
v. 7Zip better download this cause it can unpack most of the files.
Press and hold Power and Volume Up(right) button on your device for few good minutes until you see a download mode screen
Connect your USB cable to PC and press Up to Continue. sometimes there could be problem with the USB ports, you should check in all the ports available. avoid USB hubs or the front panel USB in case of PC, don't let a faulty port ruin this for you.
Problem/Failed with Odin? Refer to this thread Good Points here as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DOWNLOADING AND READING FILES
Believe it, this a very big problem that people tend to overlook
The file you need will look something like these
"P5100XXDMD1_P5100OJVDME1_P5100XXDLL2_EUR.tar.7z"
where
P5100 - Generally the first 5 letters/numbers means a device model number.
XXDMD1 this is PDA which will be 5 letters(much older devices)-6 letters denoting firmware build version.
OJVDME1 is CSC version these just contains regional wise APN, nothing much.
XXDLL2 is Modem version.
EUR is Country Code.
.7z means you need 7zip to extract this file.
Now see these 2 examples here
"S7562XXALJ4_S7562OXXALJ3_S7562XXLJ3_HUN.tar" and "S7562CZNUAMI2_S7562CCHUAMI2_CHU zip"
Sure it's S7562 device but wait the other one is S7562C !!! totally different device firmware. make mistake here and you are sure going to lose.
I Hope you can make out the difference now for every device now.
Now the real file that you need will always be inside a zip/tar/7z the correct format is "P5100XXDMD1_P5100OJVDME1_P5100XXDLL2.tar.md5 "
Remember to extract it and get the md5 file.
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These are the known best sources
Enter and Download device model on sammobile
P5100 sammobile
P5110 sammobile
P5113 sammobile
P3100 sammobile
P3113 sammobile
*Bump Download firmwares available smart-gsm.net
Download firmwares available easy-firmware.com​The Only reason I am putting this here is while I was searching for genuine websites, I had a very hard time finding through sites that looks nothing else than scams and fakes and rarely had files that I needed and password protected. this websites has ads, but looks organized and for tab series, it had at-least all the firmwares downloading.
PHP:
Yes so, it will take time and require a good internet speed, there are other sites, but I don't recommend them unless they are from good source or sometimes the only option. Options are also available from GSMhosting site as well, its another good community but I feel XDA is much better. still if you have no options. you have to get it somehow. just stay away from the survey sites and bogus ones. specially the blogspot ones.

Recovery Mode Way
Recovering from a custom recovery
Important Part​Creating Nandroid Backup - This is the most important thing that you will ever need, and will always regret not having it when you chose this path, should be the first priority.
Getting Inside
Switch off the device
Let it completely shutdown
Hold Power and Volume Down(left button)
This is how it looks saw that backup button? yes that is where you tap first (other recoveries will have different looks, but same "backup" and
This is where you do it . by tapping again or navigating through the volume up and down button in case of older recoveries this would not at all be same, this is the most latest feature rich recovery.
Those Running CWM older builds, won't find the options to select boot, system cache and data and instead there will be just "backup" and backup to external.
CWM by default will Backup boot, system, data, cache partitions. Philz will also do it. But TWRP has better features. although they do the same. You just select system, boot, data and cache. that would be all to recover using nandroid backup.
Now here it depends on what you are trying to do and what would you like to recover from, also depends on what you are comfortable with doing and how much space you can spare. if you have a lot, I would say skip this step and backup all for once.
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Not Noob Friendly
if you have that same custom Rom zip that you would like to restore the backup of, then there is no need to copy/backup /system partition again, it will save you some space. so you can skip it in that case for TWRP.
if you're only going to modify device kernel - backup boot. or just data if you already have the custom Rom with kernel.
other than that twrp offers what CWM lacked, skip md5 generation during backup well this is a good option and saves some time while backup, on restoring you can also enable or disable it. the purpose of this is simple, md5 is like a security/seal on your backup file, so you don't mess up anything while restoring it on your device. after all you never know when a virus might attack or you might put the wrong files on it. if you are sure about your talents, you can skip it or else it's better to let it generate and verify while restore. CWM has this setup as default.
Now you have one? GREAT! GENIUS!! Now whenever you encounter a problem make sure you can use it like a BOSS.
Restore Nandroid Backup​
Enter recovery mode by Pressing Power and Volume Down(left button),
you reach the main screen,
you see a "restore" option and tap it,
you will see folders name starting with the date you made a nandroid backup,
you recognize which one you want by the date and information listed there, and select it. CWM only offered dates, but twrp even offers more detailed info including OS version and Rom name. one more reason I suggest you to use twrp.
In case you want only data to be restored, then you choose advanced restore and check the data and restore. but before doing this part make sure you are not restoring conflicting data or system or kernel with incompatible versions.
you can't restore a data backup from a Jellybean Rom and put it on a custom Rom based on Lollipop, neither a kernel from Lollipop to jellybean.
Data should only be recovered on the same Rom you took the backup from.
In case the custom Rom developer rolls an update of the same fixing issues,(not some major changes) then you can in some cases think of getting this worked out smoothly. This is called a "dirty flash". which is the reason why sometimes users experience problems running certain Roms, even when they are good and stable Roms. So before complaining to devs make sure you follow the clean install method.
Note: System and data most of the times will cause problems. Kernels are not meant at all to play with. they are the biggest source of bricks.
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​
Wiping Part - Steer Clear the problems away
this is where wipe takes place[PIC]
here are the wipes options on a custom recovery
Factory reset - Wipes cache, dalvik, data/ excluding your media part on the internal drive.(your pics, videos are safe)
this will generally clear you problems if they are not some big issues. but you will lose the apps and contacts messages stored.
Advanced wipe - Format system
you can try to do this first if you don't want to lose your data while troubleshooting.
format system if you're facing issues with the files on system partition, but remember to install the same Rom you had earlier. if you had stock, you will need a stock Rom zip not to forget keeping the file ready beforehand on the external SD card.
Beware while navigating in advance wipe menu, never wipe in a hurry, never drink and wipe, never take eyes off here, cause you might end up touching external SD card, USB-OTG, internal storage and lose your precious data
Format data - this wipes the data partition
problems arising from the data partition side could be solved here, but you lose your precious data on the internal and get rid of the bad, virus, trojans, trouble making apps.​
How to perform A CLEAN INSTALL when you are going to update to a new Rom?
Factory Reset and Format System, Format CACHE
or
Format /System, Format /Data, Format /Cache, WIPE Dalvik Cache, Factory Reset.
This will Surely Solve Some Great & Average Problems of Day to Day Flashing.[/B]
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What's a Dirty Flash then?
Format System, without Deleting Data partition. before doing this, please do a nandroid backup in case you mess things up. if not, format system again and flash the Rom that was initially running with that data.
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Now Comes the Installing part
Installing Menu​
You download a copy of a custom Rom or stock Rom, after following the developer's thread, reading through it's bugs and reviews. you don't want a unstable or alpha Roms.
There would be installing process explained on that thread follow it and always make sure that inside the zip file it contains a meta-inf and system folder with boot.img) always look inside before going to flash, don't trust me, don't trust anyone. although
if you tried to flash a firmware zip file containing a .img file, without Meta-Inf folder, it won't flash. cause the custom recovery needs instructions from updater-script. Now, I know this was mostly going on like this before, but now with latest custom recoveries, (twrp) you can even flash .img files without needing a zip.
You perform a Clean Install wipe stated in the wipe section above
Reboot to Recovery(Don't select reboot to system, there is no system after clean wipe)
You browse through the files list and external storage,
Find that zip file and
Swipe or press or touch to flash it.
You wait for it to complete the process then
You can wipe/cache/dalvik and reboot or you just reboot. depends on what you choose "clean install" or "dirty install".
You want to report any errors while flashing? you are free to do so on the Rom thread, don't expect me to solve those cases.
If all went well, reboot to system and your tab should be up running again. if not refer to the Download mode Way.

The Download Mode Way
The Download Mode Way
1. FLASH A CUSTOM RECOVERY
Find the recoveries in their respective threads. For P51xx and P31xx Recovery thread others can look in their respective device sections, XDA has development thread of most of the Samsung devices and people do post there.
it should look like this on your address bar
"http forum.xda-developers.com / galaxy-tab-2 / general"
xda website /__ (devicename)/ (sub-forum)
(development) OR (/general) section
You can always google it too.
remember you will need a recovery.md5 that will be inside a zip file extract from it.
Always check whats in the archive then go the recovery mode way, it should be .md5
Sorry I have not put up detailed step by step process here because my guide is covering a lot of things already and this is something each device specific, refer to this For General step by step instructions with pictures, this has very detailed process.
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​
2 FLASH A STOCK FIRMWARE
These package contains files needed to update or revert to the same position where it was shipped to your country along with your android device. you can find all Samsung device firmwares released from all parts of the world, and yes, you can flash firmwares of other country/regions from the sammobile site just stay away from the carrier specific firmwares(unless you are on one) that should be used for the same specific carriers device only they are married to the carrier company and probably won't let you have your own ways with others.
You should also remember not to downgrade a stock firmware once you have upgraded, that will surely create problems​
Run Odin as administrator
Browse PDA/AP and find the firmware .md5 file
This is how you should see on your ODIN screen. always be very very careful to uncheck the Re-partition. it's unchecked by default.
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Code:
The yellow column/(Blue for other versions) means
your device is detected by the PC.
If it's not lit, you have messed up USB drivers
still not uninstalled kies Completely or
not connected the device properly.
try changing to different USB Ports.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Press Start
Wait for the process to complete and let the device reboot from download mode
Remove cable when you see PASS written with green above the Yellow/Blue com port.
PHP:
Most Problems are solved here when you see success/PASS.
Except one The emmc bug. Replace the internal emmc, or J-TAG or
mysteriously something else done by professionals.
[*]if it shows failed, see if you can go to recovery mode and clear data, check Mount/Unmount System, data
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if it still says failed, the downloaded file is corrupted, wrong Odin version(try with different Odin versions) you have flashed wrong device files which has messed up the partition table of your device. refer to other ways.
Threads with good post for the tab 2 series these contains firmware links, guides, recoveries, Roms list, kernels pretty much everything.
All about P51xx
All about P31xx
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3. FLASH A BOOTLOADER
First ask yourself why you would want to do this?
Be extra careful with this part, if you have already flashed a updated firmware, you don't need this part.
Those who are using old stock firmware, please flash a stock last updated firmware. you won't need to do this.
Those who did not follow the above two, so it's now unto you, this a risky thing, you have been advised you are going further yourself
Those who are experiencing problems that are not solved even after most of my other instructions here, then it's onto you to decide you want to try this too or not. this could solve problems when device is in serious condition, after all it's the heart partition and remember no downgrades in this once you upgrade. thats it. this could seriously create problems, including bringing back the emmc issue as well.
Refer to this DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS to FLASH A BOOTLOADER for SAMSUNG TAB 2 SERIES follow safely by @Joery360 other users please be careful with these files and don't go on flashing others files? okay. Great!
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4. FLASH FIRMWARE WITH PIT FILE
Wait!! You are sure that you want to try this part? this is the point of no return. Whatever happens to your device by following this guide, good or bad, it's your own responsibility. You can't blame me for it. so be sensible, if you're not sure please let this be done by someone who has the experience of dealing with this kind of stuff.
Now pit files are some serious files, they contain information about your device partition and they help flash erase and rewrite files on their correct partition, so better not take a wrong file, sometimes you have the same device but different internal space, so don't end up choosing a pit file for a 8 GB variant on your 16 GB variant of device, in that case your device will end up using 8gb only, or worse if it's other device, it might never boot up again.
Always remember don't flash pit files ever without a firmware file in place.
Download Pit files for Samsung tab 2 p51xx p31xx series
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Click to collapse
Run Odin as administrator
Browse PDA and find the firmware .md5 file
Browse Pit and select the pit file (reminder : file confirmed?)
Make Sure Re-partition is checked cause we are using Pit File to re partition again
Never flash a Pit file without a firmware placed in PDA/AP
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Press Start
Wait for the process to complete and let the device reboot from download mode
Remove cable when you see PASS written with green above the Yellow/Blue com port.
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Click to collapse
if it shows failed while flashing, you did used correct files, right? after this if there is still a download mode running on your device. try the special case files.
this has happened with me on a unknown MTK device, the pit file was slightly different from the original one on device, so it failed, but that was at the start before it could flash. I did somehow managed to flash that different pit file, just lost some disk space. cause I used a lower variant pit but it got the device running up again.
The device takes a long time to boot while it's updating firmware, so you are required to have sufficiently charged battery, Take no chances here.
if even after a successful flash with Odin, you face problems, then that's a emmc bug case. motherboard replacement or emmc replacement, or tab replacement. nothing else.
5. FLASH PIT WITH 4 FILES FIRMWARE
Find the repair firmware files at this Website
it has the 4 files for most of the devices including the Tab 2 series
Instructions for using these 4 files, however please note that the only difference would be the ODIN versions, cause device needs specific ODIN version, some can flash all.
this is the only way, that I have seen working for numerous devices and it is most successful one among all options to recover an almost bricked device, on which you have tried everything.
For other devices
Find them here
​
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you'll find these buttons on every post.
it's better to notify a user when you're asking that user a question or use @username of the user for mentioning in your post, that will give in a notification for you.

I think there could be more, i know it's already lengthy but who knows?