Ok, where do I start. Here is my problem: Any of the leaked based rom get stuck at the black & white stripes (wich I flashed many time without problem) Let me explain the chain of event that got me that point.
Last week I installed the leak ( Acer_A500_1.031.00_WW_GEN1 ) and rooted it and patched the bootloader with blackthunder's apx tool that also installed a modified version of thor's cwm that work with ICS bootloader. Everything worked fine but knowing that civato's flexreaper support the ics bootloader I decided to install it...R11 worked fine (even the b&w stripes at boot was gone...thx to the ics bootloader).
This is where it got crazy, while doing simple web browsing, i got a freeze that obliged me to force shutdown. On reboot, I got a bootloop at bootanim. Decided to flash FlexR11 over it to fix. During the flash I received an error about flexrom. Rebooted and the bootloop persisted. Then cwm started to be slow responding to navigation with volume rocker, so I decided to flash Acer_A500_1.031.00_WW_GEN1 again wich didn't boot too. Cwm was still there but even more screwed, would not see any sdcard int or ext. I tried to apx push a recovery with blackthunder's tools with no success.
I finally got it back to life with TimmyDean's EUUs flashing a rooted 3.2.1. with HC bootloader. Now the only ICS rom I can install is thor's rom ..everything work fine. BUT any of the leaked based rom get stuck at the lines and even the leak itself after being installed get stuck at the acer logo...and cwm is still present where it should have been overwriten.
I think it may have something to do with flexrom (i guess thor don't use that partiton since it's for acer crapware)...but im not sure since 3.2.1 work with acer's stuff & all. Maybe the bootloader is corrupt in some way, but it was reinstalled by the EUUs tool anyway.
I tried to format everything including flexrom..tried both civato's kernel in case there are some bits of ics bootloader left... Im desesperate trying to understand what's wrong exactly and how to fix this.
Anyone have an idea? Thx in advance & sorry for my average english.
lowsum said:
Ok, where do I start. Here is my problem: Any of the leaked based rom get stuck at the black & white stripes (wich I flashed many time without problem) Let me explain the chain of event that got me that point.
Last week I installed the leak ( Acer_A500_1.031.00_WW_GEN1 ) and rooted it and patched the bootloader with blackthunder's apx tool that also installed a modified version of thor's cwm that work with ICS bootloader. Everything worked fine but knowing that civato's flexreaper support the ics bootloader I decided to install it...R11 worked fine (even the b&w stripes at boot was gone...thx to the ics bootloader).
This is where it got crazy, while doing simple web browsing, i got a freeze that obliged me to force shutdown. On reboot, I got a bootloop at bootanim. Decided to flash FlexR11 over it to fix. During the flash I received an error about flexrom. Rebooted and the bootloop persisted. Then cwm started to be slow responding to navigation with volume rocker, so I decided to flash Acer_A500_1.031.00_WW_GEN1 again wich didn't boot too. Cwm was still there but even more screwed, would not see any sdcard int or ext. I tried to apx push a recovery with blackthunder's tools with no success.
I finally got it back to life with TimmyDean's EUUs flashing a rooted 3.2.1. with HC bootloader. Now the only ICS rom I can install is thor's rom ..everything work fine. BUT any of the leaked based rom get stuck at the lines and even the leak itself after being installed get stuck at the acer logo...and cwm is still present where it should have been overwriten.
I think it may have something to do with flexrom (i guess thor don't use that partiton since it's for acer crapware)...but im not sure since 3.2.1 work with acer's stuff & all. Maybe the bootloader is corrupt in some way, but it was reinstalled by the EUUs tool anyway.
I tried to format everything including flexrom..tried both civato's kernel in case there are some bits of ics bootloader left... Im desesperate trying to understand what's wrong exactly and how to fix this.
Anyone have an idea? Thx in advance & sorry for my average english.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you have data leftover (either not a good enough wipe, or corrupted data)
Try this. Note that this will reformat your entire internal memory, but will ensure all remaining data is cleaned up and removed.
Before installing your rom;
1. Wipe User Data
2. Wipe Cache
3. Wipe DalviK
4. Wipe Battery Stats
go to Backup and Restore. Select "Toggle backup and restore of internal storage (/data/media). Enable this setting by selecting it. By default, it is disabled. Then proceed to the formatting steps. This will format the Entire Internal Memory when you proceed.
Select Go Back, Goto Mounts and Storage
1. Format System
2. Format Cache
3. Format Dalvik
4. Format Flexrom
This WILL format your entire internal memory, so if you have something important, you need to copy it out. Note that this should not effect things on the Ext SD Card.
Thanks for replying, yes I already done that, the problem persist. I wonder if it could be the bootloader, but like I said, other roms works, only the leak based have problem. Is there a way to "format" the bootloader? It should have been reset to HC when I applied 3.2.1 in apx... hmmm very strange!
lowsum said:
Thanks for replying, yes I already done that, the problem persist. I wonder if it could be the bootloader, but like I said, other roms works, only the leak based have problem. Is there a way to "format" the bootloader? It should have been reset to HC when I applied 3.2.1 in apx... hmmm very strange!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, more than likely it is indeed a bootloader issue. But you must understand, all these "leaked" ICS roms are what they are... BETA. And with each new leak, there's a different bootloader. So you have to pay attention to the instructions for the specific leak. Usually involves flashing a newer or older bootloader to match the rom.
Until Acer releases an "official" ICS Rom and source code for the 500/501, these issues are going to be around for awhile.
My choice, would be to run a 3.2.1 rom. Very few issues with some of the mildly modded ones. Then wait awhile, till the official ICS updates come out.
One good thing out of this, you learned some tricks on how to recovery from some "semi-bricks"
I think the leak may not be the source of the problem, I already installed 009 when it first appeared a couple of weeks ago, and restored with EUU without problem, but this time with 031 I rooted it with blackthunder's root tool and applied a modified bootloader and cwm recovery. Even if I restore 3.2.1 with timmydean's EUU package and hc bootloader, the leak base rom get stuck at the b&w lines (where it's looking for the bootloader or loading kernel). It make no sense to me that the leak is the source of the problem. Is there a diagnosis tool that can check my partition integrity? Still wonder...!
lowsum said:
I think the leak may not be the source of the problem, I already installed 009 when it first appeared a couple of weeks ago, and restored with EUU without problem, but this time with 031 I rooted it with blackthunder's root tool and applied a modified bootloader and cwm recovery. Even if I restore 3.2.1 with timmydean's EUU package and hc bootloader, the leak base rom get stuck at the b&w lines (where it's looking for the bootloader or loading kernel). It make no sense to me that the leak is the source of the problem. Is there a diagnosis tool that can check my partition integrity? Still wonder...!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, this is one of the reasons I decided not to mess any further with the ICS builds till a good official version comes out
I'm not aware of any tools to check partition integrity. Maybe there may be something in the main Android Dev forum.
RA Recovery has an option to check your partitions, but I believe it only gives a current status whether they are EXT3 or EXT4.
Moscow Desire said:
Well, this is one of the reasons I decided not to mess any further with the ICS builds till a good official version comes out
I'm not aware of any tools to check partition integrity. Maybe there may be something in the main Android Dev forum.
RA Recovery has an option to check your partitions, but I believe it only gives a current status whether they are EXT3 or EXT4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is possible to rebuild your partition structure from scratch (using SBK + bootloader + nvflash create command + bct + flash.cfg + system image + recovery image + boot image + probably some other things) but I'm not sure of anyone that has done this and I can't say I have myself. Using timmydean's method (with a, what looks like, leaked Acer A500 Flash Tool) should, in theory, wipe it clean and start again.
I created a flash bundle to reset back to version EUUs_SBK_Acer_A500_1.016.05_COM_GEN1 (it's on the forum I use which I got tempbanned for mentioning publicly ) but it's untested. I see no reason it shouldn't work, however.
I tried another way to restore my tab, this time flashing a leak based rom with RA recovery instead. This time i had a little different behavior, during flash process, formating flexrom froze for a while outputing this error: Random Offset : 0x188 ...the rest flashed normally. At first boot it froze after 2sec during bootanimation, before it froze at the black & white lines.
I think I may have a corrupted flexrom partition, so Im wondering, does the recovery*doing a quick format erasing only the first sectors? If so, is there any way to do a deep format?
Related
Well, flashing a custom ROM on our beloved Iconias became quite easy now thanks to developers on xda. Most of you are quite familiar with the procedure but there are still people that ask basic things all over the ROM developement threads. This is just a beginner's guide, an attempt to collect all the procedures and tools in one thread. Nothing of this is my work and I would like to say THANK YOU to sc2k, thor2002ro, Euclid's Brother, Chainfire, monki-magic, drellisdee, ezterry, Skrilax_CZ, gersma and all A500 developers for making this possible.
You will need the following: external SD card, root rights, unlocked bootloader (if you're on stock ICS), custom recovery and a custom ROM of your choice.
Well lets start by placing an SD card in the SD card expansion slot. Its file system should be FAT32!
*This is optional: To be sure it is recognized later in CWM, format it first with SD Formatter - a tool that can be downloaded from here. Use your home computer / notebook with a card reader for this procedure. Alternatively you can do this using an ANDROID phone.
1.ROOT
Root for Honeycomb 3.0.1 by monki-magic
original thread by Slowie911 here
1. Make sure usb debugging is turned on and unknown sources is selected in Applications settings.
2. Have a micro sd card inserted and turn the tablet on portrait mode and lock it with the switch to fix it in portrait.
3. Download and execute the attached apk. (i had to download from my comp and transfer to the tablet for it to work).
4. Once the apk is installed run the root procedure within the app which was installed
5. Wait and you will receive full root access.
Download Gingerbreak 1.20
Root for Honeycomb 3.1 by sc2k thread here
1. Goto Settings->Applications and enable "Unkown sources"
2. Download the attached APK file
3. Copy the file to your Iconia
4. Install the APK & start the tool
5. Click "root"
6. Enjoy
/IconiaRoot should work on both 3.0.x and 3.1/
Download Iconiaroot 1.3
Root for Honeycomb 3.2.x OTA
Unfortunately there's no dedicated rooting app yet developed for HC3.2. It also comes with a new bootloader. In order to get root you need to revert to an older version of Honeycomb first where Iconiaroot works. How to do that is explained in details in this thread
UPDATE: if you're on OTA HC 3.2.x then you can just update to ICS and use the method for rooting ICS - links posted below
Root for ICS 4.x.x OTA
Stock ICS Leak One-Click Root Tool by blackthund3r
or
Full root for A500 ICS 4.0.3 - Simple method, posted by ZeroNull
2. Bootloader
Since there are many new ICS custom ROMs and custom recoveries, please read in their dedicated threads if they require ICS bootloader. Some of the ROMs can recognize the version of your bootloader and load the proper boot.img during boot. In general - if you're on Honeycomb - you have HC bootloader. If you've updated OTA to ICS, then you have stock ICS bootloader, that is unusable for flashing custom ROMs and therefore you need the unlocked bootloader. A guide on how to install it read here - thanks civato. This thread links to a nice little piece of software (option 1) by gersma that can automatically do all the job for you - install ICS unlocked bootloader and custom recovery. Read and download here - AfterOTA by gersma
3.Custom recovery
original thread with clockworkmod recovery by thor2002ro here
1. Open Market app with your tablet and search for Acer Recovery Installer.
Acer recovery installer
2. Install it and then open it. It has ClockworkMod Recovery by thor2002ro rev1.3.4 built-in.
3. Select "ClockworkMod Recovery rev.1.3.4 by thor2002ro". Tap on install Recovery Image. A popup offering to backup current recovery image will appear. Surely, buckup! Thus you can restore your original recovery image in case of need. Then CWM will be installed. Once it is installed you can remove Acer Recovery Installer tool from your system if you want.
thor2002ro updated CWM to 1.7.3. You can download the zip from tegraowners.com. Later versions of his recovery does not meet GPL because of the "mini" kernel of his - sources not being released. It supports flashing both from internal memory and the external SD card. In order to update your CWM to this latest version, place the downloaded ZIP on your external sd card and update from your CWM by choosing install zip from sd card. Alternatively you can extract the recovery.img from the zip, place it on your external sd card and install it through Acer Recovery Installer by choosing Custom or Stock recovery.img from micro sdcard.
GPL compliant recoveries
RA Revamped for Iconia
TeamWin Recovery Project (twrp) - needs ICS bootloader
A500 Public Recovery
Since the creation of AfterOTA by gersma, you can use his software to install both the bootloader and CWM before flashing the ROM. Get it HERE
4. Flashing custom ROM
Download the ROM of your choice which should be a zip file. Place the zip on your EXTERNAL SD card. Power off your device. Now hold volume down and power buttons together until you see text appearing on the top left corner of the screen - you can release both buttons now. Wait until CWM loads. Volume keys (Up and Down) are used to navigate the CWM menu. Power button is uded as "Enter" i.e. to proceed with your selection. Before going on to install your ROM do a full backup of your system first. Navigate to "backup and restore" and then select Full Backup. Wait untill the operation completes.
Now do the following:
Wipe menu:
- wipe data/factory reset -> navigate to "Yes - delete all user data"
this should format you data partition and cache partition (dalvik cache is gone as well)
Mounts and storage menu
- Format System
this should format your system partition
The above commands are presented in thor's CWM. There are slightly different menus and sub-menus in the other custom recoveries but if you dig a little you'll find that they do the same things and you'll get the idea of what you're doing.
Now you're ready to install your ROM. Get back to the main CWM menu and select
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
Navigate to your zip on the SD card and install it - choose "Yes" again to install. Wait untill installation is complete, return to the main CWM menu and choose "reboot system now".
You're done, enjoy your first custom ROM. Take time for its initial configuration.
5. Flashing custom KERNEL
Flashing custom kernel is as same as custom ROM. You place the zip (Kernels come in zip files as well) on your external SD card and:
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
It is recommended before flashing a new kernel to wipe cache partition and dalvik cache. And of course first you flash the ROM and then the desired Kernel
6. UNBRICKING by flashing a stock ROM
thanks to vache we have full packages shared in his topic
vache said:
Once the desired file downloaded, you have to use Acer Update Decryter by thor2002ro to decrypt them.
After decrypting the file, you have to extract the update.zip from it, put it on an external SDCard (does not work on internal memory) and boot your tablet with Vol- & Power. The update will launch automatically.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
p.s. Feel free to add stuff to this tutorial - video, pistures or anything you find useful or to correct me if I've made a mistake.
This is fantastic. Thank you. I have had my iconia for a month now and been looking at flashing a custom rom but kept backing out. Just a couple of questions for clarification:
(1). Does wiping data erase the internal sd?
(2). If by some stroke of bad luck a flash is unsuccessful and a boot loop or similar occurs, am I right in my understanding that you can just go straight back into recovery and re-flash?
(3). What are the chances of bricking the tablet?
Sorry for noon questions, please just wanna certain because my gf bought me this tablet under the condition I don't do anything risky like on my x10 that I flash almost daily haha
Thanks for replies
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
kylec said:
This is fantastic. Thank you. I have had my iconia for a month now and been looking at flashing a custom rom but kept backing out. Just a couple of questions for clarification:
(1). Does wiping data erase the internal sd?
(2). If by some stroke of bad luck a flash is unsuccessful and a boot loop or similar occurs, am I right in my understanding that you can just go straight back into recovery and re-flash?
(3). What are the chances of bricking the tablet?
Sorry for noon questions, please just wanna certain because my gf bought me this tablet under the condition I don't do anything risky like on my x10 that I flash almost daily haha
Thanks for replies
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. No, it doesn't.
2. Yes. You can do that. There's another option in mounts and storage -> format system - that will format even your system partition and leave your device bare with no ROM files on it. That would be a really clean install I guess
EDIT: I just saw that system is formatted during ROM installation. So no need to do that
3. Always read first what option you've selected and be sure you understand what it does. If you have CWM successfully installed, you have a powerfull tool to restore reflash, wipe, format etc. I've flashed my HD2 hundreds of times and now my Iconia is on the run Never ever had a boot failiure.
drkalo said:
1. No, it doesn't.
2. Yes. You can do that. There's another option in mounts and storage -> format system - that will format even your system partition and leave your device bare with no ROM files on it. That would be a really clean install I guess
3. Always read first what option you've selected and be sure you understand what it does. If you have CWM successfully installed, you have a powerfull tool to restore reflash, wipe, format etc. I've flashed my HD2 hundreds of times and now my Iconia is on the run Never ever had a boot failiure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much. I will click thanks when I'm on my computer :-D
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
VERY good information here. Thank you very much for taking the time.
I've flashed ROMS on my last two "chinatabs" but haven't gotten into it with my A500 yet. (To be frank, I'm still thrilled with the prospect of OTA updates from a manufacturer after my last experiences.)
It looks like the process is very similar to my Rena3 tablet.
strider_mt2k said:
VERY good information here. Thank you very much for taking the time.
I've flashed ROMS on my last two "chinatabs" but haven't gotten into it with my A500 yet. (To be frank, I'm still thrilled with the prospect of OTA updates from a manufacturer after my last experiences.)
It looks like the process is very similar to my Rena3 tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, that lays it out all nice and precise for us all. Like strider_mt2k, I have been holdng off on the custom ROMs, because my first tablet was a Gtab, and while it became a pretty awesome tablet, it had to be flashed with a custom ROM to be really usable. The OTA thing was holding me back. But I think that I may try to flash the thing this weekend if I get the chance.
Thanks. Glad it could be of use.
nice tutorial dude! thanks!!
could you please make another tutorial to return back to stock?
specially to return back to stock te kernel.
thanks!!!
As mentioned, best case is if you've backed up your device before flashing any ROM or Kernel. Thus you can restore to your country specific version.
Otherwise its pretty simple - its just like flashing any other ROM following the steps described.
Download the stock one that dr1337 shared from here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1154492
or choose the right full package - shared by vache:
decript it with Acer update decripter by thor2002ro
Of course they come with stock kernel
I am new in this with flashing and that kind of stuff.
Now is my question, how is it with updates from acer?
Greetz
distructor said:
How is it with updates from acer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure I understand your question. Could you be more specific?
if i put a custom rom on the device could i still use the build in update program of acer?
distructor said:
if i put a custom rom on the device could i still use the build in update program of acer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I can not tell you for sure. I haven't tried all of the custom ROMs but in most cases - no you won't be able. I've tried Tabooney, Honeyvillain, Virtuous Picasso, Virtuous Galaxy. ROM developers usually update their ROMs to the latest base available. I think it depends on many things - base, kernel, stock apps removed etc.
Maybe someone who have succeeded with custom ROM updating would share his experience.
Can anyone tell me if there is a version of ROM manager that supports the version of CWM that there is for the Iconia. I would love to be able to simplify my ability to backup my ROM's before flashing.
synapses11 said:
Can anyone tell me if there is a version of ROM manager that supports the version of CWM that there is for the Iconia. I would love to be able to simplify my ability to backup my ROM's before flashing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can install a clockworkmod for Iconia no matter of the version of ROM manager. But it is much much easier to use Acer Recovery Installer. I recommend you using it instead of playing with recovery img files. It is a one time procedure after all
Anyway - here's what you need to do if you don't want to use Acer recovery installer, or you don't want to use ADB:
http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/how-to-install-clockworkmod-recovery-3-using-rom-manager/
instead of CWM 3.x you will need to get CWM from thor2002ro In this guide you substitute the recovery that ROM Manager is about to flash with thor's CWM. I haven't tried this method myself but it should work.
With Acer Recovery Installer you can flash custom recovery as well. As long as you have it in IMG format you can be flashed from within the app - "install custom or stock recovery image from sd card".
great thread.
thanks!!!
Great Tutorial!!!
Just a couple of doubts:
First question: Backup files.
3. Flashing custom ROM
"...Before going on to install your ROM do a full backup of your system first. Navigate to "backup and restore" and then select Full Backup. Wait untill the operation completes. "
Where do the backup files go in the system? On internal or external SD card? Is it an *.img file extension?
Should i move it to my computer to keep it save, or just leave it where ever they are?
Second question: Kernel.
4. Flashing custom KERNEL
"Flashing custom kernel is as same as custom ROM. You place the zip (Kernels come in zip files as well) on your external SD card and:
- Install zip from sdcard -> choose zip from sdcard.
It is recommended before flashing a new kernel to wipe cache partition and dalvik cache. And of course first you flash the ROM and then the desired Kernel"
I am on Stock 3.1 ROM with original Kernel, if i want to try Virtuos Picasso, do i have to flash a new Kernel? And if yes, shouldn't i do it before flashing the ROM? Or just flash the ROM and then the Kernel? What happens if i just flash the Rom and use the stock kernel?
Thank you..
Your backup goes to your external SD card in a folder named clockworkmod\backup\2011-XX-XX.HH.MM.SS
As you can guess the name of the backup corresponds to the time it is created. This backup can be used to restore your system through CWM in case of need.
CWM does not backup /data/media folder. Additionally: you should also delete .android_secure.img from your backup set or a full restore will fail before it restores flexrom.
The last is an issue described by Euclid's brother:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=16467191&postcount=3
I am on Stock 3.1 ROM with original Kernel, if i want to try Virtuos Picasso, do i have to flash a new Kernel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, of course! Your custom ROM (Virtuous Picasso in your example) and any ROM comes with its Kernel. Its up to you to decide wheather to change it or not after that by flashing another Kernel. Follow every Kernel developer's notes for ROM compatibility. So, that answers the last part of your question - you cannot flash Virtuous Picasso and still think you're on stock kernel
drkalo said:
No, of course! Your custom ROM (Virtuous Picasso in your example) and any ROM comes with its Kernel. Its up to you to decide wheather to change it or not after that by flashing another Kernel. Follow every Kernel developer's notes for ROM compatibility. So, that answers the last part of your question - you cannot flash Virtuous Picasso and still think you're on stock kernel
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, i see...i thought that the flashing ROM procedure of a custom ROM, would just flash the ROM and not the Kernel...so in this case i just have to choose the ROM that i want to flash and do not have to pay attention about the Kernel compatibility...unless i flash a Kernel only. Right?
Thank you very much!!
That is correct
Got hands on an update for A501, but it's update only not a full package.
If someone is interested to build and then dump the full system (sorry don't have time to do it) :
1. Download this files :
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.015.15_4.031.24_COM_GEN1_1315884879002_1b385af8.zip
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.031.24_4.066.24_COM_GEN1_1323422721450_50889c0e.zip
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.066.24_4.066.29_COM_GEN1_1323422673354_fb18aaff.zip
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.066.29_041.126.01_COM_GEN1_1334565825911_78adda1e.zip
(You will have to decrypt packge to extract update.zip from them)
2. Wipe all with recovery
3. Install all packages in this order. (don't wipe between installs)
I may be able to provide a full dump this week-end if nobody did it.
Edit : Flashable (full) update : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=25050248&postcount=38
Thanks Vache!
Thanks, I'll try to take the time to flash all this...
This implies that those of us who are on 4.066.24 need only force up to 4.066.29 and from there to the final version? It also implies that the software is out there for updating to the "real world" instead of just being leaks. Is this your understanding as well?
yeaaaa tnxxxx
vache said:
Got hands on an update for A501, but it's update only not a full package.
If someone is interested to build and then dump the full system (sorry don't have time to do it) :
1. Download this files :
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.015.15_4.031.24_COM_GEN1_1315884879002_1b385af8.zip
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.031.24_4.066.24_COM_GEN1_1323422721450_50889c0e.zip
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.066.24_4.066.29_COM_GEN1_1323422673354_fb18aaff.zip
http://cdn.acer.futuredial.com/Acer_A501_4.066.29_041.126.01_COM_GEN1_1334565825911_78adda1e.zip
(You will have to decrypt packge to extract update.zip from them)
2. Wipe all with recovery
3. Install all packages in this order. (don't wipe between installs)
I may be able to provide a full dump this week-end if nobody did it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet! Will have to find a way to do this.
Thanks vache for the leak! Glad to see Acer has been working on ics for us a501 users.
Lets hope I get the 4g speeds.
Sent from my A501 using Tapatalk 2
Install OK.
Android 4.0.3
Acer_AV041_A501_0.001.00_WW_GEN1
3G works, SMS works.
This build number indicate it's a very early build but it works great, seems on par with the latest A500 leak.
Glad to see that Acer is finally working an our A501 !
installed all 4 OK after reboot it updates EBT and reboots again wiping out boot loader and recovery image.
Shows
Android Version 4.0.3
Baseband: Cust.R3C01 Config:R3S/3 Conf:R3C01 Protocol:R3B01 App:R3C01
Kernel: 2.6.39.4+
Image Version: Acer_AV041_A501_RV26RB01_WW_GEN1
Build Number: Acer_AV041_A501_0.001.00_WW_GEN1
3g initially did not work. I had to delete and recreate my APN for data to work.
Thanks Vache!
Now, I hope all of you are copying down your UID numbers before running the updates.
Will make things a whole lot easier if you need to roll back
What I also found is that if you try to go into recovery (vol down) it restores you back to Stock 3.2 HC Beware!
Also make sure you make a backup of all your stuff on internal SD card. the process will wipe it!!!!!
Thank you! Good)
There also apears to be something fishy with the update as well with the bootloader.
If you try to flash the custom bootloader with the thor recovery img each time it boots it appears to wipe the recovery image out and it wont go into recovery anymore after the first reboot and has to be flashed again? (shows dead android on its back with door open with red triangle)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1594873
Not sure whats happening there however it does come up in RED after the PASS shows.
Secure Boot: Image LNX checksum fail.
Is there some funnyness locking happening with this update?
What am I doing wrong?
Update: I went back to back up of my prior ROM "DEV][AOSP] ICS sources and build instruction for A501" and it doesn't wipe out the recovery image. Is this because the boot-loader is specific to this ROM as it is for 4.0.4? Any ideas?
Wombat
wornbat said:
There also apears to be something fishy with the update as well with the bootloader.
If you try to flash the custom bootloader with the thor recovery img each time it boots it appears to wipe the recovery image out and it wont go into recovery anymore after the first reboot and has to be flashed again? (shows dead android on its back with door open with red triangle)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1594873
Not sure whats happening there however it does come up in RED after the PASS shows.
Secure Boot: Image LNX checksum fail.
Is there some funnyness locking happening with this update?
What am I doing wrong?
Update: I went back to back up of my prior ROM "DEV][AOSP] ICS sources and build instruction for A501" and it doesn't wipe out the recovery image. Is this because the boot-loader is specific to this ROM as it is for 4.0.4? Any ideas?
Wombat
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to root and remove /system/recovery-from-boot.p or it will reflash the recovery at every boot (assuming it's the same as the A500)
---------- Post added at 07:49 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:48 AM ----------
Could anybody tell me if my ICS Root tool works with this leak? I don't have access to an A501 and I have no idea what version of the kernel this is running etc.
Thanks!
blackthund3r : ICS ROOT 5.1 works on this version. I chose to run it for the latest A500 leak and everything went just fine.
Mounting /system works too.
I tried wifi no work. Reflashing again :|
WiFi works for me, if you had a custom ROM you may have forgot to wipe something.
paugustin said:
WiFi works for me, if you had a custom ROM you may have forgot to wipe something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. install stock 3.0.1 rom
2. update to 3.2.1
3. make factory reset
4. go to recovery and flash this
5. wifi power on but no visible all wifi routers....
sometimes there are network. enter the password. all. again does not work.
OK it should work the way you did. One thing you can try is to install CWM, use it to wipe everything (factory, data, dalvik) and install from there. I know it can be done, I tested this.
Hope it will work for you too.
paugustin said:
OK it should work the way you did. One thing you can try is to install CWM, use it to wipe everything (factory, data, dalvik) and install from there. I know it can be done, I tested this.
Hope it will work for you too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried same.
Damn sorry it doesn't work for you
Have you flashed 3.x using nvflash ? it usually does a good job of reseting everything. You can try this one : http://vache-android.com/v1/index.php?site=files&file=99
Got ICS, OTA (download) installed that no problem, downloaded the acer usb drivers and used ICS Root (blackthund3r). Now i want to install LightSpeed 4.4 (i know theres a newer version) I renamed it update.zip and did the power button + V- button but it says invalid image.
Now im a bit confused cause all this android stuff is new to me, I have the acer recovery installed but im not sure what to do with it. Tried renaming it to recovery.img it says it is flashing but nothing happens.
Kinda lost at what to do or how to get this rom working.... if someone could point me in the right direction it would be sweet
Fox
foxorroxors said:
I renamed it update.zip and did the power button + V- button but it says invalid image.
Fox
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. That was pretty n00b of ya (that little trick only works on signed official roms, and even then, only ify-ify)
Check this thread. It has the tools you need.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
You can skip the part about installing an ICS rom and rooting. You already did that. You need to do steps 1, 2, (partial 4) 5 or 6 basically.
Note after you rooted. Look at step 4 and delete the required file like it says, before going to steps 5 or 6. You have an option on which package to use. Personally, I like the exe package. But your choice.
This installs patched b-loader and CWM recovery so you can flash ICS only Roms.
Easy
As you've Acer Recovery why the difficult way ? Just choose "Download / Install Roms, tick Lightspeed 4.4 in the left column, hit download and then install.
(i've version 2.74)
Fast, easy and no problems. I flashed Flexreaper 14 (now replaced by Flexreaper ICS RF1) and i can recommend it, the Rom and the way of flashing it.
urbie47 said:
As you've Acer Recovery why the difficult way ? Just choose "Download / Install Roms, tick Lightspeed 4.4 in the left column, hit download and then install.
(i've version 2.74)
Fast, easy and no problems. I flashed Flexreaper 14 (now replaced by Flexreaper ICS RF1) and i can recommend it, the Rom and the way of flashing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Acer recovery is fine if it'll install the patched Bootloader.
However, it doesn't make a user get his UID number, which is essential in case something happens in the future. Without your UID, you're basically toasted Or you're in for the long haul in figuring out how to unbrick a tab.
help
I need help for boot loader.I tried to put ICS boot loader v3, I didn't success and now I can't put another rom(I have ICS for A500 but I use A501 and it doesn't work 3G modem).How I can put other rom?
Erasing cache before SD update...
SD update cmd recovery
--update_package=SDCARD:update.zip
Booting recovery kernel image
Recovery verified failed...
ores992 said:
I need help for boot loader.I tried to put ICS boot loader v3, I didn't success and now I can't put another rom(I have ICS for A500 but I use A501 and it doesn't work 3G modem).How I can put other rom?
Erasing cache before SD update...
SD update cmd recovery
--update_package=SDCARD:update.zip
Booting recovery kernel image
Recovery verified failed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't run that update.zip like you did. You got the error message.
Can you still boot into the 500 Rom? If so, you need to install a CWM Recovery before you can flash custom Roms. Look at the link below for instructions for CWM installation.
If you can't boot into your System, then you will need to do everything again.
You should still have your UID number when you tried to NVFlash the ver3 bootloader (I hope you wrote that number down)
You need to probably re-install the ver3 bootloader again as your attempt to install an update.zip messed things up. You just can't do it that way. So go here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1622425
Only this time, follow the instructions. You need to install CWM recovery. This is how to flash Roms, not putting update.zips on the SD card. And BTW, you should delete that update.zip from Your EXT SD Card. It will cause problems.
Also note, in those instructions, if you installed the FULL 500 ROM, you must delete a certain boot-p file before you install CWM Recovery. Or else it will delete it when you reboot the tab. Again, read the instructions.
The above steps install a 500 rom. The 500 DOES NOT have 3g like a 501. This is why you had no 3g. You have to install a 501 ICS Rom after, through CWM Recovery, and, currently, I have the only ICS Rom for the 501. And... it's a Beta release from Acer. But it works ok mostly.
Read the instructions, and understand exactly what you are doing. Also remember, with ver3 ICS Bootloader, YOU CANNOT INSTALL HC BASED ROMS without going back to an HC based bootloader. ICS Roms only. (unless you want to go back to stock).
Moscow Desire said:
You can't run that update.zip like you did. You got the error message.
Can you still boot into the 500 Rom? If so, you need to install a CWM Recovery before you can flash custom Roms. Look at the link below for instructions for CWM installation.
If you can't boot into your System, then you will need to do everything again.
You should still have your UID number when you tried to NVFlash the ver3 bootloader (I hope you wrote that number down)
You need to probably re-install the ver3 bootloader again as your attempt to install an update.zip messed things up. You just can't do it that way. So go here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1622425
Only this time, follow the instructions. You need to install CWM recovery. This is how to flash Roms, not putting update.zips on the SD card. And BTW, you should delete that update.zip from Your EXT SD Card. It will cause problems.
Also note, in those instructions, if you installed the FULL 500 ROM, you must delete a certain boot-p file before you install CWM Recovery. Or else it will delete it when you reboot the tab. Again, read the instructions.
The above steps install a 500 rom. The 500 DOES NOT have 3g like a 501. This is why you had no 3g. You have to install a 501 ICS Rom after, through CWM Recovery, and, currently, I have the only ICS Rom for the 501. And... it's a Beta release from Acer. But it works ok mostly.
Read the instructions, and understand exactly what you are doing. Also remember, with ver3 ICS Bootloader, YOU CANNOT INSTALL HC BASED ROMS without going back to an HC based bootloader. ICS Roms only. (unless you want to go back to stock).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but that link is dead
ores992 said:
Thanks, but that link is dead
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, XDA did some cleaning up overnight. Try it now;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
MD
Hello everyone.
I hope you can help me.
I had an A500 bricked spontaneously (I was checking Twitter, the screen frozen, I turned off the tablet and when I turned it on again, it stucked on Acer logo) so I used the guide to recover recovery (this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1751978, because I rooted my tablet but I didn't install recovery).
Everything was ok, I flashed the V7-Thor v1.7.3 but when I tried to install stock ROM of ICS (wipe data and cache), the tablet got "re-bricked" and only enter in APX mode.
Then I reflashed and installed V8-Thor_1.7.3_recovery and I tried to install Acer_AV041_A500_1.054.00_WW_GEN1-DEODEXED-FULLROOT through update.zip (turned on the tablet in recovery --> Install from zip file --> Install zip file from SD card --> update.zip, then it said "Installed" and I rebooted the tablet, but it stuck on "Booting primary kernel image"...
What I'm missing or doing wrong? :/
What should I do to run ICS in my tablet again?
I'm not familiarized with the ROMs, Recoverys or flash... sorry if my question is stupid or something, but before this I never moved anything to my tablet (except for root it).
And sorry too for my bad English.
Mafvtapatio said:
Hello everyone.
I hope you can help me.
I had an A500 bricked spontaneously (I was checking Twitter, the screen frozen, I turned off the tablet and when I turned it on again, it stucked on Acer logo) so I used the guide to recover recovery (this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1751978, because I rooted my tablet but I didn't install recovery).
Everything was ok, I flashed the V7-Thor v1.7.3 but when I tried to install stock ROM of ICS (wipe data and cache), the tablet got "re-bricked" and only enter in APX mode.
Then I reflashed and installed V8-Thor_1.7.3_recovery and I tried to install through update.zip (turned on the tablet in recovery --> Install from zip file --> Install zip file from SD card --> update.zip, then it said "Installed" and I rebooted the tablet, but it stuck on "Booting primary kernel image"...
What I'm missing or doing wrong? :/
What should I do to run ICS in my tablet again?
I'm not familiarized with the ROMs, Recoverys or flash... sorry if my question is stupid or something, but before this I never moved anything to my tablet (except for root it).
And sorry too for my bad English.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think where you went wrong was choosing "install zip file from sdcard >update.zip"
Go back into recovery again > install from zip file > Choose zip from SD card (
if the file is on your micro sd card)
You should see a list of all your files and choose your rom file:
Acer_AV041_A500_1.054.00_WW_GEN1-DEODEXED-FULLROOT.zip
Once its done, Stay in recovery and go to: Wipe Menu and do all the wipes there
Data -cache and dalvi-cache then reboot
Once you're all set up and before you reboot again, make sure there is not an "update.zip" on your sdcard - if you boot to recovery it may flash automatically and you will end up "stuck" again
good luck
dibb
dibb_nz said:
I think where you went wrong was choosing "install zip file from sdcard >update.zip"
Go back into recovery again > install from zip file > Choose zip from SD card (
if the file is on your micro sd card)
You should see a list of all your files and choose your rom file:
Acer_AV041_A500_1.054.00_WW_GEN1-DEODEXED-FULLROOT.zip
Once its done, Stay in recovery and go to: Wipe Menu and do all the wipes there
Data -cache and dalvi-cache then reboot
Once you're all set up and before you reboot again, make sure there is not an "update.zip" on your sdcard - if you boot to recovery it may flash automatically and you will end up "stuck" again
good luck
dibb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! I did it and it worked, but after the reboot the tablet only shows the animated android logo... what's the problem? The ROM?
When I did the "Wipe data" it said "Formatting data" and after "Skipping erase of /data/media". I checked with the "Mount and Storage" menu in recovery and seems like my data before the brick's still in the internal storage of the tablet... is that normal?
EDIT: what version of cwm to have now? If its not 1.7.3 then go ahead and reflash the v8
Mafvtapatio said:
Thanks! I did it and it worked, but after the reboot the tablet only shows the animated android logo... what's the problem? The ROM?
When I did the "Wipe data" it said "Formatting data" and after "Skipping erase of /data/media". I checked with the "Mount and Storage" menu in recovery and seems like my data before the brick's still in the internal storage of the tablet... is that normal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it is - keeps your data intact but 'resets' the rom to like it is when you first flash, there is an option to wipe data/media if you wish to - theres a toggle to enable it but on every boot to recovery it will be disabled again...
You can try another flash of the rom itself otherwise reflash the v8 bootloader.
Do you have access to "fastboot mode" power vol down - just wondering
dibb
dibb_nz said:
EDIT: what version of cwm to have now? If its not 1.7.3 then go ahead and reflash the v8
Yes it is - keeps your data intact but 'resets' the rom to like it is when you first flash, there is an option to wipe data/media if you wish to - theres a toggle to enable it but on every boot to recovery it will be disabled again...
You can try another flash of the rom itself otherwise reflash the v8 bootloader.
Do you have access to "fastboot mode" power vol down - just wondering
dibb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried to reflash the same ROM, but this time nothing happened, again only says "Booting primary kernel image"... a question, if I try to flash a stock ROM (like Acer_A500_1.031.00_WW_GEN1.zip from the post of stock roms)... it will let my tablet again only in APX mode when I turn on it, right?
And I see the option "Fastboot mode" when I turn on the tablet holding Vol +.
About your question I don't know how to answer, I flashed V8-Thor_1.7.3_recovery... is that a CWM?
In the top it says CWM Recovery v5.5.0.x(thor2002ro/digetx rev 1.7.3) Iconia A50x...
Mafvtapatio said:
a question, if I try to flash a stock ROM (like Acer_A500_1.031.00_WW_GEN1.zip from the post of stock roms)... it will let my tablet again only in APX mode when I turn on it, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry, not sure I understand your question...are you saying you're now stuck in apx mode - black screen power light on?
There are 2 types of stock rom on here....
1) Official Acer EUU or OTA roms
2) Official Stock roms which are Custom - pre-rooted and able to flash CWM etc -
If you flash one of the Acer EUU or OTA roms you will lose CWM and Root
To be honest - with your tab "spontaneously" booting and being stuck on the acer logo and the issues that have followed - its sounding more and more like a faulty chip - this is something that only acer can fix...I could be wrong about this and I hope I am...but something is just not feeling right...
- you still have cwm and access to fastboot - thats a bonus - maybe do a complete format thru CWM of data/media, system (and flexrom if its there) then try to flash a rom again - if it still won't flash AND if you're not stuck in apx mode then I think you'd be best to download an official update.zip - from Blackthund3rs thread here this one -
Acer_AV041_1.054.00_WW_GEN1:
Once you've d/l'ed it...try opening it if you can't then it will need decrypting the instructions for this are in the OP..
Once you have extracted the "update.zip" and have it on your sdcard - flash via CWM
good luck
dibb
dibb_nz said:
EDIT: what version of cwm to have now? If its not 1.7.3 then go ahead and reflash the v8
Yes it is - keeps your data intact but 'resets' the rom to like it is when you first flash, there is an option to wipe data/media if you wish to - theres a toggle to enable it but on every boot to recovery it will be disabled again...
You can try another flash of the rom itself otherwise reflash the v8 bootloader.
Do you have access to "fastboot mode" power vol down - just wondering
dibb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean "If if its not 1.7.3"? Are there problems with flashing the bootloader with 1.7.3?
no, no, not at all, i meant if he didnt have that version to reflash v8 to get it
oops clicked wrong button
he said he flashed stock rom and ended up with dead android = stock recovery
A500 V8 booting primary kernel image
dibb_nz said:
no, no, not at all, i meant if he didnt have that version to reflash v8 to get it
oops clicked wrong button
he said he flashed stock rom and ended up with dead android = stock recovery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello everyone!
I have a similar issue whith my a500. but i can restore the backup i did of my honeycomb sistem in cwm (i have acess)
aftter making the backup i have flashed V8-Thor_1.7.3_recovery.a500apx in apxflashtool in order to get ics boot loader and install ICS roms.
so far so good after the flash i had already a ICS rom in my sd card redy to flash so imediatly after V8 flash entered cwm and did clean format and wipe all. Next installed the rom (aroma instalation) no problems what so ever. After instalation is finished reboted and now im stuck on skilax v8 bootloader boting primary kernel image
i tried the folowing
- chage kernel multiboot fix partitions redo clean format etc etc etc (ALL THE STEPS)
-many other ics jellybean rooms (all of the install but dont boot)
- honey comb rooms install and BOOT normaly.
at this point thought maybe it was a bad V8 flash and decided to reflash the V8-Thor_1.7.3_recovery.a500apx
Now the flash tool can get pass uploading image phase.
i have correct sbk and cpuuid since i had to recover last week from boot verified failed error and use the flash tool whith correct sbk to recover the tablet with sucess.
So basicly im stuck wit
h my honeycomb rom backup or other HC roms
any news on this subject?
cybersaicho said:
Hello everyone!
I have a similar issue whith my a500. but i can restore the backup i did of my honeycomb sistem in cwm (i have acess)
aftter making the backup i have flashed V8-Thor_1.7.3_recovery.a500apx in apxflashtool in order to get ics boot loader and install ICS roms.
so far so good after the flash i had already a ICS rom in my sd card redy to flash so imediatly after V8 flash entered cwm and did clean format and wipe all. Next installed the rom (aroma instalation) no problems what so ever. After instalation is finished reboted and now im stuck on skilax v8 bootloader boting primary kernel image
i tried the folowing
- chage kernel multiboot fix partitions redo clean format etc etc etc (ALL THE STEPS)
-many other ics jellybean rooms (all of the install but dont boot)
- honey comb rooms install and BOOT normaly.
at this point thought maybe it was a bad V8 flash and decided to reflash the V8-Thor_1.7.3_recovery.a500apx
Now the flash tool can get pass uploading image phase.
i have correct sbk and cpuuid since i had to recover last week from boot verified failed error and use the flash tool whith correct sbk to recover the tablet with sucess.
So basicly im stuck wit
h my honeycomb rom backup or other HC roms
any news on this subject?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes just one question what is - " chage kernel multiboot "???? Sounds dodgy
You can boot to fastboot mode then do an erase of data and cache, see if that helps for a start....
Do you stil have recovery and can you still restore your HC backup?
I have seen a post or two where tabs can only boot HC Roms and no ICS
It "maybe" the dreaded hardware fault - you might be best to d/l the babsector.rar and run that - it will give you a proper error if theres something wrong - can get it from the root guide in my sig. Give me a minute or two and I'll post some steps in using it
---------- Post added at 09:12 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:53 AM ----------
How to use babsector.rar
Download and extract the babsector.rar to a folder on your PC
Turn your tab off and put it in apx mode manually. Press and hold reset button, hold power for 3 secs after the light comes on and release it, after another second release the reset button. Your screen is black and the power light is on.
Connect your tab to your PC
Navigate to the babsector folder and click on 501 A.bat, when its done
Reboot into recovery
Go to Mounts and Storage and Format System twice and Power Off
Go back into apx mode and run 501 B.bat
Reboot into recovery and do the wipes and flash your rom
Reboot
Hi all technical gurus and experts
I have the standard u8800 X5 and have managed to recover it after two weeks after bricking it quite properly. The question I have is that I am unable to get the official GB update to install correctly over the stock Froyo Rom.
I had the phone running on the official GB for a number of years unmodified without problems until I rooted the phone for the first time.
In an attempt to fix it I managed to remove the OS completely (I know I know). I have finally managed to recover the phone by flashing the stock 2.2.2 B138 rom. Next I attempted to upgrade to to the official 2.3.5 B526 I downloaded from the huawei site. Every time after it installed it boot looped. Pull the battery out and put back then I do a factory reset from the recovery and the phone would work. At next restart it would have multiple error messages about processes unable to start and would reboot back into the boot loop.
Back to square one and re flash the froyo.
Eventually I flashed oxygen 2.3.7 over the froyo, which is stable.
I have root access and CWM 5.0.2.6 installed.
Please help as I would like to install a newer Rom like Aurora ICS or CM10, what do I need to do to get it right?
Thanks in advance.
Bump for @Blefish
Its difficult to understand why this is happening. However, if you installed 2.3, your baseband is updated and theoretically you should be able to switch the ROM, even though the stock ROM is crashing. Huawei ROM is loading some of the items from the "cust" partition, it might happen this does not have the necessary items but I doubt it.
Thanks for answering. You are the foremost expert on the u8800 that I know of.
Blefish said:
Its difficult to understand why this is happening. However, if you installed 2.3, your baseband is updated and theoretically you should be able to switch the ROM, even though the stock ROM is crashing. Huawei ROM is loading some of the items from the "cust" partition, it might happen this does not have the necessary items but I doubt it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you mean amms.mbn it is not the thing which controls switching between roms.
OP should check partitions, I think all the problems are from them (and from appsboot.mbn too ).
Last time I bricked my phone, it refuses to install any roms (I was on B919 and was not able to install B919 :silly: ) except B939.
I have checked logs, located in /sdcard/dload, and found some "partition error", or "installing new partitions", etc.)
PS: Solved.
Cust partition is not a problem, I remember I cleaned it from my U8860 and everything was ok.
OP, try to install different mods and if nothing helps, ask someone to send you a dump.
What you said about the updated baseband gives me an idea. If I can install CWM 6 with es file manager, after updating to the GB. I can use your partioning tool and then install Aurora or CM10. Do you think that could work?
missioner said:
What you said about the updated baseband gives me an idea. If I can install CWM 6 with es file manager, after updating to the GB. I can use your partioning tool and then install Aurora or CM10. Do you think that could work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am quite sure it could work. But I would suggest installing B518 or at least install pink screen unlock before you do repartitioning.
Thanks I will keep that in mind.
I will install ES explorer tomorrow and see about an updating the recovery
I checked the size of the internal sd card as Jeka suggested and total size is 1.4Gb. I remember that the internal SD card should be 2Gb if the partition is stock. I did run the Blefish recovery repartitioning zip before I so wonderfully bricked the phone, it is most likely the partition size that is causing the error.
I have the 3 partition zips downloaded including the stock partition one, so I will give it a go this weekend if my son agrees. It is his phone and he appears to be enjoying the oxygen rom currently installed. Ultimately I want an ICS rom installed though.
After much time I have solved the problem.
The phone has been running for some time on oxygen 2.3.7 GB, but sadly started having problems again. This time due to the dodgy games my son had installed on to the phone.
I flashed the official GB to update the baseband and then realised I had made a small mistake as I had also unrooted the phone and replaced the cwm recovery with a stock one.
Some hasty searching later and installing ES FILE MANAGER I managed to find and install a rooted recovery. I did this as my other root methods were unsuccessful.
This allowed for me to install the Team Win U8800 recovery. As per the previous post the phones partitions had not been restored to stock, so I installed the Aurora ICS Lite Rom.
Very happy with the results and I have to say that the TWRP recovery is top notch.