Related
First off let me say thanks to the many members that posted pieces of this fix for various Samsung phones.
The sole purpose of this post is to condense the info I found spread out across multiple threads when trying to resolve this issue myself. Hopefully making it easier for future users that may have the same problem I did. Which is why I have the various sensor names in the subject.
If your phone is having problems auto-rotating, or does not rotate at all in any app (like mine did). These steps should get you working again. This will be overkill in some cases but I like to cover all my bases when something is not working to begin with.
Note: This assumes you are running Android 2.2 (if you are not, you will not be able to perform the last step, but your phone should still work properly without it). Your phone will need to be rooted with busybox and you will need a terminal emulator app installed. I have attached the "Android Terminal Emulator" apk just in case you don't have or know what that is.
open your terminal type su press enter
type cd /data/system press enter
type rm ms3c_yamaha.cfg press enter
type cd /system/bin press enter
type ./sensorcalibutil_yamaha press enter
secure your phone on a flat level surface and gently press the enter key on your keyboard
type exit press enter
type exit press enter
Close your terminal and go to menu -> Display -> Horizantal calibration
turn your phone upside down with the bottom edge over hanging the table you used as a flat surface so that you can just barely see the calibration button when you are looking under the phone. Gently press the calibration button.
All done, you should be in working order!
Nice post! But the Epic does not require all of these steps that other phones might.(assuming your using Terminal Emulator)
Once within terminal, type
"su"
then you only need to type
"sensorcalibutil_yamaha" and press enter. Then follow the steps on the screen.
As far as hanging the bottom edge over the table goes, it's not necessary. The Epic is level on both ends because the camera protrudes at the other.
A couple of weeks ago, i had the problem where sensorcalibutil... in terminal emulator (and adb etc) was failing when trying to execute. Deleting the file above did fix this. So, maybe update the op to only try that if it fails. Thx for putting this together juise
Sent from my SPH-D700 using Tapatalk
decalex said:
A couple of weeks ago, i had the problem where sensorcalibutil... in terminal emulator (and adb etc) was failing when trying to execute. Deleting the file above did fix this. So, maybe update the op to only try that if it fails. Thx for putting this together juise
Sent from my SPH-D700 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. I've never run into that issue myself, and I'm not sure what would cause it, but deleting that file would fix it.
Auto rotation.
Thanks for posting this. I was having this problem on my phone and now it's fixed!
Ahhh! This has finally fixed my auto-rotation issues! My phone has been unable to auto-rotate for months and now it works again. Thanks much!
mattallica76 said:
Nice post! But the Epic does not require all of these steps that other phones might.(assuming your using Terminal Emulator)
Once within terminal, type
"su"
then you only need to type
"sensorcalibutil_yamaha" and press enter. Then follow the steps on the screen.
As far as hanging the bottom edge over the table goes, it's not necessary. The Epic is level on both ends because the camera protrudes at the other.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually I needed to delete the cfg file with my Epic, so the need is there depending on the problem. This why I say in some cases this may be overkill, but it if you follow the instructions as posted no harm can come of completing all the steps I chose to list. As long as you don't have faulty hardware you should be back in business after completing them.
If my years with BSD/Linux have taught me anything, it's assume nothing! If you know *nix you'll notice that my commands assume nothing about the user environment. To me that is the safest way to provide instructions like these to users that may not be familiar with the OS.
Thank you for this consolidation... for noobies like me, searching all the forums can be a lil intimidating... this may be "overkill" like you said, but it sped up my auto-rotate like nobody's business. You get TWO thumbs up...
juise said:
Actually I needed to delete the cfg file with my Epic, so the need is there depending on the problem. This why I say in some cases this may be overkill, but it if you follow the instructions as posted no harm can come of completing all the steps I chose to list. As long as you don't have faulty hardware you should be back in business after completing them.
If my years with BSD/Linux have taught me anything, it's assume nothing! If you know *nix you'll notice that my commands assume nothing about the user environment. To me that is the safest way to provide instructions like these to users that may not be familiar with the OS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good philosophy. I'm just currious as to why that file would get corrupted in the first place. Unless folks are trying to restore data from a froyo Rom onto an eclair rom, this should not be happening. The file resides on the data partition which would have been wiped durring the install process, assuming it was done correctly. Ha, there I go assuming again.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using Tapatalk
meh i guess it works. didnt really do anything though.
I have spent about 6 hours crawling through here looking for help, and found a few bits that were helpful, but nothing that solved my problem.
My Fire is just slow as hell and I can't stand it. The list of "problems" is way too long. I want to put CM7 on it so I can have a useful tablet rather than the POS that this thing is in stock form.
I would love a step by step guide for people (Me) who have zero computer skills. I managed to root my HTC EVO, which wasn't too hard, but the Fire is escaping me. I have done everything I have read I needed to do to root this but I can't figure out what is going on.
I have downloaded the Android SDK tools, and successfully put in whatever the alphabet soup is that you all refer to (ADB). I don't even know what ADB means, but I got the SDK manager and all the tools installed.
I downloaded the Kindle Fire Utility 0.9.1 and told my Fire to accept outside apps.
I followed the destructions and tried to install permanent root with superuser according to the Fire Utility, but it keeps saying ABD Status: Online ABD Rooted: NO.
I found a link to something that would check to see if it was actually rooted, but the app does not open in the Fire and does nothing on my computer.
When I tell the Utility to install permanent root with superuser I get this message repeatedly: "They system cannot find the path specified." I get that whenever I try to use the utility to do anything at all, yet it keeps telling me that whatever was installed successfully.
It says I have superuser access (in the utility) yet there is nothing different in the Fire. I can't use Titanium backup, I can't do anything "new" that I couldn't do before.
My Fire experience is pretty poor so far. Google searches are horrible, I try to type in a word and before I get to the second letter it brings up the most common Google search that was run using the first letter... and fills in the rest. I have to delete it all and start again. Often times I try to edit an email and it won't let me click anywhere I want. I try to open a link to a website and half the time it doesn't work. I can't go "Back" until I click the button 4-5 times. It is just stupid. This "tablet" is nothing more than a paperweight and I am pretty honked that Amazon screwed the pooch on this. Top it off with a SUPER slow internet browser that was touted as the greatest thing ever...
Anyway, sorry for the rant, I am just frustrated at this $200 piece of plastic crap. I need help (With the tablet, not mental help).
Where do I begin? Please understand that acronyms mean nothing to me since I am new at this... I need step by step directions for a beginner! I need to get from Kindle Fire POS operating system to CM7 or something like what every other Android runs so I can actually enjoy my tablet rather than get pissed off at it!
DavidV95 said:
I have spent about 6 hours crawling through here looking for help, and found a few bits that were helpful, but nothing that solved my problem.
My Fire is just slow as hell and I can't stand it. The list of "problems" is way too long. I want to put CM7 on it so I can have a useful tablet rather than the POS that this thing is in stock form.
I would love a step by step guide for people (Me) who have zero computer skills. I managed to root my HTC EVO, which wasn't too hard, but the Fire is escaping me. I have done everything I have read I needed to do to root this but I can't figure out what is going on.
I have downloaded the Android SDK tools, and successfully put in whatever the alphabet soup is that you all refer to (ADB). I don't even know what ADB means, but I got the SDK manager and all the tools installed.
I downloaded the Kindle Fire Utility 0.9.1 and told my Fire to accept outside apps.
I followed the destructions and tried to install permanent root with superuser according to the Fire Utility, but it keeps saying ABD Status: Online ABD Rooted: NO.
I found a link to something that would check to see if it was actually rooted, but the app does not open in the Fire and does nothing on my computer.
When I tell the Utility to install permanent root with superuser I get this message repeatedly: "They system cannot find the path specified." I get that whenever I try to use the utility to do anything at all, yet it keeps telling me that whatever was installed successfully.
It says I have superuser access (in the utility) yet there is nothing different in the Fire. I can't use Titanium backup, I can't do anything "new" that I couldn't do before.
My Fire experience is pretty poor so far. Google searches are horrible, I try to type in a word and before I get to the second letter it brings up the most common Google search that was run using the first letter... and fills in the rest. I have to delete it all and start again. Often times I try to edit an email and it won't let me click anywhere I want. I try to open a link to a website and half the time it doesn't work. I can't go "Back" until I click the button 4-5 times. It is just stupid. This "tablet" is nothing more than a paperweight and I am pretty honked that Amazon screwed the pooch on this. Top it off with a SUPER slow internet browser that was touted as the greatest thing ever...
Anyway, sorry for the rant, I am just frustrated at this $200 piece of plastic crap. I need help (With the tablet, not mental help).
Where do I begin? Please understand that acronyms mean nothing to me since I am new at this... I need step by step directions for a beginner! I need to get from Kindle Fire POS operating system to CM7 or something like what every other Android runs so I can actually enjoy my tablet rather than get pissed off at it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here you go this is my step by step video and trouble shooting guide to help a non experienced end-user such as yourself pull this off without a hitch... It is confirmed working and very easy to follow... If it helped please remember to hit the thanks button in that threas so that it might have the chance to get stickied for others to find easily...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1417234
http://www.unlockroot.com/guide.htm
Device list is here
http://www.unlockroot.com/unlockroot.php
HTC HTC Desire Z 2.3.7
have anyone tryied it yet?
Using this for rooting looks like a longshot to me...
Rooting through ADB is much much much safer.
Avira has detected 2 virus. i deleted it
moshafidi said:
Avira has detected 2 virus. i deleted it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Microsoft Security Essentials detected stuff too, seems like I'll brick my phone with this. So I think I'll just stick with gfree
wanted to try, but kaspersky also say "virus alarm"
Guys, you do realize that rooting exploits are technically viruses, right?
Superoneclick comes up as a virus on my home computer, yet everyone except HTC phone owners use it to gain root.
sino8r said:
Guys, you do realize that rooting exploits are technically viruses, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would rooting exploits on Linux/Android come up as viruses on Windows?
redpoint73 said:
Would rooting exploits on Linux/Android come up as viruses on Windows?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This tool is downloaded to your computer, then you execute it and it's supposed root your android automatically. Yes, they do show up as viruses sometimes.
The question, is it legit? I have my doubts.
the4biddendonut said:
Superoneclick comes up as a virus on my home computer, yet everyone except HTC phone owners use it to gain root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did a bit of Googling around, just to find out more about why Superoneclick comes up as containing a virus sometimes.
The following gives some theories on why this happens.
http://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/fwm9b/superoneclick_severe_virus_alert_in_windows/
So to answer my own question, it seems that the anti-virus programs may indeed be screening for exploits that don't actually affect Windows, but Linux. Whether this is the case with Unlock Root, or its actually spreading a Windows virus, who knows?
These are all very valid points, yes as with any rooting process, you could end up with a nice shiny brick but then again, "He who dares, Wins!"
However i am a at this having just about rooted my old milestone on the 8th attempt so i think i may leave this to someone else a little than me to try 1st!
No good
You know, there are ZERO decent guides, even I'm afraid to say, here on xda on how to successfully, easily and preferrably with a single click, root a Desire Z - and I've been desperate to do mine for a long time. The problem is a lot of the guides have dead links, hard to follow or half missing instructions.
Anyway.
This looked like deep joy, so I just installed it, ran it, changed to USB debug mode, hit "root" against my device and the upshot was that it looked like it went through the process, did a reboot, then still no root (checked with a root checker app and with Avast, trying to access Firewall mode which needs root).
I'm gutted, I thought I could finally make root happen without WAY too complex instructions.
Desire Z, GSM, 2.3.3 unbranded here if that helps anyone out.
adamchap said:
You know, there are ZERO decent guides, even I'm afraid to say, here on xda on how to successfully, easily and preferrably with a single click, root a Desire Z - and I've been desperate to do mine for a long time. The problem is a lot of the guides have dead links, hard to follow or half missing instructions.
Anyway.
This looked like deep joy, so I just installed it, ran it, changed to USB debug mode, hit "root" against my device and the upshot was that it looked like it went through the process, did a reboot, then still no root (checked with a root checker app and with Avast, trying to access Firewall mode which needs root).
I'm gutted, I thought I could finally make root happen without WAY too complex instructions.
Desire Z, GSM, 2.3.3 unbranded here if that helps anyone out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found it pretty easy following the main wiki. You need adb but it's easy if you do a little reading.
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda premium
adamchap said:
You know, there are ZERO decent guides, even I'm afraid to say, here on xda on how to successfully, easily and preferrably with a single click, root a Desire Z - and I've been desperate to do mine for a long time. The problem is a lot of the guides have dead links, hard to follow or half missing instructions.
Anyway.
This looked like deep joy, so I just installed it, ran it, changed to USB debug mode, hit "root" against my device and the upshot was that it looked like it went through the process, did a reboot, then still no root (checked with a root checker app and with Avast, trying to access Firewall mode which needs root).
I'm gutted, I thought I could finally make root happen without WAY too complex instructions.
Desire Z, GSM, 2.3.3 unbranded here if that helps anyone out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was really hard for me at first learning adb, but now it's pretty easy. I'm no expert, but I can follow directions. PM me if you need any help.
The main things that would concern me about this is that it took so long to be released, it's being told to us by some new person who's barely posted anything before, and even more concerning he never came to check back/talk about it :S
I just rooted a friend's EVO Shift which is really similar to the G2. It was a pain but if you follow the steps to the "t" you should be okay. The reason I meantioned it was because I rooted my G2 when it had stock Froyo on it and was easy as cake The problem which makes it difficult is downgrading to Froyo. Once you get past that part... its as easy as using Visionary apk and clicking a button. Its pretty safe inspite of what people think. I'm all for the one click root apps but it's better (and maybe required) to downgrade to Froyo first.
The REAL problem people have is learning adb. It's easy for us veterans but does seem difficult for most people and the command prompt can be intimidating. the only thing I can suggest is put the adb in a folder that you can remember and just copying and pasting commands. just make sure the spaces in the lines are right and its pretty safe.
About this root tool, yeah, I'd say its much safer to use a reputable method than something new.
and with the virus scanners basically calling all root related stuff viruses... there's no way to check for sure if its safe or not. That's why its probably best to go on reputation. The root exploits are what they say they are: an exploit like some viruses in that category. I recommend Avira virus app for windows because it will actually show you the particular virus in their library/database and it's definition and its use. Very handy app along with AVG. Well... good luck to all!
adamchap said:
You know, there are ZERO decent guides, even I'm afraid to say, here on xda on how to successfully, easily and preferrably with a single click, root a Desire Z - and I've been desperate to do mine for a long time. The problem is a lot of the guides have dead links, hard to follow or half missing instructions.
Anyway.
This looked like deep joy, so I just installed it, ran it, changed to USB debug mode, hit "root" against my device and the upshot was that it looked like it went through the process, did a reboot, then still no root (checked with a root checker app and with Avast, trying to access Firewall mode which needs root).
I'm gutted, I thought I could finally make root happen without WAY too complex instructions.
Desire Z, GSM, 2.3.3 unbranded here if that helps anyone out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wiki guide is the only one you need: http://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/index.php?title=HTC_Vision#Rooting_the_Vision_.28G2.2FDZ.29_and_DHD
But it really doesn't sound like you want a guide, you want a one-click solution. This seems to be an increasing trend, as more of the masses get interested in rooting, but don't want to put forth any effort.
It would seem to me that having root, without an understanding of some of the basic terms, concepts, and tools, is a dangerous place to be. Modding your phone without some basic knowledge can get you in a real mess, without the tools to get you out of it.
Do yourself a favor, just start reading. Understand the guide, roll up your sleeves and do it. Its really not that hard. But it will take some time, as many of the terms, tools, procedures will be new to you. But you'll be better for it in the long run. HTC has a tendency to protect their devices from one-click root apps. So if you like HTC devices, you may as well get used to the fact that rooted is a process, and not one click. Plus, with any ROM flashing or other modding, things like ADB are good to know and be able to use, in case things go awry.
Anything in the guide that you don't understand can usually be answered by just using the XDA search function, or Googling around the net. If you make a halfway legit attempt to research the question yourself, and still don't get it, come back to the forums and ask, and somebody will help you.
Agree with Redpoint73.
A tool that does system manipulation on a remote platform isn't a virus on the platform it's run, so programs that manipulate your windows host file perform actions similar to what some viruses do. Open an ADB and push a few commands is NOT that so if your system warns, take that seriously! Even if I would love to have a SuperOneClick give me root on my HTZ Desire Z (work phone so I really shouldn't mess with it) I am NOT interested in touching something like this. Why would someone register a domain and make an entire homepage, rather than posting the code here, unless it was fishy?
I would be ready to bet that these guys can monitize on this in one way or another, so it *might* work as a root but rest assure that either the PC or the phone is contaminated when it's done.
The point of one-click rooting is just to get to the features I want that I've been locked out from... using a firewall app, using a backup app, maybe a quick flash of a ROM without operator bloatware in it - a couple of other features like that. I'm sure the majority of users such as me don't feel we should NEED to learn command sets and technical stuff that we don't need to, nor have the time in our lives to learn.
It's all about features and user experience for me - and I can't get to those features without root. I don't want to do anything complex, arcane or put nightlies on, but simply have a lighter ROM with a couple of more features, and that doesn't need anything more than a button marked "Root".
Cheers for all the input on this everyone.
MOSCOW DESIRE IS THE HERO OF ALL MANKIND!
Or at least my hero for helping me to salvage my bricked A500. Here's my story and the fix he gave me. I am a total NOOBIE, so I'll give it to you in noobie terms.
Background
Wanted to try a tablet for the first time and not invest a lot of money in case I hated it. So, I went to Craigslist and bought a used Acer Icononia A500 for $100 U.S. It worked great for about 90 days and I fell in love with it. Then, one day.... ACER LOGO only! It would only boot to the Acer Logo.
I tried to hard reset pin hole, I tried the Power Volume+ slide the orientation switch to reset - and I got NOTHING!
So, I went on Google - asked the question and ended up on this forum. (Which is probably HOW you ended up here also!)
Getting some help
When I first started reading about the fixes - I got all kinds of techno-babble. Words like "ECCUID" and others that I had no clue what they were talking about. So, I was totally confused and just asked in desperation "Can't I just pay someone to fix this thing?" That's when Moscow Desire came to my rescue.
He basically told me to "chill out" (very politely) and talked be through the two major possibilities - which I am describing in NOOBIE language with no promises that this really what he said - but it sounded like : A) Software glitch, causing motherboard to not fully launch the operating software or B) motherboard hard failure.
In the event, it was just software - he gave me the following "fix" to try. SO HERE IT IS!
The Fix!!
Here is what Moscow told me to ....
"For starters, lets do some simple stuff first. Following is a link to some ICS update files. There are 4 of them. I have already de-crypted them. Now, download each to a individual folder on your PC. You will see they are numbered. This is to keep them separate so you know which is which.
Now, choose one of them (really doesn't matter which one, but maybe start with the highest number first). Rename it to "update.zip" (make sure it is not "update.zip.zip" as this is a common mistake. If your PC doesn't show the .zip extension, just rename it to update)
Now, copy it to your external SD card. Power on your tablet holding Vol+ (or minus) and PWR. Continue pressing until you see text about installing the update in the upper left corner, then release. We'll see if it installs all the way. If after 15 minutes it doesn't (it may stop at about 25%), then PWR off, and rename and copy the next update file, and try that one. Might have to try all 4, so make sure your tab is fully charged.
If none of these install all the way, then life becomes a little more difficult......
Links to my server (large files 300+mb) (Note: these were live links - but because I don't have enough posts to post links, I replaced the "http" with SWV. You'll need to replace the SWV with http)
http://d-h.st/Zf8
http://d-h.st/2cm
http://d-h.st/gw8
http://d-h.st/KXI
Try that."
BUT WAIT - LET ME FILL YOU IN ON WHAT I DID - THAT MADE IT WORK FOR ME!
Do it this way!
1. When you go to the download sites - watch out - there are some "paid" spam downloaders there that want you to install a bunch of crap! Look for the plain, gray colored, download button. Don't click on any of the green or colored ones or you are screwed!
2. Once you do the downloads - you can expect to probably have to try each one - I did and it was the third one down (in the Windows File Explorer naming sequence). I can't tell you the name of which one, because I had to rename them as directed. I should have made a screen shot, but I didn't think of it.
3. RENAME THEM ON YOUR COMPUTER FIRST. This is what caused me so much initial trouble as I couldn't get the files to copy over to the SD card correctly. Now, you'll have to rename one, and if it doesn't work in a few moments, you'll have to rename it back to something else, and then try another one.
4. Format your SD card each time. I didn't want to risk having some residual files on my SD card - so I re-formatted it "quick format" each time BEFORE I copied the file over.
5. Copy the renamed file to your SD card and insert it in the A500 SD card slot.
6. Hold down the power button and the volume rocker (left or right side) - until you see wording start to appear on the top left side of the screen. Let go then and watch and see what happens.
7. The words told me it was erasing all data. Then it told me it was going to load the recovery icon.
8. It then loaded the green android robot! Note: Twice before it got to the robot and then the robot was on its side, layng down with an "i" icon on its belly. In other words, that recovery did NOT work. So, I started the process all over.
9. When it works - you will know it! The robot stays up and you can see a progress bar going across the bottom! Mine did not hang up, once it started to reload. Moscow did say it COULD hang up. So, read his instructions above.
AND THAT IS IT!
My tablet appears to be working fine now - I'll go start playing with it and downloading apps - but I think I am there!
Also, I am going to donate to Moscow Desire - because I would have PAID for this fix. You should do the same if it fixes yours.
My name is Steve Vance and I am thrilled to have been able to do this WITHOUT a ton of knowledge. The toughest thing you'll have to do is the "renaming" thing.
I hope it fixes your bricked A500 the way it fixed mine.
GOOD LUCK ALL AND THANKS MOSCOW DESIRE!
rainbow4 said:
GOOD LUCK ALL AND THANKS MOSCOW DESIRE!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are most certainly welcome and big Thanks! Am glad it worked. Sometimes the easy way works, before pulling out the "big guns"
Now, last but not least. Get your CUID number and write it down in a safe place. You can find procedures (pretty simple) in the "Sticky Thread" in the Dev section near the top. You might need it one day.....
MD
Moscow Desire said:
You are most certainly welcome and big Thanks! Am glad it worked. Sometimes the easy way works, before pulling out the "big guns"
Now, last but not least. Get your CUID number and write it down in a safe place. You can find procedures (pretty simple) in the "Sticky Thread" in the Dev section near the top. You might need it one day.....
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, the last file of the four does not seem to be available anymore, is there another link to it?
Thanks in advance, I will be trying this as soon as I can get that fourth file.
Sylgrant said:
Hi, the last file of the four does not seem to be available anymore, is there another link to it?
Thanks in advance, I will be trying this as soon as I can get that fourth file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Something up with Dev Host as downloads fine for me
Try this;
41-124-01-update.zip - 412.86 MB
Moscow is the best!!!
Thank you thank you thank you Moscow. I can not believe this but my tablet works. I gave up a couple months ago after trying everything under the sun (obviously not quite). But every direction I read meant I needed working drivers and I tried everything and so many different computers trying to get a driver to work. I gave up before I snapped it in half from pure frustration. That was a few months ago. Today I read this post and I also thank the original poster for posting these easy directions. Everyone who is struggling with the same thing I was needs to try this first, not last.
I am quite skint at the moment but when my cheque comes I will try to set aside a bit for you. I was willing to pay someone too, but no one could fix it, so I didn't have to pay anything. Thank you so very much.
Sylgrant said:
Thank you thank you thank you Moscow. I can not believe this but my tablet works. I gave up a couple months ago after trying everything under the sun (obviously not quite). But every direction I read meant I needed working drivers and I tried everything and so many different computers trying to get a driver to work. I gave up before I snapped it in half from pure frustration. That was a few months ago. Today I read this post and I also thank the original poster for posting these easy directions. Everyone who is struggling with the same thing I was needs to try this first, not last.
I am quite skint at the moment but when my cheque comes I will try to set aside a bit for you. I was willing to pay someone too, but no one could fix it, so I didn't have to pay anything. Thank you so very much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No Problem
Sometimes things can be easy, other times not. In this case it was the easy way.
Now.,.. get your UID number and write it down in a safe place. Next time might not be so lucky
Just wanted to bump this thread as I am still grateful to Moscow Desire
rainbow4 said:
MOSCOW DESIRE IS THE HERO OF ALL MANKIND!
Or at least my hero for helping me to salvage my bricked A500. Here's my story and the fix he gave me. I am a total NOOBIE, so I'll give it to you in noobie terms.
Background
Wanted to try a tablet for the first time and not invest a lot of money in case I hated it. So, I went to Craigslist and bought a used Acer Icononia A500 for $100 U.S. It worked great for about 90 days and I fell in love with it. Then, one day.... ACER LOGO only! It would only boot to the Acer Logo.
I tried to hard reset pin hole, I tried the Power Volume+ slide the orientation switch to reset - and I got NOTHING!
So, I went on Google - asked the question and ended up on this forum. (Which is probably HOW you ended up here also!)
Getting some help
When I first started reading about the fixes - I got all kinds of techno-babble. Words like "ECCUID" and others that I had no clue what they were talking about. So, I was totally confused and just asked in desperation "Can't I just pay someone to fix this thing?" That's when Moscow Desire came to my rescue.
He basically told me to "chill out" (very politely) and talked be through the two major possibilities - which I am describing in NOOBIE language with no promises that this really what he said - but it sounded like : A) Software glitch, causing motherboard to not fully launch the operating software or B) motherboard hard failure.
In the event, it was just software - he gave me the following "fix" to try. SO HERE IT IS!
The Fix!!
Here is what Moscow told me to ....
"For starters, lets do some simple stuff first. Following is a link to some ICS update files. There are 4 of them. I have already de-crypted them. Now, download each to a individual folder on your PC. You will see they are numbered. This is to keep them separate so you know which is which.
Now, choose one of them (really doesn't matter which one, but maybe start with the highest number first). Rename it to "update.zip" (make sure it is not "update.zip.zip" as this is a common mistake. If your PC doesn't show the .zip extension, just rename it to update)
Now, copy it to your external SD card. Power on your tablet holding Vol+ (or minus) and PWR. Continue pressing until you see text about installing the update in the upper left corner, then release. We'll see if it installs all the way. If after 15 minutes it doesn't (it may stop at about 25%), then PWR off, and rename and copy the next update file, and try that one. Might have to try all 4, so make sure your tab is fully charged.
If none of these install all the way, then life becomes a little more difficult......
Links to my server (large files 300+mb) (Note: these were live links - but because I don't have enough posts to post links, I replaced the "http" with SWV. You'll need to replace the SWV with http)
SWV://d-h.st/Zf8
SWV://d-h.st/2cm
SWV://d-h.st/gw8
SWV://d-h.st/KXI
Try that."
BUT WAIT - LET ME FILL YOU IN ON WHAT I DID - THAT MADE IT WORK FOR ME!
Do it this way!
1. When you go to the download sites - watch out - there are some "paid" spam downloaders there that want you to install a bunch of crap! Look for the plain, gray colored, download button. Don't click on any of the green or colored ones or you are screwed!
2. Once you do the downloads - you can expect to probably have to try each one - I did and it was the third one down (in the Windows File Explorer naming sequence). I can't tell you the name of which one, because I had to rename them as directed. I should have made a screen shot, but I didn't think of it.
3. RENAME THEM ON YOUR COMPUTER FIRST. This is what caused me so much initial trouble as I couldn't get the files to copy over to the SD card correctly. Now, you'll have to rename one, and if it doesn't work in a few moments, you'll have to rename it back to something else, and then try another one.
4. Format your SD card each time. I didn't want to risk having some residual files on my SD card - so I re-formatted it "quick format" each time BEFORE I copied the file over.
5. Copy the renamed file to your SD card and insert it in the A500 SD card slot.
6. Hold down the power button and the volume rocker (left or right side) - until you see wording start to appear on the top left side of the screen. Let go then and watch and see what happens.
7. The words told me it was erasing all data. Then it told me it was going to load the recovery icon.
8. It then loaded the green android robot! Note: Twice before it got to the robot and then the robot was on its side, layng down with an "i" icon on its belly. In other words, that recovery did NOT work. So, I started the process all over.
9. When it works - you will know it! The robot stays up and you can see a progress bar going across the bottom! Mine did not hang up, once it started to reload. Moscow did say it COULD hang up. So, read his instructions above.
AND THAT IS IT!
My tablet appears to be working fine now - I'll go start playing with it and downloading apps - but I think I am there!
Also, I am going to donate to Moscow Desire - because I would have PAID for this fix. You should do the same if it fixes yours.
My name is Steve Vance and I am thrilled to have been able to do this WITHOUT a ton of knowledge. The toughest thing you'll have to do is the "renaming" thing.
I hope it fixes your bricked A500 the way it fixed mine.
GOOD LUCK ALL AND THANKS MOSCOW DESIRE!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanted to say thanks again - my tablet is still working (and I've acquired two more on the second hand market)
help on the download link for acer a500
Hi rainbow4,
i have been searching to find a way to fixed my acer a500 until i came a cross your tread. my problem is i could not download the file on the link you posted. is there anyway you could help me out please.
Looking forward to hear from you
rrusmin36
---------- Post added at 05:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:45 PM ----------
Hi Moscow Desire,
i have been searching to find a way to fixed my acer a500 until i came a cross your tread. my problem is i could not download the file on the link you posted. is there anyway you could help me out please.
Looking forward to hear from you
rrusmin36
recovery verified failed no cpuid, 4 zip not work
Moscow Desire said:
You are most certainly welcome and big Thanks! Am glad it worked. Sometimes the easy way works, before pulling out the "big guns"
Now, last but not least. Get your CUID number and write it down in a safe place. You can find procedures (pretty simple) in the "Sticky Thread" in the Dev section near the top. You might need it one day.....
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Moscow. I have been reading so many threads and trying things out im going cu-cu.. but I tried the four zip files with no luck, and I have no cpuid. Just bought tablet yesterday for my boy, he was so happy. Just closed the internet by hitting home key, and bammm, just froze up. Waited and no responce so powered it off than on . Now just ACER LOGO, and a few times it went to the ANDROID LOGO. I know the a500 was rooted because of an app that checks it that I opened, and it said "rooted". Besides that I dont know anything else. But I tried the volume and power, seems like theres no recovery on this thing. Jus says, " Booting recovery kernal image. In red it says, Recovery verified failed. The magic words we all are familar with. without the cpuid and not being able to work with any of the 4 zip files, am I in the creek without a paddle. Can you resurrect this with a magic trick you have up your sleeve. If anyone can, I thought it would be you, rather pay someone on here than ACER.
Once more a bump of thanks
Well, it's been four years and my ACER 500 bit the dust again. So I dug through this old thread and found my original notes. Printed them off and re-staged my ACER 500 and it is up and running once more.
Again - another thank you to Moscow Desire
rainbow4 said:
Well, it's been four years and my ACER 500 bit the dust again. So I dug through this old thread and found my original notes. Printed them off and re-staged my ACER 500 and it is up and running once more.
Again - another thank you to Moscow Desire
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just our of curiosity what rom are you running on your tablet?
Can't download
Folks, I'm not finding the way to download the files..
I can't find the 'plain, gray colored, download button'.
What am I loosing?
http://d-h.st/Zf8
http://d-h.st/2cm
http://d-h.st/gw8
http://d-h.st/KXI
giba_fernando said:
Folks, I'm not finding the way to download the files..
I can't find the 'plain, gray colored, download button'.
What am I loosing?
http://d-h.st/Zf8
http://d-h.st/2cm
http://d-h.st/gw8
http://d-h.st/KXI
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The actual download button is the blue one but it still doesn't seem to work I can't download anything. Just tap and hold on it and click open in new tab and see if it downloads for you.
turnert said:
The actual download button is the blue one but it still doesn't seem to work I can't download anything. Just tap and hold on it and click open in new tab and see if it downloads for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, The requested URL could not be retrieved.
Platform: Fire HD 8 (6th edition)
OS: 5.4.0.1
Willing to rollback?: Yes (it has broken some email functionality)
Launcher: Nova paid
I have activity launcher installed, as well as launcherhijack v3.
I have set the home screen button in accessibility, and have Nova enabled as the home. I have Nova enabled as the launcher, but have not deleted the fire launcher, as I would prefer not to.
The issue I'm having is that I can't seem to use widgets. I have read up on adb use for the fire, but Windows doesn't want to play nicely, and I don't currently have a linux machine available (yes, I could VM one, or setup a bootable USB, but I'm looking for a solution that would work with what I have currently in place).
Issue: Any time I go to place a widget on a Nova launcher screen, it brings up the list per normal, but when I go to place the widget, I get bounced back to the Kindle settings UI, and am unable to sort out a workaround.
Any suggestions would be appreciated, particularly if they don't require ADB, as so far Windows does not want to allow me to update the ADB drivers (it shows them as current stock drivers and functioning, as well as stating that the ones from google are a no-go).
Sadly, pushed the update when I did not expect it, so all of this was done after update rolled out. Play store was isntalled prior, and settings are for allowing debugging and developer settings, so at least I got the play store on prior to the update (which apparently some people are having issues with). For me, the store is working well, as is sideloading, which is why I'm thinking there must be a reliable solution to get widgets functioning in Nova without needing to ADB command it on.
Thank you,
--bb
No, you definitely need a working adb, it's your gate to all Fire HD hacks and improvements. If you can't - stay with Amazon bits and don't ask questions like this here.
Thanks to @DragonFire1024, we have a pretty nice hack to enable widgets on any launcher; it's very easy to apply and use. But PLEASE don't complain about prerequisites, if you can't get adb working on Windows, it's better to stay off all hacks and actually this site. Just enjoy your Amazon Fire HD (it's pretty cool even with OEM software installed).
Agreed! There is no need to be rude to those who are just learning. I appreciate those like Dragon who gives help to others without making them feel like idiots. With the help of this forum, I have gotten everything but gmail working! And that weird go to black screen and back to lock screen when I swipe application off the screen. An sure it will get fixed.
The widget script might work in a terminal emulator. Jack Pals on the play store is by far the best. Just search for terminal emulator for Android, place the script in the internal storage and try running it in the emulator. I honestly don't know if that will work though as all the hacks I do are usually with ADB.
DragonFire1024 said:
The widget script might work in a terminal emulator. Jack Pals on the play store is by far the best. Just search for terminal emulator for Android, place the script in the internal storage and try running it in the emulator. I honestly don't know if that will work though as all the hacks I do are usually with ADB.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! I will give that a try.
Let's try to keep the comments directly related to Q&A for this device.
Getting snarky with other users and starting a back and forth argument is off-topic, and usually rude (both violations of the rules).
So, please; keep the Off-topic back and forth off the thread. If you are offended by, or feel another user's comment violates the rules, simply REPORT the comment and do not engage the other user further. No need to add MORE clutter.
Thanks for your cooperation.
sensboston said:
No, you definitely need a working adb, it's your gate to all Fire HD hacks and improvements. If you can't - stay with Amazon bits and don't ask questions like this here.
Thanks to @DragonFire1024, we have a pretty nice hack to enable widgets on any launcher; it's very easy to apply and use. But PLEASE don't complain about prerequisites, if you can't get adb working on Windows, it's better to stay off all hacks and actually this site. Just enjoy your Amazon Fire HD (it's pretty cool even with OEM software installed).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please explain to me how I can update the ADB? I'm not familiar with how to do this at all.
https://www.xda-developers.com/install-adb-windows-macos-linux/
Yeah, but...
bladebarrier said:
https://www.xda-developers.com/install-adb-windows-macos-linux/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is where I started, but I have been unable to find a way to find anything mentioning ADB (much less enable it) on our Fire HD 8 (7th Generation).
I have been looking through multiple guides for the past 20 minutes, but the newest firmware seems to have hidden or disabled the ability on the actual device. I am logged into the tablet on the main account, but even under "Device Administrators" it says "No available device administrators".
Did Amazon manage to lock these down to be nothing but a pimp for Amazon (as was their intended goal)?
Edit: Fire OS 5.6.1.0
Did Amazon manage to lock these down to be nothing but a pimp for Amazon (as was their intended goal)?
Yes, they did. It's the razor and blades business model. Such as one item is sold at a low price (or given away for free) in order to increase sales of a complementary goods.
When you go into the Setting then into Device Options, is Developer Options at the bottom of the list? If it isn't I think you need to tap the Serial Number 7 times, then it should appear and that is where you can enable ADB.
The dedication of the members of the xda forums are the only reason why a lot of devices such as these manage to reach their potential. I'm pretty new here (joined in February) but I never seen any member give up on a device. What most see as frustration, including myself, a lot of the members here not only see a challenge but an opportunity.
caldersm44 said:
Agreed! There is no need to be rude to those who are just learning. I appreciate those like Dragon who gives help to others without making them feel like idiots. With the help of this forum, I have gotten everything but gmail working! And that weird go to black screen and back to lock screen when I swipe application off the screen. An sure it will get fixed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For now without a rooted device the kick to the lock screen cannot be fixed. That is an unfortunate event which is a result of disabling fire launcher without root. Gmail is give or take. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. If I really had to take a guess I would say Google and Amazon are fighting between each other to get Gmail to work or stop working. It seems when enough users complain Gmail stops working within a few minutes it works again in a couple days later Amazon stops it. I would go back to an old version of Gmail, take your pick and keep trying different versions from there. If he older versions don't work that I'm at a loss at the moment. I do not currently use Gmail on my Amazon tablets. Only because I get too much mail lol. however with that having been said I have never had a problem with Gmail on any of my Amazon tablets with or without root.
dondraper23 said:
Did Amazon manage to lock these down to be nothing but a pimp for Amazon (as was their intended goal)?
Yes, they did. It's the razor and blades business model. Such as one item is sold at a low price (or given away for free) in order to increase sales of a complementary goods.
When you go into the Setting then into Device Options, is Developer Options at the bottom of the list? If it isn't I think you need to tap the Serial Number 7 times, then it should appear and that is where you can enable ADB.
The dedication of the members of the xda forums are the only reason why a lot of devices such as these manage to reach their potential. I'm pretty new here (joined in February) but I never seen any member give up on a device. What most see as frustration, including myself, a lot of the members here not only see a challenge but an opportunity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reminder of how to enable Developer Options - it has been a while since I had to do that. ADB is now enabled!
Thanks to everyone in the xda-developers community!
AnotherNameFFS said:
Thanks for the reminder of how to enable Developer Options - it has been a while since I had to do that. ADB is now enabled!
Thanks to everyone in the xda-developers community!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad you got it enabled! It's one of those steps that is easy to forget
Why are you saying that he should get off the site. Thats rude