Database Users

Asus Transformer EPIC NOOB GUIDE.

In the process of updating information for ICS update and custom ROMs, please hold tight!
A lot of folks have been coming in with newly purchased TF101's lately, which is AWESOME, it means the community will go on longer than the expected life of the device probably, since the TF201 and TF700 have come out and are seeking to replace our beloved TF, this is good news that people still buy the OG Transformer.
That said, there have been the same problems posted by new users, over and over, and sure there are guides for just about everything. But why not one on..just...EVERYTHING?
Here we go, troubleshoot problems and learn your device, the noob way! The EPIC TF101 THREAD BEGINS!
All the typical disclaimers apply, if you mess your stuff up, it is your fault not mine. I did not discover any of these methods, develop any of these tools, or do anything else but compile it all in one epic post. This should be everything you need to know as a noob, I do not take credit for anything, except for making it all easily accessible to those who are unwilling/unable to spend the hours searching that I did. In other words, I did a lot of work for you, but others had done the work for me first. Full credit to them.
What is ROOTING? And why do it?
So you bought a new TF, and you want to root it? Or you want to know what rooting is, for that matter? Rooting is a method of obtaining what is called 'Root Access' to your device, giving you control of it. The 'Root' is the parent directory of your device's internal memory, where the system files are stored. Generally this is kept from your access, you will need to get your device 'rooted' in order to change the system. Once rooted, you will have an app installed called 'Superuser' which will selectively grant applications permission to alter or access your root directory. This method differs on every device, but don't worry- we have a very easy device to root.
VERY IMPORTANT! Do NOT use any of the tools here WHILE YOUR DOCK IS PLUGGED IN!! All these are for use with the TF101 unit BY ITSELF! Please don't brick your device or mess something up by trying it with the dock plugged in!
There have traditionally been several ways to accomplish this for our device, as new applications and tools are developed to make it easier it has gotten to be a very simple process. Which method you use will depend on what SBK version (Secure Boot Key) Transformer you have, and also that model's firmware version. Your firmware version can be located by going to Settings>About Tablet. Current version is 8.6.5.21 (TF101) or 8.6.6.23 (TF101G). When either firmware version (also referred to as the 'stock ROM' sometimes) can be used, it will be listed similar to '8.6.x.19', where x can be 5 or 6 for TF101 or TF101G, respectively.
KNOW YOUR SBK VERSION
As a TF owner looking to mod your device, you need to know that there are multiple SBK versions, primarily SBK1 and SBK2. There may possibly be other versions to come even. All you need to know is, that as of right now, SBK1 is the only model that can utilize a tool called NVFlash to UNBRICK your device if you mess it up too badly, and it is difficult to tell which SBK version you have. In order to find out, there are a few tools out there- one of them is for mac only, called SBKDetect found here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1232612
Another is primarily for Linux, but saavy Windows users can always boot from a Linux live CD on their machines to use it, called SBKDetect v2, here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1290503
The other way, if you are like me, and don't have Linux-abilities at the time of this writing (I'm working on that), you can always just GO FOR IT and try to flash a modded ROM via NVFlash. If you are SBK1 it will succeed. If not, it will fail. No harm done. Of course that means skipping ahead of a lot of learning first, so it is not advised IMO. It also means that if you DO have an SBK1 tablet, you just wiped all your data. It is not absolutely necessary to determine which SBK you have in order to root and mod your device.
A hit-or-miss way of detecting your SBK version is by looking at your device's serial number, located on the bottom of the device on a sticker. It will take the form of:
B70KAS638075
The ONLY digits you need to know are the FIRST THREE. Older models are SBK1. Manufacturing started at Bxx, and has gone to Cxx this year. All Cxx serial numbers will be SBK2. In fact it was in the middle of the B70 manufacturing that they changed the SBK version, so if you are B60, B50, B40 etc..you are sure to be SBK1. If you are B80, B90, C10, etc, you are sure to be SBK2. B70 owners, it's a coin toss. You must use one of the other methods to determine it.
The only thing that differs between SBK1 tablets and SBK2 tablets is the use of NVFlash. SBK2 cannot use NVFlash, so if you end up botching both your recovery and your ROM, and cannot boot into either, then you are SCREWED, so I would suggest reading everything before attempting to mod your device if you are an SBK2 owner.
NVFlash and APX mode
This was an early method used to root and flash recovery/roms, and is still a very useful application to have saved on a disk somewhere in the event that you own an SBK1, as it renders your tablet practically unbrickable. It can be found here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1123429
To use it you must enter APX mode on your TF101. This is tricky and confuses many users. The procedure is;
1. Press and hold volume UP and POWER buttons at the same time (it doesn't matter if the TF101 is on or off, if it is on, simply wait until it shuts off before proceding).
2. HOLD these buttons for approximately SIX SECONDS.
3. Plug TF101 into PC and listen for it to chime that it has detected it, it should load drivers and device will be listed in Right Cick>Computer/Properties/Device Manager/USB Universal Serial Bus Controller (or similar) as NVIDIA, not as ASUS.
4. If it does not, power on the TF and try again until it does.
NOTE: This is the only way to know if it is in APX mode as the screen remains powered off completely.
Once in APX mode now you can use NVFlash tool, place the system, boot, and recovery .img files into the root of the folder you extract NVFlash into and execute the download.bat file. If at any point the flash fails, this likely means you are SBK2.
ADB Mode
This stands for Android Debugging Bridge. This is not to be confused with APX mode, which is a separate thing entirely. To learn more about your device's ADB mode, see this excellent thread here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1071584
Another quick guide for ADB can be found here:
http://www.droidforums.net/forum/droid-hacks/6865-how-use-adb-all-commands-options.html
(sorry for the off-site link, trying to keep it as xda pure as possible!)
Razorclaw Root Tool
Razorclaw is by far my favorite method of rooting for the TF, it can be found here;
http://androidroot.mobi/2011/11/14/introducing-razorclaw-v1/
It does not matter what SBK version you have to use Razorclaw, that is why I prefer this method of rooting.. HOWEVER, it does require you to be using an older firmware version though. If you are on version 8.6.x.21 or above, you cannot use razorclaw. It works best on firmware 8.6.x.19. You simply install the app and follow the instructions (Root me nao!). It is a one click, native rooting tool.
If you are not on this firmware version and razorclaw will not work, there are options. You can either roll back your firmware version, the method is located here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1417006
If you are unsuccessful or want to try another way, you can use Nachoroot or ViperMOD.
Nachoroot Root Tool
This is one of the newer root tools, it is for all firmwares and all SBK versions, and can be found here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1427838
Nachoroot uses the ADB (Android Debugging Bridge) via a command prompt or terminal, all necessary drivers must be installed.
I cannot personally get this method to work because my PC will not install the drivers properly, and since I don't need the tool any longer, I must admit I've never used it, thus my bias towards Razorclaw. So, if you are having similar driver issues, rolling back firmware and using RC might be quicker and more painless.
ViperMOD Root Tool
ViperMOD is another method, similar to and related to Nachoroot, in that it uses the PC to root your TF101 and will need the appropriate drivers installed. The main difference being that this method will install Superuser as well. The other major difference is that while Nachoroot is done with a command dialogue, ViperMOD is done with a much simpler command interface (choose a number from a list of options rather than typing out commands). Interestingly enough, both of these methods work on both the TF101 and the TF201, and both methods appeared about the same time (posted on January 4th 2012). ViperMOD and Nachoroot represent the most recent methods for gaining root on the TF101. ViperMOD is unique that it has a feature to unroot your device as well, though you will need to have the stock ROM and recovery files available to completely return to stock. Find out more about ViperMOD here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1427125
I also cannot attest to the use of ViperMOD personally, I have used other methods, but many users have reported it quite simple to root with.
A quick breakdown;
Razorclaw, Nachoroot and ViperMOD will ONLY ROOT your device. No data will be wiped and you will have to install recovery later. In the case of Nachoroot, you will have to download superuser from the market, Razorclaw and ViperMOD installs it for you.
NVFlash WILL WIPE EVERYTHING! So understand that it will rewrite your TF101 internal memory competely and install a rooted ROM (or whatever you tell it to) on your device, as well as a boot and recovery image.
REGARDLESS OF THE ROOTING METHOD YOU CHOOSE, PLEASE READ THAT METHOD'S INSTRUCTIONS VERY CAREFULLY!!!
[Q]How do I know if I am rooted?
[A] Simply check within your app drawer for the superuser application (or download it from the market if using Nachoroot), to verify it works, download titanium backup and begin a batch backup and see if it asks permission, and if the batch completes. If you are not rooted, either try your first method again or try an alternate method.
Tip: Immediately after rooting you should back up your system with Titanium Backup, skip ahead to that section to learn how before moving on.
Recovery Mode
The stock recovery mode on the TF101 shows one of two screens; a green android in the middle of the screen with gears turning inside it, or the same android with a yellow triangle with an (!) inside it instead. The gears obviously mean it is working (flashing firmware), the (!) means something has gone wrong (no file found, flash failed). To enter recovery mode, you need to press and HOLD Volume DOWN and POWER when the device is powered OFF. As soon as the screen comes on, RELEASE THE POWER BUT HOLD THE VOLUME STILL. You will see white letters appear in the upper left corner of the screen, it is now okay to release the Volume DOWN button and quickly (within 5 seconds) press the Volume UP button to enter recovery mode. There are also applications, such as Reboot to Recovery, available on the market, that will allow you to reboot your device with one click into recovery mode without having to toggle your power/volume buttons.
About Stock Recovery Mode
The stock recovery mode is absolutely required to install official Asus OTA (Over The Air) updates. Unless your device is unrooted with a stock recovery mode, you will not be able to install any OTA updates, this includes ICS!! It can also be used to install (or RE-install if it were) your STOCK ROM (only official, digitally signed files will be accepted by the stock recovery to flash over the firmware, no modded roms will work). The method for doing this is outlined in the link for rolling back your firmware version above but I will summarize;
Recovery mode searches your external SD card ROOT DIRECTORY(and the internal memory's cache directory, but this is not useful for any practical reason for you) for these Asus files. The files must be named either;
EP101_SDUPDATE.zip
or
XX_user-epad-Z.Z.Z.ZZ.zip (X = firmware region stamp, WW, US, DE, etc, and Z - firmware version, 8.6.5.19, 8.6.6.21 etc)
I personally find the second configuration to work best. If stock recovery finds a file named appropriately and signed with the proper digital signature it will install it, and you will see gears turning. Otherwise; (!). Remember, it has to be on the SD card in the ROOT, not in a folder or it won't find it.
CWM Recovery Mode
ClockWorkMod Recovery mode replaces your stock android recovery mode, and gives you control of;
Flashing (installing) ROMs, recovery, themes and app packs, patches, kernels and more
Wiping cache, dalvik cache, system, data, etc
Backup and Restore features
Advanced features you probably won't need like fixing permissions and mounting partitions etc.
The important thing to know is if you want to be able to change ROMs right from your device, you need this. In order to install it on the TF, you can use an app called RecoveryInstaller, located here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1346180
It is a one-click app just like Razorclaw, download and a single click will install CWM for you, though it may be an older version it will work fine to install the most recent version, directly from CWM once you enter it the first time. You will need to give it superuser permission as well. The newest CWM for the TF101 is called ROGUE XM and it is available here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1446019
Simply place the newest version on your SD card where you can find it, and use the 'install from SD card' option to navigate to the new version file and select it, which will flash the recovery..then you will need to reboot.
CWM Recovery can also be installed when flashing your device from NVFlash, and the NVFlash versions of ROMs almost always contain the most recent versions of the CWM recovery as well, thus making an NVFlash a one-step procedure (flashes both ROM and recovery at same time). The risk of the one-step procedure is if you are using corrupted images or something unexpected occurs you may end up BOTCHING both recovery and ROM at the same time..of course- if you are SBK1 anyways, just reflash it with a different ROM and it will be fixed.
Once you have installed the latest CWM recovery now you will want to start flashing ROMs and Kernels. I will not be posting links to the custom ROMs and Kernels because there are too many of them, that will be your homework.
Custom ROMs
We are blessed to have some great devs working on our humble TF101. That said, the procedure to flash a ROM through CWM is simple;
1: Download desired ROM and place into your external SD card somewhere you will be able to find it, it doesn't matter.
2: Boot into recovery and go to Backup and Restore and make a backup file. This is commonly referred to as a 'Nandroid' backup, and will backup everything from your ROM to your Kernel to user files.
3: Once backed up, proceed to factory reset and wipe cache partition and dalvik cache, located in the 'advanced' menu.
4: Install from SD card, navigate to your directory and find your ROM (ONLY FLASH THINGS THAT ARE MADE SPECIFICALLY FOR THE TF101! Be sure it is compatible with your device!) and select it, scroll to yes...read and follow instructions. Tapdance and sing ABC's while making some breakfast- and you are done!
5: Reboot device
Please be sure to flash only files that are meant to be flashed via CWM, as some ROMs will also have an NVFlash version, which will not work in CWM.
The Stock ROM currently provided with the TF101 is Android 3.2.1, which is called Honeycomb (HC) which is exclusively for tablets, we are all awaiting the release of Android 4.0 commonly known as Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) which will merge the operating systems used on phones and tablets. Asus has said it will be out soon, so don't ask when it is coming! To learn more about the different Android versions, read this;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_version_history
I would suggest also to anyone wanting to modify their Android device to understand the history of Android itself and what it is, here;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_(operating_system)
Kernels
The kernel is the underbelly, the brain of the ROM. The kernel is what tells the hardware what to do when you interact with the software of the ROM. Most ROMs, I dare say almost every ROM unless specifically noted, does NOT come with it's own kernel but uses the kernel you have installed now on the device, unless it is a stock ROM, in which case most of them DO have kernels included. You want to be sure if what you are flashing has a kernel included or not, and you can always go back to another kernel version if you like, but understand that the OS will behave differently with different kernels. For example, if you wish to enable certain functions at the kernel-level, like overclocking, voodoo sound, etc, then you have to flash a customized kernel.
If you flash a custom kernel, then report your bugs to the developer of the kernel, not the ROM, as most bugs are produced by the kernel.
The procedure to flash a kernel is the same as with flashing a ROM, though you need not factory restore your device before installing, although every developer will agree that it is probably best to have what is called a 'clean install', where you would factory reset the device, flash your ROM, and flash your Kernel, and then restore your apps and information. How do you do that you say?
Titanium Backup
Titanium Backup is an app that is pretty self explainitory- it backs up all system files, data (this includes contacts, settings, call logs, etc) user apps, basically saves your state ON TOP of your ROM, where as the CWM Backup (commonly called a 'Nandroid') is the FULL ROM, Titanium Backup will only restore your settings and apps ON TOP of the ROM once installed. Therefore, you can backup all apps, safely factory reset. Install a clean ROM and Kernel together and then restore your data on top of them. This keeps your user files from either being accidentally overwritten or otherwise interfering with the installation of the ROM/Kernel whatever else you wish to flash.
IF YOU SKIPPED AHEAD READ THIS
Titanium Backup can be found on the market for free, if you like it, buy the paid version.
To backup and restore, simply press the settings softkey and choose 'batch' and select the appropriate action with caution. Press the 'RUN' button for the action of your choice and you will be prompted with a checklist of apps and data to run the batch on. Select which files you want or select all if it is your first time using the app and confirm the action. You will need to give Titanium Backup Superuser permission and make sure you have 'Unknown Sources' checked as well as 'Debugging Mode' checked in your settings/applications menu.
Ok, now go back to 'Recovery Mode' section and keep reading..
Also understand that if you are moving from a version that you have backed up in which apps will not be useable in the version you are moving to, the will not work either. For example, if you flash an ICS ROM and then save the ICS-only apps with titanium backup, and then try to move back to honeycomb or gingerbread (if you have a phone like I do) these apps will likely not install or if they do will FC (force close) constantly. Similar things can happen with user data, call logs from one dailer might not be compatible with an older version etc, so expect there to be instances where you have to selectively install apps one at a time to see if it causes bugs, testing the device for buggs, and uninstalling the app/data before proceding with your restore if it does.
Return to Stock
EDIT: While the below represents a review of how we used to unroot, I have now learned that merely flashing the stock ROM provided by Asus on their website will flash the recovery as well, and that there is a minor difference between the recovery img that came on the device stock versus the recovery img that comes loaded in the Asus firmware packages. If nothing else, the graphics are different, but I suspect that there could be other changes as well. To best unroot the device, simply watch and follow the video in the link.
Outdated info;
So, you played around, and you decided it was time to go back stock for that update, or maybe you just liked it better, or you wanted to give it to your grandma but knew Revolver was above her head- whatever the reason, you want to start fresh. The procedure requires you to get the Stock recovery image and a stock ROM. Luckily the stock ROMs are available on Asus' website, the recovery image isn't as easy to find, it is located here;
http://theunlockr.com/2011/11/28/how-to-unroot-and-remove-cwm-recovery-on-asus-transformer/
(Note: The recovery file is not region-specific, therefore it does not matter what version TF101 you have, it is one of the few 'universal' files for this device.
CAUTION: Unrooting with this procedure will only rewrite your system files on the system partition, if you have files located in your root directory that are user-created files that are not part of the system, these files will remain after unrooting, though you will not be able to view them as they are in the root directory, if you root the device again they will be visible. If selling your device or returning for an exchange and you are unrooting it, make sure to manually delete any files/folders that you created in your root directory and do a factory restore with CWM before flashing over your recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Procedure:
Click HERE to watch my UNROOTING How-to video.
There should also be a distinction made here between unrooting and breaking root access, while breaking root access will prevent you from having root access to your device, it does not return your device to stock. For example, deleting your superuser application and su binary files can 'break your root' as it is referred to. Yet, in order to effectively unroot your device, you should return the device to it's 100% stock configuration. If you are giving the tab to your grandma or little sister, breaking root is probably enough. If you want to return the device or sell it on XDA, you should probably return to stock completely.
Now that you have read all of this (hopefully) here is the shortcut you wished you had;
My HOW TO ROOT video (Part one)

So, now you are a BUTTFLIPPIN' PRO, you can root, you can flash recovery mode, ROMs, even Kernels, and you can flash stock files from your SD card so you can unroot and return to stock if you want. What if something goes wrong? What if you want to expand your knowledge?
Well this is what we all fear, this section will attempt to address possible outcomes of bad flashes, corrupt ROM images, bad recovery images, etc. as well as help you diagnose your problem and determine whether you need an RMA or to ask for help in the forum.
[Q] My screen won't come on! Help!
[A] In order to determine what the problem is, first try to power on normally, if that does not work try to power on with the USB device plugged into a PC, if you hear it connect you unfortuntely likely have a screen malfunction. If not, try to enter APX mode and listen for notification of connecting to your PC, if still no notification, try charging your tablet overnight and see if it is over-discharged, mine did this once and scared the CRAP out of me, I thought it was bricked, after 10 minutes of fooing with it a battery warning finally popped onto the screen for 1 second before shutting off again. Repeat the previous steps after 24 hours of charging (if TF does not power on on its' own). If none of these solutions work, try powering on and listening for the camera to 'click', if you do not hear this, then it is very likely you have a brick or malfunctioning device.
[Q] My dock drains very fast..why?
[A] This is a problem with old firmware and certain docks. The docks themselves were manufactured with hardware that prevents the updated firmware from being installed in the dock itself, which results in being unable to change the battery consumption configuration. The dock was originally designed to keep the TF awake so that a quick key press would wake it easily, but this resulted in battery drain, when Asus updated the firmware they realized some docks simply needed to be RMA'd. To test yours;
1. Make sure you are updated to the latest firmware for the dock (in Settings?About Tablet), latest firmware is EP101-0213.
2. In Settings>Screen make sure "MobileDock Battery saving mode" is checked.
3. Press the power button on the TF101 to turn the screen off, then press a key on the keyboard (not the mouse buttons).
If any key wakes the TF, then you have the defective dock and must be RMA'd. However if it does not wake, and you still have severe drain, try to resolve it by shutting off background services and checking to see if drain is bad without the dock as well. If it is still draining, as mine has done previously, contact Asus for an RMA.
[Q] My dock is making a strange squealing sound??
[A] Yes, I received one that did this myself, and returned it to the store I purchased it. As far as I could tell it only presented an annoyance, but others reported the issue and suspected that it might have been connected with some people's battery drain issue, so I returned mine as you probably should as well.
[Q] My screen has light bleeding around the edges..is this common?
[A] Unfortunately, yes, light bleed on these devices is far too common. You can try to return the device and get a better one, depending on the severity of the light bleed, and unfortunately it seems every device has it's quirks, you may end up with one that doesn't have much light bleed but has another problem..
[Q] My case creaks, is this normal?
[A] Yes, unfortunately, the plastic backplate has notches that are supposed to affix into the bezel, and sometimes these come loose. However, some people have reported being able to 'snap' it into place again within the bezel, others had to remove the bezel and backplate partially to resolve the issue- others just ignore it as it is only cosmetic.
[Q] My Transformer won't charge! Help!
[A] There could be a few reasons for this experience- the connector is a proprietary connector, and the wires inside can be easily tangled and snapped according to user experience- to verify that the cable works try plugging the device while powered on into the PC and listen for audio confirmation. If your cable is working, but the tablet doesn't seem to charge, you can try to plug in the dock to see if the led on it lights up (unfortunately the TF unit has no charging indicator except for when powered on). The charging adapter itself sometimes has connection problems inside it, and some users have reported success in simply enclosing the charger in a ziplock bag and placing it in the freezer for several hours. I don't know why this works for some, but it does. If it doesn't for you, however, you may need to order a new power adapter from Asus, or you can make your own here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1087321
[Q] My TF keeps booting and booting but never loads into my ROM..
[A] This is called a 'bootloop', and depending on how far it loads can tell you the severity of the boot loop. First thing to do, is to attempt to boot into recovery. Unless you have an SBK1 tab, this is going to be the only way you will be able to stop this. If not, you have a soft-brick. Eee Pad logo loads and reboots after this, then you have a problem with the ROM itself not wanting to boot (corrupt image, files missing, etc), and usually reflashing your previous ROM without wiping will cure the issue. Sometimes the issue is within the ROM, settings that lock up your device while initializing. If it makes it to the boot animation and reloads, there is a possibility that it is a setting within a kernel if you have a custom kernel installed, try another one, if you aren't running a custom kernel it could be user settings and a factory restore may resolve the issue, and if that fails try another ROM. If the TF will not go into recovery mode and reboots within 5-10 seconds from powering on, you might have a major problem with your system in which case only NVFlash is likely to help.
[Q] I keep getting FC's and bugs..(OR) Do I need to wipe to install...?
[A] Making sure you wipe the correct partitions before you flash new software is vital to making sure it functions properly. This is your necessary wiping procedure, although always best to have a clean install as previously stated;
Nature of the flash| Wipe cache? Wipe Dalvik? Factory Reset?
Clean ROM Flash = YES YES YES
Kernel Flash = YES YES NO
App Pack Flash = YES YES NO
Theme Flash = YES NO NO
ROM Re-flash = NO NO NO
Recovery Flash = NO NO NO
Nandroid Restore = NO NO NO
(Will work on getting this more graphlike after dinner )
Of course always better safe than sorry, and unless you are trying to preserve user apps and data while flashing a kernel or theme then it is always best to reinstall everything after a clean wipe to avoid orphan files and other messy possible errors.
[Q] I can't get into recovery! Help!
[A] The only time you really need to start worrying about not being able to get into recovery is if your ROM also will not load, and vice versa. Since you can simply use the RecoveryInstaller app to fix your broken recovery, similarly if your TF will boot into recovery mode but NOT into the ROM you simply flash (or re-flash) your previous ROM to restore your OS. For this reason, when wishing to update BOTH ROM and recovery, DO NOT FLASH BOTH AT ONCE WITHOUT CONFIRMING THE FIRST FLASH WORKED!
My general rule is to flash my recovery mode first, and then flash my ROM, this is true whether going forward in versions or rolling back to older versions. This way, as soon as you are done flashing and restart (simply holding Volume DOWN as it reboots on its own is enough to initiate recovery mode, be sure to then press Volume UP), you will know if your flash was a success and can rest easy as you flash your ROM, if done the other way around you have to boot into your OS to confirm the flash worked and then reboot back into recovery. If your recovery flash fails, simply allow the OS to load, load recovery installer again and try again.
In the case in which your ROM or recovery will not load, again, your only hope is that you are an SBK1 device and can restore your device via NVFlash.
[Q] Help! My buttons (volume, power) don't work!
[A] Unfortunately this has been discussed quite a bit, sometimes it is related to poor manufacturing, or user damage, or even a poor RMA service. In this case you have only two options- you can try to RMA it, or you can try to tear down the TF101 yourself to try and repair it. It isn't advisable if you can get it repaired under warranty, but if not, you can find discussion with photos of a teardown of the unit here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1109928
[Q] How do I edit the files in my root directory?
[A] The File Explorer app provided by Asus by design will not allow you to access the root directory, you must use an app, like Root Explorer. In order to change or delete files directly from this app, you will need to make sure the root is mounted as R/W (readable/writeable) as opposed to R/O (Read Only), there will be an option to 'mount R/W' if it is mounted currently as R/O, and vice versa.
[Q] How do I remove Asus' Pre-Installed apps (Bloatware)?
[A]While you can simply delete the app file with your Root Explorer, this may not delete all user data. You could download a tool called Root Uninstaller from the Android Market, or you can use the functions in Titanium Backup to run batch uninstalls, or just 'deselect all' and delete one at a time.
[Q] How do I get back my Asus or Google apps after flashing a modded ROM?
[A]GApps and Asus apps generally are not included with many custom ROMs for copyright reasons, but GApps can be found here;
http://goo-inside.me/gapps/
Asus apps can be found in Gnufabios' package 'Asus Removed Apps' that can be acquired through his Revolver Parts package if you are running that ROM, or can be downloaded here if not;
http://www.gnufabio.com/revolver/dls/
Or you can always make a Titanum Backup of your valued system apps before you flash your ROM. You can then do what I do, find the Titanium Backup folder on your internal and rename it 'TitaniumBackupStockApps' and move it to your SD card, then backup your user apps, rename THAT folder 'TitaniumBackupUserApps' (you may even want to date it or name which ROM it came from, this is your choice), and remove that from your internal memory. You could then do the same with user data, if you decide to do that separately. To flash them back, simply replace the folder and rename it to the 'TitaniumBackup' as it was originally, or, if the folder already exists you can simply copy over the contents, run the batch, then delete the contents and copy the user data contents over as well. This is a great way to keep your apps and data organized and backed up safely. You should make sure this stays up to date and delete old backups after 2 to 3 iterations.
[Q] Can I run Linux?
[A] Yes, look here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1364095
[Q] How do I install themes?
[A] Depending on the ROM and Launcher you are using, some of the theming options can be built in and accessed in settings menus inside the Android UI (User Interface). However, there are other themes that change files within your root directories and these files will generally need to be installed either via CWM or via ADB. The themes' developer should have clear instructions on installing it.

One more reserved.. This one is for my thank-yous and anything else I miss guys
Roach2010, mike1986, gnufabio, xboxfanj, blades, Clemsyn, baseballfaz, danzano, paulburton, kaijura, daoist, supercurio, MrNago, jcarrz1, rayman84, lilstevie, rburrow, solarnz, fonix232, daxtsu, dipje, frankc123, Sharpe351, chatch15117 ,K900 ,earthbound, AproSamurai, TOO MANY TO REMEMBER YOU ALL!!
You guys are why I am able to do what I do now..

Mods: Stickie this!!!!

This is great! Have my tf a month and had to search all over to root/rom/etc.wish I'd had this info
Great help for us tf noobs.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium

Thanks for taking the time to write this up!
Absolute champ!

nice one..thanks mate

Get work this is a must have guide
Sent from my EVO Titan 3D

Fantastic! Having current info all in one place is rare, especially on "older" devices.
Edit: Maybe add a section or note about ViperMOD

Nice job Luna.
+1 on the vipermod. That is what I used and it was extremy simple.

ViperMOD..the one thing I have no experience in on this device it seems; I did a crash course, seems it was actually based right off of Nachoroot, just a cleaned up command prompt interface, and interestingly works on TF101 and TF201. Perhaps that is why I never used it- the post is located in the Prime forum section
Added to OP, guys help me check for accuracy, and correct me if I get anything confused.
Next have some few things to polish up in my thank-yous and try not to leave anyone slighted. Also, thinking of a few more common problems to add to post two. Anything not addressed here just comment or PM me about it I will amend these posts.
THANKS!

Hi Luna
I tried to follow the Return to Stock instructions you listed but there seems to be some problems.
I know these problems are not your fault but maybe you know of another alternative which is as easy to follow as well?
I need a WW Version of the packed stock Rom but neither US nor WW are available due to the mediafire problem.
And the recovery is called 8239USrecovery so I assume I can't use it with my WW version?
Return to Stock
So, you played around, and you decided it was time to go back stock for that update, or maybe you just liked it better, or you wanted to give it to your grandma but knew Revolver was above her head- whatever the reason, you want to start fresh. The procedure requires you to get the Stock recovery image and a stock ROM. Luckily the stock ROMs are available on Asus' website, the recovery image isn't as easy to find, it i located here;
http://theunlockr.com/2011/11/28/how...s-transformer/
Place both files on your SD, but make sure the ROM file is in root (they can both be in the root it doesn't matter) and then use CWM to flash the recovery image, then WIPE EVERYTHING before rebooting into recovery mode again to confirm you have stock recovery in place, and allow it to flash stock ROM. Double check that you are unrooted by downloading superuser and installing it and seeing if it allows you root access (it should not).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

luna_c666 said:
About Stock Recovery Mode
The stock recovery mode is absolutely required to install official Asus OTA (Over The Air) updates. It can also be used to install (or RE-install if it were) your STOCK ROM (only official, digitally signed files will be accepted by the stock recovery to flash over the firmware, no modded roms will work). The method for doing this is outlined in the link for rolling back your firmware version above but I will summarize;
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So theoretically this stock recovery mode will allow us to recover to a stock Asus signed ROM in case the main ROM get damaged? for example if rooting goes wrong or any other reason?
I have an SBK2 TF101, and I don't want to install CWM for the moment but want to have root, and don't want to brick my pad.

Outstanding post. Thanks a lot...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk

Malandro2011 said:
Hi Luna
I tried to follow the Return to Stock instructions you listed but there seems to be some problems.
I know these problems are not your fault but maybe you know of another alternative which is as easy to follow as well?
I need a WW Version of the packed stock Rom but neither US nor WW are available due to the mediafire problem.
And the recovery is called 8239USrecovery so I assume I can't use it with my WW version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The recovery mode can be used regardless of region or firmware version, and if you are unable to locate the firmware files due to mediafire and megaupload etc. being down, simply retrieve them from Asus' website here;
http://www.asus.com/Eee/Eee_Pad/Eee_Pad_Transformer_TF101/#download
I'll update the OP to make this more clear

mcbyte_it said:
So theoretically this stock recovery mode will allow us to recover to a stock Asus signed ROM in case the main ROM get damaged? for example if rooting goes wrong or any other reason?
I have an SBK2 TF101, and I don't want to install CWM for the moment but want to have root, and don't want to brick my pad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, if you retain your stock recovery mode then it will be able to flash your firmware in the event that your ROM gets messed up for whatever reason, so long as you use the Stock signed copies of your firmware from Asus (i.e. the official files), recovery mode as stated will only flash official Asus files, they are digitally signed by Asus and without the signature recovery mode will fail.
And to put you at ease, the likelihood of anything going wrong while rooting is much smaller than flashing custom ROMs or recovery mode. Rooting is fairly fail-safe if you follow directions well.

luna_c666 said:
Yes, if you retain your stock recovery mode then it will be able to flash your firmware in the event that your ROM gets messed up for whatever reason, so long as you use the Stock signed copies of your firmware from Asus (i.e. the official files), recovery mode as stated will only flash official Asus files, they are digitally signed by Asus and without the signature recovery mode will fail.
And to put you at ease, the likelihood of anything going wrong while rooting is much smaller than flashing custom ROMs or recovery mode. Rooting is fairly fail-safe if you follow directions well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am asking because, as mentioned earlier, I only need to root for now without going the whole mod thing, because at the moment I am still not convinced that an android tablet suits me, so in case I still don't like it I want to be able to restore the stock ROM without going more into modding CWM and risking a brick.
So, in the case I root then later decide that I want to unroot, it is enough to put the signed stock Asus firmware on the SD card and boot into recovery mode, and it will be unrooted? why is it then that most unrooting guides does this with a special repacked zip file? why not just stock asus zip?

sticky!

mcbyte_it said:
I am asking because, as mentioned earlier, I only need to root for now without going the whole mod thing, because at the moment I am still not convinced that an android tablet suits me, so in case I still don't like it I want to be able to restore the stock ROM without going more into modding CWM and risking a brick.
So, in the case I root then later decide that I want to unroot, it is enough to put the signed stock Asus firmware on the SD card and boot into recovery mode, and it will be unrooted? why is it then that most unrooting guides does this with a special repacked zip file? why not just stock asus zip?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, you should know that if you do not install CWM and flash a custom ROM, you will never actually know what you can do with an android tablet
But to answer about why others use special zips, unrooting with the Asus file actually does not delete anything on your system partition, it will simply rewrite all the system files, if there are other files that are unrelated to the rooting process leftover in your system partition those files will remain after unrooting. That is what the unroot zip files do usually, is they delete everything and reformat the system partition before installing (instead of just overwrite installing) to avoid leaving orphan files. But these orphan files usually do not impact your system (the entire system has been rewritten anyway) and for sake of argument your TF is unrooted, as you no longer have root access. To avoid leaving anything in your system after unrooting you should factory restore and delete all user apps/data with something like titanium backup before installing the stock firmware over your old rooted ROM. I will think of how to add this to the OP to make it more clear.
Basically though, if you unroot you will want to manually remove any files that are in your system partition (root directory) that were not there when you first rooted your TF or flashing the stock ROM will simply leave those and overwrite the other folders/files.

Just to throw something in here about that. Vipermod does have an unroot setting in it's commands.
Or using terminal emulator or adb
su
rm -r /system/app/Superuser.apk
rm -r /system/xbin/busybox
rm -r /system/bin/su
reboot

[Q] How-To Downgrade Official ICS to HC

After the OTA update to ICS on my 3.2.1 Gen 2, U.S. a500 (unrooted and unaltered at the time), my accelerometer seemed to stop working. (The curious thing about this is that the accelerometer will work only if i reset with a paperclip).
Factory Resets don't seem to do anything.
I want to go back to 3.2.1 HC, and then reinstall the ICS update, how do I do this? I am currently rooted on ICS via blackthunder.

Sazavar said:
After the OTA update to ICS on my 3.2.1 Gen 2, U.S. a500 (unrooted and unaltered at the time), my accelerometer seemed to stop working. (The curious thing about this is that the accelerometer will work only if i reset with a paperclip).
Factory Resets don't seem to do anything.
I want to go back to 3.2.1 HC, and then reinstall the ICS update, how do I do this? I am currently rooted on ICS via blackthunder.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Couple options;
1. check out some of the custom Roms which may have stable working accelerometer.
2. Use blackthund3rs apxflash tool in my sig 2 go back, I not done it but I'm sure if u asked on the thread sum 1 will help out.
Our builds hc 7.014.15 have not recd an ota yet, which may bode well for thinking that Acer may be working on a patch to fix the issues in the first release. All conjecture of course
_________________________________________________
Jazzyjames method here on how to roll back ICShttp://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1516012
he uses timmydeans v4 zip to roll back...it was for the ICS Leak version but dont see any reason why it wont work on stock -
please someone correct me if i'm wrong about this.......
things you need for this to work:
timmydeans v4 zip its about 400mb (the mirrors can be slow and erratic, if you want it i can pm you a better link)
Acer Drivers from Acer Support Download Page
a pc running win7/vista ideally, xp is a bit flaky
dot net framework 4 installed on yr pc
terminal emulator from the market
Your cpuid which you can try getting now - the downgrade wont work without it
open terminal emulator app
and type in dmesg > /mnt/sdcard/dmesg.txt
open the text file and look for androidboot.serialno=
this is your cpuid - write it down and keep it safe!!!!
you also need to enter download or apx mode manually via button combo, this can be tricky and can become
extremely frustrating!!! It involves pressing and holding in the reset and power buttons in just the right way
....but full instructions are given.
thats pretty much it, most of the process is done via your pc -
the cpuid and getting it into download mode are the most difficult part
there are on screen instructions all the way through to help you
i've attached an image of a "cannot detect your iconia screen" which you
need to get to first before you can enter download mode....some people have had real trouble getting this to come up -
but only because they're weren't following the instructions to the letter....
oh and it will WIPE YOUR DATA so backup what you don't want to lose......
You will end up with a Stock Rooted 3.2.1 gen2 with CWM
whatever way you decide Good Luck

Iconia A500 SOD fix (at least for me)

I've been dealing with SOD (Sleep Of Death) problem since official OTA ICS update. On HC everything (except calendar) was fine, but after official ICS update I was having SOD almost every sleep longer then few minutes.
Tried WiFi/sync tricks etc.
What helped ? Well..
1. hardware reset (Vol+ / Pwr / RotateLock)
2. factory reset (from Settings Menu)
3. full update via sd card (Vol- / Pwr)
OFFICIAL ROM: 7.014.16 - 041.213.01 - COM_GEN1 (ICS)
(Acer_A500_7.014.16_041.213.01_COM_GEN1_1336732099520_45282ff4.zip)
and once again:
4. hardware reset (Vol+ / Pwr / RotateLock)
5. factory reset (from Settings Menu)
...I know that hardware & facory reset are pretty much the same, but...It helped...

mayekk said:
I've been dealing with SOD (Sleep Of Death) problem since official OTA ICS update. On HC everything (except calendar) was fine, but after official ICS update I was having SOD almost every sleep longer then few minutes.
Tried WiFi/sync tricks etc.
What helped ? Well..
1. hardware reset (Vol+ / Pwr / RotateLock)
2. factory reset (from Settings Menu)
3. full update via sd card (Vol- / Pwr)
OFFICIAL ROM: 7.014.16 - 041.213.01 - COM_GEN1 (ICS)
(Acer_A500_7.014.16_041.213.01_COM_GEN1_1336732099520_45282ff4.zip)
and once again:
4. hardware reset (Vol+ / Pwr / RotateLock)
5. factory reset (from Settings Menu)
...I know that hardware & facory reset are pretty much the same, but...It helped...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does t means I have to re-install all applications?

cscs3 said:
Does t means I have to re-install all applications?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, but you can use titanium backup or similar app to do it for you...

I have a A501 and want to get rid of this sod problem. so i took the last "Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0.3 (LEAK)" Rom from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1816560 and tried to install the update.zip file from the sd card. When i get to the recovery it starts but crashes after a few seconds. Do i habe to install a different recovery or unlock my bootloader? I'm a little bit confused...can somebody give me a short hint? Thx.

captainn said:
I have a A501 and want to get rid of this sod problem. so i took the last "Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0.3 (LEAK)" Rom from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1816560 and tried to install the update.zip file from the sd card. When i get to the recovery it starts but crashes after a few seconds. Do i habe to install a different recovery or unlock my bootloader? I'm a little bit confused...can somebody give me a short hint? Thx.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is probably because of a couple of reasons.
1. You didn't do the incremental update. The available update files are incremental patch files, which means you have to have the others installed before you install the latest. Or at least part 1 and 2 of the original leak.
2. You didn't decrypt the file and remove the "update.zip". Generally, you can't just rename these update files to "update.zip". So the latest OTA you took, you should decrypt it "if it needs it", open in 7zip or Winzip and pull the update.zip file and copy that to your EXT SD card.
The final Official release build, was build .021. So if you still get SOD on .021, then chances are you have one of the later revision tablets, and may have to wait a long time until Acer releases another update, as the later revisions only account for a very small percentage.
Or, you can install the unlocked bootloader, and try one of the newer kernels we have.
MD

Moscow Desire said:
This is probably because of a couple of reasons.
1. You didn't do the incremental update. The available update files are incremental patch files, which means you have to have the others installed before you install the latest. Or at least part 1 and 2 of the original leak.
2. You didn't decrypt the file and remove the "update.zip". Generally, you can't just rename these update files to "update.zip". So the latest OTA you took, you should decrypt it "if it needs it", open in 7zip or Winzip and pull the update.zip file and copy that to your EXT SD card.
The final Official release build, was build .021. So if you still get SOD on .021, then chances are you have one of the later revision tablets, and may have to wait a long time until Acer releases another update, as the later revisions only account for a very small percentage.
Or, you can install the unlocked bootloader, and try one of the newer kernels we have.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your replay. So what i did was to install all available OTA updates. Then i downloaded the full package Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0.3 (LEAK) from the site above, extracted the update.zip from this archive and put it on the external sd card. i think that is all i have to do. And my current build number is Acer_AV041_A501_1.021.00_EMEA_DE...so don't know exactly if "[LEAK]Acer A501 ICS (COM_GEN1). Build number 041.126.01" is the same version.
And i tried to unlock my bootloader but the next funny thing is that i tried that Afterota-Tool, but it stucks at 3/4 "Flashing recovery...".
I don't want to loose my 3G-Feature and i saw that nearly all roms are only for A500. Which kernel and rom would you recommend for me?
Looking forward for your replay. Thx a lot!

captainn said:
Thanks for your replay. So what i did was to install all available OTA updates. Then i downloaded the full package Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0.3 (LEAK) from the site above, extracted the update.zip from this archive and put it on the external sd card. i think that is all i have to do. And my current build number is Acer_AV041_A501_1.021.00_EMEA_DE...so don't know exactly if "[LEAK]Acer A501 ICS (COM_GEN1). Build number 041.126.01" is the same version.
And i tried to unlock my bootloader but the next funny thing is that i tried that Afterota-Tool, but it stucks at 3/4 "Flashing recovery...".
I don't want to loose my 3G-Feature and i saw that nearly all roms are only for A500. Which kernel and rom would you recommend for me?
Looking forward for your replay. Thx a lot!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You current build is cooked my friend. Unless you want Acer repair.
Most of all OTA ICS Updates are Com Gen 1 now. Not sure what acer had in mind. But I believe it has duetch or danish language.
You have to use a 501 update if you want to use 3g and GPS.
My question, were you successful in booting to your system after installing the updates correctly? That is my primary question. If so, make sure you have USB debugging turned on.
But I need to know exactly what your tablet is in now before going further. Does it boot into the OS after running the updates?
MD

Moscow Desire said:
You current build is cooked my friend. Unless you want Acer repair.
Most of all OTA ICS Updates are Com Gen 1 now. Not sure what acer had in mind. But I believe it has duetch or danish language.
You have to use a 501 update if you want to use 3g and GPS.
My question, were you successful in booting to your system after installing the updates correctly? That is my primary question. If so, make sure you have USB debugging turned on.
But I need to know exactly what your tablet is in now before going further. Does it boot into the OS after running the updates?
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know exactly which updates you are talking about. I installed all the available ota updates and the tablet booted correctly after this. If you mean any other update via sd-card i can only tell you that i was not able to install one of them. what do you mean with "cooked"? sorry for stupid questions
My USB debugging ist turned on, firewall and uac off.
Thx.

captainn said:
I don't know exactly which updates you are talking about. I installed all the available ota updates and the tablet booted correctly after this. If you mean any other update via sd-card i can only tell you that i was not able to install one of them. what do you mean with "cooked"? sorry for stupid questions
My USB debugging ist turned on, firewall and uac off.
Thx.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only stupid question, is the one that doesn't get asked
What is the current version you are on? (settings/about tablet) The current build should be .021
MD

Moscow Desire said:
The only stupid question, is the one that doesn't get asked
What is the current version you are on? (settings/about tablet) The current build should be .021
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android 4.0.3
Kernel 2.6.39.4+
Image Acer_AV041_A501_RV20RC05_EMEA
Build Acer_AV041_A501_1.021.00_EMEA_DE
P/N FM.S14A0.02A
Is it all you need?

captainn said:
Android 4.0.3
Kernel 2.6.39.4+
Image Acer_AV041_A501_RV20RC05_EMEA
Build Acer_AV041_A501_1.021.00_EMEA_DE
P/N FM.S14A0.02A
Is it all you need?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you have build .021 But I am surprised it's not WW_Com_Gen_1
This is the latest Acer build. So stay with it.
Ok, info for you, I am currently working with kernel dev's to maybe get something better as far as kernels, that may help with your SOD if you still have it.
For right now, let us work on things. This may take a few days.
As with Unlocked Bootloader and CWM recovery.
Here is what you should do.
GET YOUR UID NUMBER and write it down.
1. Make sure your Acer drivers are installed.
2. Using After OTA, only install the Patched Bootloader.
3. If you already have the patched bootloader installed (you see Skirlax_CZ bootloader text when you boot),
Did it install the patched bootloader?
MD

Moscow Desire said:
Yes, you have build .021 But I am surprised it's not WW_Com_Gen_1
This is the latest Acer build. So stay with it.
Ok, info for you, I am currently working with kernel dev's to maybe get something better as far as kernels, that may help with your SOD if you still have it.
For right now, let us work on things. This may take a few days.
As with Unlocked Bootloader and CWM recovery.
Here is what you should do.
GET YOUR UID NUMBER and write it down.
1. Make sure your Acer drivers are installed.
2. Using After OTA, only install the Patched Bootloader.
3. If you already have the patched bootloader installed (you see Skirlax_CZ bootloader text when you boot),
Did it install the patched bootloader?
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So in Afterota i open the tab advanced and there i can choose "browse for custom bootloader" and i can choose between different binary files. I think "bl_ics_ac_v8.bin" or "bl_ics_pb_v8.bin" should be right. What's the difference, what's the right one?

captainn said:
So in Afterota i open the tab advanced and there i can choose "browse for custom bootloader" and i can choose between different binary files. I think "bl_ics_ac_v8.bin" or "bl_ics_pb_v8.bin" should be right. What's the difference, what's the right one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I did things the old fashioned way.
If I am to guess. the first one is CWM recovery included, and the second is Public Recovery included. I never used this tool
I would choose door number 1
BTW, there are other methods to install these things. But let's see what happens. Personally, I don't use these all in 1 tools. Got too many of them in the forums. But, let's see what happens.
If not successful, we'll use My method. And you will learn something in the process.
MD

Moscow Desire said:
Well, I did things the old fashioned way.
If I am to guess. the first one is CWM recovery included, and the second is Public Recovery included. I never used this tool
I would choose door number 1
BTW, there are other methods to install these things. But let's see what happens. Personally, I don't use these all in 1 tools. Got too many of them in the forums. But, let's see what happens.
If not successful, we'll use My method. And you will learn something in the process.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
*LOL* Tool doesn't work at all...so i will do it by using another method...can you recommend one that really works= :fingers-crossed:

captainn said:
*LOL* Tool doesn't work at all...so i will do it by using another method...can you recommend one that really works= :fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ehhhh,,, we're gonna do it my way now.
Ok, keep in mind, it's late in Moscow, and I have a baby that will need bath (long process) and other family duties.
Let's get your computer prepared the way it should always be when dealing with the dark side of android.
Your tab is running now, and that's good. You have a .021 build. Ok. But let;s see if we can make it better.
First thing, and I hope you have Windows XP or Windows 7.
Download and install the Android SDK.
http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html
Now, next, is the Oracle Java Platform (JDK)
http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/java/javase/downloads/index.html
After you do these 2 things, well, we can move over to the dark side.
Now, after everything is installed, I want you to do something.
Connect your tab with USB debugging on. (Never turn this off)
Open Windows explorer, go to C:\program file (x86)\Android\Android-sdk\platform tools . Open a command window here (SHIFT & Right mouse click)
Then type adb devices in the CMD window. Should show device connected and some numbers.
This tells me the drivers are installed.
If not, You have to install Acer USB drivers from the website.
Then try again.
And that, is as far as I go tonight, too late.
Tomorrow, I will give you a lesson in NVFlash and fastboot.
Rule number 1. Drivers, Drivers, Drivers. This was just to prepare your system.
To save some time, for tomorrow, shut down your tab.
Using a paper clip, or needle or something. Press and hold the pin hole button near the USB port. Hold it. Then, press and hold PWR button. Wait 4 seconds, release PWR only. 1 second later, release the pin hole.
Tab should be black. PWR button white. You may get vibrate.
This is what we call APX mode.
When you connect your tab to your PC, after a few seconds, the PC should recognize this as (Recovery Mode, APX Mode, or Download Mode)
Will need to know what it says. If it says nothing, but gives you an error in Windows device manager, then Houston, we have a problem. And the problem is the drivers. And you need to fix it. You may have to manually select from a list or tell it where the drivers are.
And that is all for tonight Mate. Baby needs bath.
MD

Thank you very much. I installed the bootloader, the recovery and the tegraowner ics rom for the A501. It looks great and it seems that SOD is now part of the history 3G is also working. Great success :laugh:
Thanks for your help and to all developers!

captainn said:
Thank you very much. I installed the bootloader, the recovery and the tegraowner ics rom for the A501. It looks great and it seems that SOD is now part of the history 3G is also working. Great success :laugh:
Thanks for your help and to all developers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great! Was waiting to hear!
Not that I demand it, but, it's customary to hit the "thanks" button for those that help
Always remember, you have a "fastboot" bootloader, so if something happens, you can boot to the Fastboot, and do things like install boot.img's (kernels), Custom Recoveries, and some other things. That's why you installed Android SDK. Also, you have ADB capability as well.
Rock On!
MD

Moscow Desire said:
Great! Was waiting to hear!
Not that I demand it, but, it's customary to hit the "thanks" button for those that help
Always remember, you have a "fastboot" bootloader, so if something happens, you can boot to the Fastboot, and do things like install boot.img's (kernels), Custom Recoveries, and some other things. That's why you installed Android SDK. Also, you have ADB capability as well.
Rock On!
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In addition: Now i am using "ICS Evil Alex Unleashed Ver 2". I switched because gps is not working when using tegraowners rom. Now it seems, that all important features are working! Thanks a lot for your rom!

I have the official A500 ICS, didn't do anything other than the OTA upgrade, and it worked fine until I installed some additional apps, it started to do the SOD. Then I uninstalled the latest apps I added, more likely instagram, and the SOD went away, till now at least. So, if you can't get it to work, maybe a factory reset to clear out all the apps might help, then, add apps slowly to see find out which one actually act bad.

Moscow Desire said:
Ehhhh,,, we're gonna do it my way now.
Ok, keep in mind, it's late in Moscow, and I have a baby that will need bath (long process) and other family duties.
Let's get your computer prepared the way it should always be when dealing with the dark side of android.
Your tab is running now, and that's good. You have a .021 build. Ok. But let;s see if we can make it better.
First thing, and I hope you have Windows XP or Windows 7.
Download and install the Android SDK.
http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html
Now, next, is the Oracle Java Platform (JDK)
http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/java/javase/downloads/index.html
After you do these 2 things, well, we can move over to the dark side.
Now, after everything is installed, I want you to do something.
Connect your tab with USB debugging on. (Never turn this off)
Open Windows explorer, go to C:\program file (x86)\Android\Android-sdk\platform tools . Open a command window here (SHIFT & Right mouse click)
Then type adb devices in the CMD window. Should show device connected and some numbers.
This tells me the drivers are installed.
If not, You have to install Acer USB drivers from the website.
Then try again.
And that, is as far as I go tonight, too late.
Tomorrow, I will give you a lesson in NVFlash and fastboot.
Rule number 1. Drivers, Drivers, Drivers. This was just to prepare your system.
To save some time, for tomorrow, shut down your tab.
Using a paper clip, or needle or something. Press and hold the pin hole button near the USB port. Hold it. Then, press and hold PWR button. Wait 4 seconds, release PWR only. 1 second later, release the pin hole.
Tab should be black. PWR button white. You may get vibrate.
This is what we call APX mode.
When you connect your tab to your PC, after a few seconds, the PC should recognize this as (Recovery Mode, APX Mode, or Download Mode)
Will need to know what it says. If it says nothing, but gives you an error in Windows device manager, then Houston, we have a problem. And the problem is the drivers. And you need to fix it. You may have to manually select from a list or tell it where the drivers are.
And that is all for tonight Mate. Baby needs bath.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great tutorial!
I have a500 with ota ICS. Rooted. Locked bootloader. And working fine, but I think it could be better..
I am used to flashing rom and kernel on my android phone, but it looks like it is a bit more difficult on this device..
If I want to try another rom, should I follow your tutorial first? Or what do I do?
Oh, and what rom do you recommend? - I need fast, reliable and everything working.. Nothing fancy is required
Sent from my A500 using xda app-developers app

[ROOT\RECOVERY\ROMS][NX008HD8G] Nextbook 8" Resources

WARNING: These files are reported as not working on Next8HD8G tablets manufactured after August 2013. Check your serial number. If it begins YFG1013... YFG1113... or higher, do not use these files. You may try to root using Cydia Impactor instead. If you do root one of the newer tablets, please dump the ROM for the rest of us!​
Nextbook 8"​
The Nextbook 8 is an afordable 99USD tablet from walmart. Widelly adapted but not with any serious unofficial development going on. I purchased one for a friend and couldn't resist to tweak it. I tried to find some ROMs to no avail. Also rooting was a long journey. So I decided to create this resource thread to help out people to this device and even present my own ROM. So without further to do I begin :​
Rooting & Recovery the Easy way​
Rooting was my first concern so I could de-bloat the tablet itself since it came with various unused software. The most efficient method I came across was the one presented by shaunmt at the freaktab forums here. So let me show you how it's done.
1. Download the modified stock recovery from shaunmt
2. Extract the archive and place the image in the root of your external SD card! NOT THE INTERNAL ONE!
3. Download and copy the root package by Kyser to your external SD card!
4. Power off the tablet and then hold down both volume keys while holding the power button. The tablet should show the first splash screen and then a black one followed by the recovery screen.
5. Use the Volume keys to navigate in the menu and the power button to confirm your selection. Select flash from EXT (or something like that), then select your SD card and then select the root package to install. The root package will be installed. Navigate back to the root mneu and select "reboot system"
6. Rooting should have finished and your tablet once powered on should be permanently rooted. But in the case that you don't see a root management application go to the Play Store and download either SuperSU or Super User.
7. Finished!
ROMs ​
1. Stock ROM - Packed by shaunmt at freaktab - here
2. nextGen 8" - By CedArctic - Comming soon​
Always perform a full wipe when installing ROMs. Neither of these ROMs has been personally tested by me. Shaunmt from freaktab owns all the work on the thread (except my ROM).

Reserved for future needs

Keep an eye on my threads at FreakTab... there is lots more coming soon...
ShaunMT
Developer at FreakTab.com

help
i did every step and installation was aborted... any tips?

You don't have the custom recovery file in your EXTERNAL sd card. The stock recovery aborts the installation due to not recognising the google installation keys.

How would I go about dumping the ROM so we can make recovery and a custom ROM. Mine is the newer one. Rooted and debloated
Sent from my MB865 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

sir shaunmt can you examine my dump files if it is usable in porting any custom recovery in my device? here's my dump file..
http://www.4shared.com/rar/kpulgLt3ce/romdump.html?
thanks for the help in advance..

Same here
I picked one up for either modding or dismantling it to see if I could build it. So the root thing is new to me, I have been spending a few days reading over you guys tuts and suggestions. I came across this one and it seemed fairly simple, take the downloads, extract to SD and recovery reboot? However it has not worked. If I push both volumes I get small yellow script at top saying DNX Fastboot mode, if I do the volume up button with power, I get the options of REBOOT, RECOVERY,POWER OFF, and I believe one other one. Either way I seem to hit a wall. I'm have no doubt it's me, but I would a appreciate a lil advice.
Thank you

NX008HD8G, Firmware? Root?
Hey Guys! I was wondering if maybe there was another link to the files? Has anyone figured out how to update the firmware on the NX008HD8G? I’m having trouble trying to root and I’m unable to find anything on how to at least update the firmware to 4.4.2. I’ve been having trouble with google play services, and could use either the stock rom or maybe a custom. Please help! Hopefully someone sees this!

Rooting NX008HD8G
These files are dead. Is there anything way you could update them? I’m unable to root or even update firmware. :victory: @CedArctic @shaunmt

How to root and flash recovery&ROM in 2015?

I recently received Acer Iconia A500 with stock 4.0.3 ROM (unrooted). I'd like to have root, flash recovery (prefer TWRP-like recoveries) and custom ROM (OmniROM 5.1.1 to get apps like MS Office/Word which 4.0.3 does not support). I've done a lot of background research on this matter but I'm really lost. There seem to be so many different methods of achieving this and none of them are written so that an unexperienced person (and I flash recoveries and custom ROMs many times a week to my Samsung phones) could completely understand what they do. There seem to be other problems as well such as dead links to installation files or executables that are problematic in Win8/10 environments (giving errors like 'install .NET 2.0 framework').
So here's what I currently understand. I get that I first need to root the A500 and that many rooting methods also unlock the bootloader (those are not familiar to me) and add an older recovery which then can be used to flash a newer recovery (with which I can flash ROM and GAPPS zips). I'vet got my ACER CPUID (used ES Explorer app to find it) and my SBK. I've copied zips and MD5s of OmniROM 5.1.1 V11 ROM, its GAPPS and TWRP based recovery REV2.0 beta4 to a MicroSD card which is inside the A500. I've got USB Debugging (and unknown sources) on.
Could someone please give me a good step-by-step guide with working links which describes how can I get from the current state of A500 (stock 4.0.3, unrooted, factory reset made) to the point where I can start flashing zips of recoveries and ROMs (which I know how to do)? I realize that this is an older device but for someone who has spent many hours within the last few days browsing XDA, Tegraforums and other places for information, there seem to be many A500-owners who still in 2015 are doing their first rooting and flashing experiments.
Please help!

I am in the same boat, totally overwhelmed by the information in many different places. My A500 is on 4.0.3 also.
So if someone would help US....I'd really appreciate it.

rampart51 said:
I am in the same boat, totally overwhelmed by the information in many different places. My A500 is on 4.0.3 also.
So if someone would help US....I'd really appreciate it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you folks are all TEGRA OWNERS right? You should definitely check there instead...
Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

You can follow this which i wrote in other forum:
For basic step, follow if you are coming from stock. Make sure you flash all as mentioned in below forum
http://forum.tegraowners.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=363
In that forum, step2,
you can use Touchrecovery mentioned there or from: http://forum.tegraowners.com/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=1490
Also, for latest ROM, use the rom from first post of this forum.
Make sure you have Root access on tab, as well as you check MD5 sum for all file you flush it on the source from where you flush it. Usually, you put your files on microSD so check MD5 sum on MicroSD file.. (if you don't know how to, google it)
Basically, it is boiling down to below steps:
1. you need to root your device.
2. go to your existing recovery and install TWRP recovery. (http://forum.tegraowners.com/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=1490)
3. Once you install, go back to new recovery
4. tap on Partition Format
5. Tap on Storage. (Screen has only one big button)
6. Select Data from left side.
7. Select f2fs from right side.
This will format all your existing data. You will lose everything that you have.
8. Do same for Cache.
9. Reboot back in recovery to make sure that both partitions are formatted as intended.
10. Go back to main menu in recovery
11. Install ROM
12. Install GAAP.
13. Reboot.
14. Thank Thor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I managed to get a Vista laptop so I've been able to get pass the compatibility issues with my Win10 PCs. However, I'm still a little unsure what to do. Could someone please clarify this for me? Can I use the quoted guide to get my A500 4.0.3 unrooted tablet rooted and with a recovery I can use to flash TouchRecovery, OmniROM and GAPPS zips? More specifically, does Step 1 work with 4.0.3 unrooted:
I wanted to write a consolidated tutorial for people on the latest/unrooted 3.2.1 OTA and how to flash it to rooted Jelly Bean ROM. If you follow step 1, it actually installs an old version of Touch Recovery for you, so you do not need to bother with Acer Recovery Installer. All links are derived from the FAQ stickied thread.
1. First you need to obtain root. Follow this guide to install a rooted 3.2.1 image.
[tab=30]All data will be lost. The 10 step guide is included as a PDF in the download:
[tab=30] http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1307539
[tab=30]Confirm you have the Superuser app installed once completed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also found this piece of information from XDA:
Its an old thread used to upgrade you to rooted 3.2.1 -
It can also be used to downgrade/rollback/reset partition table - from ICS BUT there's a slight difference in the steps you need to take to do that...and alot of folks have come to grief here - so for the downgrade -
after running the "test.cmd" which checks the right drivers are installed correctly - run dotnetdetector.exe - follow the instructions UNTIL
You see a window asking you to connect your usb cable and that the EUU will check you "image versions" If you are downgrading DO NOT connect your cable!!!
This will "force" the "cannot detect your Iconia" window and then give instructions to put your tab into "manual apx mode" - once you have done that you can connect your cable - enter your cpuid - then you'll see the green status bar and the "update" will begin - it should take no longer than 10 minutes -
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So which is it? Do I follow the 3.2.1 OTA method as is or do I take into consideration the alternative step to downgrade? Or does the method even work for A500 4.0.3 unrooted?