Question on bootloaders and stock images - Galaxy Tab 10.1 General

I will try to keep this brief... I consider myself pretty knowledgeable when it comes to recovery, flashing roms, etc, etc, the whole rooting thing... blah blah blah.
But when it comes to bootloaders on the GTab 10.1, I have a question regarding flashing these custom ICS/JB roms over the stock 3.2 and 4.0.4 images from sammobile.com
When you push a stock image using Odin, does that image include the boot loader? For instance, if I am running stock 3.2, and I flash an ICS or JB rom, is that running on 3.2 bootloaders? I don't think that is possible, but it seemed to work... is it the case that bootloaders are included in the roms?
Or would it benefit the device's performance to first flash the stock ICS images from sammobile before flashing a custom ICS/JB rom?
I ask because I had flashed pershoot's CM10 preview builds over a 3.2 install... and while they work fine for the most part, there are some bits and pieces that are a bit wonky. For instance, transitions... rather than completely fading into oblivion, most times they just appear to shrink the current viewing area then pop out of sight. I am wondering if this is due to the preview-nature of the builds, or if certain aspects could be improved if bootloaders are able to be flashed with the official stock ICS image.
So much for brevity! I also just realized this may need to go in the Q&A forum, if someone would be kind enough to move it.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

Related

How doi I get to ICS?

In December, when I picked up my TF101, I used Razorclaw + CWM to root it. I also found some kind of an update here that I applied that allowed me to overlock the device .. I believe it was a form of kernel patch?
I would like to go to ICS. I need to be rooted after ICS though, we have a VPN client for our SonicWall firewall that requires the OS to be rooted. I would also prefer an ICS port that supports overclocking like my current build .. it's been incredibly useful to clock up in to the 1400s as it makes everything run so much better.
Is it possible to upgrade to the stock ICS, root it easily and patch it to allow for overclocking at this time? If so, could someone direct me to a guide that shows what the easiest way to do this is, since I already have CWM in (although can't remember how to get it to come up on boot .. doh)?
Thanks =)
Wait till Asus fix the problems.
Yea dont install ICS, it would be like pouring water over your PC
It might seem fun at the time, but its really not a good idea
I would say it is a very bad idea. Avoid it. I did it and literally my tablet is unusable now because of
Slow response
Random rebooted
Random no message crash of apps like gmail.
Dead slow,app response
white screen on app loading
It is now embarrassing infront of ipad users.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
spinaldex said:
In December, when I picked up my TF101, I used Razorclaw + CWM to root it. I also found some kind of an update here that I applied that allowed me to overlock the device .. I believe it was a form of kernel patch?
I would like to go to ICS. I need to be rooted after ICS though, we have a VPN client for our SonicWall firewall that requires the OS to be rooted. I would also prefer an ICS port that supports overclocking like my current build .. it's been incredibly useful to clock up in to the 1400s as it makes everything run so much better.
Is it possible to upgrade to the stock ICS, root it easily and patch it to allow for overclocking at this time? If so, could someone direct me to a guide that shows what the easiest way to do this is, since I already have CWM in (although can't remember how to get it to come up on boot .. doh)?
Thanks =)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ignore the fear mongering posters.
Tons of people are using ICS without issues. But yes, some do experience issues.
Since you have CWM, you can directly flash the pre-rooted stock ICS. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1552303 This is the latest 9.2.1.17 version.
If you want to overclock, you can flash custom ICS ROMs that support overclocking. There's only 2 at the moment, Team EOS and Codename Android.
Frequently updated custom ICS roms such as Team EOS and CM9 tend to be very stable and have fixes that stock ICS doesn't have, so flash a custom ROM instead of the stock ROM if you are concerned about possible issues.
As always, do factory reset + clear cache + clear dalvik cache within CWM before flashing the stock ROM or any custom ROM.
To be safe, I would update your CWM to the latest version here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1213723 before flashing anything.
horndroid said:
Ignore the fear mongering posters.
Tons of people are using ICS without issues. But yes, some do experience issues.
Since you have CWM, you can directly flash the pre-rooted stock ICS. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1552303 This is the latest 9.2.1.17 version.
If you want to overclock, you can flash custom ICS ROMs that support overclocking. There's only 2 at the moment, Team EOS and Codename Android.
Frequently updated custom ICS roms such as Team EOS and CM9 tend to be very stable and have fixes that stock ICS doesn't have, so flash a custom ROM instead of the stock ROM if you are concerned about possible issues.
As always, do factory reset + clear cache + clear dalvik cache within CWM before flashing the stock ROM or any custom ROM.
To be safe, I would update your CWM to the latest version here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1213723 before flashing anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Terrible advise.
Why tell someone to update to an OS that has literally flooded XDA and other forums, and ASUS's facebook page with people saying their TF is no longer usable ?
For the sake of waiting for a working update, why suggest doing something that could very well turn their TF into a buggy POS ?
There is nothing in ICS that is worth the risk
*Detection* said:
Terrible advise.
Why tell someone to update to an OS that has literally flooded XDA and other forums, and ASUS's facebook page with people saying their TF is no longer usable ?
For the sake of waiting for a working update, why suggest doing something that could very well turn their TF into a buggy POS ?
There is nothing in ICS that is worth the risk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are just as many people, probably much much more, who aren't having problems.
Besides, have you tried any custom ROMs? If not, stfu.
I would no say my TF is unusable under ICS.
It works fine, apart from not so random reboots, as it reboots mainly in the morning when I wake it up form the night...
maybe the Sleeping Beauty requires a kiss from the Prince ...
By the way, it used to be really better under HoneyComb, I wish i could have refused that damned firmware upgrade ...
If I were you I'd rather wait as an other poster said for a really proven Stable version from Asus
Nickola
horndroid said:
There are just as many people, probably much much more, who aren't having problems.
Besides, have you tried any custom ROMs? If not, stfu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who the F are you telling to stfu ?
Of course I have tried custom ROMs you doosh, I just prefer to have a stock TF, well, I did until ASUS decided to send out buggy sh**
*Detection* said:
Who the F are you telling to stfu ?
Of course I have tried custom ROMs you doosh, I just prefer to have a stock TF, well, I did until ASUS decided to send out buggy sh**
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are using one of the better custom ICS roms and still having such bad issues, the problem is you and your apps since those AOSP roms aren't even based on Asus's ICS.
The OP has root and CWM, and wants to overclock. So how was it a bad advice to recommend a custom ICS rom?
Just because you are having issues, doesn't mean everyone else will.
I've never had any issues at all and I just got done testing like 5 different ROMs. No issues whatsoever. Probably because I do it correctly and do a full wipe including format /system before I flash anything.
I've got issues on Stock and I did a full wipe using voldn+power method and this was before I rooted. I also lost sound randomly on Stock, and the custom kernels I still get reboots but my sound for the main part does work.
So, if the OP needs their tablet to work correctly then wait, if it's not that important to them and they don't need for day to day tasks then take a chance, you might get lucky or you might be causing yourself a headache, up to you.
horndroid said:
If you are using one of the better custom ICS roms and still having such bad issues, the problem is you and your apps since those AOSP roms aren't even based on Asus's ICS.
The OP has root and CWM, and wants to overclock. So how was it a bad advice to recommend a custom ICS rom?
Just because you are having issues, doesn't mean everyone else will.
I've never had any issues at all and I just got done testing like 5 different ROMs. No issues whatsoever. Probably because I do it correctly and do a full wipe including format /system before I flash anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is the problem me when I am doing everything the "ASUS way" ?
The problem is ASUS and their code.
If you read the OP's actual post, you will see this line
"Is it possible to upgrade to the stock ICS"
And if you want to go even further into it, your line "Probably because I do it correctly and do a full wipe including format /system before I flash anything"
I don't think you can get a cleaner flash than NVFLASH, which is how I always flash my ROMs

Is updated bootloader needed

Hey guys what's up sorry I'm sure there are other threads about this but I haven't been able to find one to answer me directly....is the updated ics sandwich boot loader necessary I was able to flash flexreapers and lightspeed's ics custom rooms without it? So is it really needed does it make it faster update cmw or just allow recovery boot menu and dual boot I'm at a lost on weather its neccesary or not thanks once again
It will be soon, alot of the developers, including Civato, have said they are going to stop development for the HC bootloader. It does significantly improve performance and eliminates most of the glitches on ICS.
And it will make life easier in the future - upgrading the bootloader, etc. straight from CWM among others.
strongergravity said:
And it will make life easier in the future - upgrading the bootloader, etc. straight from CWM among others.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
cruise350 said:
It will be soon, alot of the developers, including Civato, have said they are going to stop development for the HC bootloader. It does significantly improve performance and eliminates most of the glitches on ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright sweet +thanks ;-) I'll update it later then
gears177 said:
Alright sweet +thanks ;-) I'll update it later then
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just stick with whatever custom recovery that is provided with the package you
use...not all features in all recoveries are yet supported.
some are meant only for certain BL's for instance HC3.2 and TWRP
from v4 BL on you are able to flash a zip thru recovery and more fastboot commands are available.
You need to read the change logs for each version as things are being added with each new release.
One thing i am certain of and that is if you are having ANY weird issues, sod, wifi OFF, nvflash issues then what seems to settle everything down is a rollback to HC - I think alot of us myself included, never flashed the right thing at the right time when first upgrading to ICS (and at some future point ending up with a "freakenstein" not one thing or the other and not working all that well either) when you start running a "compatible system" i.e kernel, bootloader, recovery, rom all working as they should, then things look and work a whole heccuvalot better!!!
I will not support HC bootloader for the Overclocking kernel for ICS.
To much problems. So expect no OC support for my rom if you stay on HC bootloader.

Unlocked Bootloader v8 / ICS - SoDs

I had zero issues with SoD running HC roms and HC bootloader. I have serious issues with ICS roms and the unlocked bootloaders. Here is what i have tried:
First tried v3 unlocked bootloader with Thors recovery and CM9 alpha rom. I had many issues with SoDs everytime the screen went off it seems like it SoD. That was the original issue. I recently just tried 3 different recoveries including twrp/ezterry/thors and used all 3 to do full wipes. I installed ezterrys ICS rom. I am getting less SoD..maybe 1 per day but they still persist. Does anyone have any ideas what im doing wrong? Am i the only one with these issues? Its not an app causing this either as I have run with both roms on the base w/o installing any apps and the SoD still persists. Anyone have any experience with this and can enlighten me?
droidroidz said:
I had zero issues with SoD running HC roms and HC bootloader. I have serious issues with ICS roms and the unlocked bootloaders. Here is what i have tried:
First tried v3 unlocked bootloader with Thors recovery and CM9 alpha rom. I had many issues with SoDs everytime the screen went off it seems like it SoD. That was the original issue. I recently just tried 3 different recoveries including twrp/ezterry/thors and used all 3 to do full wipes. I installed ezterrys ICS rom. I am getting less SoD..maybe 1 per day but they still persist. Does anyone have any ideas what im doing wrong? Am i the only one with these issues? Its not an app causing this either as I have run with both roms on the base w/o installing any apps and the SoD still persists. Anyone have any experience with this and can enlighten me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had sod on any rom (and stock) with changed bootloader (and other problems). Went back to ota stock without root. No problems
I have SoD since going from thors rom back to taboonay and then to V8 bootloader, still trying to solve the issue but no luck. I can't even connect to pc to root it again as I've lost that too
Any of you running a 501?
If so, it's an issue with the kernel.
MD
a500 here
Moscow Desire said:
Any of you running a 501?
If so, it's an issue with the kernel.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Using A500
I see so many others with success which is why its killing me that this is not more common issue. There must be something we are doing slightly wrong or forgot to do causing this.
Ok, here is the real deal.
1. ICS Bootloader. Mandatory. Check it when you boot, it should say in the left corner.
2. Recovery version has no effect on SOD. However, you should have the correct one for ICS. Currently I use 1.7.3.
3. The kernel. Now, most of the ICS Roms in the forum for the 500 have a "tweaked kernel". These are the ones you want to use. MAKE SURE the rom you are using is for the patched ICS Bootloader. This includes EZTerry's and Civatos. You have to pay attention with Civ's as he may still have some designed for HC bootloader. YOU DO NOT WANT THESE. I believe Smaury's and Vache's are ok also, but check first.
4. This is probably where the problem is. Wipes and Formats. Sometimes, leftover code from a previous kernel or modules could still possibly be in the tab. This can cause strange issues.
Wipe
Data/factory reset
Cache
Dalvik Cache
(depending on recovery version)
Format System
Format Flexrom
Do this 2 or 3 times, then install the rom.
I use CWM 1.7.3 recovery (too lazy now to change but will in the future)
Also, if you have any doubt which bootloader you currently have, download AcerRecoveryInstaller and it should tell you. After OTA in the Dev forum will also tell you. You don't have to do anything with the app, just start it to get information.
This should get you going.
MD
I have two A500's, both with V8 bootloader and the latest flexreaper rom. One doesn't SOD, the other has constant SOD's. I'm beginning to think it's the hardware. Mine were purchased about 6 months apart, maybe different hardware revisions?
riot1031 said:
I have two A500's, both with V8 bootloader and the latest flexreaper rom. One doesn't SOD, the other has constant SOD's. I'm beginning to think it's the hardware. Mine were purchased about 6 months apart, maybe different hardware revisions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is some good info! I am pulling my hair our here! As far as what MD suggested I have done all those steps...multiple times with 3 different recoveries wiping everything i can. Do you happen to remember when you purchased them? I bought mine from newegg 8.16.2011
riot1031 said:
I have two A500's, both with V8 bootloader and the latest flexreaper rom. One doesn't SOD, the other has constant SOD's. I'm beginning to think it's the hardware. Mine were purchased about 6 months apart, maybe different hardware revisions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know, you just added some insight into a theory I've been tossing in my head. Although I thought this was only a51x and a70x based. I didn't know it might be effecting the 50x as well.
Let me run this at you. With the 51x and 70x, the bootloaders seem to be matched to the specific version of ICS installed from factory. (COMGen, version number, etc). We know this, as the bootloaders on several tabs have different naming conventions. It's why certain root methods will not work on some tabs. Currently we have 3 methods, but 1 requires CWM (and our current version will brick the tab if you use the restore option..../data is what bricks).
It's possible, that with ICS, certain kernels are required to function properly on the 500 also. We all know with ICS, the kernel communicated a lot with the bootloader. This "may" be associated with some obscure part of the hardware as well. This I don't know. But with the newer tabs, it definately seems to be hardware software related. Some Roms just WILL NOT run on some tabs.
Now for you guys, here is what I might try. Different kernels. Try running a stock kernel for that specific build number. Or if you haven't tried it yet, try running EZ_Terry's OC kernel built form source. See if you still get SOD.
Just something to try.
MD
Moscow Desire said:
You know, you just added some insight into a theory I've been tossing in my head. Although I thought this was only a51x and a70x based. I didn't know it might be effecting the 50x as well.
Let me run this at you. With the 51x and 70x, the bootloaders seem to be matched to the specific version of ICS installed from factory. (COMGen, version number, etc). We know this, as the bootloaders on several tabs have different naming conventions. It's why certain root methods will not work on some tabs. Currently we have 3 methods, but 1 requires CWM (and our current version will brick the tab if you use the restore option..../data is what bricks).
It's possible, that with ICS, certain kernels are required to function properly on the 500 also. We all know with ICS, the kernel communicated a lot with the bootloader. This "may" be associated with some obscure part of the hardware as well. This I don't know. But with the newer tabs, it definately seems to be hardware software related. Some Roms just WILL NOT run on some tabs.
Now for you guys, here is what I might try. Different kernels. Try running a stock kernel for that specific build number. Or if you haven't tried it yet, try running EZ_Terry's OC kernel built form source. See if you still get SOD.
Just something to try.
MD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is an interesting theory and makes sense. In my case with CM9 and Ezterry's rom I have tried the stock kernel for each and ezterry's OC kernel on both...and still SoDs although ezterrys rom/kernel seems to be far less frequest SoDs. We don't have much options for kernels around here.
Progress?
Has anyone made any progress with figuring this out?
My tablet was running fine on a stock, rooted ICS. Then I installed custom recovery, different kernel, and bootloader when I tried JellyBean (ROM | WIP | CM10 JellyBean 4.1.2 Unofficial for acer a500 [Build 3]) from the Developers forum on here. I started getting SoDs and some of my games weren't running, so I went back to the ICS rom, but the SoDs are still happening. At that point, I was pretty sure it was related to the kernel or the bootloader.
On the "ROM | WIP | CM10 JellyBean 4.1.2 Unofficial for acer a500 [Build 3]" thread in the developers section they are questioning if the SoD is related to CyanogenMod (which I don't believe it is). I wanted to post there about what this thread is hypothesizing, but am unable to post to that thread (too new to XDA).
Update
I went ahead and went back to full stock ICS (bootloader, kernel, etc). Then rooted it again.
The disappearing icon issues have gone away.
Now I'm not sure if I should just stick with it like that or venture out into Jelly Bean land again...
Waleslie said:
I went ahead and went back to full stock ICS (bootloader, kernel, etc). Then rooted it again.
The disappearing icon issues have gone away.
Now I'm not sure if I should just stick with it like that or venture out into Jelly Bean land again...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Venturing out to JB land is a choice.
Although CM does a pretty good job of doing things, I always have to remember, they lean toward mainstream devices.
We 50x owners, have some pretty good guys. But, we only have a few, compared to the mainstream devices, which have a whole lot more. Welcome to the tablet world.
If it were a samsung or Asus, would probably have a ton more.
But, my ICS on my 501 runs pretty darn good. And I'm thankful to each and every dev and cook who strive to make it better. It's a pity there are not more for our device.
SOD will always plague us it seems. A lot seems to depend on the revision hardware. Seems the earlier versions don't get it much.
MD
droidroidz said:
This is some good info! I am pulling my hair our here! As far as what MD suggested I have done all those steps...multiple times with 3 different recoveries wiping everything i can. Do you happen to remember when you purchased them? I bought mine from newegg 8.16.2011
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same problem as you and 8/10/2011 is when I got mine. I have had some version of hc to work with no sod, but tried everthing and every combination out there (with the mod bootloader) and still have sod, so just went back to stock.

[Q] Want a stable ICS...Do I need to unlock the bootloader

I am currently running Thor's Tegraownder JB Rom v14 and its nice but not very stable. I'm looking for a nice light fast ROM and I decided maybe it might be time to head back to XDA after using Thor's ROMs for a while now.
Looking through the XDA forums I feel completely lost. I see lots of talk about honeycomb and ICS bootloaders but I have no idea what I need to do to run the latest and greatest ROMs. I'm already able to flash ROMs since i'm also running Thor's Recovery so can I flash any ROM from XDA without doing anything else or do I have to load the ICS bootloader?
I'm not a stranger to rooting but I don't recognize any of this. Can someone explain that these things are?
CPUid
APX
SBK
I guess long story short how do I get from Thor's JB ROM with Thor's custom recovery to a stable ICS or JB Rom that is fast and stable? Any help would be appreciated.

Stock JB unlock and custom recovery considerations

First of all, I like to share I am not a stranger with rooting, flashing, granting bootloader access (not an tablets, but on HTC an SE WM phones in the past (assuming the S-off/S-on switching is somewhat comparable)). Despite not being a stranger, I am no whizzkid either, it's just that I am able to read instructions well, re-read them and carefully follow the instructions step by step. During the process I have reasonable understanding of what I am doing, but I am not someone that could have 'invented' such workflows and adjustments myself.
So, what is new for me? Installing a custom recovery. I haven't done that before. No problem, because I know there are enough techs on XDA that have the great quality to share their knowledge, something I appreciate very much and use regularly.
My story:
Asus created a situation in which you have to register your device and actively decline your warranty, whenever you want to unlock the bootloader. This is why I didn't do that yet. Now, having my TF300 for almost 6 months, reasonably comfortable with the feeling there will be no issues to need the warranty, I am willing to unlock my bootloader and void my warranty. However, shortly after the JB OTA I read a lot of messages that this was not possible with a TF300 on JB. Later I read it might be possible, but that changing the bootloader was not possible. Then I read this was possible too, but you could only install roms based on official Asus JB OTA.
Well... I guess things have evolved since the initial JB OTA, but I am not sure that I understood things well enough to just give it a try (yet). So I am looking for confirmation and a bit more in depth info. First I will summarize my TF300's history in detail and things I found so far regarding custom recovery. In this way you know what the situation is and I also hope this post becomes 'informative' for other TF300 owners too, besides being a question topic for me only.
Ok, what do I have:
- An original TF300T (no dock), bought in June 2012 with stock ICS
- Granted myself root access via 1-Click Transformer Root
- All original Asus OTA's applied, including the upgrade to JB (and succeeding OTA's)
- Still have root (kept root during all OTA's, including upgrade to JB with help from Voodoo OTA rootkeeper)
- Recently wiped/factory reset my device (still have root)
What I used in the past, but currently not running on the tablet:
- Used different Custom build.props on ICS and JB, but now have stock build.prop again
- Used SwitchMe profile manager (still want it, but waiting on decision to possibly unlock/install custom recovery first)
- Used browser2ram (don't want to need it anymore, but ability to boost performance with a custom rom will be a requirement)
What custom recovery options did I see? There are 3 of them and all seem to be safe with the TF300 JB OTA:
- TWRP 2.3.1.0
- CWM 6.0.1.3 / 5.5.0.4 (don't know why it has 2 version numbers... ICS and JB version?)
- Clockworkmod 6.0.1.4 Touch (same as CWM 6.0.1.3 but with touch functionality?)
Ok, what do I want confirmed to be sure enough to give it a shot on my TF300 without bricking?
- Is it possible to use official Asus unlock tool on a stock OTA JB TF300? If possible:
- Are above mentioned custom recovery options indeed safe to run on a (unlocked) stock OTA JB TF300? If safe:
- What is (technical) the best custom recovery option? Or are the mentioned options mostly identical and is it a matter of personal preference?
- Can I run any roms after installing a custom recovery or am I restricted to roms based on official Asus JB?
- What will happen with root access after (if possible) installing a custom recovery? And after installing a custom rom?
These are my major 'need to knows' before I dare....
Besides this information, I am curious if someone can confirm my representation of (or explain) the different parts in Android/Asus installation and how it is affected by a custom recovery. During reading along the forums, I have created this visualization of the different parts of the system:
1. Bootloader or kernel (first thing on system, somewhat comparable with a PC BIOS? Are the terms bootloader and kernel interchangeable?)
2. Asus recovery/boot options or custom recovery (custom recovery replace the standard Asus recovery/boot options, I assume)
3. Android (stock JB/ICS or custom rom)
Is this a correct representation?
Well, that was all... Hopefully my post didn't become a TLDR and some of you are willing to help me out. I am very thankful in advance!
1. Bootloader is something else then a kernel. You just have to have the right kernel for the 2 different bootloader
2. Boot options are in the bootloader. Stock Recovery has no options.
3. dont understand your question
1st if you are still on ICS I would recommend to use NVflash and create the needed NVflash files. After that your tablet is nearly unbrickable and you are able to NVflash back to the ICS bootloader (my opinion not so importent anymore, caus even CM is now compatible with the JB Bootloader)
2nd If you are still on ICS I would use the unlock app on ICS not on JB and would then flash the JB update.
The Custom Recovery is best right now would be TWRP 2.2. Its the only one with no known issues.
Hope that helps a little and hope that my explanations are correct, because I am just a flasher like you
Last but not least. The best ROMs out there in my opinion are the Clean Rom 2.5 for the TF700 with clemsyns Kernel and BlueAndroid V.1.0.
Thank you for your reply, it helps me a bit. Unfortunately it doesn't answer my major questions, but I don't blame you (not at all). Every bit of help is welcome.
mikaole said:
1. Bootloader is something else then a kernel. You just have to have the right kernel for the 2 different bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok... clear... but then.. what is a kernel...? (*feeling noob*)
mikaole said:
2. Boot options are in the bootloader. Stock Recovery has no options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, so what happens if I install a custom recovery? Does it replace the bootloader with a different one that includes recovery options? Or does it add recovery options to the existing bootloader?
mikaole said:
3. dont understand your question
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The numbers (1, 2 and 3) were the 'layers' I imagined on how Android is build up from boot to OS, where 3 being the final layer (Android OS presented to the user on screen).
mikaole said:
1st if you are still on ICS I would recommend to use NVflash and create the needed NVflash files. After that your tablet is nearly unbrickable and you are able to NVflash back to the ICS bootloader (my opinion not so importent anymore, caus even CM is now compatible with the JB Bootloader)
2nd If you are still on ICS I would use the unlock app on ICS not on JB and would then flash the JB update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the point why I started this topic, I am on (stock OTA) JB already. If I was still on ICS, I would have had the guts to unlock and install custom recovery. I am hesitating because I read about issues with JB and unlocking/installing custom recovery.
mikaole said:
The Custom Recovery is best right now would be TWRP 2.2. Its the only one with no known issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the tip, I will keep this in mind.
mikaole said:
Hope that helps a little and hope that my explanations are correct, because I am just a flasher like you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
*shakes hands* Yes, it helped a bit.
mikaole said:
Last but not least. The best ROMs out there in my opinion are the Clean Rom 2.5 for the TF700 with clemsyns Kernel and BlueAndroid V.1.0.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, I will consider this when I am ready to search for custom roms.
@all: Is there someone out there that can (and is willing to) answer my 'major' questions? I will re-post them below:
Ok, what do I want confirmed to be sure enough to give it a shot on my TF300 without bricking?
- Is it possible to use official Asus unlock tool on a stock OTA JB TF300? If possible:
- Are above mentioned custom recovery options indeed safe to run on a (unlocked) stock OTA JB TF300? If safe:
- What is (technical) the best custom recovery option? Or are the mentioned options mostly identical and is it a matter of personal preference?
- Can I run any roms after installing a custom recovery or am I restricted to roms based on official Asus JB?
- What will happen with root access after (if possible) installing a custom recovery? And after installing a custom rom?
Ok, what do I want confirmed to be sure enough to give it a shot on my TF300 without bricking?
- Is it possible to use official Asus unlock tool on a stock OTA JB TF300? If possible:
- Are above mentioned custom recovery options indeed safe to run on a (unlocked) stock OTA JB TF300? If safe:
- What is (technical) the best custom recovery option? Or are the mentioned options mostly identical and is it a matter of personal preference?
- Can I run any roms after installing a custom recovery or am I restricted to roms based on official Asus JB?
- What will happen with root access after (if possible) installing a custom recovery? And after installing a custom rom?
Yes the unlock tool works on JB as well as ICS. I used it while on JB.
Recovery choose one for JB since you have said you were on JB. In fact that is how you will determine which roms you can use as well (JB).
There have been many complaints posted about problems with CWM on this device.
Safe is something I can't answer - twrp itself appears to be safe but that is relative.
One mistake can usually be overcome (or one weird issue); add a mistake to that and you are out at two strikes with this unit most of the time. That is the way I see it after reading hundreds of posts.
You must have recovery, adb, or fastboot working to recover from a problem with this unit.
Before you make any changes make sure adb and fastboot work.
When you flash a rom make sure early in the game you turn on usb debugging in developer options. Learn to get into and use the bootloader menu for adb, fastboot, and recovery access. This would be with both stock recovery and twrp.
Custom roms are usually by default rooted. With a custom recovery you can flash root at will.
It is long but I feel I touched on each of your questions, if not ask.
If your phone is a ferrari, the kernel is the "driver" ... the kernel you use can be tweaked to allow you to overclock your process. By default, overclocking is not possible (usually) on stock kernels because phone makers don't want you effing up your phone.
Other kernels can let you run "low voltage" or "ultra low voltage" settings for the processor. This allows you to send less power to the processor but still get the same amount of oomph out. The result is greater battery life, and no cost to performance. Obviously this can be dangerous to some hardware... so be careful and know what you're doing. It can be as bad as damaging hardware, or as minor as getting your phone stuck in a boot loop. DO A BACKUP with Rom Manager before installing a kernel. Always do a backup before you do anything to your phone.
moisaal said:
If your phone is a ferrari, the kernel is the "driver" ... the kernel you use can be tweaked to allow you to overclock your process. By default, overclocking is not possible (usually) on stock kernels because phone makers don't want you effing up your phone.
Other kernels can let you run "low voltage" or "ultra low voltage" settings for the processor. This allows you to send less power to the processor but still get the same amount of oomph out. The result is greater battery life, and no cost to performance. Obviously this can be dangerous to some hardware... so be careful and know what you're doing. It can be as bad as damaging hardware, or as minor as getting your phone stuck in a boot loop. DO A BACKUP with Rom Manager before installing a kernel. Always do a backup before you do anything to your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
tobdaryl said:
Ok, what do I want confirmed to be sure enough to give it a shot on my TF300 without bricking?
- Is it possible to use official Asus unlock tool on a stock OTA JB TF300? If possible:
- Are above mentioned custom recovery options indeed safe to run on a (unlocked) stock OTA JB TF300? If safe:
- What is (technical) the best custom recovery option? Or are the mentioned options mostly identical and is it a matter of personal preference?
- Can I run any roms after installing a custom recovery or am I restricted to roms based on official Asus JB?
- What will happen with root access after (if possible) installing a custom recovery? And after installing a custom rom?
Yes the unlock tool works on JB as well as ICS. I used it while on JB.
Recovery choose one for JB since you have said you were on JB. In fact that is how you will determine which roms you can use as well (JB).
There have been many complaints posted about problems with CWM on this device.
Safe is something I can't answer - twrp itself appears to be safe but that is relative.
One mistake can usually be overcome (or one weird issue); add a mistake to that and you are out at two strikes with this unit most of the time. That is the way I see it after reading hundreds of posts.
You must have recovery, adb, or fastboot working to recover from a problem with this unit.
Before you make any changes make sure adb and fastboot work.
When you flash a rom make sure early in the game you turn on usb debugging in developer options. Learn to get into and use the bootloader menu for adb, fastboot, and recovery access. This would be with both stock recovery and twrp.
Custom roms are usually by default rooted. With a custom recovery you can flash root at will.
It is long but I feel I touched on each of your questions, if not ask.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for this clear answer. Allow me to summarize your answer (actually it is a confirmation request to see if I fully understand your answer):
- Asus unlock tool is working fine on JB, no problems
- Since my TF300 is on JB and to stay on the safe side (no guaranties) your advice is to use TWRP 2.3.1.0 for JB (to use the JB version is obvious for me, thanks for confirming)
- Once these steps are done (unlock and custom recovery) , I can flash roms at will, but have to keep in mind to use JB-based roms
Did I summarize (and thus understand) your answer correct?
Thanks for pointing out to have adb and fastboot working before making changes and to learn to get into and use bootloader menu for adb, fastboot and recovery access (with both stock recovery and twrp). I am very much aware of this, but it is always wise to make that clear to anyone whom wants to play with this stuff.
You helped me very much! To be complete sure, I'll wait for confirmation, but then I have more than enough confidence to give it a go (Yes, I will beware it won't exaggerate into over-confidence and I become sloppy . I'll stay punctual and cautious during the process.).
moisaal said:
If your phone is a ferrari, the kernel is the "driver" ... the kernel you use can be tweaked to allow you to overclock your process. By default, overclocking is not possible (usually) on stock kernels because phone makers don't want you effing up your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I see the kernel somewhat equal to the bios on a pc, or is that a misinterpretation?
If I understood it correct, then it is not fully comparable to a pc bios, as on Android the kernel also determines which version of Android is able to run on your device (ICS needs another kernel than JB), right?
ralph075 said:
Can I see the kernel somewhat equal to the bios on a pc, or is that a misinterpretation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BIOS (basic input-output system, or something along those lines) is loaded before the kernel! They are different. The kernel acts as a mediator between hardware and software.
Trimis de pe Motorola Defy
vap_66 said:
BIOS (basic input-output system, or something along those lines) is loaded before the kernel! They are different. The kernel acts as a mediator between hardware and software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for clarifying. I found this article and read it to learn more... (I had a few questions again, but realized that there probably would be something to read in here that could answer those questions too... )
Did I summarize (and thus understand) your answer correct?
Yes that is correct.
tobdaryl said:
Did I summarize (and thus understand) your answer correct?
Yes that is correct.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again, now the challenge is to find some spare time this weekend
ralph075 said:
Thanks again, now the challenge is to find some spare time this weekend
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Click to collapse
Good Luck!
Go slow and enjoy your new tab.
tobdaryl said:
Good Luck!
Go slow and enjoy your new tab.
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Click to collapse
Thank you. Well, slow it will go, as last weekend didn't have any spare time...
Hopefully I will experience my new tab soon...
ralph075 said:
Thank you. Well, slow it will go, as last weekend didn't have any spare time...
Hopefully I will experience my new tab soon...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're very welcome.
Yes, it seems time to play is sporadic and limited.
Life would probably be very boring if we always had time.

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