Related
I have a Nook Simple Touch. I purchased it approximately a month ago. That would be September 2012.
I want to check out Library books.
I use Linux. Zenwalk 7.0
Overdrive seems to only work with Adobe Digital Edition. (cough) Windows or MAC.
ADE has DRMs.
B&N don't allow the installation of Overdrive App. Sideloading don't work etc.
So I wanted to root my nook.
I rooted my nook with noogie.img and tried it with touchnooter which I liked better.
Everything was working great. I accessed my Email. Just started checking it out. Started to install Opera Mini, when the public wifi where I was at shut down for the night.
Next morning I start up my nook again on public wifi; apparently from what I understand from other forums and threads is that nook automatically updates. B&N have decided Nook ST doesn't need or deserve Overdrive. Despite there terms of usage which say you can surf the net with Nook they lie. So their latest update blocked all my wifi.
I have restored to factory stock. Lost all my books and my ability to use my Nook at all because I can't access the internet because B&N reroute me to a page that tells my all my wifi is blocked.
I have formatted the noogie. img sd card and added bravo_update.dat. Followed all the directions here. Restoring WiFi Config @ nookDevs.com/tips and tricks]
Would appreciate any help I could get.
Thank you in advance.
I cant help with restoring your Nook, but when you do -
I download with Overdrive, then remove the DRMS using ePub DRM Removal or Epubor DRM Removal.
there are also other DRM removal programs out there.
DRM removal
Dear Ladykayaker,
I'm not looking to remove the DRMs. Though eventually I may be, LOL. I respect my library. I respect the copyrights of the authors.
My problem is I don't want left out of the party. Just because I use Linux. I shouldn't be left out of Overdrive. Just because I bought the cheapest Nook because of the long battery life, ease of reading the pages, cost effectiveness etc.; doesn't mean that I don't want to use the library.
However this thread is about getting my Nook working.
Perhaps I'll start another thread about Overdrive and Linux but I'm not sure that this website is the proper place to do that.
I really appreciate your feedback though Ladykayaker.
Still working on getting my NOOK working.
Today I'm going to try SalsichaNooter.
Thanks,
dandielionous
dandielionous said:
B&N have decided Nook ST doesn't need or deserve Overdrive. Despite there terms of usage which say you can surf the net with Nook they lie.
...I can't access the internet because B&N reroute me to a page that tells my all my wifi is blocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK, B&N never said that you could browse with the NST.
This sounds like a problem with whichever WiFi you are using, not B&N.
The OverDrive through Adobe Digital Editions uses different DRM than the OverDrive app on the Nook.
I use both, but you are limited to the respective readers unless you strip DRM.
Overdrive, Linux, Nook ST and Me
Wow, lots of good stuff here.
First:
ladykyaker maybe I should have listened to you better. Okay I'm going to do work on stripping DRMs
Second: Renate NST I appreciate your information that Nook and Adobe Digital Edition use two different DRM.
Next: Renate NST I have no idea what AFAIK stands for. If you're trying to say some version of FYI that I would understand. SO... FYI for you Renate.
NOOK™ TERMS OF SERVICE
These Terms of Service (this "Agreement") is a legally binding agreement made by and between Barnes & Noble, Inc. ("we," "us," or "our") and you regarding your use of your NOOK™ eReader ("NOOK").
THIS AGREEMENT SETS FORTH THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS APPLICABLE TO THE USE OF YOUR NOOK, SO PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY BEFORE USING YOUR NOOK. BY USING YOUR NOOK, YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THIS AGREEMENT. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO BE SO BOUND, YOU MUST RETURN YOUR NOOK AND RELATED SOFTWARE AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 1(b) BELOW.
1. Using Your NOOK.
(a) Your NOOK, the Service and Digital Content. Your NOOK is an electronic device that is designed to allow you to read digitized electronic content such as eBooks and digital periodicals ("Digital Content"). Your NOOK is also designed to connect wirelessly to the Internet to enable you to browse, preview, search for, purchase and download Digital Content; access the Barnes & Noble.com Web Site (the "Web Site") and other web sites; interface with social networking sites; and access, use, and participate in other services, features, functions and promotions (all features described in this sentence, collectively, the "Service"). Your NOOK also allows you to load and access your own content onto the device for your personal use ("Sideloaded Content").
Now I don't know what that means to you Renate but to me that means I can use my Nook to connect wirelessly to the internet. That I can browse, preview, search for, puchase and download Digital Content, interface with social networking sites and access, use and participate in other services features, functions and promotions.
Now this is a 144 page document so I'm sure they have a legal way out of it. B & N does offer Overdrive for the tablet and the Nook Color but not for the simple touch. Oh BTW at the end of that 144 page document are special conditions for AT&T customers.
However, I don't want to argue over this.
I was hoping for intelligent feedback about my Nook. As far as I am concerned this thread is over. I will start a new thread about Overdrive and another thread about Rooting my Nook then perhaps there won't be so much confusion.
Thanks for the help.
dandielionous
P.S.
Ya'll can do what you want with this thread. I'm not responding here anymore.
Oh 1 more thing. It says clearly on the web page I am being blocked by B&N.
Also I am using public wifi. So no matter where I go I can't access the wifi with the Nook or I couldn't. I have solved that problem.
I hope you have put a little more thought and research Renate into those other 855 posts you've responded to.
Sorry, AFAIK means "as far as I know".
You get credit for reading the whole legalese, I didn't.
I would really appreciate a screenshot of this screen saying that B&N is blocking you.
AFAIK, nobody has ever reported this.
Hello Guys,
before I start: My apologies for this, I am not quite sure if I am even in the right Topic.
I think of myself as pretty new to Android, but got some experiences in Rooting, Custom Roms and such. But that is already as far as it gets.
Now my Problem: We lost our BES and now my Company decided to go with Android (SG4 I9505) and I have to make it happen :angel:.
1. I Need some Kind of Freeware tool to administer Android Devices (Basic: find device, delete data, restrict Apps)
2. If something like this dont exist (which I dont think-I just havent found it)), I would Need to know if I can use CM 10.2 as our Standard Rom and before you start rolling your eyes with experimental and such....
I have to restrict the phone solely to Telefone, Exchange and some preselected (mostly travel)Tools. NO GAPPS!!! and I think that nightly CM provides this with no problems
To realize this I downloaded the nightly from 18th, I think. I then added some APK´s into \System\app Folder and installed the ROM. This actually worked fine until I updated to phone afterwards via build in updating tool - all Tools were gone.(what did I miss?)
Now, our Standard is SG4 I-9505.
Any ideas on how I could do this? (I couldnt find what I was looking for)
1. Adminster a fleet of androids (free)
2. Customize a Custom ROM for corporate Identity (How to pre-setup Exchange Boot Logo, Lockscreen, etc.)
3. or customize a ROM to the Point it cannot do much except what is in the \System\app Folder and turn off updates
Any link is much appreciated. Sadly there is sooooo much andoid articles out there that I seem to get lost while searching for the right one. Thanks in advance!!!!
AccEss-dEniEd said:
1. Adminster a fleet of androids (free)
2. Customize a Custom ROM for corporate Identity (How to pre-setup Exchange Boot Logo, Lockscreen, etc.)
3. or customize a ROM to the Point it cannot do much except what is in the \System\app Folder and turn off updates
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My guess is I'll get flamed for saying this - but here goes.
Android corporate (MDM) leaves a lot to be desired next to iOS, at least as far as I've been able to find. We manage a lot of iPads and obviously minus the custom ROM we've been able to do it all for little to no cost. We've shied away from Android a lot because of the limited MDM control.
But, since you asked:
1. Meraki Systems Manager (and the accompanying app from Google Play)
2. Good luck with that
3. See number 2
I think the reality is you're going to need to do something to the effect of either cook your own ROM and deploy it or use a tool like CWM to create an "image" that you would then restore to the devices. I did that with a batch of 60+ Nexus 7s and it worked out pretty well.
Edit:
With all that said - I would urge your management to reconsider their approach as the world has changed since Blackberry was the only game in town. Yes, still stick with MDM, device location, remote wipe etc. But unless you're dealing with highly sensitive information (exp banking), let people actually USE the device you're giving them. Don't lock it down to where its basically a first generation iPhone. I'm a big fan of giving someone a good tool and letting them use it the way that works best for them, while still keeping the device and more importantly the data under corporate control.
Assuming you have Exchange, does this not provide the management part?
AccEss-dEniEd said:
Hello Guys,
before I start: My apologies for this, I am not quite sure if I am even in the right Topic.
I think of myself as pretty new to Android, but got some experiences in Rooting, Custom Roms and such. But that is already as far as it gets.
Now my Problem: We lost our BES and now my Company decided to go with Android (SG4 I9505) and I have to make it happen :angel:.
1. I Need some Kind of Freeware tool to administer Android Devices (Basic: find device, delete data, restrict Apps)
2. If something like this dont exist (which I dont think-I just havent found it)), I would Need to know if I can use CM 10.2 as our Standard Rom and before you start rolling your eyes with experimental and such....
I have to restrict the phone solely to Telefone, Exchange and some preselected (mostly travel)Tools. NO GAPPS!!! and I think that nightly CM provides this with no problems
To realize this I downloaded the nightly from 18th, I think. I then added some APK´s into \System\app Folder and installed the ROM. This actually worked fine until I updated to phone afterwards via build in updating tool - all Tools were gone.(what did I miss?)
Now, our Standard is SG4 I-9505.
Any ideas on how I could do this? (I couldnt find what I was looking for)
1. Adminster a fleet of androids (free)
2. Customize a Custom ROM for corporate Identity (How to pre-setup Exchange Boot Logo, Lockscreen, etc.)
3. or customize a ROM to the Point it cannot do much except what is in the \System\app Folder and turn off updates
Any link is much appreciated. Sadly there is sooooo much andoid articles out there that I seem to get lost while searching for the right one. Thanks in advance!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently work in the infrastructure of a good sized corporation. We're using IOS with a mixture of android hardware and there's some good news and bad news for what you want to do.
Good news is, like Jpcurrie said, exchange will handle remote wiping and locking the phone down. you can require the phone to use a PIN, remote wipe and and a bit more. As for locating the phone, Google actually has finally built in remote locating of your device and remote wipe as well. There's a couple good apps out there (lookout) will turn on your GPS and allow you to locate the phone and they're free. If you happen to have a virtualized environment with VMware, you could also use VMware View Horizons which builds in a secure sector on the phone and you can remotely manage which apps and files the user can use. the best part of View is you can use a BYOD model and keep corporate data secure. The biggest issue is if you don't happen to already use a VMware architecture it gets pricey quickly.
Here's the rub now. you want to install your own logos on the bootup which you could do by installing a custom ROM. This will void your warranty on the hardware and as it isn't 100% stable you'll be spending a LOT of time trying to keep a consistent environment.
Like netsyd said, talk to management about an MDM, and the branding of the devices, maybe even talk to them about using a BYOD to reduce costs of hardware and administration of that hardware.
Isn´t Knox supposed to allow administrators to only delete the data that belongs to the Corporate account (emails, calendars, tasks, etc.), or an administrator can still force a full device wipe? Sorry if the questions is too basic, I've tried searching around for info on Knox but couldn't find anything besides press releases.
I'm not a network administrator, I'm just a user and my school secure wifi installs a device administrator.
I'm sorry to deviate the topic a little bit from the original.
At Delta we use Air Watch but it's far from free. You can however manage devices and remote wipe. You can also view installed apps and remove what should not be there. Options for device profiles also. I help maintain these devices everyday. Not Free but an MDM is your best bet.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
long time - no see
Hiya,
sorry I didn t answer - kinda was overwhelmed with this Task.
Wanted still to thank you: I did what you suggestet and wanted to let you know where I am now.
1. Meraki = implemented - now runnning 160+ devices. (at no costs)
2. CM12.1 implemented (without GAPPS/no SU)
3. Standard Image/w Apps defined. (Mostly Offline capable Tools like "here" etc.(which actually reduced costs))
4. Since Android has limited capability to be administered in a "real" professional Fashion we mitigated this issue by creating a policy to forbid the user to temper with the device (e.g. Installation of Software/SU etc) yet to allow the Installation of Software manually by us via creating a ticket. We check the Software mainly for "sanity" and malware and install it if ok.
This has been working so far like a charm for us. None of the user were happy to loose the Gapps obviously - but once they had their Software and settled in, all was ok. For the Administering part: Meraki can tell me if Software is beeing installed without our Knowledge, also we see if SM doesnt speak with us anymore. So, for now, we got the most out of the System and I am happy to say: I got minimal Control in a Quality sense. No no more "KO Critera" - and we have implemented Android. Tracking etc. is forbidden in Germany anyway - so we use Meraki mainly to wipe if lost and to check if someone goes against policy.
What is still open:
- I am still working on a way to have the user enter his credentials and automatically enter These in all respective config files. (haven't had much luck - with the absense of SU obviously.
- a Little cosmetics still open (I am still trying to figure out how the theming really works ... I usually f**k up the Pictures and sounds.... but so far making Progress
- with less and less good Android devices coming out (now, I am probably beeing flamed now ) that suits our needs (open bootloader, known/supported CPUs, removable battery, SD Card Slot) - I think we might Switch by Q4/2016.
netsyd said:
My guess is I'll get flamed for saying this - but here goes.
Android corporate (MDM) leaves a lot to be desired next to iOS, at least as far as I've been able to find. We manage a lot of iPads and obviously minus the custom ROM we've been able to do it all for little to no cost. We've shied away from Android a lot because of the limited MDM control.
But, since you asked:
1. Meraki Systems Manager (and the accompanying app from Google Play)
2. Good luck with that
3. See number 2
I think the reality is you're going to need to do something to the effect of either cook your own ROM and deploy it or use a tool like CWM to create an "image" that you would then restore to the devices. I did that with a batch of 60+ Nexus 7s and it worked out pretty well.
Edit:
With all that said - I would urge your management to reconsider their approach as the world has changed since Blackberry was the only game in town. Yes, still stick with MDM, device location, remote wipe etc. But unless you're dealing with highly sensitive information (exp banking), let people actually USE the device you're giving them. Don't lock it down to where its basically a first generation iPhone. I'm a big fan of giving someone a good tool and letting them use it the way that works best for them, while still keeping the device and more importantly the data under corporate control.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've just received Nook simple touch. It was bought from USA and sent to Bangladesh. After unpacking, I powered on the device and followed the steps. At one stage it connects with the wifi network successfully. Then, It shows error message -"Sorry we're having trouble setting up your Nook...."
I communicated with Nook support and share the serial number. Their feedback was "my Nook is disabled, that's why it is not registering..." usually the device is disabled for lost, stolen etc cases. But I told that the device was purchased from bestbuy.com and it reached to me with intact packet. Also I have invoice of it. But they told me to talk to Bestbuy.com.
Later, I called to Nook's hotline asked that where the issue is related to the location from where I'm trying to use it. Feedback was - Nook is useable only from USA and UK having a valid credit card. It cannot be used from Bangladesh.
Now, what should I do to make it workable from Bangladesh?
Maybe this from the Mobileread.com Nook forums:
As long as the epub files you wish to load on the machine are without DRM, like those in Mobileread's own library, the answer is yes. In fact, that is how I've been using the Nook ST for the last week. I'm setting this reader up for my mom who doesn't have wifi or internet access. Since I'm going to sideloading everything anyway, it seemed stupid to bother with registering the nook.
Here's how after you initially charge the nook and activate the unit:
How to Skip OoBE Experience
1. Enter the Factory Screen by holding the TOP RIGHT Button and slide your
finger across the top of the Nook from left to right. A button labeled
"Factory" will appear in the top left of the screen.
2. Once in the Factory screen, hold down the TOP RIGHT Button and tap in the bottom right of the screen.
3. A new button will appear labeled "Skip Oobe". Tap that and you're done!
While you are at it, you might consider installing the latest software update, which you can manually d/l on your computer and install on the nook via USB.
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/u/Soft...uch/379003175/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
But....be aware that a few subsequent posts in the same thread suggested that battery drain was unusually high when using the Nook unregistered. Maybe there are other solutions out there.But it's a start.
You can gut all the B&N stuff if you like.
You will not be able to read B&N DRMed purchased content.
You will still be able to use it for Adobe Digital Editions from OverDrive (which have other DRM).
That's how you read library books (at least here).
When unregistered B&N can use a lot of current.
Turning WiFi on but never actually using it since it was started uses a lot of current.
Turning WiFi on, using it for something, leaving it on is not nearly as bad.
Sounds confusing? It is.
I'm intrigued by this problem and have done some reading online about various peoples experiences. Many had the device registered in the US before taking possession in their respective countries. Some use non-US credit cards without any problem. It seems that there are differences which may be related to firmware versions and perhaps even to changing B&N policies (many of the posts I read are 2-4 years old).
There's a lively Russian Nook users group over on the-ebook.org. Reading through a rough Google translation (always fun) it seems that the standard approach there is to select a US time zone (change it after registration) and skip the credit card part. It might be easier to set up a B&N account on the B&N website first (although that does require a credit card--surely they accept valid international CCs?). In any case, there don't seem to be any additional issues mentioned by the Russians with regard to registration. Curious.
The OP does not state if the intent is to purchase ebooks from B&N or just to have a functioning eink reader for side-loaded material. I guess it is possible to root without registering if you never want to interact with the B&N store, then remove the B&N stuff that is causing the battery drain (or however much of the B&N stuff you want to remove).
It would help to have more info about the intended use for the Nook in question. Meanwhile, shame on BestBuy....
[addendum: Aha! Try this thread]
Thanks a lot nmyshkin
Now I able to use Nook by using you bypass method. Also the battery drain seems faster (40% in 3days).
Another problem is wifi connectivity. I want to use wifi to browse internet (using the hidden trick). How can I do it?
sameee781 said:
Now I able to use Nook by using you bypass method. Also the battery drain seems faster (40% in 3days).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, as warned. This is the reason to pursue other options because the battery ought to last for a few weeks, not a day or two.
Another problem is wifi connectivity. I want to use wifi to browse internet (using the hidden trick). How can I do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless you have a very early firmware release (unlikely at this date of purchase), you probably can't use that old trick. It was "fixed" in the second or third firmware update so that the default Android browser became unreachable without rooting.
If you want internet access (and/or email, etc.) your best bet is to root the device. To my mind the easiest way to accomplish this is with NookManager. If you want Google apps (and access to the Play Store for more apps) then you can do that after rooting here, or follow the link to it in the NookManager post.
However, unless you want to selectively delete some B&N stuff after rooting, it would be better if you could get the device registered before you root. Now that you know at least one work-around to get the Nook sort of running, maybe try a factory reset and then approach the registration as the Russians have and see if it works for you.
nmyshkin said:
However, unless you want to selectively delete some B&N stuff after rooting, it would be better if you could get the device registered before you root. Now that you know at least one work-around to get the Nook sort of running, maybe try a factory reset and then approach the registration as the Russians have and see if it works for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you please suggest the Russian method by which I'll be able to register?
sameee781 said:
Could you please suggest the Russian method by which I'll be able to register?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look up back at post #4. But you will have to do a hard reset first so that the Nook goes back into registration mode.
Hi nmyshkin
As mentioned in post#4, I didn't find Nook registration trick in the-ebook.org
If you have a launcher installed you can simply select "OOBE" (Out Of Box Experience).
If you don't have a launcher installed, ADB:
Code:
adb shell am start -n com.nook.oobe/.o.ORoot
(That's dot, small O, dot, capital O)
If you are not rooted you'll have to follow the other instructions above.
sameee781 said:
Hi nmyshkin
As mentioned in post#4, I didn't find Nook registration trick in the-ebook.org
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
According to the Ruskies, you should select a US time zone during registration and skip the credit card (I didn't enter a credit card when I did my registration and everything went just fine--it says you can skip). I don't recall the entire registration process any more, but if you need to enter an address, use a fictional US address, something like "125 First Street, Montebello, CA 90640" (the little town where I grew up...). Ditto for a phone number if needed (818-792-6942) For an email address, something without a country identifier would be best, like a Gmail account you can tie to the Nook.
After registration is successful you can change the time zone in the Settings panel.
As an afterthought, a credit card on file is needed if you plan to have any dealing with B&N. For example, I was curious to see if I could get one of the "Friday Free" ebooks from B&N, even with my rooted and much amended Nook. Although the ebook was free I could not access it without a credit card on file. Once I gave them the card info I had no trouble selecting the ebook and it appeared (by magic!) on my rooted Nook within a few minutes. So whatever I've done so far has not broken that process. Now whether I'm going to be interested in reading that book, I have no idea, but I had to try the process
@nmyshkin & Renate
Current status -
I've rooted my nook using NookManager and installed NTGAppsAttack. I've installed Facebook app but cannot use it properly as it shows internet connection issue. But I can bowse internet using operamini. I've tired to use facebook using operamini. But I could not able to write dot in email address field and unable to login. These are the minor problem because my primary objective is to read books.
The main problem is battery drain. So, I want to register the device to solve battery drain issue. If I follow your instruction, will the battery drain issue be resolved? Or I should unroot it and try to register?
sameee781 said:
@nmyshkin & Renate
Current status -
I've rooted my nook using NookManager and installed NTGAppsAttack. I've installed Facebook app but cannot use it properly as it shows internet connection issue. But I can bowse internet using operamini. I've tired to use facebook using operamini. But I could not able to write dot in email address field and unable to login. These are the minor problem because my primary objective is to read books.
The main problem is battery drain. So, I want to register the device to solve battery drain issue. If I follow your instruction, will the battery drain issue be resolved? Or I should unroot it and try to register?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not entirely clear on the order of operations with regard to registration vs. rooting. Registration WILL solve the battery drain problem, so however that can be achieved, that's the way to go, I think. If you can, with your rooted Nook, start the registration process, then try that. If there's no way to invoke registration without resetting to factory, then do that and root again after you have registered successfully.
I don't know anything about Facebook but it may be a challenge with an older browser. BTW, there is general agreement that Opera Mobile works better on the Nook than Opera Mini. You can get that from the Amazon App Market or sideload it directly from the Opera archive here. But first, you need to clear the registration/battery drain hurdle.
Registration is not appearing if I restart the device. As I've skipping oobe it is not going to registration page. If I use DeviceRegistator it gives error.
sameee781 said:
Registration is not appearing if I restart the device. As I've skipping oobe it is not going to registration page. If I use DeviceRegistator it gives error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, once when my too-much altered Nook lost its identity I tried to use DeviceRegistrator and it failed for me too.
NookManager is your friend. Put the SD card back in your Nook and boot it up. Choose the "Restore Factory Image" (or whatever its called).
Then try to register as described earlier with your unrooted Nook. If that works, put the SD card back in again and root. Then proceed from there as you like.
nmyshkin said:
Yes, once when my too-much altered Nook lost its identity I tried to use DeviceRegistrator and it failed for me too.
NookManager is your friend. Put the SD card back in your Nook and boot it up. Choose the "Restore Factory Image" (or whatever its called).
Then try to register as described earlier with your unrooted Nook. If that works, put the SD card back in again and root. Then proceed from there as you like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should I not face the similar problem like first time? Here is the screenshots taken at the time of getting started with my Nook. The problem was also mentioned in the first post.
sameee781 said:
Should I not face the similar problem like first time? Here is the screenshots taken at the time of getting started with my Nook. The problem was also mentioned in the first post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have no idea, but I would sure get closer to the router/modem on your Wi-Fi network so that you have a better than "fair" connection.
The one thing which has worried me about the registration process as described by the Russians is that surely the B&N server can tell if the registration info is coming from a server outside the US (or UK). Even faking the time zone doesn't seem likely since the information won't match the server clock that is sending it. But that's what they say worked.
Anyway, what do you have to lose? The Nook is fairly useless as a reading device if you have to charge it every day--or more often. You need to try registering it again. If it doesn't work, then you try something else.
nmyshkin said:
Anyway, what do you have to lose? The Nook is fairly useless as a reading device if you have to charge it every day--or more often. You need to try registering it again. If it doesn't work, then you try something else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, anyhow I've to solve battery drain issue otherwise the device will become useless. That's why I'll also be there in this forum for your help.
-I tired to register near from my wifi router. Also tried by making my phone (Galaxy S4) as portable wifi hotsport. Both are Failed. I'll try again and again....
-In my device there are only few timezone options available, all are US time zone. There should not be issue selecting any one of them.
I'm thinking about their authentication policy. May be their server is checking the originator IP address first which is a non US IP for my case. Hence, it is giving error.
sameee781 said:
I'm thinking about their authentication policy. May be their server is checking the originator IP address first which is a non US IP for my case. Hence, it is giving error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I thought about that too, although enough people from outside the US claim to have been able to register without any problem (few details, of course....). I suppose you could try a free proxy server (Google), but most of the free ones seem to be transparent enough that they are detected as not being truly from the country of "origin". Still, if all else fails, it's another possibility.
I've found some open proxy proxy server IP
http://www.xroxy.com/proxy-country-US.htm
How can I configure this proxy so that the device IP seem to be a US IP? I've a wimax wifi router and android phone having wifi hotspot feature.
I got a Like New NST, reset it, unregistered it, and rooted it. I haven't replaced the kernel yet. But I have noticed that (even before I rooted it) the battery consumption is unacceptable. I've seen some old threads about this (for example https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1475070) , and some suggested removing some APKs like Phone.apk and TelephonyProvider.apk, while others suggested removing or disabling some B&N-related APKs.
The thing is that some other threads seem to imply these solutions are bogus and that they don't really help. There is a lot of conflicting information spread around on this topic.
Does anybody know if there is a solution to this issue? I'm really loving the NST, it's an amazing reader in all ways except for this glaring issue.
Thanks!
Winston S. said:
I got a Like New NST, reset it, unregistered it, and rooted it. I haven't replaced the kernel yet. But I have noticed that (even before I rooted it) the battery consumption is unacceptable. I've seen some old threads about this (for example https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1475070) , and some suggested removing some APKs like Phone.apk and TelephonyProvider.apk, while others suggested removing or disabling some B&N-related APKs.
The thing is that some other threads seem to imply these solutions are bogus and that they don't really help. There is a lot of conflicting information spread around on this topic.
Does anybody know if there is a solution to this issue? I'm really loving the NST, it's an amazing reader in all ways except for this glaring issue.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sympathize and don't want to add to the conflicting information. Read what I wrote here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=78287581&postcount=2 under "Decrapify system/app". I can tell you definitively that Phone.apk has little or nothing to do with your battery drain. I did a major study on that issue a long time ago: https://forum.xda-developers.com/nook-touch/general/battery-usage-phone-apk-t3341370
nmyshkin said:
I sympathize and don't want to add to the conflicting information. Read what I wrote here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=78287581&postcount=2 under "Decrapify system/app". I can tell you definitively that Phone.apk has little or nothing to do with your battery drain. I did a major study on that issue a long time ago: https://forum.xda-developers.com/nook-touch/general/battery-usage-phone-apk-t3341370
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for all your work, you are very methodic and logical, and I appreciate your generosity sharing all your knowledge about the NST (I have been reading up on different things here before I decided to buy one.) :good:
So, to condense all this, it looks as if neither deleting Phone.apk nor disabling B&N apps helps with battery consumption. Also, am I correct in concluding that having an unregistered Nook (or a Nook which is offline, even if registered) will invariably result in poor battery life? That's quite unfortunate, as I was planning to use my NST as a fully offline device.
Winston S. said:
So, to condense all this, it looks as if neither deleting Phone.apk nor disabling B&N apps helps with battery consumption. Also, am I correct in concluding that having an unregistered Nook (or a Nook which is offline, even if registered) will invariably result in poor battery life? That's quite unfortunate, as I was planning to use my NST as a fully offline device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Almost, but fortunately not quite right. Although B&N did some questionable stuff when they cobbled together the NST/G system, I don't think they expected the devices to spend a lot of time online. If the system detects that there is no WiFi, it just slaps a post-it on its internal "refrigerator" to remind it to try a check-in later. All of that happens pretty quickly and in the grand scheme of things Android where stuff is not always killed outright even when you've finished with it, it's not a Big Deal.
So register and forget. It's the easiest path to device stability and the intended power consumption pattern.
nmyshkin said:
Almost, but fortunately not quite right. Although B&N did some questionable stuff when they cobbled together the NST/G system, I don't think they expected the devices to spend a lot of time online. If the system detects that there is no WiFi, it just slaps a post-it on its internal "refrigerator" to remind it to try a check-in later. All of that happens pretty quickly and in the grand scheme of things Android where stuff is not always killed outright even when you've finished with it, it's not a Big Deal.
So register and forget. It's the easiest path to device stability and the intended power consumption pattern.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you again, I suppose if that's the case then I will register my NST. A couple questions: So if I register the device and never again connect to Wireless that "refrigerator post-it" won't expire?
And, most importantly, if I register with B&N will they push the 1.2.2 update on my device, or can I prevent that without any ill effect? I'd really like to stick to 1.2.1.
EDIT: I read your previous OP about the 1.2.2 OTA update, and your link for how to block it here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=34433959&postcount=3
Renate NST also suggested deleting /system/app/DeviceManager.apk, but I don't know if this would be problematic with the B&N registration issue I'm trying to fix to begin with.
Is there a preferred way to do this and still keep the device registered and battery life unscathed?
I appreciate your help!
Winston S. said:
Thank you again, I suppose if that's the case then I will register my NST. A couple questions: So if I register the device and never again connect to Wireless that "refrigerator post-it" won't expire?
And, most importantly, if I register with B&N will they push the 1.2.2 update on my device, or can I prevent that without any ill effect? I'd really like to stick to 1.2.1.
EDIT: I read your previous OP about the 1.2.2 OTA update, and your link for how to block it here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=34433959&postcount=3
Renate NST also suggested deleting /system/app/DeviceManager.apk, but I don't know if this would be problematic with the B&N registration issue I'm trying to fix to begin with.
Is there a preferred way to do this and still keep the device registered and battery life unscathed?
I appreciate your help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think since you are just starting out working with the device and don't have work to lose by updating and re-rooting, registering and then updating (you can do it manually by downloading the file yourself) is your best bet. The device keeps a "last date contacted" and "next date to try contact" in settings.db. If there is no WiFi, it will just keep changing the dates. That's all.
OTOH, if you do not update but NEVER connect to WiFi, there will probably be no issue. The method to block updates "works", as I found, but it did not prevent the occasional reboot when I was connected to WiFi, so I finally just threw in the towel and updated my devices, starting over from scratch. I'm happy with the many changes I've made since, so it worked out for me. Not sure why you want to stay with 1.2.1. It is virtually identical to 1.2.2 and I don't believe there is anything on-site here that worked with 1.2.1 which doesn't also work with 1.2.2. All B&N did was patch contacts with their servers for TLS 1.2 compliance.
Deleting/disabling DeviceManager will give your NST Alzheimers as far as your registration is concerned and it will just begin wondering why it can't remember who it is and how/when to phone home--wherever that is. One of the problems with disabling B&N apps is that there are also jar files which don't get disabled and the system still tries to fool with those. You can delete/disable those as well but the more you niggle at the system architecture the more unstable the device becomes and the more things fail to work properly (like the Reader and Library).
Like I said before, it's better AND easier to just treat the device the way it was designed as far as updating or registering. You don't have to use a credit card, you don't even have to use a real e-mail address, I suppose. Then when all that is out of the way you can just install your own launcher and set the "n" button to Home. Voila! You'll never see or hear from the B&N stuff again and your battery will last a good long time.
nmyshkin said:
I think since you are just starting out working with the device and don't have work to lose by updating and re-rooting, registering and then updating (you can do it manually by downloading the file yourself) is your best bet. The device keeps a "last date contacted" and "next date to try contact" in settings.db. If there is no WiFi, it will just keep changing the dates. That's all.
OTOH, if you do not update but NEVER connect to WiFi, there will probably be no issue. The method to block updates "works", as I found, but it did not prevent the occasional reboot when I was connected to WiFi, so I finally just threw in the towel and updated my devices, starting over from scratch. I'm happy with the many changes I've made since, so it worked out for me. Not sure why you want to stay with 1.2.1. It is virtually identical to 1.2.2 and I don't believe there is anything on-site here that worked with 1.2.1 which doesn't also work with 1.2.2. All B&N did was patch contacts with their servers for TLS 1.2 compliance.
Deleting/disabling DeviceManager will give your NST Alzheimers as far as your registration is concerned and it will just begin wondering why it can't remember who it is and how/when to phone home--wherever that is. One of the problems with disabling B&N apps is that there are also jar files which don't get disabled and the system still tries to fool with those. You can delete/disable those as well but the more you niggle at the system architecture the more unstable the device becomes and the more things fail to work properly (like the Reader and Library).
Like I said before, it's better AND easier to just treat the device the way it was designed as far as updating or registering. You don't have to use a credit card, you don't even have to use a real e-mail address, I suppose. Then when all that is out of the way you can just install your own launcher and set the "n" button to Home. Voila! You'll never see or hear from the B&N stuff again and your battery will last a good long time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The main reason I want to avoid 1.2.2 is because I tend to value stability overall, and since most of the stuff here was created by the era of 1.2.1 or before, I am leery of doing something that will make things less compatible. Plus I am distrustful of B&N changes on a device this old. I also thought I had read you explaining some changes that needed to be done after a 1.2.2 update to make something work (NM, maybe? I forget.)
So my question was more along the lines of whether, when I register the device, it will be flagged immediately for update and cause some trouble if I don't, or even if the update will be downloaded in the background without me being able to do anything about it. I suppose I could always patch the sqlite file to disable OTA updates and then register. That would be the safest way to go. And you need to use ADB for this to work, right? There is no way to edit the file onboard the NST itself?
I can't wait for the battery consumption to be normal, because I am really enjoying my NST with its great ergonomy and the ability to install different readers. Mine is going to be a dedicated offline ebook reader, but a great one. And much of the reason it is so amazing is thanks to folks like you and Renate who have contributed so much. :good:
Winston S. said:
The main reason I want to avoid 1.2.2 is because I tend to value stability overall, and since most of the stuff here was created by the era of 1.2.1 or before, I am leery of doing something that will make things less compatible. Plus I am distrustful of B&N changes on a device this old. I also thought I had read you explaining some changes that needed to be done after a 1.2.2 update to make something work (NM, maybe? I forget.)
So my question was more along the lines of whether, when I register the device, it will be flagged immediately for update and cause some trouble if I don't, or even if the update will be downloaded in the background without me being able to do anything about it. I suppose I could always patch the sqlite file to disable OTA updates and then register. That would be the safest way to go. And you need to use ADB for this to work, right? There is no way to edit the file onboard the NST itself?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's really no reason to be concerned about the 1.2.2 update. It's all fine. B&N would not go to the trouble on an old device like this only to somehow wreck it. It's just a TLS security update and involves connection to their servers. Since you do not intend to use the device online, the only minor issue (resigning Opera Mobile browser-- which I've already provided elsewhere) is moot for you.
As for changing the OTA flag, you can do it via ADB if you install sqlite3. This is probably best since moving settings.db back onto the device after editing can be tricky. But you could eliminate the entire tango by just updating to 1.2.2 and going on with your life
nmyshkin said:
There's really no reason to be concerned about the 1.2.2 update. It's all fine. B&N would not go to the trouble on an old device like this only to somehow wreck it. It's just a TLS security update and involves connection to their servers. Since you do not intend to use the device online, the only minor issue (resigning Opera Mobile browser-- which I've already provided elsewhere) is moot for you.
As for changing the OTA flag, you can do it via ADB if you install sqlite3. This is probably best since moving settings.db back onto the device after editing can be tricky. But you could eliminate the entire tango by just updating to 1.2.2 and going on with your life
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for clarifying that, I think I have had an overdose of information from reading too many threads in a short span of time and somehow I got the idea NookManager had some sort of issue after the 1.2.2 update that required some tinkering. The fact that the update is limited to the TLS update means it doesn't affect me, so things would be OK. On the other hand, not installing the update also seems like wouldn't be an issue and I really wanted to get ADB going anyway to install things wirelessly, so the most logical path seems to go through the minimal effort required to change that setting anyway. It turns out I already have sqlite3 installed (I am running an Ubuntu system,) so even more reason to do this!
I'll be reading up on the way to get ADB working.
BTW, I know you have proposed probably changing NookManager to address different issues you have encountered. Let me know if I can be of any help. I have no experience building Android components and limited experience compiling, but I would be happy to learn a new skill.
Thanks! :good:
@nmyshkin I easily managed to change the OTA setting through USB ADB. (I'm keeping track of all this process so when I have everything set up I will create a thread for posterity to help anyone else with the same questions.)
Now, the problem I wasn't anticipating is that I didn't foresee the battery problems, so I used that procedure to avoid the Register prompt on startup (Bypass OOBE procedure.) But of course now I don't know how to register the Nook. Do I need to reset to Factory using NookManager, root, disable OTA, and then register? It would be nice if there is a way to avoid this?
EDIT: Searching through another thread I saw your suggestions (almost 3 years old) to use the DeviceRegistrator, so after creating a B&N account I did and it said that the registration was successful, but in Settings the Account is showing up as unavailable, so I restarted the NST, and still I am getting Account Unavailable under Settings. Does the Device Registrator not work anymore? Or have B&N stop registering NST devices?
So I checked by logging into the B&N account and as expected there are no NSTs linked to my account. The DeviceRegistrator app has a few options (Register Device, Authenticate Device, Register User, and Authenticate User.) I didn't touch the User options so I guess that is to create a new account. I just used the "Register Device" option. Do I need to Authenticate Device too, or is this just not working anymore?
I read somewhere that there is also another app called OOBE Reg or something like that that basically runs the default registration procedure, but I haven't found that app in my NST.
I actually went down a similar rabbit hole myself at one point when I was investigating selective disabling of B&N apps, etc. Yes, you need to authenticate. That may or may not have the desired effect. Right now DeviceRegistrator is your only option. It may or may not be possible to authenticate a rooted device by this method.
Having said that, maybe it's time to take a step back and ask yourself whether all this angst is worth the end result when the path of least resistance will yield an equally functional result. The answer to that depends, in part, on how much other stuff you have already done. But before you do more things don't forget that the basic device needs to be in optimum working condition (like not eating battery) first.
nmyshkin said:
I actually went down a similar rabbit hole myself at one point when I was investigating selective disabling of B&N apps, etc. Yes, you need to authenticate. That may or may not have the desired effect. Right now DeviceRegistrator is your only option. It may or may not be possible to authenticate a rooted device by this method.
Having said that, maybe it's time to take a step back and ask yourself whether all this angst is worth the end result when the path of least resistance will yield an equally functional result. The answer to that depends, in part, on how much other stuff you have already done. But before you do more things don't forget that the basic device needs to be in optimum working condition (like not eating battery) first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will Authenticate using DeviceRegistrator and see if it works. The Catch 22 is that if I revert to Factory and then register the device I might have a problem with the 1.2.2 update I want to avoid (but yes, I realize at this point my aversion to 1.2.2 is basically irrational.) So I will try this approach first and report back. I will double check to see if the Nook Device shows up in my B&N account too, and I'll report again.
I agree 100% about putting the device in a sound baseline state before installing a lot into it. I'm documenting all that I do, and when I reach that state I'll create a thread about it. Hopefully it can be of use to someone down the road, because I do see new NST units being bought still every week in eBay.
I was relieved that ADB over USB was already enabled by installing NookManager and that I only needed to create a couple of files in my Ubuntu machine for it to work.
Winston S. said:
I was relieved that ADB over USB was already enabled by installing NookManager and that I only needed to create a couple of files in my Ubuntu machine for it to work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's actually news to me. I had thought the flag for WiFi ADB was set. I've never tried USB.
nmyshkin said:
That's actually news to me. I had thought the flag for WiFi ADB was set. I've never tried USB.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, apparently ADB Konnect is set up so that if you start ADB Wireless it sets the flag, and then unsets it. I just tried ADB through Wireless and it also works.
To update on the DeviceRegistrator, I tried to Authenticate the Device and it didn't work (I got a banner saying that the operation is no longer supported.) So it looks like I will need to restore to Factory, register, and then root (which defeats the purpose of disabling OTA updates, as I can't do that until I root.)
@nmyshkin, is resetting the Nook to factory by using "Erase & Deregister Device" option in the stock Nook Settings the same as resetting to factory.zip from NookManager or holding the two Page Back hardware buttons on startup?
I reset mine using the "Erase & Deregister Device" menu option, and then registered and rooted it again, but still I am having problems with CoolReader (I am using the cr3_0_49_13.apk posted in the relevant thread.) Basically, there are no options to set the refresh interval where they should be, and the Options interface is black. Somebody mentioned this as well but they fixed it by restoring to factory, so I'm wondering what the deal is. Is this the only version of CoolReader people use with the NST?
Winston S. said:
@nmyshkin, is resetting the Nook to factory by using "Erase & Deregister Device" option in the stock Nook Settings the same as resetting to factory.zip from NookManager or holding the two Page Back hardware buttons on startup?
I reset mine using the "Erase & Deregister Device" menu option, and then registered and rooted it again, but still I am having problems with CoolReader (I am using the cr3_0_49_13.apk posted in the relevant thread.) Basically, there are no options to set the refresh interval where they should be, and the Options interface is black. Somebody mentioned this as well but they fixed it by restoring to factory, so I'm wondering what the deal is. Is this the only version of CoolReader people use with the NST?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, erase and deregister does just that. It removes your account info and settings. The factory reset is an actual reimaging of the device from the protected onboard image. This can be done with the two button technique, NookManager or eight failed boot attempts.
I'm afraid I can't help much with CoolReader. I once had a version installed but found it had way too many settings for me. I ended up using only the screensaver/book cover option but that was pretty silly and I eventually got rid of and wrote my own app for that.
I located the version for the other fellow, but that's the extent of my knowledge. I'll try it in a bit and see what you're talking about.
nmyshkin said:
No, erase and deregister does just that. It removes your account info and settings. The factory reset is an actual reimaging of the device from the protected onboard image. This can be done with the two button technique, NookManager or eight failed boot attempts.
I'm afraid I can't help much with CoolReader. I once had a version installed but found it had way too many settings for me. I ended up using only the screensaver/book cover option but that was pretty silly and I eventually got rid of and wrote my own app for that.
I located the version for the other fellow, but that's the extent of my knowledge. I'll try it in a bit and see what you're talking about.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please, don't waste any time with CoolReader. As usual, you saved the day. I'll reimage the device using the correct procedure, as I mistakenly believed this is what the Erase and Deregister option did. I think this will take care of the CoolReader weirdness, and if not I have found that NoRefresh works remarkably well with it anyway. Thank you!
Winston S. said:
Please, don't waste any time with CoolReader. As usual, you saved the day. I'll reimage the device using the correct procedure, as I mistakenly believed this is what the Erase and Deregister option did. I think this will take care of the CoolReader weirdness, and if not I have found that NoRefresh works remarkably well with it anyway. Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mmm.....I see nothing in that version of CoolReader thats looks anything like it was adapted for the NST. I got that version from a e-book blog post link so shame on me for passing along bogus stuff. It's definitely NOT the version I once had installed (whatever that was...). The current market version is incompatible and the "new" CoolReader GL installs but does not run. I took a look at the CR home at SourceForge and there are many versions available there but it would be trial-and-error with them--and maybe there is no magic bullet. If you search for "CoolReader" on the forum you will find a variety of references. In some lists of "working" apps there are version numbers. Tracking down one of those might be a start.
nmyshkin said:
Mmm.....I see nothing in that version of CoolReader thats looks anything like it was adapted for the NST. I got that version from a e-book blog post link so shame on me for passing along bogus stuff. It's definitely NOT the version I once had installed (whatever that was...). The current market version is incompatible and the "new" CoolReader GL installs but does not run. I took a look at the CR home at SourceForge and there are many versions available there but it would be trial-and-error with them--and maybe there is no magic bullet. If you search for "CoolReader" on the forum you will find a variety of references. In some lists of "working" apps there are version numbers. Tracking down one of those might be a start.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for looking at this. I am a little confused, because you helped @ALinkToTao who was having problems with it, and he seems to imply that the version linked here which you referred him to ended up working for him..
So I'm just going to write that off to him being confused about the version he ended up installing. I will see if I find something that works, thanks again.
Winston S. said:
Thank you for looking at this. I am a little confused, because you helped @ALinkToTao who was having problems with it, and he seems to imply that the version linked here which you referred him to ended up working for him..
So I'm just going to write that off to him being confused about the version he ended up installing. I will see if I find something that works, thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, so I need to redeem myself there. In my lame defense, I was just going with what was posted here: https://blog.the-ebook-reader.com/2...artial-refresh-and-page-button-support-video/
Clearly that is bogus. So I checked out @wozhere's listed working version, or something close.
I think the place to start is with the 3.1.2 series from the SourceForge home of CoolReader. The attached version looks a lot more like what I remember and has screen refresh options (only visible as settings while viewing a book).
There were many more options on the version I once had, so this one is a starting point only.
I've gotten back into reading lately, and I've been doing most of it on an iPad. I remembered yesterday that I had a NST lying around and went and dusted it off, charged it up, and moved some books over with Calibre. To nobody's surprise, I absolutely adore reading on it compared literally any LCD. I actually stumbled into finding out that there was an active modding scene around it just today and I've been going up and down some of these threads but I have a few questions.
First and foremost, my biggest reason for coming here was to get a modified firmware that allowed for faster refreshes/page turning. I've seen two major threads on this, but both are decently old and I've only ever seen newer questions/responses deal with installing an APK launcher on top of existing firmware. So my questions are:
1. Does the 1.2.2 firmware stop those old methods from rooting/working?
2. If not, why are they not the recommended methods anymore? Too complicated and greater risk to the device?
3. If not (1.), which of these two ROMs is recommended, and are there updated installation guides?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2651053
https://forum.xda-developers.com/nook-touch/development/1337-rom-t2931567
Second, if neither of the custom ROMs are a good choice, I've seen both Relaunch and RelaunchX brought up as custom launchers, with multiple ways of installing them (Directly through ADB vs NookManager) and was looking for some opinions on that as well. Sorry in advance if I didn't search well enough, but any help is appreciated.
Daktyl198 said:
First and foremost, my biggest reason for coming here was to get a modified firmware that allowed for faster refreshes/page turning. I've seen two major threads on this, but both are decently old and I've only ever seen newer questions/responses deal with installing an APK launcher on top of existing firmware. So my questions are:
1. Does the 1.2.2 firmware stop those old methods from rooting/working?
2. If not, why are they not the recommended methods anymore? Too complicated and greater risk to the device?
3. If not (1.), which of these two ROMs is recommended, and are there updated installation guides?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2651053
https://forum.xda-developers.com/nook-touch/development/1337-rom-t2931567
Second, if neither of the custom ROMs are a good choice, I've seen both Relaunch and RelaunchX brought up as custom launchers, with multiple ways of installing them (Directly through ADB vs NookManager) and was looking for some opinions on that as well. Sorry in advance if I didn't search well enough, but any help is appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Which old methods? The 1.2.2 FW update is mainly a TLS 1.2 compliance for connection to B&N servers. There are other minor "under-the-hood" changes, but nothing for the user. That said, the only rooting method that has been specifically updated for the 1.2.2 update is NookManager. Other methods may work. Or not. It would be trial-and-error, i.e., always start with a backup.
2. NookManager is, by far, the simplest and least intrusive layperson's method to root. With some customization you can tailor the initial result. Again, other methods may work.
3. There are no updates for the two ROMs you list. Both are based on the 1.2.1 firmware. This is where things get complicated. Since the TLS update of the 1.2.2 FW is only for the B&N server contact, you don't "lose" anything by staying with 1.2.1 FW. However, if your device is still in contact with B&N, it will attempt to update OTA at random intervals and fail, resulting in a spontaneous reboot. One or both of those ROMs may be structured so that there is no more contact with B&N servers--or all B&N stuff could be wiped out. You'd have to look into the dirty details (if any are given). My experience with attempting this kind of thing has not been good, but maybe that's because I always want to retain the B&N Library and Reader/Dictionary. I like them and they meet my needs. But keeping just a part of the B&N system is nearly impossible--at least it has proven so for me.
So.....I just leave all the B&N stuff alone and install my own stuff for everything but the Library and Reader. It works just fine and doesn't complain about not being able to contact B&N, etc. YMMV and your desires and needs may be quite different.
As for page refresh, there are a couple of approaches. Cool Reader has a version which includes e-ink page refresh settings. Also, some time in the distant past there was a post about changing the number of pages before a complete screen refresh (in the B&N reader). I was actually going to look that up this morning when I saw your post, so if I find it, I'll add that info later.
Edit: here's the info about changing the page refresh interval for the B&N reader: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1699481
For 3, there are useful things in those ROMs, but they may not be ideal for everyone if just installed as is.
For example, both run a handful of scripts at startup that may not be ideal for how some people want to use the Nook. The changes to the RAM management in particular were way too aggressive in my opinion.
But I did end up using one of those ROMs on one of my Nooks, just with most of the startup scripts disabled. On my other Nook running the stock firmware, I borrowed various bits and pieces from the custom ROMs. It just took some time to figure out what worked for me.
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