Device Info:
Nook Color running B&N 1.2 (Android 2.2.1)
ManualNooter 4-6-16
OC at up to 1.2GHz using Froyo 1.2 dalingrin OC emmc 090111
Problem: Text in some apps cannot be seen (ie Titanium Backup "Filters" screen).
Observations: This problem seems to happen with B&N Software Versions ABOVE 1.2 (I am currently running 1.2 because of this issue).
Search Results: I've only found mention of this problem (or something close to it) in two places: HERE and HERE.
Recommended Fix or Workaround: NONE
I just inherited a Nook Color about three weeks ago, it was reset to factory defaults (B&N 1.1). The person I got it from was running B&N Software version 1.2 with the latest recommended ManualNootered version (manualnooter-4-6-16) at that time. He could not get B&N Version 1.3 to work right. When I got the Nook, the first thing I did was to update it to B&N 1.3 and root it with the latest ManualNooter procedures, which worked great (the procedures had been updated since the person I got it from had tried to root B&N 1.3). Thanks GabrialDestruir!
One of the first apps I purchased was Titanium Backup. I noticed in Titanium's Filters screen there were Radio Buttons that had no text next to them. I was brand new to Android and had a lot to learn, so I made note of this issue to return to later. When I finally got around to addressing this issue, I discovered others had the same problem, but so far it was not addressed within the development community.
In my experimenting I have crashed and re-rooted the device many times, so I know the problem is consistent. I was becoming frustrated and asked the previous owner if he had the same issue with B&N 1.2. He did not. As of this morning, I have returned to B&N Software Version 1.2 and I can now see all the text that was invisible before - in every app I've tested and remembered had the issue.
The specifications above are the only changes needed to reproduce the problem. As soon as I was up and running, I downloaded Titanium Backup from Market. When I rooted the Nook using B&N Software version 1.2, all text was visible. Following the procedures to get the system up to the same place with B&N 1.3, the text problem reappears (text disappears).
Any help with this problem would be greatly appreciated. If you have any questions for me or if I have forgotten a critical piece of information, please do not hesitate to post what you need here, I will be checking it daily.
Thank you for your time, effort, and help XDA! You've made a complicated procedure very simple.
I am experiencing the same problems with dialog boxes in many apps and widgets. I too have tried to find a solution.
Sent from my BNRV200 using Tapatalk
milliman said:
I am experiencing the same problems with dialog boxes in many apps and widgets. I too have tried to find a solution.
Sent from my BNRV200 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Changing the dpi in build.prop to 160 helps, but does not cure the problem.
framitz said:
Changing the dpi in build.prop to 160 helps, but does not cure the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I do that with LCD resolution?
This has always been a problem with the stock ROM, IIRC it's because typical Android text is Black and it's White on the stock ROM, therefore by default it's White on White in some apps.
If you don't need the Read to Me kids books or Magazines, use CM7 and the Nook market app, it doesn't have this problem and does much more.
khaytsus said:
This has always been a problem with the stock ROM, IIRC it's because typical Android text is Black and it's White on the stock ROM, therefore by default it's White on White in some apps.
If you don't need the Read to Me kids books or Magazines, use CM7 and the Nook market app, it doesn't have this problem and does much more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, so far, that's what I figured - the Nook is using a white background and if a program does not explicitly define the background and foreground text colors, but assumes the background is black, this is when the problem occurs.
I guess what I was wondering is if there is a way to change the default background color for the Nooks to black, and the default foreground text color to white. I read somewhere about "theme-ing," though, like I said, I am new to Android, could theme-ing be a solution?
I don't get your second statement. I already use CM7 (but only so far as for booting to use ManualNooter), and I have no idea what "Nook market app" you are referring to, or the Kid Reading stuff - do you meant the stock B&N stuff?. Am I missing a key concept here?
Or, possibly, are you suggesting I use CM7 to install a different ROM and skip the Nooter method altogether? I was actually beginning to research this - I can do without all the B&N stuff, it doesn't work right anyway and I have disabled much of the B&N apps. If flashing a different ROM fixes this and "does much more," I'm all for it. It will just take me doing a little more research and someone confirming this is what you are referring to.
khaytsus said:
This has always been a problem with the stock ROM, IIRC it's because typical Android text is Black and it's White on the stock ROM, therefore by default it's White on White in some apps.
If you don't need the Read to Me kids books or Magazines, use CM7 and the Nook market app, it doesn't have this problem and does much more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see! I will have to see if I can dig into the nook a little deeper and see if I can do anything about that. It is annoying but I'm not annoyed enough to change to CM7 yet! Plus I have a People subscription that I am enjoying ATM.
Trasd..You are using CWM to boot to manual nooter. CM7 is something else.
Anemailname said:
Trasd..You are using CWM to boot to manual nooter. CM7 is something else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, thank you, I was wondering how some people were runnig higher versions of Android - now I know.
Is it weird I love this stuff?
Well, as they say, back to the drawing board....
EDITED
The theory below is NOT the problem, but I left it up because I cannot delete it and is serves as reminder. Sorry.
ORIGINAL
I have made a discovery; the problem seems to happen, not because of background color assumptions, but when styles are used (an app developer, who was kind enough to debug and redesign his app for me, discovered this).
I am almost to the point in my self-education with Android and Java programming that I can verify this myself, but I am not quite there yet. If someone does verify this, could you please post your findings here?
As you can tell, I haven't flashed the ROM yet, and may not for awhile. It's running OK and I really want to concentrate on programming for the time being.
As more and more developers use styles though, I may not have a choice.
Hi
I have a nook simple touch - 1.2.1 firmware not rooted yet, I only want to use it as an e-reader but the ghosting is awful compared to my wifes kindle of the same generation (non touch).
I've been trying to look around and find out what I can do, is there a way to force it to refresh every page, some searching seems to suggest the issue was better on older firmwares, why B&N didnt include an option like amazon to force refesh every page who knows (that's not enabled on my wifes kindle) - the Kindle is just much easier to read in direct bright sunlight but I'm sure theres some tweaking that can be done to improve it
I have to say I am surprised by your description of your NST. I've been paying close attention to mine today while reading and I may be losing my vision but I can't see the ghosting you are describing. I've always felt the native Reader and its default settings worked really well. In some other apps there may be issues with ghosting, but not in the reader.
I'm running FW 1.21 also and while I have rooted and altered my device a lot, to my knowledge I haven't done anything to the functioning of the Reader app. Are you sure you don't have some kind of hardware issue?
nmyshkin said:
I have to say I am surprised by your description of your NST. I've been paying close attention to mine today while reading and I may be losing my vision but I can't see the ghosting you are describing. I've always felt the native Reader and its default settings worked really well. In some other apps there may be issues with ghosting, but not in the reader.
I'm running FW 1.21 also and while I have rooted and altered my device a lot, to my knowledge I haven't done anything to the functioning of the Reader app. Are you sure you don't have some kind of hardware issue?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It could be a hardware issue but it's well out of warranty, I do notice the ghosting on the kindle too so maybe im just susceptable to spotting it and having it irritate me, just wondered if there are any tweaks to control thow often it refreshes as its ok once it refreshes the screen
damianiw said:
It could be a hardware issue but it's well out of warranty, I do notice the ghosting on the kindle too so maybe im just susceptable to spotting it and having it irritate me, just wondered if there are any tweaks to control thow often it refreshes as its ok once it refreshes the screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, so look here at what Renate suggests.
nmyshkin said:
OK, so look here at what Renate suggests.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seemed to be very complex, so I went for root and under there is the option for how many pages before full refresh
also installed cool reader for good measure and very happy - problem solved
damianiw said:
Seemed to be very complex, so I went for root and under there is the option for how many pages before full refresh
also installed cool reader for good measure and very happy - problem solved
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent! Your rooting method must be different from mine but now we're both happy
Good job, @nmyshkin!
Thanks everyone, my main concern was rooting would stop it behaving like an e reader but relaunch I a great launcher and the default options for home and library mean I have best of both and importantly control over the refresh as my nook does appear to ghost far more than a friends on comparison, for the £29 paid over a year ago the nook is awesome
Comparing my nook to a friends the contrast looks really different so maybe this unit wasnt calibrated right - i'm now looking for a contrast adjuster to see if that solves me needing to fully refresh the screen so much as that will be using more battery
For the sake of completeness (most of you will have noticed this app already): For a change, Samsung have done a fantastic job and released a great app called "Game Tuner". It's simple to use, doesn't even need root, and renders all of the stuff I wrote below obsolete!
What it does is, it renders each game at an individual screen resolution, frame rate, and texture quality (texture quality only working for me since MM upgrade).
All you have to do is install Game Tuner from Google Play (above link), start it, follow the instructions to install GameMode through Galaxy Apps, and you're good to go. Create a custom profile, set default values (e.g. 75% resolution=1080p), activate the profile. Set different resolutions for other games. And if you want to control apps other than games, tap top left menu, and chose "Apps".
I've done the same benchmarks as with the method below, and the results were exactly the same, so it's really working, but without messing up the UI or impairing system apps like the camera.
Hey folks,
I've decided to put together a little wrap-up of the stuff I found regarding the sometimes rather poor 3D performance of the Note 4. This is only for experienced users who are familiar with things as rooting, backups, adb, in general: unbricking their phone if bad things happen. As usual, I don't take any responsibilty if you brick your phone or destroy it in any other way. Just make sure to activate USB debugging, and if anything goes wrong, either follow this guide, or simply reflash your ROM.
Just make sure you make a Nandroid or at least Titanium backup before you try this. Better safe than sorry...
It comes as no surprise that running a cpu at almost 3GHz takes its toll. Demanding games such as Real Racing 3 or XCOM:EW, or emulators such as PPSSPP cause the cpu to heat up rapidly, until it reaches ~80°C, before it gets mercilessly downclocked to cool down. At this point, you start noticing more or less pronounced performance drops. There isn't really much you can do, except using a custom kernel to downclock cpu & gpu, before your phone does.
But apart from that, there is another, even greater performance hog, which is also one of the main reasons for the overheating issue: the QHD resolution of our Note 4's screen. We're talking about a 3.69 megapixel resolution, that's almost twice as much as Full HD (2.07 MP), and exactly four times as much as HD (0.92 MP). Gorgeous and brilliant, beautiful to look at during everyday use, but pushing the Adreno gpu to its limits when it comes to gaming.
So, an ingenious guy called NOMone has created a nifty little tool called "NOMone Resolution Changer", already some time ago. It's available for free at Google Play. It's been widely discussed here on xda and on other forums, but I want to share my experience specifically on the Note 4.
Btw, it seems he only posted here two times, so he's most likely not active anymore, but you should head over and thank him anyway.
Now, if you're thinking "no way, why should I deliberately sacrifice my QHD resolution?", read on nonetheless. Because this tool is extremely easy to use, and if you only switch the resolution before playing a game, and revert afterwards (it's only one click), you won't have to sacrifice any visual quality. The settings stick after a reboot, so make sure to really restore defaults if you want to go back to QHD.
The trick is to use the appropriate resolution and dpi values, so your screen doesn't get mixed up.
The results are impressive, sometimes even staggering. Has anyone ever wondered why PPSSPP doesn't perform better on a Note 4 than it does on a Note 2? Here's the reason. PPSSPP gains so much performance , it's almost unbelievable.
I've also done some benchmark runs to measure the improvements (yeah, I know, benchmarks are bad, but still :angel: ). The improvement is clearly visible and, even more important, reproducable:
GFXBench GL Benchmark 3.1 (Manhattan):
1. 1440p: 449,4 frames, 7.2 fps
2. 1080p: 800,6 frames, 13 fps (+78%)
3. 720p: 1621 frames, 26 fps (+261%)
4. 480p: 2728 frames, 44 fps (+507%)
This is plain awesome. The Note 4 is listed even lower, with 434 frames, in the device list, while the 1080p Galaxy S5 reaches 775 frames.
AnTuTu (gpu score only):
1. 1440p: 16210
2. 1080p: 21253 (+31%)
3. 720p: 22524 (+40%)
4. 480p: 22523 (+40%)
Obviously, by comparing scores 3 and 4, the Note 4 hits the fps limit at HD resolution, so there's no more room for improvement in AnTuTu.
Seascape Benchmark (detail setting: Very High):
1440p: 26.9 fps
1080p: 46.6 fps (+73%)
720p: 53.4 fps (+99%, sometimes hits the frame limit of 59.0 fps)
480p: 59.0 fps (+119%, hits the frame limit constantly).
This is a beautiful OpenGL ES 2.0 test, so no cpu scores interfering with the result. Again the fps limit prevents a higher score, but nonetheless, this is pretty amazing.
Other benefits: if you're using a custom kernel, you can run gpu-intensive games at lower cpu speeds to keep the cpu temperature in check. In my case, XCOM:EW runs smoothly @ 30% (!!) cpu speed. This way, the cpu doesn't heat up to more than 60°C, which means it doesn't get downclocked while playing. If you like, you can also automate the process of setting the cpu speed with the aptly named app "Automate" . Which is fantastic, btw.
Now what about visual quality?
Seriously: it's hard to tell the difference. If you look very closely, you can see the display isn't as sharp in FHD as in QHD. But if you look that closely, you're in constant danger of triggering some random app with the tip of your nose. At normal viewing distance, especially while gaming, it's impossible to tell the difference.
So, are there any drawbacks?
Yes, there are: the UI gets messed up a bit (e.g. bigger status bar, some Samsung apps don't fit on screen anymore), and NOMone Resolution Changer doesn't seem to work with CM12.1. Well, at least for me, and other users reported so as well. I tested it some time ago, while I was on CM12.1, and even thought it was a fake app, which it isn't! Seems that the resolution is somehow hard coded into CM12, and you can only switch dpi. There's probably nothing you can do when you're running CM, except try your luck.
But if you are running a Touchwiz ROM, stock or custom, it should work as intended (Emotion Revolution ROM r10.1 in my case). And you can simply ignore the UI issues, as long as you only switch the resolution for gaming. It's not a real issue then, because the status bar is hidden anyway while the game is running.
If you want to keep your device running at FullHD permanently, it's a bit more complicated: first, you'll need Xposed, so you can use the App Settings module to set Android System and SystemUI to 480 dpi. This'll fix the UI (Not needed. Just reboot)
Some apps like phone, contacts, S-Note scale down to the lower dpi setting, whereas Samsung keyboard and the camera won't (camera works, see post #10 below).
So you'll have to install another keyboard like SwiftKey (if you don't have it already), find a working camera app (3rd party or hacked Note 4 camera), and clear your Google Play data (at least I had to, it wouldn't install any apps after the changes), and you're good to go. There might also be other issues I'm not aware of yet. But apart from the ones I described, everything's working fine so far.
Have fun!
you don't need root to change the dpi and the resolution.
enable usb debugging and adb the following:
adb shell wm density 480
adb shell wm size 1080x1920
adb reboot
if you want to revert back:
adb shell wm size reset
adb shell wm density reset
adb reboot
the changes persist after reboot.
I am using it like that for some time. Everything is much faster. Even the browsing..
the only 2 bugs I noticed is the Samsung keyboard (i switched to swiftkey) and the action memo (c'mon Samsung devs, code properly..)
mitko76 said:
you don't need root to change the dpi and the resolution.
enable usb debugging and adb the following:
adb shell wm density 480
adb shell wm size 1080x1920
adb reboot
if you want to revert back:
adb shell wm size reset
adb shell wm density reset
adb reboot
the changes persist after reboot.
I am using it like that for some time. Everything is much faster. Even the browsing..
the only 2 bugs I noticed is the Samsung keyboard (i switched to swiftkey) and the action memo (c'mon Samsung devs, code properly..)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right, you don't necessarily need this tool. All it does is simplify the process. And you should really be able to use adb commands to fix your phone when you mess it up. But NOMone's tool comes in very handy when you're away from your pc and need to switch resolutions quickly. In my case, it's when I want to use the camera: the UI is messed up at 1080p and I haven't found a way to fix it yet, except switch back to QHD. Or the other way round: if you want to play a demanding game on the train at lower resolution, but go back to QHD again.
I'm using 1080p resolution permanently now, because I get a smoother UI, a cooler phone, better battery life, and much better performance. I hope they don't give us 5" UHD screens next...
Could you please explain what is wrong with the camera on 1080p 480dpi? I am using these settings and have 0 problems with the camera. Just curious.. If possible please attach a screen shot. Cheers
The UI is messed. I can't see most of the buttons, and can't take a photo, see attached screenshot.
Xelasarg said:
The UI is messed. I can't see most of the buttons, and can't take a photo, see attached screenshot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Using my method and my values, it is absolutely fine for me. Do you restart after changing the resolution and the dpi?
I am on UK BTU 5.1.1
mitko76 said:
Using my method and my values, it is absolutely fine for me. Do you restart after changing the resolution and the dpi?
I am on UK BTU 5.1.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I even wiped /cache and /dalvik. Strange. My device is a Snapdragon N910F. Is yours an Exynos N910C perhaps? If not, would you mind sending me your camera apk for testing?
Thanks!
Xelasarg said:
I even wiped /cache and /dalvik. Strange. My device is a Snapdragon N910F. Is yours an Exynos N910C perhaps? If not, would you mind sending me your camera apk for testing?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
very strange indeed. My device is n910f as well. Not rooted and fully stock. I used the Debloater app to disable all unused apps (works via adb) and the method descried in my other post to change the resolution and dpi. The camera is working absolutely fine i.e. no visual changes or glitches. As I am not rooted I am not sure if I can give you the camera apk. It is basically the same apk as in the stock 5.1.1 BTU rom. Try my method on the stock rom with my values and I am sure it will work.
Cool
mitko76 said:
very strange indeed. My device is n910f as well. Not rooted and fully stock. I used the Debloater app to disable all unused apps (works via adb) and the method descried in my other post to change the resolution and dpi. The camera is working absolutely fine i.e. no visual changes or glitches. As I am not rooted I am not sure if I can give you the camera apk. It is basically the same apk as in the stock 5.1.1 BTU rom. Try my method on the stock rom with my values and I am sure it will work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I went ahead and downloaded _alexndr's COI3 stock debloated rom base (Deodexed), extracted SamsungCamera3.apk, replaced the one in my /system/app dir, set permissions, rebooted, and everything's working fine now. :good:
No idea what the Emotroid guys did to the camera app.
I've attached the apk to this post in case anyone else is having this issue.
Man, I've been playing XCOM:EW at 720p, and my phone didn't get warmer than 59°C, even after 2+ hours. And the performance boost is just so incredible... Turns out I don't even mind the 720p resolution in 3D games, it didn't bother me at all.
Just a warning:
I just managed to render my phone useless with this. After changing resolution and DPI, the phone did a soft reboot (as it should), startet booting, then, after the initialisation of systemUI reboots. Has been Bootlooping the past hour. ADB doesn't work, as reboot it's unauthorised and boot loop doesn't allow for any authorisation. Tried resetting via build.prop and userinit.sh. Even Direct Script Injection into init.rc didn't work.
Cache wipe -> no chance
System wipe and reflash -> Nope
In the End i ended up factory resetting and reflashing complete rom. This did work. Not to rant or anything, just a little story for those that are not capable to troubleshoot problems: This might screw your Installation!
domsch1988 said:
Just a warning:
I just managed to render my phone useless with this. After changing resolution and DPI, the phone did a soft reboot (as it should), startet booting, then, after the initialisation of systemUI reboots. Has been Bootlooping the past hour. ADB doesn't work, as reboot it's unauthorised and boot loop doesn't allow for any authorisation. Tried resetting via build.prop and userinit.sh. Even Direct Script Injection into init.rc didn't work.
Cache wipe -> no chance
System wipe and reflash -> Nope
In the End i ended up factory resetting and reflashing complete rom. This did work. Not to rant or anything, just a little story for those that are not capable to troubleshoot problems: This might screw your Installation!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hence the warning at the beginning of the thread.
But seriously: which method did you use? The NOMone app or the adb commands? Because only the adb command needs a reboot to take effect, NOMone does not reboot: it changes the resolution on the fly, then waits 10 seconds for confirmation and switches back to default resolution otherwise.
It's impossible to tell what went wrong in your case, might have been anything from a bad adb command to a malfunction of the app or your rom. I guess if you enter bad values, both methods might break your SystemUI. I managed to do so by using Automate to activate the shell commands on app launch (no bootloop, though, only permanent FC of SystemUI), but I was able to fix it with adb easily.
It's a shame it didn't work for you, most people who are using this method are very happy with it.
THANKS !
dooes this improve battery as well /
gonna try this
Boody hegan said:
THANKS !
dooes this improve battery as well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it does, at least a bit. The screen does still burn a lot of juice because it's so big and bright, but the cpu stays much cooler. Less heat=less power consumption.
Thanks alot , i'm on simplrom v5c and googy max kernel v2
can this still work ..
Xelasarg said:
Hence the warning at the beginning of the thread.
But seriously: which method did you use? The NOMone app or the adb commands? Because only the adb command needs a reboot to take effect, NOMone does not reboot: it changes the resolution on the fly, then waits 10 seconds for confirmation and switches back to default resolution otherwise.
It's impossible to tell what went wrong in your case, might have been anything from a bad adb command to a malfunction of the app or your rom. I guess if you enter bad values, both methods might break your SystemUI. I managed to do so by using Automate to activate the shell commands on app launch (no bootloop, though, only permanent FC of SystemUI), but I was able to fix it with adb easily.
It's a shame it didn't work for you, most people who are using this method are very happy with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was completely my fault. I knew what i was getting into, so no problem. It's just that, the "mistakes" i did could easily be done by accident by some less experienced users.
First off, i'm on CM12. NOMones Sollution doesn't seem to work there. CM does a "Hot Reboot" to reload the system UI. No matter what you set in NOMones app, the resolution doesn't change. DPI does though. This seems to be a CM related issue. Maybe they hardcode the resolution at build time...
After that i tried another app, which had the Orientation labeled backwards. So it set 1920x1080 landscape instead of portrait. After that the Phone Bootlooped the System UI. It would always boot up to the PIN Enter Screen and then reboot.
As said, no big Problem. I knew what to do and was able to bring my phone back to working state. Just make sure that you are 100% sure about the numbers you put into such apps and keep in mind that even with such "small" changes you should always have a up to date Backup of everything.
Boody hegan said:
Thanks alot , i'm on simplrom v5c and googy max kernel v2
can this still work ..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It should, unless SimplROM is CM12-based. NOMone Resolution Changer, as well as similar apps and the adb method, aren't limited to specific devices. In theory, they may all work on all Android phones. You'll have to try it out yourself, just make a backup before you do so!
domsch1988 said:
It was completely my fault. I knew what i was getting into, so no problem. It's just that, the "mistakes" i did could easily be done by accident by some less experienced users.
First off, i'm on CM12. NOMones Sollution doesn't seem to work there. CM does a "Hot Reboot" to reload the system UI. No matter what you set in NOMones app, the resolution doesn't change. DPI does though. This seems to be a CM related issue. Maybe they hardcode the resolution at build time...
After that i tried another app, which had the Orientation labeled backwards. So it set 1920x1080 landscape instead of portrait. After that the Phone Bootlooped the System UI. It would always boot up to the PIN Enter Screen and then reboot.
As said, no big Problem. I knew what to do and was able to bring my phone back to working state. Just make sure that you are 100% sure about the numbers you put into such apps and keep in mind that even with such "small" changes you should always have a up to date Backup of everything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, thanks for clarification. I don't remember the hot reboot in CM12, but I know the resolution switch didn't work when I tried it on my Note 2 some time ago. Funny that for once Touchwiz is more customizable than CM.
If you're still interested, but hate the Samsung colour scheme (like me), you can try out Emotion Revolution ROM r10.1. It's based on the latest COI3 TW firmware, but they themed the notifcation/status bar and toggles to somewhat more like stock Android, see attached screenshot. Looks pretty sleek, performance is easily on par with CM12, and the Emotion kernel has tons of great tweaking options. Or you can go for their Port Note 5 r2.1 ROM, also based on COI3, which should offer full Theme Store support. That's the one I'll flash next. :good:
Xelasarg said:
Right, thanks for clarification. I don't remember the hot reboot in CM12, but I know the resolution switch didn't work when I tried it on my Note 2 some time ago. Funny that for once Touchwiz is more customizable than CM.
If you're still interested, but hate the Samsung colour scheme (like me), you can try out Emotion Revolution ROM r10.1. It's based on the latest COI3 TW firmware, but they themed the notifcation/status bar and toggles to somewhat more like stock Android, see attached screenshot. Looks pretty sleek, performance is easily on par with CM12, and the Emotion kernel has tons of great tweaking options. Or you can go for their Port Note 5 r2.1 ROM, also based on COI3, which should offer full Theme Store support. That's the one I'll flash next. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah, TW is no option... I choose CM because of the straight forward no bllsht Apps approach. Plus Nightly builds via OTA... In no possible way am i going back to TW
AnTuTu Benchmark @ 1080p, performance governor, stock cpu frequency (2.65 GHz): :highfive:
(OK, cpu was also very cool when benchmark started, 28°C).
Is there any way to increase the screen sensitivity on the T280? I've only found one mention of the issue after thoroughly searching Google, with no suggested fix.
I'm comfortable with modifying system files such as build.prop and such, I just have no idea where to start!
The issue:
This screen is really slow to pick up touches, especially from a stylus.
When swiping (eg for pattern unlock) contact is often broken.
Even using my finger, when selecting text it's difficult to move just one letter at a time.
In handwriting/drawing apps, resulting text is extremely angular and jagged.
Here's what I've tried:
Changed "mouse sensitivity" in the settings (minor improvement)
Used 2 different screen calibration apps (minor improvement)
Installed debloated ROM (only one available; no improvement)
Removed some unnecessary system apps (will be removing more to free up space....)
Disabled settings that affect device speed such as animations
Several different stylus types (the most expensive work worst )
So, is anyone else finding this an issue? Is there a fix I don't know about? Is/are there a kernel tweak or something that will speed up screen response time?
I bought this tablet in part so I could use it for handwriting input using a stylus on a larger screen than my teeny S5. Unfortunately, the screen response is far too inconsistent and ...well, slow than I'd expected.
PushyPhoenix said:
Is there any way to increase the screen sensitivity on the T280? I've only found one mention of the issue after thoroughly searching Google, with no suggested fix.
I'm comfortable with modifying system files such as build.prop and such, I just have no idea where to start!
The issue:
This screen is really slow to pick up touches, especially from a stylus.
When swiping (eg for pattern unlock) contact is often broken.
Even using my finger, when selecting text it's difficult to move just one letter at a time.
In handwriting/drawing apps, resulting text is extremely angular and jagged.
Here's what I've tried:
Changed "mouse sensitivity" in the settings (minor improvement)
Used 2 different screen calibration apps (minor improvement)
Installed debloated ROM (only one available; no improvement)
Removed some unnecessary system apps (will be removing more to free up space....)
Disabled settings that affect device speed such as animations
Several different stylus types (the most expensive work worst )
So, is anyone else finding this an issue? Is there a fix I don't know about? Is/are there a kernel tweak or something that will speed up screen response time?
I bought this tablet in part so I could use it for handwriting input using a stylus on a larger screen than my teeny S5. Unfortunately, the screen response is far too inconsistent and ...well, slow than I'd expected.
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Click to collapse
Unfortunately the drivers or the touchscreen hardware itself for the T280/T285 is not that good. I have a drawing app that I created myself and the touch event update rate is so slow it creates jagged lines. Best case is that it is a driver issue and we can fix it in the kernel, worst case the hardware just sucks and it is what it is. On my OMNIRom 6.0.1 SM-T285 device touch response is actually ok, it is the update rate and precision of the touch which is a problem.
Thank you so much for the quick reply, and for understanding what I mean.
jedld said:
On my OMNIRom 6.0.1 SM-T285 device touch response is actually ok, it is the update rate and precision of the touch which is a problem.
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Congrats on getting most of the bugs out of that ROM! It was SO disappointing to read the "fine print" on your OMNIRom and discover I couldn't use it, as it looks pretty sleek, but you're helping others immensely with your work.
jedld said:
Unfortunately the drivers or the touchscreen hardware itself for the T280/T285 is not that good. I have a drawing app that I created myself and the touch event update rate is so slow it creates jagged lines. Best case is that it is a driver issue and we can fix it in the kernel, worst case the hardware just sucks and it is what it is.
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Click to collapse
Hooray for drivers being a possibility! There's something can be done about that!!
Do you find that the lines aren't quite as jagged running OMNIRom as with stock?
How would someone find out whether it's the hardware or the drivers?
Are the differences between 280/85 so extreme that I can't try anything on my own?
Is there anywhere I can "sign up" for testing any new tweaks or ROMs or kernels?
(Update on the issue: I ran the "screen calibration" test again and it says it's taken another 10ms off the response time. Not sure if I'm imagining it but it feels as if it's actually faster...)
I was also thinking, would the DPI have anything to do with the jagged appearance? Between this tablet and the 2 others I was looking at (both Galaxy - previous 7-inch and 9-inch) those had much better DPI ...or am I thinking of resolution? Those aren't the same thing, are they? In any case, it's worth checking into whether fiddling with the DPI might do any damage.
Do you find that the lines aren't quite as jagged running OMNIRom as with stock?
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I think it is just as bad
How would someone find out whether it's the hardware or the drivers?
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Click to collapse
We will need someone to tinker with the kernel sources to found out. For the SM-T280 someone is working on making the kernel sources work. Unfortunately, though annoying it isn't really on the top of my list right now.
Are the differences between 280/85 so extreme that I can't try anything on my own?
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Click to collapse
Devs working on the devices are actually surprised that there are more differences as expected for two devices that share the same family name.
Is there anywhere I can "sign up" for testing any new tweaks or ROMs or kernels?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just go through xda for my testing.
I was also thinking, would the DPI have anything to do with the jagged appearance? Between this tablet and the 2 others I was looking at (both Galaxy - previous 7-inch and 9-inch) those had much better DPI ...or am I thinking of resolution? Those aren't the same thing, are they? In any case, it's worth checking into whether fiddling with the DPI might do any damage.
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Click to collapse
Based on the software codepath, DPI shouldn't really affect touch performance.
I wound up returning it and picking up the 7" Galaxy Tab E Lite (SM-113), which seems to suit my needs much better. While it's much more limited in some ways - no custom ROMs, limited to KK4.4.4, same small internal storage issue - the screen response is WAY better and I can get around the annoyances (largely - no, SOLELY - due to all the things this forum has taught me over the years. :highfive:
jedld said:
Based on the software codepath, DPI shouldn't really affect touch performance.
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You were right. But it was fun to play around with! And I learned a few things in doing so.
We will need someone to tinker with the kernel sources to found out. For the SM-T280 someone is working on making the kernel sources work.
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I sure hope that someone figures this out soon because it's a pretty sweet little tablet, otherwise, and I can't be the only one for whom this is a deal-breaker.
Unfortunately, though annoying it isn't really on the top of my list right now.
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I totally appreciate that your time is valuable, and thank you immensely for taking the time to respond.
Similar issue
Hi,
Was wondering if anyone with these issues also experienced this: While the tablet is on, when watching something for instance, if the touch screen isn't used for a bit (say over 30 seconds) when I first press it it doesn't respond at all, to get it to wake up I have to press quite firmly, usually several times, before it starts working. Once it does respond I can use a much lighter touch so it doesn't seem like a screen protector or overall sensitivity problem, it's as if the screen goes into some kind of sleep mode becoming much less sensitive.
Anyone know about this/how to fix it?
Much love,
Tom
Pardon the rather simple problem, but I couldn't find a suitable answer.
I have an old (and functioning) rooted NST that I'd like to revamp, however I have no idea which firmware version and custom ROM is installed in there. Is there a way (via adb or app) to find out what's inside?
marcoNST said:
Pardon the rather simple problem, but I couldn't find a suitable answer.
I have an old (and functioning) rooted NST that I'd like to revamp, however I have no idea which firmware version and custom ROM is installed in there. Is there a way (via adb or app) to find out what's inside?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The B&N Settings app should identify the firmware number--unless that was disabled or deleted. If that does not work, put together a NookManager card and start it up. It will identify the firmware (without making any changes.
(or ask and I'll post a copy of the B&N Settings app)
A custom ROM (kernal?) would be harder to figure out. If it's overclocked (one of guevor's kernals?) some kind of CPU governor app (like NoFrillsCPU) would show that it can run faster than 800 MHz. Otherwise, if the status bar display is normal it's probably not the 1337 ROM and could be running some other kernal that is not overclocked. Does it run either NoRefresh or FastMode? Only one kernal (166) runs both and the overclocked kernals typically run FastMode, while those that are not(except 166) typically run NoRefresh.
Probably something more subtle, but I don't know what it might be.
Hi @nmyshkin
Thanks for your help!
I've downloaded and just installed 166 kernel (over whatever was in there before) and NoRefresh, but no joy. Not working. (FastMode2 works) Checked the CPU with noFrills CPU and it runs up to 1Ghz.
Checked the FW, it is 1.2.1.
marcoNST said:
Hi @nmyshkin
Thanks for your help!
I've downloaded and just installed 166 kernel (over whatever was in there before) and NoRefresh, but no joy. Not working. (FastMode2 works) Checked the CPU with noFrills CPU and it runs up to 1Ghz.
Checked the FW, it is 1.2.1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you use this NoRefresh: https://github.com/marcelogp/NoRefreshToggle/downloads, i.e., the debug2 version?
I did.
I have a very erratic behaviour, I have 2 different behaviours:
1. when I press "Norefresh", the screen gets a grey-ish layer that make all the app icons in ReLaunch look blur and there is no fast refresh.
2. when I press "NoRefresh", the screen turns into "no refresh" mode, but it disappears at the first scroll down (or up)
FastMode works OK though.
marcoNST said:
I did.
I have a very erratic behaviour, I have 2 different behaviours:
1. when I press "Norefresh", the screen gets a grey-ish layer that make all the app icons in ReLaunch look blur and there is no fast refresh.
2. when I press "NoRefresh", the screen turns into "no refresh" mode, but it disappears at the first scroll down (or up)
FastMode works OK though.
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Click to collapse
What you describe sounds familiar. I think at one time I probably used kernal 166 and was totally puzzled by all the oohs-and-aahs over NoRefresh. I could never get it to display anything useful. My suggestion to you was based on this recent exchange: https://forum.xda-developers.com/nook-touch/general/fastmode-norefresh-nook-simple-touch-t3868484 but now that I have gone back to it I see the guy was running FW 1.1.2. So whether the issue is with FW 1.2.1 or with the debug2 version of NoRefresh, I'm not sure. So, my bad.
FWIW, having run FastMode for a long time before I completely redid my NST, and now having a working NoRefresh instead (with FW 1.2.2), for me there is no contest between the two for text. The dithering and ghosting in FastMode is not good for reading, IMO. I might go so far as to say that NoRefresh is even better at video because I feel the limited contrast options are better than the ghosting of FastMode. But that's me. It's an individual thing and we each use our devices differently.