Database Users

After 2 Weeks, I Am Throwing In The Towel

I received the Samsung Focus 2 weeks ago today. After I post this I will be heading over to Amazon Wireless to make return arrangements.
I come from a Windows Mobile (Tilt 2) and I don't think I am yet ready to transition to this type of phone. I depend too much on Pocket Informant and I couldn't find any app to replace that. Actually this is not really the reason I gave up. This is the reason that kept me on the fence.
At my work I have a very poor 3G signal indoors. The signal fluctuates between 2 bars to no signal indication and sometimes switching to Edge. With the Tilt 2 I turn off 3G and that keeps the phone happy. Several times I found the Focus showing no signal (small crossed out circle at the top left). Even after I went to an area with good 3G signal the Focus did not change from its no signal status. I had to actually turn it off and back on (soft reset, I guess) to get a strong 3G signal.
Searching on Google for means to turn 3G off in the Focus showed that only a few months ago there was such an option Settings | Cellular. Apparently now it is removed.
With 3G trying desperately to hang in there instead of just giving up and letting Edge take over, this phone is useless to me 8 to 12 hours a day. The Tilt 2 had a similar issue before I tweaked it to give me the band switch. However the Tilt 2 did not get stuck in the no signal state. I wish AT&T did not remove this from settings.
So long, Focus.

Um... there's totally still an option called Cellular in Settings. Whatever, though. If you don't enjoy the phone, there's no reason for you to keep it. However, there's equally no reason for you to share this information with us, since a large part of your issue is born of ignorance of the OS (not finding a setting that is clearly there) and your lack of enjoyment of the phone should have no effect on anyone who owns one.

FishFaceMcGee said:
Um... there's totally still an option called Cellular in Settings. Whatever, though. If you don't enjoy the phone, there's no reason for you to keep it. However, there's equally no reason for you to share this information with us, since a large part of your issue is born of ignorance of the OS (not finding a setting that is clearly there) and your lack of enjoyment of the phone should have no effect on anyone who owns one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, the Cellular option is still there, in Settings. However, unlike screen shots or pictures I saw during my search (see this sample), I do not have the option to turn off 3G.
If your phone has it, good for you. Mine does not. Hardly a reason to call me ignorant for this though.

That's strange. My Focus appears to have better reception than my Tilt 2.
Actually, the 3G only setting is under the diagnostic menu I believe. The should have a thread in this forum on it.
Update
I checked and its under the test menu
*#32489#
Back
Back
[7] Network control
[2] Band Setting
This may help you.

Tempest790 said:
That's strange. My Focus appears to have better reception than my Tilt 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For me, side by side, the 2 phones had a similar reception. The Tilt 2 got an extra bar or 2 when I forced it to Edge. However, the Tilt 2 did not get stuck with the no signal indication.
Actually, the 3G only setting is under the diagnostic menu I believe. The should have a thread in this forum on it.
Update
I checked and its under the test menu
*#32489#
Back
Back
[7] Network control
[2] Band Setting
This may help you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While at this moment I do not have the phone with me, I just looked in the PDF I downloaded from that other thread (the PDF shows [2] Band Selection) and I remember that I was in that area and when I tried to make a change I got a message saying something about the selection or option being restricted. Sorry, but I do not remember the exact words. I guess I could try again later tonight after I get home. Thank you.

Tempest790 said:
Update
I checked and its under the test menu
*#32489#
Back
Back
[7] Network control
[2] Band Setting
This may help you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I select "[2] Band Selection" the exact message is:
"RAT Selection option is restricted".

Yeah, that's what I got. I also got my phone from freaking Amazon.com and didn't work right. Had do alittle talking around but they me exchange it at the Att Wireless Store. Have you actually tried any other Samsung Focus Phones to see if its just the phone itself?

I got mine from att store, I'm using the org diagnostic app version, I get same error message.

Seed 2.0 said:
I got mine from att store, I'm using the org diagnostic app version, I get same error message.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would switch phones then. The phone has to be unlocked to switch bands, even turning off 3G. That's stupid, I know. I have a Dell Venue Pro sitting here that can switch bands but that phone is VERY buggy.

Fuzzy John said:
Yes, the Cellular option is still there, in Settings. However, unlike screen shots or pictures I saw during my search (see this sample), I do not have the option to turn off 3G.
If your phone has it, good for you. Mine does not. Hardly a reason to call me ignorant for this though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FWIW: 3G = "Data Connection" on the Focus' settings menu. As far as I know, 3G has nothing to do with voice calls. I suspect that the name of that switch was changed with an eye toward future data options on cell phones. I hope that helps. (Even the person who posted that picture notes that they modified the label to be "Cellular Data". You can see that in the comments area of the image/post that you listed. )

GrayWolf is correct
These are GSM phone and voice only works on 2G.. data on 3G and Edge if necessary. that is why you can talk and use the internet at the same time. You turning 3G off does nothing for your call reception what so ever. When you turn off the Celluar data you turn off both 3G and edge. Also I believe the bars are only for the voice service.

ITDRAGON said:
GrayWolf is correct
These are GSM phone and voice only works on 2G.. data on 3G and Edge if necessary. that is why you can talk and use the internet at the same time. You turning 3G off does nothing for your call reception what so ever. When you turn off the Celluar data you turn off both 3G and edge. Also I believe the bars are only for the voice service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This might very well be correct, however on my Tilt 2 I have to turn off 3g in order to get full voice bars back in the location where my room is in my house. It doesn't seem to make any sense; why would the phone's 3g connection interfere w/ the 2g voice? Yet it seems like this is the case.

ITDRAGON said:
GrayWolf is correct
These are GSM phone and voice only works on 2G.. data on 3G and Edge if necessary. that is why you can talk and use the internet at the same time. You turning 3G off does nothing for your call reception what so ever. When you turn off the Celluar data you turn off both 3G and edge. Also I believe the bars are only for the voice service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry. I may have used the wrong terms. After all I admit I am not really familiar with all the terminology. I am more like a user. Anyway, on my Tilt 2 phone I have a switch which turn off 3G. This puts the phone in Edge mode. Gives me a lot better reception in areas where the 3G signal is flaky. True, I cannot talk and do data at the same time. Also true that my data rate is slower. But I can receive and make calls while I am in that area.

ITDRAGON said:
GrayWolf is correct
These are GSM phone and voice only works on 2G.. data on 3G and Edge if necessary. that is why you can talk and use the internet at the same time. You turning 3G off does nothing for your call reception what so ever. When you turn off the Celluar data you turn off both 3G and edge. Also I believe the bars are only for the voice service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Both voice and data work on 3G if it is available. You can tell this by the fact that once your phone is on 3G, you will not encounter the annoying speaker buzz from GSM phones.
The switch in the settings are for cell data connection. If you turn it off, it turns off the data connection, 2G or 3G. There is no separate setting to turn off 3G data only (a commonly requested feature but non-existent on all AT&T phones). You will always have to access the secret menu to select your band (WCDMA or GSM).
The bars are for signal strength, not just for vocie service.

EDIT: rjohnstone
foxbat121 said:
Nope. Both voice and data work on 3G if it is available. You can tell this by the fact that once your phone is on 3G, you will not encounter the annoying speaker buzz from GSM phones.
The switch in the settings are for cell data connection. If you turn it off, it turns off the data connection, 2G or 3G. There is no separate setting to turn off 3G data only (a commonly requested feature but non-existent on all AT&T phones). You will always have to access the secret menu to select your band (WCDMA or GSM).
The bars are for signal strength, not just for vocie service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
<snipped my "you're wrong" message, but leaving my other data here.>
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3G contains the following quote:
"The UMTS system, first offered in 2001, standardized by 3GPP, used primarily in Europe, Japan, China (however with a different radio interface) and other regions predominated by GSM 2G system infrastructure. The cell phones are typically UMTS and GSM hybrids. Several radio interfaces are offered, sharing the same infrastructure"
<snipped my "you're wrong" message, but leaving my other data here.>
http://www.phonescoop.com/phones/phone.php?p=2877
"Modes GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
WCDMA 850 / 1900 / 2100"
Those are the GSM and 3G bands that the Samsung Focus uses. <snipped my "you're wrong" message, but leaving my other data here.>
I'm always willing to accept that I can be wrong (EDIT: and it seems that I was). I'm only human after all. If I'm the one who's somehow misunderstanding, then I would be open to having some information shared so that I can learn more about it. Would you have any links to back your claim up?

GrayWolf said:
I'm sorry to say that you've misunderstood how AT&T's network is set up. 3G + GSM = Data + Voice. Not 3G = Voice & Data.
contains the following quote:
"The UMTS system, first offered in 2001, standardized by 3GPP, used primarily in Europe, Japan, China (however with a different radio interface) and other regions predominated by GSM 2G system infrastructure. The cell phones are typically UMTS and GSM hybrids. Several radio interfaces are offered, sharing the same infrastructure"
To further back the position that our phones do not use 3G to carry voice data:
"Modes GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
WCDMA 850 / 1900 / 2100"
Those are the GSM and 3G bands that the Samsung Focus uses. GSM for voice traffic, WCDMA (3G) for data.
I'm always willing to accept that I can be wrong. I'm only human after all. If I'm the one who's somehow misunderstanding, then I would be open to having some information shared so that I can learn more about it. Would you have any links to back your claim up?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T sends both voice and data traffic over the 3G connection when in a 3G area.
The GSM radio only comes into play when the data connection falls back to EDGE (i.e., 3G signal is too weak or not present).
This is why your call drops when you switch from a 3G area to a GSM/EDGE area.
It's a hard hand off to the next tower.

rjohnstone said:
AT&T sends both voice and data traffic over the 3G connection when in a 3G area.
The GSM radio only comes into play when the data connection falls back to EDGE (i.e., 3G signal is too weak or not present).
This is why your call drops when you switch from a 3G area to a GSM/EDGE area.
It's a hard hand off to the next tower.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks - would you happen to have any links that explains this in any detail?
I looked around after you mentioned it and found that I should have ran a few more keyword searches before posting. So far, the best explanation that I've found seems to be here:
"3G or Non 3G-that is the question"
http://forums.wireless.att.com/t5/G...at-is-the-question/m-p/1544262/highlight/true
The specific/relevant portion that I'm referring to is:
Yea 3G is amazing. It's the replacement for GSM. It's a completely seperate network. When in 3G at present signal in some area's might seem a bit more week than GSM because in some area's it runs on the 1900mhz frequency which has less penetration. But AT&T has plans of phasing out GSM in the future for 3G on the GSM frequency.
But 3G on the W-CDMA side handles call's and data, GSM also does handle voice and data. But the two networks are seperate. For example. If your phone is in 3G then the 3G network is handling the call and not transmitting anything to do with GSM at all. But if you travel to a non 3G area while in the call then your phone will hand off to the GSM network to continue the voice call and the call quality will get that crackly raspy phenomenom. Hope this helps!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now that's another person's statement on a forum and, like rjohnstone's post, makes logical sense. I'd love to read a bit more about this, if there are any useful links out there?

GrayWolf said:
Thanks - would you happen to have any links that explains this in any detail?
I looked around after you mentioned it and found that I should have ran a few more keyword searches before posting. So far, the best explanation that I've found seems to be here:
"3G or Non 3G-that is the question"
The specific/relevant portion that I'm referring to is:
Now that's another person's statement on a forum and, like rjohnstone's post, makes logical sense. I'd love to read a bit more about this, if there are any useful links out there?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Graywolf,
My friend is a tower manager for T-Mobile.
He helped setup the initial GSM/EDGE network for Cingular back when they leased tower time from T-Mobile while they were making the transition from TDMA devices from the old AT&T network.
He explained how the call handlers worked and how the air interface works when handing off from UMTS/HSPA over to the GSM/EDGE network.
All of AT&T's handsets are programmed to use either GSM/EDGE or UMTS/HSPA, not both at the same time.
The point is, a handset can't have a GSM voice call and an HSPA data session occurring at the same time. The radios are not configured to allow it.
Many towers run both GSM/EDGE radios and UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+ radios.
Mainly to support legacy devices.
You will also notice that the old network is still there when you turn of the 3G radio in an iPhone or any other handset that permits it.
Yes, AT&T is working to decommission the older GSM/EDGE towers all together to recover the 850Mhz frequencies for use with HSPA+. This will give them better building penetration in large metropolitan areas.
Right now, AT&T does use the 1900MHz band for HSPA, and as the residence of NY will tell you, it sucks at going through walls.
You will have to do some digging for old AT&T press releases, but the info is out there.

Gotta give credit where it's due. I appreciate the technical detail combined with layman phrasing. I'll do more digging later but you've given me a nice high-level view of things. I did have a suspicion that my understanding was flawed somehow. Thanks for taking the time to share, rjohnstone!

Yep your right I typed it wrong.. voice and data both work on 2G and 3G, but I know I'm in a 3G area only and when I turn data off 3G goes out. Now that doesn't mean I'm only making or recieving calls on the 2G band. It just mean 3G data is off. So if you want to turn off 3G all together, I don't see it on these phones yet. When I turn the celluar data back on, the 3G symbol comes back on, because it would be pretty dumb for the 3G to be controlled by turning data on and off.

Galaxy S5 LTE will not connect. This Fix worked for me.

I followed the instructions like another thread comment said to do but for some reason I couldn't get it to work still but after playing around I was able to get it working.
---- Instructions for enabling: (thanks eyecon82) ----
1. dial ##3282#
2. then click edit (need MSL code) (I used SPCUtility.apk as nothing else worked on my S5)
3. then click LTE
4. It will show LTE ( also known as Band 25), Band 3, Band 26, Band 41 ( I unchecked marked all of these but the LTE option leave that check marked to on)
5. Disable all bands leave LTE check mark to say on.
6. Go to the main directory by hitting back key and choose More at the bottom
7. Choose HDR/1X Selection and choose LTE only Mode. Click OK to save
8. You can either reboot or I just turn on airplane mode and turn it back off to reset the connection.
9. LTE should be working like mine did. But you will not get phone calls until you turn back on the HDR/1X Selection to LTE + CDMA +EVDO Mode but you will get text messages fine.
The items that are underlined in Red are the stuff i added.
---- To tell what Band on: ----
1. ##debug#
2. enter passcode 777468
3. go to LTE engineering menu
I hope this helps because all the other stuff I read would not work for my Galaxy S5 I just bought.
Thanks

One more thing
I read on here http://s4gru.com/index.php?/blog/1/...-due-to-circuit-switched-fallback-technology/
that this problem should be fixed soon but if you need LTE now here it is.

darhoade said:
I read on here http://s4gru.com/index.php?/blog/1/...-due-to-circuit-switched-fallback-technology/
that this problem should be fixed soon but if you need LTE now here it is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info. However, I think its crazy to want to set it up for LTE when you cannot receive phone calls especially since this is you know, is a phone. Calling Sprint and talking about this situation is useless. They all say nothing is wrong and its the device. I'm really pissed off about this but I enjoy the phone. This will probably be the last Sprint phone I will get.
Sent from my SM-G900P using xda app-developers app

pastert33 said:
Thanks for the info. However, I think its crazy to want to set it up for LTE when you cannot receive phone calls especially since this is you know, is a phone. Calling Sprint and talking about this situation is useless. They all say nothing is wrong and its the device. I'm really pissed off about this but I enjoy the phone. This will probably be the last Sprint phone I will get.
Sent from my SM-G900P using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use it at night or in places that I need fast internet and when I know I dont need a phone for a bit which is why I have voicemail I just switch over to LTE for a bit and then back...but yes it sucks for now until they upgrade the tower over here with the feature needed to use LTE spark devices.
Im loyal to sprint but its becoming more and more hard to be loyal.

Probably just your area, not the phone.
Your area may have LTE but if it doesn't have the circuit fall back enabled yet (tri-band phones) can't drop the data to allow a call and thus they force you to remain on 3G only.
Once your area has everything done it should get better.
I have similar situation that KILLS my battery at home but in every other part of town it all works great :/

bryanu said:
Probably just your area, not the phone.
Your area may have LTE but if it doesn't have the circuit fall back enabled yet (tri-band phones) can't drop the data to allow a call and thus they force you to remain on 3G only.
Once your area has everything done it should get better.
I have similar situation that KILLS my battery at home but in every other part of town it all works great :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Found out from reading the Sprint forums (https://community.sprint.com/baw/thread/157300?start=0&tstart=0), that this is likely not caused by the circuit fallback, but incomplete rollouts of Spark technology. Disabling the new Spark bands has helped me keep a stable LTE connection. Once the Spark rollout is complete in my area, and Band 26 can support both Voice and Data, I'll re-enable it the new spark bands.

sporklover said:
Found out from reading the Sprint forums (https://community.sprint.com/baw/thread/157300?start=0&tstart=0), that this is likely not caused by the circuit fallback, but incomplete rollouts of Spark technology. Disabling the new Spark bands has helped me keep a stable LTE connection. Once the Spark rollout is complete in my area, and Band 26 can support both Voice and Data, I'll re-enable it the new spark bands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which bands did you disable? Also, are you able to get voice calls when you LTE?
Im a bit frustrated be the place I spend most of my time (where I used to get LTE fine with my S3) I no longer get LTE and its super slow 3g. Calling sprint didn't help, they just say to wait until cell tower updates are finished in the next 6 months.
If I disable the Spart bands, will I be able to keep LTE and voice? Thanks

master4g said:
Which bands did you disable? Also, are you able to get voice calls when you LTE?
Im a bit frustrated be the place I spend most of my time (where I used to get LTE fine with my S3) I no longer get LTE and its super slow 3g. Calling sprint didn't help, they just say to wait until cell tower updates are finished in the next 6 months.
If I disable the Spart bands, will I be able to keep LTE and voice? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I disabled bands 26 and 41. This forces the phone to use the default sprint LTE band. It receives voice calls just fine.

sporklover said:
I disabled bands 26 and 41. This forces the phone to use the default sprint LTE band. It receives voice calls just fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But if you enabled the spark LTE bands like the default settings, will you LTE work or does it fall back to 3g? Thanks

master4g said:
But if you enabled the spark LTE bands like the default settings, will you LTE work or does it fall back to 3g? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE works fine because it defaults to the standard LTE band.

sporklover said:
LTE works fine because it defaults to the standard LTE band.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then is there any benefit in disabling the other bands?

master4g said:
Then is there any benefit in disabling the other bands?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read the sprint link. Incomplete rollout of spark, in particular on band 26 can cause the issue of not being able to switch between 4G and 3G and back.

[Q] N900V KK4.4.2 Can't enable 4G LTE

Hello,
I recently purchased a Samsung Note 3 SM-900V. As a previous Note 1 user I wanted to upgrade my device as I really enjoyed my Note 1.
I use a carrier called Simple Mobile, they are a sub carrier to T-Mobile. Meaning of course, that they use the T-Mobile network.
The problem is this: Simple Mobile (T-Mobile) prefers to use 3g/4g/LTE connections for their data and texting services. Meanwhile, Verizon uses H+ connections primarily, or as I understand it. This difference in signal, from what I can understand through a few days worth of research and combing forums, is the leading reason why my N900V wont upload/download pics, poor signal, etc. etc. DO bear in mind that Verizon software on this device forces the use of the H+ network though it does use 3G as well. Just never 4G or better.
From what I understand it is this H+ preference that the phone has me locked into that is causing my problems. It would seem that this device is capable of using 4G LTE and from my research, being able to use Band 4 would fix most all of my issues.
The major problems itemized are as follows:
Error message "This SIM is from an unknown source"
Unable to send/receive MMS texts
Reduced signal strength when compared to using my same SIM in my Note 1 side by side in pinpoint locations
Complete loss of signal in areas where SIM/Note 1 device had very good signal
As such, from what I can understand, if this device could access Band 4 then it would communicate with the Simple Mobile/T-Mobile network and erase the Sim card error message, send MMS and receive, and finally.... match the coverage I was accustomed to before I used this SIM on this device.
I've have considered a few solutions to include rooting the note 3 so I can enable 4G LTE, installing a factory version of KK 4.4.2 without the Verizon Brand and its bloatware forcing me to use H+ and as a final resort, selling the device (which I do not want to do). Though none of these options seem possible considering I'm using a N900V. At least not without bricking it.
Each time I think I've found a solution, there's a compatibility issue with my device, the software/firmware version, the chipset, etc, etc.
I've attached a screenshot that details some of the specs of this particular phone.
Any options or help would be appreciated.

Welcome Wallace
ok, thanks
so basically, you bought a verizon phone and using a sim card of another network.
Have you tried ringing verizon and asking them about this problem.
I have installed roms on uk version samsung S and S2.
What we now need to know is if American version supports Band 4 at all....I hope someone answers your questions here...
Admins/Moderators here should be able to give us a good answer.

Did you try...
Wallace Bagwell said:
Hello,
I recently purchased a Samsung Note 3 SM-900V. As a previous Note 1 user I wanted to upgrade my device as I really enjoyed my Note 1.
I use a carrier called Simple Mobile, they are a sub carrier to T-Mobile. Meaning of course, that they use the T-Mobile network.
The problem is this: Simple Mobile (T-Mobile) prefers to use 3g/4g/LTE connections for their data and texting services. Meanwhile, Verizon uses H+ connections primarily, or as I understand it. This difference in signal, from what I can understand through a few days worth of research and combing forums, is the leading reason why my N900V wont upload/download pics, poor signal, etc. etc. DO bear in mind that Verizon software on this device forces the use of the H+ network though it does use 3G as well. Just never 4G or better.
From what I understand it is this H+ preference that the phone has me locked into that is causing my problems. It would seem that this device is capable of using 4G LTE and from my research, being able to use Band 4 would fix most all of my issues.
The major problems itemized are as follows:
Error message "This SIM is from an unknown source"
Unable to send/receive MMS texts
Reduced signal strength when compared to using my same SIM in my Note 1 side by side in pinpoint locations
Complete loss of signal in areas where SIM/Note 1 device had very good signal
As such, from what I can understand, if this device could access Band 4 then it would communicate with the Simple Mobile/T-Mobile network and erase the Sim card error message, send MMS and receive, and finally.... match the coverage I was accustomed to before I used this SIM on this device.
I've have considered a few solutions to include rooting the note 3 so I can enable 4G LTE, installing a factory version of KK 4.4.2 without the Verizon Brand and its bloatware forcing me to use H+ and as a final resort, selling the device (which I do not want to do). Though none of these options seem possible considering I'm using a N900V. At least not without bricking it.
Each time I think I've found a solution, there's a compatibility issue with my device, the software/firmware version, the chipset, etc, etc.
I've attached a screenshot that details some of the specs of this particular phone.
Any options or help would be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've got the same phone and I was able to 4G LTE to run by changing the Network Mode setting to Global.
Settings/More Settings/Mobile Networks/Network Mode.
It may not switch immediately but will eventually switch.

Help Wanted!!!
Is this post helpful for a samsung sm-n905v
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2582747

I did switch to Global. No success.
amerjames said:
Is this post helpful for a samsung sm-n905v
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2582747
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is on global now and still only fluctuates between 3G and H+. Never 4G or LTE.
I've read about this issue from others but the fix was to root and then switch the phone to use band 4 by default.

Wallace Bagwell said:
It is on global now and still only fluctuates between 3G and H+. Never 4G or LTE.
I've read about this issue from others but the fix was to root and then switch the phone to use band 4 by default.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try "3g/4g/lte" instead of global? Band 4 is the latest and greatest and not available everywhere yet. The normal band you should see is band 13 (at least for me). There is a good thread in the "General" section on "Service Modes" you should look at.

Wallace Bagwell said:
It is on global now and still only fluctuates between 3G and H+. Never 4G or LTE.
I've read about this issue from others but the fix was to root and then switch the phone to use band 4 by default.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Band 4 is Verizon....not T-mobile. T-Mobile has very limited 4G and what it has it HSPA.
Sent from my Note 3 via Tapatalk

bd177 said:
Did you try "3g/4g/lte" instead of global? Band 4 is the latest and greatest and not available everywhere yet. The normal band you should see is band 13 (at least for me). There is a good thread in the "General" section on "Service Modes" you should look at.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have tried the CDMA/LTE/EVDO option under network settings but I doesnt seem to work any better. It still gives me the "SIM card is from an unknown source" error message and will not load or send MMS at all.
I will look at the serve modes section and see what it says. Thanks!

donc113 said:
Band 4 is Verizon....not T-mobile. T-Mobile has very limited 4G and what it has it HSPA.
Sent from my Note 3 via Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, I didn't see that he was on T-Mobile .

donc113 said:
Band 4 is Verizon....not T-mobile. T-Mobile has very limited 4G and what it has it HSPA.
That may be true. I'm not sure and I cant validate it. However, it would seem from what I am reading that I need to switch it to B4.
I haven't rooted it and still looking for a way to root a KK 4.4.2 N900V. Once I have access to that menu I can test whether these methods from other threads and sites are accurate.
I'm not saying you are wrong by the way but under the current settings my phone doesn't talk to my network and incurs an entire host of other problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

bd177 said:
Ah, I didn't see that he was on T-Mobile .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm actually on Simple Mobile but it is a subcarrier under T-Mobile

Wallace Bagwell said:
I'm actually on Simple Mobile but it is a subcarrier under T-Mobile
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Check out this thread -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2570569

donc113 said:
Band 4 is Verizon....not T-mobile. T-Mobile has very limited 4G and what it has it HSPA.
Sent from my Note 3 via Tapatalk
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That may be true. I'm not sure and I cant validate it. However, it would seem from what I am reading that I need to be connected to B4 if I am not already like you insist. If I am, then it still isnt working like it should.
I read this thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2582747) and it sort of supports what you and I are both saying. However, at the root of the problem, I need to be able to root.
I haven't rooted it and still looking for a way to root a KK 4.4.2 N900V. Once I have access to that menu I can test whether these methods from other threads and sites are accurate.
I'm not saying you are wrong by the way but under the current settings my phone doesn't talk to my network and incurs an entire host of other problems.

Wallace Bagwell said:
That may be true. I'm not sure and I cant validate it. However, it would seem from what I am reading that I need to be connected to B4 if I am not already like you insist. If I am, then it still isnt working like it should.
I read this thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2582747) and it sort of supports what you and I are both saying. However, at the root of the problem, I need to be able to root.
I haven't rooted it and still looking for a way to root a KK 4.4.2 N900V. Once I have access to that menu I can test whether these methods from other threads and sites are accurate.
I'm not saying you are wrong by the way but under the current settings my phone doesn't talk to my network and incurs an entire host of other problems.
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If you are on the NC4 OTA then use towelroot. Do a search for "KK root" and you will find all the methods available for all versions.

Wallace Bagwell said:
I have tried the CDMA/LTE/EVDO option under network settings but I doesnt seem to work any better. It still gives me the "SIM card is from an unknown source" error message and will not load or send MMS at all.
I will look at the serve modes section and see what it says. Thanks!
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T-Mobile is GSM, Verizon is CDMA.
Sent from my Note 3 via Tapatalk

bd177 said:
If you are on the NC4 OTA then use towelroot. Do a search for "KK root" and you will find all the methods available for all versions.
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How do I know if I'm using NC4 OTA?

donc113 said:
T-Mobile is GSM, Verizon is CDMA.
Sent from my Note 3 via Tapatalk
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I have switched from global to GSM under network settings. Going to see how that works. I get poor service with global setting but I do get service. Under CDMA I get zero signal. Even though I had 3 bars a second ago under global.
I'll let it sit on GSM for a few hours and see how that works.

amerjames said:
Is this post helpful for a samsung sm-n905v
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2582747
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I read the entire article a few times just to see what it had to say about my problem. Unfortunately, it does state that I must be rooted to even proceed with most steps.
Back to square one. I need to root it, however, the threads on here that refer to rooting with the N900V and KK 4.4.2 in mind say that there is not any way to root this device with this operating system.
:crying:

bd177 said:
If you are on the NC4 OTA then use towelroot. Do a search for "KK root" and you will find all the methods available for all versions.
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Hey there,
So i followed the instructions for towel root, both versions, and I dont think the change took.
I installed ES File Explorer to make some changes from the advice of another thread and those changes cant be made because I cant find the file or the directory. Even after enabling options for root and display hidden files.
So, even after installing Towel Root, when I go to access the service menu using any of the codes I get no action whatsoever.
Im still in the same boat as well as far as not finding a proper KK 4.4.2 root file/method for N900V that does not follow itself with threads saying how it doesnt work at all.
Is there another way to root that I'm not considering or havent found yet?
Thanks for listening.

Try this:
-Dial *#27663368378#
-UE settings & info
-Settings
-Protocol
-Nas
-Network control
-Pref mode set
-Choose GSM_WCDMA_LTE_ONLY
You may need to reboot. This worked for me on NC2 with a MetroPCS sim. If it fails then double check your APN. You may also try to factory reset the phone with your Sim inside. When you do a clean install you get more options under Network Mode in settings.

Switch Network Modes!

Sorry, I'm a little new to the AT&T Note 3 as I was used to T-Mobile and their phones (still use their network by the way)...So, I was looking around to see if I could switch my network modes (e.g. GSM,WCDMA,LTE, or combinations of both). Its pretty helpful if you need to switch to WCDMA,GSM, or other modes. Some of you may know it, but I am new to this stuff and hopefully I help others who don't know much about this either. On your dialer, enter *#*#4636#*#* then press device information and you'll be able to switch network modes! Just found that out and wanted to enlighten others. Press that thumbs up if this was somewhat helpful!

we already know this but thanks. And to get 4G on an att note 3 is pretty much useless without enabling the AWS bands.

YoungDev said:
Sorry, I'm a little new to the AT&T Note 3 as I was used to T-Mobile and their phones (still use their network by the way)...So, I was looking around to see if I could switch my network modes (e.g. GSM,WCDMA,LTE, or combinations of both). Its pretty helpful if you need to switch to WCDMA,GSM, or other modes. Some of you may know it, but I am new to this stuff and hopefully I help others who don't know much about this either. On your dialer, enter *#*#4636#*#* then press device information and you'll be able to switch network modes! Just found that out and wanted to enlighten others. Press that thumbs up if this was somewhat helpful!
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On all of my past AT&T Phones, I never had this stick for me. The phone would always switch back to LTE after a short time. I am using Intelli3G with Xposed and I can now successfully turn off LTE when I need to with a toggle.

PeteSeiler2010 said:
On all of my past AT&T Phones, I never had this stick for me. The phone would always switch back to LTE after a short time. I am using Intelli3G with Xposed and I can now successfully turn off LTE when I need to with a toggle.
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Why do you switch to 3G, is 4G in your area spotty?

Netrunner157 said:
Why do you switch to 3G, is 4G in your area spotty?
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The building that i work in seems to almost block the LTE signal for all AT&T phones. There are a few of us in my department that have issues with this. The phone will constantly switch between 4G and LTE, this also causes the phone battery to die faster. Since we can't flash an unlocked radio the Note 3, the Xposed module was my best bet. As soon as i switch over to the just 4G by making my phone use WCDM only, I have no issues with signal. Using the hidden menu, (*#*#4636#*#*), and switching it to WCDMA Only doesn't stick permanently. I had this issue once before with my Skyrocket, but with that phone you were able to flash a RAT Unlocked radio or a non-LTE radio on the phone and that would disable LTE as well. As soon as i step outside of my building, my LTE signal is strong and I have no issues at all.

In my jobs basement only people who get any sort of signal are people who have tmobile. Would this help me get signal as well?

It's worth a shot, it works flawlessly for me.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

I have to wonder if changing your network mode after a throttling would still allow good download speeds???????????????

Update: sadly changing to a different network mode does not work to remove a throttle. Neither does flashing a different modem. If only the bootloader was unlocked.... Crossing fingers and remaining hopeful with my blazing edge network speeds.: (

Can anyone tell me what the default mode is?

[Q] Only LTE mode

Hi how can i turn only lte mode on my unbranded g900f? Ive been trying different codes for service menu none of them were working. Anyone knows?

qucharski said:
Hi how can i turn only lte mode on my unbranded g900f? Ive been trying different codes for service menu none of them were working.
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It's hard to imagine a good reason for doing this. LTE is a power hungry mode and you'd end up with no service when 3G was available but LTE was not. Nevertheless you can set the band preference to LTE in the service mode menu. I don't believe that there is any explicit setting to set LTE exclusively unless you leave your phone in test mode, locked on one channel, which would have substantial drawbacks.
You could look into apps that claim to do what you want. I don't know how effective they might actually be.
.

qucharski said:
Hi how can i turn only lte mode on my unbranded g900f? Ive been trying different codes for service menu none of them were working. Anyone knows?
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LTE / 4G isn't always available so you would actually be without a data connection when it drops out of range, be it for bandwidth restrictions on the network side or simply bad coverage, dropping down to a heightened H+ or even 3G would mean a consistent connection instead of actually just losing your network.
Not a great idea i'm afraid.
Leaving it on a switch is the best method.

Imo it's also a bad idea, but if you really want to, there's an Xposed module. It's only for the G900F though.