Database Users

[Q] please help with my nexus....

I went to flash cyanogenmod 10.1.
backed up rom via clockwork.
wiped data, flashed new rom.
flashed gapps.
I think i flashed the wrong gapps
upon boot I get "setup wizard has stopped" as well as one regarding gapps.
this prevents me from using the rom. I can access the calender and clock that is all. not the settings or reboot menu.
I can access the built in storage via windows, shows up as a nexus 7.
Ok, not a big deal, I will boot into recovery via the bootloader.
That no longer works. Sits at a google screen forever
Ok, I will use fastboot via the bootloader....
That no longer works. As soon as a usb cable touches the nexus either power or pc it freezes the bootloader requires a reboot.
windows rejects the usb and states is malfunctioned and unrecognised (though it works fine in the rom)
fastboot doesn't see the device.
I've tried:
three usb cables.
windows safe mode.
different ports
uninstall/install drivers.
nexus tool kit (doesnt recognise device)
wiggling the cable as suggested
anybody got an idea how I can either get the bootloader not to freeze when using a usb cable or how to boot into some kind of recovery (which was there!!!!!)
please? :fingers-crossed:

Something seems a little off here.
Was it a gapps package for some other device? Hard to see why flashing something to /system would produce the result you got, as the (gapps) edify script would at most specify a mount of "system", not a /dev/block/ device name.
Does adb work (with the ROM booted)? If so, can you get a root shell or install .apks?
The fact that the ROM boots suggests that the bootloader is working correctly enough to load and execute the LNX (boot) image. That means that in principle you could flash (using the "dd" command) a recovery image to the boot partition from a root-privileged command line (either an adb session or a terminal emulator). Performing a regular (power button) restart would boot you into a recovery session.
Obviously, this hinges on you getting a command line somehow with your reduced-functionality ROM limping along as it is. It's not obvious to me how you will make that happen though.
I am not at all confident that this will fix the bootloader <--> USB issue without somehow reflashing the bootloader without using fastboot!. The only way this has been observed for the N7 has been with the OTA process and a stock recovery - the OTA puts an image (**note - important!** this OTA bootloader image is slightly different from the bootloader image in the factory/fastboot ROMs) into the USP partition and some magic occurs on the next boot.
Well, anyway there's some ideas. Would you mind identifying the "wrong" gapps that you used? For the life of me I can't see how it caused the symptoms you are observing...
good luck

Hi. Many thanks.
Ok.....
Gapps. I downloaded the appropriate package via the link on the Rom page. However, I flashed a jellybean package I'd downloaded for my one x. I may be naive in thinking that Gapps is Gapps no?
I deduced it was that having googled the setup wizard problem and seeing that others had had it.
Bootloader.
Again. Ive googled around and can see many have the freezing bootloader with usb issue. Some say its the cable. Some say its the pc. But it does it with the charger as well. Again this is an issue for some. not sure what to do! Works fine until the cable goes in.
Recovery.
Again I know its an issue booting recovery from bootloader. I've read you need the usb in to a pc to make it happen. Obviously that's a no go for me
Adb.
Never really used it. Used fastboot many times. I assumed you need to be able to access the developer options and activate debugging etc within the Rom to allow it to work? I can not do that. Its around 10% funtional. I can place a reminder on the calender but that's about it! No way to system settings.
Sorry if thats teaching you to suck eggs. You obviously know your stuff, just wanted to make it clear.
Ta.
Sent from my HTC One X+ using xda app-developers app

olly2097 said:
Recovery.
Again I know its an issue booting recovery from bootloader. I've read you need the usb in to a pc to make it happen. Obviously that's a no go for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A normally functioning tablet does NOT require you to be plugged in to a PC in order to boot the recovery from the bootloader menu. Maybe you are saying something else here, but I trust you've tried starting the recovery without anything plugged in at all.
Unless you can get the recovery working, the only hope you have is somehow levering up what you have available to gain a privileged thread of execution. Obviously that's going to be pretty challenging.
good luck - you're going to need it.
PS: could you provide a URL to the *wrong* One X gapps download? I think the gapps bundle ships with system libraries - I want to peek at those libs to see if there are any hardcoded block device paths that might explain the queerness you observed. (I can't imagine why this would be the case, but...)

bftb0 said:
A normally functioning tablet does NOT require you to be plugged in to a PC in order to boot the recovery from the bootloader menu. Maybe you are saying something else here, but I trust you've tried starting the recovery without anything plugged in at all.
Unless you can get the recovery working, the only hope you have is somehow levering up what you have available to gain a privileged thread of execution. Obviously that's going to be pretty challenging.
good luck - you're going to need it.
PS: could you provide a URL to the *wrong* One X gapps download? I think the gapps bundle ships with system libraries - I want to peek at those libs to see if there are any hardcoded block device paths that might explain the queerness you observed. (I can't imagine why this would be the case, but...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah, tried both ways.
The gapps I downloaded was a while ago. I've deleted it. was for 4.1.1
anyway. I....
Booted to bootloader, selected recovery, pressed power and rammed in the usb cable at the same time.
recovery
now running rom fine after flashing TW recovery via toolkit and mounting to pc.
I cant explain it. it took forever. but thank you

[GUIDE] Everything Explained.

Before you go ahead and start unlocking, flashing and rooting, there are things you should know. This thread is a general guide that will serve to explain most of those things.​
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Table of Contents
A. The layers (Hardware, Firmware, Software)
B. Definitions
C. Troubleshooting Common Issues
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The Layers. How does everything come together?
Just like any other computing device there are 3 Layers to your phone. It helps to realize this prior to modifying your phone, so you are able to troubleshoot issues more effectively.
Layer 1 Hardware: The hardware layer is the physical components of your phone. That which you can touch, hold and see. This layer is the least likely to be modified unless you are a crazy super master level modder. Very few bother to mess with this layer so this layer tends to be the most stable with very little issues arising. The best way to make sure a problem is not related to the hardware layer, that is to say, a physical hardware problem where a physical component needs replacing, is to return all software and firmware to stock. This is typically done by running an RUU or manually reflashing stock firmware and software. There are instances where software or firmware modifications can affect the hardware. For example, if you overclock your CPU, the added heat could permanently damage the CPU and even other hardware components so be sure to take that into consideration.
Layer 2 Firmware: This layer is what allows the software to control the hardware in your phone, like a bridge between the two. There is firmware for just about every component of your phone, the camera, screen, radio, processor etc etc. This is the second least likely layer to be modified. S-Off is required to modify most, but not all, firmware files and rightfully so. Modifying firmware components can easily damage your phone if you do not understand what you're doing. In some cases a JTAGG repair can fix your phone from firmware modification damage, other times, only replacing physical components can repair the damage done. (Recovery and the kernel are technically part of the firmware layer but do not require S-Off to flash)
Layer 3 Software: The software layer consists of the "ROM" and applications on your phone. This is where most of the modification takes place and while modifying the software layer is the least likely to cause serious issues, it can still be dangerous. Flashing a ROM not intended for your device could easily put your phone into a bricked state. With SuperUser or Root access, software is capable of modifying the firmware layer of your device. It is up to you to decide what is safe and what's not safe. This is why rooting is not for everyone. How can you properly decide what is safe for your device without the proper knowledge?
Definitions
What is root?
Root, super user or su for short is a level of access giving you permission to read or write to folders, or partitions you could not have access to as a regular user. Think administrative access.
Consider a folder path “/sdcard/downloads/” If we break it down, “downloads” is a folder in “sdcard” and “sdcard” is one of the folders in “/” which is the “root” of the folder structure. As a regular user, one might not consider that folders other than sdcard exist in “/” as they are kind of hidden from us but rest assure they are there and this is typically where the android OS and firmware files are kept. Modifying these files can be extremely dangerous for your phone if you do not understand the modifications to the file you're making, and what steps you can take to recover from any issues you encounter.
What is an RUU?
RUU stands for ROM Update Utility. An RUU is used to reflash an existing firmware/software set or updated firmware/software set. An RUU will wipe everything and basically get your phone back to stock. Unless your phone is S-Off, you cannot run an RUU with an older firmware or software than those currently on your device. You can only run an RUU that matches your MID/CID unless you are S-Off and have SuperCID or have changed the MID/CID to match the carrier you are flashing. There may be differences in hardware/firmware between MIDs and CIDs so be mindful as this can lead to a brick. To properly run an RUU with S-On, you must also have stock recovery installed, the bootloader must be locked/relocked. BE VERY CAREFUL DOING THIS. It is not recommended to RUU or OTA after unlocking your bootloader unless you have to. If you are S-OFF you can RUU whether the bootloader is locked or not and if you are superCID, CID checks will be ignored so be sure to be mindful of the RUU you are running and that it will play nice with your phone.
What is an OTA?
OTA stands for Over The Air and implies an Over the air update distributed by your phone manufacturer, carrier or ROM developer. Unlike an RUU, an OTA will not typically wipe/factory reset your phone but can update your firmware and/or software set. To a apply a manufacturer/carrier released OTA you will need stock recovery and stock system apps installed. Your CID/MID must match that of the carrier/manufacturer your phone came from.
What is a ROM?
When the term ROM was first introduced it stood for Read Only Memory, however, most memory that claims to be Read Only nowadays is not like it was back then. Now a days it is not as complicated to write ROM as only permissions are in your way as opposed to the days when you were required to modify the hardware layer in some way to update the ROM chip. In this particular case, we are referring to the android software on your phone. Stock ROM would imply the manufacturer released ROM that came on your device when you purchased it. Custom ROMs are ROMs the are modified stock ROMs or ROMs built from android source code to. I think you get the idea. It's the device software or Operating System if you will. You should never flash a ROM that is not intended for the device you are flashing it to, this is very dangerous. Like, brick dangerous.
What is a nandroid backup?
A nandroid backup is a backup of your phone's current state. Like a snapshot or image of your phone's software. It includes the ROM currently flashed to your phone, the kernel, apps and settings. It does not include any firmware files other than the kernel and possibly the recovery. A nandroid is done with custom recovery and cannot be done with stock recovery. Taking a nandroid before you start messing with your phone is good practice. In fact, It's good practice to make nandroids before flashing a new ROM, or making any changes that may impact stability. This will ensure you always have a quick way to get back to having a usable phone. Obviously, a nandroid will not help in cases where you mess up firmware files like the radio firmware or hboot.
What is a kernel?
The kernel is the central point of an operating system. It contains the modules and settings necessary for the ROM or OS to work properly. Every Operating System has a kernel, including android. Just like ROMs there are custom kernels, with tweaks and the like that may improve or decrease performance/stability. Also, like ROMs, you should never flash a kernel not intended for your device. Very Dangerous!
What is a bootloader?
The bootloader is as the name implies, a device software/interface for handling boot operations it is contained within the hboot file. The bootloader screen has a few nifty features:
Gives you device information such as:
The bootloader state (locked, relocked or unlocked)
The Secureflag state (S-On or S-Off)
Your hboot and radio versions
Your Cid (only if you changed it)
Allows you to power down, reboot or boot your phone to android.
Allows you to factory reset your phone (Though should never really be used unless you are completely stock as you can properly factory reset in custom recovery)
Allows you access to the recovery
It gives you access to fastboot command operations you can send from your PC to your phone.
To boot to bootloader: Press and hold Power and volume up until the phone shuts off, then let go of power and volume up. Press and hold Volume down until your screen comes up in bootloader mode.
What is recovery?
Recovery is a software/User Interface that allows you to handle and make changes to your device, without having to boot the android OS. The stock M8 comes with a recovery that is quite limited but allows you to factory reset your phone and flash OTA updates which really is more than enough for the average user.
Those of us who want more from our phones, and modify them tend to flash custom recoveries with many extra features. I won't go into all the features they provide as the devs have websites, and you can visit them for more information. The two custom recoveries for the m8 include TWRP and Philz Touch. Both are very functional and choosing one is a matter of preference over anything else.
To flash a recovery image. Put the recovery image in your fastboot/adb folder and in the command prompt:
Code:
fastboot flash recovery recoveryfilename.img
You can find The latest:
TWRP for the M8 HERE
Philz Touch for the M8 HERE
To manually boot to recovery, boot to bootloader (Press and hold Power and volume up until the phone shuts off, then let go of power and volume up. Press and hold Volume down until your screen comes up in bootloader mode). Then select recovery in the bootloader menu.
What is S-Off/S-On?
This stands for Securewrite-on or Securewrite-Off. The name kind of gives some hints as to what it means. Having your bootloader unlocked, affords you the ability to to flash a custom recovery and custom roms as well as a custom kernel however, some people may need more. They may want to alter other system partitions. That is where S-Off comes in. It gives you full write access to all system partitons. It also forces a bypass for all security checks, such as those made by OTAs and RUUs, for CID and MID. S-Off is persistent. No matter if you RUU, OTA, Flash a ROM, Firmware, Factory Reset, S-Off will remain so until you use fastboot to reset the flag. I should say, if you don't know what you're doing, that is to say, if you are the type to follow instructions blindly on a thread, without much idea what is ACTUALLY Happening, what files you're modifying, you should not have S-Off. It should not concern you and that is that. S-Off can be dangerous. You have been warned.
What does a Factory Reset do?
A Factory Reset Clears the Cache, Dalvik Cache and Data Partitions. All settings will reset to default. User Apps (Apps you installed that did not com preinstalled with the ROM) will be removed. This will not restore your phone to when you purchased it. This will not relock your bootloader, Reset the S-Off flag, remove root, or downgrade your hboot. It merely affects the system and user settings and user apps.
What is fastboot?
Fastboot is a command line tool that allows you to manipulate certain parts of your phone from the bootloader. Your phone must be in fastboot mode and you must have the fastboot application and HTC drivers installed if you are on Windows. If you are on linux, the HTC driver is preinstalled.
Popular fastboot commands include:
Fatsboot devices (Lists devices connected for use with fastboot)
Fastboot flash recovery recovery.img (Flashes a recovery image)
Fastboot flash boot boot.img (Flashes a boot image)
Fastboot oem readcid (Shows the CID of the phone installed)
Fastboot oem writecid (Writes a new CID to your phone. Must be 8 Characters. Requires S-Off)
Fastboot oem rebootRUU (Puts the phone in RUU mode which is used for flashing firmwares and/or entire RUUs)
Fastboot reboot (Reboots your phone)
Fastboot reboot-bootloader (Reboots to bootloader)
Fastboot erase cache (Wipes the cache partition using fastboot. Good idea after flashing things via fastboot)
Fastboot help (Will list fastboot commands)
Fastboot boot imagefilename.img (Allows you to boot a recovery image or kernel image without actually flashing to your phone
allowing you one time access to the features without the headache of reflashing stock afterwards) Thanks to @garyd9 for suggesting I include this. Very convenient command.
What is ADB?
ADB is another command line tool used to manipulate your phone. The commands for ADB are way more extensive. ADB can only communicate with your phone while in a custom recovery or while the ROM is booted up with USB debugging turned on. The reason ADB is so much more extensive is because it allows you to remotely access your phone's terminal just like a linux terminal. You can use ADB to push or pull files to and from any partition (Some partitions will require S-Off), list devices, get a logcat, troubleshoot issues etc etc. For an extensive list of commands and how to use ADB I strongly suggest visiting http://developer.android.com/tools/help/adb.html
What is the CID?
CID stands for carrier ID. It's a string of letters and numbers, eight characters long that identify what carrier your phone is from. When you flash an OTA or RUU, The OTA or RUU checks for a few things, one of those things is the CID, to ensure you are flashing software intended for your device. Realistically, There's no hardware difference between the M8s (with the exception of CDMA vs GSM) so all firmwares/softwares should be compatible. With regards to radio firmware, your radio may function better with one firmware over another. There have been occasions with HTC where flashing an RUU or OTA with the wrong CID or SuperCID, while S-On would brick your phone. So try to be mindful of this and be careful.
Thanks to @garyd9 for suggesting I include this in my guide!
Some common CIDs include but are not limited to:
SuperCID: 11111111
HTC International: HTC__001
AT&T: CWS__001
ROGERS: ROGER001
VODAPHONE: VODAP001
T MOBILE: T-MOB010
TELESTRA: TELST001
Bell Canada: BM___001
What is a brick?
The term brick is sometimes thrown around a bit too casually. A brick is when your phone is no longer operable. It does not boot, there is no way to save it without resorting to Jtagg or replacing the nand chip or motherboard. If your phone powers on and something appears on your screen, your phone can almost always be saved. Be sure you know how to save your device before messing with your device.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
I flashed a ROM or Kernel and it's not booting! WHAT DO I DO!?
When this happens. There are actually a number of things to consider but first off, Hopefully you made a nandroid to restore from just in case the reason it doesn't boot is something not quickly or easily fixed.
1. Is the ROM you're flashing indeed intended for your device? ROMs you're flashing should be for the HTC One m8 International. You should not be flashing ROMs designed for the m8 Sprint or Verizon and should not be flashing ROMs designed for other models of phone. If the ROM you flashed is not for your device, best case scenario, it's not flashing properly. Worst case scenario, you have a brick. You will need to factory reset and wipe system then either flash a new ROM or restore a nandroid to get your phone up and running again.
2. Did you wipe Cache, Dalvik Cache, Data and System? (Don't wipe System for Kernel Install)
A factory reset will wipe all but system. You should wipe System manually in case the script for the ROM install does not do it or does it improperly. A factory reset is enough for a Kernel install. If you wiped system and just flashed a kernel, it's no doubt your phone is not booting.
* If you did not factory reset and wipe system, do so and then reflash your rom. It should then boot.
* If you wiped system to flash a kernel, you will need to reflash the rom, and then reflash your kernel again if you are flashing a custom kernel. (Note a GPE Kernel will not work on Sense and a Sense kernel will not work on GPE.
3. Did you matchup the Checksum? MD5 or SHA1 are usually posted on the ROM Download site/post. This allows you to check and make sure the integrity of the file you downloaded has been maintained. If The SHA1 or MD5 of the file you downloaded does not match what is posted, you have a corrupted file and should redownload. If you don't have a MD5 or SHA1 Checker, I suggest downloading one. Google MD5 or SHA1 Checker and you should find one. MD5 is most commonly used but it's up to the Dev as to which they post. Sometimes both. You only need to match one. (Linux comes with utilities for checking MD5/SHA1 called md5sum and/or sha1sum)
4. If you tried all these steps and it's still not booting, try another ROM. If no ROMs appear to be booting, you may be having an issue with your custom recovery. Redownload your recovery (Make sure it's the right one for your phone and check the checksum) Then reflash recovery, then use fastboot erase cache, boot to recovery and try flashing again.
5. If you tried all these and you're having issues, ask in the M8 Q&A!
I wiped everything and I don't have a ROM on my phone to flash! What do I do?
This is quite simple really.
Boot to recovery
Connect your phone to your PC
Make sure your ROM is on your PC and in your adb folder
Then use:
Code:
adb push romfilename.zip /sdcard/
Be patient, this could take a while, when it finishes you will get a confirmation with bytes in/bytes out.
Then flash.
Where can I go to find links to do all this cool stuff I want to do to my Phone!?!?!?!?
HERE!
Thank Yous!
Thanks to @garyd9
Thanks to @keithross39
This is a work in progress. I will be updating this as often as I can, trying to explain as much as I can for newer M8 owners who are not used to HTC or Android devices. If you have any suggestions for what I can put here, post here and let me know! Also, I'm not perfect, I make mistakes if I have/do make any, do not be shy! Let me know.
[08/18/2014] Partially updated and fixed spelling mistakes. More coming soon!

Hey fella, this is a good idea.
Thanks for taking the time to do this.
I am going to be getting the M8 in the near future, so reading up about the HTC specific stuff is really useful for me as I'm currently familiar with Samsung procedures and not a lot else. Most folks reading this should be familiar with the 'cross platform basics', so what you've covered so far should be enough........
But.....
Those (like me) who are getting an HTC device for the first time would probably benefit from more of a detailed description of the HTC side of things......maybe you could concentrate on expanding that information.......
Maybe you could include links to threads for s-off, rooting and/or anything else relevant?
Just my 2 cents worth....for what it's worth.....
Sent from my rooted debloated thingy

keithross39 said:
Hey fella, this is a good idea.
Thanks for taking the time to do this.
I am going to be getting the M8 in the near future, so reading up about the HTC specific stuff is really useful for me as I'm currently familiar with Samsung procedures and not a lot else. Most folks reading this should be familiar with the 'cross platform basics', so what you've covered so far should be enough........
But.....
Those (like me) who are getting an HTC device for the first time would probably benefit from more of a detailed description of the HTC side of things......maybe you could concentrate on expanding that information.......
Maybe you could include links to threads for s-off, rooting and/or anything else relevant?
Just my 2 cents worth....for what it's worth.....
Sent from my rooted debloated thingy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man! I welcome all suggestions! I will do my best to incorporate your suggestions
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app

Great idea, thanks. I've been wondering what S-Off is for weeks but didn't want the flaming for asking a noob question!
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Some possible additions:
What is "RUU"?
What is MID (model ID) along with a list of some common MID's
What is CID (carrier ID?) along with a list of some common CID's
How do the MID and CID relate to each other and how does the combination relate and/or interact with RUU. Related, of course, is the third part of the version number.

I was thinking of writing a guide myself, because I was so confused myself after coming from samsung, really nice.

Shebee said:
I was thinking of writing a guide myself, because I was so confused myself after coming from samsung, really nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol...ain't that the truth....
Sent from my rooted debloated thingy

Nice one

Very well done!
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

I'm one of those who also came from Samsung (S4).
This is really great and easy to understand. This should be sticky :victory:

While I think the OP uses the term "ROM" incorrectly (Read Only Memory), I'll admit that's just me being picky. Otherwise, a very useful post... I've requested it be made sticky.
Take care
Gary

garyd9 said:
While I think the OP uses the term "ROM" incorrectly (Read Only Memory), I'll admit that's just me being picky. Otherwise, a very useful post... I've requested it be made sticky.
Take care
Gary
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not being picky at all! Feel free to suggest any corrections. I welcome criticism and corrections.
Thanks for the recommendation!
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app

exad said:
That's not being picky at all! Feel free to suggest any corrections. I welcome criticism and corrections.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL. I'm one of those people who goes nuts when people want to install "ROM's" on their phone. I keep reminding them that if it was really "Read Only Memory", that they wouldn't be able to overwrite it. Ever.
I do understand, however, that it's one of the misused terms these days. I guess it's kind of like saying you are "dialing a phone number." (There aren't any dials on our phones anymore. I haven't even seen a working rotary dial phone in years...)
Anyway - I'll stop with my OT bantering. Once I get more familiar with HTC devices I'll probably have some good suggestions for your posts.
Take care
Gary

garyd9 said:
LOL. I'm one of those people who goes nuts when people want to install "ROM's" on their phone. I keep reminding them that if it was really "Read Only Memory", that they wouldn't be able to overwrite it. Ever.
I do understand, however, that it's one of the misused terms these days. I guess it's kind of like saying you are "dialing a phone number." (There aren't any dials on our phones anymore. I haven't even seen a working rotary dial phone in years...)
Anyway - I'll stop with my OT bantering. Once I get more familiar with HTC devices I'll probably have some good suggestions for your posts.
Take care
Gary
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read only memory isn't a great name for it. If you've ever updated the bios on a pc, flashed a firmware update to a router, etc... you've written to read only memory. There are types that are truly read only but I can't think of a single practical example. And welcome to htc phones!
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

lampel said:
Read only memory isn't a great name for it. If you've ever updated the bios on a pc, flashed a firmware update to a router, etc... you've written to read only memory. There are types that are truly read only but I can't think of a single practical example. And welcome to htc phones!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm old enough to remember (clearly) when you couldn't update the BIOS on a PC - you had to physically replace the BIOS chip. (Usually, they were socketed to make replacement a bit easier.) That was ROM. Also, early game consoles used true ROM in cartridges.
As for current practical example: a simple CDROM (not CD/RW) is, of course, read only.

I agree that it's not the best name lol but that is what it stands for....
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app

Added this to my index thread

Hi guys! I am planning to buy an htc one m8 but can someone please tell me the different models out there? I don't want to end up buying the wrong one. Also is the dev one worth spending the extra money over the international? And is it the same model as the international one? Thanks in advance. I didn't know where else to post this. I didn't wanted to start a new thread.

Karan and all other users, please post questions in Q&A. Only things that should be posted here are suggested additions to this thread.
Also thread has been updated and more to come!

Part on RUUs is wrong...
An RUU can be run at any point and in any state (so long as you can get to the bootloader) as it completely replaces the entire system so doesn't matter if you don't have the stock recovery as it replaces it during the update process. Also, if you're S-OFF it means you can flash any RUU for any phone, handy to go between branded and unbranded software. OK, there's a risk of trying to flash an RUU from another device but if you do that you're a bit dumb!!

[Q] Droid Razr M not fully booting: Help Please

Hello,
Problem:
factory reset my Droid RAZR M with the hope to resolve in-call audio problems (very low ear piece volume at full). When I rebooted the phone the Welcome screen appeared asking for a language choice. Chose english US. The Message: "Please wait, This may take a few minutes" appeared with a spinning icon. But nothing else ever happens. The phone never moves beyond this selection.
I have android-sdk (Linux setup) installed on my computer in order to use the suite of tools like fastboot and adb. The tools work, in that I can see the phone, pull data, upload to the phone and even get a command shell on the phone. However in order for adb to recognize the phone I have to put the phone in "BT Tools" mode. In "AP fastboot" mode fastboot sees the phone. As far as I remember USB debugging was turned on.
I do not have a recovery image installed.
The phone has Kitkat 4.4.2 ver 183.46.10 and is rooted with TowelRoot. I just unlocked the bootloader today via motoapocalypse package. Status of the phone is unlocked Code 3
I also removed some unused apps - like NFL and a few other space and bandwidth consuming apps that I will never use.
I'd like to get this phone to work again. Is there any hope?
Please advise and thanks for reading.

You can flash custom recovery via fastboot and then custom ROM or flash stock ROM via RSD. Guide is in first thread in general section.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2869432
[GUIDE][FAQ][DIY][KK] How to Root, Boot Unlock & More

Thanks for the pointer. I gather that RSD is a Windows based app. At the present time I do not have a Windows computer. So I took a shot at the job using fastboot, adb and all as found in the android-sdk. Did the steps as described in the flashing post. Now all I ever see is the "Bootloader unlocked warning message" and the phone never progresses beyond the warning. I disassembled the phone, to disconnect the battery -- hoping for a reset miracle. No change after reassembly. Given the latest state of the phone as described above, is there any chance of reviving this phone now that it's stuck at the bootloader warning?
(I read a post about a Motorola Factory Cable -- and if I understand the factory cable puts the phone in a special mode for flashing looking into this option).
I am out to learn and am not afraid of poking around -- so at this point I have no more to lose.
Would the Windows computer make the difference? Using linux mint atm.
Klen2 said:
You can flash custom recovery via fastboot and then custom ROM or flash stock ROM via RSD. Guide is in first thread in general section.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2869432
[GUIDE][FAQ][DIY][KK] How to Root, Boot Unlock & More
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

diordnAMRZAR said:
Thanks for the pointer. I gather that RSD is a Windows based app. At the present time I do not have a Windows computer. So I took a shot at the job using fastboot, adb and all as found in the android-sdk. Did the steps as described in the flashing post. Now all I ever see is the "Bootloader unlocked warning message" and the phone never progresses beyond the warning. I disassembled the phone, to disconnect the battery -- hoping for a reset miracle. No change after reassembly. Given the latest state of the phone as described above, is there any chance of reviving this phone now that it's stuck at the bootloader warning?
(I read a post about a Motorola Factory Cable -- and if I understand the factory cable puts the phone in a special mode for flashing looking into this option).
I am out to learn and am not afraid of poking around -- so at this point I have no more to lose.
Would the Windows computer make the difference? Using linux mint atm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can try using SBF_FLASH or mFastboot-v2 (which has a linux version) to flash the system.img .

SOLVED: [Q] Droid Razr M not fully booting: Help Please
That worked. Thanks! So the difference between the SDK fastboot and the one in the link provided (mfastboot-V2): the linux-fastboot seems to be smarter about uploading the larger image files to the flashable device (guessing). I am sure I did "flashboot flash system system.img" with the flashboot util from the SDK.
@ATTACK do you have the source for that version of fastboot or patches? Would like to have a look.
Thanks again! Got an unlocked rooted working Droid RAZR M!

diordnAMRZAR said:
That worked. Thanks! So the difference between the SDK fastboot and the one in the link provided (mfastboot-V2): the linux-fastboot seems to be smarter about uploading the larger image files to the flashable device (guessing). I am sure I did "flashboot flash system system.img" with the flashboot util from the SDK.
@ATTACK do you have the source for that version of fastboot or patches? Would like to have a look.
Thanks again! Got an unlocked rooted working Droid RAZR M!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your guess is correct, mfastboot allows you to flash larger system.img's that wont otherwise flash in fastboot.
As for sources... I have no idea who created mfastboot or where it came from. It's just one of those things that get's passed around the internet.

ATTACK said:
Your guess is correct, mfastboot allows you to flash larger system.img's that wont otherwise flash in fastboot.
As for sources... I have no idea who created mfastboot or where it came from. It's just one of those things that get's passed around the internet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I'm happy to have the utility that works. Can thank you enough -- or the creators. Found it also on goggle code after a properly crafted search string. All this for an in-call audio problem that only worsened after I took the phone apart. Still works on speaker mode though so that's good enough -- at low volume. And I learned a few things. One interesting thing: The shell prompt got rewritten to say ${USER}@scorpion_mini/ after flashing the system.img. Pretty sure it only said android prior to re-flashing . And the getprop helper app is a new thing for me.
Feel like a kid all over again exploring this little device.

Idiots Guide (video) to installing the FULL Android!??

Is there a simple vid tutorial going on how to flash the shield with FULL android? ? The main thread on the developer section has about 120 pages but it is not idiot proof. I dont want to brick my new shield
Thanks in advance!!!

If its your 1st time flashing an android device head over to youtube and spend some time there. Once you get the idea of flashing via stock recovery/twrp come back to the full android rom thread

Ive flashed a zillion android boxes. But this is not yer average android box. How difficult would it be for someone to put up a very simple guide?
This is from the main thread explaining how to do it...
"Installation:
Put the device in fastboot mode:
Connect the Shield Tv to PC via micro usb cable
Enable usb debugging in development settings of Shield TV
In the command prompt of your PC type:
adb reboot bootloader
The bootloader must be unlocked before all others operations with the command:
fastboot oem unlock
When the bootloader is unlocked, In the command prompt type:
1) fastboot flash system system.img
2) fastboot -w
3) fastboot reboot
All others parts of the firmware can be stock for now and are already installed.
"
Talk about confusing!!!!!

lanzarote1000 said:
Talk about confusing!!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very confusing. I wrote it down here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64572084&postcount=1244

gnoober said:
Very confusing. I wrote it down here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64572084&postcount=1244
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Brilliant. Thanks!!!

I didnt like it either for some reason. I've followed instructions from a million xda OP's and flashed about as many ROMs but something about the way the dev chose to introduce his ROM and flashing instructions gave me a vibe l didnt like so I havnt tried it
*edit* I remember now he casually instructs you to run a command that wipes all user data (including internal storage) without the least bit of warning about potential loss of data or reason why its necessary... or making a simple statement about not supporting dirty flashing like I've seen some devs do. Anyway, other than that, it looks all good, and a lot of people seem to be enjoying it but thats funnyness if you ask me.

If it's your first time flashing on your shield then you will need to unlock the boot loader, which will wipe your device, then install a custom recovery, then flash the system image with his fast boot commands, which includes a wipe as well as his rom is very different from the stock one. You could try a dirty flash but doubt it would work. This is all from memory. I got it working fine but missed the stock rom and went back lol
Sent from my HTC One M9 using Tapatalk

The instructions are pretty straightforward aside from the usual language barrier issues. If you can't follow them, then I would suggest not even trying to flash it. Hell if you want to cheat and have a 1click solution, just download the recovery from NVIDIA, and replace the system.img in their file with @zulu99's and follow NVIDIA's instruction... Thier batch file essentially runs the commands for you so you don't have to do all that tedious typing.

hey I have tried all the guides to root my nvidia shield tv but without any luck, could any one please make me and other noobs a step by step guide ?

Unbricking Zenfone 3 ZE552KL (dm-verity) AND mistakes not to make when rooting

Preamble
Hello, all.
Soooo I've never posted on this forum before. I've mainly leeched the invaluable info for my personal gain. I'm sure many a googler has come here trying to figure out how to root their phone. And I'm sure many a "swimmer" in Schitz Creek has come here via Google to figure out how to save their device from what had been perceived as an upgrade. I'm speaking, of course, of trying to root/unlock a phone and finding said phone "bricked".
Well, it’s time to give back.
Because yesterday, I was neck deep in Schitz Creek. After a series of dumb decisions and a lack of knowledge, I bricked the phone I’d bought for my wife’s birthday. I was just trying to be able to delete the Asus bloatware and install titanium backup and greenify. By the way, since when did Facebook become a system app? How is this a thing? Anyways, my wife deserves better battery life. And it’s fun to feel like Cyber MacGuyver by rooting a phone. But the situation went awry. My wife kept telling me that everything was going to be alright, but I know the limitations of my knowledge.
Brief aside: I'm decently computer/phone savvy, but I would, in no way, consider myself an advanced user. Sure, to my family, I'm a computer wizard. But that doesn't mean a whole lot. To them, opening up a command prompt in Windows is seen as an act of magic. And I haven't had my planeswalker spark yet. However, I have successfully rooted, and in most cases unlocked the bootloader, for several phones (HTC desire, Galaxy S3 [three different models over three years], Asus Zenfone 5, LG G4 [once pre-motherboard-death and once post (after a downgrade)], and now the ZE552KL). So I know how to at least fumble my way around adb, fastboot, odin, and various recoveries. As long as you’re at this level, or willing to learn, then you should be able to follow these instructions. End aside.
Mistakes not to make
Let’s get down to brass tacks. I made two big mistakes that you shouldn’t make. Both mistakes stemmed from the basic mistake of using a root method other than this one: https://forum.xda-developers.com/zenfone-3/help/guide-how-to-root-zenfone-3-ze552kl-t3471524
The problem with not using this EXACT method is that some of the files/programs which you need to use have specific versions which will ensure an easypeasy root. Honestly, if you properly follow the instructions in the above post, you will most likely not run into any problems. The only addition I can make is that instead of steps 6 and 7, you might find it easier to install SuperSU.zip through TWRP instead of pushing and sideloading.
Mistake 1: Not using the proper TWRP file and SuperSU file
For some reason, there are multiple versions of these files. Your SuperSU file should be 4.8MB. Using the wrong SuperSU will break the dm-verity. Your TWRP should NOT be the latest experimental version. It should be the one from November or earlier of 2016. Using the wrong TWRP will leave you unable to use the touchscreen. Trust me. I know from experience.
Mistake 2: KEEP TWRP READ ONLY
Disabling read only has no current benefits. It will just break the dm-verity. Your device will still be able to be written to if you keep TWRP read only. I have no idea why it’s called “read only”.
How to unbrick the phone
I’m sure some of you skipped straight to here. While I can’t blame you, please at least read the above paragraph. It will help you.
First I will describe the situation the phone was in, and then I will explain how I saved it. Before I continue, I want to give a big shout out to Niemer. Without their helpful post, I would’ve had no idea what to do. Thanks!
Situation the phone was in
--TWRP could not be used because the touchscreen wasn’t working.
--The dm-verity was messed up (i.e. “not started in enforcing mode").
Before you look at the solutions, make sure that your phone shows up in the windows device manager as an ADB device/ASUS ADB device/ADB composite device/etc. no matter which step you’re in. Google it to figure out how if you don’t already know.
The solution
Part 1 - Create and flash a system image which will restore your dm-verity
step 1. download the latest system “update” from the asus drivers website. I have a WW version of the phone, so I downloaded “WW_V13.20.10.152”. It’s a 1.76GB file, so be patient. I haven’t tested this method with other versions of the phone, but they should work in theory.
step 2. go into the updater script file (META_INF → com → google → android → updater-script). Open it with notepad ++.
step 3. delete from the beginning of the file up until the line “ui_print("Target: asus/WW_Phone/ASUS_Z012D:6.0.1/MMB29P/13.20.10.152-20161222:user/release-keys");”
The code that you are deleting checks to make sure that your phone is the proper model. But there is a good chance that it will mistakenly identify your phone as a phony. So we need to get rid of this code.
step 4. save the updater-script file
step 5. create a copy of the modified system update zip file. You should now have two 1.76GB files (or maybe slightly different if your phone is a CN, JP, or other model. Once again, I have a WW version of the phone). Name one of the files “realupdate.zip” and name the other “dmsaver.zip”. The names aren’t actually important.
step 6. enter dmsaver.zip. delete these four files: file_contexts, system.new.dat, system.patch.dat, and system.transfer.list. Exit out of the file. It should now be about 60MB.
step 7. turn on your ZE552KL and enter fastboot mode
step 8. in a cmd screen from your main folder (i.e. the one with adb, fastboot, and all the other files, including the ones you just created), type in the command “fastboot flash system dmsaver.zip”
step 9. if successful, you have just restored the dm-verity. You should now no longer get that sinister red text which has been ruining all your fun.
Part 2 - Install a proper version of TWRP
(This is only important if your version of TWRP won’t let you do anything because you can’t use your touch screen)
Download the version of TWRP that is included in the how-to-root post I linked to above. Also, you can download the oldest version (NOT the newest) from a sharing website which is linked to in a post on the ASUS website. It’s not in english though. Flash it to your phone in fastboot mode using the “fastboot flash recovery” command. Make sure you turn your phone off before turning it back on, or your recovery might not activate correctly.
Part 3 - Install a new version of your system.
Go into TWRP and install the zip file “realupdate.zip” that you created in Part 1 - step 5.
Part 4 - Root your phone
Follow the instructions in the link I posted earlier. It comes from this website, so you know it’s good. This time, though, you probably don’t need to unlock the bootloader
Part 5 - Breathe a sigh of relief
Parting words
I really hope this guide can be of assistance to you. The full procedure for fixing “my” phone wasn’t really recorded anywhere (although once again, big shout out to Niemer for their post). I went through hundreds of iterations of seemingly random fastboot, recovery, and adb actions before everything worked out. Because of this, I feel quite fortunate to have saved the phone, and I really wanted to give back. This community has been super helpful to me over the last seven years, and this is my chance to reciprocate. I sincerely hope that this post will help you.
I hope I didn’t forget anything. I have a sneaking suspicion that I did. In any event, if you have any questions, please post them, and I’ll try to be of assistance. Happy rooting!

thank you man but i start Part1 step8 "fastboot flash system dmsaver.zip" it's successful then i go into TWRP and install the zip file “realupdate.zip” dm-verity show again.
Thank again.

Raw firmware
I have the same issue. My phone was branded "tim italy". When i bought it, I flashed the WW version via asus flash tool, and I'm currently able to update till the last M version, which is the ......152.
If i try to update to Android N, my phone will not boot, giving me the corruption message and shutting down after 10 seconds. I also tried to perform the dm restore procedure; the dm error disappeared but the system is stuck on the Asus boot screen
I believe that the only solution is to flash a Nougat RAW firmware via asus Flash tool. Does Anyone have a download link for the N version ?

thank you, you helped me, now im on N

I guess the version matters then. So be careful with which firmware you download/install. If anyone has success with other versions, please share how you did it

I am stuck on Step 8. i put the 2 zips in where my adb and fastboot is located, and then proceed to type 'fastboot flash system...' and then it wont let me flash, any help?

Device Locked
When I flash the dmsaver.zip, receive the error "FAILED (remote: not allowed in locked state)". Apparently this with the bootloader locked, but I already unlocked before. Someone can help me unlock the bootloader again?

Further hyperlinks & solution ideas
Check out my solution and Ideas in those in links I posted in this thread at 4th of septembre 2017:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ze...-zenfone-3-zoom-ze553kl-t3657239#post73661437
The hyperlinks in my post might also be useful, I hope.
Would be glad about your feedback, if it helped! :good:

how do you update the script file ..can u just post the file that u made somehow or email it or attach it to a message?

cant get it to work followed the instructions still getinf error code 7 trying to install lineage os

If you have lineage OS version not is a zip file but all the images (boot.img, system.img, ...) then you could try to flash the images through ADB...

if someone have the no verity issue, can you try a method for me please?
it consists on:
re-flash the rom kernel via fastboot
and run:
Code:
fastboot oem reset-dm-verity

Followed all the steps and twrp still has no touch function.
Tried all different twrp versions.

OS Version is a key
Hi everybody that has the same issue, I hope you read that so you can fix your problem.
So what I did was downloading old version of OS that autor mentioned "WW-13.20.10.152". It is necessary to download this version even if there are more newer versions. Then follow tutorial and you should be fine.
So again, thanks OP for posting this. You helped me a lot!