Process
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Process or processing typically describes the act of taking something through an established and usually routine set of procedures to convert it from one form to another, as a manufacturing or administrative procedure, such as processing milk into cheese, or processing paperwork to grant a mortgage loan, or converting computer data from one form to another.
Ok first off I'm the biggest noob at all things root as could be. I have managed to make some custom clocks for my old LG voyager way back in the day and have even jailbroke some Ipod touch's so I was able to load bootleg games and apps.
But this root thing has got my brain traped in a vortex and I really want to not just know how to root my droid (That info is everywhere) but I want to know how it all works. What terms like kernel mean and how they relate to clock speed. What is the difference between all the custom rom's? What happens when I root my phone and can't figure out what rom I should use? Do I have to reset all my apps and preferences every time i want to try a new rom?
I understand the how-to's I'm sure when I try to root my phone that I will not have much trouble doing so. But there are so many things I want to learn and know before I do anything.
I would like to say I'm not looking for links to tech reports on rom's that I will not understand I'm looking for alink (or someone who knows the things I wish to learn,) something that will explain the terms what they mean, how they relate to my phone and what outcome I should expect from loading custom rom's.
I understand that most users of this forum fall into one of two category's ONE ether super wonder techs that know exactly what they are doing and know how things work, TWO people who can read follow directions and root there phones while trying NOT to sound like noob's when they ask for help.
And then there's me I'm a number two, now I know that kinda makes me sound like **** but I really want to be a number ONE
So who want's to teach me ? Who's got some time to kill or link's to post? I'm even willing to go buy a android programmers book if there's one that would be recommended reading to help me understand the OS better.
I want to learn from the masters and this is where they all live. So will someone apprentice me ?
To close my rant out I would like to say I'm a 37 year old man with a masters in chemistry 119 IQ and ex-stream case of OCD that drive's my compulsive need to learn how things work, So I make for a good student
Thanx
รถ
Thank you so much, I was hoping to be able to reply first, (this sh*t is my crack)
Ok, First off, the kernel is the basic system that controls how the cpu reacts, as well as how programs interact with the hardware on your phone, such as the screen, wifi and bluetooth modules, accelerometer, gps, ambient light and the battery. When a dev wants to overclock their android, add a module for EXT, or TUN, or add wifi support, this is where the magic happens. this is probably the most important part of the firmware. It also controls battery life via voltage, as well as cpu speed.( the average droid can be overclocked to 1200-ish, depending on the randomness of processors, though I've heard of a ridiculous version called OMAP Ti39 or something that could be stable at 2ghz, even 2.3. As I think you may know, Fat32 doesn't support file transfers of more than about 4 gigs at a time, which is why add in ext support is so important, especially since someone made a video player that reads matroska video files (blu-ray) Ive tried it, its beautiful, (V player - on the market) after kernels is framework, the framework is what renders the gui, basically everything that you see on the screen is thanks to the framework-res. We edit it either manually, or through the use of an app called metamorph, which swaps the xml files the framework uses with edited ones, such as one I recently used to give my droid a circular battery, however these xml files can change anything you could need them to visually about your droid, you just have to find what you need. Now on to shell. shell is the engine that is accesible through command prompt and terminal using the android sdk and adb, more on that can be found easily on the google android homepage. however, much use is made through devs and an app called terminal emulator that is basically a straight to shell terminal screen app. Uses for shell may include but are basically limitless, include moving any app to your sd-card to conserve rom (rom is the phones total system memory, apps usually go in there, but before froyo, and ext partition could be used, and with froyo stock support for most apps was allotted, and without the need of an ext partition.) Ram is basically ram, if you use a rom that originally came with a larger ram supported device, something called a swap partition must be implemented, otherwise it won't boot, there is an app or two that will do that for you, manual swap creation is also possible. Swap basically creates virtual ram on the sd-card. Root access, which can be acheived manually through the recovery flashing of specific zip files, or via free apps that do it with one click, basically allows you to flash kernels, change the framework, or allow tethering which I will cover next, is possible because the kernel the phone uses is linux, the unlocking of which is called granting super user access, in ubuntu a linux distribution, typing su, and your admin password will give you access to your computers system files, much in the same way we apply it to android. (However, it is unlikely you would try to flash an alternate kernel to your desktop, as it runs on either ie36 or x64 architecture, whereas phones run altogether seperate architectures , for instance android runs on ARM, and that is the base and primary reason your phone won't run windows.) Since android is free (open-source) there is an x86 version of android, including a froyo port that you can use on laptops and desktops. (Really quickly I would like to interject that recovery is an option on all phones android based that is usually accessible by holding volume up while booting, however the droid requires you press x while booting to get to recovery, which btw is what you flash a custom version of after rooting that allows you to flash roms and kernels. It also allows for backing up all of your phones firmware and data in the event of a problem. Basically its your new best friend, get familiar.) Also there is another form of booting called bootloader, it allows you to flash specific system files that are normally untouched, a guide to using that and a program called rsd lite will help you if you've bricked your phone ( Bricked- term used to describe the state of a phone that is unable to be recovered to an earlier condition and is essentially a brick or "expensive paperweight".) by allowing you to flash a completely untouched sbf (firmware) file. note that you can also use it to change your boring m boot logo with any image that fits 480x182 bytes through a slightly difficult, but fun proccess, a guide to which ,can be found here at xda, including a file that allows for the flashing of just the logo, whereas previously you had to reactivate your phone (you just have to follow the instructions on the phone) reroot, and restore the rom you previously backed up. Now on to tethering, the most important feature available to root users, which, if carriers have anything to do with it, would normally cost an extra 10 dollars a month. (Tethering- using shell or an app with the proper kernel to allow the use of your phones mobile network via usb connection, or the creation of a wifi hotspot with your desktop or laptop.) However thanks to devs who believe that what you pay for should be used how you want, most roms will tether, even in the settings, without carriers any the wiser. Windows 7 and almost all linux will automatically tether, vista is the most difficult, and xp has a quick install init file that works like a charm. The only reason we root is because we believe in the freedom to change our phones to fit us personally, and lets face it, because we can, because its fun, because its not illegal, and it brings a sense of satisfaction and pride in pushing the limits of technology. (P.S. I tried not to take to long so I couldn't really look it over, so sorry for grammatical or vocabulary based errors.)
(P.P.S. I recommend any book to do with android programming, but you'll need programming experience in linux, especially eclipse.)
Oh, and I'm a 17 year old junior with a vocabulary skill level of 139, just in case you wondered.
There are plenty of applications on the market where you can backup apps and data once you root, I personally use titanium, but I never restore system data if I'm flashing roms, only apps n data that comes with apps. Youre gonna have to search around other forums and whatnot to find the right roms.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Related
Well I did google, I always here people talking about JfV and whatnot, but I can't seem to find a definitive resource letting me know exactly what it is and what it does? I know where to find it and see the instructions on how to install it, but noone seems to ever say what it has/does.
Another question I have is about auto starting apps. On Android, is it possible for me to set an app to auto start when i boot my device? this would be useful for some of the apps i use like Hello IM, twidroid, email, etc. I don't post much here but I'm hoping you guys can help me out and get me settled with Android and the G1. Thanks
- Q
The JesusFreke builds are edits of the official builds with root access along with a couple of useful applications like a terminal. Root lets you take advantage of some things like tethering and gives you control to edit and break your phone at your hearts desire.
Autostart seems to be app specific. My weather app autostarts and stays in the background but others don't. Not sure how to make them do it but maybe someone else know.
+1
welcome. JF's modified roms also add auto rotate for your browser and multi-touch which is nifty.
Lite Glossary...
I've seen a lot of questions like this and I vaguely remember someone trying to give a quick explanation in another thread but I couldn't find it.
So here's my attempt to clear some things up based on terminology.
Android OS - Like Windows Mobile but based on Linux, using a Java based front end.
Linux - Open Source operating system used instead of Windows XP/Vista, Mac OSX etc... it's free (as in beer).
Root (as in access)- root is like the administrator account on a windows machine. It allows you to have complete access to the underlying OS of a linux or *nix based machine.
Root (as in location)- the 'root' of a folder or drive is the top most area of that location. In windows, C:\ is the 'root' of your hard drive. The 'root' of your SD card just means you haven't moved into any subfolders.
JFV1.## - Is a specific Version of a JesusFreke ROM. JesusFreke is a developer on this website that has graciously spent his time to modify the G1 OS to allow us to have root access to our phones. This gives us the ability to explore and modify our phones via a command line. It allows for the use of themes, native backup functionality, manually selecting which apps can utilize root access, auto-rotate screen, multi-touch in browser, moving applications/caches to the sd card and I'm sure some other things I'm forgetting.
That's all I can think of right now. Maybe I'll add more later.
skri11a said:
I've seen a lot of questions like this and I vaguely remember someone trying to give a quick explanation in another thread but I couldn't find it.
So here's my attempt to clear some things up based on terminology.
Android OS - Like Windows Mobile but based on Linux, using a Java based front end.
Linux - Open Source operating system used instead of Windows XP/Vista, Mac OSX etc... it's free (as in beer).
Root (as in access)- root is like the administrator account on a windows machine. It allows you to have complete access to the underlying OS of a linux or *nix based machine.
Root (as in location)- the 'root' of a folder or drive is the top most area of that location. In windows, C:\ is the 'root' of your hard drive. The 'root' of your SD card just means you haven't moved into any subfolders.
JFV1.## - Is a specific Version of a JesusFreke ROM. JesusFreke is a developer on this website that has graciously spent his time to modify the G1 OS to allow us to have root access to our phones. This gives us the ability to explore and modify our phones via a command line. It allows for the use of themes, native backup functionality, manually selecting which apps can utilize root access, auto-rotate screen, multi-touch in browser, moving applications/caches to the sd card and I'm sure some other things I'm forgetting.
That's all I can think of right now. Maybe I'll add more later.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for the nice overview! I'm going to go ahead and do my G1 first thing in the morning (I don't wanna do it at night while I'm a tired mess and end up bricking it ) The auto-rotate is something I wished the G1 had. Does the autorotate in JesusFreke's rom go multiple directions? or is it just the 2 directions like on the default android rom?
And does it work for every app at all times? I know that the functionality exists in the phone as one of my apps implements the auto rotate feature, as well as several games in the android market that utilizes the accelerometer for gameplay. Would be cool to be able to roate my phone at any time using any app (espcially the browser). Thanks for any more help. And I already head RC33. Does that mean I have to downgrade or has an easier method arisen for RC33?
JF's roms V1.41 and up have autorotate in the browser. DroidSans has the app for root users that impliments autorotate for the rest of the phone except your stock picture viewer. both rotate to the same landscape direction like when you open the keyboard.
Don't forget the ability to move apps to your SD card
No, the auto-rotate only goes landscape like 13bjunkie said and he is also right that you need to download DroidSansTweak to actually activate the feature, accept for the browser (once you have root, of course).
It doesn't work on all apps at all times. Apps/games can disable the feature.
You will have to downgrade to RC29 still... Just follow the sticky in the development forum and you can't go wrong. Just follow it to the letter or all bets are off.
edit: Just found out it is is ALREADY DONE! Well, that was sort of a lie, but it is already possible, and will hopefully evolve into the easiest way of testing ROMs ever. ROM-whores, enjoy! Changed the topic title to spread the happy news. Go give him useful feedback and coding help!
While I am not as big a ROM-slut as many other, I do like to check things out. The Eclair-ROM by manup456 is high on my list now, for example, and while I'm swapping ROMS, I would like to test whats happening with the Hero ones.
And one thing strikes me: It would be extremely convenient to be able to launch the ROM right from the sd card. unpacking the ROM-zip to a partition on the sd card, and then launch it directly from there, would be much easier than having to flash it to the phones flash. And also, people would avoid to wear the poor nand flash out. Being able to boot from SD would also allow us to have more than one ROM installed, and switching at reboot.
Have anyone got any idea of how much work this would take? Would the ROM need to be customized for this? (I hope not.) An more importantly: Does anyone with any coding skills like the idea, and care to give it a shot? I know the OpenMokmo-projects used U-boot, and some Debian derivative projects uses Qi. I have no idea, however, if there is a small, moderate or huge amount of work to make those work on the Dream/with Android, or if customizing tthe existing is easier (if at all possible).
While this can be setup, it would require alot of work, and all devs would have to change the format of the boot.img they are using. So... probably not going to happen
naguz said:
While I am not as big a ROM-slut as many other, I do like to check things out. The Eclair-ROM by manup456 is high on my list now, for example, and while I'm swapping ROMS, I would like to test whats happening with the Hero ones.
And one thing strikes me: It would be extremely convenient to be able to launch the ROM right from the sd card. unpacking the ROM-zip to a partition on the sd card, and then launch it directly from there, would be much easier than having to flash it to the phones flash. And also, people would avoid to wear the poor nand flash out. Being able to boot from SD would also allow us to have more than one ROM installed, and switching at reboot.
Have anyone got any idea of how much work this would take? Would the ROM need to be customized for this? (I hope not.) An more importantly: Does anyone with any coding skills like the idea, and care to give it a shot? I know the OpenMokmo-projects used U-boot, and some Debian derivative projects uses Qi. I have no idea, however, if there is a small, moderate or huge amount of work to make those work on the Dream/with Android, or if customizing tthe existing is easier (if at all possible).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
UPDATE: So here is the link to a better version of Ubuntu running on your Vibrant. I do not have much time yet to edit the original post, but take a look at the this. You should be able to get it to work.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=823370
OLD:
DISCLAIMER: I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE TO YOUR PHONE!! YOU ARE DOING THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Ok, so for those who like to push the limits with their phones I don't think it gets better then this
I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to making this possible. We had gotten a lot of good posts.
But a big thanks goes out to danielmid84, he provided me with the link http://nexusonehacks.net/nexus-one-hacks/how-to-install-ubuntu-on-your-nexus-oneandroid/ and a custom modified script to work with our phones, thank you!!
UBUNTU on Vibrant
INSTRUCTIONS
Prerequisites:
Root
Latest version of BusyBox
Android SDK ( and knowledge of how to use the tools, adb shell, etc... )
Understanding of Linux commands ( but not necessary )
Files needed are located here: http://www.megaupload.com/?d=FALJFT3L
BootUbuntu script modded by danielmid84 here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=385853&stc=1&d=1282503588 NOTE: This file replaces the BootUbuntu file located in the archive above.
VERY IMPORTANT!!!
Step 1:
Connect your phone to the computer and mount your internal storage sdcard (Not your external sdcard).
Step 2:
Now create a new folder under sdcard named "ubuntu" for instance "/sdcard/ubuntu/" and copy ALL of the files in the "ubuntu.zip" archive over to this newly created folder EXCEPT the BootUbuntu file. You will be copying over the BootUbuntu file over from the additional BootUbuntu file link provided above.
Step 3:
Now that we have all of the files in place, make sure to "Turn off USB storage" on your phone to be able t access the SD card from ADB Shell. Also make sure your "USB Debugging Mode" is check under "Settings>Applications>Developement".
Step 4:
We are going to want a windows terminal open and we are going to "cd" into your "/tools" folder, wherever that may be located. For example " cd c:\android\sdk\tools".
Once you are in the "tools" folder, issue this command "adb shell". And for linux users, you will be issuing the command as "./adb shell".
Step 5:
Once you are in ADB Shell, you should see a "#" symbol now.
You are then going to type "su" to enter superuser mode.
Step 6:
We are going to cd into the ubuntu folder by issuing the command "cd /sdcard/ubuntu".
Now that we are located in "/sdcard/ubuntu" we will issue the command "sh ./ubuntu.sh"
This command only needs to be entered once, or if you ever change the file "bootubuntu".
Step 7:
Once that is completed, issue the command "bootubuntu".
If you get the "localhost" prompt, you have just successfully installed UBUNTU onto your Vibrant. Congratulations!!!
Now mind you, this is not with a Graphical User Interface yet and but you can access the power of Linux and Ubuntu by using a Terminal Emulator.
But if you want a running Graphical User Interface to play with, keep in mind that is uses a lot of memory and continue reading and I will have that updated here shortly.
Step 8:
We are now going to install a GUI.
While still being in Ubuntu with the "localhost" prompt, issue the command "apt-get update".
Then issue the command "apt-get install tightvncserver".
Step 9:
Once that is complete, you are going to want to issue the command "apt-get install lxde". This will take a few minutes so let it do its thing.
Step 10:
Next we are going to type:
"export USER=root" then
"vncserver -geometry 1024x800" but you can change the display size to what you prefer.
You will be asked to set a password at this time for login.
Step 11:
Next we are going to add the following commands to /root/.vnc/xstartup.
Now type:
"cat > /root/.vnc/xstartup" it will seem like it is hanging after you push enter, but it is only waiting for additional input. So continue by entering
"#!/bin/sh"
"xrdb $HOME/.Xresources"
"xsetroot -solid grey"
"icewm &"
"lxsession"
Then hit Ctrl+D twice and Enter key.
Step 12:
Now open the Android VNC app on your phone with "localhost" as "address" and "5901" as "port". Enter your password as well and connect!! You will now have a GUI for your Ubuntu!
REMEMBER: EACH TIME YOU WANT TO LOGIN TO YOUR UBUNTU, YOU DON'T NEED TO BE CONNECTED TO YOUR COMPUTER. YOU CAN USE TERMINAL EMULATOR.
This is only for full phone reboots to set up Ubuntu again.
Start Terminal Emulator and cd into "/sdcard/ubuntu"
Then issue these commands:
"su"
"export USER=root"
"vncserver -geometry 1024x800"
and you should be able to log back into the GUI with Android VNC again.
I'm surprised that not one person is interested in this...
I think debian on the vibrant would be sick!
sadly I don't dev
Can I ask what "debain" is? For all of us new guys..
Sent from my Vibrant using XDA App..
Typos/Nonsense due to Swype!
Stock Root + RyanZA LagFix + Captive Camera MOD
itsjusttim said:
Can I ask what "debain" is? For all of us new guys..
Sent from my Vibrant using XDA App..
Typos/Nonsense due to Swype!
Stock Root + RyanZA LagFix + Captive Camera MOD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google is your best friend. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Debian
yeah man, I'm pretty surprised too that no one else is interested in this! I would love to see debian get ported to work on our phones
For those who are asking, debian is a version of desktop Linux. When it works on our phones, it will essentially allow you to do almost anything you can normally do on a desktop computer.
Thanks for the link! This looks luke it would be amazing.. I hope we can eventually get this...
Sent from my Vibrant using XDA App..
Typos/Nonsense due to Swype!
Stock Root + RyanZA LagFix + Captive Camera MOD
post videos.
freekyfrogy said:
It will essentially allow you to do almost anything you can normally do on a desktop computer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mean, it'll allow you to do almost anything you can normally do on a tiny format linux desktop computer
It's all good and dandy, someone has ported Ubuntu to N1 back in a day, but the question remains:
Why would you want to run a full fledge Linux OS on your phone?
I am a linux user, and have been for quite some time, I do enjoy it on my work laptop with 14.1" of real estate, but I fail to see a huge benefit of running a complete OS on the phone.
And before everyone starts with "you know android is linux" I know that, and it is stripped down linux OS for portable devices like phones, etc. It is as good as it gets, and suits the portable device market well.
Please feel free to address my question:
Why would you want to run a full fledge Linux OS on your phone?
How about we get a port of WINE on android...
lqaddict said:
It's all good and dandy, someone has ported Ubuntu to N1 back in a day, but the question remains:
Why would you want to run a full fledge Linux OS on your phone?
I am a linux user, and have been for quite some time, I do enjoy it on my work laptop with 14.1" of real estate, but I fail to see a huge benefit of running a complete OS on the phone.
And before everyone starts with "you know android is linux" I know that, and it is stripped down linux OS for portable devices like phones, etc. It is as good as it gets, and suits the portable device market well.
Please feel free to address my question:
Why would you want to run a full fledge Linux OS on your phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was thinking the same thing. Its kinda a party piece. Look at what my phone can do. You know. I had it on my N1 and i never used it. Just like we could have windows 95 on the HD2. The only good thing i used it for on the N1 was air-crack, and i never got it to work right.
So you can compile android source on your phone, duh!
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Yeah, I find it a shame that some people think debian on a phone is simply a party peice. There are too many useful reasons to list, especially the reason to have a smart phone is to expand the abilities past just "a cellphone"
lqaddict said:
It's all good and dandy, someone has ported Ubuntu to N1 back in a day, but the question remains:
Why would you want to run a full fledge Linux OS on your phone?
I am a linux user, and have been for quite some time, I do enjoy it on my work laptop with 14.1" of real estate, but I fail to see a huge benefit of running a complete OS on the phone.
And before everyone starts with "you know android is linux" I know that, and it is stripped down linux OS for portable devices like phones, etc. It is as good as it gets, and suits the portable device market well.
Please feel free to address my question:
Why would you want to run a full fledge Linux OS on your phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The real question is why not....
I'm sick and tired of all the negative posts in the xda forums.
why would you want camera on a phone?
why would you play games on a phone?
why would you read webpages on a phone?
why would you text on a phone?
why would you listen to music on a phone?
why would you want to go to the moon?
Is it affecting you in some way?
does someone sacrifice a kitten somewhere when someone wants to use a device for something it was not intended to?
do you enjoy stifling development?
jzero88 said:
Yeah, I find it a shame that some people think debian on a phone is simply a party peice. There are too many useful reasons to list, especially the reason to have a smart phone is to expand the abilities past just "a cellphone"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good man
scrizz said:
The real question is why not....
I'm sick and tired of all the negative posts in the xda forums.
why would you want camera on a phone?
why would you play games on a phone?
why would you read webpages on a phone?
why would you text on a phone?
why would you listen to music on a phone?
why would you want to go to the moon?
Is it affecting you in some way?
does someone sacrifice a kitten somewhere when someone wants to use a device for something it was not intended to?
do you enjoy stifling development?
good man
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, why not explore the possibilities...
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
And why drive the nails down with a screwdriver?
There is no negativity coming from my question, I just needed to hear the reason people choose to run linux on their phones.
Developing a code for android phones on the phone running full linux, ok I failed to see the benefit, unless you get a hard-on from running a compiler on your phone while on a crapper. I would see how I might benefit from using some of the linux commands on my phone, like tcpdump, etc. but running a full raw OS on it is just overkill in my opinion.
And why drive the nails down with a screwdriver?
There is no negativity coming from my question, I just needed to hear the reason people choose to run linux on their phones.
Developing a code for android phones on the phone running full linux, ok I failed to see the benefit, unless you get a hard-on from running a compiler on your phone while on a crapper. I would see how I might benefit from using some of the linux commands on my phone, like tcpdump, etc. but running a full raw OS on it is just overkill in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To probably sum it all up... MOBILITY.
First, I am sure you have several games on your phone which you play frequently. Some of those which you could play on your computer, and some maybe only on the device. If you could play games on your computer, why would you want to play them on your phone?
Virtually everything you can do on your phone you can do on your computer, ten times better. The reason we have Office Suites, Calendars that sync, Games, CAMERA!!!!, Photo Editing Tools, etc. etc. etc... the list goes on and on, is to do it mobile.
No offense, but your question is pretty ignorant.
"I just needed to hear a reason people choose to run linux on their phones"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as an answer is funny as hell if you ask me,lol.
I think if you have nothing productive to contribute other than asking meaningless questions which is plainly obvious, especially in a forum like this, then don't post anything at all.
Only my $0.02
jzero88 said:
To probably sum it all up... MOBILITY.
First, I am sure you have several games on your phone which you play frequently. Some of those which you could play on your computer, and some maybe only on the device. If you could play games on your computer, why would you want to play them on your phone?
Virtually everything you can do on your phone you can do on your computer, ten times better. The reason we have Office Suites, Calendars that sync, Games, CAMERA!!!!, Photo Editing Tools, etc. etc. etc... the list goes on and on, is to do it mobile.
No offense, but your question is pretty ignorant.
as an answer is funny as hell if you ask me,lol.
I think if you have nothing productive to contribute other than asking meaningless questions which is plainly obvious, especially in a forum like this, then don't post anything at all.
Only my $0.02
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why my question is ignorant? I am coming from a development stand point, what android (a linux port for smartphones and mobile tablets) does not do well that the full linux OS can address? I am curious... I've seen some embeded linux systems that are running the OS that requires to complete the task - packet sniffers for instance - I am pretty sure you can run the full OS on it, but it is overkill. I understand that the smartphones are our mobile gateways when we are away from computers, and as they stand right now I failed to see what the full OS can contribute to the whole mobile experience. Games? Well, now you have the whole android community asking when the cadega becomes available on android so that you can run Call of Duty, etc. on your phone.
And as far as me not contributing and asking the meaningless questions - when you come to the development board and demand that something needs to be ported on your device a developer will ask you my question:
Why do you need it? What benefits are you looking for?
So, I still to hear the answer to these questions besides the fun factor to show your co-workers look I have a penguin on my boot screen.
Look at it from this standpoint, every major phone release has hardware that can rival netbooks and ultra-portables, when the dual-core snapdragons hit later on, they may even be on par with low end notebooks. They contain cellular modems as well as wifi so you're constantly connected on a device that can fit in your pocket.
On the software side every major mobile operating system out there is constantly evolving and adding more and more features of that you can find on any PC/Linux/OSX box in the world. Albeit they're slimmed down versions, designed to be lightweight and functional on a smaller sized screen.
Add in google voice, a service that you can have your cell phone calls funneled into a single number or have your google voice number funneled into any other phone number you tell it to, plus you have skype. Installing Debian on a mobile device doesnt change the fact its still a cell phone the only it changes is how much this cell phone can do without restrictions.
Its the people who push software and hardware to there limits and into places they were never designed to be, that push the technology world and push the companies to do new things. There the pioneers who are trying to marry the inevitable before anyone else is ready. Those are the people who make companies like Google, Nokia, Intel, etc etc realize that there is potential in a risk, when there is a community ready to back them up. If it wasn't for the indie developers out there trying to minimalize linux to be used on cell phones we wouldn't have our beloved Android today.
You ask why, I'll answer because its inevitable. You can join the front lines or you can wait.
Not only am I a newbie, but I am also a timid newbie. I am reluctant to mess around with the stock software, and OS that came with my gTab. Most of the great apps, and advice on this site requires you to either flash the tablet, or root the device, etc. I am WAY too chicken to try this. I would love to be able to get to the usual Market as I can on my phone. I would also like to use Swype. Is there any way to "open" up the tablet to these without "major" surgery? I think a list of apps that can be manually installed would be helpful to inexperienced "chickens" like me. Or any add ons, that might improve our new baby would be most appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Search is a wonderful thing, everyone should try it...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=858136
Warning, if you stick stock you may end up returning it
Flashing a room is not difficult if you read/search/research.
copc said:
Search is a wonderful thing, everyone should try it...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=858136
Warning, if you stick stock you may end up returning it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't be ridiculous, it is fine with a few tweaks.
Flashing a room is not difficult if you read/search/research.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is like buying a brand new car, and then replacing the engine. Fine for some, but really not necessary.
Reggie777: I am going to apply the newest update to my stock g-tablet. This usually wipes out all user changes, including installed apps. I will actually follow my own post about doing the changes. I can't remember everything!
wasserkapf said:
Don't be ridiculous, it is fine with a few tweaks.
That is like buying a brand new car, and then replacing the engine. Fine for some, but really not necessary.
Reggie777: I am going to apply the newest update to my stock g-tablet. This usually wipes out all user changes, including installed apps. I will actually follow my own post about doing the changes. I can't remember everything!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Funny I had to pull nothing out of my gtab? LOL
Why would I pull the Tegra out just to flash a rom?
PS there is a reason that thread was on page 3 as there are fewer that are not flashing roms.
Plus the original point was that the "SEARCH" was a wonderful thing.
wasserkapf said:
Reggie777: I am going to apply the newest update to my stock g-tablet. This usually wipes out all user changes, including installed apps. I will actually follow my own post about doing the changes. I can't remember everything!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just did the 1.0.1-3053 update, and it appears all previous changes remained. I did have to re-root it with the z4root app. Those complaining of problems after this update seem to be running a customized ROM. You won't have these problems unless you flash a customized ROM.
wasserkapf said:
Don't be ridiculous, it is fine with a few tweaks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This whole argument is ridiculous. Not a single rom has done a single thing to the underlying "Stock" structure. They are all based from the original "Stock" stuff. The only thing they do is either add or subtract from the original base software.
There is no magic here. If you buy a new car and put shiny new wheels on it you have done the same thing. The car still has the stock engine, and basic structure. If you bought a house that was painted pink and didn't like how it looked you might paint it. Same house, just a new look.
So, your stock with tweaks is essentially the same as my stock with tweaks. I just choose to install the majority of the tweaks at one time with a simple rom update. You do yours one by one..
I don't care what anyone does with there tablet as long as you don't use it to start World War III. But the my mods are better than your mods argument is kind of silly.
Do whatever makes you happy. All I can say is that pretty much no matter what you do it can be put back to original in about 5 minutes. Boot loops, hangs, funky looking screens.. All part of the learning process. Some people seem to be more prone to it. Most of the issues I see people have come from them getting in a big hurry, not thoroughly reading the instructions given with almost every mod, and then flashing away. Slow down, read, and understand what you are doing and it will all typically go just fine.
Sprdtyf350 said:
This whole argument is ridiculous. Not a single rom has done a single thing to the underlying "Stock" structure. They are all based from the original "Stock" stuff. The only thing they do is either add or subtract from the original base software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true.
Some of the mods are based on the zpad image, a completely different image than the g-tablet. My only objection is people saying flashing custom ROMS is a must. That is nonsense, and I will say so every time I see someone post that.
The more updates that ViewSonic put out, it seems the fewer "tweaks" that will be needed.
Can we keep the trolling to World of Warcraft?
There are minor to major changes that can be done ROM wise. What is important IMHO is to give choices to someone that is just starting.
I have the impression the op would like TnTLite version vs Vega or Cyanogen or even ZPad.
I did start like you... almost happy with stock. But the more basic things I needed I noticed the original TnT wasn't good enough. I have changed to TnTLite myself and couldn't be happier.
Just check that thread. Its one stop and change.
Good luck
Bingo! Choice is king, if you don't like the choice you choose go back to stock. But atleast show all your choices, we are not all wanting the same build, hence we are not talking IPADS.
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I gather that rooting the gTab is not such a big deal after all? I had started with the impression that rooting and flashing the rom were similar, and equally "dangerous". I DID find the thread that copc referred me to after my starting this thread. We all have to start somewhere as newbies. Thanks too to Wasserkapf for his help.
Rooting will still allow you to get all VS updates. Same with doing the Market install.
Flashing a ROM can be scary, especially if you have lots of stuff on your tablet. I found that investing in Titanium Backup (requires root) was a great idea. I do a full backup every time I flash my ROM and restore apps and data afterwards; I have never lost data nor settings.
If you decide to flash TnT Lite or VEGAn (which is coming along nicely and really brings the tablet to life IMO), there are not only many posts but many friendly folks who are here to help you out.
I am very happy with my G Tablet and this community has been immeasurably helpful in making it so useful.
-=Sent from my ViewSonic G Tablet (VEGAn) using Tapatalk=-
Reggie777 said:
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I gather that rooting the gTab is not such a big deal after all? I had started with the impression that rooting and flashing the rom were similar, and equally "dangerous". I DID find the thread that copc referred me to after my starting this thread. We all have to start somewhere as newbies. Thanks too to Wasserkapf for his help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly we all start as newbies, and it's places like this that are great help.
Good News, everyone. I used z4root, and was able to root my gTab. I also was able to install Launcher Pro, so that now when I turn it on, I get the option of going to the old familiar Android layout as on my Droid. Thanks for the encouragement from you'all. The sky did not fall. Yeah!
I do have some questions, though.
1. If I accidentally load in the TapnTap home screen, I cannot get back to the launcher pro. I cannot find it on the tablet to run it. I can find the apk and it offers to install it again. So, can anyone tell me where it is hidden?
2. I downloaded the vendors apk in an attempt to get the old android market place as on my phone. But it will not install. I am sure I am doing something wrong.
3. There are some icons to the right, the web, messages, and the phone. Is there a way to remove the ones that do not work? Only the web works. I understand that the phone would not, and even the messages. But how can I remove them?
Again, thanks for the moral support and encouragement. I still find the structure of the tablet confusing. Internal SD, external SD, root, etc. Anyone out there with the technical know how could make quite a few dollars by writing a book explaining the wonders, procedures, and pitfalls of our new tablet.
Reggie777 said:
Good News, everyone. I used z4root, and was able to root my gTab. I also was able to install Launcher Pro, so that now when I turn it on, I get the option of going to the old familiar Android layout as on my Droid. Thanks for the encouragement from you'all. The sky did not fall. Yeah!
I do have some questions, though.
1. If I accidentally load in the TapnTap home screen, I cannot get back to the launcher pro. I cannot find it on the tablet to run it. I can find the apk and it offers to install it again. So, can anyone tell me where it is hidden?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On my tablet, just hitting the Home icon in the upper-right corner will do that. It is the second one from the top, on the bezel of the screen.
2. I downloaded the vendors apk in an attempt to get the old android market place as on my phone. But it will not install. I am sure I am doing something wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is the second thing on my list of tweaks. You need to download and install several files. Please follow the instructions:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
3. There are some icons to the right, the web, messages, and the phone. Is there a way to remove the ones that do not work? Only the web works. I understand that the phone would not, and even the messages. But how can I remove them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be able to drop a different icon, from the main screen 'Desktop' on top of it, essentially replacing it. To get different icons on the main screen, open the app drawer, and tap and hold an icon. To remove it from the main screen, tap and hold, and move it to the trash can on the right.
I got as far as downloading the zip file, unzipping it. But I am not sure what "mount as R/W" means. I am also not up on the structure of the storage of the Gtablet, and my computer sees .android_secure, Android, Backgrounds, backups, DCIM, download, and Lost.Dir. As a result, I am not sure where to copy the new files to. I moved the unzipped file to the download folder on the tablet. But I am not sure where to go from here. Being a newbie bites.
Reggie777 said:
I got as far as downloading the zip file, unzipping it. But I am not sure what "mount as R/W" means. I am also not up on the structure of the storage of the Gtablet, and my computer sees .android_secure, Android, Backgrounds, backups, DCIM, download, and Lost.Dir. As a result, I am not sure where to copy the new files to. I moved the unzipped file to the download folder on the tablet. But I am not sure where to go from here. Being a newbie bites.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought that the instructions were as clear as anyone could make them.
3. Using AndRootFile or any other file manager that supports root access, mount as R/W, and copy the contents of G Tablet\permissions to System\etc\permissions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That means to use a file manager that supports root browsing. The stock one doesn't, so you will need to install one. The link in the original post will get you the AndRootFile app, that should work. I purchased RootExplorer from the Android Market, so that is what I use. It has a "Mount R/W" button at the top, and I assume AndRootFile has something similar.
Oh, and root is to Unix/Linux/Android that Administrator is to Windows. You need root permissions to make system changes.
Once you have mounted it in R/W mode, copy the files to the folders that it says to. When done, don't forget to re-mount it in R/O mode before exiting.
My bad. I had used z4root to do the rooting. I'll try it with the one you suggested. Thanks.
Actually z4root should work for rooting the tablet. But it isn't a file browser with root access. That is where the other apps come into play.
OK. Here is my adventure so far. I got AndRootFile, and installed it. It is now working. But when I try to copy a file to another location, it does not want to copy the file. features.xml is an example of one that it shows the check box for copying, but when I get to the destination, there is nothing to paste. Frustrating. I also tried Rootexplorer, and have the same result. Now it looks as if the other new file in the new permissions folder copies, since it says it exists and do I want to overwrite. I said yes. But the second file, features does not show up even after I try to paste it. The good news is that I am figuring out the structure of the Beast, and so can move around much easier with AndRootFile, and RootExplorer. Thanks for your ongoing patience, and support.
It doesn't sound as if you are first mounting the file system in R/W (Read/Write) mode. And when finished, make sure you mount it back into R/O (Read/Only) mode before exiting.
I have searched for this sort of thread for a while. Though I've only been changing my phone around for a couple months(Rooted & ROM changes) It's clear that every developer/group feels there's is best. While I find that different ROMs have great features, it would appear that each and every one has it's flaws. I also find that a person can literally search for hours on how to install, manipulate, customize and BRICK a phone. As a "Senior Member" I still find myself lost. Due to recommendations, I've purchased more then my share of "helpful apps". I hope that the most "Senior Members" (w/ extreme, non bias, knowledge) can help remedy a few staples for all users.
A comparative, most stable and complete ROM list per phone (updated frequently)
What do I really need? I don't know. I have purchased Root Manager, Root explorer, Rom manager, Titanium Backup, Drop Box the list goes on. To date I'm not 90% sure what any of these do, nor how they work. Ex. I've backed up my ROMs with Titanium Backup but I've also backed them up with Rom manager. I've changed ROMs and couldn't figure out how to reinstall apps, settings etc. using either one of these. You can find yourself changing a ROM and taking 2 - 3 hr's reinstalling apps, themes and settings.
Kernels! there 30 times as many of these as there are ROMs. There should be some real understanding of these. It would appear that some kernels will change the look of the ROM or is it the theme, it changes? Neither? so why do I need them, what really are there function?
There are some brilliant minds at work here. Hopefully some of them can pitch in and offer answers to some basic "need to knows" for many.
Thank you all for the work that you do
I'm definitely an enormous Noob (capital N!) but by now I can flash ROMs fairly quickly and reinstall my apps in a few seconds with TiBu. I still do agree with you that it's a bit hard to take in *everything*. Something I've been wondering since I began flashing (ROMs, not anything indecent) is:
1. KERNELS. What the hell is their function exactly? I know their compatibility with the custom ROM depends on...which Captivate model the ROM is based on, I think. But how does one know or how can one tell which is compatible to which?
2. Modem. ?! How do I flash this? Why do I need to flash this?
3. Probably O/T but what the heck is ROM Kitchen?
4. What is the other way of flashing without using ODIN?
Knowing that would set me a little further from Noobers State, at least.
Lancered said:
I'm definitely an enormous Noob (capital N!) but by now I can flash ROMs fairly quickly and reinstall my apps in a few seconds with TiBu. I still do agree with you that it's a bit hard to take in *everything*. Something I've been wondering since I began flashing (ROMs, not anything indecent) is:
1. KERNELS. What the hell is their function exactly? I know their compatibility with the custom ROM depends on...which Captivate model the ROM is based on, I think. But how does one know or how can one tell which is compatible to which?
2. Modem. ?! How do I flash this? Why do I need to flash this?
3. Probably O/T but what the heck is ROM Kitchen?
4. What is the other way of flashing without using ODIN?
Knowing that would set me a little further from Noobers State, at least.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not an expert but this is my understanding.
1. Kernel: Set of controls that lets the software interact with the hardware of the phone. Typically affects GPS, battery, bluetooth, wifi, display, etc.
2. Modem: How your phone connects to and transmits voice/data/everything.
3. ROM kitchen is a tool to help build ROM.
4. You can flash new ROMs through ClockWorkMod Recovery. You choose to install new software from zip on sd card. It lets you install ROMs, Kernels, & modems, provided they have been setup to work with CWM.
Hope that helps answer some things.
Lancered said:
I'm definitely an enormous Noob (capital N!) but by now I can flash ROMs fairly quickly and reinstall my apps in a few seconds with TiBu. I still do agree with you that it's a bit hard to take in *everything*. Something I've been wondering since I began flashing (ROMs, not anything indecent) is:
1. KERNELS. What the hell is their function exactly? I know their compatibility with the custom ROM depends on...which Captivate model the ROM is based on, I think. But how does one know or how can one tell which is compatible to which?
2. Modem. ?! How do I flash this? Why do I need to flash this?
3. Probably O/T but what the heck is ROM Kitchen?
4. What is the other way of flashing without using ODIN?
Knowing that would set me a little further from Noobers State, at least.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Three more excellent questions, all of which for nubies and Seniors (without tech understanding) need to know.
trekie86 said:
1. Kernel: Set of controls that lets the software interact with the hardware of the phone. Typically affects GPS, battery, bluetooth, wifi, display, etc.
2. Modem: How your phone connects to and transmits voice/data/everything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good info but it doesn't help explain why there are so many of each. How is one to know what should be installed.
Different kernels allocate the phones resources in different ways.
For example sucker punch Or paragon allows the user to over clock the processor, as well as under volt. Both can be used to speed the phone up or reduce battery use.
Harcore speed mode tweaks brigtness settings, uses some tweaks to improve performance, and changes default from 250hz to 500hz
I guess it is like saying different kernels are like tuning your car up in different ways with different performance goals.
Modems performance appear to vary based off of your location. Only way to know what is best is to try them.
I do understand many are new to this (even I was new at some point of time). But there is one thing I would like to bring up in this thread.
A simple Google search would tell what the basic functionality of a kernel is. Likewise for most of things asked here.
Be patient, there are lots of people here who would guide/help u. Don't sound impatient nor show ur frustration here. This is a forum created by enthusiastic users, not by employees who are paid to service people.
1. Kernel:
Kernel is the heart of the system that keeps the phone running. U can consider the core machine level interacting portion of OS that translates all instructions to a format that the CPU can understand.It has complete control over everything that occurs in the system. The kernel provides basic services for all other parts of the operating system, typically including memory management, process management, file management and I/O (input/output) management.
Every kernel thread here has an OP where it tells what version it is based off, its features, etc.
Best way to know which is best for u: try it out. What's good for me may not be good for u.
2. Modem:
How do I flash this? : Modem thread is a sticky on development forum, and has details how to flash too.
Why do I need to flash this?: This is the core component needed to access the phone spectrum/signals.
3. Probably O/T but what the heck is ROM Kitchen?: OP says it all. This is one place where u can create a ROM by picking features/apps of the provided list. More for creating ur own custom ROM.
4. What is the other way of flashing without using ODIN? Check the first sticky thread in QA section "FOR NEW CAPTIVATE USERS - READ HERE FIRST - FAQs | HELPFUL LINKS"
So here's my .02 cents coming from a software engineer perceptive...
The kernel... It's the core/kernel of an operating system. It's main functions (as stated above) are to interact with the hardware a.k.a. Device Drivers, to manage resources (things like memory management and processor time sharing a.k.a. multi-tasking), service interrupt requests, network services and the like. It also provides a System Call Interface (API) to the user space (apps running on the machine) so the apps can use system resources.
Now the why so many part... First of all in general there are MANY options available when compiling (building) the kernel. Things like CPU schedulers, file system support, system type support (in the captivates case ARM), etc. etc. etc. So there are many different ways to configure the kernel and that gives many options to "test" and see which might work better or not. Some of them are dead giveaways like compiling the kernel for MIPS and trying to run it on the captivate won't work but some are "tweaks" that may help a little or a lot, like CPU management options.
Second part of the why so many is the code. Again as mentioned above things like changing code to make the colors of the display more or less sharp (display device driver), make the file system faster (voodoo lag fix) or overclocking the processor, and different "modem" tweaks are all "enhancements" that people have made to the original Linux kernel source. So those things "creep" into existence over time, since there are many people working on them, and you see different versions of the Kernel from that as well.
Anyone that plays music can relate to the options available in that there are only 12 notes on a guitar fret board but millions (or more) ways to put them together to play music. There are certain things that have to be present in the Kernel (notes) but writing code to enhance them and/or combining options at compile time is much broader (music).
ROM. Well IMO this one has a bad nomenclature. ROM is actually Random Access Memory and we flash an image to the "ROM" (which it really isn't but I'll leave that one alone). The "ROM" in this case is the operating system (a version of embedded Linux), which is the basic software needed to run and admin the phone, things like the Kernel, bootloader, device drivers, and file system plus any user apps like the phone dialer, launcher, etc. that are included in the ROM. As you can imagine the possibilities of customization are almost endless when it comes to the ROM. Different kernels, different drivers, different apps and many combinations of those. Thus we see all the different "ROM"s for the captivate with all the different options and unfortunately problems as well.
The modem is actually part of the kernel. It's the device driver for the phone hardware of the captivate. Being that it's part of the kernel it "works with" other code that's elsewhere in the kernel and ROM that is "tweaked" for a particular phone in this case. So when you see "use an i9000 modem with an i9000 kernel" it's because the code in the modem is written to work with the other code in the kernel. It doesn't necessarily mean it will brick the phone and/or not work but it quite often means it won't work the best if it's not "matched".
An example of the why so many here might be (and I'm just using this as a random example not a real world example) in the code below (which is the Samsung modem code in the SuckerPunch source in this case) notice the comment there about "no spec" and having to confirm how much time is needed to initialize. That may be an example where someone could play with those timings and get better performance out of the modem...
static void msm_reset(struct modemctl *mc)
{
<sniped code for briefness here>
gpio_set_value(mc->gpio_cp_reset, 0);
msleep(500); /* no spec, confirm later exactly how much time
needed to initialize CP with RESET_PMU_N */
gpio_set_value(mc->gpio_cp_reset, 1);
msleep(40); /* > 37.2 + 2 msec */
gpio_set_value(mc->gpio_phone_on, 0);
gpio_set_value(mc->gpio_cp_reset, 0);
}
So that's one example of how you might get another modem version if someone played with that code and saw better performance.
I don't know if that all helps or muddies the water, but again it's just an old software engineer's .02 cents.
mxracer101 said:
So here's my .02 cents coming from a software engineer perceptive...
<..............>
I don't know if that all helps or muddies the water, but again it's just an old software engineer's .02 cents.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good work!
I do understand many are new to this (even I was new at some point of time). But there is one thing I would like to bring up in this thread.
A simple Google search would tell what the basic functionality of a kernel is. Likewise for most of things asked here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For those seeking help, looking on XDA this is the #1 source for this information. Most other forums refer to XDA. So you should be in good hands
Be patient, there are lots of people here who would guide/help u. Don't sound impatient nor show ur frustration here. This is a forum created by enthusiastic users, not by employees who are paid to service people.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MOST crucial to understand this. PLEASE don't re-ask a question in several different locations. In most cases a question will be answered in a short time.
1. Kernel:
Kernel is the heart of the system that keeps the phone running. U can consider the core machine level interacting portion of OS that translates all instructions to a format that the CPU can understand.It has complete control over everything that occurs in the system. The kernel provides basic services for all other parts of the operating system, typically including memory management, process management, file management and I/O (input/output) management.
Every kernel thread here has an OP where it tells what version it is based off, its features, etc.
Best way to know which is best for u: try it out. What's good for me may not be good for u.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is an area I see more questions about, then I do ROMs. Be awre that all ROMs have built in kernels, it's a good idea to let the intended kernel do it's thing. This is a fine tweaking operation, learn what one does for each ROM. Don't feel you need to change it, because it's being talked about in a ROM post.
HTML:
2. Modem:
How do I flash this? : Modem thread is a sticky on development forum, and has details how to flash too. Why do I need to flash this?: This is the core component needed to access the phone spectrum/signals.
^^^^SEE ABOVE^^^^ Dito
kernels; the function has been explained so i wont go there. there are kernel settings that cant be changed once compiled that effect performance and battery life, often making one better hurts the other, kernel hz will affect the snappiness, some kernel devs like to put out 2 or more versions depending on the users preference. also there have been many mods made for the i9000, i9000 devs typically dont make ports for the other phones so the code is made available for other devs to include in there own kernels. part of the reason for soo many is that things are constantly developing but some people like what has been out there for a while. there are also a number of compiling tweeks that one developer or another may prefer.
some kernels have stock recovery 2e or 3e, some have cwm recovery some have steam recovery, some have a modded cwm recovery. cwm recovery and steam give you access to the rom backups (nandroid) and some other features, steam has a touch screen interface but the modded cwm versions have similar functionality with a hardware button interface.
lagfixes; lagfixes are incorporated into the kernel. some have "voodoo" which is ext4 and is like what non samsung android phones often have. voodoo only has a couple options and most run it default. voodoo lagfix options may be incorporated into the recovery or handeled by the presence of a folder/text file in the voodoo folder.
there is also ulf (universal lagfix/ultimate lagfix). ulf lets you choose between jfs, ext4, ext3, ext2 and rfs file systems on each partition. it also lets you do the earlier ext2 loopback like one click lag fix. it is total overkill with options an the benifits of each is subject to opinions and anecdotal observation. but if yo specifically want jfs it is the only option available on the captivate right now.
wifi; different wifi drivers cause problems with certain routers because of a security measure. once a couple fixes for this were found new kernels appeared.
other "voodoo" features; supercerio is the developer of voodoo and is obviously a talented dev. he has created a color/brightness/sharpness fix for the galaxy s line but the port to captivate kernels took some time to come about. some kernels have it and some don't. there is also voodoo sound which lets you change the amp output for the headphones.
overclock/undervolt; there was at one time development on this for captivate kernels in 2.1. it was stable but a lack of captivate froyo source kinda killed it. also there was no interface for it, changing settings was done on in a text file that you had to write into a folder with a script, people had trouble understanding it. many kernels now are i9000 ports but the undervolt code often causes "charge death" some prefer not to overclock do to this instability, but then glitterballs came up with a fix. glitterballs prefers the overclock settings to be "mild" they really arent in reference to a pc though, 20-28% is significant but still there are others that make 30-60% overclocks available. the overclock setting on some of these kernels is a multi stage setup and isnt that user friendly involving an app and configuration files. there are also sceduler differences that can balence battery life and speed but i think samsungs settings are just fine
basically if you want overclock i recomend glitterballs work. if youre phone handle 1300+mhz you must go elsewhere if you "need" the max your phone can handle.
if you dont care for overclock there are many other things to look at. kernel hz set at 500 is snappy but you may prefer battery life and find one set at stock or 300hz
if color sound is important to you and thats a big reason to by a galaxy s then you want voodoo color and sound. im not gonna talk about files systems and lagfixes because despite the apparent differences in quadrant the every day results are up for debate.
modems; im not gonna tell you to match modem to kernel because i never found that to be true.. what i will tell you is that if you use bluetooth and "need" hsupa(over rated) then dont choose a north american captivate rom other than the armani based roms. there are 5 poular ones for non captivates phones and many more that work as well, choose at random for all i care, the biggest factor is gps performance and none of them do poorly, i recomend jl3 but kp1 can work better with some playing around, it seems to not give a stable position because it constantly updates stalites, the list is constantly changing in lbs test mode but it does get more satalites in my experience. others are jk3/4 and jl2(different phone that jl3) some say in there area jl2 gets better transfers but i dont find that to be true here.
ported roms; i9000/m and t959/d ports are great and at this time dont give up too much, they work with canadian t959d and i9000m modems as well as many other oversees modems that have the att 850 band . but on some, not all but some ports you may experience sleep death. it's a captivate issue and captivate roms since jf7 have a fix incorperated, i have mostly good results on the ported roms but 1 or 2 have given me sleep death.
captivate roms; work great! use as is or add a kernel with x,yand z features. with a captivate rom you give up either bluetooth or hsupa but hsupa is over rated on a phone unless you tether or upload files directly from your phone, it does help snappiness loading web pages but seriously my isp gives me 30% the upload bandwidth that i get with hsupa and i only see about 50% of the hspa potential in my area. my 3g connection gives me 300kbps and my isp gives me 600kbps. i think non hsupa is fast enough most of the time.
to the op, titanium backup does a backup of your apk's and data for those apps. it is not recomended to restore all system data if a new rom has a different base rom. this is what to use to restore apps after a flash, chose the restore apps and data setting, if you have problems factory reset and restore apps only.
cwm backs up the rom. it is a fall back incase a flash fails. you need cwm recovery either in the kernel or in an "update.zip" in the root of the internal sdcard. if you have 2e recovery or modded 3e recovery in the kernel you need to reinstall packages to get there from the update.zip. you may need to try twice. you navigate with the volume and select with the power button.
if you have a stock 3e recovery (rare now that there are altenatives, unless you flashed a stock leak or rogers rom as is) it will fail, you will need to odin/heimdal/neldar sgskernel flasher app flash another kernel to reach cwm recovery.
root explorer helps you reach the system files. if you think you need it then get it but it is really most useful for making tweeks or installing themes, some of that is better done in a script via update.zip or remotely via adb so you may not want or need it.
Asking what ROM is best is like asking which midsized car priced in the mid $20k's is the best. They are all pretty close in quality and only differ so much, according to what the dev felt was pertinent to them. Look them over and see what people have to say about them and try it out. If you don't like it, flash another one. It really is that easy. As some of posted in other threads, it's fairly hard to totally brick your phone unless you have absolutely no clue what you're doing. It took me months to get to the point where I felt comfortable flashing and it scared the **** out of me to finally take the plunge. Now that i've done it, i'd have no problem doing it again when/if I find another ROM I like better than the one i'm on.
The absolutely best info I got was from this thread. I have no idea why it's not stickied. Connexion2005 has done an amazing job putting these together and has taught me more in the time it takes to watch the videos, than WEEKS of reading threads.
How to videos
Extremely thorough, thanks all!
Lancered said:
Extremely thorough, thanks all!
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You're welcome. It's why I started this thread
Thanks !!
Thanks to all who provided these great answers !!
Much appreciated.
This was a very informative read thanks
Sent from my SGH-I897 using XDA App
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MikeyMike01 said:
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Meaning what exactly?
How I love when people bash people who are new to particular technologies when those same people were once new themselves.
Point is, provide education not just answer the question.
askpcguy said:
How I love when people bash people who are new to particular technologies when those same people were once new themselves.
Point is, provide education not just answer the question.
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That was my intention when I started this. It was great to see the guys above hashed it out. Even with all my posts There's a ton that people don't get. My hope is people will ask questions AND NOT BE LOOKED DOWN ON!
There are many MANY great people out there in the know, that are willing to help. Post your need, someone will eventually answer. NO QUEST IS DUMB!