Kernel vs Roms vs Modems - Captivate Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Ive been trying to do alot of reading in learning the past week. i flashed my phone maybe 9 times already atleast. Now i keep reading abouts modem versions then kernels then roms. what are the difference? are they each upgradable on their own? Or do the roms upgrade them by themselves. Thanks in advance.

Some Roms upgrade through rom manager. But most of the time you have to flash the new version to get the update. Don't know much about kernals sorry but may somebody cam clearify for both of us
Sent from my phone exuse the typos(if any)

Put simply, the kernel is the part of the software that talks directly to the hardware, different modifications are included in kernels, such as lagfixes, the ability to overclock, and BLN (backlight notifications). Most of the custom Captivate kernels you see are in fact i9000 kernels that have been tweaked to work on our phones.
Once again put simply, a ROM is the operating system of your phone, it includes applications such as the Launcher, Phone, Contacts, Email, Calculator, Calendar, Market, etc. as well as any custom settings put in by the ROM maker (AKA chef) such as the sideloading of apps and root access. ROMs can be added onto later by the user such as the installation of themes or the removal of bloatware. Most of the recent ROMs are based on i9000 ROMs.
Modems are the software that talk to the cellular radio in your phone, they also seem to effect GPS performance. Modems are bit different from kernels and roms in that there aren't any custom modems. All the modems you see on the forums are from Samsung. Modems from several different Galaxy S variants work on the Captivate.
Most ROMs (and ROM updates) are prepackaged with a kernel and a modem, but all the parts can potentially be upgraded separately with the right knowledge. One thing to keep in mind is that to avoid issues you should not mix your parts. For example, in most cases if you use an i9000 modem with a captivate kernel you will not get any sound on phone calls.
The best thing to do before you flash anything is to read, read, read.

Related

[Q] Mod Kernel for Original ROM Froyo (FRG83G)

Hi all guys,
I have the original ROM Froyo FRG83G and now I don't want to change it.
But what is the recommended kernel to improve performance with the original Froyo ROM (in this case FRG83G)? (eg overclocking RAM to 512, etc.)
My radio is 5.12.00.08
Thank you very much for your help....
Guys, I would just like some advice as there are a lot of kernel to chose.
I'm reading a lot on the forum to make the right choice, without making mistakes. I would just like to be sure.
Any advice? Please ...
You can try the ones that are made for Froyo custom ROMs. I believe they can work on stock ROMs, at least some of them.
Your best bet would do a nandroid backup, download a couple of them, and test them.
As far as I've seen most Kernels work with most ROMs the dev specifically states that the ROM is Kernel dependant or only works with certain versions of Android/requires newer radio. Simply check what each ROM/Kernel requires and make sure you meet or exceed these requirements (Radio version is a typical requirement).
Try this Kernel first:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=820172
It is for stock ROMs with stock cameras (non 720P) based on AOSP code. It is a gingerbread ROM but is backwards compatible with Froyo.
This is also a good kernel with support for stock camera
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=693375
here is the direct link for what you want:
http://wildmonks.whoisthedrizzle.com/kernel/2.6.35/010411/No_720p_Stock_Froyo/
You can read about the different options, but I usually go with the SVS and CFS options. If you don't want the audio boost feature (I think you do) check that subfolder.
Also, Pershoot and Intersect Raven make great kernels (search the dev forum or hit the first sticky called [ROMs] - [Kernels] - [Radios] - Etc). But Pershoot usually does cyanogen mod kernels and IR does a lot of CM stuff too (although he as stock-compatible kernels I've never personally tried them; shame on me).
Remember to NANDROID first!!
thanks...
Ok ... thanks all for your help ... I'll try to follow your advice ..
Thanks again!

[Q] Basic principles for i9000m

so much info here yet can't find some of the simple answers i'm after.
i9000m, bell vibrant, 2.2 Froyo KC1 stock ROM upgraded via Kies.
Rooted, speedmod K13E 500hz kernel flashed via Odin. all good.
so....
i assume there are benefits of moving up the android scales eg 2.2 to 2.2.1 to GB but what exactly are these benefits and are they any better than the tweaks i get from speedmods kernel?
i'm interested in custom roms, but as above, what sort of benefits does one get going from stock to custom roms? (over and above flashing upgraded kernels?) - i read lots of threads about ppl being SOOO happy with their custom rom flashes but not a lot of detail about why they make them so happy!
wondering - should i try to flash GB? should i try another rom? dangers involved with the i9000m?
I like to keep up to date with firmware releases. I'm on 2.3.3 using Darky's 10.1 right now. The main benefit I find in all of this is the customization. Third party ROM's offer a lot more features and user options than stock ROMs.
The dangers...well, doing it wrong could lead you to a bricked phone. But following the guide provided by Darky (or other ROM devs) usually prevent that.
i'm in a pretty similar position to you it seems - have the same specs at present and only down the highway from you!
there are plenty of comparisons out there for the basics - not in xda (lots of great info but def more than basic!) - just google 'froyo vs GB' and it brings up some informative sites comparing the two.
am currently trying to decide on wot rom will be best for me....oh and sorting out the loss of GPS which i've only discovered today - it was there before i flashed speedmod i'm sure!

New to captivate

I just got a captivate last night and i have unlocked and and rooted it
it has a firmware of 2.1 - update 1
idk if thats the most recent update
i was told i can not update the phone with a t-mobile sim card in it so can anyone post a thread on updated versions and what do you all think is the best rom?
THANKS
There is no "best" rom. It's what's "best" for you. Read the forums and learn to flash 2.2 roms first.
I must warn you, flashing becomes very addictive.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
Yea i know i have a sidekick 4g and ive tried about every rom on it
thanks for the info though
Tyler0309 said:
Yea i know i have a sidekick 4g and ive tried about every rom on it
thanks for the info though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recommend trying MIUI, the customization is what puts it over the top!
Here are a few different versions of MIUI:
Galnet**What I prefer**
http://www.galnetmiui.co.uk/twooey/v3/Twooey-V3-i897.zip
Prototypes release
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1066885
MIUI.us
http://roms.miui.us/1.8.12/MIUI.us_captivatemtd_1.8.12_Eng_Deo_ZipA_Signed.zip
Ok ill give it a try..do i have to update to a different version> im running 2.1 right now
Tyler0309 said:
Ok ill give it a try..do i have to update to a different version> im running 2.1 right now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've not been on 2.1 since phone came out. I would use odin one click to goto 2.2 stock. Root it then install cwm and then follow this guide if your going to try Galnet's MIUI.
http://www.galnetmiui.co.uk/content/forum/guides/(guide)-i897-galaxy-s-captivate-gb-bootloaders/
Then just pop the MIUI.zip on root of sdcard and install from CWM.
Tyler0309 said:
I just got a captivate last night and i have unlocked and and rooted it
it has a firmware of 2.1 - update 1
idk if thats the most recent update
i was told i can not update the phone with a t-mobile sim card in it so can anyone post a thread on updated versions and what do you all think is the best rom?
THANKS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow... so... You should probably READ a lot more before flashing anything, but I'll give you a few hints to get you going:
1) Make sure you understand what a "PBL", "SBL", "Kernel", and "Modem" are and how they are placed/installed in your phone.
2) Learn how to correctly and safely use ODIN (and/or Heimdall).
3) Learn about the various methods of recovery for "soft bricks", and if necessary for your hardware revision, possibly invest in a jig (also learn what a jig is)
4) There are 2 different types/branches of ROMs for the Captivate:
-- Samsung Branch
-- AOSP Branch
Within the "Samsung" types you have:
- i9000 ROMs (like JVP, JVR, JP8, etc)
- i897 ROMs (like JF6, KF1, etc)
Within the "AOSP" types you have:
- CM7
- MIUI
- Other AOSP-based ROMs
Which is "better" is relative. CM7 and MIUI have features that aren't present in the Samsung ROMs, and both offer a bit more customization than the Samsung ROMs. However, only the Samsung ROMs offer GPU accelerated video playback, and they tend to have significantly better battery life than the AOSP-type ROMs. Also the Samsung-type ROMs used to be much more stable than the AOSP branches, but recently, the tide may have turned in the other direction. Some of the low-level radio settings are also unavailable in any of the AOSP builds. And finally, some of the Samsung stock camera features are unavailable in CM7/MIUI.
It really all depends what you want... Do you want closer to stock "open source" Android? Or do you want Samsung's vision of what they think Android should be?
Also, the whole kernel/modem part is dependent on what branch of ROM you plan on running. When using a i9000-Samsung ROM, you pretty much have to use an i9000 kernel and modem. When using a i897-Samsung ROM, you pretty much have to use an i897 kernel and modem. The rules for CM7/MIUI are a bit more vague, but at the very least you'll need to use a CM7/MIUI (most AOSP-type kernels are interchangeable) compatible kernel.
The best advice is really to try them all out and see what you like the most. If you're currently on stock 2.1 (which it sounds like you are), at the very least you should upgrade to some variant of Gingerbread (2.3.4 preferably). You will definitely notice a big difference in terms of speed and functionality. From there, well, it's all really up to you...
OR alternatively, just start throwing stuff on your phone and see what happens. Just PLEASE don't come crying back in the Captivate General forum with a "OMG I bricked my phone!!! Plz help!!!" thread. Fair warning...
Just a suggestion, but become familiar with Odin one click. Make sure your captivate has 3 button recovery, and read, re- read, and read again the directions of every rom before you flash it. Always make a nandroid back up if possible, and read the threads.if you have questions, so did someone else and the answer is probably already out there .use search. Some People will rip your head off if you don't. as far as miui goes .....i was a flashaholic when I got phone. After switching to miui, It is very unlikely that I will ever leave. Best rom ever imho. And it updates every Friday so that satisfied the flashing urge. Usually it gets better with each release. The last couple have been a little rough though. Might want to spend the 8 bucks and have a download jig on standby. Can get it from mobiltech videos. Its worth it though
Sent from my I897 using XDA Premium App
Shammyh said:
Wow... so... You should probably READ a lot more before flashing anything, but I'll give you a few hints to get you going:
1) Make sure you understand what a "PBL", "SBL", "Kernel", and "Modem" are and how the are placed/installed in your phone.
2) Learn how to correctly and safely use ODIN (and/or Heimdall).
3) Learn about the various methods of recovery for "soft bricks", and if necessary for your hardware revision, possibly invest in a jig (also learn what a jig is)
4) There are 2 different types/branches of ROMs for the Captivate:
-- Samsung Branch
-- AOSP Branch
Within the "Samsung" types you have:
- i9000 ROMs (like JVP, JVR, JP8, etc)
- i897 ROMs (like JF6, KF1, etc)
Within the "AOSP" types you have:
- CM7
- MIUI
- Other AOSP-based ROMs
Which is "better" is relative. CM7 and MIUI have features that aren't present in the Samsung ROMs, and both offer a bit more customization than the Samsung ROMs. However, only the Samsung ROMs offer GPU accelerated video playback, and they tend to have significantly better battery life than the AOSP-type ROMs. Also the Samsung-type ROMs used to be much more stable than the AOSP branches, but recently, the tide may have turned in the other direction. Some of the low-level radio settings are also unavailable in any of the AOSP builds. And finally, some of the Samsung stock camera features are unavailable in CM7/MIUI.
It really all depends what you want... Do you want closer to stock "open source" Android? Or do you want Samsung's vision of what they think Android should be?
Also, the whole kernel/modem part is dependent on what branch of ROM you plan on running. When using a i9000-Samsung ROM, you pretty much have to use an i9000 kernel and modem. When using a i897-Samsung ROM, you pretty much have to use an i897 kernel and modem. The rules for CM7/MIUI are a bit more vague, but at the very least you'll need to use a CM7/MIUI (most AOSP-type kernels are interchangeable) compatible kernel.
The best advice is really to try them all out and see what you like the most. If you're currently on stock 2.1 (which it sounds like you are), at the very least you should upgrade to some variant of Gingerbread (2.3.4 preferably). You will definitely notice a big difference in terms of speed and functionality. From there, well, it's all really up to you...
OR alternatively, just start throwing stuff on your phone and see what happens. Just PLEASE don't come crying back in the Captivate General forum with a "OMG I bricked my phone!!! Plz help!!!" thread. Fair warning...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well said.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA Premium App
Tyler0309 said:
I just got a captivate last night and i have unlocked and and rooted it
it has a firmware of 2.1 - update 1
idk if thats the most recent update
i was told i can not update the phone with a t-mobile sim card in it so can anyone post a thread on updated versions and what do you all think is the best rom?
THANKS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
a very simple and easy way to start with...
2.1 is eclair..
2.2 froyo
2.3 gingerbread..
means 2.1 is oldest and 2.3 is latest in case of official roms..
so obviously new version will hav more features and faster in speed...
so now u can take baby step and install 2.2 ..and use it for few days..and get the feel of it..then again after sometime u can install 2.3...
or else u can directly jump to 2.3....which is gingerbread....u can install stock kf1 on ur phone..its leaked official gb...if u search a bit..u will get it..
then u can use it for a lil while and get the feel of gb stock rom..in the meanwhile u can read xda abt available custom roms..and then install any of them...
coz every memeber here in xda will suggest the custom rom they r using..coz they r lovin the rom then only they r using....like for me..since the time i started flashin..i always used APEX ROM..so i will say its the best....
but again thats just me..
so decision is always urs...

[Q] ROMs and KERNELs

I have a question about kernels and roms regarding the competability. I believed I'm still considered new in the android sector though I have used 2.1, 2.2 and now 2.3.
Over the years, I have been using stock ROMs because and putting in my own kernel to get a good balance of performance and battery life. Recently I've have tried getting into custom ROMs as I felt that some stability issues I have read might be some user experience instead of a real stability issue. So I decided to give a go. I looked at certain ROMs but decided to go with more popular ROMs like DarkyRom, they until then I somehow bricked my phone (not ROM issue) and manage to save it back, I decided to go for a newer ROM, which might be as popular as my previous ROM. I decided to go for Doctorz Rom, since all these custom ROMs usually come with another kernel already, is it perfectly Okay to flash any other kernel (Kernel are competitable with the version of the firmware, of course) on the ROM, irregardless of whether the ROM is customized by a developer or not. Example, DarkyRom comes with darkcore kernel (I flashed it to speedmod because I saw that you can do it), Doctorz Rom come with semaphore kernel.
My question in simpler terms, is whether can I flash Doctorz Rom with say, darkcore or speedmod kernel?
simple question for which I am afraid there is no one, simple answer. Some roms play nice with most, if not all kernels, some don't. Similarly, some kernels seem to work with just about every rom, many do not. Hardcore's kernel is one of the more robust ones and usually works with most roms.
Part of the issue is the scripts used in many roms and kernels and what is left behind when you copy a new program to conflict with the new stuff.
(1) Always read the directions on any new kernel or rom.
(2) A clean phone will decrease the chances of having issues with any newly flashed kernel or rom. If your phone is cleansed correctly, any issues are solely a problem of the newly flashed firmware. Bits of legacy program can and do cause issues, which is why a system clean is important.
Thank you, that was the answer I needed
If you were happy with stock ROMs, you should be looking at slightly tweaked stock ROM. I was using Darky with all its bells and whistles for quite a long time. But recently I started to look for something more closer to stock versions and found Simplicity which does pretty good job for me so far.
The choice of ROMs and kernels is so wide that it's hard to decide and it depends if we want to achieve speed or stability. But you can mix ROMs and kernels definitely. I was using Darky ROM JVR with Semaphore kernel completely fine.
stiwipl said:
If you were happy with stock ROMs, you should be looking at slightly tweaked stock ROM. I was using Darky with all its bells and whistles for quite a long time. But recently I started to look for something more closer to stock versions and found Simplicity which does pretty good job for me so far.
The choice of ROMs and kernels is so wide that it's hard to decide and it depends if we want to achieve speed or stability. But you can mix ROMs and kernels definitely. I was using Darky ROM JVR with Semaphore kernel completely fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I decided to use custom rom because of the features, since i had nv used one before. I cant deny that stock ROM gives a very neat and clean rom which sometimes leads to more speed/battery life, but lets give these developers some.chance as well
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App

[Q][ROM] Kernels and ROMs

Hello people,
I have a bit of a noob question I guess. It's more about on how the Android (guessing any of it) is structured.
If we take a look into the different threads we find a number of versions of ROMs and stuff. But we also find different versions of Kernels.
My question is for example, if switching from lets say stock Android to a custom ROM( eg. Cyanogenmod, AOSP, etc) will it also change the Kernel or is the Kernel separate. Then again there is the question if any Kernel is compatible with any ROM.
I guess the more appropriate question is, does every ROM come with its own Kernel?
This is more just to have a clearer understanding of how this OS is working. Thanks!

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