Relatively Non-tech-savvy person needs help! - Galaxy Tab Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hey everyone!
So I'm obviously in the market for a tablet, and the Galaxy Tab seems to be the best fit considering its price and functionality.
I have two main issues I need help with:
First, I know Skype recently announced that the Galaxy Tab supports video calling. This is VERY important - one of the reasons I'm getting a tablet is to easily skype my sister (really, my niece) and my long-distance boyfriend. Does video-calling work on both the WIFI and the 3G versions? Has anyone had any problems getting Skype to work?
Second, I'm trying to decide whether to purchase the WIFI-only version from Best Buy ($279 right now) or buying a used 3G version from CowBoom for the same basic price. I like the idea of having the option of getting a data-plan at some point, but don't want to be locked into a contract. Also, the idea of getting it used is a little scary (although I'd probably get CowBoom's 1 year protection plan). How much does the faster processor on the 3G version actually impact its functionality? Any other reason to get the 3G, even if I never end up getting a data plan?
Some more details about what I'm looking to do, since that is probably helpful ... I basically want to be able to surf the internet, answer emails, watch hulu plus at home, use the Kindle feature to read on the metro, and Skype video-call my loved ones. I start a job in early December where I will get some kind of smart phone(BB now, but they are thinking of switching to I-Phone), which is why I'm considering getting a WIFI-only version.
Thats all, I really appreciate any help!

I wouldn't be afraid to buy the 3G version, the gps works better with a 3g radio, and there are some alternative roms available with the 3g versions, but none I know of for the wifi only.
I also believe skype only works on gingerbread 2.3.4, which you won't be able to get with the wifi only tab.
Sent from my SCH-I800 using Tapatalk

Even though I have the Verizon Gtab, you might consider a gsm, because there are many more roms available for it than the cdma version.
Sent from my SCH-I800 using Tapatalk

Related

[Q] Which version of the Galaxy Tab should I get?

Hi guys,
I plan on buying a Galaxy Tab and plan on using it wi-fi only, so it doesn't matter to me which version I purchase but I'd like to know which version of the tab is easier to hack and get the best use out of?
If I get the wi-fi only version that just got released, can I still use some of the custom roms out there?
Thanks
I won't use the 3G part of it but if I decide to go with a 3G version, should I go with the GSM version or a CDMA version? I know if I go with a GSM Version, I can flash a european FW and use it for phone calls,etc but I have no intention of doing that. All I want to be able to do is have a good working custom rom to get better battery life,etc...
Well the wifi version is new and has no custom roms yet. CDMA version is mostly carrier restricted so rom development is hard. Finally GSM version is easiest one to install custom rom on although i advice you to read alot before flashing custom roms.
DarkPal said:
Well the wifi version is new and has no custom roms yet. CDMA version is mostly carrier restricted so rom development is hard. Finally GSM version is easiest one to install custom rom on although i advice you to read alot before flashing custom roms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I am quite familiar with flashing ROMs, mainly for phones though. I read somewhere that T-Mobile has a lot of restrictions, is that true?
Mine is a GSM, Wi-Fi, Version the P1000.
I have had a GSM card in it to test it out, and since removed it.
Although i like to have the option of doing so.
For that reason alone, id suggest the GSM, wifi version.
Just my 2 cents.
I have the GSM 3G wifi Tab and is soooo happy!
I also have two friends who bought the wifi only version and later hoped they got the 3G one..
The WiFi version has BT 2.1 rather than BT 3.0 if you care much about that. Otherwise, the specs are almost the same as the AT&T version. I got the WiFi only, but found that there are at least three Samsung accessories that come up as "not guaranteed to work with your device". The HDMI dock, car charger, and car cradle are the main ones. I don't know if this is due to a lack of testing with the WiFi only, or if it is missing drivers/software/hardware that is needed to use those.
Regardless, I'm happy with mine until a version with a nicer screen comes out. I'm especially happy with the ability to dump just about any media file onto the MicroSD and it will play it.
.
WiFi Tab has a PowerVR SGX530 vs. GSM Tab's PowerVR SGX540
Wifi version also has different CPU.
With lower spec GPU, it can't play high-bit-rate 720p and 1080p which the 3G version can handle without problem.
thanks guys. I guess 3G version is a better choice.
I suggest a gsm [at&t/tmo] version. They have 16gb build in.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA Premium App

Carrier GT or WIFI only GT??

Hello,
after looking into the Nook Color then the Viewsonic Gtab, I have arrived at the Galaxy Tab. I have a rooted Fascinate, so I am savvy with flashing custom Rom's, using clockwork etc, Samsung Galaxy stuff...
My question is....
There are several Sprint GT on ebay.. there are a few wifi only model's for sale.
I don't need the data from sprint..I'll just tether to my phone..
I am definitely planning on rooting and installing a custom Rom/Kernel.. BUT
I have noticed there are more custom ROM's out for the carrier branded GT's versus the Wi-Fi only..
I have read through this forum a few times over, and have read once that you can buy a carrier GT and NOT activate. It will work fine, but will it work fine if I put a custom ROM on it with it not activated and use it for wifi only?
The real question:
Buy a carrier branded GT and NOT activate vs.. WIFI only GT ? Like I said, definitely planning on installing a custom ROM.
thanks in advance!
david
There is far more development for carrier tabs. And yes it woulda work fine with a custom rom.
Sent from my "better than an iPad" tab... Running Overcome GINGERBREAD!!!
I know spacemoose1 will be working on porting over his work shortly to the GT P1010 (wifi only) as soon as he has finished gsm and cdma. The port over should not be too long either so think looking at a short lead time (hopefully). But untill then we have to wait for either Spacemoose1 to work his magic or the gods of Sammy upgrading.
I know I prefer the wifi model as have I9000 and tether and its perfect for me, have it rooted and running few tweaks so its real quick and compares very well with some of the latest out there but if you really need to install custom roms right now then this device is not for you, but if you wait a bit more then hopefully we will have something to play with.
Regards
--
update and link to http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1020167 Spacemoose1 work
Personally I like the option to either go through wifi or use 3G... Depends on how you want to use it, what country you're from, gsm vs. cdma, and if you want to spend a few $$ more on the carrier tab...
I tend to find the p1010 tabs are cheaper, but then so is the hardware....
ATM if you go to ebay australia, sprint tabs are being sold fairly cheaply (vs the gsm tabs we use here) and as wifi only, which they are in Oz as we no longer use any cdma networks... Saw one go for $170AUD...
Cheers...
Thanks everyone for the input!
Sounds like it's acceptable to purchase a carrier tab and not activate, custom Rom's will work even if it's not activated, and that there is not a lot of development for the wifi only version..
Here's my next set of questions:
Should I be concerned about using an aftermarket charger? See this :
http://cgi.ebay.com/SAMSUNG-GALAXY-TAB-SPRINT-WIFI-SPH-P100-16GB-MINT-/270745593659?pt=Cell_Phones&hash=item3f09b1e73b
Good price, but doesn't include the stock cables, box etc.. should I be looking for the stock cables? I know the Samsung Fascinate is picky about what usb cable you use for it, and would assume that would apply to the GT as well.. if I should could I buy this one and get the stock cables somewhere else?
Is there one carrier that has more development done for it, or is Sprint a safe way to go for development (being able to use a custom rom/kernel etc?)
thanks again..
Don't bother with the wifi tab (P1010) it is nothing alike, outdated and underpowered.
ComponentP1000/SCH-i800P1010CPUSamsung Hummingbird S5PC110
1GHz, 596MB ram
TI OMAP3630
1GHz, 596MB ram
GPUSGX540SGX530
Weight380g385gAGPSYesNoBluetooth3.0+EDR with A2DP2.1+EDR with A2DP
Only thing there that's compelling aside from the phone part is Bluetooth but as don't use it for phone do not need this and have keyboard doc in office so not worried..
The performance (anecdotal ) is thy compare like for like as tab doesnt run phone so it has freed up resources.
Its really if you need it foe phone then coil
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
Lttlwing16 said:
Thanks everyone for the input!
Sounds like it's acceptable to purchase a carrier tab and not activate, custom Rom's will work even if it's not activated, and that there is not a lot of development for the wifi only version..
Here's my next set of questions:
Should I be concerned about using an aftermarket charger? See this :
http://cgi.ebay.com/SAMSUNG-GALAXY-TAB-SPRINT-WIFI-SPH-P100-16GB-MINT-/270745593659?pt=Cell_Phones&hash=item3f09b1e73b
Good price, but doesn't include the stock cables, box etc.. should I be looking for the stock cables? I know the Samsung Fascinate is picky about what usb cable you use for it, and would assume that would apply to the GT as well.. if I should could I buy this one and get the stock cables somewhere else?
Is there one carrier that has more development done for it, or is Sprint a safe way to go for development (being able to use a custom rom/kernel etc?)
thanks again..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PS: This eBay tab above is sold as used?
As for a tab with SIM or not, I think it's a matter of personal preference. Mine is the European unlocked model GT-P1000 but I never use the SIM/provider thing since I hook it to Google Voice which does it over wireless.
I flashed it to the latest OverCome RC1 and I am sure you can do the same with others.
I've heard nothing but moderate reviews on the wifi model. I decided to go with a Verizon tab. The price was attractive at $199.99. The downside of course is that it locked me in to a two year contract with Verizon.
I decided to get the 1gb a month plan for $20. After taxes it is about $23. I like having the ability to hop on 3g when needed, but I primarily use the tab in places that have WiFi. In addition, as others have posted, I have been able to use the tab on my Captivate's unlimited data plan via WiFi tethering. With this, even in places with no WiFi, I can use my phone's connection and not burn through the Verizon plan's allowance.
The only drawback I can really cite is that there is far more in the way of custom roms available to for the GSM tabs. Verizon is CDMA (as in Sprint.) But, as others have also mentioned, there are a few custom roms already available for CDMA, and there are a few new ones coming in the next few weeks that look very promising.
I can't really speak to the European, or other models outside of the US.
Ultimately, I really love my tab and have been very very happy with its capabilities. Having tinkered with both iPad1 and 2, I have to say that I heartily endorse the Galaxy Tablet over both.
Anyway, that is my $.02

[Q] Which Galaxy Tab?

I am considering purchasing a used/refurbed Galaxy Tab to use primarily as an e-reader. I won't be activating it on a carrier and will use it wifi-only. I have been browsing these forums for possible ROMs and OC kernels and find the organization very confusing versus the forums I'm used to (EVO, Nook Color, Thunderbolt) and I figure this is because there are so many different versions.
So, which is the best for OC and ROMs? It looks like the Sprint and Euro versions have 1.2-1.4Ghz overclock kernels available so should I look for a Sprint one? Do the Tmo,VZW, and ATT ones not have OC kernels?
Thanks!
Go for a GSM version. It has the most customizability at the moment.
Do all GSM ROMs work on all GSM tabs (Att, Tmo, Euro?). I liked the idea of putting a Sprint SGT on Boost Mobile and getting unlimited 3G for 11/mo but I probably will be using WiFi most of the time and 3G isn't a requirement as stated in OP.
Thats one of the resones I got the sprint version, I bought used one with bad esn on craigslist for $150.
Sent from my SPH-P100 using XDA App
ranchosteve said:
Thats one of the resones I got the sprint version, I bought used one with bad esn on craigslist for $150.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mmm, if your device has a bad ESN, I thought it would not be possible to put it on Boost since Boost *is* Sprint and use the same ESN DB. Cricket or PagePlus would be possible, though...
wy1d said:
Do all GSM ROMs work on all GSM tabs (Att, Tmo, Euro?). I liked the idea of putting a Sprint SGT on Boost Mobile and getting unlimited 3G for 11/mo but I probably will be using WiFi most of the time and 3G isn't a requirement as stated in OP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Sprint tab has generally been the easiest to get for the lowest price, modulo the once-blue-moon $200 AT&T refurb deal. You can easily find a Sprint tab on ebay for $250 or so.
I decided to spent a little more and get an AT&T tab, since it is GSM and supports Euro 3G bands. But in retrospect, not sure it matters that much. I thought I would want to flash custom Roms, which are mostly all GSM. But now I'm thinking just to wait for the official 2.3 release, in which case, the Sprint tab is probably going to be first (in a few days). Who knows when the AT&T release will be... they seem to be the slowest in such things.
But it is cute that I have been able to unlock my tab, stick in a cheapo Tmo SIM and do SMS and maybe voice with a little more work. Not sure I'd ever really use it though... Skype works excellent with Wifi...
wy1d said:
I am considering purchasing a used/refurbed Galaxy Tab to use primarily as an e-reader. I won't be activating it on a carrier and will use it wifi-only. I have been browsing these forums for possible ROMs and OC kernels and find the organization very confusing versus the forums I'm used to (EVO, Nook Color, Thunderbolt) and I figure this is because there are so many different versions.
So, which is the best for OC and ROMs? It looks like the Sprint and Euro versions have 1.2-1.4Ghz overclock kernels available so should I look for a Sprint one? Do the Tmo,VZW, and ATT ones not have OC kernels?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash a T-Mobo or AT&T into an Euro GSM.
I think you need to figure out what you want out of the Tab exactly to be able to decide which Tab to get.
If you will use it as an ebook reader then you don't really need OC. As a matter of fact the 3G Tab runs quite smooth at standard voltage if you choose a good ROM/kernel
oh i want it as an ereader. but it's gotta be a BADASS ereader. Light browsing/apps/games occasionally but I have a Thunderbolt and an ultra portable laptop (Thinkpad x220) for emails/voice/text/etc.
sounds like it's still kind of a mixed bag on which carrier and i should probably just go for whichever is cheapest?
I ended up getting a Sprint tab for cheap off craigslist. Waiting for a rooted Gingerbread ROM with overclock!
I did notice that the wifi version was underpowered so the carrier versions are recommend.
Sent from my SPH-P100 using XDA App

ATT Galaxy Note 1 (i717) on T-mobile?

Anyone done this? There seems to be some gray area on data services. I don't mind flashing a new rom to obtain 4G, which ive read one person has done.
Anyone accomplished this move?
Yes a lot of us have done this... Im running stock tmobile ics wth blaze modem.. Om my att note
Sent from my SGH-T879 using xda app-developers app
Yep, running Jedi with Blaze modem.
Chicks dig it. T-mobile on my AT&T branded note.
Sent from my SGH-T879 using xda app-developers app
Hi. As long as you have the correct modem to pull in 3g/4g you can run any rom- tmobile or att. I have the modem UVLG3modemfori717_gt-n7005amss. Works just as good as Blaze for me.
Ran Jedi and was very happy with it. Now am running Jedi-sons of android(att by ptmr3) 4.2.2
sashusmom said:
Hi. As long as you have the correct modem to pull in 3g/4g you can run any rom- tmobile or att. I have the modem UVLG3modemfori717_gt-n7005amss. Works just as good as Blaze for me.
Ran Jedi and was very happy with it. Now am running Jedi-sons of android(att by ptmr3) 4.2.2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I woud LOVE to run an At&t JB rom. But i need wifi calling at my house since T-Mo has no towers close by. Wish someone could/would figure out how to get WiFi calling on that rom.
Sent from my SGH-T879 using xda app-developers app
mahgninnuc93 said:
I woud LOVE to run an At&t JB rom. But i need wifi calling at my house since T-Mo has no towers close by. Wish someone could/would figure out how to get WiFi calling on that rom.
Sent from my SGH-T879 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that's the main reason I stick with stock rom [mine sgh-t879], rooted, and way debloated.
fabulous device really. 2 days of batt life [i turn it off when I sleep], lean, mean, fast, beautiful.
I use wifi exclusively in home home-office and every other place I get a chance, which as everyone knows is an increasingly long list.
the only 'bug' I have at the moment is something sporadically defeating NoLED which I use for notifications, and that Noozozide [a fabulous app] doesn't like something in there... probably the google play player. haven't had time to sort that yet.
I was reading that the tmo wifi app was figured out to work on another android phone(can't remember what one)- they altered the build prop and hacked the apk. Too bad no one is interested in doing this for the ATT note There are so few ATT Notes running on tmobile. Once they are out of contract- another year or so, and they will be moving on to newer phones. Jedi4 worked for me as far as wifi calling- but I have no need at present for the wifi calling feature, but it is great when you need it!
I was looking into the new tmo uncarrier plans and thinking about getting the iphone5 to add to my android collection- but no wifi calling for it. At least not initially, and they are being coy about future plans for it. If I am gonna get a new tmobile phone it should have wifi calling. Am going to europe in the fall and it will come in handy!
I love my note- really do, but there are times I would love a smaller phone to slip into my pocket and go. The Note is huge- at times a great thing, at times a not so great thing. New Iphone will rescue my itunes and make music an easier managed thing on the computer. Doubletwist and air sync just isn't the same. Might have to get my apple hacking tools sharpened!
the sgh-t879 is just fabulous and a bit of a bargain, though the i717 is typically a tad less in pristine condition.
As far as I know samsung T-mo variants have the Wifi calling very solid but I don't know what to expect going international - you obviously need a world phone multi-band.
we have the SII, the "S 4G" and the Note - all deliver the beans well on wifi. The Blaze does also and is the better choice vs. the S 4G, as we've found out.
I understand what you mean about smaller size - you may have to go Nexus but I despise the fixed battery [the life is not great...do not let anyone fool you] and lack of removable storage. if you want to go cheap, get the LG optimus L9... its a great phone to use just out of the box debloated: wifi is excellent. the knock is there's not many hacks for it since LG made it difficult. those can be had for 250 bucks and sold for nearly the same as it gets terrific user reviews. around here [austin tx, san antonio etc] some steals come around on craigslist ... people get those with a contract upgrade for free, then sell on c'list to go buy a note or some other thing. have seen new ones for $175
sashusmom said:
I was reading that the tmo wifi app was figured out to work on another android phone(can't remember what one)- they altered the build prop and hacked the apk. Too bad no one is interested in doing this for the ATT note There are so few ATT Notes running on tmobile. Once they are out of contract- another year or so, and they will be moving on to newer phones. Jedi4 worked for me as far as wifi calling- but I have no need at present for the wifi calling feature, but it is great when you need it!
I was looking into the new tmo uncarrier plans and thinking about getting the iphone5 to add to my android collection- but no wifi calling for it. At least not initially, and they are being coy about future plans for it. If I am gonna get a new tmobile phone it should have wifi calling. Am going to europe in the fall and it will come in handy!
I love my note- really do, but there are times I would love a smaller phone to slip into my pocket and go. The Note is huge- at times a great thing, at times a not so great thing. New Iphone will rescue my itunes and make music an easier managed thing on the computer. Doubletwist and air sync just isn't the same. Might have to get my apple hacking tools sharpened!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just wanted to chime in for a moment. I acquired a att note from eBay a couple of weeks ago and I am running the jedi 4 ROM and WIFI calling is great with no hiccups. It's fast and beautiful. Now mind you I am coming from a gs2 before the jellybean upgrade. In fact the second day my wife had the gs2 was when the update was pushed out. Moving on since I am rambling, i love my note it fits right in with my nexus 7. The only thing I wish was that jellybean was out officially I require WiFi calling......
Sent from my SGH-T879 using xda app-developers app
Access LTE on T-Mobile
Hi just wanted to chime in. If T-Mobile has LTE in your area, you can access it by using the stock AT&T Rom and Modem. Just root it and Debloat it. Here's some of the speeds I've been able to get. The only thing, When I'm sitting at my desk at work, I have to switch to a different modem to pick up 3G and HSPA+ (21.6 Mb/S) I will say every test that I did using the stock AT&T modem was higher than any other modem I used.
Everyone seems to be talking about wifi calling.. how well does normal calling work? how is the signal over all? is it worth it to get an AT&T version and try to use the blaze modems instead of getting the T-Mobile version?
Just use jedi leader ics 4.0.4 it has wifi calling and stable...for tmobile version...
Sent from my SGH-T879 using xda premium
hey guys, i got my wife an ATT Note for Tmo. All i did was unlock it put in her Tmo sim and that was it. No root, or rom, or any different radio flashing. She only gets 4g no LTE though. Is there a way to get LTE??
mcernuto said:
hey guys, i got my wife an ATT Note for Tmo. All i did was unlock it put in her Tmo sim and that was it. No root, or rom, or any different radio flashing. She only gets 4g no LTE though. Is there a way to get LTE??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
are you using the t-mobile lte apn setting? fast.t-mobile.com

[Q] Which one do I want? D:

Upgrading from a very buggy Galaxy S4 here. (The bugs are my fault and I'm not savvy enough to fix them, so I just deal with them.) Have a few questions about which version of the S6 I should get because I'm seeing a lot of info and I'm not really sure what all of it means, so hopefully you guys can give me straight and simple answers.
1. I'm currently on Straight Talk using AT&T. However, Verizon is overall the best in my area, so if I get switched to a new client where AT&T doesn't work I may need to change back to Page Plus quickly. I'm seeing conflicting information on the unlocked versions of these phones, but there does seem to be hope out there that it's possible for some versions to be able to switch between the two easily. Which version do I want if I want to be able to switch between AT&T and Verizon? If you're bored and want to look or know of a handy link where I can buy one of these phones, please feel free to toss it at me. eBay sellers 75% of the time don't seem to know what they're selling when it comes to unlocked phones.
2. An out-of-the-box, working mobile hotspot feature is extremely important to me. My S4 is messed up primarily because my attempt at making the hotspot work didn't go as easily as it was supposed to. I've seen on these forums that some users are saying that at least the Verizon version will work if you use FoxFi, no rooting or tether file hacking required (so no risk of me breaking my phone, yay). I have the paid version of FoxFi already, so that's good news if it's true. Confirm/deny and is the same true for the AT&T version if I had to get that instead?
In case it makes any difference: I'm not really set on getting the Edge if I have to get the regular S6 for the above features, I just couldn't decide which forum to post this in.
Thanks all!

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