Related
***Informative Threads***Post your question / issue / success story / etc. in the appropriate threads instead of starting a new thread!
Do NOT post a new thread to ask a QUESTION!!!
If your post has a question mark in it, you most likely need to post your thread in the Q&A Section
[Build Indexes] - Don't ask which build is best -- choose for yourself based on the features you desire!
androidspin.com
SimonNWalker & a group of Android Community members are maintaining a site which showcases the feature sets of the latest and greatest android builds ("roms" if you prefer). Check here to see "which is best" and try them out for yourself. The site is also ripe with news about Android development and more. XDA Thread
androidrevisions.com
Sir Savant is maintaining another build database. This web app allows for sorting / filtering / etc - XDA Thread
Google Docs Build Spreadsheet - View and edit build info - Google Docs Build Spreadsheet
[Guides/Tutorials/Info]
HTC Dream overview and useful information - Wiki article
Highly recommended for beginners.
In the beginning... There was ROOT
Lots of good definitions, history, and an excellent overview of most things going on here.
SPLs for DREA100 & DREA110 (Orig, Eng, Hard)
Contains information and downloads for SPLs (Secondary Program Loader) for the Dream. A modded SPL is instrumental in restoring from backup, preventing a brick, applying builds designed for foreign markets, etc.
Nandroid v2.0 - Full NAND backup and restore tool
In-depth discussion of your best friend whilst modding your android device. A good Nandroid backup regimen will pay dividends to keep you up and running.
Basic adb/root commands for noobs
Using ADB and terminal commands for your Android phone.
Surviving a Data Wipe / Update (Reduces Force Closes, too!)
Save (most of) your data while switching between builds (wipes are not your enemy!!)
Cyanogen's recovery partition
Amon_Ra's Recovery Partition
Modded recovery and boot images
SDSPLIT repartition your SDcard on phone (w/o a PC) - NOW handles > 2G FAT!!!
An easy way to re-partition your SD card without a PC.
LucidREM's Latest JF mod scripts
The swiss army knife of build customization
Auto-lucid script by tehseano
Let's fix that SPL Pay attention too post 3
Report in here if your phone is unresponsive after applying the 1.33.2005 SPL released by Haykuro. If you can get into Recovery or the SPL bootloader screen (three skateboarding androids), this is not you.
ROM guide for HTC Dream
T-Mobile G1 User Guides/Manuals
HTC Dream Wiki
"Brick" Thread or Technical Think Tank for Bricked G1's
If your phone is stuck at your splash screen (most likely a big white "G1")...if you you think something is broken...if you otherwise think you have a brick, post here instead of starting a new thread and any online members will do everything they can to help you out. (Reading as much as possible of these threads before posting will give you lots of insight as well!!)
Benchmark your build (apps thread)
[HOW TO]
STOCK-2-CYANOGEN / Root, Recovery, Radio, Rom / Partition SD / FAQ
How To Partition SD Card With Ubuntu For Dummies
Partition sdcard w/parted,goto ext3/4 & install rom from adb. no liveCD req'd
UNROOT, get phone to STOCK firmware
Reverting back to stock firmware.
New and improved Apps to SD(more stable, more powerful, etc)
The latest tutorial on how to get apps to SD.
Convert and mount ext2 sd partition ( /system/sd ) to ext3
Tools and instructions to add journaling to your ext sd card partition (apps2sd, etc). trust me, journaling is a good thing!
Register the G1 without a sim or data plan
Increase Max Volume -- Automated, no reboot needed
ADB for Dummies Supported Operating Systems Drivers and SDK
Get Home Auto Rotate on JFv1.51
Unpack, Edit, and Repack Boot Images
Create and edit "recovery" and "boot" .img files -- this thread is not for splash images.
Custom SPLASH Image
Replace that G1 splash logo that displays when your device turns on.
Alternative way to creating a SPLASH image
View Man Pages in terminal / adb shell
Mount SD card in recovery via adb
Use ash as your login shell
[MOD]user configurable userinit.sh V0.1.4.1 for CM
config file for setting up compcache, tweaks, etc. at boot
[How to] mount SD card in recovery.
Ported Hero Programs:
HTC Camera
HTC Music
***Developer Links***
Developers - Instead of maintaining a list of builds, I've changed this list to include links to your publications (blog, twitter, main release thread, etc.) let me know when / if you want these modified or if any should be added -- I'm sure I've missed some of you!
JesusFreke's Blog
Haykuro's Blog
TheDudeOfLife's google code page
Cyanogen's Twitter
TwistedUmbrella's Twitter
justanothercrowd's twitter
Stericson's twitter
For links / info on particular builds, check out the AndroidSpin, Android Revisions, or the Google Docs Build Spreadsheet
This index will be updated as needed.
Please keep comments on topic!
-Thread Stuck-
Other stickies un-stuck.
Please do not post in this thread unless you have a suggestion on how to improve it. Off topic and dealt with requests will be deleted without warning.
Oh, and thanks alapapa.
Enjoy
Dave
something on how to install, or update the radio would be nice.. i dont see anything, though im a noob, and it might be there and i just dont understand lol. sorry if its there already. im off to search!
Many of these links are 404 or no longer applicable.
This post needs a serious overhaul.
pretty much all of the links are 404's
...so I am compelled to root. ALL I care about is unlocking that other 256 (himem, I think it's called) for use and apps2sd would be nice but not necessary. Any other practical enhancements would be welcome. I'm using build ERE27. So which ROM fits that description best and where are the easiest instructions with links to download? I have been all over this and other sites and there are so many tutorials and none seem identical. Try Youtube and you know what you get? The most popular root tutorial (by far) flat out tells you from the start "This is not for beginners". Well, where the **** is the one for the beginners? I've jailbroken Iphones and flashed ROM's on to WM devices but I've never seen a more convoluted method to implementing a ROM replacement for a phone. Step by step (with backup reminders at critical times during process) would be great.
For example (from CyanogenMod):
Before continuing, you should first copy all the necessary files to your SD Card. Doing so will make the entire process much easier and faster.
Files you will need:
Download the latest release of CyanogenMod for the Nexus One and the Google Addon from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=623496
Download the latest release of Amon_Ra's Nexus One Recovery Image from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=611829
Rename Amon_Ra's recovery file "Recovery.img", and copy all three files to the root of your SD Card
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sorry, did you not just provide me with 2 files to download? Where does the third come from? And why does every "Link" lead to a full page with 3700 more links rather than just a freaking file to download??
Even Droiddog uses a Mac during the process because a PC would have been far too convenient for the masses (Plus I don't want the Desire ROM-too borky).
Preparing myself beforehand (going through the motions of the root without rooting) led to me opening 7 windows instead of direct file downloads. 7 Windows. 7. Does it really have to be this arduous?
I'm sorry for the frustration but deciding to root was suppose to be the hard part. Now I'm just overwhelmed with the unnecessary difficulty of it all. In truth, I'll probably be posting "thanks" from a rooted N1 by tomorrow and wondering what was so hard about all of that.......or I'll be crying over a $530 brick in my hands.
I believe Cyanogen mod (latest version in the link) includes the himem by default, just install that and you'll get the more available RAM (unless there is more steps to the process), I do not use Cyanogen.
Please note this is not the iphone OS we are dealing with here, things will not be as simple as a button press.. I honestly do not know what a "noob guide" is when it comes to Android, it all seems so straightforward to me... If I rooted my G1 and I'm only 13, not even being a nerd at that (wouldn't care if I was though..), I would imagine it not being hard for anyone..
At least the ram thing can be fixed with an ota. It looks like the multitouch problem is hardware. I feel like the ram, choppy scrolling, weird picture quality and image issue should really be solved by now by official update. I can see stringing us along for software upgrades like cupcake, new market, etc...but software fixes should be released asap. Any eta on the nexus 2?
DMaverick50 said:
At least the ram thing can be fixed with an ota. It looks like the multitouch problem is hardware. I feel like the ram, choppy scrolling, weird picture quality and image issue should really be solved by now by official update. I can see stringing us along for software upgrades like cupcake, new market, etc...but software fixes should be released asap. Any eta on the nexus 2?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Choppy scrolling is just that launcher2, and has nothing to do with the actual phone hardware which is a good thing. I went back to an older 2.0 launcher that is MUCH MUCH faster with continuous scroll.
I will switch if continuous scroll is added to launcher2, but yeah that choppiness stinks
It's a bug the iPhone had its bugs too. One of the great things about rooting your phone is not having to wait for Google to fix bugs the devs here do it nice and quick. I waited a month then rooted my phone and I am happy I did.
Prod1702 said:
I waited a month then rooted my phone and I am happy I did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does the extra 256 of ram make a noticeable difference in the overall speed and experience of the device (you should know having gone a month with stock on it)?
I didn't know CM rom unlocked the RAM you are talking about. I thought we were still waiting on an update from google for that.
jz9833 said:
I didn't know CM rom unlocked the RAM you are talking about. I thought we were still waiting on an update from google for that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is this true?
CM mode unlocks a good upgrade portion of the ram, for example with 10 apps Open I used to have 60 or less MBS left of ram, after CM upgrade with Kspec theme, i have 10 similar apps open and have 200+mbs of ram left, dont believe me? I actually made a video while still pretty shocked, check it, might as well rate and sub. I think I had 230+mbs while 10-12 apps running
www.youtube.com/user/exclusivegslick = my only video.
Ok to answer a few of your questions:
Does CyanMod include more ram? YES. This bump up in ram is included in the Kernel, and all of the newest roms have this including the undervolted/overclocked kernel's as well.
You get about 400mbs after the free up.
The Three Files:
Google had to go after Cyanogen so he HAD to seperate "google apps addon" from his mod. OTHER ROMS will include Google apps in most cases. So CYanogenmod = 2 files.
Ok here is a quick summary that will hopefully help the other guides make more sense. USE THE OTHER GUIDES STILL this is a conceptual map.
1) Install Android SDK to your COMPUTER which gives you ADB and the windows drivers. The drivers can also be downloaded via another thread. Search drivers/sdk drivers/adb drivers etc..
2) Download/install Fastboot to your COMPUTER
3) Download Amon Ra Recovery 1.6.3 to your Fastboot FOLDER on computer
4) Download CyanogenMOD 5.0.4.1 to the ROOT(VERY TOP LVL) directory of your SD CARD.
5) In same post, Download Google APPS 36ERE thing to ROOT of your SD CARD.
*This gives you all of the proper stuff. Make sure you get ADB SDK drivers loaded I stumbled here and wasted a couple of hours*
6) Unlock bootloader via fastboot. This is a command given from your Computer in DOS prompt in the folder you created with fastboot stuff. Your phone is connected and you are in the BOOTLoader. READ the guides for exact directions or the androidandme video, or countless other things.
7) Install Amon Ra's Recovery while still in FASTBOOT from a command via your computer. Follow guides or even first post on Amon Ra's Thread.
8) Now that you are unlocked. Go into RECOVERY which is done via the bootloader. Guide will give exact direction.
9) **** MAKE A NANDROID BACKUP **** just get in the habit. It is your FAIL SAFE. This in theory makes a nandroid backup of your "stock but unlocked" setup. I always "RE" nandroid backup before making changes or when I "Like" my setup. Command is in recovery.
10) WIPE data via recovery command.
11) FLASH from ZIP - pick Cyanogenmod5.0.4.1 (file you dl'ed to your sd card)
12) Flash from ZIP - GAPPS(googleapps) (file you dl'ed to your sd card)
REBOOT the phone. VOILA. Your done.
Important notes. If you decide, IFFFF, to update the radio. NEVER EVER EVER EVER pull the battery. MD5CheckSUM the radio download. and Repeat NEVER EVER EVER EVER pull the battery until the radio is entirely installed. It can take awhile. This is how you BRICK your phone.
Anyways. that is a real high lvl overview but maybe puts things in perspective easier.
btw you actually have less than half of the total RAM & ROM usable on a stock n1.
I would love to post a cyanogen guide...but haven't rooted yet. I believe he has a wiki with steps too.
britoso said:
btw you actually have less than half of the total RAM & ROM usable on a stock n1.
I would love to post a cyanogen guide...but haven't rooted yet. I believe he has a wiki with steps too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. I'm temped every day to root and unlock the benefits, but I don't know if it's worth voiding my warranty :\
I know what you mean with the "this is not for beginners", it was annoying because, even cyanogen had to unlock his first android phone some time. I followed that guide anyway, after doing as much research as possible. It didnt work though, i could not go straight from unlocking the bootloader to installing amon_ra's recovery, i had to install superboot first. I was hoping for a 30 minute root job, but it ended up taking about 4 hours all up.
I think the stock android kernel is .29 Which only recognises 256mb ram, cyanogen's mod is on the .32 then the .33 kernel which is a highmem kernel, by flashing cyanogenmod you are automatically unlocking the extra ram, no other work is required.
Also, i would suggest sticking with the ERE27 radio, i personally have no problems with reception with it, also if you don't flash the radio, your chances of bricking your phone are very very very low. If you want to do the radio, you can flash it later, when you are more experienced.
seanowns said:
The Three Files:
Google had to go after Cyanogen so he HAD to seperate "google apps addon" from his mod. OTHER ROMS will include Google apps in most cases. So CYanogenmod = 2 files.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I downloaded the Android SDK
2) Download/install Fastboot to your COMPUTER
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where is fastboot?
Do I have to do this? : (from Cyanogen's Wiki)
Instructions from Android Developers and ADB, Fastboot, and Nandroid for Noob
Download the latest Android SDK.
Unzip to C:\AndroidSDK
Right-click on (My) Computer, and select Properties
Go to Advanced settings
XP: Click the Advanced tab
Vista/7: Click Advanced system settings on the left
Click the Environment Variables button
double-click on Path (under System Variables)
Add the full path to the tools/ directory:
C:\AndroidSDK\tools\
(make sure a semicolon ( separates this new path from all the others) Latest windows version appears to need: "C:\AndroidSDK\android-sdk-windows\tools", install location may have changed. (sorry I don't know how to format this correctly!)
Run C:\AndroidSDK\SDK Setup.exe
If it gives you an error go to settings and click on "Force http//....."
Unselect all options except for the USB driver
If you can't get the setup to work, download the USB-DRIVERS folder - HERE (Windows XP/Vista/Windows 7)
On your phone, click Settings > Applications > Development and make sure USB Debugging is on.
Plug your phone into your computer via USB cable (it needs to be on). It should say installing drivers if using Windows.
After it installs the drivers, goto the Start menu and type cmd into the search bar (Vista or higher) or click Run then type in cmd (XP) to open the command prompt.
Type the following into the command prompt window:adb devices
You should see a serial number pop up, it’s the serial number of your phone. This means you are all set. If you do NOT see a serial number, then we need to reinstall the drivers.
Download USBDeview
While the phone is still plugged in, open USBDeview and sort by manufacturer. Find all the HTC/Android drivers and uninstall them all. (Windows Vista requires program to be run as an administrator, otherwise files won't uninstall.)
Once all have been uninstalled, unplug the phone from the USB cable and plug it back in.
The correct drivers should reinstall automatically (check the drivers as they are installing, one should say ADB Device driver).
To check, go to Devices in your Start menu then click on the “Android Phone”. Click on the Hardware tab, and check the list of drivers for ADB Interface under Type.
Done! Now you can use ADB to alter your phone from your computer.
I have Amon RA Recovery Image.
4) Download CyanogenMOD 5.0.4.1 to the ROOT(VERY TOP LVL) directory of your SD CARD.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please go to the Cyanogen Page and tell me where that is. The only link that states CyanogenMOD 5.0.4.1 will lead to another tab opening with the exact same page as the one you just left. Check for yourself: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=623496
5) In same post, Download Google APPS 36ERE thing to ROOT of your SD CARD.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is this the file underneath the CyanogenMOD that is named Google ION? It does the exact same thing that the CyanogenMOD file does when you click it. Re-opens that same page in another browser.
I have no problem following the instructions once there is a clear link to the files one actually needs to complete this process. I'm not trying to be difficult, the ability to root to Cyanogen on xda developers is, right now, broken.
whodatfever said:
I downloaded the Android SDK
Where is fastboot?
Do I have to do this? : (from Cyanogen's Wiki)
Instructions from Android Developers and ADB, Fastboot, and Nandroid for Noob
Download the latest Android SDK.
Unzip to C:\AndroidSDK
Right-click on (My) Computer, and select Properties
Go to Advanced settings
XP: Click the Advanced tab
Vista/7: Click Advanced system settings on the left
Click the Environment Variables button
double-click on Path (under System Variables)
Add the full path to the tools/ directory:
C:\AndroidSDK\tools\
(make sure a semicolon ( separates this new path from all the others) Latest windows version appears to need: "C:\AndroidSDK\android-sdk-windows\tools", install location may have changed. (sorry I don't know how to format this correctly!)
Run C:\AndroidSDK\SDK Setup.exe
If it gives you an error go to settings and click on "Force http//....."
Unselect all options except for the USB driver
If you can't get the setup to work, download the USB-DRIVERS folder - HERE (Windows XP/Vista/Windows 7)
On your phone, click Settings > Applications > Development and make sure USB Debugging is on.
Plug your phone into your computer via USB cable (it needs to be on). It should say installing drivers if using Windows.
After it installs the drivers, goto the Start menu and type cmd into the search bar (Vista or higher) or click Run then type in cmd (XP) to open the command prompt.
Type the following into the command prompt window:adb devices
You should see a serial number pop up, it’s the serial number of your phone. This means you are all set. If you do NOT see a serial number, then we need to reinstall the drivers.
Download USBDeview
While the phone is still plugged in, open USBDeview and sort by manufacturer. Find all the HTC/Android drivers and uninstall them all. (Windows Vista requires program to be run as an administrator, otherwise files won't uninstall.)
Once all have been uninstalled, unplug the phone from the USB cable and plug it back in.
The correct drivers should reinstall automatically (check the drivers as they are installing, one should say ADB Device driver).
To check, go to Devices in your Start menu then click on the “Android Phone”. Click on the Hardware tab, and check the list of drivers for ADB Interface under Type.
Done! Now you can use ADB to alter your phone from your computer.
I have Amon RA Recovery Image.
Please go to the Cyanogen Page and tell me where that is. The only link that states CyanogenMOD 5.0.4.1 will lead to another tab opening with the exact same page as the one you just left. Check for yourself: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=623496
Is this the file underneath the CyanogenMOD that is named Google ION? It does the exact same thing that the CyanogenMOD file does when you click it. Re-opens that same page in another browser.
I have no problem following the instructions once there is a clear link to the files one actually needs to complete this process. I'm not trying to be difficult, the ability to root to Cyanogen on xda developers is, right now, broken.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cyanogen has moved the download to the CyanogenMod web page.
If you have sdk, and fastboot, on you machine and you have already put on amon-ra recovery, then you should be set to go.
Go to Cyanogen Mod.com and click the link to download the latest stable release. If you are in the US. I recommend that you get the new ERE36B radio. You should flash it as well. Just read up on flashing radios and plug in your phone, dont pull the battery during the radio flash and always md5sum a radio image no matter what. The radio is the only area where flashing has the potential to be dangerous.
Good luck and welcome to the Cyanogen World, you will never go back!
Gr8gorilla said:
Cyanogen has moved the download to the CyanogenMod web page.
If you have sdk, and fastboot, on you machine and you have already put on amon-ra recovery, then you should be set to go.
Go to Cyanogen Mod.com and click the link to download the latest stable release. If you are in the US. I recommend that you get the new ERE36B radio. You should flash it as well. Just read up on flashing radios and plug in your phone, dont pull the battery during the radio flash and always md5sum a radio image no matter what. The radio is the only area where flashing has the potential to be dangerous.
Good luck and welcome to the Cyanogen World, you will never go back!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is the difference between the Cyanogen's N1 Addon which I am getting from this tutorial:
http://androidandme.com/2010/01/hacks/video-how-to-unlock-and-root-a-nexus-one/
and the ROMS available on this page (and which one do I download. There's a dozen!)
http://www.cyanogenmod.com/downloads/rom
Where do I download the radio and why is ERE36B better in the USA? A poster above said I should stay with the one I have (27).
addon - vs mod
whodatfever said:
What is the difference between the Cyanogen's N1 Addon which I am getting from this tutorial:
http://androidandme.com/2010/01/hacks/video-how-to-unlock-and-root-a-nexus-one/
and the ROMS available on this page (and which one do I download. There's a dozen!)
http://www.cyanogenmod.com/downloads/rom
Where do I download the radio and why is ERE36B better in the USA? A poster above said I should stay with the one I have (27).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The add-on was what Cyanogen made before google released the source code for android 2.1. It is not a full custom rom.
The ROM's ie. 5.0.4.1 is all the Cyanogen tweaks, highmem etc. 360 degree rotation (left right and upside down if you enable it) and all sorts of stuff.
You really should try both radios and see which one works better for you. Some people have better results with one and some the other. I have the best continuous 3G/HSPDA signal with the ERE36B radio.
On Cyanogen mod forum, go to nexus one and there is a link to get the latest stable ROM 5.0.4.1 that is what you want. You have to also download the Google add-on.
Cyan used to include them but got a nice letter from google telling him he was not allowed to "optimize" their stuff. So he puts it in a separate package as is, and you have to flash it after you flash his rom to get the google apps.
Google apps will be called: gapps-passionERE36B(2) or something very similar.
I am willing to answer any questions you have just send me a pm.
andythefan said:
Same here. I'm temped every day to root and unlock the benefits, but I don't know if it's worth voiding my warranty :\
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there is a thread here about your warranty and as long as you have a problem that is a legit hardware defect HTC has been replacing them, dust under screen bad battery, and a few other things.
GR8Gorilla. Thank you for all of this. It was a convoluted mess trying to decipher some of the tutorials. I am very grateful and am starting the process in a few minutes. I'll let you know how it goes and thank you again.
whodatfever said:
GR8Gorilla. Thank you for all of this. It was a convoluted mess trying to decipher some of the tutorials. I am very grateful and am starting the process in a few minutes. I'll let you know how it goes and thank you again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Remember if and when you flash the radio, plug in phone, and whatever you do, do not pull the battery while it is doing the radio. That is the biggest NO NO. It can make a nice nexus One paperweight. As long as you dont pull the battery you will be fine. I have flashed mine about 4 or 5 times....and I have flashed roms about 1000 times.
The phone is going to reboot a couple of times during a radio flash, be patient.
Hi all,
I have a few small concerns about "[IMPORTANT][GUIDE] What to do after you have bought your Galaxy S3 4G GT-I9305?" - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1967124
I've now rooted my phone and done almost everything exactly as instructed (I also fell into the boot-recovery.p in system folder-trap, but got up again). I finished doing steps 1-5 including Nandroid backup from CWM recovery. Am now back at step 6: "Remember where you left off in 2nd step above? Well now you can go back and complete the partition backup of the efs folders. You should be left with 4 backup files for this final section of the backup process". This I don't fully understand.... I understand that I need to go back to this page: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=33048706&postcount=1
And what I previously did at step 2 is the 3 headlines shown below with *....*. What I didn't do at step 2 is (---*....*---) below:
-------------------------------------
*Setting up QPST with your PC:*
*Backing Up IMEI / NV Data:*
(---*Restoring IMEI / NV Data:*---)
*Restore USB Settings after Backup / Restore:*
(---*Recovering IMEI And Data Connection After Flashing WRONG Root Package Intended For I9300:*---)
-------------------------------------
I don't really see any headlines regarding "partition backup of the efs folders"? But in the top it says: "Click HERE for information on the long awaited and all new EFS Professional v2.0 including download! Now supporting Qualcomm devices!". I downloaded this program, ran it but am a bit confused about all these settings and options in these programs. I'm also confused because I think that the "[IMPORTANT][GUIDE] What to do after you have bought your Galaxy S3 4G GT-I9305?" is a bit unclear here. I think it's unclear how I exactly get these 4 backup files aka "partition backup of the efs folders". I've tried to search the forum for instructions and it seems like I can do:
1) Download ktool app to phone - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1314719
2a) Install terminal emulator and issue the command: "dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p3 of=/storage/extSdCard/efs.img bs=4096" - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2269318
2b) Similar method, I think - with busybox and a few other commands: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1089039
3) Just copy/paste the /efs folder - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2369049
4) Use efs backup windows program - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1673059
Question 1: Are there other methods?
Question 2: Are any of these methods better or worser than the other methods? Consider the worst-possible cases, i.e. a some time the phone gets bricked. I suppose using a phone app for trying to restore /efs isn't a good strategy if you cannot even boot the phone?
Question 3: Do all backup /efs-folder applications do the same thing, only copy /efs so I don't need to use "multiple strategies" / "multiple methods"?
Question 4: Do you recommend something, e.g. using multiple of the methods above ("multiple strategies")?
I just would like to ask, because I think the "[IMPORTANT][GUIDE] What to do after you have bought your Galaxy S3 4G GT-I9305" is a bit unclear here and right now I don't really know what exactly to do. I think I'll go for method 3 above if all methods are equally appropriate...? I've never tried to restore /efs and hope I'll never have to do it...
If you have an i9305, you're in the wrong section. This is the i9300 Q&A within the i9300/i9305 section. The i9305 has it's own Q&A given that it has a different hardware specification.
If you have an i9305, please use the /!\ report button top right of your post to report the thread be moved by a moderator.
If you have the i9300, please clarify this in post 1 and remove the link to teh i9305 thread as yuou shouldn't use guides / info about other devices as you could end up bricking your device.
rootSU said:
If you have an i9305, you're in the wrong section. This is the i9300 Q&A within the i9300/i9305 section. The i9305 has it's own Q&A given that it has a different hardware specification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much - thread is now moved! I hope someone can still explain something to me about the 4 questions.
deleted
JJEgan said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1946915
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I already linked to this page - this page is what my 4 questions are about. What are you trying to say with the same link to the same page I already linked to? I mean: We're only talking about EFS backup, ok? I also wrote that I did all the steps except doing the EFS backup - did you read that? At least I don't understand your answer, because I don't think your reply answers any of the 4 questions about EFS backup.
I give up .
newsboost said:
...
2a) Install terminal emulator and issue the command: "dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p3 of=/storage/extSdCard/efs.img bs=4096" - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2269318
2b) Similar method, I think - with busybox and a few other commands: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1089039
...
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Click to collapse
Also a very similar and IMHO simpler method is to use ADB with a very similar command line (it is also much simpler since you will be typing on your computer on presumably a normal keyboard and big screen).
To do that in ADB you need to have USB debugging enabled in your ROM (and very likely you need to be rooted). But even simpler/nicer is to actually use ADB with a smarter recovery (I am using Philz on my i9300) - in those ADB is enabled and you are rooted by default
JJEgan said:
Your questions refer to other phones not I9305.
AT Note
I9003
Samsung Vibrant
GT N7100
I9100.
So i don't have a clue about these other phones EFS backup and pointed you to the I9305 EFS thread as its not the same as others .
I did not realize you had edited your post that was in the I9300 forum.
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I don't understand you. Why do you think my questions are not for the I9305?
I have NOT - I repeat: NOT edited anything in my original post, but as you can see the original post was in the wrong location and it was then moved to the correct location where it is now. I have no idea why you think my questions are not about the I9305 ?
Ok, now I think maybe I can guess what you mean:
The first question I ask is not very clear, agreed. I write: I think it's unclear how I exactly get these 4 backup files aka "partition backup of the efs folders" + "I don't really see any headlines regarding "partition backup of the efs folders"? " - so sorry about that. But my first question is: What do I do now, because the instructions seems unclear?
The next 4 questions are actually also for the I9305. Maybe you think this shouldn't work on the I9305 but AFAICS I would guess all the mentioned methods are valid on the I9305. Maybe you don't know the answer then - that's fair. My problem is that I haven't made my EFS backup yet, because I wanted to hear you guys first. I write that I'm stuck because the instructions are unclear to me and then I searched the forum for alternative methods. Am I supposed to use the "new EFS Professional v2.0" program and is this the recommended method for EFS backup on the I9305?
xclub_101 said:
Also a very similar and IMHO simpler method is to use ADB with a very similar command line (it is also much simpler since you will be typing on your computer on presumably a normal keyboard and big screen).
To do that in ADB you need to have USB debugging enabled in your ROM (and very likely you need to be rooted). But even simpler/nicer is to actually use ADB with a smarter recovery (I am using Philz on my i9300) - in those ADB is enabled and you are rooted by default
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Click to collapse
Ok, so you agree with my theory that all the mentioned methods are equally good and basically no method is better/worser than the others as long as you have a backup on your pc harddisk?
I think you understood the questions correctly - thank you very much for that. This implies that I can use all methods and there's no difference and nothing is "recommended" in favor of other methods, is this correct? I've never bricked my phone, so I'm a bit unsure here...
Thanks.
JJEgan said:
I give up .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, but I don't understand you. You only linked to a page which I already linked to and you didn't write any explanation or anything. I then explain that I already linked to this page - this page is what my 4 questions are about and I'm asking about how to proceed with making the EFS backup, because I think the page is unclear. I ask which tool is recommended. I ask what you are trying to say with the same link to the same page I already linked to?
I also wrote that I did all the steps except doing the EFS backup - did you read that? At least I don't understand your answer, because I don't think your reply answers any of the 4 questions about EFS backup. Then you deleted your link again (which I already posted to in the first place) and you write that you "give up" - sorry, but I don't understand a word of that. I'm very sorry - not trying to be rude or anything, but I don't have a clue about what you tried to say.
Another problem which I forgot to state earlier is that when I run the program "EFS Professional 2.0.68" I get this message:
BusyBox v.1.21.0 is an unstable release!
If you encounter any issues, it's strongly recommended that you downgrade to BusyBox v.1.20.2 before continuing to use EFS Professional.
Please visit (webpage) for more information.
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Click to collapse
This makes me afraid of making the EFS backup using this tool and this is also why I ask these 4 questions, before I actually do the EFS backup... Again: Not trying to be rude - so if I'm a noob, asking noob questions or something. I had the I9000 for 2 years and never really had any problems, forgot how I rooted the phone and how I made EFS backup. Now I get this "busybox"-warning, which I don't like... If I try to backup using this tool I use the "Backup"-tab + under "Backup Options" + "Device Filter" I select "*** All Partitions ***" and then I get:
"readlink: applet not found. Please install a BusyBox binary that contains the required applet. Busybox v1.20.2-Stericson is recommended for compatibility"
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Click to collapse
What now? The program hangs and nothing happens and I have to kill it - this made me post the 4 questions in the top. Sorry that I didn't give these details before now - now you got the whole situation I'm in and the background for my questions...
newsboost said:
Hi all,
I have a few small concerns about "[IMPORTANT][GUIDE] What to do after you have bought your Galaxy S3 4G GT-I9305?" - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1967124
..............
I'm also confused because I think that the "[IMPORTANT][GUIDE] What to do after you have bought your Galaxy S3 4G GT-I9305?" is a bit unclear here. I think it's unclear how I exactly get these 4 backup files aka "partition backup of the efs folders". I've tried to search the forum for instructions and it seems like I can do:
1) Download ktool app to phone - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1314719
2a) Install terminal emulator and issue the command: "dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p3 of=/storage/extSdCard/efs.img bs=4096" - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2269318
2b) Similar method, I think - with busybox and a few other commands: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1089039
3) Just copy/paste the /efs folder - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2369049
4) Use efs backup windows program - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1673059
Question 1: Are there other methods?
Question 2: Are any of these methods better or worser than the other methods? Consider the worst-possible cases, i.e. a some time the phone gets bricked. I suppose using a phone app for trying to restore /efs isn't a good strategy if you cannot even boot the phone?
Question 3: Do all backup /efs-folder applications do the same thing, only copy /efs so I don't need to use "multiple strategies" / "multiple methods"?
Question 4: Do you recommend something, e.g. using multiple of the methods above ("multiple strategies")?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Preliminary answers to unclear instructions (I edited this post and add the busybox question to the EFS-thread where I think it belongs):
Answer 1: xclub_101 proposed ADB and/or Philz? I haven't tried this yet - not sure if I want to try it.
Answer 2: I would like to hear other opinions.
Answer 3: I don't understand it - using the "root explorer"-method provides a backup of /efs around 2-300 KB. I then tried the "Samsung Galaxy S3 ToolKit" - it produces "efs.img" around 20.480 KB + efs.tar: 205 KB. The "terminal emulator-strategy" gives also a 20.480 KB efs.img-file, but not exactly the same size as the one produced by "Samsung Galaxy S3 Toolkit". So I must conclude that not all applications/methods produce the same /efs-backup. This is pretty weird, I think...?
Answer 4: Now I have a backup using 3 different "strategies"/methods. By the way, I found out ktool is only for I9300 - weird in my opinion because the /efs folder is the same on both I9300 and I9305 and both the 20.480 KB files are produced using commands that work on other phones than the I9305 too...
newsboost said:
Ok, so you agree with my theory that all the mentioned methods are equally good and basically no method is better/worser than the others as long as you have a backup on your pc harddisk?
I think you understood the questions correctly - thank you very much for that. This implies that I can use all methods and there's no difference and nothing is "recommended" in favor of other methods, is this correct? I've never bricked my phone, so I'm a bit unsure here...
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All methods are very similar indeed - the only thing that you need to keep in mind is HOW you are going to restore the backup if things really go bad.
The "partition physical image" (with dd or similar) is IMHO simpler under all "normal" circumstances (and it might also hold older deleted files that other methods might not even see) but results in a slightly larger file. The only drawback that I see is if somehow you get bad sectors just in the middle of the memory for that partition - but as far as I know that is not really possible with modern NAND setups that have wear-leveling incorporated in their firmware.
xclub_101 said:
All methods are very similar indeed - the only thing that you need to keep in mind is HOW you are going to restore the backup if things really go bad.
The "partition physical image" (with dd or similar) is IMHO simpler under all "normal" circumstances (and it might also hold older deleted files that other methods might not even see) but results in a slightly larger file. The only drawback that I see is if somehow you get bad sectors just in the middle of the memory for that partition - but as far as I know that is not really possible with modern NAND setups that have wear-leveling incorporated in their firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much - I'm almost satisfied and relaxed now
I'm very happy with the "dd"-method, because it produces a file around 20 MB - the bigger the better, IMHO - better backup too much than too little!
If something happens to my phone, e.g. the /efs-partition gets corrupt, can I always expect that I can boot up the phone, put the backup on my external SD-card and start up a terminal emulator program and then use the "dd"-method to restore /efs? Or should I use the ADB-commands (not exactly sure how to do it). Most important: I have the impression that my two 20 MB backups are fine...
This thread is intended to be your master resource for all the important and "must-read" threads here in the Nexus 5 forum. It contains links to threads we expect you to read before gaining root access/any sort of modification as well as links to guides and other resources to do the things you're looking to do. Feel free to post in this thread to suggest threads be added to this list.
Please do not ask questions or ask for support here; ask in the relevant thread instead.
Current hot topics:
Android M Discussion Thread
[INDEX] Google Nexus 5 - Android M Developer Preview (by @benkxda)
N5 Lollipop Stock Flashables (by @vomer)
[FIX] Unbrick Nexus 5 stucked in Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 mode (by @bitdomo)
/sdcard problems after upgrading Android (by @rootSU)
[Info] Basic overview of root options for Lollipop (by @rootSU)
Section 1a - Pre-root Info:
Before attempting to gain root access, we would expect you to have properly read and understood the following threads. If you do not understand something, try reading it again before asking in the thread or posting in the Q&A section. Some guides are included in this list - because it is always best to read the process from beginning to end before attempting anything. Please do not blindly follow the guides yet; read them for information purposes. This will help you learn some terminology and will help you formulate a better understanding of the way things work.
adb and fastboot. What is it? How can it help you? - basic information about adb and fastboot (by @rootSU)
All you need to know about Android | Read this before you post/root! - Understand the basics before you root (by @abaaaabbbb63)
How to Unlock Bootloader, Install Custom Recovery and Root - Set up ADB, Fastboot before you root (by @Chromium)
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If you were wondering why we prefer for you not to use toolkits/"one click root" methods, try reading this:
The Dangers of Tool Kits and One Click Root Methods + Mini Rant (by @El Daddy)
Section 1b - Pre-root follows:
You'll need to read these threads before proceeding. They'll ensure you have adb and fastboot set up properly on your Windows PC. The first thread should install everything you need (adb., fastboot and drivers) to be able to connect to your Windows PC and subsequently gain root access. After following the first thread, check if it works correctly by booting into the bootloader, connecting via USB, then entering "fastboot devices" into a command prompt window. If your device doesn't show up, then try manually installing the driver in the second thread. If you continue to have driver issues then diagnose your issue with the information in the third thread.
ADB, Fastboot and Drivers - 15 seconds ADB Installer - Recommended quick and easy way to install adb and fastboot (by @Snoop05)
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A collection of root specific guides. Not just guides on how to gain root access, but also guides for other tasks that require it.
[4.4.x][5.x] How to Unlock Bootloader, Install Custom Recovery and Root - The preferred method. Allows you to learn and understand the basics (by @Chromium)
[5.0] Download and Flash Android 5.0 and Reroot & Recovery (by @spc_hicks09)
How to Fix BSOD/No Bootloader (by @wolfirotisha)
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Fix persist partition - No storage, IMEI lost, can't mount persist? (by @bitdomo)
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Section 3 - Guides (Root agnostic):
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Section 4 - info (root specific):
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All-in-one beginners guide (by @xBeerdroiDx)
All color related things! (FAQ, Calibration Guide, Development) (by @yorici)
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tips & tricks with important info to know - Tips and tricks for non-root and root users (by @samersh72)
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Section 6 - Resources
A collection of useful resources.
[MODEM] [EFS] Nexus 5 Flashable Modems and EFS Backup (KTU84M) - upgrade your radio and backup your EFS (by @autoprime)
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Hi
Firstly, thank you in advance for any help you can give me. I'm completely new to this so apologies in advance for my clumsy terminology and probably lack of useful detail - obviously v happy to provide any other details that will help. I do appreciate you are all volunteers - I moved from Windows to Ubuntu a few years ago and really appreciated the community support which made it possible so I am well aware of how dedicated you all are - thank you in advance.
I've an old Moto G6 (Xt1925-5). I thought I'd try rooting it and then installing a custom rom to ensure I can update security etc.
I won't bore you with all the details of why - I don't actually need to succeed but I hate the fact that a functional phone is electronic junk after 2-3 years just because it won't update; so I thought I'd try with my old phone that I don't need to see how easy this is to do (if it is I'll move over to Android for my main phone - I reluctantly currently use an iPhone - for me the selling-your-sole-to-Apple is outweighed by the several years of useability such that I buy my iPhones 2nd hand and still get several years of secure phone use.
I did manage to install twrp, root it and then wiped the original OS in order to flash a new rom. It's OEM unlocked via code from Motorola.
The problem I now face is that whatever I try to flash gives me error 255 in twrp. I've tried many different roms mostly downloaded via links on this site - eg lineage 17 and 18, crDroid v7 (android 11), Pixelexperiance.
twrp is version 3.6.2_9-0. My PC is running Ubuntu 22.04LTS. The phone previously ran Android 9 as an upgrade from the OEM 8.
I'm attempting to do this by (1) downloading the .zip; (2) transferring over to the sd card using adb push via USB from my laptop; (3) install via twrp.
The file seems to go over to the sd card and twrp shows it and tries to install, then I get the error (seems to be 255 every time). I've also tried sending the .zip to /tmp and /sdcard - neither work: error 255 every time. If I check 'zip signature verification' most of the ROMs pass (one or two fail) but still gives error 255 when trying to install.
The text is 'Updating partition details ... done; Formatting Cache using make_ext4fs ... ; Updating partition details ... done; Wiping Cache & Dalvik ... -- Dalvik Cache Directories Wipe Complete!; Updating partition details ... done!; Installing zip file '/sdcard/lineage18...'; Unmounting system ...; Updater process ended with ERROR: 255 Error installing zip file '/sdcard/lijneage-18...'; Updating partition details... ... done
As I get the same error with multiple different OSs I suspect I've made a simple error somewhere but don't know where to start to find it.
As an aside - I don't know if this is normal or completely unrelated - the .zip files I move over seem to disappear from the phone sometimes - often if I reboot, but I can't reliably reproduce the disappearance - wiping cache etc. doesn't remove the files, rebooting sometimes seems to but not every time.
I don't really mind what OS I end up with - happy with any OS that is secure; but I suspect I've missed something really simple to give the the same error with every attempt. As I said at the beginning, this is mostly an experiment (and would be nice to have a backup phone!) so the actual OS I end up with is much less important than whether I can do it or not.
Any help greatly appreciated - thank you!
doctorwill said:
Any help greatly appreciated - thank you!
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Hello and good morning, @doctorwill
Welcome to XDA! I hope you'll always find and get the support you require.
However. prior to your next posting please read the guidances that are stuck on top of every forum like
Note: Questions go in Q&A Forum
If you are posting a Question Thread post it in the Q&A forum. Technical discussion of Android development and hacking. No noobs, please. Device-specific releases should go under the appropriate device forum...
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and the others. I've moved the thread to
Moto G6 Questions & Answers
Ask your questions about the Moto G6 and get answers from the community! Please be as specific as possible when posting.
forum.xda-developers.com
Thanks for your cooperation!
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