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what up yall! My ATT tilt died a few weeks ago (flex cable went bad, decided it was time to move on) so i got a G1 from my buddy that had a broken digitizer and LCD. ordered the parts online and got it put back together today. few questions though.... it seems that about the bottom 1/4 inch of my touch screen dosent respond....its brand new and the rest of it works fin...just the small strip that seems to not work. any ideas? also t mobile are assholes...i cant get them to unlock it but i will work on that one...im quite sure that answer is on here. Also...do i really need to get a data package or can i choose to keep my phone from constantly connecting and updating my gmail and other apps? thats the reason i continue to get HTC is because i think data plans are silly when everywhere in america has WiFI....i think thats all for now...and ive been a member on here for quite sometime but this android mess is totally different. lol. thank yall!
That 1/4" at the bottoms sounds like a bad digitizer. =/ *Most* likely not software. But you can check by flashing a new ROM and if its a software problem, the new ROM will override whatever was causing it not to work before.
You can get it unlocked for $20 from one of many unlocking websites, just google it. You can't get it free anywhere other than T-Mobile sorry to say.
You don't *need* a data package, I don't have one. There are applications that can disable your data connection except for when you need it (i.e. MMS). Or its a built-in widget with the Hero ROMs.
Unless you have a rooted ROM, you will be required to use your data to even use your phone for the first time as it requires you to sign in to your Google account, but doesn't give you the option to use WiFi. But honestly, I think this phone is crippled without a data connection even if you don't use it all the time, I'm currently waiting for my current plan to end to sign another 2-year contract with data. But its up to you, its certainly still usable with enough WiFi connection points.
darn....its not very fun to take apart...plus i have to wait even longer...im currently using an old school , non color green screen nokia probably digitizer and not some random flex cable along the lines? maybe the black one? i guess there wouldnt be any way to check without replacing. and im not real addicted to any apps or anything, just mainly want it as phone/organizer. im a studennt and have wi fi at the house and at school, and every bar i go to has wi fi so i think im covered =) just making sure i could regulate it so it dosent pull and jack my bill up. if i were to flash a new rom, wouldnt that unlock it....and can you still downgrade it to rc29 when you dont have a t mobile sim card....or rather is there any other way besides adp or should i just go ahead and learn how to use it...seems a bit intimidating to anything ive done on a WMo phone.
you can use apndroid to block data from being used accidentally
flashing a rom will not unlock the phone.
Yes you can downgrade to RC29 without a tmo card
mmmk. so rooting and flashing a HTC rom wouldnt do it? if im correct i either have to go through t-mobile or i have to pay like 20 bucks so i can use it with ATT?
ztch10 said:
mmmk. so rooting and flashing a HTC rom wouldnt do it? if im correct i either have to go through t-mobile or i have to pay like 20 bucks so i can use it with ATT?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct.
h.nocturna said:
Unless you have a rooted ROM, you will be required to use your data to even use your phone for the first time as it requires you to sign in to your Google account, but doesn't give you the option to use WiFi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't tried it myself, but this thread tells you how to get around that.
note how that thread tells you to obtain root...
B-man007 said:
note how that thread tells you to obtain root...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I meant get around not having a Data connection. Rooting is obviously not optional.
Chahk said:
I meant get around not having a Data connection. Rooting is obviously not optional.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ah ok i figured he already found that or would.
sorry
You can root without data. Just activate wifi at RC29 when trying to sign in
Chahk said:
I meant get around not having a Data connection. Rooting is obviously not optional.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooted ROMs usually have an option to just skip signing into Google don't they? I know they have that for Hero for sure, but I was pretty sure they implemented that to all the cupcake/Donut ROMs too no?
Basically, you'll only need to use that with RC29. And if you do need to sign in and don't wanna use the work around, I would just go ahead and use the data, its only a few KB of info I think (I've never actually measured it, but I very small amounts on my bill even if I do use it to sign in, also using ATT btw).
h.nocturna said:
Rooted ROMs usually have an option to just skip signing into Google don't they? I know they have that for Hero for sure, but I was pretty sure they implemented that to all the cupcake/Donut ROMs too no?
Basically, you'll only need to use that with RC29. And if you do need to sign in and don't wanna use the work around, I would just go ahead and use the data, its only a few KB of info I think (I've never actually measured it, but I very small amounts on my bill even if I do use it to sign in, also using ATT btw).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
all ROM's based on adp (and most modded tmo) have the option to skip (at least im pretty sure)
He just wants to activate his phone without data, which would require him to get down to a root level rom (RC29)
after he logs in, he has the option to root or wait for the OTA update if he wants to stay stock
if he wants to try to use his data, he can try but it doesnt always work (it did for me at first, but not the next few times)
ok so update... believe it was a bad digitizer...sending it back monday for a replacement so a few more days without the new toy) I got it registered to my Gmail and everything, and im currently waiting on my unlock code, so that is squared away. now...new questions.....
1. can i not just uncheck the auto sync and all the other data options or do i have to run adp? to make sure it dosent stay connecting and updating my mail and apps?
2. what positives do i have with rooting/flashing? obviously most of you probably have gone that route, and i really enjoyed flashing with my Tilt and having the newest WinMo, but it was always at the cost of it either being buggy or somethings not working. i know this can be searched but i want the simple answer if yall dont mind
3. i also noticed that the only thing so far that dosent work, is the camera/camcorder. keep in mind i got this phone with a broken lcd/digi. so there may have been other problems but i couldnt tell untill the screen was replaced. could it be i put it back together and missed a cable/contact for the camera, or could it just be software related?
...for now i think thats all the problems i have stumbled across... Thanks you all you are making this very easy for a Android Newbie!
ztch10 said:
ok so update... believe it was a bad digitizer...sending it back monday for a replacement so a few more days without the new toy) I got it registered to my Gmail and everything, and im currently waiting on my unlock code, so that is squared away. now...new questions.....
1. can i not just uncheck the auto sync and all the other data options or do i have to run adp? to make sure it dosent stay connecting and updating my mail and apps?
2. what positives do i have with rooting/flashing? obviously most of you probably have gone that route, and i really enjoyed flashing with my Tilt and having the newest WinMo, but it was always at the cost of it either being buggy or somethings not working. i know this can be searched but i want the simple answer if yall dont mind
3. i also noticed that the only thing so far that dosent work, is the camera/camcorder. keep in mind i got this phone with a broken lcd/digi. so there may have been other problems but i couldnt tell untill the screen was replaced. could it be i put it back together and missed a cable/contact for the camera, or could it just be software related?
...for now i think thats all the problems i have stumbled across... Thanks you all you are making this very easy for a Android Newbie!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. That would stop just contacts, calendar, and gmail not all of the other apps that come with the phone
2. Rooting is definitely worth it, loving my hero rom
3. If your on RC29 there is no camcorder, but if not then it's definitely a hardware issue, when I was on stock everything worked fine
Just FYI: the unlock code is phone specific, so if your getting a replacement, the unlock code wont work on that one if the code you got was for the other.
1) If you want to disable data, download and run APNDroid. You can turn off autosync if you want but data will still be used.
2) Rooting has lots of advantages. Themes, faster updates (i.e youll get the latest android before its released OTA) more modifications, use of certain apps such as Ad-Free, etc. cooked android roms are more stable than winmo cooked roms, and you have the option between stable/experimental
3) if it was stock, its probably a hardware error
so could i potenitally not have any apps and not have a data pull problem? or it seems as though just rooting and flashing to hero (would you all go hero, or newer 1.6 stock rom, or custom 1.6?) and ill be taking it back apart to send the bad digitzer back, so ill check the ol camera out. still is stock T-mobile 1.5....no rc29 or anything....yet...
if you still have 1.5, you can use the 1 click root
im using hero right now, but i switch between hero and cyan using the switchrom script
the g1 on stock android will still use data even if you have everything disabled. the only way to completely disable it is by changing the apns, or by disabling mobile data on a hero rom
what was wrong with the camera? give a little more detail so we know if it really is a hardware or software problem
Quiccest way to get unlock code..just tellem you are goin to the uk or sum and you are in need of unlocking since u will be on there network for a while.. Usually that works!
Just bought a galaxy tab (tmobile version). Popped in my SIM from my HD7 and it worked for internet flawlessly over 3G connection. Double checked - WIFI was disabled Then I called tmobile and they said I see you have a galaxy tab. I said no I have HD7...I had put the sim back in HD7.
Bad news is now when I put the sim in the TAB I get redirect to tmobile homepage everytime. Did I screw myself by calling tmobile? Anyway to get my unlimitd data HD7 sim to work in my galaxy tab without flashing firmware?
Change your IMEI. Here's the process I followed (i think-- might need to do a bit of searching to be sure)
Make sure your tab is rooted.
DL Root explorer.
mount R/W
BACKUP your efs folder and put it somewhere safe (this is all your IMEI info if I'm not mistaken)
delete the CONTENTS of your efs folder
mount r/o.
restart.
Of course this is illegal depending on where you live, it makes your tab show up as a generic GSM phone.
Translate IMEI Change Instructions
Could you please explain further. For example, I am unsure what MOUNT R/W means etc. Please define abbreviations. Your effort will be appreciated.
Lawsewt said:
For example, I am unsure what MOUNT R/W means etc. Please define abbreviations.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These are modes you put the file explorer into. Mount R/W means you can change the files/folders of your sd card. It means read/write. R/O means read only.
What about Samsung Vibrant?
Just wandering if the same process will work with Samsung Vibrant so it can be used with old web unlimited plan.
Anybody tried it?
huynhct said:
Change your IMEI. Here's the process I followed (i think-- might need to do a bit of searching to be sure)
Make sure your tab is rooted.
DL Root explorer.
mount R/W
BACKUP your efs folder and put it somewhere safe (this is all your IMEI info if I'm not mistaken)
delete the CONTENTS of your efs folder
mount r/o.
restart.
Of course this is illegal depending on where you live, it makes your tab show up as a generic GSM phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A warning, this thread will be deleted by the moderators due to forum rules violation regarding imei changes. It has happened once before, just wanted to give you a heads up.
And this tip does actually work.
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App
I tried this trick but soon I realize the reception goes way worse, so I reverted back.
mingkee said:
I tried this trick but soon I realize the reception goes way worse, so I reverted back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very interesting. It shouldn't affect the radio. Any possibility there was a location or weather issue when you tried the trick?
Most likely you are surfing under edge. Switch to a 3G modem should solve the problem
mingkee said:
I tried this trick but soon I realize the reception goes way worse, so I reverted back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my GT-P1000 using Tapatalk
rangercaptain said:
Very interesting. It shouldn't affect the radio. Any possibility there was a location or weather issue when you tried the trick?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's under exactly same location and 3g only mode, and I had MT4 along with it. I found the 3g signal is
about 10 dB less than MT4 when used the trick when the level is about the same if I revert it back. I think there's something can be done with nv_data files.
There are many 3g modems to try. Any vibrant 2.2 modem will work. Just flash the modem.bin in the phone place in Odin 1.7. You will have to verify your apn and wireless network settings after you flash. Try until you get one that works best for you.
The Vibrant modems are in that phone's development forum in a single thread.
I have successfully flashed a new kernel as well as a new rom (MoDaCo kernal with Overcome rom) in an attempt to turn my tab into a permanent phone on the TMOUSA network. (I'm fine with 2g + voice w/wifi at the moment)
I get the typical redirect (to tmobile) when using the 2g + Voice switch and have attempted to take the steps listed in this post to allow access. However, when I remove the contents of the efs folder and reboot the device, it still redirects.
Looking through the explorer I realize that the efs folder has repopulated, but the imei folder is empty. This doesn't seem abnormal, but without an imei within the folder, how am I still getting the redirect? Is it the kernel or the rom?
I've tried searching for other posts containing this problem, but don't come across any others that are helpful, mainly just "OMG *insert flaming here* I've seen this 100 times check the search option"
btyork said:
I have successfully flashed a new kernel as well as a new rom (MoDaCo kernal with Overcome rom) in an attempt to turn my tab into a permanent phone on the TMOUSA network. (I'm fine with 2g + voice w/wifi at the moment)
I get the typical redirect (to tmobile) when using the 2g + Voice switch and have attempted to take the steps listed in this post to allow access. However, when I remove the contents of the efs folder and reboot the device, it still redirects.
Looking through the explorer I realize that the efs folder has repopulated, but the imei folder is empty. This doesn't seem abnormal, but without an imei within the folder, how am I still getting the redirect? Is it the kernel or the rom?
I've tried searching for other posts containing this problem, but don't come across any others that are helpful, mainly just "OMG *insert flaming here* I've seen this 100 times check the search option"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't have a problem when i did the step when it first came out before the original thread was deleted. It is very strange that it is not working for you.Dumb question but does your SIM have voice+data on it? I am currently using my Vibrant SIM, just wondering.
Actually, I got it to work finally after switching the modem back to 3g than 2g. Seems ok now.
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App
You always have to check your wireless network settings when you set this up. You know, apn, mode, etc.
If I try this trick and it fails, can I go back to the original settings? I am such a coward when it comes to this stuff. I actually don't "NEED" the voice activated. I just WANT IT because it is there .. know what I mean ? Sort of like voice on my HTC Shift - I don't think I have EVER used it .. Maybe I will just leave it .. I have the Streak 7 also.
i tried the trick and works perfectly, thanks for sharing it, i was gonna try this trick on my G2 but i sold it to buy the tab, i'm happy with what i have now.
atomiq said:
i tried the trick and works perfectly, thanks for sharing it, i was gonna try this trick on my G2 but i sold it to buy the tab, i'm happy with what i have now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you noticed a weaker 3G reception?
I've tried this on my Samsung Vibrant and it seems to have worse 3G reception
(can only get reliable 3G outside of a building structure)
Why in the world would you do this to any other device besides the t-mobile galaxy tab? What did you hope to change?
This is only intended for US t-mobile galaxy tab users who get redirected to at-mobile website instead of having complete access to browsing.
so i should be able to do this on my gsm international galaxy tab? i get redirected when trying to use a data connection via my g2 sim card.
Hey everyone, I just recently got a Samsung Captivate with Rogers, which is the i896.
I've been hearing a lot about rooting lately and i'm starting to understand a little more about what it is exactly. I'm interested in the idea that it can help speed up the phone and allow for more apps, but I have a few questions.
1) Where can I find the most recent way to root a ROGERS Captivate? I was reading around and read that the "One click fix" does not work anymore
2) Will rooting my phone change the interface of the phone?
3) If something goes wrong and my phone doesn't root, can I go back to the default settings easily?
I might have more questions later on but thats it for now. I'd just also like to hear your opinions on rooting and what exactly YOU have been able to do with your phone by rooting.
Thanks!
welcome ill answer your qs first then ill give you some links to help you out
A)rooting and flashing roms (2 diff things) are easiest done from STOCK 2.1 (which you should have) if you plan on flashing custom roms DONT do the rogers/samsung keis firmware update. it changes the recovery to 3e. (ink below if needed)
B) rooting does not change the interface. ROMS DO
C) if you cant successfully root, nothing has changed. you should be able to tho. and you can UNROOT, and wipe to factory too. for warranty repairs and they will never know.
OPPINION:
custom roms are the way to go, more current, full featured complete and on time, cutomizable, fun, and brain-power using than stock roms.
MY ADVICE: DO IT but TAKE YOUR TIME AND READ. I READ FOR 3 or 4 days before i touched a thing!! and still had very minor issues and things that had to be ironed out. dont let that scare you. its a learning experience. hopefully with the links i give you you will have less SEARCHING TO DO. but you my freind, are in the right fourm and right section, too! i have a good feeling about you already!
YOU CAN DO IT WATERBOY!!!
LINKS!!!!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=858765 start here.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/index.php?title=Samsung_Galaxy_S/SGH-I896 i896 specific crap but see i897 page too, same phone same guts (see rooting, hell read the whole thing)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/index.php?title=Samsung_Galaxy_S/SGH-I897 i897 wiki
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=872455
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=905042
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=909213 (3e recovery if you run into that)
oh and it took me forever to learn that there is an ODIN one-click, and an Odin3 1.7, both flashing programs but DIFFERENT, we can use ODIN one-click but not recomended it flashes AT&T stock back. ALSO not to be confused with one-click ROOT,,,
Typically its best to read around but you can use the following for rooting and unrooting
It doesn't change the interface
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=803682
I used it, no issues and now with a new ROM as well - you will stumble on many thing but this site has everything but u need to read a bit
Hey there, the rogers captivate is the same as the at&t captivate. I found a rogers phone in the snow, wiped, rooted and unlocked it. Installed at&t firmware and then flashed serendipity. I'm using it on telus no problem. Everything in this captivate forum will work great.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
First of all, thank you guys so much for giving me real replies instead of a bunch of "Go read for yourself" or "try the search button" lol... I've been doing some reading but I needed to ask a few direct questions.
@Trusselo, i'm not too ignorant to computers. I know my way around a computer and used to do some web design and basic coding so i'm somewhat okay.
My only concern is that once i've rooted my phone, I have to use some sort of unix/linux commands to work around my phone and do things? Is this true? Also, I read that the rooted version has a different keyboard? I still have a hard time getting used to this touchscreen board.
SIDE QUESTION ABOUT CAPTIVATE AND WIFI: This is my biggest problem right now, its actually a small problem but it gets annoying. Basically, my WiFi stays connected when i'm at home but sometimes it seems like it slows done or the connection lags or even stops working. I can usually tell if this is happening because pages don't load fast enough in the browser or don't load at all. While this is happening, my wifi connection still says "Connected" though. I always have to go back, disconnect, re-type my password, connect again. Then I go back and it works fine. Is there any way to fix this?
gs1003 said:
First of all, thank you guys so much for giving me real replies instead of a bunch of "Go read for yourself" or "try the search button" lol... I've been doing some reading but I needed to ask a few direct questions.
@Trusselo, i'm not too ignorant to computers. I know my way around a computer and used to do some web design and basic coding so i'm somewhat okay.
My only concern is that once i've rooted my phone, I have to use some sort of unix/linux commands to work around my phone and do things? Is this true? Also, I read that the rooted version has a different keyboard? I still have a hard time getting used to this touchscreen board.
SIDE QUESTION ABOUT CAPTIVATE AND WIFI: This is my biggest problem right now, its actually a small problem but it gets annoying. Basically, my WiFi stays connected when i'm at home but sometimes it seems like it slows done or the connection lags or even stops working. I can usually tell if this is happening because pages don't load fast enough in the browser or don't load at all. While this is happening, my wifi connection still says "Connected" though. I always have to go back, disconnect, re-type my password, connect again. Then I go back and it works fine. Is there any way to fix this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just rooting the phone does not change the interface at all. Rooting just allows you access to the locked system files so you can change them.
Also you won't have to use terminal commands to do hardly anything, but it would be a good practice to learn how to use it.
From there you can change your keyboard if you like. There are a few keyboards out there that are better than the stock keyboard is, as far a functionality.
Be warned once you get onto flashing and modding your phone, its like an addiction, and you probably wont be able to stop.
thatguysteve said:
Hey there, the rogers captivate is the same as the at&t captivate. I found a rogers phone in the snow, wiped, rooted and unlocked it. Installed at&t firmware and then flashed serendipity. I'm using it on telus no problem. Everything in this captivate forum will work great.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try and find the actual owner first?
Keithyv` said:
Did you try and find the actual owner first?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya, but no one called the phone. The screen was locked and I couldn't get into the phone. I think it was outside for a while, reported lost and deactivated.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
gs1003 said:
@Trusselo, i'm not too ignorant to computers. I know my way around a computer and used to do some web design and basic coding so i'm somewhat okay.
My only concern is that once i've rooted my phone, I have to use some sort of unix/linux commands to work around my phone and do things? Is this true? Also, I read that the rooted version has a different keyboard? I still have a hard time getting used to this touchscreen board.
SIDE QUESTION ABOUT CAPTIVATE AND WIFI: This is my biggest problem right now, its actually a small problem but it gets annoying. Basically, my WiFi stays connected when i'm at home but sometimes it seems like it slows done or the connection lags or even stops working. I can usually tell if this is happening because pages don't load fast enough in the browser or don't load at all. While this is happening, my wifi connection still says "Connected" though. I always have to go back, disconnect, re-type my password, connect again. Then I go back and it works fine. Is there any way to fix this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i really hope that you didnt think i was accusing you of not being good with computers or being patronizing, i was just trying to provide you (or anyone else that reads this) with as much info as i could, while not doing the work for you.
terminal commands: ive never had to use them, no adb shell, no terminal emulator on phone, although it wouldnt be outside of my skill, i just prefer to do it without learning something i dont need to. (yet.. still thinking about learning some apping)
keyboard: rooting does not change any part of the UI at all, all rooting does is allow you to access (read / write / copy /delete) protected system files. And you can only do those scary things with use of other root apps after rooting your phone.
wifi: this is why some people flash new modems, if you still have issues and really want to send it back for warranty, dont worry, you can have it back good as new in no time!
Not too sure what you mean by flash new modems... ? And I wasn't accusing you of anything lol. Just letting you know that i'm not 100% dumb when it comes to computer but even then I don't know if I would be ready to use typed commands and stuff to use my phone.
gs1003 said:
Not too sure what you mean by flash new modems... ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The modem is simply what the phone uses for connectivity. It is a separate piece of the firmware that can be flashed on its own. It is a topic that is a little beyond the scope of this post. However, there is a stickied thread in the Captivate development forum called 'the modem thread' that outlines a lot of the information. The main reason many people do this change is that some experience better connectivity, lower battery consumption, and some other benefits. Again modems are beyond the scope of this post, so I encourage you to read that sticky, as there can be some pitfalls to changing modems. Best of luck and enjoy the great phone!
Oh okay thank you. I thought you meant I would have to take my phone back and get a new one. The WiFi works fine, its just that I have to disconnect, enter my wifi password, then reconnect sometimes for it to work properly.
Do you mean that the WiFi is something that can be changed after the phone is rooted to work better?
Can't say for sure, but it's always worth rooting anyway.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
I'm trying to get Straight Talk working with this Bionic. Could someone help?
Not sure but...
I used to be a Verizon Wireless agent (Straight Talk piggy backs on their network.) If I remember right straight talk/net10/verizon's own prepaid phones are limited to 3G devices only. Policies may have changed, or I could potentially be wrong but I am going to guess that you won't be able to get it working on their network because they won't be able to issue you a compatible SIM
You have to edit the build.prop and create a local.prop (it probably doesn't exist). I recently put SlimKat 4.4.4 on my friend's Bionic, and got it working well with Straight Talk (Voice, MMS, Data, etc). Just edit build.prop with:
persist.radio.ap.phonetype=1
ro.mot.phonemode.vzw4gphone=0
ro.mot.phonemode.vzwglobalphone=1
ro.telephony.default_network=3
ro.telephony.gsm-routes-us-smsc=0
telephony.lteOnCdmaDevice=0
Create a local.prop file and add:
ro.telephony.ril.v3=signalstrength
Move this into /data/
Next, go into system/etc/ and get your apns-conf.xml file and delete all the entries you don't need, keeping only the one relevant to Straight Talk. In my friend's case:
Code:
<apns version="7">
<apn carrier="StraightTalk ATT" mcc="310" mnc="410" apn="tfdata" port="80" mmsc="http://mms-tf.net" mmsproxy="mms3.tracfone.com" mmsport="80" type="default,supl,mms,hipri" />
</apns>
For the novices, to do this last part, you'll need a file manager like ES that can utilize root permissions after enabling in settings.
After this, any 4.3 or 4.4 ROM should let you edit APN settings, etc. You may need to set your radio to GSM (auto PRL) by going into your dialer and hitting *#*#4636#*#* and going into Phone Information then down to network type or whatever. I don't have a Motorola phone in front of me If that doesn't work, I've noticed GSM/WCDMA (auto PRL) works for some.
Good luck
Edit: I forgot one crucial thing you must do. You have to use RadioComm to enable GSM/UMTS bands. You can find it with Google. The version I used is 11.12.2. You'll either have a green or purple light on the right side, signifying that your phone is connected. It should show up in the status bar too. Steps:
Ensure you have correct Motorola drivers and that device shows up in device manager (You may need to use Google USB driver, as this has worked with some Motorola phones for me)
Ensure that USB is in PC Tools mode
In Radiocomm go to MA->COMMON->MDM 6x00
Go to the FTM Common1 tab, and wait for purple or green light on side
Toward the top of NVAccess you'll see a select box. Scroll to NV item 1877 NV_RF_BC_CONFIG_I
Click on read value
Once read, replace the first 8 bytes with: 8703E80400000200 (back up original as a .txt file or something)
Write the new value to the device and reboot
There's also a flashable zip that does this, but I've not tested it. Use at your own risk:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1048524&d=1336485537
All of the information I presented is from others, but I can't remember all the threads I got this from. I take no responsibility for any bricked phones or the like.
shadolis said:
You have to edit the build.prop and create a local.prop (it probably doesn't exist). I recently put SlimKat 4.4.4 on my friend's Bionic, and got it working well with Straight Talk (Voice, MMS, Data, etc). Just edit build.prop with:
persist.radio.ap.phonetype=1
ro.mot.phonemode.vzw4gphone=0
ro.mot.phonemode.vzwglobalphone=1
ro.telephony.default_network=3
ro.telephony.gsm-routes-us-smsc=0
telephony.lteOnCdmaDevice=0
Create a local.prop file and add:
ro.telephony.ril.v3=signalstrength
Move this into /data/
Next, go into system/etc/ and get your apns-conf.xml file and delete all the entries you don't need, keeping only the one relevant to Straight Talk. In my friend's case:
Code:
<apns version="7">
<apn carrier="StraightTalk ATT" mcc="310" mnc="410" apn="tfdata" port="80" mmsc="http://mms-tf.net" mmsproxy="mms3.tracfone.com" mmsport="80" type="default,supl,mms,hipri" />
</apns>
For the novices, to do this last part, you'll need a file manager like ES that can utilize root permissions after enabling in settings.
After this, any 4.3 or 4.4 ROM should let you edit APN settings, etc. You may need to set your radio to GSM (auto PRL) by going into your dialer and hitting *#*#4636#*#* and going into Phone Information then down to network type or whatever. I don't have a Motorola phone in front of me If that doesn't work, I've noticed GSM/WCDMA (auto PRL) works for some.
Good luck
Edit: I forgot one crucial thing you must do. You have to use RadioComm to enable GSM/UMTS bands. You can find it with Google. The version I used is 11.12.2. You'll either have a green or purple light on the right side, signifying that your phone is connected. It should show up in the status bar too. Steps:
Ensure you have correct Motorola drivers and that device shows up in device manager (You may need to use Google USB driver, as this has worked with some Motorola phones for me)
Ensure that USB is in PC Tools mode
In Radiocomm go to MA->COMMON->MDM 6x00
Go to the FTM Common1 tab, and wait for purple or green light on side
Toward the top of NVAccess you'll see a select box. Scroll to NV item 1877 NV_RF_BC_CONFIG_I
Click on read value
Once read, replace the first 8 bytes with: 8703E80400000200 (back up original as a .txt file or something)
Write the new value to the device and reboot
There's also a flashable zip that does this, but I've not tested it. Use at your own risk:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1048524&d=1336485537
All of the information I presented is from others, but I can't remember all the threads I got this from. I take no responsibility for any bricked phones or the like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure what the deal is - I'm trying to do the same thing, but with T-Mobile US rather than Straight Talk... Should work fine, but when I make the above changes, I get com.android.phone stopped working over and over. If I follow every step above, but instead of "ro.telephony.default_network=3", I use "ro.telephony.default_network=7", it works fine, I can make calls on T-Mobile, but the signal strength is horrible. I can be where I normally have full 2G/3G signal, and the Bionic barely has one bar if anything. Most of the time it just says "No Service" unless I step outside, whereas my other T-mobile specific phones have no problems with the signal anywhere in my house.
What might I be doing wrong here? I just bought the Bionic as a backup as I've been told it works fine with GSM when you do the above tweaks, but I'm finding it's real-world operability on GSM to be less than stellar.
gully52 said:
I'm not sure what the deal is - I'm trying to do the same thing, but with T-Mobile US rather than Straight Talk... Should work fine, but when I make the above changes, I get com.android.phone stopped working over and over. If I follow every step above, but instead of "ro.telephony.default_network=3", I use "ro.telephony.default_network=7", it works fine, I can make calls on T-Mobile, but the signal strength is horrible. I can be where I normally have full 2G/3G signal, and the Bionic barely has one bar if anything. Most of the time it just says "No Service" unless I step outside, whereas my other T-mobile specific phones have no problems with the signal anywhere in my house.
What might I be doing wrong here? I just bought the Bionic as a backup as I've been told it works fine with GSM when you do the above tweaks, but I'm finding it's real-world operability on GSM to be less than stellar.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What rom are you using? I've used this technique on a ridiculous number of bionic roms to make them GSM so hopefully I can help, it's worth noting that I do not create a localprop. I found that most roms have the "ro.telephony.ril.v3" line in the default.prop and I can simply amend them by adding "signalstrength," (note the comma to include the end of the quotes) at the beginning of the entry. You might try wiping the rom and starting over but skip the step changing the radio with the *#*#4636#*#* part
---------- Post added at 11:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:10 AM ----------
shadolis said:
For the novices, to do this last part, you'll need a file manager like ES that can utilize root permissions after enabling in settings.
After this, any 4.3 or 4.4 ROM should let you edit APN settings, etc. You may need to set your radio to GSM (auto PRL) by going into your dialer and hitting *#*#4636#*#* and going into Phone Information then down to network type or whatever. I don't have a Motorola phone in front of me If that doesn't work, I've noticed GSM/WCDMA (auto PRL) works for some.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The settings adjusted in the default.prop permit that you do not need to change the radio. since i started using these particular settings, I've never had to change it and additionally found it to be commonly problematic. I also found that MOST roms do not need you to add the straight talk APN. Cyanogen and Paranoid, I know for fact include them. When you boot the phone for the first time you'll need to go into the settings and select the appropriate Straight Talk APN (mine is the MVNO one).
HW-A vs. HW-C
Plasmaleto said:
What rom are you using? I've used this technique on a ridiculous number of bionic roms to make them GSM so hopefully I can help, it's worth noting that I do not create a localprop. I found that most roms have the "ro.telephony.ril.v3" line in the default.prop and I can simply amend them by adding "signalstrength," (note the comma to include the end of the quotes) at the beginning of the entry. You might try wiping the rom and starting over but skip the step changing the radio with the *#*#4636#*#* part.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried with stock JB, as well as CM11 M11 in Slot 1. I've wiped and started over more times than I can count.
What do you mean that you add "signalstrength," at the beginning of the ro.telephony.ril.v3 entry? It's my understanding that the entry should be "ro.telephony.ril.v3=signalstrength". I don't understand what you mean by putting signalstrength at the beginning of the entry. Also, what's up with that comma?
Then again, all my difficulties could be in the fact that I have a "HW C" Bionic. Just got a "HW A" model, and will be tinkering with that soon too. It actually came with original Stock 5.5.886 Gingerbread ROM... Right now, I plan on upgrading to the 232 ICS leak (so I can go back to GB if needed), and see if I can get GSM working on it a little better.
How would you recommend I proceed with a bone stock ICS 6.7.232 ROM?
Thanks a BUNCH for your reply on this old (but fun to tinker with) phone!
Brian
gully52 said:
I've tried with stock JB, as well as CM11 M11 in Slot 1. I've wiped and started over more times than I can count.
What do you mean that you add "signalstrength," at the beginning of the ro.telephony.ril.v3 entry? It's my understanding that the entry should be "ro.telephony.ril.v3=signalstrength". I don't understand what you mean by putting signalstrength at the beginning of the entry. Also, what's up with that comma?
Then again, all my difficulties could be in the fact that I have a "HW C" Bionic. Just got a "HW A" model, and will be tinkering with that soon too. It actually came with original Stock 5.5.886 Gingerbread ROM... Right now, I plan on upgrading to the 232 ICS leak (so I can go back to GB if needed), and see if I can get GSM working on it a little better.
How would you recommend I proceed with a bone stock ICS 6.7.232 ROM?
Thanks a BUNCH for your reply on this old (but fun to tinker with) phone!
Brian
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahhhh yes, i believe you found the root of the issue. The method that was used for Ginger Bread was slightly different which almost certainly why the above may not be working for you. I practically forgot about that, I upgraded mine years ago. I've grown so fond of the bionic I'm on my third you can buy them second hand for like $50 to $100. So i Just keep fixing/repairing them haha.
I'm gonna dig through some old book marks and tutorials and find out how I upgraded mine originally and I'll post them up here for you. The timing of this coming up is almost bizarre. I'm actually in the middle of working on a website that lets you point it at a rom, it downloads it, modifies it for GSM, then provides you a link to download it. I'd actually like to make it an Android app because when I download rom updates, I have to make them GSM compatible first.
Plasmaleto said:
Ahhhh yes, i believe you found the root of the issue. The method that was used for Ginger Bread was slightly different which almost certainly why the above may not be working for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I mentioned above, I just received the phone that's still running Gingerbread on Rev. A Hardware. Haven't even tried to start messing with that phone yet.
The original phone I was having trouble with, prompting the post to this thread, was running stock Jelly Bean on Rev. C hardware.
You say you're on your 3rd Bionic because you like them so much! They are a rugged and capable phone, for sure. What carrier have you been using it with? I've been attempting plain old T-Mobile, but assume making it work for Straight Talk would make it work for T-Mobile as well, aside from APN settings.
How's your signal strength on your bionic compared to an official GSM phone, both for calls and data?
gully52 said:
As I mentioned above, I just received the phone that's still running Gingerbread on Rev. A Hardware. Haven't even tried to start messing with that phone yet.
The original phone I was having trouble with, prompting the post to this thread, was running stock Jelly Bean on Rev. C hardware.
You say you're on your 3rd Bionic because you like them so much! They are a rugged and capable phone, for sure. What carrier have you been using it with? I've been attempting plain old T-Mobile, but assume making it work for Straight Talk would make it work for T-Mobile as well, aside from APN settings.
How's your signal strength on your bionic compared to an official GSM phone, both for calls and data?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The #1 reason I continue using bionics is because of how cheap parts are if I need them (like when I drop them and break the screen ) and accessories. Like I have several docks that I've bought for like $7 a piece (retail was like ridiculous $40 or something but just for a dock $7 is dirt cheap). I even got the lapdock that I picked up on ebay for $50. You can't beat it. That thing is awesome. Add to it that you can get a micro HDMI to HDMI cable, hook this thing up to a TV and use it as an entertainment player sorta like a roku and it just keeps getting better. You can then use another android device and run AllCast to turn it into a chromecast wannabe. I've just found endless fun, with this particular model of android.
I personally utilize Straight Talk. No BS, $45 every month, no surprises. Love it. As far as GSM signal goes, it's like any other GSM phone!
gully52 said:
As I mentioned above, I just received the phone that's still running Gingerbread on Rev. A Hardware. Haven't even tried to start messing with that phone yet.
The original phone I was having trouble with, prompting the post to this thread, was running stock Jelly Bean on Rev. C hardware.
You say you're on your 3rd Bionic because you like them so much! They are a rugged and capable phone, for sure. What carrier have you been using it with? I've been attempting plain old T-Mobile, but assume making it work for Straight Talk would make it work for T-Mobile as well, aside from APN settings.
How's your signal strength on your bionic compared to an official GSM phone, both for calls and data?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So here's what I would do
1) Update to Jelly Bean (you can do this with official Motorola OTA updates or more info here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2235946)
2) Power on phone and edit the hex values with Radiocomm see: post 29/30 http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1297714&page=3
- - Be PARTICULARLY picky about this part, I found this to be extraordinarily difficult time and time again. Even though I've done it at least 5 or 6 times, I felt like it never went exactly as it should. After changing the value, you might even disconnect, reconnect, and make sure the hex value has changed.
3) Root the phone (this guide seems a little indepth but it works very well once you get it down compared to other methods http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2256439)
4) At this point you have a choice of either modifying stock rom or use custom ROMS. I HIGHLY recommend custom ROMS, the stock ROM is highly bloated. I have found that AOSP based ROMS like Cyanogen or Paranoid (personal recommendation), work considerably better in general in addition to being more suited for GSM usage.
Should you choose custom roms then here's what I would do next, I have found this is the easiest way to consistently use GSM:
a) You'll want to install SafeStrap or something similar (I've only got experience with SafeStrap personally and understand the developer has suspended his project from future updates but still works for me) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1391875
b) Once you have that, you can download almost any ROM, extract it to a folder, change the build.prop with the proper GSM configuration you listed, find the line for "ro.telephony.ril.v3" inside build.prop and add "signalstrength," (including punctuation) immediately after the equal sign. Don't bother with local.prop.
c) Re-zip it just like it was before, then install the ROM in a SafeStrap slot (probably want to add GApps)
d) Once it's booted, you can connect to wifi to setup the Google Acct and whatnot, then (this part varies slightly depending on the rom but AOSP roms are all pretty similar) go into the Settings: Mobile Networks: Access Point Names: Select the carrier of your choice (there's literally hundreds preloaded)
Lot of detail but a lot of specifics left out, if I can expound on anything please let me know which areas are too vague.
UPDATE: Here's the ROM I'm currently using. I literally install this thing with safe strap along with the pa gapps modular micro and just use it. No editing files, no thing. Just use it.
Paranoid Android Legacy Original - http://get.aospa.co/legacy/targa
Paranoid Android Legacy GSM Ready - http://dailen.bitnamiapp.com/roms/pa_targa-4.6-BETA5-20141022.GSM.zip
PA Gapps Modular Micro - https://www.androidfilehost.com/?w=files&flid=15801
Above and Beyond
Plasmaleto said:
Here's the ROM I'm currently using. I literally install this thing with safe strap along with the pa gapps modular micro and just use it. No editing files, no thing. Just use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow! This is above and beyond! Truly thankful for this guide. I'm fairly familiar with ROMs in general and putting Safestrap on the Bionic... but the fact that you hand-edited the PA ROM and provided a link... I deserve not such service!
Will attempt a flash tonight and let you know. Still plan to keep stock 232 ICS leak, since it will never get used once PA is installed! Will reply tomorrow if I get everything working!
Thanks again!
---------- Post added at 11:05 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:28 PM ----------
Plasmaleto said:
a) You'll want to install SafeStrap or something similar (I've only got experience with SafeStrap personally and understand the developer has suspended his project from future updates but still works for me)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What version of Safestrap are you running? I installed 3.73, and once installed, my stock ICS 232 gets stuck on the boot animation forever. FXZ back to 905 and then update to 232 to get back into ICS...
I dunno, maybe I'm making a big deal out of wanting to keep the path back to gingerbread. I should probably just bite the bullet and go up to stock JB first as you mentioned...
gully52 said:
Wow! This is above and beyond! Truly thankful for this guide. I'm fairly familiar with ROMs in general and putting Safestrap on the Bionic... but the fact that you hand-edited the PA ROM and provided a link... I deserve not such service!
Will attempt a flash tonight and let you know. Still plan to keep stock 232 ICS leak, since it will never get used once PA is installed! Will reply tomorrow if I get everything working!
Thanks again!
---------- Post added at 11:05 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:28 PM ----------
What version of Safestrap are you running? I installed 3.73, and once installed, my stock ICS 232 gets stuck on the boot animation forever. FXZ back to 905 and then update to 232 to get back into ICS...
I dunno, maybe I'm making a big deal out of wanting to keep the path back to gingerbread. I should probably just bite the bullet and go up to stock JB first as you mentioned...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For some reason I distinctly remember their being a link between the stock rom, and those installed in rom slots. I'm currently using 3.7.2. I also THINK I recall that a while back when I wanted to use SafeStrap 3.5 I only could do so if I upgrade to JB. I can't find any documentation to back these up so take it with a grain of salt. Personally, I'm one who upgrades and never looks back so maybe I'm just biased haha
(P.S. your eyes do not deceive you, my username changed from Plasmaleto to Dailen, special request made to XDA webmasters!)
I've made a tool to convert Bionic ROMS to GSM ready if anyone would like to give it a shot I'm likely to move or relocate this at some point btw
http://dailen.bitnamiapp.com/roms/convert.php
Relocated:
http://dailen.net/roms/convert.php
Dailen said:
For some reason I distinctly remember their being a link between the stock rom, and those installed in rom slots. I'm currently using 3.7.2. I also THINK I recall that a while back when I wanted to use SafeStrap 3.5 I only could do so if I upgrade to JB. I can't find any documentation to back these up so take it with a grain of salt. Personally, I'm one who upgrades and never looks back so maybe I'm just biased haha
(P.S. your eyes do not deceive you, my username changed from Plasmaleto to Dailen, special request made to XDA webmasters!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dailen (the artist formerly known as Plasmaleto),
I took the plunge and updated to stock JB, rooted, installed Safestrap 3.73, then installed your pre-GSM-configured version of Paranoid ROM. Rebooted, connected to wifi, got everything setup. Powered down, inserted my T-Mobile SIM card, and voila! Full HSPA signal! 5.01mb/sec download, 1.22mb/sec upload. Outgoing calls work! Incoming calls work! Data works! Super cool! Thanks again!
Congrats! Glad that worked for ya!
Dailen said:
I've made a tool to convert Bionic ROMS to GSM ready if anyone would like to give it a shot I'm likely to move or relocate this at some point btw
http://dailen.bitnamiapp.com/roms/convert.php
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just trying your tool on the CM11 M11 release. Will let you know how it works. Do you know, if I came across some older ROMs... JB 4.2/4.3, would your tool work for them as well?
Also, since you're a Bionic nut, I don't suppose you have a version of CarbonROM sitting around from before they dropped support for the Bionic? I contacted them and was surprised to learn that they have absolutely ZERO archive of old version downloads.
gully52 said:
Just trying your tool on the CM11 M11 release. Will let you know how it works. Do you know, if I came across some older ROMs... JB 4.2/4.3, would your tool work for them as well?
Also, since you're a Bionic nut, I don't suppose you have a version of CarbonROM sitting around from before they dropped support for the Bionic? I contacted them and was surprised to learn that they have absolutely ZERO archive of old version downloads.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well in theory the answer is yes. The way my script works, it changes only what it finds. If you can send me a link to one of the roms you'd like to try I'd be happy to take a look at the build.prop and tell you for sure if anything is missing.
Also, I don't recall having the carbonrom sitting around anywhere but I see their github still has the source posted, I suppose I could always try compiling for you. I got a couple ubuntu systems running I could put to some good use. Might take a few days.
Give it a shot!
Going to give this a shot right now on a friends Bionic. Unfortunately have to wait a few days for the Straight Talk Sim card to arrive. I'll report back.
Think I screwed up!
Dailen said:
Congrats! Glad that worked for ya!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe I have screwed up. I tried the radiocomm program last night and everything was green for me but I didn't write to the phone. I installed the pa_targa-4.6-BETA5-20141022.GSM.zip file, and the Gapps for that ROM. When I tried to go into Radiocomm again, it comes up red when I try to read (1877). Do I still need to do that or will the phone be good to go once I pop in an AT&T sim card? Thanks, Howie
meandg5 said:
I believe I have screwed up. I tried the radiocomm program last night and everything was green for me but I didn't write to the phone. I installed the pa_targa-4.6-BETA5-20141022.GSM.zip file, and the Gapps for that ROM. When I tried to go into Radiocomm again, it comes up red when I try to read (1877). Do I still need to do that or will the phone be good to go once I pop in an AT&T sim card? Thanks, Howie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Radiocomm is EXTREMELY particular and I swear it only works 3 out of 5 times. I seem to recall that when I did it, it wasn't "writing" the settings properly and I had to change the USB connection type. If my current setup is any indicator, it was set to "PST USB Driver". I also recall that one time I uninstalled the bionic drivers and reinstalled them and it started working.
It's probably worth mentioning that I would connect to your phone in Radiocomm while in the stock rom if possible. There's no telling if there's some quirky specific USB driver in the rom that Radiocomm depends on. When in doubt, try a different machine. Be sure to get the Bionic USB drivers working 100% (meaning no device errors in device manager) prior to doing the radiocomm stuff.
Problems: No sim card (I have a different network), unable to download or update anything, even over wifi. (Wifi does work for internet browsing.) Runs slowly.
First time Captivate owner and first time delving into tampering with electronics. Most of my "programming" experience is just learner's stuff: html in HS with a little JavaScript, then some intro to C++ a while back in my freshman year of college, so I'm not completely useless when it comes to files, codes and such.
My phone was stolen a few months back and a relative gave me a Captivate to use when they upgraded since the main function I was missing was the ability to take and send pictures instantly (for work and family). The phone has no SIM. I thought about trying to unlock it and using it as my primary phone but after a few days research it seems it wouldn't do me any good since it is an AT&T phone and I have Sprint, so not compatible networks (as far as I can tell).
Still, there are certain apps that I use on my tablet that would be easier to use on a smaller, more portable device. They are current Google Play apps. but the phone is on android 2.1 and still has the old market. I'm sure I'll need to update to a more current android version (which I'm not sure how to do). Without the SIM, it won't let me update through the phone itself. I thought I'd found a helpful response in another thread on how to update via USB, but it went to a mediafire file that was no longer available. It seems as though the lack of a SIM card is preventing any downloads, even over wifi. I can browse the internet, check email, log into facebook, etc... but at the same time even some of the current apps already on the phone won't work. I've tried looking to see if a sim is required for downloads to work, but so far I haven't found anything particularly useful.
Where/how do I update to the current version of Android? Do I need to update the ROMs & Kernels as well? What other files would need updated to "bring it up to speed"? What order? (I've read that is important.) I'm generally quick at picking up on things like this and looking forward to learning from you all.
Sumegitsune said:
Problems: No sim card (I have a different network), unable to download or update anything, even over wifi. (Wifi does work for internet browsing.) Runs slowly.
First time Captivate owner and first time delving into tampering with electronics. Most of my "programming" experience is just learner's stuff: html in HS with a little JavaScript, then some intro to C++ a while back in my freshman year of college, so I'm not completely useless when it comes to files, codes and such.
My phone was stolen a few months back and a relative gave me a Captivate to use when they upgraded since the main function I was missing was the ability to take and send pictures instantly (for work and family). The phone has no SIM. I thought about trying to unlock it and using it as my primary phone but after a few days research it seems it wouldn't do me any good since it is an AT&T phone and I have Sprint, so not compatible networks (as far as I can tell).
Still, there are certain apps that I use on my tablet that would be easier to use on a smaller, more portable device. They are current Google Play apps. but the phone is on android 2.1 and still has the old market. I'm sure I'll need to update to a more current android version (which I'm not sure how to do). Without the SIM, it won't let me update through the phone itself. I thought I'd found a helpful response in another thread on how to update via USB, but it went to a mediafire file that was no longer available. It seems as though the lack of a SIM card is preventing any downloads, even over wifi. I can browse the internet, check email, log into facebook, etc... but at the same time even some of the current apps already on the phone won't work. I've tried looking to see if a sim is required for downloads to work, but so far I haven't found anything particularly useful.
Where/how do I update to the current version of Android? Do I need to update the ROMs & Kernels as well? What other files would need updated to "bring it up to speed"? What order? (I've read that is important.) I'm generally quick at picking up on things like this and looking forward to learning from you all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's a guide on here to unlock the Captivate. You should be able to use it on Sprint once it's done.
As for updating, the cappy lost Samsung support a while ago but you can flash a custom ROM from here which should give you much better results thant stock firmware. You can follow a guide to do so, it's fairly straight forward.
If you do go for a custom ROM, I suggest you stick with JellyBean. Kitkat is a bit heavy for the Captivate.
BWolf56 said:
There's a guide on here to unlock the Captivate. You should be able to use it on Sprint once it's done.
As for updating, the cappy lost Samsung support a while ago but you can flash a custom ROM from here which should give you much better results thant stock firmware. You can follow a guide to do so, it's fairly straight forward.
If you do go for a custom ROM, I suggest you stick with JellyBean. Kitkat is a bit heavy for the Captivate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been going over the Wiki as I've had time. I installed Kies Mini and have almost upgraded from Eclair to Gingerbread. I'll try looking again at the unlock guides. The only ones I had seen before required a sim card. I thought sprint wouldn't be compatible since it doesn't use a card though? And any ideas why I can't download from the market over wifi?
Sumegitsune said:
I've been going over the Wiki as I've had time. I installed Kies Mini and have almost upgraded from Eclair to Gingerbread. I'll try looking again at the unlock guides. The only ones I had seen before required a sim card. I thought sprint wouldn't be compatible since it doesn't use a card though? And any ideas why I can't download from the market over wifi?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not so sure why you can't download over wifi, that should work w/o a sim card (as long as you're connected to your Google account).
And Sprint does use sim cards (just like any other carrier). You don't really need another card to unlock. But being with Sprint, don't you have a sim card? Otherwise, you can always get one from them for fairly cheap.
imersati from
BWolf56 said:
Not so sure why you can't download over wifi, that should work w/o a sim card (as long as you're connected to your Google account).
And Sprint does use sim cards (just like any other carrier). You don't really need another card to unlock. But being with Sprint, don't you have a sim card? Otherwise, you can always get one from them for fairly cheap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just finished the update to Gingerbread. Couldn't download with Eclair, but Gingerbread was letting me (albeit slowly). If I update to Jellybean would that fix the slowness?
I don't think my last phone had a sim, at least I do not remember seeing a card. It was a Galaxy S3..
---
Just looked it up:
Unlike the other carriers with Galaxy S3 phone availability, Sprint opted not to have a removable SIM card for their version. Instead, the SIM card is embedded into the S3 phone itself.
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Even so, my last phone was stolen, otherwise I wouldn't have needed this one. Thanks anyway though. I'll see if I can get a sim card. My current phone doesn't have one either (Samsung Seek) When you mentioned sprint had sims, I thought I'd lucked out, but nope! lol
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Just got off the phone with sprint. I only told her it was a galaxy S, but she said that sprint doesn't use sim cards anymore, they're for international use. Not sure how accurate that is but I'm going to try unlocking it without a sim and see if it'll work. If not they said they could try to get one for me. ^_^ Either way, looks like my main project will be speeding it up (if possible). Thanks again!
Sumegitsune said:
Just finished the update to Gingerbread. Couldn't download with Eclair, but Gingerbread was letting me (albeit slowly). If I update to Jellybean would that fix the slowness?
I don't think my last phone had a sim, at least I do not remember seeing a card. It was a Galaxy S3..
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Just looked it up:
Even so, my last phone was stolen, otherwise I wouldn't have needed this one. Thanks anyway though. I'll see if I can get a sim card. My current phone doesn't have one either (Samsung Seek) When you mentioned sprint had sims, I thought I'd lucked out, but nope! lol
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Just got off the phone with sprint. I only told her it was a galaxy S, but she said that sprint doesn't use sim cards anymore, they're for international use. Not sure how accurate that is but I'm going to try unlocking it without a sim and see if it'll work. If not they said they could try to get one for me. ^_^ Either way, looks like my main project will be speeding it up (if possible). Thanks again!
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Getting a JB custom ROM on it will surely speed it up. As for the download speed though, not a whole lot can be done. It has some old hardware and it also depends on your router. That being said, a newer kernel could help.
I found finally a thread for rooting my phone. (All the other methods I'd found seemed to have issues with GB). Worked great! Found the Galaxy_S Unlock by helroz (after tons of searching), but it's "not available in your country". I'm searching for a way to get it downloaded anyway, but don't know if it'll work w/ GB. Tried Superoneclick and it said device was already rooted (true) but when I tried to get the unlock code, nothing happened. It apparently doesn't work with GB, only Eclair & maybe Froyo. So right now it's either get helroz's app downloaded or I have to go back to Froyo some how (since going back two builds is apparently not recommended), find a way to unlock it, and upgrade it again. I'm going to keep looking, but if anyone knows how a better way to unlock it, I'd appreciate it!
Phone: Samsung Galaxy Captivate
Firmware: 2.3.5
Baseband: I897UCKK4
Kernael: 2.6.35.7-I897UCKK4-CORNv70A
Build: GINGERBREAD.UCKK4
Sumegitsune said:
I found finally a thread for rooting my phone. (All the other methods I'd found seemed to have issues with GB). Worked great! Found the Galaxy_S Unlock by helroz (after tons of searching), but it's "not available in your country". I'm searching for a way to get it downloaded anyway, but don't know if it'll work w/ GB. Tried Superoneclick and it said device was already rooted (true) but when I tried to get the unlock code, nothing happened. It apparently doesn't work with GB, only Eclair & maybe Froyo. So right now it's either get helroz's app downloaded or I have to go back to Froyo some how (since going back two builds is apparently not recommended), find a way to unlock it, and upgrade it again. I'm going to keep looking, but if anyone knows how a better way to unlock it, I'd appreciate it!
Phone: Samsung Galaxy Captivate
Firmware: 2.3.5
Baseband: I897UCKK4
Kernael: 2.6.35.7-I897UCKK4-CORNv70A
Build: GINGERBREAD.UCKK4
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You don't need another root if it's already rooted. I'm not sure about the steps to unlock the Cappy but it's possible that it needs to be on a older version.