Database Develop

[Q] Seriously? Why does my new captivate constantly brick?

Sorry for the long read, this is half rant and half question.
Alright, I got a captivate a long time ago (about a year and 3 months ago), loved it, rooted it and installed cyanogenmod as soon as I got home, changed roms and kernals constantly, did whatever I wanted to do.
About 3 months ago my screen stopped working.. So I take it in and they give me a refurb captivate, looked brand new so I didn't mind. However, when I tried to get into recovery it didn't work, the 3-button-method just wouldn't work at all, period, so I try to get it to work, gets stuck in bootloop.. pretty much every time I try to flash a rom something goes wrong and I get stuck in a bootloop but I can usually get into recovery or download mode because I had CWM.
So I'm on maxq's rom and it's working great for the past 2 months, decide not to mess with kernals or anything, however today I decided to try ICS, load it up, everything's fine, then I realize my soft keys aren't working, search for awhile, can't find anything, finally just manually start looking through the rom pages, and someone said that if you have the problem to just odin back to stock and try again.
I odin back to stock, but now 3 button combo doesn't work.. So more searching, find that I can run the 3e fix by TRusselo, doesn't work because I need root, more searching on how to root without recovery, find "SuperOneClick", root with superoneclick, then run 3e fix, everything is working fine, I check my email and load the ICS files onto SD card, go to restart and go into recovery mode.. Bricked, stuck in a bootloop, won't go to recovery, won't go to download, nothing.
Why the **** was I able to do anything I wanted with my old captivate, but if I even root this one it bricks? And what did I do to even brick it? I only ran the 2 programs and both of them worked flawlessly.
I guess my only option is to usb jig it, but honestly now I'm convinced that the phone is just faulty, I want to run the thing over.

-Pirate said:
So I'm on maxq's rom and it's working great for the past 2 months, decide not to mess with kernals or anything, however today I decided to try ICS, load it up, everything's fine, then I realize my soft keys aren't working, search for awhile, can't find anything, finally just manually start looking through the rom pages, and someone said that if you have the problem to just odin back to stock and try again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you would have actually searched you would have known it was a bug in the glitch. There are atleast 40 pages about that.
-Pirate said:
I odin back to stock, but now 3 button combo doesn't work.. So more searching, find that I can run the 3e fix by TRusselo, doesn't work because I need root, more searching on how to root without recovery, find "SuperOneClick", root with superoneclick, then run 3e fix, everything is working fine, I check my email and load the ICS files onto SD card, go to restart and go into recovery mode.. Bricked, stuck in a bootloop, won't go to recovery, won't go to download, nothing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you flashed ICS you should know it takes 2 flashes for it to work first time. Having a jig around is always a good idea as well.
-Pirate said:
Why the **** was I able to do anything I wanted with my old captivate, but if I even root this one it bricks? And what did I do to even brick it? I only ran the 2 programs and both of them worked flawlessly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stuff doesn't work as intended. Keep in mind everything is still in dev and not all devices are the same. But you should have searched a little more and it would have ran =/

U def don't need a jig. If it's booting it's not bricked. Try removing battery, start Odin, hold down power and down, plug in and put battery in. This should bring u to download mode.

prbassplayer said:
If you would have actually searched you would have known it was a bug in the glitch. There are atleast 40 pages about that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did start to see a few people with the problem, however many people do not follow up with what fixes their problem, and I did what a few people had said to do.
prbassplayer said:
If you flashed ICS you should know it takes 2 flashes for it to work first time. Having a jig around is always a good idea as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I should of mentioned that I did flash a few times, 3 total I think, it was getting stuck at boot.
prbassplayer said:
Stuff doesn't work as intended. Keep in mind everything is still in dev and not all devices are the same. But you should have searched a little more and it would have ran =/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand that **** happens but honestly my old captivate could always get into recover mode and download mode no matter what, it's extremely frustrating that something changed with the newer models. One of my questions was what caused the brick? I did nothing wrong from what I see and it was running perfectly until I tried to restart/boot into recovery.
Oh and mbc663, thanks but download mode doesn't work at all, nor does recovery obviously.

I can't say exactly what you are doing. Best advice I can do Re download your .zips Flash back to stock GB and try again.

-Pirate said:
About 3 months ago my screen stopped working.. So I take it in and they give me a refurb captivate, looked brand new so I didn't mind. However, when I tried to get into recovery it didn't work, the 3-button-method just wouldn't work at all, period, so I try to get it to work, gets stuck in bootloop.. pretty much every time I try to flash a rom something goes wrong and I get stuck in a bootloop but I can usually get into recovery or download mode because I had CWM.
So I'm on maxq's rom and it's working great for the past 2 months, decide not to mess with kernals or anything, however today I decided to try ICS, load it up, everything's fine, then I realize my soft keys aren't working, search for awhile, can't find anything, finally just manually start looking through the rom pages, and someone said that if you have the problem to just odin back to stock and try again.
I odin back to stock, but now 3 button combo doesn't work.. So more searching, find that I can run the 3e fix by TRusselo, doesn't work because I need root, more searching on how to root without recovery, find "SuperOneClick", root with superoneclick, then run 3e fix, everything is working fine, I check my email and load the ICS files onto SD card, go to restart and go into recovery mode.. Bricked, stuck in a bootloop, won't go to recovery, won't go to download, nothing.
Why the **** was I able to do anything I wanted with my old captivate, but if I even root this one it bricks? And what did I do to even brick it? I only ran the 2 programs and both of them worked flawlessly.
I guess my only option is to usb jig it, but honestly now I'm convinced that the phone is just faulty, I want to run the thing over.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Last year, I had issues with my original Cap, and got a "new" one. I learned that the bulk of the Caps going out as replacements are referbs. The one I got was a 1008 build, and does not have 3 button recovery. There are minor differences with each and every Cap that's out there. That's why some have issues with ROM's and some don't, some can over clock like crazy, and some can't at all. My guess is you have a 1008 as well, but that really doesn't matter. You just have a different device and as you seem to already have learned.
It sounds like there is more research you need to do. Even though the devices are a bit different, if you are having issues with ROM's loading, then I would say it's more of a procedure issue, than one with your device.
My procedure, is,
Remove SD/Micro SD
Odin1 Click to Stock JF6, and Master Clear(This will erase EVERYTHING)
Root with One-Click Root
Use Sideload Wonder Machine to install ROM Manager, copy update.zip and 3buttonFix to my SD, then reboot into recovery
Once in recovery I install the 3buttonFix, and install my new ROM
For me this has proven to be a very good method versus going from one ROM to another. The Master Clear cleans EVERYTHING off of your SD, so there is no chance for anything to corrupt your new install. Anytime I read a post of a install gone FUBAR, USUALLY a Flash To Stock/Master Clear (FTS/MC) fixes it
Before using Odin 1 Click, check your devices build number!! If it is higher than 1012, I would NOT recommend using 1 click, there is a higher chance of hard brick on the newer devices

Kangi...if you flash a firmware package without bootloaders, you won't have to do the 3 button fix every time. And if you keep a copy of the update.zip on your pc you don't have to even root, let alone bother with side loading ROM manager.
Cezar has a no boots jf6 and after you run that, you can still use master clear in one click.

Sounds like you got one of the refurbs that is missing the SBL. Have you looked at this thread? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1129821
I've not had this problem myself but it sounds like that might help. If I remember reading correctly, once this is flashed it should stick as long as you don't flash any other bootloaders on top of it.

Its not missing the sbl. The sbl it has doesn't respond to key combos. Derpa sherpa moment for samsung I guess?

Rofl yeah...if it was missing the sbl it would be fuggin bricked!

studacris said:
Kangi...if you flash a firmware package without bootloaders, you won't have to do the 3 button fix every time. And if you keep a copy of the update.zip on your pc you don't have to even root, let alone bother with side loading ROM manager.
Cezar has a no boots jf6 and after you run that, you can still use master clear in one click.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, thanks. I'm such a creature of habit, I started doing it like this a bit over a year ago, and has worked flawlessly for me(just jinxed myself!) so I never saw a reason to "fix what aint broke".
I'll take a look at Cezar's thanks!

Yeah, missing SBL was a poor choice of words. My bad.

kangi26 said:
Last year, I had issues with my original Cap, and got a "new" one. I learned that the bulk of the Caps going out as replacements are referbs. The one I got was a 1008 build, and does not have 3 button recovery. There are minor differences with each and every Cap that's out there. That's why some have issues with ROM's and some don't, some can over clock like crazy, and some can't at all. My guess is you have a 1008 as well, but that really doesn't matter. You just have a different device and as you seem to already have learned.
It sounds like there is more research you need to do. Even though the devices are a bit different, if you are having issues with ROM's loading, then I would say it's more of a procedure issue, than one with your device.
My procedure, is,
Remove SD/Micro SD
Odin1 Click to Stock JF6, and Master Clear(This will erase EVERYTHING)
Root with One-Click Root
Use Sideload Wonder Machine to install ROM Manager, copy update.zip and 3buttonFix to my SD, then reboot into recovery
Once in recovery I install the 3buttonFix, and install my new ROM
For me this has proven to be a very good method versus going from one ROM to another. The Master Clear cleans EVERYTHING off of your SD, so there is no chance for anything to corrupt your new install. Anytime I read a post of a install gone FUBAR, USUALLY a Flash To Stock/Master Clear (FTS/MC) fixes it
Before using Odin 1 Click, check your devices build number!! If it is higher than 1012, I would NOT recommend using 1 click, there is a higher chance of hard brick on the newer devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't think anyone else was going to reply to this thread, whoops.
Thank you for helping me, but I'm still having trouble.
Rom manager doesn't show up in Market, Sideload wonder machine tells me [INSTALL FAILED OLDER SDK] with any apk of Rom manager I find.
kangi26 said:
3buttonFix to my SD, then reboot into recovery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you reboot into recovery when 3buttonfix hasn't been applied yet?
This sucks and is extremely frustrating, I feel like my captivate is just trolling me.

-Pirate said:
I didn't think anyone else was going to reply to this thread, whoops.
Thank you for helping me, but I'm still having trouble.
Rom manager doesn't show up in Market, Sideload wonder machine tells me [INSTALL FAILED OLDER SDK] with any apk of Rom manager I find.
How do you reboot into recovery when 3buttonfix hasn't been applied yet?
This sucks and is extremely frustrating, I feel like my captivate is just trolling me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I get home later tonight I'll link you everything you'll need. Again, VERY important, what is your build number? If it's 1012 or higher, don't use Odin 1 click
Sent from a autonomous device

kangi26 said:
When I get home later tonight I'll link you everything you'll need. Again, VERY important, what is your build number? If it's 1012 or higher, don't use Odin 1 click
Sent from a autonomous device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, finally got it working, I did exactly what you said, I found the rom manager 3.00.002 or whatever and that worked with sideloader, it took some messing around with but I'm running ICS now, thank you so much man, you've helped me so much, and now I can change roms and keep up to date without worrying about constantly soft-bricking.
As for my build number, I'm not sure, the only thing I see under build number in settings is: "IML74k"

-Pirate said:
Ok, finally got it working, I did exactly what you said, I found the rom manager 3.00.002 or whatever and that worked with sideloader, it took some messing around with but I'm running ICS now, thank you so much man, you've helped me so much, and now I can change roms and keep up to date without worrying about constantly soft-bricking.
As for my build number, I'm not sure, the only thing I see under build number in settings is: "IML74k"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The build number is actually under your battery, and looks like 10.06, 10.07, 10.08 and so on. It is the production date
Edit** And as a side note, do NOT try to use the 3buttonFix with a GB ROM, it WILL brick your phone in a really bad way. ONLY use it with 2.1 or 2.2

kangi26 said:
The build number is actually under your battery, and looks like 10.06, 10.07, 10.08 and so on. It is the production date
Edit** And as a side note, do NOT try to use the 3buttonFix with a GB ROM, it WILL brick your phone in a really bad way. ONLY use it with 2.1 or 2.2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is it weird that I don't have a build number? It seems I can't post pictures without a few more posts, maybe this will work: deleted
And thanks for the warning on the 3buttonfix, I'm going to have to read more about bootloaders though, I don't understand what you and studacris were talking about earlier in the thread, haha.

-Pirate said:
Is it weird that I don't have a build number? It seems I can't post pictures without a few more posts, maybe this will work: imgurDOTcom/26sXGl.jpg
And thanks for the warning on the 3buttonfix, I'm going to have to read more about bootloaders though, I don't understand what you and studacris were talking about earlier in the thread, haha.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I havent seen that before, there doesnt seem to be a build#
Might want to pull that photo, it's not too good having your IMEI number publicly displayed

kangi26 said:
I havent seen that before, there doesnt seem to be a build#
Might want to pull that photo, it's not too good having your IMEI number publicly displayed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe because it's a refurb? and whoops didn't think about that.

-Pirate said:
Maybe because it's a refurb? and whoops didn't think about that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure why, mine is a referb, and I have a sticker with mine on it. Ooh well, it is what it is
Sent from a autonomous device

After being scared to do it, I flashed my Samsung Galaxy S 4 Active (I537) to KitKat

This is my first post and I'm going to try my best to not break a rule. If I do, I apologize in advance.
Thread thread is a sort of, "This is how I updated my phone from 4.2.2 to 4.4.2 and rooted it but your mileage may vary."
First, thanks goes to Sunderwear for his directions on how to push KitKat to the Samsung S4 Active as well as ROOT it. I rooted my 4.2.2 phone a few months ago and didn't realize doing so would prevent OTA updates. I went to the AT&T store to have them put 4.4.2 on the phone only to be told that the store didn't have the image (or whatever they said) and couldn't put it on my phone. Instead, they put 4.3, which turned out to be great because the directions pretty much have you going back to 4.3 in order to root.
BTW, if you are uninitiated, you may want to read this glossary page.
After having root in 4.2, I knew I wanted it in 4.4.2!
For the most part, I've been hesitant to flash the phone. I tried like hell to flash my first Android (Samsung S2 Skyrocket) only to brick it. (FWIW, if you can tell me how to fix it, I'd be gracious! It buzzes once and then twice and repeats.)
Anyway, I started in the thread above only to find that I now needed to download Odin. This, surprisingly, was difficult. I found this site (http://odindownload.com/) which I am convinced is some sort of hacked version of Odin because when I tried to install from there, my Symantic warned me. When I disabled it, the file tried to install a bunch of bloatware/spyware. It EVENTUALLY gave me Odin.
FYI, this thread was of no use. No download links.
Later on, after searching for something unrelated, I got to a "better" site. Unlike the link above, this site has a zip file compared to the bloat-ridden executable.
I learned that I had to use Odin 3.07 and NOT Odin 3.09. Odin 3.09 did not have the PDA button that would be central to me flashing the ROM to the phone.
I started my journey on the thread for the Stock AT&T Firmware Collection. I learned that the thread uses the last three characters of the build name to identify the build. For example, 4.3's build name is I537UCUBML2 but was referred to as "ML2". This was a bit confusing but I got the hang of it. I then went over to the 4.4.2 rooting thread. It was there that I read Sunderwear says that you need to downgrade to 4.3 to root 4.4. I was grateful that AT&T only updated me to 4.3!
Sunderwear's second post described how to root 4.4.2 if you had a rooted 4.3. Since I hadn't done that yet, I proceeded back to the firmware collection and found the thread to root my 4.3 phone.
I downloaded the files and loaded up the first file to flash. I made the mistake of keeping my phone plugged in while trying to put it in download mode. It was when I stumbled upon this page that gave me the clue that my phone had to be disconnected first before going into download mode.
Once done, I clicked Start and Odin flashed my phone! It took about 2-3 minutes.
The next step was to do saferoot. The thread didn't link it so here it is.
SafeRoot requires your phone to be in USB debugging mode. Directions were found by googling. You go to Settings, About Device, and click Build Number until you get a message saying you have enabled developer mode. Then go back out one screen and go into Debugging options and enable USB debugging.
One installed I rebooted the phone and everything worked...except for wifi and "some other stuff". The thread warned you about this so I didn't worry. I flashed the next file and rebooted. Updated SuperSU and everything worked!!
I verified that I had root by installing Root Checker.
All was great with 4.3! Now for what turned out to be the more agonizing part: Upgrading to 4.4.2.
Going back to the 4.4.2 rooting thread, I learned that all I needed to do was install SafeTrap to update to KitKat and then flash a couple more files. I downloaded pwnedkitkat.zip (link in the thread) and then installed SafeTrap. I presume that SafeTrap is some sort of bootstraping method of updating the firmware.
I copied the SafeTrap apk file, along with pwnedkitkat and the updated superSU zip files to my external SD card. Once everything was copied, I installed SafeTrap and then opened it. SafeTrap then offered me the option to install Recovery Mode. Once done, I restarted my phone.
I noticed a new splash screen after the Samsung splashscreen. I clicked the Menu button (left of home) to start the recovery process. I clicked "Install" and pointed it to the pwnedkitkat.zip file. This took the longest. Probably took 15 minutes but felt like an eternity. I wasn't sure if my phone bricked when the screen turned off! But upon turning it back on, it was still going.
The bar moved very slowly. But remained patient. After a long 15-20 minutes, it updated! SafeTrap gave me the option to reboot there but I followed the directions and installed SuperSU from the SD card. It was a quick install.
I restarted the phone! I was done!! Right?
My phone got stuck on the AT&T splash screen! I started to panic! What did I do wrong?!
I missed Sunderwear's step five:
5.Put your phone in download mode and flash the 4.4.2 stock boot.tar.md5 kernel and your phone will boot after a few minutes with root access enabled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Goes to show you to read everything. I missed it due to the line break. I downloaded the boot.tar.md5 file and put the phone back into download mode and push it via PDA in Odin (I presume PDA. It wasn't explicit.)
After a few hours of chewing my nails and wondering if I bricked it:
http://imgur.com/a/UFg6u#F5qFTdq
So thanks to everyone! Now if I could only unbrick my Skyrocket!

Outstanding instructions! Thank you for this. I wish all the instructions were as clear and detailed as this is.
:good:

I tried like hell to flash my first Android (Samsung S2 Skyrocket) only to brick it. (FWIW, if you can tell me how to fix it, I'd be gracious! It buzzes once and then twice and repeats.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do you mean it vibrates every 2 seconds and doesn't turn on?

:good:

Great instructions and great story. Sounds like what most people like me go through every time we try to do something like this.

jimmietilt said:
do you mean it vibrates every 2 seconds and doesn't turn on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. The last time I looked into this was almost two years ago. It just sits in my drawer now.

dajabec said:
Great instructions and great story. Sounds like what most people like me go through every time we try to do something like this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think what got me was all the new terminology and unfamiliarity of flashing. Jailbreaking an iPhone (which I've done before I had an Android) is pretty simple. It's pretty much point and click. But ROMs, flashing...these all have definitions which can be a bit overwhelming, even to a technical person such as myself. I've compiled Linux kernels from scratch!
But there's something about making your phone unusable. Something that I cannot live without, especially as I'm searching for a job.
It's nerve-wracking and I especially got nervous when I was putting KitKat on since it took so long. But overall, I'm glad I did it.

Mike, I wish everyone's instructions were like yours. I am in a similar boat as you, currently on 4.2.2 rooted and unable to do an OTA. I am not really sure what to do as I do not want my phone to be wiped. Did you bring your phone to an ATT store or a Device Support Center? And when they flashed 4.3 did your phone lose anything?

Agent. said:
Mike, I wish everyone's instructions were like yours. I am in a similar boat as you, currently on 4.2.2 rooted and unable to do an OTA. I am not really sure what to do as I do not want my phone to be wiped. Did you bring your phone to an ATT store or a Device Support Center? And when they flashed 4.3 did your phone lose anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Backup using Samsung kies and go find the 4.3 Odin package. Hell I just use the Google backup feature which is good enough for me.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I537 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

rdh28 said:
Backup using Samsung kies and go find the 4.3 Odin package. Hell I just use the Google backup feature which is good enough for me.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I537 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't want to go through all of the trouble of reconfiguring all of my settings, restoring all of my app specific stuff, and just getting everything back the way I had it. Does Kies backup every little thing or just app data and contacts etc?

Agent. said:
I don't want to go through all of the trouble of reconfiguring all of my settings, restoring all of my app specific stuff, and just getting everything back the way I had it. Does Kies backup every little thing or just app data and contacts etc?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure but if you really want to upgrade it's worth the thirty minutes it takes to reconfigure
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I537 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Agent. said:
I don't want to go through all of the trouble of reconfiguring all of my settings, restoring all of my app specific stuff, and just getting everything back the way I had it. Does Kies backup every little thing or just app data and contacts etc?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use Titanium Backup. Just make sure you don't restore system apps and you'll be fine.

rdh28 said:
Not sure but if you really want to upgrade it's worth the thirty minutes it takes to reconfigure
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I537 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, I will probably do it this summer, I'm just really busy right now and can't afford to risk anything happen to my phone
Devo7v said:
Use Titanium Backup. Just make sure you don't restore system apps and you'll be fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The system apps are one of the primary issues as that is what needs to be reconfigured, other apps can be backed up and restored easily.

Agent. said:
I am not really sure what to do as I do not want my phone to be wiped. Did you bring your phone to an ATT store or a Device Support Center? And when they flashed 4.3 did your phone lose anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I took mine to the AT&T device support center. I called before going in and they pretty much told me it was going to be destructive. I had previously wiped my phone earlier that day in the hopes that it would receive the OTA update.
I'm not going to lie: it's nerve-wracking, but straight forward. I know sometimes it helps to have someone hold your hand while you do it. And for me, it was definitely in the camp of, "What am I going to do if my phone craps out on me?"
But like what someone else said: you can back up your settings within Keis. I didn't. I just did a wipe. I backed up my photos but that's about it. Everything else was in the cloud. The one thing I should have done was transfer my Authenticator keys to another device because I couldn't log into AWS (which does not give out backup codes like Google). I did end up switching to Authy (I can't link to it since I'm such a new user but you can find it in the Play Store) which allows you to have more than one device. It shares your secret key between devices so it's technically less secure. But I needed the flexibility in case my phone crapped out on me again.
Pro Tip: to install all your apps again, go to the Google play store on your device and click "My Apps". Long hold one of the apps and then select the check boxes of the apps you want to install.

And hey if you run into anything there's plenty of people who check this forum regularly. I've managed to root 4.2.2 , 4.3, and 4.4.2 while retaining full functionality, just from this forum...the information is out there good luck!!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I537 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Agent. said:
I know, I will probably do it this summer, I'm just really busy right now and can't afford to risk anything happen to my phone
The system apps are one of the primary issues as that is what needs to be reconfigured, other apps can be backed up and restored easily.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What system apps need to be reconfigured? I can't really see that many that it would take you more than 15 to 20 minutes.

Thank you guys, I need to get my phone serviced anyway as there is a yellow dot in the top left of the screen that won't go away. So if AT&T sends me a new phone I can do all of the dirty work and then transfer everything side by side from the old device. If they won't for whatever reason I will do what you guys suggested. So just to be clear I should follow the instructions to Odin to 4.3, root, then follow the upgrade/root instructions to 4.4.2?

Agent. said:
So just to be clear I should follow the instructions to Odin to 4.3, root, then follow the upgrade/root instructions to 4.4.2?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally thing this is better since if you have 4.4.2 already, you have to downgrade to 4.3, root it and then put 4.4.2 on it.

Need Stock Firmware G900AUCU2AND3!!!

I need the Stock Firmware version G900AUCU2AND3 So that I can flash back to stock. In the thread return to stock it has the previous version G900AUCU1ANCE. I get a error when trying to odin back (SW REV CHECK FAIL : [about]Fused 2 > Binary 1). So I am not sure how its done but need someone who has it do a dump or how ever its done to get it in a way that it can be flashed either by odin or in recovery... Any help will be appreciated... Thanks

i will need this too, i have my phone on at&t next and after a year i can trade it in, but if its custom os and stuff i cant return it, so i will need this too if i want to return to stock so i can upgrade to a new phone next year.

Bump: This is needed very badly. As I imagine many people had to take that bloat ware update. If anyone that has this firm ware has a problem and needs to restore back to stock. They won't be able to use the one that's listed in on this forum as its the older one, and now that there is Root. Its very likely this will happen daily that people will need it. I don't know exactly what soft bricked my phone so it can happen to anyone. My phone was fine until a reboot. Please, please, please. I'm begging everyone that has it. I asked Samsung and they wouldn't help. Next maybe going to AT&T store and having warranty claim done. I don't really want to find the out come of that.

I need this very badly as well. I rooted my phone and then tried to alter my screen density via an app I found on Google Play. It requested root, I granted the permission and then when the phone rebooted it hung on "Samsung Galaxy S5" splash screen and will no go any further. ODIN will not allow me to flash G900AUCU1ANCE firmware since I did the OTA update. If anyone could post up their G900AUCU2AND3, I would appreciate it very much.

kwikrat said:
I need this very badly as well. I rooted my phone and then tried to alter my screen density via an app I found on Google Play. It requested root, I granted the permission and then when the phone rebooted it hung on "Samsung Galaxy S5" splash screen and will no go any further. ODIN will not allow me to flash G900AUCU1ANCE firmware since I did the OTA update. If anyone could post up their G900AUCU2AND3, I would appreciate it very much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I estimate we will get @ least One to two of these per-day until we get the files. Since we now have Root. It may take a bit as At&t version don't seem to have much for devs. Or ones that care to really help.(I'll probably get reamed for this. Sorry for you that help and for your time) I contacted At&t they told me they could not help but I could send my phone in for warranty exchange. Its that or go to BestBuy and they can flash it back. I don't have a Bestbuy Nearby.

Guys, check that post. Shortydoggg found a temporary fix for any soft bricks. It's for extreme cases. My phone is fine (apart from some deleted stock apps) so I'll hold off until i get some more info but if you cant boot at all, his method should come in handy.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2785185&goto=newpost

+1 :highfive:

NotDavid said:
Guys, check that post. Shortydoggg found a temporary fix for any soft bricks. It's for extreme cases. My phone is fine (apart from some deleted stock apps) so I'll hold off until i get some more info but if you cant boot at all, his method should come in handy.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2785185&goto=newpost
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. The above link solved my problem. I am back up and running! At first data wasn't working other than wi-fi but I merely had to re-enter my APN that I got from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2746380 :good:

can you update to G900AUCU2AND3 after flashing this?

dave1977nj said:
can you update to G900AUCU2AND3 after flashing this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
YUP, I did the AT&T update check and got it immediately afterwards. I instead of flashing every one separately and rebooting loaded the three files so minus the Bl file. I did not have the problems of having to reload APN this way.

pcidiot said:
YUP, I did the AT&T update check and got it immediately afterwards. I instead of flashing every one separately and rebooting loaded the three files so minus the Bl file. I did not have the problems of having to reload APN this way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!!! :good:

pcidiot said:
YUP, I did the AT&T update check and got it immediately afterwards. I instead of flashing every one separately and rebooting loaded the three files so minus the Bl file. I did not have the problems of having to reload APN this way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A flash of the CSC file restores the APN after flashing the AP file, or flashing it together with the AP file, but it factory resets the phone. Flashing the AP file only is mostly for those who do not want a factory reset. But, a factory reset along with flashing only the AP file will indeed wipe the APN. I found all of that out through trial and error.

shortydoggg said:
A flash of the CSC file restores the APN after flashing the AP file, or flashing it together with the AP file, but it factory resets the phone. Flashing the AP file only is mostly for those who do not want a factory reset. But, a factory reset along with flashing only the AP file will indeed wipe the APN. I found all of that out through trial and error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your trials this will be useful to many.

pcidiot said:
Thanks for your trials this will be useful to many.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem.

dave1977nj said:
can you update to G900AUCU2AND3 after flashing this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes do not root first, flash it then wait a few minutes then do a check for updates it will download the crap update with the yp yellow pages app,
then reboot and root
and take it away !!

pcidiot said:
Bump: This is needed very badly. As I imagine many people had to take that bloat ware update. If anyone that has this firm ware has a problem and needs to restore back to stock. They won't be able to use the one that's listed in on this forum as its the older one, and now that there is Root. Its very likely this will happen daily that people will need it. I don't know exactly what soft bricked my phone so it can happen to anyone. My phone was fine until a reboot. Please, please, please. I'm begging everyone that has it. I asked Samsung and they wouldn't help. Next maybe going to AT&T store and having warranty claim done. I don't really want to find the out come of that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same troubles here pcidiot!!!! soft bricked and nothing will load onto the phone. ODIN gives me the same kind of error as listed on the starting thread! I can get to recovery mode and Download (ODIN) mode on the phone but nothing wants to flash. Do we dump? Do we Erase Nand? CONFUSING!!! why is it so easy to bunk up a phone!

Achilles5410 said:
Same troubles here pcidiot!!!! soft bricked and nothing will load onto the phone. ODIN gives me the same kind of error as listed on the starting thread! I can get to recovery mode and Download (ODIN) mode on the phone but nothing wants to flash. Do we dump? Do we Erase Nand? CONFUSING!!! why is it so easy to bunk up a phone!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There should only be two boxes checked in odin thats f. reset time and auto reboot. Also Make sure you only check and load your firmware in the ap slot in odin. Now flash.

Achilles5410 said:
Same troubles here pcidiot!!!! soft bricked and nothing will load onto the phone. ODIN gives me the same kind of error as listed on the starting thread! I can get to recovery mode and Download (ODIN) mode on the phone but nothing wants to flash. Do we dump? Do we Erase Nand? CONFUSING!!! why is it so easy to bunk up a phone!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you following this guide?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=53454972&postcount=1

shortydoggg said:
Are you following this guide?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=53454972&postcount=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I did thank you. Did it today and thanked the poster too.

Want to start over! Need help!
So I want to do whats written out in step 4 of shorttydogs thread but I don't want to mess up or brick my phone. My goal is to start over and go back to stock with bloatware and everything that is available on stock if I were to go AT&T and buy it today. Here is a little background on my phone. My phone is rooted and I do have safestrap (and busybox). I backed up everything on my microSD card. I also have the g900AUCU2AND3 firmware on my phone. In addition, I deleted some but not all AT&T bloatware, which I want back. Lastly, for some reason the "add call button" during my calls is missing and was replaced with a "record" button I think this was because of me playing around with xposed. I deleted xposed framework as well as wanam and tried everything to get the "add call button" back but I couldn't. Thus, I just want to go back to stock to fix all these issues. I just have a few questions before I proceed just to make sure I'm not doing anything wrong.
1) If I flash the AP, CP and CSC files will I achieve 100% stock with bloatware?
2) Will this return my "add call button"?
3) Is it as simple as just using odin 3.09 and flashing the AP, CP, and CSC files?
4) I also understand that this will take me back to G900AUCU1ANCE but will I be able to do an OTA do go to G900AUCU2AND3?
5) Is there anything else I need to know to prevent my phone from bricking!
Sorry for the long post but I am fairly new to this stuff and don't want mess anything up!

[How-To] Update to G900A_OF3 - 5.0 and KeepRoot

**You can begin the following process from any Build/ROM but you must already have Root Access**
**Required** FlashFire - Play BETA - PREVIEW
Downloads:
- G900A_OF3_Stock_Rooted_ROM
- G900A_OF3_Stock_Rooted_Deodexed_ROM
Previous Builds
- G900A_OF2_Stock_Rooted_ROM
- G900A_OF2_Stock_DeOdexed_ROM
Set your screen timeout setting to 10 mins before beginning!
1. Place the ROM onto your device (use either internal or ext-sdcard).
2. Open the FlashFire app and "Agree" to the Terms and Conditions.
3. Press "(+)" twice to bring up the "Actions" menu.
4. Press "Flash Zip or OTA" and locate and select the ROM. Leave "Auto-mount" unchecked under the "Options" menu and press the checkmark to continue.
5. From the main menu Uncheck all options under "EverRoot" and set "Reboot" setting to *"Download."
6. Press the lightning bolt then "Ok" to begin the **flash .
7. Once the flash is complete and the device reboots into "Download" mode, flash the G900A_OA1_Bootloader using Odin's PDA/AP slot.
*If you are already on the OA1 bootloader, set "Reboot" setting to "Normal" and skip Step 7.
**The screen will turn black then display the contents of your system before beginning the flash. FlashFire will pause for about 1 minute while flashing the "system" partition.
Once complete your device will reboot and pause on the AT&T splash screen for about 1 - 2 minutes (10 - 15 mins for DeOdexed version) before completely rebooting. Done!
Tip: for blazing fast speed turn off animations from Developer Options and reboot!
Known Issues:
- None!
Optional:
- G900A_OF3_TetherAddOn
- G900A_OF2_TetherAddOn (Flash using FlashFire's "Flash zip or ota" option).
- G900A_OC4-OF2_Batch_DeBloater (Customizable)
Notes:
1. The above process will not affect your Knox Warranty Flag.
2. The process will update your Modem, Non-hlos, System, Kernel, and Stock Recovery. The bootloader will not be updated to allow for downgrading to previous firmware versions.
3. No need to wipe prior to flashing! The ROM will automatically perform a factory data reset.
4. If you do not already have root access (or to unbrick) you must flash the G900A_Downgrade_to_NCE.tar using Odin's PDA/AP slot (Caution! Do not flash if you have taken the OC4, OF2, or OF3 ota updates) and root with TowelRoot, before continuing with the above process.
5. To learn more about FlashFire's capabilities on locked bootloader devices see here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=60070810&postcount=2

You done it again. Great job

dirtydodge said:
You done it again. Great job
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heads-up.....the deodexed version seems crazy fast right out of the gate!

muniz_ri said:
Heads-up.....the deodexed version seems crazy fast right out of the gate!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good deal. I'll have to try it maybe next week. I'm busy all weekend plus I'm running TMS5 right now. But kind of a flashaholic ha.

Learned my lesson on taking OTAs with my old GS3. Been reading on another thread good many people leaped on this one too. SMH. So many warnings against doing so... And we didn't even have to wait that long because... YOU DA MAN!

xCAVEMANx said:
Learned my lesson on taking OTAs with my old GS3. Been reading on another thread good many people leaped on this one too. SMH. So many warnings against doing so... And we didn't even have to wait that long because... YOU DA MAN!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks and the worst part for those that took the OF2 ota is their BL qfuse counter was incremented another notch meaning if they softbrick they are locked out of even this file to unbrick: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=61402468
Their only recourse is BestBuy or an ATT store.

Muniz_ri = Awesome...Thanx Bro
It's unfortunate that AT&T once again failed to deliver a full update....
Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

Is there anything in this update that makes the hassle of setting all my **** back up again worth it?

Att has went to damned far... it appears they are trying to stop us from even being able to use odin at all. The qfuse thing is getting on my nerves. I will not be getting another att branded phone. I have learned my lesson on that for sure.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using XDA Free mobile app

fyi...there was a problem with the deodexed ROM. It updated modem and recovery but not system....oops. Will upload correct ROM.

adam_ky said:
Att has went to damned far... it appears they are trying to stop us from even being able to use odin at all. The qfuse thing is getting on my nerves. I will not be getting another att branded phone. I have learned my lesson on that for sure.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Off topic but their measures seem to be intended to stop cell phone theft. They have implemented a pswd before the device can be factory reset which would be useless if downgrading to get around it were allowed.

muniz_ri said:
Off topic but their measures seem to be intended to stop cell phone theft. They have implemented a pswd before the device can be factory reset which would be useless if downgrading to get around it were allowed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So with this new update, a password is required to reset?
Not trying to get even further off topic but isn't the imei number enough to stop theft and reuse? I mean if an imei is bad.. it's bad

adam_ky said:
So with this new update, a password is required to reset?
Not trying to get even further off topic but isn't the imei number enough to stop theft and reuse? I mean if an imei is bad.. it's bad
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, this build gives you an option to require a pswd before a fdr can be performed.

Tethering addon added to OP.

Ahhh... Was about to download the deOdexed version after getting all my backups in order, and things cleaned up. Noticed you pulled it... Hate to ask, but how long till it finishes uploading? Trying to multitask and schedule my running around. No big deal just curious. Do your thing. Thanks for all the good work.

xCAVEMANx said:
Ahhh... Was about to download the deOdexed version after getting all my backups in order, and things cleaned up. Noticed you pulled it... Hate to ask, but how long till it finishes uploading? Trying to multitask and schedule my running around. No big deal just curious. Do your thing. Thanks for all the good work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe 5 mins.
EDIT: it's up now...

Those first ~20 people that downloaded the deodexed rom last night, check your build number in "about phone." Chances are you are still on OC4.

muniz_ri said:
Those first ~20 people that downloaded the deodexed rom last night, check your build number in "about phone." Chances are you are still on OC4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the quick update! I was one of the ones who downloaded the deodexed build immediately right after you posted the files & I was coming back to ask why my phone wasn't wiped & I was still on OC4.
Great job, muniz!

Ok, I just want to make sure I can use this without any hiccups. I hope not to get flamed about it but here it goes. I have SM-G900A AT&T S5. I am on 4.4.2 and it is rooted with towelroot. The build number i have is G900AUCU2ANG3. Can I use this method to upgrade to Lollipop with root? I just don't want to brick it or anything. Thanks in advance.

D1v1d3d said:
Ok, I just want to make sure I can use this without any hiccups. I hope not to get flamed about it but here it goes. I have SM-G900A AT&T S5. I am on 4.4.2 and it is rooted with towelroot. The build number i have is G900AUCU2ANG3. Can I use this method to upgrade to Lollipop with root? I just don't want to brick it or anything. Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, and I just updated the instructions in the OP that make the process clearer.

CPL1 Firmware/ Rom Stock Plus

CPL1 Stock Plus Rom​
I would just like to share an enhanced version of stock note 4 with the only "foreign" app being the grace InCallUI mainly because I have yet to locate a guide on how to make all the buttons layout correctly and there is also very minor cosmetic changes (removed words from lock screen and extended the drop-down panel to go all the way across the screen). All features and modifications were done by me using guides from @Kamy, @ikrom, @jovy23, @asc1977, @EMSpilot, @tdunham, @daxgirl, @tkari4, @Hani K., @Misterxtc and the InCallUI ported by @Albe95. Last but certainly not least, all this was made possible with @ASSAYYED's great rom kitchen and @Ticklefish's Tickle my Android.
FEATURES
Stock kernel
Rooted
Busybox
Zip-Aligned
Deodexed
Toolbox Enabled
Flashlight in notification panel
5-way Reboot
Native Tethering
Loud Volume Warning Disabled
Brought back "once and always" buttons
Call Recording Enabled
6 in the Hotseat Launcher
TW Swipe Left Shortcut
Viper4Android - credits to @viper520
Vol up to turn on flashlight
Signatures Disabled
Write to Ext. Sd with Tibu
4 way Multi window
All apps Multi Window
CPL1 Safe Firmware Upgrade
Partial Firmware courtesy of @Misterxtc
Link to Full Firmware
ROM LINK
HERE
Flash this as well for viper- Viper SUpolicy

1.

Thank you Kevin!
Does Odin "CPL1 Safe Firmware Upgrade" include the modem?

1Xfan said:
Thank you Kevin!
Does Odin "CPL1 Safe Firmware Upgrade" include the modem?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, the firmware includes everything except recovery and aboot. Also a few things I forgot to mention, the switch to turn on volume up for flashlight is in the display settings and to set the apps for toolbox you just long press on the toolbox icon (when activated) and then drag it up to the edit section at the top of the screen. Sorry guys I'm terrible at writing the info and summary for these roms but hopefully I can get it figured out one day.

kevintm78 said:
Yes, the firmware includes everything except recovery and aboot. Also a few things I forgot to mention, the switch to turn on volume up for flashlight is in the display settings and to set the apps for toolbox you just long press on the toolbox icon (when activated) and then drag it up to the edit section at the top of the screen. Sorry guys I'm terrible at writing the info and summary for these roms but hopefully I can get it figured out one day.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand. Please clarify for me...
I'm on pj2 unlocked/rooted. I want to stay unlocked/rooted. Do I flash the "partial".zip, or Odin the "full" ? :fingers-crossed:
When I read through hsbdr's post's, I must have 5 or six tabs open
I prefer instructions simple, and retail and Dev posts/instructions separate from each other. As well as return to "unrooted" or "keep root" posts. Many have accidentally locked their BL as a result. There is no reason to include a "return to stock-locked" link in with a custom rooted ROM post/links. Uhg
Thank you for keeping it simple for us, and all your work!

1Xfan said:
I understand. Thanks for clarifying :fingers-crossed:
When I read through hsbdr's post's, I must have 5 or six tabs open
I prefer instructions simple, and retail and Dev instructions separate!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah it does get a little confusing. That's the main reason I just posted my own link just to make sure I'm not linking to the wrong thing. Fun fact while testing all this out, I was able to flash pj2 roms while I was on the cpl1 firmware and everything worked. I just tested one rom but it seems like once you upgrade your firmware you may not have to downgrade again if you want to go back to another rom.

kevintm78 said:
Yeah it does get a little confusing. That's the main reason I just posted my own link just to make sure I'm not linking to the wrong thing. Fun fact while testing all this out, I was able to flash pj2 roms while I was on the cpl1 firmware and everything worked. I just tested one rom but it seems like once you upgrade your firmware you may not have to downgrade again if you want to go back to another rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oooh really! So probably there is nothing new in the upgrade only that it's un-downgradable:silly:

1Xfan said:
oooh really! So probably there is nothing new in the upgrade only that it's un-downgradable:silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The first couple times I tested a firmware that I made, I was terrified of locking my bl. I flashed the one I posted and then tested for downgrade and all is good, but it doesn't seem to be necessary to downgrade again. As far as differences between them the only thing I noticed was more security stuff and some different bloatware.

Forgive me...
So the "full firmware link" (download file name: "cpl1_tar_32bit_ext4") doesn't include the recovery and aboot files(?)

1Xfan said:
Forgive me...
So the "full firmware"> link doesn't include the recovery and aboot files(?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's correct. If you flash it and let it boot you'll have your custom recovery, unlocked bootloader, no root, no busybox, cpl1 modem/kernel, and odexed system. That way if someone wants pure stock they can just flash the supersu file and your set.

She's running great for me! I installed xposed and oscar kernel and it's stable as a rock! Any chance of the additional grace apps - email, contacts, etc? Great work man!

CrazyCram said:
She's running great for me! I installed xposed and oscar kernel and it's stable as a rock! Any chance of the additional grace apps - email, contacts, etc? Great work man!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just tried the email zip at this post and it worked. When I get off work I'll test those others. They all should work but if you don't want to be the guinnie pig I can do it.
So oscar works? I thought it might need an update but that's good to know.

Yes, Oscar 13 works great. I'll give the grace apps a try - thanks again!

kevintm78 said:
I just tried the email zip at this post and it worked. When I get off work I'll test those others. They all should work but if you don't want to be the guinnie pig I can do it.
So oscar works? I thought it might need an update but that's good to know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For some reason after flashing grace email, I see high battery usage for email 19-30%. Tried clearing data but still see the drain. Am I missing something?

sam298 said:
For some reason after flashing grace email, I see high battery usage for email 19-30%. Tried clearing data but still see the drain. Am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, I only use that app when testing it and I haven't noticed any battery drain, but I can't say I've ever checked either. I wonder if it just needs to settle in. Maybe someone that uses it more can chime in to see if it's an issue for everyone. If you want to, see if after a while it goes back to normal range and if it doesn't try to get a log and we can see what we can come up with.

Hello @kevintm78. Need a little help. I just odin'd the full firmware and now my phone won't boot. I get unfortunately System UI has stopped. I was on CPJ1 before I did this. Should I just try to restore a backup? Thanks

dhplap said:
Hello @kevintm78. Need a little help. I just odin'd the full firmware and now my phone won't boot. I get unfortunately System UI has stopped. I was on CPJ1 before I did this. Should I just try to restore a backup? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If Odin completed it should have at least updated your firmware. If that's the case you could just go ahead and flash the rom. All the files from the full firmware get overwritten anyway. Just make sure you do a complete wipe (everything but your sd/Ext sd) and you should be good to go.

kevintm78 said:
If Odin completed it should have at least updated your firmware. If that's the case you could just go ahead and flash the rom. All the files from the full firmware get overwritten anyway. Just make sure you do a complete wipe (everything but your sd/Ext sd) and you should be good to go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. Yes I just restored a backup just fine and it's also showing my baseband is now CPL1. Now I'm going to flash your rom so I can have stock whenever I want it. Thank you for your time and help. And for the upgrade.

@kevintm78...thank you for this. I had lost 4g somewhere in all my flashing. I tried reflashing partial firmware and even restoring backups wouldnt give me 4g again.I was getting ready to go through the entire lock, unlock, root process again when I found this thread. I downloaded the full firmware in the op, flashed with flashfire, rebooted into recovery, wiped dalvik, data, cache, and rebooted system. I now have 4g back. I made a nandroid of stock, and then clean flashed LOS and still have 4g. So thankful to you!!

gcounts said:
@kevintm78...thank you for this. I had lost 4g somewhere in all my flashing. I tried reflashing partial firmware and even restoring backups wouldnt give me 4g again.I was getting ready to go through the entire lock, unlock, root process again when I found this thread. I downloaded the full firmware in the op, flashed with flashfire, rebooted into recovery, wiped dalvik, data, cache, and rebooted system. I now have 4g back. I made a nandroid of stock, and then clean flashed LOS and still have 4g. So thankful to you!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah man, I'm a bit of a flashaholic too and was having the same issues a while back when experimenting with data fixes and thought that I fried my sim card. Like you I tried the partial first but the only thing that got my 4g back was flashing a full stock firmware. :good: