1. Install FindMeSMS on the Windows Mobile phone to be tracked.
2. Send SMS to the tracked phone. SMS message must have this code in it: fm?
3. Receive SMS reply. Click on the link in SMS reply to display map showing location.
Details:
Free. Simple and Easy to use.
Can be PIN protected so only those who know the PIN can find out the location.
The "fm?" is not case sensitive. Fm? or FM? etc. will work as well.
If PIN protection is enabled then the query SMS needs to inlude the PIN. eg: fm?1234
If GPS is not available then FindMeSMS replies with link that includes the CellID (telephone tower) information,
and clicking on the link in the SMS message will bring up a map showing location of the phone tower
with which the phone is communicating.
Does not drain the battery. Only starts when SMS received, and stops running after sending response.
Restarts automatically if phone is power cycled.
Person whose location is queried is not alerted that their location is queried.
---------------
Developed on HTC Touch Diamond 2 running Win6.5.
Let me know any comments that you may have or any improvement suggestions!
Adam
Change Log:
Beta2
FIX - prevent power down during long GPS acquisition on some phones.
FIX - PIN protection
FIX - install locations
Beta3
FIX - GPS co-ordinates normalized to standard used by google maps
FIX - returned link format changed to make it clickable on more phones
Beta4
CHG - Logging to files in /ProgramFiles/FindMeSms/ directory is now enabled by default.
NEW - the "fm?" magic word can be changed using Registry key HKLM\Software\Ablesoft\FindMeSMS\magicword
Beta5
CHG - Log files now saved in My Documents folder for easy retrieval.
Beta6
FIX - Using registered version of smartassembly.
Beta7
FIX - Beta6 had problems working on many phones. Beta7 hopefully fixes this.
Beta8
CHG - traces now include list of other SMS interception rules active on the system
great app
thanks
this app has to be installed on the remote/another phone correct?
I believe that you install this on your phone, then if you lose your phone or it gets stolen, you can SMS it from another phone or the web and your lost/stolen phone will return it's coordinates in the form of an SMS message reply to where ever you messaged your phone from.
Simple and fast, thanks man.
does this work with both cdma and gsm? and are you planning on releasing the source code?
It seems to work, I got 2 SMS with the position of my phone, one with GPS ans one with CellID.
The only point: GPS was located in the eastern part of Russia near the chinese border, CellID located my phone in Nigeria.
But perhaps it's because I tried it within a building. Will try it tomorrow on my way to work. Hopefully with a correct postion
this app has to be installed on the remote/another phone correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has to be installed on the phone which is to be located. Then the 'fm?' SMSs are sent to that phone.
does this work with both cdma and gsm?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the CDMA phone has a GPS on it then the GPS based location should work.
The CellID that is used to locate the telephone tower is used by GSM only, so tower based location would not work on CDMA. Never tested this software on a CDMA phone yet.
and are you planning on releasing the source code?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not at this stage. Maybe later.
GPS was located in the eastern part of Russia near the chinese border,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a bit strange. The co-ordinates supplied by the GPS system are quoted in the clickable http link in the reply SMS without any processing by the app (aside from some conversion to string trimming), so its puzzling why the app forwarded these strange co-ordinates.
There is a way to turn on logging for this app - in HKLM\Software\Ablesoft\FindMeSMS, set log to 1 and then you would see logs created when SMS is received. If you can post the logs then we can see what happening when the SMSs are processed. Can you tell us what phone you are using?
CellID located my phone in Nigeria.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The www.findmesms.com php script uses Google's CellID->GPS location database, so the GPS location reported there would be straight from Google.
Can you quote what was the http link with the CellID details? A trace from the app would also let us see exactly what is going on here.
Beta 2 uploaded. See top post in thread for DL.
CellID-Link: http://www.findmesms.com/wmb1.php?cid=29133,10249,262,1
But the link isn't clickable (I'm using SE Xperia with WM 6.1)
I changed the registry but where do I find the logs?
Edit: okay I think i found it. If it's logService.txt it has the following stored:
145931 S --------------------------
145932 pwr set mode -1
145932 pwr set mode -1 => 1
145932 svc start
145932 svc ril cid=29133, lac=10249, mcc=262, mnc=1, on=T-Mobile D
145932 rx adding to listPendingProcessing
145932 iReadInSmsXmlFilesCount=1
145932 sys ShortestTimeoutInterval=54000
145932 svc GpsStart call
145932 gps start begin
145932 gps start .open call
145932 GPS open begin gpsHandle=0
145932 GPS open end gpsHandle=393216
145932 gps start completed
145932 gps device : QualComm GpsOne Card, version 0.0, devstate=, servstate=
150333 iReadInSmsXmlFilesCount=0
150333 svc Gps timeout err. sending ril.
150333 SendSmsWithRilLink task list count=1
150339 task sent ril sms ril to +491xxxxxx]
150339 task list cleared ril ok
150339 task list count=0
150339 srv.ServiceRun returned
150340 pwr reset mode 0
150340 pwr reset mode 0 => 1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I deleted my phone-number
Tried to locate once again within a building.
Next edit: tried it outside the building. Also installes EopenCellClient, it found the cells with coordinates listet.
The log:
164129 S --------------------------
164129 pwr set mode -1
164130 pwr set mode -1 => 1
164130 svc start
164131 svc ril cid=46781, lac=10249, mcc=262, mnc=1, on=T-Mobile D
164132 rx adding to listPendingProcessing
164132 iReadInSmsXmlFilesCount=1
164132 sys ShortestTimeoutInterval=54000
164132 svc GpsStart call
164132 gps start begin
164132 gps start .open call
164132 GPS open begin gpsHandle=0
164132 GPS open end gpsHandle=1179648
164132 gps start completed
164132 gps device : QualComm GpsOne Card, version 0.0, devstate=, servstate=
164133 gps loc inv ts=1
164134 gps loc inv ts=2
164135 gps loc inv ts=3
164136 gps loc inv ts=4
164137 gps loc inv ts=5
164138 gps loc inv ts=6
164139 gps loc inv ts=7
164140 gps loc inv ts=8
164141 gps loc inv ts=9
164142 gps loc inv ts=10
164143 ok|18.11.09 16:41:43|0|lat|50,67401573|lon|7,17768015|head|152,6|satsol|8|satcount|8|endtime|18.11.09 15:41:44|
164143 gps stop begin
164143 gps stop removing event handlers
164143 gps stop .close call
164144 GPS close begin gpsHandle=1179648
164144 GPS close GPSCloseDevice call
164144 GPS close stopHandle=-337549942
164144 GPS close stopHandle EventModify
164144 GPS close handles
164144 GPS closed newLocationHandle
164144 GPS closed deviceStateChangedHandle
164144 GPS closed stopHandle
164144 GPS close end
164144 gps stop .close returned
164144 gps stop completed
164144 gps loc after ok
164144 iReadInSmsXmlFilesCount=0
164144 SendSmsWithGpsLink task list count=1
164151 task sent gps sms to [+491xxx] query [fm?]
164152 task list cleared gps ok
164152 task list count=0
164152 srv.ServiceRun returned
164152 pwr reset mode 0
164153 pwr reset mode 0 => 1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GPS-position also far, far east of my current location
Thanks for the traces.
The latitude/longtitude reported by the GPS on the phone was:
lat=50,67401573
lon=7,17768015
Most likely what is happening here is that the "," that is used as a decimal separator mixes up the WWW php script. WWW site expects "." as a decimal separator.
Is the location quoted above correct?
Just to confirm, can you tell us what was the actual link set back in the SMS message? (we will add this tracing to log in next version)
Pretty sure we'll just need to change the "," to a "." and the web page will then show correct location.
Will post new software version in few hours.
http://findmesms.com/wmb1.php?gps=50,674016,7,177680 was the link.
http://findmesms.com/wmb1.php?gps=50.674016,7.177680 is indeed correct.
Another thing: I believe that when having the app running (permanently on) the battery drains like hell although no commands are sent. Just yesterday evening my battery had only 5% left, although I left office with 100% a few hours eralier.
I have set it now to Off just to have a look at the battery status tomorrow morning. Will give feedback then.
Have just uploaded Beta3. This version ensures the GPS co-ordinates are supplied to Google Maps in the format expected by Google. Please see first post in this thread for download link.
FindMeSMS app should not run all the time. The app is started by Windows in response to an incoming SMS. The app consists of two .EXEs (fmsSmsIntercept.exe and fmsService.exe) and both .EXEs exit once the SMS reply is sent. The GPS is also closed before the app exits. The uploaded trace shows that GPS closing on your device was done with no errors.
After the SMS was sent out the phone then the phone then should have gone into its sleep mode (after some timeout - usually about a minute) - if no other app was running on the phone.
If you do find that there is battery drain on your device then we may need to look at this closer to see what the possible cause could be.
Percentage stayed the same over night.
Will install Beta3 and have a look at the battery status...
Setting FindMe to be OFF in the Config screen basically removes the SMS interception. Setting it to ON just adds the SMS interception entry so Windows starts FindMeSMS and passes to it the SMS message.
There is no app left running if FindMe is set to ON in the Config screen. Pressing the "Save and Exit" will just enable the interception and then the Config app and the app that enables interception exit. (fmsSmsIntercept.exe is used to perform all interception related tasks and that app does the actual enabling of interception).
You should be able to confirm that no apps are left running by using any of the number of task managers available that list the apps currently running on the device.
Guess the two things to look for would be batter drain after enabling FindMeSMS and then the battery drain after FindMeSMS responds to the SMS query. Logs show that GPS device was shutdown OK after SMS reply was sent - but maybe what is happening on your system is that the drivers replied that GPS is shut down OK, but the GPS device is still actually draining power?
adam2022 said:
but maybe what is happening on your system is that the drivers replied that GPS is shut down OK, but the GPS device is still actually draining power?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
May be, will have a look at it.
I just got a SMS with CID-Location, doesn't seems to work, The link is alsomst the same as yesterday: http://findmesms.com/wmb3.php?cid=46781:10249:262:1
It looks like Google is returning location info for some phone towers only (eg: this works: http://www.findmesms.com/wmb3.php?cid=16:204:703:20987 )
Not sure at this stage why this is. Whether their database is incomplete or if there is another reason. Will try to look into this.
Have now changed the website to print out an error message if Google returns an 'unknown tower' error, rather then displaying map at 0,0 co-ordinates as before.
Does not work on a TP2
This program does NOT perform any of its intended functionality on a TP2 regardless of the settings. Nice idea , maybe someone else can create a version of this that works...
can see this map
http://www.findmesms.com/wmb3.php?cid=33316:310:268:6
in portugal does nor work??
this is just creepy. whoeever uses this is kinda creepy
unless ur trying to locate a stolen or lost phone
This program does NOT perform any of its intended functionality on a TP2 regardless of the settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a way to turn on logging for this app - in HKLM\Software\Ablesoft\FindMeSMS, set log to 1 and then you would see logs created (in /ProgramFiles/FinsMeSms/ when SMS is received. If you can post the logs then we can see what happening when the SMSs are processed.
Looks like it may be a good idea to turn on logging by default in the Beta versions so these logs can be readily posted.
can see this map [link] in portugal does nor work??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like that that CellID is not in Google's database either...
Related
Update: Written up here due to PPCGeeks being down.
Version: 0.1 Test 1
BAF's GPS Launcher allows you to run GPS software that is not coded for the GPS intermediary driver without running Google Maps, Holodux, QuickGPS, etc in the background. On the first run, you will configure the path to your GPS program's exe file, and the timeout.
The path to the exe should be the FULL path (ex: \Program Files\iGo\iGo.exe). The timeout specifies how long the launcher will keep the GPS port opened for the software you are launching. The application has to open on Com 4 (9600 baud) before the timeout for it to remain active. After the timeout, the launcher will close it's open GPS ports and exit, leaving just your GPS software running with GPS working.
If you need to reconfigure, either edit \bafgpsconfig.txt (first line is program, second line is timeout) or delete said text file to have the program show the configuration GUI. Make sure you click the save button on the config page, as that is the only way it will save (out of me overlooking the close button trying to get this released).
The exe can be found here. Just copy it anyplace on your device and run it.
Bug reports and suggestions are nice, but future versions of this app will not be in the form it is now. It will eventually become a background service that opens the GPS as necessary, but for now it is just a launcher.
ppcgeeks is jacked any place else to ge this app?
danewguy said:
ppcgeeks is jacked any place else to ge this app?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that'd be sweet. I've been trying to get this for the past couple of hours.
yea can u gimme the name of the app or put a link on this site bc ppcgeek is down
http://code.baf.cc/bafgpsv01t.exe is the link didnt try it yet
work really well for tomtom
Updated the OP with the basic gist of what was posted at ppcgeeks.
Great work Baffles, can you make the app keep running until at least 2-3 satellite constantly show up instead of 20 second. The app should keep run in the background when destinate gps app (tomtom) is currently and when tomtom close, it close it self as well. The reason I ask for this is when I turn off the screen and turn back on the screen while tomtom is running, the gps connection is lost that cannot come backup.
Does not work for me. I set up the config file to point to the installed location of Tom Tom and timeout set to 60 seconds.
I started the Bafgps app and after a few seconds it launches Tom Tom, I have setup TT to use other NMEA GPS receiver with 4800 baud rate and COM4
TT always displays No GPS Device, after a second try with bafgpsv01t the system locks up and I need to soft reset.
I followed the GPS setup on the titan from this post http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=363431
what gives? No chip on my XV6800?
Scratch the not having a gps on my titan i got it to work with GPS viewer 1.5
AstronusX said:
Great work Baffles, can you make the app keep running until at least 2-3 satellite constantly show up instead of 20 second. The app should keep run in the background when destinate gps app (tomtom) is currently and when tomtom close, it close it self as well. The reason I ask for this is when I turn off the screen and turn back on the screen while tomtom is running, the gps connection is lost that cannot come backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The new version will be able to keep GPS up the whole time an app is running. I should have an updated version out sometime late tonight.
Looks and sounds great Baffles... We look forward to the new release!
Software version
GSM Radio: 1.02.25.27
Protocol version: 52.39a.25.22H
CE version: 1.94.502.3
OS build: Windows Mobile 6.1 AKU 1.2.6 Build 19971
IOT-FOTA-PU-6: Device is in active voice call when update postpone reminder Timer Expires Issue:Before ending the voice call, the Install update screen pops up.
IOT-FOTA-PU-7: Device is in SMS composer when update postpone
IOT-FOTA-NOT-2: Firmware update notification from the server when device is in SMS composer. Issue: Install update notification pops up on top of the SMS composer
HTC P4600 (1.59.502.1) IM - no idle screen presence icons
Programs page icons are missing identifying headers
Screen Out of Sync
HTC P4600 locked up
Support for Kodiak Voice Messages (2G)
HTC P4600_Rom_1.65.502.3 IM Win Live:User receives an error message while sending IM to a Contact Not on the Contact List.
Client not stable and crash randomly, ultimately can not restart.
PTT Button Assignment
Text Auto-populate and Auto-correct issues
HTC-P4600_vs-1.90.502.2 - MTE 1.12.6.1. List root directory - Failed, Security Exception expected, A Prompt
HTC P4600 - Unable to setup IMAP email
HTC-P4600_vs-1.90.502.2- MTE Security Preferred 1.9.2.x - Incorrect Grouping
HTC P4600 - Device will self power down
Default Email auto-sig correction
Device powers down and will not power back up until battery is pulled
HTC P4600_Rom_1.90.502.2 : Opera Browser doesnot resolve http://home url correctly
HTC P4600_Rom_1.90.502.2 IM Win Live : Getting an error on trying to add contact to the contact list.
Browser opens blank page along with selected bookmark
Device offers session permission for HTTP connection in unsigned app
Java HTTP connection is unproxied
Clicking 'X' exit icon closes Java app without prompting user
Browser HTTP accept header missing required elements
Mobile Banking app goes directly to password screen upon opening
Mobile Banking app locks up when incoming call rejected or terminated at source
Heard Ring After Answering Call
Slide out keyboard functionality issue
Third-party signed app allowed full access to location information
HTC 4600 -- PTT has no tx audio
HTC 4605 - Opera browser will not work over WiFi
HTC P4600 - Menu in email tab is not functioning
CV -- Incoming Text msg disconnects CV
CV -- bad user experience on start of clip
TouchFlo UI Email Screen (Portrait Mode): Options under "Menu" aren't working
TouchFlo UI: AccuWeather link doesn't work
No version number in JAM JAR retreive header UA string
Windows Mobile Policy Settings
With WiFi connection, Opera would not function when trying several connections (yahoo.com, google.com, etc.) IE worked fine
Text msgs menu option
DownLoad me
great
thanks
Can someone extract Radio please?
athanaso77 said:
Can someone extract Radio please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Downloading now, i'll post radio later...
Cheers
Thank you very much for your overall contribution jcespi2005!
Yeah a Radio extract would be cool..maybe it will improve GPS and reception in the US on AT&T.
athanaso77 said:
Thank you very much for your overall contribution jcespi2005!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RapidShare is too slow toady
I will be late in placing the file.... sorry guys
Cheers
EDIT: Uploading...
Added details to the wiki, posted the radio in the wiki also.
Completed the various details. Enjoy
Mirror for the Radio upgrade only...
http://rapidshare.com/files/148413433/RAPH_RUU_Radio_1.02.25.27.rar
Cheers
Thanks guys - just flashed the radio and will see how the gps is.
Everyone talks AT&T here. Does anyone use T-Mobile? Will this radio work on T-Mobile network?
any feedback on the radio?
i am more interested in the radio than the OS...
Ok. Flashed. Does not make much difference to me. I have not noticed if it is any better or worse yet. And well, I should say no 3G for me, unless there is the way to make the TP work with 1700 Mhz.
Over here, reception hasn't improved. I hope it's drains less from my battery.
jcespi2005 said:
Mirror for the Radio upgrade only...
http://rapidshare.com/files/148413433/RAPH_RUU_Radio_1.02.25.27.rar
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thx!
gracias majo =)
downloading radio only now. I use AT&T here in the U.S.
installed it last night. the reception seems to be the same. same with the battery usage. the only thing i couldn't make it work was the gps. i tried different options and I think is a radio issue. worked well with the .05 radio of the diamond and the .16 from cingular.
hope this helps.
This Radio didn't agree with me.
Had trouble locking on to satellites, for some reason the HSDPA was constantly on and it gave my phone an annoying bug where the busy animation constantly showed when I started IGO.
Haven't noticed any changes to the signal strength.
I am on Three and in the UK by the way.
moisesz said:
installed it last night. the reception seems to be the same. same with the battery usage. the only thing i couldn't make it work was the gps. i tried different options and I think is a radio issue. worked well with the .05 radio of the diamond and the .16 from cingular.
hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. No gps
My GPS works fine after installing this radio. I think installing the radio resets the GPS like new again. I ran GPS Test with cold start and it locked onto 10 satellites within a couple minutes. I pulled Googles maps up and it got a lock in 15seconds with 10-12 sattelites.
Download GPS test
download quickGPS data again
start GPS Test with cold start and let it lock on to sattelites for about 2-5minutes.
close GPS test
start up your GPS program i.e. google maps and you should get a lock within 15seconds.
So far I have not noticed any difference between my stock radio and this one. Haven't really had a chance to test out GPS lag yet though to see if its better.
I guess I'll hang on to this radio until a better one comes out.
I had the feature in other roms that would give me an approximate location on Google Maps almost instantly when it was opened. Within 2400 meters or so. With the new NFSFAN rom this is not the case. It finds GPS lock, but until then it has no idea where I am. The weather location thing works so aGPS should be working, just not working in Google Maps.
Not sure if it will work in your rom, or even be the problem. I assume you are talking about tower based location.
The rom I was using it worked then suddenly stopped after upgrading. I compared the registries and found that for some reason some keys in the registry werent being created. I added these and it started working again.
HKLM>software>google>googlemaps
supports_extended_ril value=1
(this will enable location based off of cell phone tower)
supports_extended_wifi value=1
(this will enable location based off of your wifi access point)
You will need to restart google maps for it to take effect.
hope it helps.
deepsix_69 said:
Not sure if it will work in your rom, or even be the problem. I assume you are talking about tower based location.
The rom I was using it worked then suddenly stopped after upgrading. I compared the registries and found that for some reason some keys in the registry werent being created. I added these and it started working again.
HKLM>software>google>googlemaps
supports_extended_ril value=1
(this will enable location based off of cell phone tower)
supports_extended_wifi value=1
(this will enable location based off of your wifi access point)
You will need to restart google maps for it to take effect.
hope it helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what is your distribution_channel value set to? I have it at gmm-htc trying to see if that is preventing me from connecting to the gps towers.
i don't have HKLM>software>google>googlemaps
I have: HKLM>software>google>cll>permission list>services.exe
I put those values in cll since there was nothing in the other two and it did not work.
I'm also trying to get GPS to work on NFSFAN's 1.05 ROM (either aGPS or GPS). I don't have the registry keys mentioned above either.
I'm on the latest USCC radio.
phalkon30 said:
I'm also trying to get GPS to work on NFSFAN's 1.05 ROM (either aGPS or GPS). I don't have the registry keys mentioned above either.
I'm on the latest USCC radio.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have the right COM port and baud rate set up? If your GPS isn't working right, you may have to manually set up the hardware parameters. Try to use QuickGPS/HTC GPSTool/VisualGPS or whatever GPS tool NFS cooked in his rom and see if it can connect and get a few locks.
Seannoxious said:
what is your distribution_channel value set to? I have it at gmm-htc trying to see if that is preventing me from connecting to the gps towers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
??? is that a key also for google maps, I dont have one like that. I just have the two mentioned keys (after I added them) along with one other key.
Have you tried adding the above keys and see if it helps?
Keep in mind, I am not currently using the same rom as you, its just a problem I noticed with my rom and the keys fixed it.
egzthunder1 said:
Do you have the right COM port and baud rate set up? If your GPS isn't working right, you may have to manually set up the hardware parameters. Try to use QuickGPS/HTC GPSTool/VisualGPS or whatever GPS tool NFS cooked in his rom and see if it can connect and get a few locks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I could be wrong, but I believe you only need to setup the com and baud rate when using an external gps or using your phone as a gps for something else (ie computer)
Good luck!
deepsix_69 said:
I could be wrong, but I believe you only need to setup the com and baud rate when using an external gps or using your phone as a gps for something else (ie computer)
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not necessarily. If the software that you are using doesn't detect the hardware right away, you have to manually set it up. I happened to my Fuze when I had it. I had iGo8 and had to input the settings by hand. Same thing with my Vogue.
waiting for this one
I have been waiting for this to be discussed. I am on NFSFAN's ROM on verizon and google maps is not working. I will try the above reg hacks and report back
Adding those two reg keys did not work for me. Deepsix who is your carrier?
Just on a note. I have the latest NFS and this feature works for me in Google maps, even though I have the phone disabled and the Data connection turned off as well. I use my Touch as a WiFi VoIP device only.
When I start I get an approximate location, and when I click on the little blue dot it gives me my locale within 100 Meters.
I also did not install any of the providor specific cabs that are in the first post on the NFSFAN thread.
It does work with wifi but not over the towers which is what is really useful. Good to know that it does at least work with wifi though.
Try the provisioning.cab file for your carrier?
At the risk of offending and stating the obvious did you guys with the GPS problems install the carrier specific provissioning .cab in order to get GPS working?
If not, try it:
the attached files on the first post of the thread titled " *Updated March 5th* NFSFAN's Custom WM6.5.5 ROMs "
I'm not allowed to post links yet.
fenixrising123 said:
Adding those two reg keys did not work for me. Deepsix who is your carrier?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That wont help you, its a very small regional carrier. "inland cellular" I have never been able to get google maps to work even on a stock phone from them. Adding those two reg entries was the only way I could get it to work for me.
Sorry it didnt work for you. I know how frustrating it can be.
Just to make sure everyone understands, the GPS would always for with the location, but when gps is off its supposed to get its location based off of the cell tower id/wifi router id's Thats what the reg edits did for me. You can tell what your getting your location from becuase of the accuracy. GPS said it was within a couple yard where as tower based it was within a couple miles.
Ok I took my touch pro and flashed the most recent nfsfan rom and tried google maps location. With GPS on, I could get a location, with gps off and wifi on, I could get a location, with gps off and wifi off, using only cellular data I COULDNT get a location.
I closed google maps.
went to regedit and scrolled to
hklm--software--google
for some reason there is not a key titled googlemaps, I am not sure if thats because its baked in the rom or what.
So...
I created a new string under google titled -- googlemaps
under google maps I created a new string value titled supports_extended_ril with a value of 1
I restarted google maps location and with only the cellular data enabled, it gave me a location instantly.
On a side note, there is another key under google titled cll, dont quote me, but I believe thats created for when you enable 'my location' in the sense theme so that your location shows up on the weather tab. I am not sure if you need to enable that also, I did enable it first so if you are still having troubles, try enable that also.
Hope that helps. It seems to work on any rom I have tried it on. Like I said in previous posts, even the stock rom wouldnt give me that location. I dont think it is carrier specific, as if I understand it correctly, google is sent what tower you are using via tower id code, then google compares that to their list of tower locations. Google then send back your approximate location. They also do that with wifi routers.
Let me know if it works for you.
deepsix_69 said:
Ok I took my touch pro and flashed the most recent nfsfan rom and tried google maps location. With GPS on, I could get a location, with gps off and wifi on, I could get a location, with gps off and wifi off, using only cellular data I COULDNT get a location.
I closed google maps.
went to regedit and scrolled to
hklm--software--google
for some reason there is not a key titled googlemaps, I am not sure if thats because its baked in the rom or what.
So...
I created a new string under google titled -- googlemaps
under google maps I created a new string value titled supports_extended_ril with a value of 1
I restarted google maps location and with only the cellular data enabled, it gave me a location instantly.
On a side note, there is another key under google titled cll, dont quote me, but I believe thats created for when you enable 'my location' in the sense theme so that your location shows up on the weather tab. I am not sure if you need to enable that also, I did enable it first so if you are still having troubles, try enable that also.
Hope that helps. It seems to work on any rom I have tried it on. Like I said in previous posts, even the stock rom wouldnt give me that location. I dont think it is carrier specific, as if I understand it correctly, google is sent what tower you are using via tower id code, then google compares that to their list of tower locations. Google then send back your approximate location. They also do that with wifi routers.
Let me know if it works for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the very detailed scientific post. I have not been able to get GPS working on USCC, there is no carrier cab for it.
I didn't realize after setting the registry entry's that you had to turn off the GPS option in google maps. After turning that off it found my "approximate" location very quickly within half a mile or so of where I was (after also editing the registry).
Thanks everybody! It works well enough for me not to care
That worked for me as well. Thanks! I must have been doing it wrong before because that is a more detailed explanation of what was suggested earlier if I am not mistaken. I cannot believe google would screw something so simple up.
Hey guys, girls. This is my first guide, tutorial, attempt to help another with a common Fascinate problem. This happens to be GPS. These are not my ideas, but it helped my GPS so much I just felt compelled to write this and hopefully help others. So in having saying that, full credit goes to this post - [FIX] Updated: GPS Tracking Issues (Optional FIX) For Stock Phones and other various sources. (Found Below)
Please don't hold me responsible if something goes wrong. This may or may not work for you; although, I'm confident it will work with most phone, carriers, roms, and kernels. Obviously if your custom rom has known GPS problems, this is useless. Yet it may not hurt to try.
I would suggest before you do anything make a backup of your current settings. I use ShootMe! app to take screen captures whenever I can of my before/after settings.
My phone is the Telus Samsung Fascinate 3G+ T959D. The changes worked for me on Froyo w/ stock & stock + Voodoo kernels. Also works with the recent Gingerbread 2.3.3 update, stock kernel, only changing the settings that appear in Froyo. Both were rooted, but not too sure if root is required.
I didn't install any apps, scripts, anything to get GPS working. Below I have some extra reading material I've found. It was simply reading for me, no flashing, installing, or file editing.
FROYO
1 - Disable "Use Wireless Networks" | Settings > Location & Security
2 - Enable "Use GPS satellites" | Optional: "Use sensor aiding" (I do use it)
3 - Dial *#*#3214789650#*#* | Stock Dialer usually works best with codes. Menu will auto popup on last '*' input. Entering AGPS Settings is a little different on GB.
[NOTE] If above code don't work, another is *#*#1472365#*#* (2.1?) If you still have problems try entering the code with a single *# - i.e. *#3214789650#* various apps, Root Tools being one, gives access to Angry GPS/A-GPS settings.
4 - Enter "Application Settings" | Did you make a backup??
---| Session Type: Tracking
---| Test Mode: S/W Test
---| Operation Mode: MS-BASED
---| Start Mode: Hot Start
---| GPS Plus: ON
---| Dynamic Accuracy: ON
---| Accuracy: 50M
---| GPS Logging: OFF
Now back out to the previous screen.
5 - Enter "SUPL Settings" | About that backup??
---| Server FQDN Type: Custom Config
---| Server: supl.google.com
---| Server Port: 7276
---| SUPL Secure Socket: OFF
---| AGPS Mode: SUPL
6 - Back out to previous screen, and then continue backing out to close and save the settings.
7 - Power Off Completely. (Until you feel the short vibe)
8 - Turn on phone.
9 - Get a clear line of sight to sky.
10 - Enable "Use Wireless Networks" | Settings > Location & Security
11 - Enter Angry GPS Settings again.
12 - Press "Delete GPS Data"
13 - Press "Get Position Test" | Let your phone sit for about 5 min. without touching anything. Let it lock on too 8+ satellites. Once it does, simply back out and the settings will save.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GINGERBREAD
1 - Disable "Use Wireless Networks" | Settings > Location & Security
2 - Enable "Use GPS satellites" | Optional: "Use sensor aiding" (I do use it)
3 - Dial *#*#3214789650#*#* | Stock Dialer usually works best with codes.
[NOTE] When I enter the above code in GB default dialer it brings me to the "Location & Security" settings screen from Step 1. I fluked into this, to get into the Angry GPS settings you need to Double Press the 'back' button. As if you're double-clicking your mouse button.
4 - Enter "Settings" | Then enter "General Settings"
---| Test Mode: S/W Test
---| Operation Mode: MSBASED
---| Start Mode: Hot Start
---| GPS Plus: ON
---| GPS Logging: OFF
---| Time Out(s): 255
---| Accuracy: 50M
Now back to the previous screen.
5 - Enter "SUPL Settings" |
---| Server FQDN Type: Custom Config
---| Server: supl.google.com
---| Server Port: 7276
---| Server Type: UMTS SLP
---| SUPL Secure Socket: OFF
---| AGPS Mode: SUPL
---| SSL Type: VerSign
6 - Back out to previous screen, and then continue backing out to close and save the settings.
7 - Power Off Completely. (Until you feel the short vibe)
8 - Turn on phone.
9 - Get a clear line of sight to sky.
10 - Enable "Use Wireless Networks" | Settings > Location & Security
11 - Enter Angry GPS Settings again.
12 - Press "Delete GPS Data"
13 - Press "TTFF Test" | Press "Start GPS" Let your phone sit for about 5 min. without touching anything. It will lock on to a few satellites, stop, count to 60 and do the same thing over. I let it do this about 10 times. Press "Stop GPS" and Back out to save.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's it, hopefully you’ll have the success I'm having with GPS. As for testing, I use Co-Pilot, Google Maps, and Google Navigation. With any of the 3 apps I can disable "Use Wireless Networks" and enable "Airplane Mode" and GPS works the same. I do find that Google Maps likes the "Use wireless Networks" enabled. I really like Co-Pilot the most, and set to use the phones "Text-to-Speech" rather
than the ones the app can download. Using the phones TTS will announce street names while navigating.
Some Extra reading material, if you want to know what the settings mean. It mainly applies to Froyo. When I got GB I just tailored the Froyo settings to GB and it worked the same.
---->To Anyone Having GPS Issues
---->How to Fix Galaxy S GPS
I hope it works for you guys, like I said it most likely will work on other phones/carriers/roms. Just make that backup, and before diving in head first, do some reading.
Have a nice day!
-Maniac
Wow! This made a HUGE difference for my Telus Samsung Fascinate 3G+ SGH-T959D (2.3.3).
I used to have such a hard time getting locks, especially in the evening (I don't know if it was a coincidence or not), but now so far with the tweak, I get 4 to 8 locks in 10-15 seconds, that's awesome! Yesterday it even went up to 10 locks, I had never seen that before!
For those interested, I was able to do the tweak without root.
Thanks a buch Maniac!
Can this be used on the MIUI ROMs? I can't seem to get that dialer code working for me.
Shamrock13 said:
Can this be used on the MIUI ROMs? I can't seem to get that dialer code working for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CM7 same same
Shamrock13 said:
Can this be used on the MIUI ROMs? I can't seem to get that dialer code working for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MJMcMahon said:
CM7 same same
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try the app called SGS Tools.. it might get you into the GPS. There was another app I had that had a button "Angry GPS".. but for the life of me I can't remember the name of it.
Bottom line, the settings you are looking to make these changes are called Angry GPS.
Maniac
Hope this helps everyone.
axelryder said:
Wow! This made a HUGE difference for my Telus Samsung Fascinate 3G+ SGH-T959D (2.3.3).
I used to have such a hard time getting locks, especially in the evening (I don't know if it was a coincidence or not), but now so far with the tweak, I get 4 to 8 locks in 10-15 seconds, that's awesome! Yesterday it even went up to 10 locks, I had never seen that before!
For those interested, I was able to do the tweak without root.
Thanks a buch Maniac!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome. I agree... these minor tweaks made such a huge difference on GPS.. I coudn't believe it, all telus had to do was the same, or samsung, and these problems wouldn't exist.
Maniac
I'm running the Community Froyo KangBang-whatever-it's-called ROM (the 2.1 one) - can't get into this menu at all. Any insight? My GPS has been flaky as hell recently. Once it locks, it loses signal frequently.
I might have some help for those who can't get into the Angry GPS settings. The gps.conf file, located /system/etc/gps.conf
This is what I have in my file...keep in mind.. I'm stock gingerbread... this should work for froyo.. if anyone is using a froyo based rom.. maybe they can confirm there gps.conf is layed out the same.
NTP_SERVER=north-america.pool.ntp.org
XTRA_SERVER_1=http://xtra1.gpsonextra.net/xtra.bin
XTRA_SERVER_2=http://xtra2.gpsonextra.net/xtra.bin
XTRA_SERVER_3=http://xtra3.gpsonextra.net/xtra.bin
SUPL_HOST=supl.google.com
SUPL_PORT=7276
The NTP_SERVER, and 3 XTRA_SERVER(s) were already there... the only thing that was added as a result of my changes is the SUPL_HOST/PORT listings and settings.
I would suggest you guys only add the following 2 lines to the bottom of what you already have in gps.conf using root explorer, I like ES File Explorer for editing files cause it has its own built in txt editor. Maybe you can play around with changing your NTP servers.. these work awsome for me.
SUPL_HOST=supl.google.com
SUPL_PORT=7276
In having said this, the main setting I found that helped the most is SSL for the SUPL server... which is an ON/OFF setting in Angry GPS. I will keep digging and see if I can find which file holds that toggle.
Perhaps you guys can try this and I'll see what else I can find.
Maniac
PS.... BACKUP YOUR ORIG gps.conf.. or copy the text.. anything.
Necromancyr said:
I'm running the Community Froyo KangBang-whatever-it's-called ROM (the 2.1 one) - can't get into this menu at all. Any insight? My GPS has been flaky as hell recently. Once it locks, it loses signal frequently.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I did get a lock, I had the same problem with GPS before I found these settings.
Guys I haven't had the time to do more digging on the config files for Angry GPS.. just start 1st yr in college... I'm doing a programming course, and I love it so far.
Who knows.. in a little while I might reach the status of "Developer" on this site... I sure hope too... cause I got awsome ideas for apps.
Maniac
this is only for telus right?
exzacklyright said:
this is only for telus right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
should work for more then telus. I've done this on my friends bell phone and he was amazed.
after putting in a code it just deletes it and nothing happens... I've even tried some of these codes:
http://www.askvg.com/google-android-hidden-secret-codes/
a fix for ics would be nice...
digga50000 said:
a fix for ics would be nice...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I find anything out, I will post it here... but I will tell you I'm currently writing mid-terms in college. It might be a couple days.
Maniac
Hey MrManiacNF,
I was wondering if you had any suggestions;
My GPS still gets faster fixes then before your tweak, but there is a really strange behavior now. I have a app that tells me how many fix I currently have (GPS Monitor) and extremely often, while using the GPS with Google Navigation, the fixes will drop to 0, and stay like this for some time. Then they will come back, and so forth. The thing is, I dont remember it doing that before, and its very frustrating because I lose my location and get lost lol
I just wanted to know if there was some settings I could change for the fixes to not drop all the time, or any idea that you might have.
Maybe some cautiousness, I have been trying this yesterday and ended up doing a nandroid restore because after setting AngryGPS settings every time gps was being accessed phone switched off instantly (i9001)... no matter even after setting AngryGPS settings back to original still the same. Every acces to gps results in switching off my phone (not even power down but instanst off)
I have a Passion v10 in my SGS Vibrant.
My problem rigth now it is the GPS. I have my GPS ON and i got signal in Google maps, but only in this app. If i try my GPS app (NDrive) it say NO GPS, if i try a test with GPS Test i have GPS ON but i dont have any signal, if i test with AngryGPS i have a time out (same as NO GPS )
These are my settings with AngryGPS:
Test mode: S/W Test
Operation Mode: MSBased
Start mode: Hot start
XTRA: ON
GPS Logging: ON
Time out(s): 225
Accuracy: 50
Server FQDN: Custom Config
Server: supl.google.com
Server port: 7276
Server type: UMTS SLP
SUPL Secure socket: OFF
AGPS Mode: SUPL
SSL Type: VerSing
Can i do something else?
I have the correct configuration?
Someone have problems like this?
I really appreciate any help.
Best Regards!,
Waldos.
it is probably WIFI location not GPS that's why its working in maps. To get GPS working try this:
1. download GPS Status from market
2. open it then goto Menu > Tools > Manage A-GPS State
3. Click Reset
4. Reboot
5. open GPS Status and go back to the same menu and click Download
After doing this you should immediately see about 10-14 satellites and within a few seconds get a lock. Then open maps or any other software.
hi syl0n, thx for your help.
I did what you tell me and i did not get a bigger difference. I think it is not related with the settings.
The only i can say you is that i only have access to the GPS the first seconds of the startup. If i try to open a GPS app after the first seconds i can catch any gps signal.
This is a problem with the phone?
ICS is good with GPS?
There will be a fix for this problem?
Thanks for your great support!
Best regards,
Waldos.
Edit:
Finally i got a near perfect GPS. I concluded that i have only the first minutes to start the GPS process, after that i can not get the GPS function.
If you need my steps to get the GPS, they are here.
First al all delete the GPS configuration, to make a fresh and clean signal:
Go to angryGPS and press Delete GPS Data
The we can start the configuration of the GPS with the same app (angryGPS )
General Settings
Test mode: S/W Test
Operation Mode: MSBased
Start mode: Cold start
XTRA: ON
GPS Logging: ON
Time out(s): 225
Accuracy: 50
SUPL Settings
Server FQDN: Custom Config
Server: supl.google.com
Server port: 7276
Server type: UMTS SLP
SUPL Secure socket: OFF
AGPS Mode: SUPL
SSL Type: VerSing
Then we continue the configuration with FasterFix :
You have to put your continent.
If you live in US you have to select North-America.
If you live in Spain you have to put Europe.
Finally put it on your first screen a shortcut of AngryGPS (a fast shortcut)
Now you have to shut-down your phone, go outside and start your phone.
You have the first minutes to start the GPS process, so start the AngryGPS, select Lock-on-Satellite Test, select GPS Start, and wait some minutes. When the first cycle ends (225 sec) you finally have the location of your position.
Now you can change the angryGPS configuration for a faster GPS.
Go to AngryGPS and change the next option:
Start mode: Hot start
And thats all! If you have more problems. I have a bulletproof configuration. Just Ask me.
Someone with GPS problems can try this solution?
Thx for this great forum!
HW fix
Waldos said:
Someone with GPS problems can try this solution?
Thx for this great forum!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you even taken the phone apart yet, and done the HW Mod yet, Its a well known fact that T-959's have ****ty contact with the GPS antenna, and as such, there is no SW configuration that will achieve any signal strong enough to make it work, until the HW mod is performed, which afterwards you will see significantly improved signal, and therefore the next step would be in deciding which SW works the best based on the flavor of ROM your using, I myself am using the script that came with V10 and am getting excellent results, with lock within 30 sec's or less and down to 13ft. But of course I did the HW MOD, I slipped some plastic under the tabs for both my GPS and WIFI to ensure excellent contact pressure, ensuring strong signals. Otherwise before I did the MOD for GPS, there wasn't hardly any signal and I was lucky to achieve lock at all!!
If you havent improved the contact pressure, you need to do that before screwing around with the SW. Otherwise your chasing your tail in circles!
Hi dseldown,
Thanks for your excellent and detail solution. I test your solution when i will not have any sinal , but for the moment i do not want to open my phone because yesterday i did some test and the GPS is near perfect. The only think i do (after all the above configuration) is reboot the phone and when the phone starts i open AngryGPS and start a Lock-on-Satellite Test, after 30 seconds i have 9~10 birds.
You have take in mind that you have to configure your phone before you GPS works.
Another note it is that not always your icon of GPS has to blink. Sometimes only appears.
Final note: I know that i have my GPS working because i have my WiFi Off and i am on only 2G.
After I did the HW fix I actually had to remove angry GPS to get good locks.
Might be a fluke.
ElectricMenace said:
After I did the HW fix I actually had to remove angry GPS to get good locks.
Might be a fluke.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe but i dont know.
There are a detail tutorial to make this fix? or video?
I will try this solution in some weeks.
Waldos said:
Maybe but i dont know.
There are a detail tutorial to make this fix? or video?
I will try this solution in some weeks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes search Hardware fix GPS Vibrant. There is also a youtube.
it is really really simple. The forum post says solder but what you can do is cut a tiny piece of 12 gauge (really tiny) and just put it in between contacts. I got signal lock in my basement which is retarded lucky but still happened.
Ok i will do a research about this topic.
And i put my comments in this same threat.
I have to add another note:
Yesterday and today i only have GPS signal before 2 reboots. I do not know why but i have a strong signal I hope have a better signal before do a Hardware fix.
What is the MMI code to delete the gps settings.... does not seem to work like it did on froyo/etc..... angry gps seems to do nothing for me. On V11 neobuddys passion.
s15274n said:
What is the MMI code to delete the gps settings.... does not seem to work like it did on froyo/etc..... angry gps seems to do nothing for me. On V11 neobuddys passion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
*#*#1472365#*#*
Woodrube said:
*#*#1472365#*#*
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also not working. Thanks though.