Related
So, everything was fine as I shut down last night after reading a few pages from a book. Tried to power up this evening and it just won't cooperate. It won't turn on unless I hold the power button down for nine seconds. It starts up "with tap n tap" screen, then the n logo shows, then the "with tap n tap" flashes and returns to black screen then shows the "with tap n tap" for a total of eight times then stays black. No rooting, totally stock, used very little, few apps, added some reader stuff, tried a barcode thing to no avail - nothing more. Please advise. Take pity on someone like your mother! Any ideas on how to fix this? Should I contact Viewsonic or Woot? (yes, it's fully charged - first thing I tried). I'm so disappointed : (
Thank you
I've seen this happen a few times with both stock and modded devices. I think it's caused by corruption in data files that are used by some of the system firmware but I'm not 100% certain of that. A data wipe could very well get you going again. Without being able to boot all the way you're options for doing that are somewhat limited. One would be to install and use ClockworkMod, a very minor and extremely common modification to the firmware. The other option that I have used successfully is a script I've written that will delete those system prefence files and clear the machines cache without modifying your firmware. Neither is terribly complicated to implement.
All that being said... it is really up to you as to how comfortable you would feel performing those options. I can say that you will find plenty of people here that will be willing to stay right with you until it's fixed and we have a very high success rate when it comes to recovering from this kind of issue. On the other hand, Woot has been very responsive to customers with problems so it's really your call.
This thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=865245 has instructions for installing ClockworkMod. It has a lot of other information in it also but the important part would be installing CWM. It also has download links to the files. Once it is installed it is a fairly simple matter of booting the machine up while holding down the volume up key and you'll be presented with a menu of options that will include wiping data. Selecting that will clear out any apps you've downloaded and associated data along with the system data. Once done you simply reboot the machine from another menu option and you should be off and running.
My script is run very much like installing ClockworkMod but will simply do the deletion without any user intervention. When done it reboots automatically and in two or three minutes you should be back to the initial setup screen for the tablet.
All of this probably sounds a lot more difficult than it really is but I think if you take a look at that thread I listed above and do a little searching on terms like "ClockworkMod Data Wipe" you'll find there are lots of folks who have done this and plenty of help if you need it.
KJ and LynnyW,
Since he can't boot, he will either have to make a microSD with a CWM update.zip and recovery folder (with command file edited to point to SDCARD2 instead of SDCARD) and boot that into recovery with power/volume + .
Or, he will have to NVFlash the CWM by itself.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1020747
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1030042
The two links above have most of the info.
If he can get CWM up by one method or the other, need to go to Advanced Menu and tell it to Partition (2048 and 0), Fix Permissions and Wipe Dalvik Cache -- and then return to Main Menu and Wipe Cache and Wipe/Reset Factory Data. Then reboot.
If the tablet comes up fine we're good to go. Otherwise may need to talk about a
stock rom flash.
Hope this helps.
Rev
I am running a stock system. Amazon market and a couple bird games are all that's really on it as I use it mostly to browse the web with. No flash no email, it's stock. So far I've limped through how to recover from the acore.process problem, then ended up learning how to use nvflash after what this user described happened twice so far. I am debating updating to a Dev rom if they are more stable as otherwise this is just a fragile toy that I can't take out of the house on trips.
wetzk said:
I am debating updating to a Dev rom if they are more stable as otherwise this is just a fragile toy that I can't take out of the house on trips.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Update. So much better it's unreal. Go with something stable like Caulkin, Vegantab, or TnT lite. Not only will you get the real Market, you'll be much happier all around. It can be much more than a fragile little toy.
butchconner said:
KJ and LynnyW,
Since he can boot, he will either have to make a microSD with a CWM update.zip and recovery folder (with command file edited to point to SDCARD2 instead of SDCARD) and boot that into recovery with power/volume + .
Or, he will have to NVFlash the CWM by itself.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1020747
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1030042
The two links above have most of the info.
If he can get CWM up by one method or the other, need to go to Advanced Menu and tell it to Partition (2048 and 0), Fix Permissions and Wipe Dalvik Cache -- and then return to Main Menu and Wipe Cache and Wipe/Reset Factory Data. Then reboot.
If the tablet comes up fine we're good to go. Otherwise may need to talk about a
stock rom flash.
Hope this helps.
Rev
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the decision needs to be made as to whether LynnyW actually wants to start mucking about before we go suggesting modifying the recovery and repartitioning the tablet. In this case I think all that's necessary is a data wipe and that can be done without starting down a path that LynnyW may not care to follow. I certainly wouldn't recommend anything as extreme as repartitioning when the question asked is whether or not a call should be made to the manufacturer and vendor.
KJ,
Take him where you want to go -- but if he can't boot up he's going to have to
get inside somehow. That's why I said I thought he would have to install CWM.
If you know some way to wipe or reset without CWM, go for it.
Rev
P. S. -- And I assume anyone that posts here wants to fix it unless that is not
possible -- and then they want us to tell them to go to VS or Woot or
whatever.
I meant no offense, Rev. She asked whether she should call woot or Viewsonic. I was just pointing that out. Not everyone is ready to jump into modding when they have the option of warranty return/replacement.
waiting for Viewsonic call
Thanks folks. I don't want to go mucking about until necessary. I guess I was hoping for an easy fix/reset. I prefer not to send the tab for repair unless replacement is necessary. Not yet willing to put my toe in water of this vast new world of acronyms I know nothing about. My brother's voice echos in my head "you know just enough to be dangerous" (re windows). I don't want to void the warranty. I called Viewsonic and had to leave my telephone number for a return call. I'm hoping they can e-mail a file which I can copy to a microSD, pop in, turn on, and resume - until I have the nerve to install something more stable. I will let you know what Viewsonic has to say. They no longer operate at the toll free number listed on the website. Directed to another number where they answer the phone "can I help you?". I wonder what service they are using for tech support.
Lynny
I have just such a file that might get you going. Posted it this morning here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1030915
Feel free to look that over and let me know if you have any questions. The main caveat is that it will delete any user apps that have been installed. That may include factory installed apps that are stored in the user app area. If that is a problem I can modify the script to preserve them but then we might not be clearing the problem file.
Viewsonic should hire you!
Well, I received a call from Viewsonic tech support. The moment I finished explaining what happens on the screen, the tech said "I never heard of this. Ship it back." Whoa, no attempt to troubleshoot? I asked was there not a bootable file I could be e-mailed? After rephrasing and getting nowhere, I was not happy to be told to send this to LA for an unknown amount of time at my expense. I was told I could call back later when the manager was back from lunch. This is a far cry from the claim on the Viewsonic website:
"Got a question? We have the answers right here: documentation, downloads, tech support, software updates, product warranty and registration. Get the assistance you need, when you need it – right now. Find out how we stand behind our product, all the way."
The lack of speculation regarding what the problem might be makes me feel that Viewsonic farmed this out to a fly-by-night call center and the folks there were told to have callers just send in the hardware.
Sorry, I had to rant.
KJ, Viewsonic should hire you and your xda brethren. The files to clear the data worked. Yes, it did wipe out factory and user apps, but it got the tab working in five minutes. It also gave me a little courage. I will, after all, start reading about modifying this thing. I don't want to set it all up only to have it faint on me again.
If you have any recommendations for the least-likely-to-brick-it route, please advise. I have read a number of threads but there is so much information, and although there are numerous step-by-step instructions, I have no idea what the different roms do. I don't know where to start reading and I don't want to become an annoyance here. I will do my homework before I ask too many newbie questions.
THANK YOU!
Lynny
We understand the need to rant from time to time. No problem ;-)
Glad it got you going. I do want to recommend that you do a factory reset from the system settings also just to make absolutely sure everything was cleaned properly. It's under "Security" in the System Settings.
As for modding... read, read read. Start with the "Stickied" items in the General and Developer sections. You'll find references to basic procedures and cautions but always make sure to follow the developers instructions attached to the specific ROM you choose. As for the "Least likely to brick it..." I may not be the best person to ask since I routinely run experimental ROMs. I do like the TnTLite path for its stability, reasonable speed and close association to the stock ROM. Read as much of the threads attached to each one and ask questions if you need to. That's why we're here.
I have a Gtablet enroute right now and have been doing a lot of reading the last few days. When first released all the talk was that it was a nice peice of hardware but to be any good you had to use a custom ROM with it. Is this still the case with the latest 4xxx update?
Pexcer,
It all depends on what you want. That's what the choices XDA offers here are all
about.
When we started with G-Tablets back last fall, the software was so bad it was
almost unfunctional. It has improved with each update. With 4349 installed you
can put your apps on it and have a functional tablet -- but whether it is good enough
for you is your call.
There are a number of alternate ROMs and each has it assets and liabilities.
The only way I know to approach it is to read the threads related to each rom and
see what those advantages and disadvantages are. You can eliminate some that way.
And whatever you have left, you will just have to try and see what you like.
I know this is not the "Go use the _______________ rom" that a lot of people will
give you -- but I'm not pandering for anybody's rom. I believe everyone should
research, try and make their own choice.
Rev
Pexcer said:
I have a Gtablet enroute right now and have been doing a lot of reading the last few days. When first released all the talk was that it was a nice peice of hardware but to be any good you had to use a custom ROM with it. Is this still the case with the latest 4xxx update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm more inclined to go with the fastest rom I can get my hands on. I don't care about looks. And stock rom will never be able to fun as fast as custom rom.
That said, you should make this decision on your own. Depends on what you want. If you are like my brother in law who wants everything to be official and fully officially supported, then I suggest you stay with the stock upgraded rom. If you're like me who doesn't care that it's the official release and would rather have a super fast tablet, then custom rom is definitely the way to go.
In another thread, I was endorsing the new calk/clems combo v3, which my quadrant test resulted in 4081. I've posted a picture in this post. Right now, the only thing that seems to be faster than this is the modded xoom, which is only about 80 more. I highly doubt the stock rom will ever be able to give us this much power.
Thanks for the response. I may try the stock UI for a few days when I get it. I have been having difficulty in really seeing the differences between the different ROMs out there though. One thing I plan to do a lot is watch TV shows I've downloaded from TVtorrents, these are 720p x264 in an MKV, is there one mod that can handle Video like that or is that a non issue. I can also grab non HD formats which would have a higher chance of working, but would rather not.
I've also read that hulu can be made to work, at least on one ROM, can't recall which now. If one does Hulu and another doesn't that would be an issue as well. I only download shows that Hulu or Netflix doesn't have.
Any guidance from people familiar with the different options would be appreciated, might save me from some trial and error in the next couple weeks.
Pexcer said:
I've also read that hulu can be made to work, at least on one ROM, can't recall which now. If one does Hulu and another doesn't that would be an issue as well. I only download shows that Hulu or Netflix doesn't have.
Any guidance from people familiar with the different options would be appreciated, might save me from some trial and error in the next couple weeks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Torrents blows goats. their download speeds are as fast as my original G Tab os. File Hosting is the way to roll.
Off my soapbox, I agree with goodintentions. Speed and stability is the key. after that, ADW, 3D Launcher, VTLauncher and a few other Home screen launchers can customize your experience. let us know how yours runs. I won't go that route until the ROM's for it (1.2) are out and stable.
I don't have the newest update that just came out, so I can't comment on that. But I can mention why I went back to the stock ROM. I got my g tablet when woot was selling them. I left the stock rom on for a week and it worked pretty well as a shared device between me and my wife. The stock apps let you keep separate accounts. I put on clockwork and formatted the drive as recommended, then I tried TNT lite, g harmony, and cyanogen. They make your tablet like a big phone. When you sign in to the google apps, all you contacts, calendar, and emails are imported. This didn't work so well as a shared tablet. I decided to leave clockwork mod and the recommended formatting but put the original ROM back on. With the proper formatting, the thing isn't too bad. Probably not as fast as some of the folks here would like, but it serves our purpose as a shared device.
Half the fun (and half the aggravation) is trying different roms. Which is best? That is hard to say. Here is what I suggest. Don't get the latest update with the locked bootloader because then there is nothing you can play with. Get Titanium Backup so you can back up your apps. Learn how to connect t o your pc with usb so you can copy your stuff safely away while you play. Install clockworkmod so you can fix things and install different roms. NVflash is also a good thing to set up and learn but you don't have to right away unless you got the latest update. Now do this.
1. Use clockwork mod to make a backup of your original rom and copy it to your pc.
2. Download and install a new rom calkulin/clemsyn is nice. Use clockwork mod again to make a backup of that installation.
3. download another rom and install. Use clockworkmod to make a backup of that one.
4. When you've tried enough of them you can decide which one you like and restore it using clockwork mod.
5. Changed you mind? Restore one of the others!
6. Rinse and repeat as needed.
Remember Titanium Backup will backup your apps and data - so, if you install a new rom you can restore your apps and data. That means you don't have to go fetch them all in the market and you don't have to restart angry birds at level one.
There are lots of tutorials on how to do this stuff - read the stickys.
Good luck
Try a bunch of ROMs
I agree with enigma. I got my Gtablet last week and immediately updated hoping that the new stock ROM was good enough. It isn't. It's slow and "chunky" plus doesn't have access to the Android market.
I've heard good stuff about the calkulin/clemsyn and Vegan. Being that Vegan is Honeycomb I just went with that though I really should have tried calkulin/clemsyn too as so many must like it for a reason.
I'm new to Android as well so don't get too hung up on the difficulty of installing ROMs. There are very clear, step by step instructions to be found here. Each install takes maybe 15 minutes. So in an afternoon you could easily install and play with half a dozen ROMs before deciding on which you like better.
enigma0456 said:
Half the fun (and half the aggravation) is trying different roms. Which is best? That is hard to say. Here is what I suggest. Don't get the latest update with the locked bootloader because then there is nothing you can play with. Get Titanium Backup so you can back up your apps. Learn how to connect t o your pc with usb so you can copy your stuff safely away while you play. Install clockworkmod so you can fix things and install different roms. NVflash is also a good thing to set up and learn but you don't have to right away unless you got the latest update. Now do this.
1. Use clockwork mod to make a backup of your original rom and copy it to your pc.
2. Download and install a new rom calkulin/clemsyn is nice. Use clockwork mod again to make a backup of that installation.
3. download another rom and install. Use clockworkmod to make a backup of that one.
4. When you've tried enough of them you can decide which one you like and restore it using clockwork mod.
5. Changed you mind? Restore one of the others!
6. Rinse and repeat as needed.
Remember Titanium Backup will backup your apps and data - so, if you install a new rom you can restore your apps and data. That means you don't have to go fetch them all in the market and you don't have to restart angry birds at level one.
There are lots of tutorials on how to do this stuff - read the stickys.
Good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you need vpn, cifs then you need a custom ROM
It depends on what capabilities you want. I need VPN and COFS so I use TNTL 4.4. Also, you can install alternate keybaords. The custom ROMs also tend to fix a lot of issues.
Shame on Viewsonic for locking bootloader in the 1.2 branch.
ConfuciusTse said:
. Being that Vegan is Honeycomb I just went with that though I really should have tried calkulin/clemsyn too as so many must like it for a reason.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know somebody is gonna see this and say something, so I figure I'll be the first to point out its gingerbread not honeycomb.
muerteman said:
I know somebody is gonna see this and say something, so I figure I'll be the first to point out its gingerbread not honeycomb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
haha, GB is good almost HC good so far.
So I ordered a gtablet and read that flashing it will improve its performance, so I plan on doing that.
I read the guide on how to do it.
I realize each one has its good and bad points.
I am not sure what rom to use. I was going to put vegan on it as I have seen a few people recommend it. I was going through posts on the ginger edition of vegan and saw posts of people having trouble with videos. SO I am leaning towards the vegan 5.1 as people say its stable
I mainly will use the tablet to watch movies, read digital books/comics/magazines and web surf. Would vegan ginger be good pick? Seemed like people were having trouble with video.
When the tablet arrives Im assuming that I should not update it to the latest firmware? Ive seen posts about 1.2 not being compatible. Do I need to make sure I am on certain firmware to root/flash?
.
One other quick question. In the tutorial it mention that when you put clockwork on you make new partition. Does this affect the external sdcard, or is it referring to internal memory?
Just want to make sure as I ordered a larger microsd card so I will wait to flash if its needed to partition.
Thanks. If anyone has any tips or tricks you could offer Id appreciate it as well.
THank you
I'll let others answer your questions since I'm fairly new myself, but I wanted to mention a couple things.
As someone that's certainly computer literate, but completely new to tablets and android, I was able to install Vegan 5.1 following the instructions here. I've been happy with it, but still learning the ropes.
My main issue came from not having a gmail.com email address. My google account was linked to a yahoo email address and that caused issues with Google Talk (which also caused issues with the android marketplace). Other than that, it was fairly painless.
all of the things you want to do, watch videos, read books, and surf the web can be done on a Stock G-tablet. If you don't like the visual appeal of the stock rom, or want to have root access to flash kernels, etc, then you'll need to flash a custom Rom.
More than likely, the G-tablet will not be on a 1.2 firmware out of hte box. Viewsonic pulled the 1.2 update a day after releasing it. The 1.2 branch of development is working under the assumption that all future updates will be of the 1.2 form. So, if you flash a 1.1 Rom now, you may need to be prepared to flash a 1.2 rom later on, if you want future official updates.
I was usuing Vegan 5.1.1, and it worked well. It was stable, I could watch videos, read books, and surf the web, just like you want to. Recently, I flashed Brilliant Corners, which is a 1.2 version of Vegan 5.1.1. It works just the same, but now I'm prepared for any future 1.2 Roms with updates that may include hardware acceleration. The only Honeycomb rom, right now, is being developed on the 1.2 development branch. It's still in the Alpha stages, but if you ever want ot check it out, you'll need to be on 1.2.
The partitioning in the instructions does refer to the internal SD card. With any Vegan rom (from what I've observed) including Brilliant Corners, you need to add a file to each folder, including the root of the external SD card if you plan on putting any music or video files on it. You need a ".Nomedia" file. If you don't have that file, for some reason, the media gets wiped occasioanlly on reboot, waking, etc.
I have never tried any of the "ginger" roms (CM7 and Veganginger) Neither have true official hardware acceleration from NVidea, which is what causes some of the video issues.
My personal opinion...since you are a new user, and have a virgin G-Tab, I would suggest that you flash a 1.2 Rom. If you like Vegan-Tab 5.1.1, then flashing Brilliant Corners gives you the same thing. It's not that hard a process, but it's more involved than just flashing a 1.1 rom. The advantage you have right now is that you are bone stock, so you're already halfway there.
Regards,
Todd
Doesnt flashing make the tablet run smoother and give you the android market so you have more apps to choose from?
I'll admit Im getting discourage from reading the forum. Seems like after you flash a rom then you have to do alot of this to get that working again afterwards. Like it will be one problem after another.
Is this the case? Or is it just that people dont post when it works only when it doesnt making it seem worse to people looking around.
I was looking around and see some posts about running nvflash first before anything else.
I tried searching for a guide on it but couldnt find one on how to make initial back-up before I start flashing.
Can anyone post the correct link?
I see other posts about clockwork recovery.
So I am not sure what to do.
Should I just follow this guide http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=865245
or should I do something more?
Don't be discouraged, the problems don't happen to everyone, and most are resolved.
If you know how to work a computer and can follow instructions you should be fine.
I got my g Tablet in april, it still had the original ROM on it, from the time I opened the packaging to the time I got VEGAN Ginger running on it was about 40 minutes, and most of that was from downloading and installing things on my windows machine, lol.
Once I got VEGAN ginger running I haven't had any major issues with it. I have full access to the Android market, the Amazon market, and the NVIDIA market.
The VEGAN ginger runs Tegra games great BTW, Dungeon defenders and GunBroz both run flawlessly.
It's definitely worth it to put a custom ROM on, and VEGAN ginger is a good choice.
If you'd like, later I'll try to put a few movies on it and play them, that's one thing I haven't done. Also I've heard theres a netflix app available, I'll try that as well.
Doesnt flashing make the tablet run smoother and give you the android market so you have more apps to choose from?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would say that originally customs roms made it run smoother, only becuase the original stock rom was pure garbage. As for android market fixes, you don't need a custom rom for them.
Seems like after you flash a rom then you have to do alot of this to get that working again afterwards. Like it will be one problem after another.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It depends on the rom, I think. Some of them are still in development, so aren't the completed versions yet. I can tell you that my first flash of Vegan 5.1.1 worked flawlessly. Everything worked as I expected it when I was done flashing.
I was looking around and see some posts about running nvflash first before anything else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is preventative mantainence...being comfortable with NVflash will help you in case anything goes wrong. People suggest that you are familiar with it because many times, it's the only way to recover from a soft brick.
As I mentioned before, just about everything you want to do can be done on stock firmware. Rooting your device will give you more options, like overclocking, or running custom kernels. It will also give you the option to flash the custom roms, if you ever want to. CWM will give you more recovery options, enabling you to make a backup of your system, etc.
If you find that stock firmware isn't workign up to your standards, then by all means, take the plunge and root your device, install CWM, and flash the rom of your choice.
I am new to the forum and the G Tab but have been browsing. I just got the G Tab today and wanted to pursue the Roebeets+Clemsyn's Honeycomb COMBO alpha path!
I have a few questions...
Assuming I have the 1.2 BL (4349) out of the box do I still need to re-partition the G-Tab with 2048/0MB and wipe before proceeding?
Can I skip the following steps?
1. Nvflash to 3588 STOCK DO NOT USE CWM FOR 3588
2. Do not install CWM (we need the stock recovery)
3. DO NOT INSTALL CWM (we need the stock recovery)
4. PLEASE DO NOT INSTALL CWM
5. Reboot
And start from here assuming the partition sizes are correct?
6. RENAME COMBO FILE NAME TO Update.zip
7. Move Update.zip to /sdcard folder
8. Unzip recover.zip and move recovery folder to /sdcard folder
8. Turn off
10. Press Power+Volume up then this will install Update.zip
I know I should NOT install CWM as it wont work until after I flash the ROM which I assume is included in the ROM image.
Is there anything else I need to do before proceeding? I will backup the original ROM of course.
Thanks in advance and what an excellent resource
Do you know what what alpha means? It means it's not recommended for new users. There are many things that still don't work.
That said, technically you can skip all of that. Do you even know why we recommend people to repartition to 2048/0? It's because of compatibility issues. If you don't repartition from the beginning, the system will eventually force closes everything.
I highly recommend you visit my sight. It's written for beginners.
http://viewsonic-gtablet-for-dummies.webs.com/
Yes I do know what alpha means I deal with devs all of the time. I wanted to clarify the partition sizes because it wasn't mentioned in the dev thread as most users there were already coming from previous mods. I will check out your site though and I appreciate the advice. I may be a noob to the G-Tab and Andriod but am an IT admin by trade.
Thanks!
Ok. Still, chances are you will eventually have force closing issue. And I do mean it's bad. That's why the recommendation nowadays is for people to repartition right away before they start putting their own crap into the sdcard. Partitioning erases everything in the sdcard. So, better do it now than later when you already have all your crap in there.
Agreed! I went through your sight and it was very helpful. Thanks. I didn't realize that VS kept the same partition scheme I thought maybe with 1.2 they would have made some changes for the better. But it doesn't matter I will wipe and reformat anyway. I got the G-Tab yesterday and fired it up. WOW is it slow for a dual core. My Droid X runs circles around it...
Thanks again!
Oh by the way... I configured WiFi and I dont broadcast my SSID. I setup the G-Tab for my network and but it stated "Network out of range". So I enabled the SSID and then it connected. Everything worked just fine until I turned off the SSID broadcast again. Now the G-Tab cannot states it's out of range again. Is there anyway to force it? My other Android device and iPad dont have this issue. I hate broadcasting my SSID.
Thanks!
Hey GI,
Can you verify this step from your site? In Part D after the backup you don't want to go to Install ZIP? I skipped that because it is repeated after the wipes and that made more sense...
Thanks!
Part D (flashing a 1.2 ROM)
After backup is done, ----->>>>>>go back out and select "install zip from sdcard". <<<<<<<---------
Choose "wipe data/factory reset".
Choose "wipe cache partition".
Once it's done, go back out to root menu and choose "advanced".
Choose "Wipe Dalvik Cache".
Go back out and choose "install zip from sdcard".
Go into folder "Rom" and choose the Rom that you picked from the list. Watch it install.
After ROM installation is complete, repeat steps 6 and 7 for the GAPPS file IF YOU NEED TO.
Once everything is done, go back out to root menu and choose "reboot system now".
Well, we have a rooted and ROM'd G-Tab and man it is way more snappy. Thanks again to GI for his excellent web site. The new ROM also fixed my WiFi issue
G-Tab Rom
DroidxManiac said:
Well, we have a rooted and ROM'd G-Tab and man it is way more snappy. Thanks again to GI for his excellent web site. The new ROM also fixed my WiFi issue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which Rom did you end up going with? My GTAB will be here Monday. I want to get rid of the stock sluggishness but I'd also like my first ROM to have full functionality , etc so I can check out the camera, videos and all that on my new device. Maybe after some playtime I'll jump to an HC beta that still has issues.
I've done plenty of modding and ROM swapping for the last year on my Cappy, Atrix, and Aria so I'm no noob. I would just like to jump right into the most feature rich, yet stable ROM on day one so I can really check out my new device.
Thanks!
grayfoxx said:
Which Rom did you end up going with? My GTAB will be here Monday. I want to get rid of the stock sluggishness but I'd also like my first ROM to have full functionality , etc so I can check out the camera, videos and all that on my new device. Maybe after some playtime I'll jump to an HC beta that still has issues.
I've done plenty of modding and ROM swapping for the last year on my Cappy, Atrix, and Aria so I'm no noob. I would just like to jump right into the most feature rich, yet stable ROM on day one so I can really check out my new device.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty much all froyo roms listed on my site have full functionality (HW accel, video, sound, wifi, camera, etc.). And all of them can be overclocked.
With gingerbread roms, you really need to overclock to get the same video smoothness that you see in froyo because of the lack of HW accel. This is not the developer's fault. And no, it's not my fault either. The mofos NVIDIA and VS decided to stop supporting their product a couple months after they were released.
I'd stay away from the honeycomb roms if I were you. All of them are in their alpha stages right now. Even though most functions work, there are still instability issues. They're only recommended for testers right now.
goodintentions said:
Pretty much all froyo roms listed on my site have full functionality (HW accel, video, sound, wifi, camera, etc.). And all of them can be overclocked.
With gingerbread roms, you really need to overclock to get the same video smoothness that you see in froyo because of the lack of HW accel. This is not the developer's fault. And no, it's not my fault either. The mofos NVIDIA and VS decided to stop supporting their product a couple months after they were released.
I'd stay away from the honeycomb roms if I were you. All of them are in their alpha stages right now. Even though most functions work, there are still instability issues. They're only recommended for testers right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@goodintentions. I thank you to provide your useful advice.
grayfoxx said:
Which Rom did you end up going with? My GTAB will be here Monday. I want to get rid of the stock sluggishness but I'd also like my first ROM to have full functionality , etc so I can check out the camera, videos and all that on my new device. Maybe after some playtime I'll jump to an HC beta that still has issues.
I've done plenty of modding and ROM swapping for the last year on my Cappy, Atrix, and Aria so I'm no noob. I would just like to jump right into the most feature rich, yet stable ROM on day one so I can really check out my new device.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried three or four ROMs so far. Among them, my favorite is:
Calkulin + Clemsyn Combo Overclock at 1.5 ghz v5 (Froyo)
It is impressively fast, and the phone function works right of the box. It integrates nicely with either Google voice or Skype.
Calkulin's rom is by itself an already super fast rom. It's actually based off of the TnT. Incredible how he was able to make it work so well.
Just a noob sharing some thoughts, hope it can help some other noobs like me.
A no wipe in my book:
Here is how i do a no wipe.
In recovery, mount and storage and choose format system.
Go back and wipe Cache and Dalvik
Install / flash the rom.
A full wipe in my book:
Into recovery, mount and storage and format system, data and cache.
Go back, wipe/ reset data, cache and dalvik.
Install/flash rom
Format of the internal SD:
Here is what i do:
Make a app backup with TB to my external sd
Make a nandroid to my external sd
Make sure i also have a efs backup on my external sd
I only save mods, roms on my internal sd in my download map and this map i move to my external sd.
Then i reboot to recovery.
Mount and storage and format internal sd.
And to be save and have it nice a clean, also format system, data and cache and because i am not only a flashohalic but also a cleanohalic, i then wipe/reset factory reset, cache and dalvik.
Probably a big overkill, but he, done it several times it works for my and it only cause a few seconds.
Then i reboot, skip the setup/registration, move my download map back to my internal sd (don't like flashing from external sd).
Back in cwm, again a full wipe which includes the formats data, system and cache.
Then flash the rom and setting it up.
This way, you have a nice clean fresh S3, but and this is a big BUT.
Backup, backup backup and don't forget a efs backup to your external sd and pc.
Don't think lightly about those backups, when imei is broken and you don't have a backup, your a done, only thing left is a visit to Samsung.
Good luck when you are going for it.
And i know, Aroma installer is also doing some automatic wiping, but i am just a bit old fashion and like to do some stuff manually.
Bootloader.
As you all know, the new bootloader can be a pain in the ass.
But, i am still not sure that Samsung only released the new bootloader just to discourages us to flash custom stuff.
So, if you like flashing stuff and you are on the new bootloader like me, just remember when you entered recovery and you are done flashing stuff, use Triangle Away from Chainfire,
But, for some, like on my wifes phone, the latest version works without problem, but on my S3, i need to use the older version, 2.37, why, don't have a glue.
Not all S3 are the same, although have the same name and using the same chipsets.
But you can also use the old bootloaders, with does, you just have to run Triangle Away just once, when entering recovery, it will not count.
Your own choose.
About Sudden Death.
A lot of threads are open for this.
My 5 cents:
I have the "sudden Death" chips VTU00M chip with 0xf1 on both our phones.
Mine is running since 27 may 2012 without problems, still fast and smooth.
The other is up and running since 31 Augustus 2012 and also still fast and smooth.
Both have been rooted from day one, the only thing i do, is turning the devices off completely for a few minutes 4 to 5 times a week.
Old habit to clear memory, anyway, gives me time to do a good cleaning of my screen.
Here is the code to check your revision and to see from which day you are running your S3 *#12580*369#
Further more, AndreiLux found i string in the ELLA kernels released by Samsung that looks like that it solves the sudden death issue.
So, if indeed if fixes this issue, then off course the latest kernels releases from Sammy has also the fix and not just the custom kernels.
As far as i know, all the custom kernels has the fixes integrated this string by now, but i myself like the stock kernels, Indie puts in the Omega Roms.
Phil3759 has also made a repack of recovery based on CWM touch 6.0.2.7 to get it all safe.
More to come in the future, because i am learning everyday here on XDA and like to share and help others.
Edit, here is quote from AndreiLux about the new bootloader:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=37163086&postcount=1298
Do I need any particular Bootloader? No - There is no evidence to suggest this fixes anything
Apparently that's wrong, download mode on the device uses a microkernel from inside the bootloader instead of the full blown Linux kernel. When flashing something via Odin in download mode you'd be using the bootloader's MMC driver and thus be at risk.
All-day users are still safe via recovery and live kernel, but are not advised to flash things in download mode with an older bootloader. This also explains why they updated the bootloader in LLA. The security checks are a mere update to bring it up with what the 9305 and Note 2 users already have in terms of not able to get rid of the exclamation mark.
Personal note:
Maybe i am seeing this wrong, to much thinking in terms of home computers, but here is some thoughts regarding above.
From cold, turned off device,.
Turning the device on, micro kernel inside the bootloader kicks in to send information how to start the device correctly.
If it works this way and you are on the old bootloader, then every time you start the device with the old bootloader, you are at risk?
Some useful links:
My struggle with TA
Omega roms S3
Chris_84 Faq
Triangle Away
http://www.chainfire.eu/articles/118/Triangle_Away_vs_Samsung/
Old bootloader
Philz recovery
https://www.google.nl/search?q=andr...s=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.electricsheep.asi&hl=nl
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...sIm5ldC52aW5hZ3JlLmFuZHJvaWQuZW1tY19jaGVjayJd
Here i will post stuff that comes along the road like question about batterystats at recovery.
We used to have a option to wipe the battery stats at recovery, also there are some tools at Play store that claims to give a better battery life by just wiping those stats.
But after reading this excellent article, it comes clear that wiping those stats are bull.
So i am glad that option isn't available anymore and perhaps in time, the questions about those stats will faint away in oblivion
And another one i like to share.
Fast Dormancy.
Here is a great article about it, made by Erica.
For me, my provider is saying it's not supporting FD, but when use the method to check, it is supported.
So i tested it for a few days on and off and found that when it's off, i do get some better battery life, but it's just minor.
Instead of losing 5% battery at 8 hours standby, i lost 6%.
Also, i didn't see any benefits in speeds, so i turn it off every time after a flash of a new rom using gokhanmoral tool.
Another thing i like to add.
Wifi.
I have seen many posts about wifi problems.
Here what always works for me.
Sometimes just a reboot of the router will help.
Also, i find changing from dynamic (default) to static that my connection is faster connecting to my router (always use the never setting at wifi advanced to save battery).
Here is how to do it the easy way.
First set it up using it with the default dynamic settings, this way all will be filled in for you.
To change it to static.
Long press your connection and choose modify network config and check show advanced options.
Scroll down a bit and tap on IP settings and choose Static.
And that is all, now you have changed it to static and there is no more need for ip adress to negotiation any more.
https://www.google.nl/search?q=wifi...s=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a
Also if still having problems, adding some more permissions can solve it.
I use root explorer for this
ETC > Long press wifi folder and choose permissions (remember to change Mount R/W to Mount R/O) and check all nine boxes.
Hit back and go to Data > Misc and again long press wifi folder and again, check all nine boxes.
Space
I know, i am a control freak and i hate it when i see space just vanish.
So did some search and found a thumbnail map with more then 1gb size.
Looked at some submaps and i only saw some old stuff.
So, selected all the submaps and just deleted it without problems and gain more then a gb free space.
Here is where you can find it using root explorer:
storage > sdcard0 > .thumbnails.
Edit:
As bigmo7 pointed out, the thumbnails will be rebuild, but off course not off stuff that isn't present on the S3 anymore.
So, if you are someone that is just making pictures or making / creating movies and never delete then from your S3, there is no point off deleting the thumbnails.
But if you like me, moving, creating copying and deleting this kind off stuff, then you can gain space.
Battery life
Always a hot item.
First all, the S3 is a mini computer and computers need juice, just remember this.
Here are some stuff i always do after flashing a new rom.
If the rom comes with a aroma installer which let you select stuff to install or not install, look careful to the list.
Stuff you don't use, can just eat resources and i myself, just find it a waste.
Next, after flashing and setting up the new rom, you will be presented with the option to use wifi.
I always go to advanced when making a wifi connection to choose Never when phone is in standby.
For me, but this can be different for you, wifi is a bit off a drainer so do some testing, let it run overnight with Always selected and another night with Never and see the difference.
Next you will be present if you want to restore and let google backup your phone.
I always deselect backup my phone, first reason, i am a control freak and i decide when and what i want to backup.
And second it can give you wakelocks and this will cost you battery life.
Next step i do is going into settings and to sounds, i don't like the clicking sounds and i deselect all the system sounds.
Next, location services and deselect GPS and Location and Google search.
I want GPS active only when i need it, some apps like Facebook will activate GPS when running and i don't like this.
And i don't want Google to know where i am all the time.
Some weather apps needs Location and Google search to determine your location, but i use Weather pro and it don't need it.
Next step is going into accounts and look what you have selected for syncing.
I always deselect Google photos, Internet and Picasa web albums.
Stuff i don't need .
Location settings at accounts is also off.
Next step is using the Fast Dormancy toggle to disable Fast Dormancy, although my provider is supporting it, enabled costs me a little more juice. Although it's minor, but a lot off minors things makes it bigger .
Then starting Playstore and at settings, deselect Notifications.
And finally freeze stuff i don't use with Titanium Backup pro.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=31576747&postcount=105
All this, is giving me a great battery life, with screen on time between 4 1/2 to 6 1/2 hours, depends what i am doing.
And with the latest JB roms, 1 to 2% battery los in 7 hours standby.
No need for me to toggle Airplane mode, mobiledata or some other powersaving setting or app.
I am also always running the stock insecure kernel that comes with the rom, for me no need for a custom one.
Reserved
KeesStolk said:
I only save mods, roms on my internal sd in my download map and this map i move to my external sd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello, when we flash a rom that already has mods ... do you know a way to save them ? (where to find them)
I mean. For example, my rom has a mod (and theme) on the toggles (pandoriam i9305). How can I save that mod ? Do you know a good tutorial to learn (safe) modding ?
thorcyar said:
Hello, when we flash a rom that already has mods ... do you know a way to save them ? (where to find them)
I mean. For example, my rom has a mod (and theme) on the toggles (pandoriam i9305). How can I save that mod ? Do you know a good tutorial to learn (safe) modding ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never save mods because most of the time when flashing a new rom, it's based on a new build and not every time mods are compatible, just like some themes by the way.
I just safe the mod files and thems, when i am sure they are compatible, i just flash them again.
Indie's Omega roms has already a lot of mods in it by default by the way, but i don't think he was for a 9305.
Good work Kees! Now I'm learning from you.
Chris_84 said:
Good work Kees! Now I'm learning from you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your kind words, but it is l who is learning from you every day .
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
and why dint i see this , brilliant my friend .... one of the best posts , well explained and really good stuff all at one place
thanks my friend
vegeta1 said:
and why dint i see this , brilliant my friend .... one of the best posts , well explained and really good stuff all at one place
thanks my friend
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much, but from you, Chris, Indie and the rest of the omega team are the ones I learn all this great stuff every day.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
i always feel like a noob when ever i read here
big big thanks my friend for pointing out all this so nicely
Very nice posts KeesStolk. Maybe you should write a manual for us?
I'm about to post this in Q&A (searching for an answer brought me here )
I just (3 days ago) upgraded my Omega ROM to v40. All seemed fine - I did as normal but in v35, my last Omega there wasn't a Full Wipe option. I chose not to wipe and everything went as per usual with Omega. I reinstalled my extras (6 x 5 icons, Loud phone hack, Increasing ring phone, Note2 Keybd) and was back to normal.
Except, now my apps will not update.
I found out the hard way. I had a problem with Play Store - open it and it would flash briefly then close. Tried all I knew of but nothing worked so, logic said, Omega v40 is different enough I need a wipe and that why they put it in there as a choice this time. (I checked the Omega thread and couldn't see anything relevant but I was in the pub at the time and may not have been as thorough as I should have been)
I had a TB backup and Nandroid on my ExtSD from 2 days back and an EFS so I ran the install again and chose Full Wipe - again everything went well... until I tried to download TB so I could restore all my apps and data. Play Store opened and stayed Open (yaaaay!) and TB acts like it is downloading but nothing comes through - it just sits until it times out on an error.
I tried several apps and none would DL but then AuWeather DL'd just fine. I went back to TB - no go.
After much frustration I Restored my Nandroid and got back to where I was (Omega v35) but still I can't DL and update for TB. At least Play Store stays open though. I tried running the v40 update again, installing the Default, just in case, (& I have just finished DL'ing v41) but the DL/Update problem persists.
I'm now on:
AP – I9300XXEMA2
CP – I9300BUELK1
CSC – I9300LBEMA1
RF cal – 2012.6.28
HW Rev – MP 1.100
Any ideas? If I can't DL TB once I have flashed, I can't get my data back so a wipe isn't really an option until I fix the DL issues.
As I said, this will also be in Q&A but you seem to have a good grasp on the basics so I thought maybe...? :fingers-crossed:
So... I tried restoring back to v35 and got the same problem. And yet that version has been running since v35 came out, at least a couple of months. So I did it again but this time used the Android Revolution Wipe zip, then a straight install of v35. I could then load TB from Play Store and restore my apps and data. Phone seems back to normal now although I have lost some logs data from the couple of days between my backup and now - no biggie... I also now can update my apps.
So it seems it is something to do with Omega v40.
I've just DL'd v41 so will give that a try. Any help with what might have gone wrong would be much appreciated.
Thank you for your kind words, just sharing what i know and hoping this info can help others.
And how is it with v41?
Did you tried it with wifi and 3g, any difference?
Also tried removing your google account, reboot and setting it up again?
Hi kees !
Nice idea you've got with this thread but ... I hope it won't turn into another omega q&a thread . I would like to direct people here but it will be quite difficult if they will see Omega issues all over. Please point them out to the correct thread as you already posted the link to it. Just a thought , correct me if I'm wrong
Thanx !
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
xanthrax said:
Hi kees !
Nice idea you've got with this thread but ... I hope it won't turn into another omega q&a thread . I would like to direct people here but it will be quite difficult if they will see Omega issues all over. Please point them out to the correct thread as you already posted the link to it. Just a thought , correct me if I'm wrong
Thanx !
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks and you are right, but the main purpose for me, is just help others with the noobish knowledge i have and let people and myself learn and share.
I don't mind which rom people are running, that's everyone his or here's choice and i totally respect that.
I think this thread deserves to be in General, since you're not asking anything. Hit "report" and see what a mod thinks about it
KeesStolk said:
Thanks and you are right, but the main purpose for me, is just help others with the noobish knowledge i have and let people and myself learn and share.
I don't mind which rom people are running, that's everyone his or here's choice and i totally respect that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
absolutely !!!
everyone`s choice ! but people must follow proper threads , i`ve got nothing against a certain rom but against disarray when users post or open endless threads about same thing .
some users hates me for this , i know it well , in my thread i always pointed out but somehow is unfair to maintain same topic on more threads .
that`s a bad habit for new users and not only for the rule`s sake but this is the way should be in a human community .
-=-=-
i was thinking as well to open a thread as yours but due to lack of time i didn`t. as soon as i`ll find interesting things i`ll let you know .
i myself am a NOOB !
---------- Post added at 11:28 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:24 AM ----------
Glebun said:
I think this thread deserves to be in General, since you're not asking anything. Hit "report" and see what a mod thinks about it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
... and i must agree with you this time ...
Thanks guys.
@xanthrax, i know the feeling, kind off busy family
But i like your comments, just straight forward, the way i like it.
Glebun said:
I think this thread deserves to be in General, since you're not asking anything. Hit "report" and see what a mod thinks about it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think it should stay here as it "Helps" other users. General is more for discussions IMO.
But how about these?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1749214
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1827635
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1732722
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1895737
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1946481
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2041679
and that's just the first page. all of the above are for "help"