Hello....
So I am a newbie and have been doing a lot of reading on here. I am still a little confused by some of the terminology. I looked at the stickies and there isn't a place where it has all the terms together. For example, I thought that a ROM is the OS of the phone, so I am not sure how it could not contain a kernel.
Could some of your experts please define the following? And perhaps make it a sticky or add the info to one of the existing stickies.
ROM
Kernel
modem / radio / baseband
Voodoo
Odin
CWM
Thanks!
TheTinRam said:
Hello....
So I am a newbie and have been doing a lot of reading on here. I am still a little confused by some of the terminology. I looked at the stickies and there isn't a place where it has all the terms together. For example, I thought that a ROM is the OS of the phone, so I am not sure how it could not contain a kernel.
Could some of your experts please define the following? And perhaps make it a sticky or add the info to one of the existing stickies.
ROM
Kernel
modem / radio / baseband
Voodoo
Odin
CWM
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=855900
^^ #4 Stickied thread in the Development Forum.
This should have been posted in the Q&A forum btw (by the way)
shorttripp86 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=855900
^^ #4 Stickied thread in the Development Forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read that thread. There is somebody ASKING for definitions but it is not answered.
If this should be in another forum, the I apologize. However, most newbies such as me, will come into the development forum and look for stickies to learn. There are stickies but they dive right into it without defining what these terms mean.
Rom - files used/flashed that overwrite system files and flash new ones for the phone to run.
Kernel - Basically the focal point of performance and stability for the phone, also determines important phone functions.
Modem - software through which the actual radio hardware functions through, determines connectivity of radio to towers
Voodoo - name for the enhancements such as converting rfs to ext4, voodoo color, and sound specifically designed for the Galaxy S family.
Odin - PC application used to flash system files including modem, recovery, and such that the phone may not have permission to flash itself. Also used for complete restoration of phone to stock.
CWM - Clockworkmod, a recovery mode designed by Koush that enables the phone to backup and restore system files, wipe data ans cache, and mainly used to flash normally nonpermitted software (roms, themes). Allows for options not normally permitted in the regular Android recovery.
That's how I see it, anyone else care to correct if wrong?
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA Premium App
I might add that the kernel is what acts as a bridge between your phone's hardware and application level.
This Android Dictionary is pretty good:
androidcentral.com/dictionary
I don't have enough posts to hyperlink it.
I hope XDA doesn't mind, but this is also over at AC and will do a much better job than the dictionary of answering your questions.
http://forum.androidcentral.com/ver...nate-beginners-rooting-read-me-3-17-11-a.html
TheTinRam said:
I read that thread. There is somebody ASKING for definitions but it is not answered.
If this should be in another forum, the I apologize. However, most newbies such as me, will come into the development forum and look for stickies to learn. There are stickies but they dive right into it without defining what these terms mean.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright, I'll try and redeem myself from that douchey response from earlier. I'm sorry for the unneeded grumpiness, but my I'm having phone issues - and I'm sure you'll come to understand this feeling now that you're learning this stuff, and I assume will go on to flash rom's, kernel's, and inevitably recovery files via ODIN.
Here are some definitions I've "kanged" (Kang means to take somebody else's work and put it to good use. Credit is expected but occasionally not given. -djmcnz <Nexus One>) together definitions and definitions from xda members, community write-ups, and general android development guides.
Here we go...
ROMs
"First thing is a ROM - Basically in the phone world these are packages of data that contain mostly all of your stuff on the phone such as apps, settings, contacts, and all sorts of other data. The devs here at XDA develop custom roms that are streamlined and reconfigured to work better than the stock ones. They also remove all the junk apps that Verizon and Samsung include on the phone including satan himself - Bing.
[Deodexing ROMs] is just a way of re-working some of the phone's file system to allow installation of themes and other things that require a deodexed rom, it doesnt affect anything else afaik.
Some ROMs also include themes. Themes are basically just re-skins or recreations of the android UI, which are usually more intuitive and customized than the stock ones. You can always try different themes with almost any rom, its up to you which ones you like."
Kernels
"[Kernels] are essentially the coding and underlying framework that the phone pretty much runs on. They control MANY aspects of the phone and how they work, custom kernels are what really turn the speed up on this phone."
** ROM & Kernel definitions from Bawb3's <Fascinate> Beginner's Guide here: Fascinate Beginner's Guide / FAQ**
---------------
Radio (Modem/Baseband)
"The Radio [Modem/Baseband] is the software part of your device that is powering on/off and controlling your radio interfaces. This includes Bluetooth, 2G/3G Phone, WiFi, GPS..... And it also includes Radio BootLoader and other device specific firmwares needed for using your radio interfaces and for interfacing them with the OS (Windows Mobile/Android)."
**Radio (Modem/Baseband) definition from kholk's <HTC> Radio thread here: (RADIO) The HTC HD2 Master Radio Thread**
Radio (Modem/Baseband) Alternate Description
"The Radio [Modem/Baseband] is the part of the phone that deals with mobile connections. It handles talking to the 3G network, Bluetooth, WiFi and GPS. The radio contains software that controls how it operates, and newer versions of radio firmware are made available from time to time. These updates are transparent to the user, although users who elect to install custom software can update their radio using an update.zip file [or "radio/modem".tar file] made available by members of the modding community.
Flashing the radio is potentially risky, and you should NEVER pull the battery out of a phone that is flashing the radio. If you do so, it is possible your phone will be bricked. Nevertheless, it can give improved battery life, signal strength and data performance, so is often done by users moving to later versions of ROMs.
Care should be taken to only flash the correct type of radio to a phone. NEVER attempt to flash a CDMA phone with a GSM radio or vice-versa. It is likely you will brick the phone if you attempt to do so."
**Alternate <non-xda> Radio (modem/Baseband) definition from here: Alt. VROM Radio Definition**
---------------
Voodoo Lagfix
"In a nutshell, voodoo is a substitute kernel for the Galaxy S i9000 variants, and in due time for the rest of the Samsung Galaxy S family (Captivate, Vibrant etc...). The kernel provides improvements over stock user experience such as :
Lagfix - Convert /data and /system file partitions from RFS to EXT4 to increase performance and virtually kill the lag that we all hate so much.
Display/Color/Sharpness - Enhance and fine tune the amazing Super Amoled screen to provide the best results in different situations.
Sound - Improve Galaxy S sound by leveraging it’s top of the line audio chip, the way it’s meant to be leveraged.
Voodoo comes as “root ready” - You need only to install Superuser from market, and you phone is rooted.
Optimized Samsung TwLauncher - No slowness. (if you already have a different launcher, this will not prevent you from using it.)
ClockworkMod Recovery - Voodoo comes with built in version of CWM. To access it, turn on your phone while pressing VolumeUp+Home+Power
Improved ADB Shell - Support tab compleition and more.
For more info visit http://project-voodoo.org"
**Voodoo Lagfix description from <non-xda> Voodoo Community Write-Up here: Voodoo Community Write-Up (Gdoc)**
---------------
ODIN
"What is ODIN? There is a longer answer, but lets just say what it really is. It's a very simplistic program you install on your PC. With this program and a few files you can very easily restore your phone to stock. Some suggest doing this EVERY time you go from Rom to Rom.
Why do they do this? Because when you are on one ROM and you go to another, there may be "ghosts" from your previous ROM impacting the performance of your new build. That said, I have never done this... and I have never had an issue. Your choice. How to use ODIN will be in the guides section (eventually)."
**ODIN description from s15274n's <Vibrant> guide here: Noob Guide: HOW TO ROOT/ODIN/FLASH/RECOVER**
---------------
ClockworkMod Recovery (CWM)
"ClockworkMod Recovery is based off the eclair recovery image. Features include Nandroid backup, adb shell, advanced update.zip options (ignore asserts and signature checks), and file browser for choosing update.zips (you can now organize your stuff by directory.)"
**CWM Recovery description from Koush's <Nexus One> thread here: ROM Manager & Clockwork Recovery**
---------------
NOTICE:I take ZERO credit for any of the above mentioned programs. All credit goes to the original program developer(s). This is a list of definitions and descriptions. I have included referenced member citation, and links to the original post/thread/site. Original program developer(s) or cited xda member(s), please let me know if you would like something removed from this post.
---------------
TheTinRam, I hope this helps and makes up for for my sour mood earlier.
Related
I am new to Android and am attempting to experiment a bit with my brand new sgs2. This is my 3rd Android phone. I have a basic understanding of the modifcations that can be done to the OS to make it more efficient, but don't quite understand all the little details. I have already done research, I just need someone to put it into laymans terms.
Deodexing
I understand that deodexing is an almost necessary part of any custom rom. I have found scripts that will deodex the firmware for me. I see that you can deodex the filesystem and 'framework' of the OS. What else can be deodex'ed? I see that a lot of roms boast FULLY deodex'ed. What does that entail? How would I use these scripts to make my stock rom 'fully' deodex'ed. Also, from the information I have read, deodexing makes the APK actually bigger AND run less efficient. This would actually slow the OS down wouldn't it? I guess my question is, what is the actual benefit of deodexing?
Rooting
From what I understand about this device. All we have to do is flash SU 3.0 and that will root the decvice. And the only way to flash SU 3.0 is with CWM. Is this accurate? I also understand that to get CWM on the phone we need to flash it in download mode, which essentially replaces the stock recovery option. Is all of this accurate? If so, can someone point me to a thread where it will give me the proper CWM and instructions of how to flash it? I have done this on my tab 10.1 so I assume it would be very similar.
Custom power menu
Now something like this is an actual customization of the OS. What I want to know is if the power menu is just simply modified to show the additional features (reboot, recovery...) or if a whole new image has to be created to replace the stock power menu. Also, would there be any way I could take a custom power menu from another rom and insert it into my own or would I have to have one made specifically for the device?
Zipping up a ROM
Last question I promise I have a buddy who knows nothing about electronics. He wants to have the benefits of a modded rom that is slightly faster but is terrified of digging into the device because he thinks he will brick it. I was thinking about helping him but the only thing I can think of is to mod my device and create a nandroid backup of my own device and then restore it on his. Thats all I would be capable of without some guideance. How hard would it be to take my own modded rom and make it into a flashable zip rather than me try to restore a huge nandroid?
I was thinking about posing these questions directly to one of my favorite dev's via PM, but they have a lot on their plates and I didn't want to bug them. I feel like everyone in this forum is more knowledgeable than I am and there would be plenty of people willing to lend some info. Anyways thanks in advance.
Deodexing - This is something I've never done before, so I'm not familiar with the details, but the basics are: Deodexing will cause a small penalty in startup and boot times, but it makes theming and modifications MUCH easier. Theming/modding odexed ROMs is a massive pain in the ass as I understand it.
Rooting - Multiple ways to do this, I suggest reading jivy26's FAQ.
Custom power menu - I think only small parts of the framework need modding here (SystemUI.apk maybe?), and these modded parts could be flashed in CWM. However it's not something I've done before, nor do I know how to do it. Android userland is still black voodoo magic to me. I'll stay in the bowels of the system thank you very much.
Making CWM-flashable zips - also not something I can easily provide advice on. There are tutorials floating around.
Risk of bricking - as long as you don't flash bootloaders it's next to impossible to hardbrick a Samsung android device.
So essentially if Im looking to have the snappiest Rom possible which retains all of the functions and visuals of TouchWiz (no themeing or modding necessary) I would want to actually AVOID deodexing my system?
So what does that leave me with to speed up my stock Rom? OC, ram tweaks, and zip aligning?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I777 using XDA App
Edit: To try and get a little more participation and interest, the definitions as of 11/1/2011 are found below (copied with permission). Note that there are still some specifics (like Modems and Kernels) that are specific to the Galaxy S, which will be updated later.
There is an excellent post by jmtheiss in the Captivate forums; it is sticky'd in the General forum named "XDA and Android Terms and Acronyms". This is an excellent thread to reference any unfamiliar terms in the various posts here as well, since all of the general concepts are the same (although many specifics need some work.). It's a great dictionary for beginners since it eases some of the steep learning curve in deciphering the somewhat arcane terminology being used by the veterans who take for granted that the definitions they use are understood. I'll take a stab at updating this thread (assuming there is any interest) with GS II specific terminology if anyone has any suggestions, but the OP has been helpful and is still updating the post with new definitions.
I'd encourage any beginners to look through the post since it answers many questions. (I found it very valuable myself at any rate!) Note, I'll clean it up for readability later to include the links from the original post. In the meantime I'd encourage you to hit the above link to the original thread if you are seeking more information, and scroll down to see if there is a link.
Hopefully this will address a few questions, and help anyone new to the forum. I've assembled a list of terms and acronyms used on the forum below. Terms with links go to sources or threads with additional information. An item in all caps in a definition is one that I've defined elsewhere.
Use CTRL+F to find a specific term.
FORUM RELATED
SEARCH: The button just above the title of the forum or thread you are in. This should be your first resort when trying to find information. See button screenshot below.
GENERAL: This is the place for posting anything general. These include tips, ideas, comments, etc.
Q/A: This is the place for posting any questions. If you have a bug to report in a program or ROM (and have the minimum of 10 posts), post it in the appropriate thread in the ANDROID DEVELOPMENT subforum.
ACCESSORIES: This forum is for any items that attach to the physical hardware of the Android device.
ANDROID DEVELOPMENT: This is the place for posting Hacks/Mods/ROMs/Modems/Kernels. Generally reserved for developers, there is a 10-post minimum before a user can post here. This is the place to inform developers of bugs or software issues - ask questions in the Q&A subforum.
THEMES AND APPS: This is the place for posting themes as well as programs. Many applications can be interchangeable with Android Development, so use your best judgement.
FWIW: Short for "For what it's worth"
OP: Short for Original Poster, or the person who originally started the thread.
PM: Short for Private Message. Allows users of XDA to send and receive non-public messages. Accessed from USER CP.
THREAD: An individual issue page on the forum. This thing you're reading is a thread.
THREAD TOOLS: A button that allows users to subscribe and unsubscribe from THREADs. Subscriptions can be accessed from USER CP. See button screenshot below.
USER CP: Short for User Control Panel. This button near the top of the XDA page allows users to update their avatar, personal information, and signature. PMs and subscribed threads can also be checked in this location. See button screenshot below.
YMMV: Short for "Your mileage may vary".
ANDROID DEVICE RELATED
ADB: Short for Android Debug Bridge. Part of the Android Software Development Kit (SDK), it allows for ROOT-level access to the Android device from a computer.
AOSP: Short for Android Open Source Project. The open-sourced code from which individuals can build new distributions of Android.
APK: An Android executable file, similar to the .exe file in Windows. Most programs will install with a .apk file.
AUDIENCE CHIP: A voice processing chip installed on the I897/Captivate that provides noise suppression and voice quality enhancement for phone functions.
BACKLIGHT NOTIFICATION: A program that turns the LEDs behind the Menu/Home/Back/Search buttons on to indicate system events (e.g. new voicemail, etc).
BLN: Short for Backlight Notification. See BACKLIGHT NOTIFICATION.
BOOTLOADER: There are two of these that can be flashed, the primary and secondary bootloaders. These programs tell the Android device how to start up, and are critical to its functionality.
BRICK: An Android device that is completely non-responsive, i.e. nothing lights up, the screen does nothing, no combination of button presses cause any reaction. Can only be restored by JTAG, UNBRICKABLE MOD, or warranty service.
BUILD.PROP: A plain text file which contains environmental variables for the system to use during operation. Can be hacked to fake a different model for increased functionality, among many other operations.
BUSYBOX: An application that contains many standard Unix tools. Commonly used with TITANIUM BACKUP.
BUTTON COMBO: The act of pressing several buttons at the same time to produce a desired result (e.g. pushing volume up, volume down, and the power button for 10 seconds on FROYO will reboot into the RECOVERY menu). 3-Button Combo is a common example.
CLAY: An Android device that is not fully functional, but shows signs of functionality. Unlike a BRICK, the clay can be recovered without using JTAG. See also SOFT BRICK, BRICK.
CLOCKWORKMOD RECOVERY MENU: This is a program that allows you to install custom ROMS as well as do many other low-level customizations. Often referred to as the "RECOVERY MENU". See also "ROM MANAGER"
CM: Short for CyanogenMod. CyanogenMod is an Android build built from the Android Open Source Project, and its builds are usable on multiple different Android Devices.
CWM: Short for ClockWorkMod Recovery Menu. See CLOCKWORKMOD RECOVERY MENU.
DALVIK CACHE: The collection of program information stored for use by the DALVIK program. This can be cleared from the RECOVERY menu to resolve issues with the Android OS.
DALVIK: The Android operating system's memory management tool. This program handles which other programs are running and assigns memory to them
DEODEXED: Removing the .odex files from an APK file. The .odex files contain a list of dependencies for the associated file, and if something changes, the .odex (and similarly, the associated file) not longer function correctly.
DOWNLOAD: The download menu is the lowest-level interface to the Android device. Allows for full access to all flashable items on the device via the ODIN/HEIMDALL tool.
ECLAIR: The Android OS version 2.1.x. See also STOCK.
EFS: The directory /efs on the Android device's internal storage. Contains files with the Android device's IMEI, wireless devices MAC addresses, product code, and other information..
EXT4: A journaling file system (e.g. NTFS, FAT32 are file systems) often used by Linux distributions. Can be used with Android.
EXTERNAL SD: A micro SD card that has been inserted in the micro SD slot in the Android device. Can be removed.
FACTORY RESET: This will remove all user customizations in the Android OS, returning it to a factory state. Note: This will not wipe the Internal SD card.
FC: Short for FORCE CLOSE. See FORCE CLOSE.
FLASH COUNTER: New with the Galaxy S II, this is a counter accessed by pressing vol up + vol down and then inserting the USB cable to your computer. (This is done from a powered down phone and you do NOT hit the power button.) This shows the number of times custom firmware has been uploaded to the device. See here for the full discussion on what this means and how to avoid it. This can be used to show you have voided your warranty even if you have returned to full stock. There are methods around this (at least for now) by using a USB Jig, or writing the zImage directly to the device without using a bootloader.
FLASHING: The act of writing code to the Android device. ROMs, MODEMs, KERNELs, and BOOTLOADERs can all be flashed. Independent from, and having nothing to do with, Adobe's Flash product.
FORCE CLOSE: When a program on the Android device becomes unstable, the DALVIK program will force it to terminate to prevent further system instability.
FREEZE: Specific to TITANIUM BACKUP. Using the TITANIUM BACKUP tool, the user changes a program into a non-functional, but still installed, state. Useful for identifying problem and FCs.
FROYO: The Android OS version 2.2.x. This version of Android OS was released via AT&T to the captivate as an update over KIES MINI.
GB: Short for Gingerbread, the Android OS version 2.3.x.
GOVERNOR: A program that interacts with the device hardware to increase or decrease the processor's clock speed (e.g. at low usage, it will set the processor speed to 400 MHz, but as usage increases, it would scale up to 1000 MHz).
HEIMDALL: An open-source program by Benjamin Dobell that allows the Android device to be flashed back to stock or with custom software. See also ODIN.
HEIMDALL ONE-CLICK: An open-source, cross-platform, auto-dependency-installing, Linux, Windows and Mac one-click ROM deployment system based on the Open-Source project Heimdall, with multiple adminsitrative, technical and engineering controls making it much less likely to "brick" a phone then ODIN. Heimdall One-Click was created by Recognized Developer Adam Outler.
HSUPA/HSDPA: Short for High Speed (Up/Down) Packet Access. This is 3G+, and is the Android device's internet speed level between 3G and 4G.
I9000: The Samsung Galaxy international model. SImilar to the Captivate, Fascinate, Vibrant, and Mesmerize.
IMEI: Short for International Mobile Equipment Identity. A unique number to identify GSM, WCDMA, and iDEN phones. Used by GSM networks to identify valid devices.
INTERNAL SD: The internal storage memory of the Android device. Not a physical SD card that can be removed.
JIG: A piece of hardware that makes a physical connection between pins 4 and 5 of the USB slot to force the Android device into DOWNLOAD mode.
JTAG: A process of connecting directly to the main board of the Android device to rewrite corrupted BOOTLOADERS.
KERNEL: The collection of software drivers and more "nuts and bolts" programs that allow the basic functionality of the device.
KIES MINI: A Samsung-proprietary program that allows flashing of official updates to the Android OS.
LAGFIX: Changing the file system used by the Android OS (ususally to EXT4) to reduce the perceived lag in the operation of the Android device.
LAUNCHER: A program that launches programs in Android. Examples are Touchwiz (Samsung), Launcher Pro, ADW Launcher, and Go Launcher.
MODEM: The software that interfaces with the phone's radio hardware to connect to cell phone towers.
MODEM DANCE: A combination of key presses, MODEM flashes, and reboots required to force some Android devices to restrict the band use to the 850 MHz WCDMA band.
NANDROID BACKUP: A complete system image backup of the Android device except for the MODEM and KERNEL. Can be accessed from CWM.
NO-WIPE PACKAGE: A rom update package that leaves the user's market apps intact while still performing the updates to the system files. Restoring from backup is not necessary. See also WIPE PACKAGE.
NV_DATA.BIN: An encrypted file in the /EFS directory that contains the Android device's IMEI number and product code. See also EFS.
OC: Short for Overclocking. See OVERCLOCKING.
OCLF: One Click Lag Fix - a outdated method of using the EXT2 file system to reduce perceived lag in the Android OS. See also LAGFIX.
ODEX: A file that is associated with an APK file, containing a list of the dependencies for the program. See also DEODEXED.
ODIN: A Samsung proprietary program that allows the Android device to be flashed back to stock or with custom software. See also HEIMDALL.
ODIN ONE-CLICK: A version/package of the ODIN program that contains and will preload the necessary files to flash back to STOCK (usually ECLAIR).
ODIN THREE BUTTON: A version/package of the ODIN program that will FLASH the necessary files to restore the three-BUTTON COMBO used to get a FROYO ROM into the RECOVERY MENU. Only needs to be used if the user's Android device is missing the files necessary. ODIN ONE-CLICK must be flashed prior to using this package to avoid CLAY/BRICK status.
ONECLICK UNBRICK: A program developed by recognized developer Adam Outler that will release the locks on an Android device that are holding it in a CLAY state.
OVERCLOCKING: Setting the processor's clock speed to run faster than its default setting, i.e. 1200 MHz (1.2 GHz) vs 1000 MHz (1.0 GHz).
PIT FILE: Short for Partition Information Table file. One of the possible file types used while flashing with ODIN or HEIMDALL.
PRIMARY BOOTLOADER: Also known as First Stage Bootloader. The first bootloader run at boot time, this bootloader finds RAM for the Android device, and hands the boot sequence off to the SECONDARY BOOTLOADER. File name is "boot.bin". See also BOOTLOADER, SECONDARY BOOTLOADER.
RAT: Short for Radio Access Technology. This determines how the network decides the QoS (quality of service) on the connection between the Android device and the carrier's data towers.
RECOVERY: The menu that allows a user to do many low-level operations on the Android Device. This menu can either be the stock Samsung menu, or the CLOCKWORKMOD RECOVERY MENU (CWM). See also CWM.
REORIENTED: Changing the code of a KERNEL from one device (e.g. Samsung Galaxy S) so that it will function on another device (e.g. Samsung Captivate).
RFS: A Samsung-proprietary file system (e.g. NTFS, FAT32 are file systems) used on STOCK Android. Stands for Robust File System.
ROM: The collection of programs, themes, and settings that create the general look-and-feel of your Android device. This is what most users will initially be wanting to change.
ROM MANAGER: The Android OS front end program for the CLOCKWORKMOD RECOVERY MENU (or CWM). Allows use of many of the CWM features from inside the Android OS. See also CWM.
SECONDARY BOOTLOADER: Also known as Second Stage Bootloader. The second bootloader run at boot time, this bootloader handles the processes required to allow the Android device to boot the main kernel, such as file systems, memory, and MODEM. File name is sbl.bin. See also BOOTLOADER, PRIMARY BOOTLOADER.
ROOT: Changing the permission level of the Android system to its most powerful level, the root user, allowing full access to the file system.
SILVER SPEAKER: One of the most powerful and dangerous modifications to the Android device available. Can cause a variety of results, from improved signal to radioactive cats in boxes. Should not be used by the infirm or those with faulty gluons.
SOFT BRICK: This does not exist. A misnomer for a device that is not functioning correctly, but still shows some signs of operation. See CLAY.
STOCK: The Android software version that comes installed on new devices, prior to sale to the user. On the original Captivate, it was Eclair 2.1. Can also be used to refer to the Android software issued from Samsung or the carrier.
TETHER: Connecting the Android device to a computer via a wired or wireless connection to allow the transfer of data through the Android device's internet connection. Commonly used to provide internet access to a laptop or desktop computer when other methods are not desired or available.
THEME: A collection of images, backgrounds, colors, font types, and other visual items to change the Android device's look and feel. Separate from LAUNCHER, and is usually FLASHed in CWM.
TIBU: Short for Titanium Backup. See TITANIUM BACKUP.
TITANIUM BACKUP: A backup utility available in the Android Market that allows users to back up their applications, the saved data for the applications, and system settings.
UNBRICKABLE MOD: A hardware modification that removes a resistor and reconnects another resistor to the removed resistor's active pad, permanently allowing the Android device to reach a development board state. This allows reloading of bootloaders that have previously been corrupted or incorrectly installed, along with preventing the Android device from ever reaching a true "hard brick" state. Originally developed by Recognized Developer Adam Outler.
UNDERVOLTING: Setting the voltage levels drawn by the Android device to a lower level to reduce overall battery usage.
UV: Short for Undervolting. See UNDERVOLTING.
VOODOO LAGFIX: Converts /system, /cache, /dbdata and /data to Ext4 with optimized parameters for speed but also guaranteeing data integrity. Also configures the write behavior of Linux to prevent lag from happening, plus applies some memory management providing a better balance than stock settings.
VOODOO COLOR: A series of improvements to the visual elements of the Android OS. Enhances clarity, offers color adjustments, and other visual tweaks.
VOODOO SOUND: A series of improvements to the audio elements of the Android OS. Enhances audio clarity, allows for more powerful adjustment to overall sound levels, plus additional tweaks.
WCDMA: Short for Wideband Code Division Multiple Access. An air interface standard in 3G mobile communications networks that allows higher speeds and more users.
WIPE PACKAGE: A rom package that will format the portions of the Android device where the user's market apps are stored, in addition to any updates to the system folders. After a wipe package is installed, the user will have to restore apps from a backup or redownload them from the Android Market. See also NO-WIPE PACKAGE.
ZIPALIGNED: An archive alignment tool that provides important optimization to APK files. The purpose is to ensure that all uncompressed data starts with a particular alignment relative to the start of the file. Reduces RAM consumption.
ACRONYMS SPECIFIC TO MODEMS, KERNELS, AND ROMS
Note: The Modems and Kernels below are for the Galaxy S, not the Galaxy S II at this time. They will be updated later.
MODEMS
Note: most modems are referred to by the last three letters - e.g. JP3, JK3, JK4.
DTJP3: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
AOJP3: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
BVJP3: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
UGJK3: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
UGJK4: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
TLJL3: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
BVJJPD: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
XXJPY: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
UGJL2: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
BUJS1: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
ZNKP1: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
VJJPG: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
UBJP9: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
ZSJPG: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
TDVJP9: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
XXJVE: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
XXJQ1: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
UGKC1: FROYO (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
XXJVK: GINGERBREAD (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
BUJV3: GINGERBREAD (WCDMA 1900 KERNEL ONLY)
UBJV6: GINGERBREAD (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
XXJVO: GINGERBREAD (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
UGKG3: GINGERBREAD (I9000 KERNEL ONLY)
UCKB1: FROYO (CAPTIVATE KERNEL ONLY)
KERNELS
JVB: GINGERBREAD
JVH: GINGERBREAD
JVO: GINGERBREAD
JVP: GINGERBREAD
JVQ: GINGERBREAD
JVR: GINGERBREAD
KF1: GINGERBREAD
KH3: GINGERBREAD
KB1: FROYO
JPX: FROYO
JS8: FROYO
JF6: ECLAIR
ROMS
Note: These are only ROM names that use acronyms, not a complete ROM listing
CM: CyanogenMod. See "CM" in Android Device Related section.
MIUI: A Chinese built-from-source ROM. Short for "Mobile Internet User Interface". Also can refer to the MIUI music player, which has been included in other ROMs.
I'm still somewhat new to the board myself, so if I've incorrectly identified what something is or does, please let me know so I can update this post with the correct information. If you can think of any other terms or acronyms that should be included, let me know, and I'll put them up here. I've tried to give credit where it's due by direct linking, but if I've copied something and not cited properly, point it out and I'll update it.
Thanks for the tip bud.
Thanks really needed this I'm a quick learner but the terms allways help. Btw Miui is awesome!
Sent from my SGH-I777 using XDA App
Glad to help. Hopefully the thread won't get totally buried in the blizzard of posts here.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I777 using Tapatalk
If anyone can point to a post that gives information on different Galaxy S II modems and kernel's, I'll start updating the post.
Add in AFAIK (as far as I know)
IIRC (if I remember correctly)
Add...
PEBKAC: Short for "Problem Exists Between Keyboard And Chair". Describing a problem as a PEBKAC error is an assertion that the problem in question is the fault of the user.
PEBCAK, AFAIK, ID-10-T error, etc - while they might be in common use, they aren't a term that increases peoples understanding of android devices. I'd like to keep it on track.
It's not meant to be a thread of every abbreviation on the internet -- that's way too much like real work.
Added definition for FLASH COUNTER.
If you just switched from iPhone or BB or this is ur first android. Read this thoroughly and see ur questions get eliminated by this guide. if you find this helpful than show your appreciation and hit that thnx button.
I don't take any credit I Googled everything. I do take credit of modifying some stuff in word. I won't have this Phone but I am just being helpful to the community.
Little in-depth information about Android. Must Read. Thank You Pirateghost.
Pirateghost said:
Android itself is OPEN. you can go and build your very own version of 4.0 ICS right now from source code. there are very few phones you can STABLY and RELIABLY run it on though.
The NEXUS line of phones exists for a reason. they are untouched by carriers (verizon teabagged the Galaxy Nexus a little), and do not have some stupid overlay on them. they are developer devices in that it is the first phone to get android updates straight from google (no manufacturer interference required).
every other phone is tainted with a manufacturer's UI. Touchwiz on Samsung phones (galaxy nexus is a samsung but they provided the hardware not the software), Sense on HTC, 'non-blur' on Motorola, whatever Sony calls theirs...lol, LG, etc
on top of that tainted Android interface is a carrier branding or lockdown (doesnt apply to the entire world, but im only referring to US here)
so google releases new version of Android
manufacturers build phone, and customize android to fit their model (this is where android almost stops being OPEN)
carriers get a hold of the manufacturers build of android and tweak and modify it themselves (more than likely they just tell the manufacturers what they want), as you know they love to include bloat and lock it down from the user
you receive your android phone after it has gone through all those steps....long process huh? we dont get updates to newer versions as quickly because of that long process...and they would rather us buy new phones instead of improving perfectly good hardware.
Android is open in the sense that manufacturers can use it however they wish, within reason. it is not necessarily meant to be 'open' to the average end user, and manufacturers dont want you messing with the phone they built. its the reason XDA is what it is today, albeit with roots deep in WinMo hacking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ADB → Android Debug Bridge (adb) is a versatile command line tool that lets you communicate with an emulator instance or connected Android-powered device..
Android →Unveiled on 5 November 2007, Android is a mobile operating system running on the Linux kernel developed by Google.
AOSP → Android Open Source Project
Apps2SD → Move applications from the internal NAND memory on the device to a removable SD Card.
BLN → BackLight Notification
Bloatware → Software bloat is a process whereby successive versions of apps include an increasing proportion of unnecessary features that are not used by end users, or generally use more system resources than necessary, while offering little or no benefit to its users. Like all the crap that comes from At&t
Brick → When used in reference to consumer electronics, "brick" describes a device that cannot function in any capacity (such as a device with damaged firmware). This usage derives from the fact that some electronic devices (and their detachable power supplies) are vaguely brick-shaped, and so those which do not function are useful only as actual bricks. The term can also be used as a verb. For example, "I bricked my phone when I tried to modify its firmware."[
Hard Brick → When your phone does not turn on at all. When you can’t get in to CWR/CWM Or Stock recovery. You are basically screwed.
Soft Brick → When your phone bootloops. When you can get into CWR/CWM. When You can use jigtag to get into download mode.
Busybox → BusyBox provides several stripped-down Unix tools in a single executable. It runs in a variety of POSIX environments such as Linux, Android, FreeBSD and others, such as proprietary kernels, although many of the tools it provides are designed to work with interfaces provided by the Linux kernel. It was specifically created for embedded operating systems with very limited resources. Platforms counterparts, but they are pretty close and useful nonetheless.
CWR OR CWM ClockworkMod Recovery →A custom recovery for Android phones and tablets that allows you to perform several advanced recovery, restoration, installation and maintenance operations on your Android device that aren’t possible with the stock recovery.
DEODEX → Apk files have respective odexes that devs use to supposedly save space. Deodexing means you convert it back to a .dex file and put it back inside the apk. This allows you to easily replace file (not having to worry about odexes), but the main point was to deodex services.jar so that you can change all text to different colors (such as the clock color to white) and to deodex services.jar, you need to deodex everything.
Flashing → The process of applying a firmware image (or ROM) to a device. It generally entails a very specific order of steps. Failing to complete any one of these steps properly may result in bricking the device.
Firmware → is a term often used to denote the fixed, usually rather small, programs and/or data structures that internally control various electronic devices. Programs stored in the ROM, EPROM, or flash memory that usually control various internal electronic devices (Hard Drives, Keyboards, Displays, etc). Firmware is typically 'fixed' software that is not updated in consumer devices, however it is often updated (or 'flashed') by advanced users to fix bugs or add features to the device. Flashing firmware designed for one device onto a different device, or not following a specific procedure while flashing will often render the device unusable.
Kernel → is the main component of most computer operating systems; it is a bridge between applications and the actual data processing done at the hardware level. The kernel's responsibilities include managing the system's resources (the communication between hardware and software components
Radio → The cellular radio on the device which needs control software called firmware to control it.
ROM → Read Only Memory. In the context of an Android device, ROM is the internal flash memory where the core operating system resides. It can also refer to a specific version firmware that can be applied to a device through a process usually referred to as flashing. An improperly flashed ROM can often brick the device, rendering it unusable.
Superuser→ A program, which gives unlimited access privileges to perform any or all operations on the operating system.
ODIN → Odin is the Samsung software used to update Samsung phones. It does not work with any other devices other than official Samsung phones.
OTA or FOTA → (F)OTA stands for (Firmware) Over The Air and is the process by which required updates and enhancements to your phone's basic operating system can be sent to you through the cellular network. The Galaxy S II software update will be sent via FOTA and is available through Samsung Kies mini.0
ODEX → In Android file system, applications come in packages with the extension .apk. These application packages, or APKs contain certain .odex files whose supposed function is to save space. These ‘odex’ files are actually collections of parts of an application that are optimized before booting. Doing so speeds up the boot process, as it preloads part of an application. On the other hand, it also makes hacking those applications difficult because a part of the coding has already been extracted to another location before execution.
SDK → Software Development Kit.
Logcat → A debugging tool built into Android devices that displays system logs as they occur. See Logcat.
NANDroid → A set of tools that will enable anyone who has root on their Android device to make FULL system backups, in case something goes wrong or you want to try out that new experimental ROM/theme. NANDroid will backup (and restore) /system, /data, /cache, and /boot partitions.
Recovery Mode → A special environment that you can boot into for troubleshooting and upgrading purposes.
Kang → The process of creating a code based of someone else's code or reapplying code that someone else created into your own code (e.g. git cherry-pick)
Rooting → is a process that allows users of mobile phones and other devices running the Android operating system to attain privileged control (known as "root access") within Android's Linux subsystem with the goal of overcoming limitations that carriers and manufacturers put on some devices.
How to Root Your note????
There are two root methods for YOUR ATT GALAXY NOTE!
1 which uses kernel to root.
2 This one flash with Odin but in system level not boot kernel.
#1 root by Da_G!
Da_G said:
Hi!
This kernel enables custom boot animations (/system/media/sanim.zip), adb root, init.d support, runs a script to auto-root your /system partition, and then you're on your merry way
You may need the USB Drivers available here. (Support & Downloads for SGH-I717)
Once the USB Drivers are installed, power off the phone, then hold volume down and power it on, you'll get a screen asking you to hit vol up to continue, do so. This puts the phone in download mode.
Stick the provided pda.tar in the PDA box of Odin3 1.85, flash away!
Install Superuser from the market after booting.
Note that this will increase your flash counter, which is presumably used by Samsung as a reason to decline warranty service (not aware of any reports of this occuring yet...?)
Don't forget the donate link in my signature if you found this useful and want to motivate me to work on overclock/undervolt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
#2 Root by mashi!
How to backup your current ROM????
Hard Way!
Get into CWR!
Scroll down to backup and restore!
Press backup.
How to Restore Your backup????
If You used ROM manager than!
Go to manage and restore backups!
And press the one you like to restore!
If you have Nandroid than!
Go to CWR!
Scroll down to backup and restore!
Press restore!
How to Flash a ROM????
Basic Steps
! Choose the ROM that you want and download its .zip file
!! Transfer the zip file to your phone’s sd card. Do not put it into any folder.
!!! Turn off your phone and reboot into recovery, usually by holding the down button and power button at the same time.
!!!! Do a Nandroid backup
!!!!! Wipe the phone 3 times by clearing cache/factory restore 3 times and wiping dalvik cache and system format
!!!!!! Flash the zip file that you put on your sd card
!!!!!!! Reboot phone
You can find all ROMS here!
How to flash Kernel with CWM????
_Download the Kernel You want to flash and put it in sd card.
__Boot in to CWM!
___Wipe cache & Dalvik Cache
____Press install from Sd card!
_____Select the kernel that you dloaded!
______Flash it!
_______Reboot!
________Check in CPU SPY to see if you successfully flashed Kernel.
You can find Kernels in development forum.
These will set you back to Stock and Unroot Your phone.
Da_G said:
Hi,
This is an odin .tar prepared with the stock AT&T Kernel, System, and Recovery.
Flash it from odin using the same instructions as my root thread
After flashing, you may need to boot into recovery by powering off, holding vol up + vol down, and holding power until you get into recovery. Then perform a factory reset, this should get you up and running after most brickery.
Note that this is a large file (~450MB), please spare my web host if you don't particularly need it
Download .rar here
Below are stock kernel-only odin tars:
AT&T stock kernel-only odin pda tar
TELUS stock kernel-only odin pda tar
Bell stock kernel-only odin pda tar
Rogers stock kernel-only odin pda tar
Don't forget the donate link in my signature if you find this useful
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very cool thank you! I will finally be upgrading from an iP 3G!
LOL . . . . ever since I got it no phone really wowed me until I saw the G Note in November. Anywhoo. . . I was hoping for a noob friendly guide like this
appdroid said:
reserved 1
How to Root Your Skyrocket????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure why do i need to know how to root the Skyrocket for the ATT Note here? just saying
Sry just fixed it.
sweetboy02125 said:
Not sure why do i need to know how to root the Skyrocket for the ATT Note here? just saying
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
look at you go! haha good work !!!
I figure this is the least i can do to help young community here!
00mred00 said:
look at you go! haha good work !!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tx appdroid, us noob's really appreciate it!
(in all my years i never seen the "Reserve" post idea b4...it was a DUH moment for me lol)
Excellent guide for us that are really green on the Android platform.
thank you for helping this noob
appdroid said:
I figure this is the least i can do to help young community here!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm just so young and I need your help
How do you permanently change the hostname on Android?
On CyanogenMod ROMs this is easy, there was an option for it in Applications -> Development Options. But I don't know what hooks that uses and I don't know how to do it on this flavor of Android we have.
Thanks for your post, it help me a a lot. I done a little scripting on unix using mostly tcl. I hope I can get back on it and develop a few applications for this phone once I have it on march.
Thanks!
Thanks for the noob thread. Switched over from an iP4 and its taking a little getting used to. Luckily I already had the Revue and TF101 to help a little.
On a side note I found the http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1505062 root method was very easy and didnt involve the counter getting screwed up or having to flash a whole new rom. Highly recommend it for anyone just wanting to root their device.
ANother Android Newbie
Coming from IP4 and looking forward to learning hot to make Android work for me.
How do I read your "Reserveds"???
Do Not Post Question in General Post in Q&A CLOSED
I'm not super educated, but I'm pretty sure I can explain the fundamentals of it (correct me if I'm wrong anyone)...
The Android operating systems runs ontop of a linux kernel... and just like any other linux distribution, there is a particular set of low level system files that you, the user, by default, don't have access too. This is to prevent you from breaking anything, as well as to prevent malicious software/intruders to compromise the security of your file system.
These same low level system files, however, are useful for many things. In order to make changes to a lot of things (overclock your processor, tweak speed and battery life, sometimes sideload applications outside the market; although most devices let you do this without rooting now, and in most cases install a non-stock system image).
This system image is known as a ROM; a rom can be pulled from another device and then modified to work on your own, or in some cases can be an original release from Google (Known as an AOSP) which is then 'cooked' by a developer to work on your device.
If you're familiar with reinstalling or installing Windows, it's a pretty easy concept. Once a device is rooted, a custom recovery can be flashed to the device. This custom recovery allows you to flash over your stock system image with a new ROM.
Rooting is basically taking control over your device for what can be installed, deleted, or altered.
Here is a link to give you much more info on rooting:
http://m.androidcentral.com/what-rooting
For the Moderator who moved this thread, please contact me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am currently working on this: It is a work in progress. Many things will be updated as this goes on. I will publish it before it is ready mainly for you to know that I am doing this and to delete it before it is too late if you think it just isn't as good as I imagine it .
It could be useful to note that the dictionary may not be exactly correct, I can make mistakes and you can correct me too, if you are sure of what you say. Also, keep in mind that I define the concepts by what I understand from them and simplifying the language as much as I can for EVERYONE to understand every word.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Credits:
ShortFuse.org - SuperOneClick
ClockWorkMod Installer - rect2409, xda user
Contents:
1. Introduction
2. Dictionary -In permanent update as needed-
3. Getting started
/3.1 - Rooting
/3.2 - Getting your Recovery - CWM Recovery
/3.3 - Avoiding Baseband issues --Uncomplete--
1. Introduction:
Hey there, x10 Mini Pro community. First of all, the cheesy part, I would like to say thanks to the developers that have been in the main scenario since I came here, D4, slade, paul, nAa, TheMiltos, and lots of them whose usernames I should start looking for, but it is not like I do not recognize them. First, you may ask why would I make this thread if there is already another one, made by not less than one of the users I mentioned before. Well, I started on this community like on January 2011, when slade's Gingerbread was brand new and the Froyo ROMs were just getting a bit stable and ready for everyday use. I found it pretty difficult to start, since I've noticed that the support for newbies isn't kinda.. "the way" of xda. At least, when I was one of them, I felt pretty alone on this unknown roads, and also felt guilty to send a PM asking for help, not being able to post - and that was just when I finally decided to create an account... I spent hours and hours searching on Google, watching videos on Youtube, trying to understand what did they meant with all this technical language -disregarding the fact that my native language doesn't help at all (Luckily, my English is pretty good)-, reading blogs, and so on. I had to keep this intensive study for several weeks to, finally, get my very first custom recovery installed. And that was just the first step. Besides my own experiences -which are, by the way, the main reason for me to start thinking about a thread like this-, I noticed that all the particular problem solution threads just get lost within a month.
So, what am I looking for with this thread? What are the objectives?
-Full and friendly support for newbies to ask and be answered.
-Freedom to PM.
-Detailed step-by-step instructions, maybe even with screenshots later on.
-Some kind of a "dictionary" with words all over the Android development spectrum.
-Updated information.
-Make all of those lost tutorials and guides spread all over the x10 Mini Pro forums be compressed in one simple and extensive help center.
-End with the experienced ones complaining about newbies questions infinite cycle by creating this "encyclopedia".
-Maybe, just as an early idea, we could create a support team, whose purpose is pretty self-explanatory.
-Hope to add more objectives on the future.
2. Dictionary:
-Android Versions: Check Wikipedia for closer details on each version.
--> Cupcake 1.5: First public version of Android.
--> Donut 1.6: Initially the Stock version for our phones.
--> Eclair 2.1: Updated Stock version for our phones.
--> Froyo 2.2: Follow up to Eclair with some modifications
--> Gingerbread 2.3.x: Most widely used version by the moment.
--> Honeycomb 3.x: Version mostly for tablets
--> Ice Cream Sandwich: 4.0.x: Hybrid version, designed to unify Cellphones and Tablets OS.
--> Jelly Bean 4.1.x: It is still a rumor and it has not be released nor even confirmed yet, but it is still very likely to be true.
-APK: File extension used for Android-based applications. You can use them to install a specific application if you want to install it manually and not from the Market.
-Back-Up: It is a file made via Recovery that saves the ROM along with all the user data (Settings, applications, contacts, text messages...) on your SD to recover it later, just in case that something went wrong. It is sometimes referred as NAND Backup. NOTE: Every Back-Up is pretty heavy, and if you make another does not delete the previous one, so I recommend to delete the old/unneeded ones to save space on your SD.
-Boot: To turn on your phone.
-Bootloader: It is a part of the operating system that boots up your device and sets everything up to load Android, so your phone can boot and start as usual. Unlocking it allows us to flash custom kernel, which usually come with improvements compared to stock one.
-Brick: A Bricked device is a device that won't boot. It can be a full brick, when the phone just does not turns on, or a partial brick, where it turns on but it can not get to fully boot. A partially bricked phone can behave in many different ways while booting, for example, sometimes they get frozen at the Bootloader or sometimes they make a Bootloop. To Unbrick your phone means to get it back to normal from this state.
-CyanogenMod: Most commonly called by it's abreviation, CM. It is the most famous Android-based custom ROM, with both official ports to many devices and unofficial ports to almost every Android phone.
-Flash: To flash. It means to install something on your phone, this something can be a ROM, a Module for that ROM, can be almost anything. Any file we want to flash will be on a ZIP format, and it is made through your phones Recovery.
-Google Apps: Or GApps. Some of the apps developed by Google. They come in packages to flash them via Recovery. These apps include Android Market/Play Store, Google Maps, Youtube, Gmail, etc.
-Launcher: It is the application that is used by Android to show up your apps, homescreens, wallpapers, widgets, etc. Home Replacement Apps are alternative Launchers for you to install on your phone, and they can offer a major UI change (often used for more personalization).
-Overclocking: Commonly abbreviated OC. To overclock something means to make it run faster than the default speed set by the manufacturer. On computers, it can be applied to almost any component, on phones, it almost always is talking about the processor.
-OS: Short for Operative System. It is the "everything" of a computer. Mac and Windows are two really famous OS's you probably have used more than once. Well, Android is an OS too, and there are other OSs alternatives for phones too like Windows Phone, iOS and Symbian. The difference is much more than in the appearance thou, but it doesn't really matters to go further on this. Android haves different versions, and just like Windows haves Windoes 97, Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7; Android has 1.6 Donut, 2.1 Eclair, 2.3 Gingerbread and 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich (These are just examples, there are more).
-PC Companion, Flashtool, SEUS:
These are three common tools for your computer to update, flash or un-brick (alias revive) your phone.
--> PC Companion: Program by Sony Ericsson to update and save your Rom or parts (settings etc.) or to send media on your device
--> Flashtool: User-made program (credits to Androxyde and Bin4ry) to root, flash and set up many more things on your device.
--> SEUS (or Sony Ericsson Update Service): Program by Sony Ericsson to update or repair your official ROM. This is often the last chance to revive your bricked device, making me think if the "S.E.U.S." acronym is unintended or if it is actually made it to sound like the mythical god Zeus.
-Port: A ported ROM is a ROM, both custom or stock, that is available to some specific phone and someone manages to make it work for another device. Usually it includes changes like matching the desired device's screen and supporting it's own hardware.
-Reboot: Just turning off your device and then turning it back on, waiting patiently for it to completely load everything.
-Recovery: I usually call it a BIOS for my phone. It is not an application like Facebook or SMS, it is a program that can be optionally started while booting by pressing a certain key, in our case, we have to button-mash the "Back" button (Gamers will get that, it means to repeteadly tap the button). Your phone will enter a menu with black background and orange letters. Touch screen is not available here and the Menu button, the left one, serves no purpose at all. To control everything, you use the volume buttons at the side of your phone as Up/Down respectively, the Home button (the middle one) works as Enter and the Back button, the right one, is used to go back, as you might imagine. Recoveries are used to flash any flashable file to your phone. To exit and return your phone to normal, just back until the main menu and select Reboot Phone. It will reboot normally, and CWM will not show up unless you call for it with the back button.
-ROM: Its basically the OS that we install in our phones. It can be Custom or Stock: Stock ROM is the version that came with our phone, created by Google and then modified by your phone's brand company and then by your carrier, to go to your phone on it's original closed package. Also we have Custom ones, that are user-modified versions of Android. Every ROM in xda is a Custom ROM because they are developed by the user who uploaded it. We call it ROM because it resides in the ROM (Read-Only Memory) of our devices.
-Root: The first thing you must do over any Android device to get the full potential of itself, is rooting. Android, in basic terms, is based on Linux. Yes, that OS for computers you've probably heard of (If not, don't worry. You don't need to know about it.). And it is running just in your hand. On Linux, you need to get SuperUser permissions over a set password to make changes on the computer like installing programs and such things. On Android, you do not get his password and by default it is blocked, and rooting your phone means that you get this SuperUser access. Yes, if you are the one who goes exploring the phone 'till the last folder and modifying everything you possibly can, you will surely mess your phone up. But don't worry, if you just Root your phone and let TRUSTED apps to do their stuff, you are safe. What do I mean by trusted? With Root permissions you can do whatever you want on your phone, and so do Applications. You should just install applications whose developer you know you can trust, such as xda or market developed applications. Remember to always check the comments or posts people do reviewing their experience with that application, and beware if anyone tells so. Anyways, people is not that dumb and they have made the phone ASK for your permission before giving any new app the so called Root access.
-Run: To open a certain program or app. Can be used as "Running" for a certain program or app that is actually open, and so on.
-Stock: It refers to something that comes pre-installed on our devices, available when we just get them from the manufacturers.
-UI: The User Interface is the system shown on the screen of a device for you to interact with it.
-Undervolt: Usually abbreviated UV. It is the opposite of Overclocking, and, on phones, it consists of lowering the default voltage of the processor to make it run slower and thus decrease battery consumption.
3. Getting Started:
3.1 - Rooting
Steps:
-You can't imagine how easy and quick rooting can be. The first step, is to enable "USB Debugging" on your phone. I am going to be honest, I don't know what the **** is this, but keep it enabled. Always. Hehe. To do this, go to Settings and then under the Applications tab. Then, scroll down and go to Development. And there it is, you should tap "USB Debugging" once to get it checked and activated.
-Then, you need this software (Don't worry: it is free and very light, and you can just delete it after root). It is called SuperOneClick and this is the lastest version (2.3.3) until now. This is a screenshot of the interface that I grabbed from the original site. Install and open SuperOneClick, and continue to the next step.
-Now, with the USB Debugging enabled on the phone and SuperOneClick running on your computer, grab your USB cable that should have come along with your phone as your charger and connect with it your PC and your phone. On the phone it should show a message asking what to do, you should tap the option to charge the phone (This option is kinda "do nothing", it is the same as charging it from the wall). Now, go to SuperOneClick and click the big "ROOT" button. It should do all the work, so your task is to wait. Wait until it says it is ready and rooted, and then reboot your phone.
-Voile! Your phone is now rooted.
3.2 - Getting your Recovery - CWM Recovery
Steps:
-First, download this little program. It is a small Batch file (Commands for Windows) made by a user on this community called rect2409. On the original thread -Link under credits- you have a Linux version of this program, but I'm afraid have never used it and you will have to figure it out by yourself (Linux experienced-users encouraged to review over here). Extract the ZIP file and go into the folder you just extracted.
-Open install.bat. Batch files can be dangerous on the wrong hands but very useful on the right ones, so if any anti-virus or some kind of a security system tries to block this from working, tell them it is safe. You have my word (It wasn't even uploaded by me, so you can be sure I'm doing no trick here ). It will open a small black window with white text, follow it's instructions and answer it's questions. When it asks you for yes or no (Y/N), you have to write Y for yes or N for no and then press enter.
-When it says "If no errors are listed above then CWM has been installed. Finished.", you can close the window and delete everything you downloaded if you want. Everything you need on your phone is now there, so there's no problem if you want to delete this stuff.
-If you want to access CWM (That's how your new Recovery is called), you have to reboot your phone and at the "Sony Ericsson" text screen, press the "Back" button several times.
3.3 - Avoiding Baseband issues --Uncomplete--
Intro:
Your Baseband is a pretty large code that can be checked on your phone by going to settings and scrolling sown to "About phone". There, just like it says your Android version on a grey section, it should say your Baseband version on another. It should be a large code using both letters and numbers in a format like this ?????-????????-????? (? representing anything and - being itself, whatever it is called -I don't know it's english name-). What really matter are the last three digits, that have to be -015. If you have that, skip this step, because you are already done: The problem is when you have -006 (Like I had) or anything else, if it is possible. The point is that you NEED -015 Baseband version.
Steps:
-Of course, first make sure you have a wrong version of the Baseband, if you have the correct one, skip section.
-When you are sure you need to change your baseband, you have to change your "build.prop". Build.prop is a file hidden by the system, accessible via Root, that holds and manages some information and configuration about the phone. So, the first thing you need to do, is to get...
---To be continued---
Users who have helped:
karthiks.840 - ImInMunichBitch -
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For Dictionary,
-ROM: Its basically the OS, we call it ROM because it resides in the ROM of our devices.
-Flashing: To install a new ROM. Basically any ROM will be in a zipped format. It can be flashed via any "Recovery".
-Recovery: A piece of program that can be optionally started on booting (In our devices by pressing "Back" button multiple times, when the device is turned on)
Just a quick suggestion: Everything you so far wrote is also applicable to the Robyn (X10Mini, E10i). If you keep it this general, you might consider posting this in the General Section, and maybe a mod could make it a sticky. Since this is not really about actual development, it looks kind of out of place in the development thread.
But keep up the good work
@nico444164: Thanks nico444164! This is probably the BEST thing I have ever seen on XDA - and I've been here since Mikevhl 's FroYo rom early 2011 (he was one of the main devs for x10 mini Pro) , followed by owain94 , slade87 , and paul-xxx who all slowly took over (over their predecessor's) one after another, slowly. I've never seen such a noob-friendly guide here at xda and I agree with your sentiment about it just not "being the way" it is here at xda. Frankly, it should be though and this thread by you is a hopefully a good indicator of/catalyst for xda slowly changing for the better. Cheers nico444164!
Suggestions for dictionary:
CyanogenMod:
Most famous Android-based custom rom of all times with many official and unofficial ports for many Android devices.
Brick:
Device doesn't boot anymore (fullbrick) or partially (halfbrick --> often bootloop to SE logo). Caused by wrong or incompatible changes in system related parts of Android (or many others as we know by now).
Stock:
--> Stock Rom: the operating system of our devices, how we get it from the manufacturer
--> Stock Kernel: same as Rom
Bootloader:
That part of the operating system, which boots up your device and sets everything on boot, so your Android can work as usual.
Unlock it allows us to flash custom kernel with improvements compared to stock one.
PC Companion, Flashtool, SEUS:
All three are tools for your computer to update, flash or revive your phone.
--> PC Companion: Programm by Sony Ericsson to update and save your Rom or parts (settings etc.) or to send media on your device
--> Flashtool: custom programm (credits to Androxyde and Bin4ry) to root, flash and set up many more things on your device
--> SEUS (or Sony Ericsson Update Service): Programm by SE to update your official rom (often the last chance to revive your bricked device)
Back Up:
Same as on a computer; saves the rom and its settings on your SD to recover it, when something went wrong (all usually via Recovery).
Android Versions:
--> Eclair 2.1: Stock version for our phones
--> Froyo 2.2: Follow up to Eclair with some modifications
--> Gingerbread 2.3: Mostly used version for our custom roms
--> Honeycomb 3.x: Version mostly for tablets
--> Ice Cream Sandwich: 4.x: Hybrid version for phones and tablets
APK:
File extension used for android based applications, if you want to install them manually and not from the market.
Launcher, Home Screen Replacement:
The application that is used by android to show up your apps, homescreens etc. Replacement apps take over those things (often used for more personalization).
A2SD, APP2SD, Link2SD:
Apps that allow you to free up your system memory by moving (non system) apps to your SD. Many custom roms implemented this in native settings.
GAPPS:
Commonly used google apps. Often in packages to flash them via recovery after installing a custom rom.
(Market/Playstore, Maps, Youtube etc.)
OC, UV:
-->Overclock (OC): used to get higher cpu values (decrease battery life but may increase performance).
-->Undervolt (UV): used to get better battery life by decreasing the voltage used by the cpu.
Just a few suggestions for this thread here.
I like the idea, would be a good sticky to new users, because this forum is
so high under development that many users forget that new ones may never heard of basic android knowledge.
Corrections are always welcome, hope my english is not that bad
Keep it up.
Marius
karthiks.840 said:
For Dictionary,
-ROM: Its basically the OS, we call it ROM because it resides in the ROM of our devices.
-Flashing: To install a new ROM. Basically any ROM will be in a zipped format. It can be flashed via any "Recovery".
-Recovery: A piece of program that can be optionally started on booting (In our devices by pressing "Back" button multiple times, when the device is turned on)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Added! Just changed some words I just thought should make a section for the users that help. Will do that in a few minutes.
SmG67 said:
Just a quick suggestion: Everything you so far wrote is also applicable to the Robyn (X10Mini, E10i). If you keep it this general, you might consider posting this in the General Section, and maybe a mod could make it a sticky. Since this is not really about actual development, it looks kind of out of place in the development thread.
But keep up the good work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, that rooting process is kinda global. I thought about making this post a bit more general, but I wanted to start by little and taking my time, so maybe in the future I will ask someone to change it to General and I will add some info about each phone in details, if this gets to grow enough.
Also, I thought maybe this wasn't the place since it is not development, but:
-As a noob, I just checked this thread since I thought the others were exclusive for the Robyn.
-This is still particular to Mimmi.
-I have seen several tutorials and guides related to this on the Mini Pro development section, so I thought that if I am not the only one and it doesn't really hurts to have it here, it should be no problem. Besides, if this didn't work and get to be a real fail, it will just be forgotten with every other old posts out there
nightwing369 said:
@nico444164: Thanks nico444164! This is probably the BEST thing I have ever seen on XDA - and I've been here since Mikevhl 's FroYo rom early 2011 (he was one of the main devs for x10 mini Pro) , followed by owain94 , slade87 , and paul-xxx who all slowly took over (over their predecessor's) one after another, slowly. I've never seen such a noob-friendly guide here at xda and I agree with your sentiment about it just not "being the way" it is here at xda. Frankly, it should be though and this thread by you is a hopefully a good indicator of/catalyst for xda slowly changing for the better. Cheers nico444164!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your message and support! And yeah, I hope noobs can find their basic ways here on xda, at a single and simple thread, as you might have wanted. I did, at least It would be only better if we could include all this novice people into this real complex world of development, even just as users.
ImInMunichBitch said:
Suggestions for dictionary:
CyanogenMod:
Most famous Android-based custom rom of all times with many official and unofficial ports for many Android devices.
Brick:
Device doesn't boot anymore (fullbrick) or partially (halfbrick --> often bootloop to SE logo). Caused by wrong or incompatible changes in system related parts of Android (or many others as we know by now).
Stock:
--> Stock Rom: the operating system of our devices, how we get it from the manufacturer
--> Stock Kernel: same as Rom
Bootloader:
That part of the operating system, which boots up your device and sets everything on boot, so your Android can work as usual.
Unlock it allows us to flash custom kernel with improvements compared to stock one.
PC Companion, Flashtool, SEUS:
All three are tools for your computer to update, flash or revive your phone.
--> PC Companion: Programm by Sony Ericsson to update and save your Rom or parts (settings etc.) or to send media on your device
--> Flashtool: custom programm (credits to Androxyde and Bin4ry) to root, flash and set up many more things on your device
--> SEUS (or Sony Ericsson Update Service): Programm by SE to update your official rom (often the last chance to revive your bricked device)
Back Up:
Same as on a computer; saves the rom and its settings on your SD to recover it, when something went wrong (all usually via Recovery).
Android Versions:
--> Eclair 2.1: Stock version for our phones
--> Froyo 2.2: Follow up to Eclair with some modifications
--> Gingerbread 2.3: Mostly used version for our custom roms
--> Honeycomb 3.x: Version mostly for tablets
--> Ice Cream Sandwich: 4.x: Hybrid version for phones and tablets
APK:
File extension used for android based applications, if you want to install them manually and not from the market.
Launcher, Home Screen Replacement:
The application that is used by android to show up your apps, homescreens etc. Replacement apps take over those things (often used for more personalization).
A2SD, APP2SD, Link2SD:
Apps that allow you to free up your system memory by moving (non system) apps to your SD. Many custom roms implemented this in native settings.
GAPPS:
Commonly used google apps. Often in packages to flash them via recovery after installing a custom rom.
(Market/Playstore, Maps, Youtube etc.)
OC, UV:
-->Overclock (OC): used to get higher cpu values (decrease battery life but may increase performance).
-->Undervolt (UV): used to get better battery life by decreasing the voltage used by the cpu.
Just a few suggestions for this thread here.
I like the idea, would be a good sticky to new users, because this forum is
so high under development that many users forget that new ones may never heard of basic android knowledge.
Corrections are always welcome, hope my english is not that bad
Keep it up.
Marius
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Adding them right now And about the last thing you said, yes, it is so hard to join this community as you may all know, at least for users with no knowledge at all over any complex computer language. I consider myself an advanced-user, and even as that I had troubles at getting started. I can't imagine how hard it would be for a non-geek to flash something on their phones! EDIT: Added!
A very good guide for newbies! Will help a lot of people here! Ah, the old days, I remember, the first time I tried installing xREC I messed up and it wouldn't boot, scared the **** outta me xD had to do some reasearch before I could get back to normal. So this would be of great help!! Keep up the effort!
P.S: debugging mode is actually development mode. It allows transfer of data between the PC and the mobile. That's how you are able to run adb commands ( things like rooting, pushing APKs etc.) through the PC onto the phone!
Sent from my U20i using XDA
Wow... The guide is so complete... Even I don't know what I can add there xD
Hmm... How about adding some simple default tricks ?
I found that several user are asking how to backup their data... How about telling them how to upload their phonebook data to gmail and backup their apps through titanium backup ?
I think we can have some "unlocking bootloader" infos in here, as latter ROMs need to have custom kernel installed...
You can refer about the steps to unlocking bootloader in here :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1462278
Hope that helped everyone
speedsys said:
A very good guide for newbies! Will help a lot of people here! Ah, the old days, I remember, the first time I tried installing xREC I messed up and it wouldn't boot, scared the **** outta me xD had to do some reasearch before I could get back to normal. So this would be of great help!! Keep up the effort!
P.S: debugging mode is actually development mode. It allows transfer of data between the PC and the mobile. That's how you are able to run adb commands ( things like rooting, pushing APKs etc.) through the PC onto the phone!
Sent from my U20i using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yees! That old days haha! I did exactly the same, me and my friend got our pretty new phones bricked
, so we were kinda.. O.O! Oh, divine SEUS. And about the Debugging stuff, I will add it tomorrow - Its kinda 2am here and tomorrow is another fun Wednesday to keep the awesome routine, hurray.
StardustGeass said:
Wow... The guide is so complete... Even I don't know what I can add there xD
Hmm... How about adding some simple default tricks ?
I found that several user are asking how to backup their data... How about telling them how to upload their phonebook data to gmail and backup their apps through titanium backup ?
I think we can have some "unlocking bootloader" infos in here, as latter ROMs need to have custom kernel installed...
You can refer about the steps to unlocking bootloader in here :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1462278
Hope that helped everyone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is not a bad idea to add the tricks, but this is quite a big job and I would like to finish keep my objectives clear and then start thinking of adding something else haha And bout the bootloader, yes, it will be added, my plan is to cover every single change available to your phone from complete Stock, Rooting and Installing Recoveries already written. Next I will introduce Custom ROMs, flashing aditional features like Hotfixes or Modules for specific ROMs, unlocking Bootloader, Custom Kernels, and so on. And maybe reviews about the best ROMs for the user to choose from what he best likes. Something like that is what I have in mind by now.
Sent from my U20i using XDA
Install CWM : error: protocol fault (no status)
rooted xperia X10 mini.
USB debug on
phone connected to pc in charge mode.
When I run install.bat for CWM (3.2 in manual), I get an error during first exploit. Here's the complete trace from install.bat:
Code:
ClockWorkMod Recovery Installer for X10 Mini Pro by rect2409.
Requirements and credits are listed in the README.txt file.
Please make sure requirements are met before continuing.
Please make sure that your phone is connected to your PC and USB debugging is en
abled.
Press any key to continue...
Is your device ROOTed? (Y/N):y
Starting ADB Server.
* daemon not running. starting it now on port 5037 *
* daemon started successfully *
Pushing exploit to gain ROOT access.
426 KB/s (585731 bytes in 1.341s)
error: protocol fault (no status)
Mount system as R/W.
Do you already have a recovery installed? (Y/N):n
Pushing recovery tar file.
1898 KB/s (5027840 bytes in 2.586s)
Pushing chargemon.
130 KB/s (1341 bytes in 0.010s)
Pushing busybox.
2175 KB/s (735308 bytes in 0.330s)
Setting permissions for recovery tar file.
Setting permissions for chargemon.
Setting permissions for busybox.
Mount system as read only.
Reboot phone.
Stopping ADB Server.
If no errors are listed above then CWM has been installed.
Finished.
After the error is displayed, I got sounds on my pc and phone just like when I disconnect usb then reconnect it. Then the program continue (ask whether a recovery is already installed).
I don't think CWM has been installed: actually, when i press back many times on my phone while starting, nothing happens : normal boot from SE.
Can anybody help ?
Looks like you haven't got the adb drivers so its not actually pushing anything. Can't remember how to install the, now but I think its a package included in flash tool that you use.
X10man
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
x10man said:
Looks like you haven't got the adb drivers so its not actually pushing anything. Can't remember how to install the, now but I think its a package included in flash tool that you use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have installed drivers found in flashtool drivers 1.0.2, but still get that same error :
Code:
Pushing exploit to gain ROOT access.
1111 KB/s (585731 bytes in 0.514s)
error: protocol fault (no status)
Please help.