[Q] more problems with a China phone - Galaxy S II Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

so the long story well done to the short version is I just bought the galaxy S2 in China. It was supposed to be a European version. But the manuals were from the Arabian Peninsula and it is not in the original configuration. the question is: can I easily get it back to its original configuration and is it worth doing so?
It's been flashed or routed I'm not sure what the differences with the combination of English/Western-based programs and Chinese-based programs. It doesn't suffer from the afflictions of the legit Chinese copies that don't have the Google apps, although they have been blocked. ( just came to Hong Kong for a few days so I know that they working)
What is missing: Swype ( the manuals mention this) and other Samson apps. I honestly don't know what I'm missing out on widgets etc. because they're not there. Samsung app store is only in Chinese
What's extra: a bunch of Chinese bloatware/crapware and an app called "super share" that the antivirus program LookOut labels as malware. this really concerns me considering how linked the phone is with Google. it cannot be uninstalled even with other uninstaller programs. this goes the same for many of the Chinese apps including the Chinese version of Opera.
I wrote a post about it here (edit it won't let me post a link. Just search metafilter.com for "newbie Samsung android astrill" to find the post)
I'm incredibly naïve about all of this and of devoted as much free time as I can to try to solve this problem. the phone also has the clockwork mod and Odin. As outlined in the linked post I tried Odin but then it just froze for several hours. I looked online and it looks like I am supposed to something my computer also but it's so incredibly complex I'm afraid to mess it up.
Should I try the clockwork mod to restore to factory defaults? Will it?
Before I do this , is there any easy way to get any pictures/videos I've taken off of the phone and or otherwise backup the apps? (I've purchased a few.)
finally, as a side note the battery only seems to last for about five hours under sustained use. Was I taken in that they switched out the battery?
sorry for so many questions. Spent a total of 20+ hours on this now with no good results and only going deeper and deeper in the rabbit hole. I just wanted to avoid going to iPhone, but didn't imagine it would be so difficult. I was expecting that I was going to get a true European version of the phone when I bought it.

Should I try the clockwork mod to restore to factory defaults? Will it?
Factory defualts = last firmware flashed not original firmware .
Before I do this , is there any easy way to get any pictures/videos I've taken off of the phone and or otherwise backup the apps? (I've purchased a few.)
Pics Video copy and paste through the usb cable mass storage mode .
Apps are downloaded again if they are bought market apps .
You need to confirm what product you have product Code under the battery .
Firmware dial *#1234#
also settings about phone .
I was expecting that I was going to get a true European version of the phone when I bought it.
Thats what you need to find out first .
jje

thanks for the fast reply.
I'm googling for USB mass storage right now and will try that.
underneath the phone:
model: GT-I9100
SSN:-I9100GSMH
Information from typing in *#1234#:
PDA: I9100ZCKI2
phone: I9100XXKF1
CSC: I9100ZHKI2
build info: Mon Sep 5 13:02:24 KST 2011

2011universal said:
thanks for the fast reply.
I'm googling for USB mass storage right now and will try that.
underneath the phone:
model: GT-I9100
SSN:-I9100GSMH
Information from typing in *#1234#:
PDA: I9100ZCKI2
phone: I9100XXKF1
CSC: I9100ZHKI2
build info: Mon Sep 5 13:02:24 KST 2011
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would say on that that it would accept any European firmware exact same model as Europe version according to the figures but with China Firmware on it . ZC KI2.
International firmware here .
Stock Roms .and csc
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
This is guesswork from the codes posted your choice as to flashing a different firmware . I think i would want advice from China user who has gone the same route to be 100% sure .
jje
jje

JJEgan said:
I would say on that that it would accept any European firmware exact same model as Europe version according to the figures but with China Firmware on it . ZC KI2.
International firmware here .
Stock Roms .and csc
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
This is guesswork from the codes posted your choice as to flashing a different firmware . I think i would want advice from China user who has gone the same route to be 100% sure .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but I am confused. If it can take same firmware as Europe, why use a Chinese firmware? This was an illegal import as far as I know, so it shouldn't have the same problems as the "Chinese" models right? I also read the post about "ZCKI2 now available on KIES server" and it refers to ones "sold in China". I am assuming that means the official ones.

2011universal said:
Thanks, but I am confused. If it can take same firmware as Europe, why use a Chinese firmware? This was an illegal import as far as I know, so it shouldn't have the same problems as the "Chinese" models right? I also read the post about "ZCKI2 now available on KIES server" and it refers to ones "sold in China". I am assuming that means the official ones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It sounds like it is a legit euro version just been taken to china and flashed with a Chinese rom for the Chinese user.
You say you have clockwork recovery on it yes? what version is it? (boot into clockwork recovery to find out)
if you have clockwork you have a few options,
You say odin keeps hanging but you can get rid of the Chinese firmware via flashing a rom thru clockwork.
Imho the best thing to do is backup your rom with clockwork, wipe data, cache + dalvik cache under advanced then flash Villain rom through clockwork (closest to stock but optimized)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1198334
and you should be on Euro region firmware with root and a clean slate to start from.
hope this helped, if you need any more info just let me know

I think i would want advice from China user who has gone the same route to be 100% sure .
That was in regards to Modem and CSC to use .
jje

@mnissteve
CWM is 4.0.0.2
I can't even understand the link you linked to. Never flashed before and I don't know the terminology referenced, but I could give the link to someone who can perhaps do the flashing.
Would there be any reason that a stock rom (saw the thread) would be bad for my phone? (Assuming that I can get the place to do it)

Somebody here has managed to use cyanogen mod on there sgs2 with the same rom as you
http://forum.cyanogenmod.com/topic/32284-help!my-sg2-dont-boot/
so i assume it will work but as jje said your best to check and get advice from China user before trying this! also and if your determined to fix this you need to understand some terminology!
As long as it is an orig euro sgs2 this will work.
-Download Villain zip and place on internal memory card
-boot into clockwork.
-go to backup and restore and do a backup
-go bk to main clockwork menu
-wipe data
-wip cache
-wipe dalvik cache advanced
-instal zip from sd
-pick Villain zip
-reboot when complete
-????
-profit
Make sure this really is orig euro sgs2 before doing this!

Related

Chile thread UHKE (Chilean 3G carriers: Entel, Claro, Movistar, VTR/Nextel/GTD)

Hi,
I have a Chilean Entel PCS i9100. Looking at the data below it looks like the firmware is pretty old and based on KE1.
There is no problem in changing to the latest generic XEU, e.g. KF2.
XEU is generic Europe; What about the CHE CSC?
*#1234#:
PDA: I9100UHKD7
PHONE: I9100UHKD7
CSC: I9100CHEKD7
Build Info: Wed May 4 13:33:54 KST 2011
Kies DeviceDB registry:
ProdCode: GT-I9100LKLCHE
HIDSWVER: 9100UHKE1/I9100CHEKE1/I9100UHKE1/I9100UHKE1
Thanks,
zyxeu
P.S.: The original Chilean firmwares can be found at Intratech's [ROM + Guide] threads:
Branded stock firmwares, e.g. CHE, CHT, CHL:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1113928
Unbranded stock firmware, e.g. CHO:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
Chilean CHEKE1 CSC now available to download.
The mans just posted .
jje
Download the Frankenstein XWKE7 firmware package and instead of using the multi-CSC package included with it download and use the CHEKE1 CSC.
Thank you very much Intratech.
Hi zyxeu,
I have the same Chilean Entel firmware. Have you managed to update the firmware to KE2 or KE7? and if so did you use Odin?
On other post you mention upgrading the firmware through Kies using "Check Fus Downloader"
Saludos,
Mguel
Hi mguel,
Yes, I changed my Chilean Entel PCS SG2 to XE7 generic XEU and it works.
I did not change the CSC to the Chilean one.
I upgraded the firmware using the Intratech way with his instructions, tools(Odin), and firmware, which he provides in this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
In my case after the first firmware download using Odin the device got stuck with an endless Samsung logo boot. This happened to me twice or thrice during firmware downloading. To get around this I always used the following method from post #7 here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1104515
This three firmware download always got the device back to working state!
The order that I have used to update, root, simunlock:
1.) Updated to XWKE7 XEU generic (http://www.multiupload.com/IBRBHDUDXI)
2.) Had to fix the endless loop with the "3 file" method then I did the step 1.) again and it worked
3.) Removed SD and SIM card and then did a full reset *2767*3855# to reset the internal CSC to XEU
4.) Did step 1.) again as recommended to ensure CSC setting really gets changed and everything is in sync
5.) Rooted the device using Chainfire's CF-Root 3.5 KE7 kernel from his thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399
6.) Back up your /efs folder as mentioned in this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...&highlight=efs
7.) Unlocked the simlock using Chainfire's unlock app and from android market that uses Odia's method, a Movistar/Claro SIM, and had to do it like this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1106496
So far everything went well and if a problem occured I just used step 2.) to go back to a working system and did all the steps again.
If you are using Chainfire's CF-Root 3.5 KE7 kernel and plan to use a corporate Exchange Activesync account this thread will interest you to fix the boot endless loop that results: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1107457
Basically you overwrite Chainfire's CF-Root 3.5 KE7 kernel with a KE7 stock kernel. Root and Busybox are still working afterwards but I do not recommend the use of CWM, because I do not know how far it is anchored with Chainfire's kernel.
I recommend you to download all files mentioned above beforehand (and the Chilean UHKE1 files just in case).
NEVER USE PIT OR REPARTITION IN ODIN!
As long as you can get in the "firmware download" mode your device can be saved and is not bricked.
There is a way to reset the custom firmware download counter and remove the yellow "!" with a micro USB connector and some resistors (look at intratech's ROOT AND ROM GUIDE thread).
And finally if you need your original Chilean firmware for warranty issues (Claro/Movistar/Entel) check post #10 here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1098738
The efs backup is necessary, e.g. if you end up with a bad IMEI and/or ProductCode, which seems to be fixeable: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=881162
Wow, thanks a lot for the detailed answer!!
Although I rooted and flashed my previous androids, the infinite loop you got 2 or 3 times scares me a bit... so I'll study thoroughly the method before, wainting if entel releases a firmware update in the meanwhile... but as I read somewhere entel is not too active in releasing updates :/, and I like to test different ROMs. Although with the hardware aceleration features of the Samsung firmwares and the fact that I like how it work in general (hated motoblur on my previous phone), I'm not sure if I will test many ROMs but certainly I like to keep my phone updated.
Thanks again for the answer!
Mguel
PS: we should start some sort of chilean SGS2 community.
Dear friends,
I had a Chilean´s movistar version and come with the following firmware:
PDA:UHKE4
PHONE: UHKE2
After read a lot in the forum, i decided and flashed to a custom rom ( VillainRom 1.1 and later to kernel CF-Root 3.5 KE7), all going very charming and rooted everything. I do it following with a youtvbe video ( if you need, plese PM)
Hope it´s usefull your
mguel said:
Wow, thanks a lot for the detailed answer!!
Although I rooted and flashed my previous androids, the infinite loop you got 2 or 3 times scares me a bit... so I'll study thoroughly the method before, wainting if entel releases a firmware update in the meanwhile... but as I read somewhere entel is not too active in releasing updates :/, and I like to test different ROMs. Although with the hardware aceleration features of the Samsung firmwares and the fact that I like how it work in general (hated motoblur on my previous phone), I'm not sure if I will test many ROMs but certainly I like to keep my phone updated.
Thanks again for the answer!
Mguel
PS: we should start some sort of chilean SGS2 community.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I have had bad luck and got problems, because I tend to reset to factory settings when upgrading the device.
So you can see that even if there are problems, like in my case, you can bypass them and get everything working. That is what makes me really happy and confident about the SGS2.
It looks like there is now a boot loop sticky thread with different instructions by pulser_g2: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1108499
Ok, so far so good.
I'm doing step four of your sequence...
I didn't get any loops, but I got stuck on factory reset until I realized that I should have removed the SD-Card and the SIM-Card :/... after that the factory reset went smoothly, and now I'm with the "vanilla/stock/entelless" firmware!!!
Happy to see the samsung boot screen animation and not the dull and flat entel logo.
If I do a *#1234# I get:
PDA: I9100XWKE7
PHONE: I9100XXKE4
CSC: I9100XEUKD1
Build Info: Wed May 18 16:08:22 KST 2011
So I suppose I did it fine
Now I'll root it.
Thanks again zyxeu
Now also rooted!
So I'll be able to install Titanium Backup!! I was missing it (3 days without it )
Now I'll add Entel's APN, add google account, reinstall apps... etc (with frequent CWM backups)
Edit: strange... the APNs are there... the same that where set when just bought the phone: bam.entelpcs.cl. OT: do you know the difference between using the bam.entelpcs.cl or the imovil.entelpcs.cl (with my previous phones I use the imovil. I believe with my first android I used the bam one until on the browser I start having a sort of entel toolbar on top all the time and on all pages... switching to imovil solved that issue)
mguel said:
Now also rooted!
So I'll be able to install Titanium Backup!! I was missing it (3 days without it )
Now I'll add Entel's APN, add google account, reinstall apps... etc (with frequent CWM backups)
Edit: strange... the APNs are there... the same that where set when just bought the phone: bam.entelpcs.cl. OT: do you know the difference between using the bam.entelpcs.cl or the imovil.entelpcs.cl (with my previous phones I use the imovil. I believe with my first android I used the bam one until on the browser I start having a sort of entel toolbar on top all the time and on all pages... switching to imovil solved that issue)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congratulations, now others can follow your steps too.
It looks like BAM is for WAP devices and IMOVIL for devices which browser can handle full HTML, e.g. look under "¿Qué es una APN?" here:
http://ayuda.entelpcs.cl/PortalAyud..._nfpb=true&_pageLabel=P4801255431229114952095
zyxeu said:
Congratulations, now others can follow your steps too.
It looks like BAM is for WAP devices and IMOVIL for devices which browser can handle full HTML, e.g. look under "¿Qué es una APN?" here:
http://ayuda.entelpcs.cl/PortalAyud..._nfpb=true&_pageLabel=P4801255431229114952095
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right thanks again!
PS: I would suggest (for reference for others) to edit the post where you number the steps you used, and add something like:
3.) Remove SD and SIM card and then did a full reset *2767*3855# to reset the internal CSC to XEU
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
or add it at the beggining, but I at least, couldn't do/finish the factory reset until I removed both cards.
mguel said:
You're right thanks again!
PS: I would suggest (for reference for others) to edit the post where you number the steps you used, and add something like: or add it at the beggining, but I at least, couldn't do/finish the factory reset until I removed both cards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Done.
Thanks for the comment.
Great!
By the way having the XWKE7 should make future update process easier I believe… It won't be necesary to wipe user data/factory reset since we will be keeping the same CSC, or not?
mguel said:
Great!
By the way having the XWKE7 should make future update process easier I believe… It won't be necesary to wipe user data/factory reset since we will be keeping the same CSC, or not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you are right.
Chainfire has found a Samsung bug ("To those interested, the problem was faulty filesystem creation in init.rc ... in other words, Samsung made this issue.") that leads to the loop. He fixed the issue in his CF-root latest v.3.7 kernel: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399&page=34
kei_kusanagi published also the remaining Chilean firmware version codes:
kei_kusanagi said:
EntelPCS Chile:
I9100UHKE1/I9100CHEKE1/I9100UHKE1/I9100UHKE1
ProductCode=CHE
Movistar Chile:
I9100UHKE4/I9100CHTKE3/I9100UHKE2/I9100UHKE4
ProductCode=CHT
Claro Chile:
I9100UHKE2/I9100CHLKE3/I9100UHKE2/I9100UHKE2
ProductCode=CHL
Chile Unbranded:
I9100UHKE2/I9100CHOKE1/I9100UHKE2/I9100UHKE2
Product Code: CHO
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&p=14465711
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=14688503&postcount=43
zyxeu said:
Chainfire has found a Samsung bug ("To those interested, the problem was faulty filesystem creation in init.rc ... in other words, Samsung made this issue.") that leads to the loop. He fixed the issue in his CF-root latest v.3.7 kernel: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399&page=34
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So maybe that was the cause of the problems I had on the Factory Reset step, instead of not having removed the sd & sim card...
The bug has to do with the "Factory Reset problem"... so if I'm not planning to do another factory reset (at least before updating to a new firmware to come)... is there a need to flash the same firmware version?... do the bug causes any other problem? (I searched and I didn't find info on other problems that it could cause)
thx for the guide!!! it helped me a lot,
i didnt had the bootloop all worked fine and fast
PDA: I9100XWKE7
PHONE: I9100XXKE4
CSC: I9100XEUKD1
Build Info: Wed May 18 16:08:22 KST 2011
Bacán ver chilenos aquí....
Nice to see chilean out here!!!
lauchon said:
Bacán ver chilenos aquí....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Estamos bien los 33 en el refugio con una galaxy s2 ctm!!!!
jajajaja
PS: Chilean joke

SGS2 Canadian Thread (Bell/Virgin/Sasktel/Rogers) Root/Unlock/Firmware/Modems/Mods

Button Combos:
Download Mode: Volume Down+Home+Power
Recovery Mode: Volume Up+Home+Power
Once in recovery use volume keys to navigate, home button to select and power button to go back
Official Firmware Version
PDA: I9100MUGKG2
Phone: I9100MUGKG2
CSC: I9100MBMCKG2
Product Code: GT-I9100LKMBMC
Unlock
Galaxy_S Unlock App by Helroz found here https://market.android.com/details?id=com.helroz.galaxysunlock&feature=search_result.
Rooting
CF-Root Thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399
We do not have a CF-Root version of our kernel so just flash any kernel using the instructions provided in the link and flash the stock kernel back (found below). Root will remain as well as the CWM app but you will loose clockwork mod recovery.
Alternative method:
Zergrush exploit: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=803682&highlight=zegrush
Yellow Triangle Removal
Tutorial can be found here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1193091
Alternatively you can use a Jig as it also resets the custom Rom counter
I9100 Secret Codes
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1193285
All links below are for Gingerbread 2.3.3 MUGK2
Stock Bell/Virgin Modem
Directions: Use Odin and place .tar file in "phone" section
Download
Mirror: Download
Stock Firmware
Download
Mirror: Download
Stock Kernel
Directions: Place .tar file in PDA section using ODIN
Download
Mirror: Download
Bell CSC
Directions: Flash with Odin in CSC section
Download
Mirror: Download
Additional Modems:
Some users are experiencing better Gps/Reception with the KH3/KI3 modem
Directions: Unzip file and flash modem.bin with Odin under "phone" section
I9100XXKH3-Download
I9100XXKG6-Download
I9100XXKI1-Download
I9100XXKI3-Download
I9100XXKI4-Download
*CWM Compatible Modems can be found here
Flashing Instructions​
How to install the latest firmware on your phone. This will also get rid of Bell's bloatware:
1) Make sure you have working drivers installed on your computer. If you do not, the easiest way is to download Kies and it will install it for you.
2) Install Odin 1.85 on your computer (attached at the bottom of this post)
3) Pick any firmware version you would like to flash from Intratech's thread linked here. The firmware is arranged from oldest to newest so the last ones are obviously going to be the newest.
4) Start Odin in "administrator" mode and make sure Kies is not running in the background. Use task manager to check
5) Place your downloaded firmware .tar or .md5 file into the PDA section in Odin. Make sure re-partition is not selected. Auto reboot and reset time should be selected by default.
6) Remove any external sd cards and the sim card from your phone (precaution) then reboot into download or hold volume down + home + power key. If a warning pops up press the volume up key to continue.
7) Connect your phone to the computer with the USB cable. You should see the I.D:Com port turn yellow.
8) Once you are certain everything is where it should be, select START. Once the process has completed your phone will re-boot. Exit out of Odin. That's it!
Optional (Rooting)
9) If you wish to root your will need to download a cf-root kernel that matches the firmware you just flashed from here. For example if you flashed XXKI4 then you will need to download the cf-root kernel that ends with XXKI4
10) Restart Odin and place the kernel .tar file in the PDA section, connect your phone and press START.
Alternative TWlaunchers​
Since upgrading to 2.3.4/2.3.5 firmwares, some (including myself) have noticed some lag/stuttering when flipping through homescreens. I find that this gets worse when using the program monitor widget. I put together some alternatives that I pulled from the US variants of the Galaxy S2.
I have tested them and they have pretty much eliminated the issue. I personally find them much smoother. These are stock Twlaunchers with no mods. The files can be found at the bottom of this post. Requires Root.
Directions: These files a deodexed but will work with Odexed Firmwares (I tested on 2.3.5) Make sure to download another launcher and use it as your primary. While using an alternative launcher, back up the twlauncher.apk and .odex files under system app then the libglcanvas.so under system/lib. Then delete twlauncher.odex. Boot into CWM recovery and flash the new twlauncher. If you do not have CWM recovery you can also unzip the file and drop the .apk into system/app and the .so into system/lib.
AT&T
App version: 2.3.4
Features: Long press on menu button brings up search. Endless scrolling through home screens. Option to set app drawer alphabetically.
Epic 4G Touch (Sprint)
App version: 2.3.4
Features: Option to set app drawer alphabetically.
T-Mobile Galaxy S2 (Hercules)
App version: 2.3.5
Features: Long press on menu button brings up search. Endless scrolling through homescreens and widget selection screen. Option to set app drawer alphabetically.
credits: Intratech, x-cimo
Is there a way to turn off the sound (music) when the SGS2 starts?
mpsrent said:
Is there a way to turn off the sound (music) when the SGS2 starts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no sound when the phone is in vibration/slient mode.
How to root sgs2 from BELL (GT-9100M)?
details steps plz for a beginner
turki_00 said:
How to root sgs2 from BELL (GT-9100M)?
details steps plz for a beginner
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
-Download and install ODIN on your PC.
-From XDA, download the kernel CF-Root-SGS2_ZS_OZS_KG2-v4.1-CWM4.zip(ZIP.File)
-unzip the above file and it will unzip itself to CF-Root-SGS2_ZS_OZS_KG2-v4.1-CWM4.tar (TAR File)
-Fire up ODIN and under 'PDA' browse to the above mentioned .tar file.
-Place your phone on download mode (either USB jig, or boot it up while holding vol down+home+power)
-once in download mode, plug in to the computer.
-everything should be default settings in ODIN,butmake sure repartition and flashlock IS NOT ticked.
-click start
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
DONE
BTW, Im not sure if this is just for Rogers users but I tried disabling 'fast dormancy' and it actually slowed down my upload link connection. Not sure about Telus, or Bell users but it would be worth a shot to test as it helps drastically with battery life.
SMS Time Stamp Fix
I'm sure most already knows this but just I just wanted to post this here.
For anyone on the Rogers network (or any network that is affected) that is experiencing their text messages coming in 4 hours behind, download this free app in the market called time stamp fix and set the offset hours to 4. Link: https://market.android.com/details?id=com.mattprecious.smsfix&feature=search_result
KayvinM said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399
Currently the best 3 choices that is closest to our firmware version are:
CF-Root-SGS2_ZS_OZS_KG2-v4.1-CWM4.zip
CF-Root-SGS2_JP_XSG_KG2-v4.1-CWM4.zip
CF-Root-SGS2_XX_OXA_KG2-v4.1-CWM4.zip
Note: You will not be able to revert back to the stock kernel until Samsung releases our Firmware
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CF-Root-SGS2_XX_OXA_KG2-v4.1-CWM4.zip is not even close to our version of android. It is a 2.3.4 kernel. Just because it says KG2, doesn't mean it's the same. That only refers to a single geographical area's release for a month. I'll explain:
The rom letter versions are actually based upon 5 letters, not 3. There are several variants of KG2. Basically, the Samsung naming convention is as follows:
Model name: I9100M
Provider/Area: UG (Bell/Virgin/Sasktel)
Rom Version: KG2
Now, the rom version can get broken down into each letter as well...
K = 2011
G = July
2 = 2nd version that month.
All area's roms are developed completely separate from each other...
Ours is UGKG2. Which is unavailable for download from the Samsung servers, so we're not able to actually get back to stock, or make any kind of custom firmwares/kernels based upon it.
All the other ones, including ZS, JP, and XX are completely different roms and kernels than what we have on our Bell phones.
The KG2 that either of those 3 kernels are based on are either 2.3.4 roms or different 2.3.3 roms. So, matching that is no different than installing a KG1 or KG3 or any KF* CF-Root kernels. ChainFire has not made a CF-Root based upon UGKG2 yet, so no matter what one you install, it's not based upon our rom, meaning you can basically install ANY CF-Root Kernel and as long as your phone still works with it, it doesn't matter. All the roms are completely different and the naming convention has nothing to do with each other unless all 5 letters/numbers match up.
Lesson of the night???? Just because a pile of uninformed people on a forum agree about something, it doesn't make it correct...
KayvinM said:
I'm sure most already knows this but just I just wanted to post this here.
For anyone on the Rogers network (or any network that is affected) that is experiencing their text messages coming in 4 hours behind, download this free app in the market called time stamp fix and set the offset hours to 4. Link: https://market.android.com/details?id=com.mattprecious.smsfix&feature=search_result
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have also found that upgrading KG3+ will solve the issue.
Electroz said:
CF-Root-SGS2_XX_OXA_KG2-v4.1-CWM4.zip is not even close to our version of android. It is a 2.3.4 kernel. Just because it says KG2, doesn't mean it's the same. That only refers to a single geographical area's release for a month. I'll explain:
The rom letter versions are actually based upon 5 letters, not 3. There are several variants of KG2. Basically, the Samsung naming convention is as follows:
Model name: I9100M
Provider/Area: UG (Bell/Virgin/Sasktel)
Rom Version: KG2
Now, the rom version can get broken down into each letter as well...
K = 2011
G = July
2 = 2nd version that month.
All area's roms are developed completely separate from each other...
Ours is UGKG2. Which is unavailable for download from the Samsung servers, so we're not able to actually get back to stock, or make any kind of custom firmwares/kernels based upon it.
All the other ones, including ZS, JP, and XX are completely different roms and kernels than what we have on our Bell phones.
The KG2 that either of those 3 kernels are based on are either 2.3.4 roms or different 2.3.3 roms. So, matching that is no different than installing a KG1 or KG3 or any KF* CF-Root kernels. ChainFire has not made a CF-Root based upon UGKG2 yet, so no matter what one you install, it's not based upon our rom, meaning you can basically install ANY CF-Root Kernel and as long as your phone still works with it, it doesn't matter. All the roms are completely different and the naming convention has nothing to do with each other unless all 5 letters/numbers match up.
Lesson of the night???? Just because a pile of uninformed people on a forum agree about something, it doesn't make it correct...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lesson learned and post edited. Thank you for bringing it to my attention.
I have a friend with a Bell branded GS2 which he unlocked by buying a code to use on the Telus network. He wants me to upgrade it to 2.3.4 for him this weekend, but doesn't want it rooted.
I have an international unbranded GS2 and have flashed numerous firmwares. I have kept mine unrooted and have only flashed official leaked firmware via Odin (no custom ROM's). Can I update his the same way without rooting? I realize his model number will change (GT-I9100m to GT-I9100) and that he won't be able to go back until the Bell ROM is posted. I'm just not sure if there is any difference because his phone is branded and mine isn't.
No difference at all. Go ahead and install 2.3.4. Our phones are exactly the same as the international version. It's an I9100M due to Bell's firmware.
Sent from my GT-I9100M using XDA App
I am a TELUS customer with a Bell SGS2, and everyone I call or who calls me experiences an echo on their end. I did some research and found that it was actually my phone that was the problem. People said they were able to rectify the problem by disabling "Noise Cancellation", however, the only way I've been able to find to disable it is within the call itself, which means I have to disable it in every call.
Does anyone know how to disable Noise Cancellation permanently? Thank you!
Hi KayvinM and Electroz, I'm from Canada and I ordered my S2 from Newegg.ca, so my phone came factory unlocked and right now I'm running it on the Telus Network.
My phone is running on the UK firmware but I would like to use a North American firmware.
My questions is that would I be able to run any firmware from any region I want without damaging my phone?
And witch firmware is the latest one for the Canadian region?
Here's the details for my SCS2:
PDA: I9100XWKF3
Phone: I9100XXKE7
CSC: I9100XEUKD1
I posted a thread about this yesterday but I didn't get much help, so I really appreciated if you guys can help me.
Thanks in advance.
Sobai said:
I am a TELUS customer with a Bell SGS2, and everyone I call or who calls me experiences an echo on their end. I did some research and found that it was actually my phone that was the problem. People said they were able to rectify the problem by disabling "Noise Cancellation", however, the only way I've been able to find to disable it is within the call itself, which means I have to disable it in every call.
Does anyone know how to disable Noise Cancellation permanently? Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Weird thing is I had this exact issue a couple of days ago. What kernel do you have installed at the moment?
id_mew said:
Hi KayvinM and Electroz, I'm from Canada and I ordered my S2 from Newegg.ca, so my phone came factory unlocked and right now I'm running it on the Telus Network.
My phone is running on the UK firmware but I would like to use a North American firmware.
My questions is that would I be able to run any firmware from any region I want without damaging my phone?
And witch firmware is the latest one for the Canadian region?
Here's the details for my SCS2:
PDA: I9100XWKF3
Phone: I9100XXKE7
CSC: I9100XEUKD1
I posted a thread about this yesterday but I didn't get much help, so I really appreciated if you guys can help me.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey id_mew, you can run any firmware you would like without damaging your phone. Just make sure you read up lots and you are comfortable with the process and using Odin. Also avoid using any .pit files when flashing unless it's called for. All the firmwares can be found in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278 As off right now the latest canadian firmware is bell's/virgin UGK2 which is 2.3.3 based. Problem is if you are not currently on this firmware, you wont be able to flash it because it hasn't been released yet. As to my knowledge the latest official firmware is XXKG5 (poland based) and KG7 (Brazil) which was released earlier this month. Here is one the threads I found regarding ithttp://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1200044 As far as I understand there is no difference between the European and the Canadian version of the sgs2. Both phones make use of the same cell tower frequencies, meaning you should have no issues running a european based firmware here in canada. It just comes down to personal preference. Hope I was able to help
KayvinM said:
Weird thing is I had this exact issue a couple of days ago. What kernel do you have installed at the moment?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PDA: I9100XXKG5
PHONE: I9100XXKG5
CSC: I9100OXAKG5
Kernel: [email protected] #20
I only flashed the kernel yesterday which made my battery life so much better (20 hours of use with data/wifi/gps turned off most of the time) but still had echo problems before flashing the Kernel. I know its the noice reduction feature because when I disable the feature the person I'm speaking to no longer hears the echo. I just wish I knew how to disable it for good, rather than every time I answer a call.
As many of us is waiting for UGKG2 the stock bell rom, will it be available eventually? Quite a few people I know need that rom to revert so the phone can be send back for repair if need be.
Sent from my GT-I9100M using XDA Premium App
shuweee said:
As many of us is waiting for UGKG2 the stock bell rom, will it be available eventually? Quite a few people I know need that rom to revert so the phone can be send back for repair if need be.
Sent from my GT-I9100M using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's whenever Samsung plans to make it available. They might someday, or they may never. Other cellular firmwares are readily available, so I don't see why the Bell firmware won't. My guess is that the firmware will probably be released when Bell releases a new firmware with 2.3.4.
So where is this site or server that I can go check for firmwares
Sent from my GT-I9100M using XDA Premium App

[Q] Debrand, etc. [A] How to root GT-I9100T (Australian user)

Hey everyone,
First post, n00b question - please be gentle.
First, I'll start with a positive. I have come from using an iPhone, and I was quiet comfortable with jailbreaking and cydia. I now have a Samsung Galaxy S 2 / II (GT-I9100T). I am from Australia, and on the Telstra network. Whoever is in the same boat would know it is quiet an adjustment, but you can root! (if you wanted to know).
I followed this persons 3 part guide and with sucess:
I cannot post the link but it is on YouTube and the video title is:
How To Root The Samsung Galaxy S II - Part 1
How To Root The Samsung Galaxy S II - Part 2
How To Root The Samsung Galaxy S II - Part 3
Username is mattj101101
I had Android 2.3.3 installed.
Second part is a question, is there any debranding roms / kernals that is ok for the GT-I9100T? I have tried the *#272*IMEI# but it only had 'Preconfig - TEL'
My phones info:
PDA: 19100TDVKF4
PHONE: I9100TDVKF2
CSC: I9100TTELFK3
My Kernal version, after the root is 2.6.35.7-I9100XWKDD-CL161513root<insertATsymbol>DELL103 #2
Hopefully with these answers I can help other fellow people out with this particular model (that are sold in Australia). Also if someone has the stock Telstra rom for re-flashing (if needed for warrenty) please point me in the right direction.
Thank-you.
Hey,
Ive got the GT-I9100T from Vodafone (both can run on the telstra bandwidth now ) and have had no issues flashing most roms. Only thing you may notice is the new modems aren't as good as the stock ones you currently have, so you may need to reflash the original modem through odin to get the best support.
Before you do flash though, make sure you back up your /efs folder, it contains the bin files for your IMEI for your phone, and people have reported flashing a rom can change that, so beware! also, before you do flash, try find the stock telstra rom for your phone incase you need to reflash. There are a few threads about it all, so good luck
The i9100T can use i9100 roms, but it will change the product code to i9100.
Easiest way to root is using CF-root, match the part of the version number in bold "PDA: 19100TDVKF4"
My phones info:
PDA: The rom/kernel
PHONE: The modem/radio, responsable for signal quality and speed, you dont need to match this to rom version, and the best way to find a good one is to test different ones.
CSC: APN settings and bundles apps, no need to match this, but if you do chose to all you may have todo is enter your APN settings for internet and MMS manually.
You can flash any rom onto any SGS2 via odin, see this guide, that will debrand etc.
Also, you rooted using a very old insecure kernel, people have had random reboots with that one, I suggest you flash back your stock kernel (you will keep root) or flash a version of cf-root (you will gain clockworkmod recovery, a way to flash roms/etc from your phone, and nandroid, a whole phone backup system, like snapshots)
I would recommend flashing DarkyRom2 on your S2. Runs fast, stable and great battery life. It roots your phone as well and changes your kernel to SuperCore which has a lot of optimisations.
Instructions:
Since you're not rooted (stock firmware/kernel)
1. Flash SuperCore_1.7.tar with Odin (put in PDA and do NOT tick repartition)
2. Get DarkyROM2 Tool and Superuser from market
3. Upload DarkyROM2_XXKH3_Base_R2.zip to SD-Card (INTERNAL)
4. Open DarkyROM2 tool. Accept SuperUser access request notification (this confirms you are rooted.
4. Under the DarkyRom tab, be sure "Wipe User data" is selected AND "INSTALL MODEM" is NOT SELECTED. (this will wipe everything from your phone but keep your stock KF4 modem. Any other modem causes signal problems for our I-9100T. )
5. No need to select "Install Kernel" Since SuperCore 1.7 is already installed.
5. Go back to the General Tab and use "Flash/Install File from SDCARD" to browse to and install DarkyROM2_XXKH3_Base_R2.zip
6. Wait for the phone to reboot and flash the new firmware
Get the files here:
http://www.darkyrom.com/community/index.php?threads/rom-cwm-sgs2-darkyrom2-kh3-base.4950/
I modified the instructions given on that link and posted it above for you since it's a little different for our I-9100T phones.
more info on I-9100T here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=16824749&postcount=10
Interestingly, I just purchased a SGS2 here in Thailand (I'm also an Aussie) and the model of the phone is GT-I9100T.
Unfortunately I cannot seem to find a KL2 kernel for CF-Root to patch it with... any suggestions?
Also, the site that held all the OEM kernels (MultiUpload) for download is now showing a "Shut down by the FBI" logo : )
As long as you're certain you've got a I9100T, use the KL1 CFRoot kernel. Will work fine.
ApriliaM3 said:
Interestingly, I just purchased a SGS2 here in Thailand (I'm also an Aussie) and the model of the phone is GT-I9100T.
Unfortunately I cannot seem to find a KL2 kernel for CF-Root to patch it with... any suggestions?
Also, the site that held all the OEM kernels (MultiUpload) for download is now showing a "Shut down by the FBI" logo : )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone details are as follows:
Model: GT-I9100T
Android: 2.3.6
Baseband: I9100TDCKL1
Kernel: 2.6.35.7-I9100TDCKL2-CL767350 [email protected]#2
Build: GINGERBREAD.DCKL2
This is not an Aussie phone such as the Telstra I9100T that I see spoken about.
I purchased this phone here in Thailand 3 days ago and I have a few questions.
1. Is there a way to backup the original kernel before rooting?
2. Will the KL1 kernal make me lose things such as Thai language options etc?
3. Any way to restore the KL2 kernel in the future?
Thanks for taking the time to reply!
MistahBungle said:
As long as you're certain you've got a I9100T, use the KL1 CFRoot kernel. Will work fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) Doubt it. And the only link for DCKL2/Thailand in Intra's official firmware thread is dead as it was MegaUpload, and he more than likely won't have a backup (you could always ask him tho). Search around elsewhere online, you might find a copy of this kernel somewhere.
2) I don't know for certain, but I don't think so. I would have thought something like language would be more firmware-related.
3) Refer to 1) I don't see why you'd need to ? In order to get warranty service from Samsung, all you'd need to do is flash the most recent firmware available for your phone (for all they know you could easily have got this from an OTA update via Kies), do a factory reset/make sure there's no apps left on your phone that could tip off whomever repairs it that the phone was rooted, and use a jig to reset the flash counter. Obviously there are no rolled gold guarantees with getting warranty service once you've voided same by rooting the phone/running non-stock firmware firmware on it, tho.
ApriliaM3 said:
My phone details are as follows:
Model: GT-I9100T
Android: 2.3.6
Baseband: I9100TDCKL1
Kernel: 2.6.35.7-I9100TDCKL2-CL767350 [email protected]#2
Build: GINGERBREAD.DCKL2
This is not an Aussie phone such as the Telstra I9100T that I see spoken about.
I purchased this phone here in Thailand 3 days ago and I have a few questions.
1. Is there a way to backup the original kernel before rooting?
2. Will the KL1 kernal make me lose things such as Thai language options etc?
3. Any way to restore the KL2 kernel in the future?
Thanks for taking the time to reply!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was just worried it might stop future updates to ICS or similar via Kies.
At least I think I've managed to find another copy of the latest kernal on a site other than MegaUpload...
It's at 50% and counting : )
3) Refer to 1) I don't see why you'd need to ? In order to get warranty service
Running a CFRoot kernel over stock firmware should still allow you to receive OTA updates via Kies. If you find it doesn't, simply use Checkfus (search for it on here), it allows you to find/download the latest firmware for your phone/country that you'd normally get via Kies.
Really ? Cool Might wanna post a linky to your source over in Intra's thread. I'm sure there will be other people who might need it at some stage.
ApriliaM3 said:
I was just worried it might stop future updates to ICS or similar via Kies.
At least I think I've managed to find another copy of the latest kernal on a site other than MegaUpload...
It's at 50% and counting : )
3) Refer to 1) I don't see why you'd need to ? In order to get warranty service
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok so would you believe...
I ran the guide from Intra.
Installed an insecure ROM and then ran SuperOneClick and was rooted.
I restored the OEM kernel that I found online and BINGO - UNROOTED!
I repeated the procedure just to check everything again... same deal!
Phone is currently unrooted again...
MistahBungle said:
Running a CFRoot kernel over stock firmware should still allow you to receive OTA updates via Kies. If you find it doesn't, simply use Checkfus (search for it on here), it allows you to find/download the latest firmware for your phone/country that you'd normally get via Kies.
Really ? Cool Might wanna post a linky to your source over in Intra's thread. I'm sure there will be other people who might need it at some stage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, if you flash an original (unrooted) kernel over your rooted kernel you'll lose root.
There's a procedure for removing the yellow warning triangle at boot in the CFRoot thread & also retaining root, but I found it too fiddly when I first rooted my phone so I simply bought a jig & did it that way.
I can't speak for anything to do with SuperOneClick as I've never used it.
ApriliaM3 said:
Ok so would you believe...
I ran the guide from Intra.
Installed an insecure ROM and then ran SuperOneClick and was rooted.
I restored the OEM kernel that I found online and BINGO - UNROOTED!
I repeated the procedure just to check everything again... same deal!
Phone is currently unrooted again...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apparently so... now I'm confused about what the guide was trying to achieve.
Also, Kies now tells me it's not compatible with my device... Perfect!
MistahBungle said:
Yeah, if you flash an original (unrooted) kernel over your rooted kernel you'll lose root.
QUOTE]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said, I have no idea whatsoever about anything to do with SuperOneClick. If you want a rooted phone minus the yellow warning triangle at boot without fiddling around, root it with a CFRoot kernel, buy a $3 jig from eBay, done.
So far as Kies not working, you could try uninstalling/reinstalling Kies, or simply use Checkfus as I've said previously. Me, I'd use Checkfus. Quick, easy & like the paragraph above, no fiddling around.
Edit to add - Yes, obviously Kies won't work if you're running an "insecure rom" as per your post above. I presume you mean a custom rom you found somewhere on here or elsewhere ? One of my earlier posts did say Kies should (not always) work if you're running a rooted kernel over a stock Samsung rom. If you're running a non-stock rom Kies won't work.
ApriliaM3 said:
Apparently so... now I'm confused about what the guide was trying to achieve.
Also, Kies now tells me it's not compatible with my device... Perfect!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ApriliaM3 said:
Apparently so... now I'm confused about what the guide was trying to achieve.
Also, Kies now tells me it's not compatible with my device... Perfect!
MistahBungle said:
Yeah, if you flash an original (unrooted) kernel over your rooted kernel you'll lose root.
QUOTE]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ditch Kies there is a better alternative out there. MyphoneExplore, do a seach via google. You'll also need to get the app client software from the android market. I use it to synch my work Outlook Calendar to my phone. You can also back up your contacts, sms and call records.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Edit: I tried CF-Root KL3 (wanted KL2) and it seems fine so far.
I have root and everything else seems the same (Thai language support etc.)
I'll keep you posted : )
Thanks for taking the time to deal with my issues!
Hope I can do the same for some others on this Forum in the future.
I'd not heard of Checkfus so I'll give that a try, thanks : )
There's no CF-Root to match my phone exactly but I guess there's nothing to lose now by trying something close : P
I ordered the jig almost a week before getting the phone but it seems the postage to Thailand is sloooow.
I'm running a stock ROM and unrooted but Kies is still misbehaving.
MistahBungle said:
As I said, I have no idea whatsoever about anything to do with SuperOneClick. If you want a rooted phone minus the yellow warning triangle at boot without fiddling around, root it with a CFRoot kernel, buy a $3 jig from eBay, done.
So far as Kies not working, you could try uninstalling/reinstalling Kies, or simply use Checkfus as I've said previously. Me, I'd use Checkfus. Quick, easy & like the paragraph above, no fiddling around.
Edit to add - Yes, obviously Kies won't work if you're running an "insecure rom" as per your post above. I presume you mean a custom rom you found somewhere on here or elsewhere ? One of my earlier posts did say Kies should (not always) work if you're running a rooted kernel over a stock Samsung rom. If you're running a non-stock rom Kies won't work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Something may have borked so far as the CSC goes (which tells Kies, the Market, etc where you are). I did say you should be able to use Kies, you're not the first person to have problems with it after rooting
Personally speaking, I've never used Kies & almost certainly won't use it. Ever. Custom roms/kernels are a piece of you know what to flash via CWRecovery (or Odin for that matter), and official firmware updates are easy to get with Checkfus & flash via Odin if I ever have to go down that path for warranty purposes or whatever.
Kies is a truly awful piece of software
Edit to add after your edit - No worries
ApriliaM3 said:
I'd not heard of Checkfus so I'll give that a try, thanks : )
I'm running a stock ROM and unrooted but Kies is still misbehaving.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah Kies is dodgy...
When I got home I plugged it into Kies on the home PC and everything was fine!
Have you experimented much with any Custom ROM's?
MistahBungle said:
Something may have borked so far as the CSC goes (which tells Kies, the Market, etc where you are). I did say you should be able to use Kies, you're not the first person to have problems with it after rooting
Kies is a truly awful piece of software
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

[Q] So I've read the S3 rooting guide. But I don't get something...

I have had a read through this guide: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1695238
Now I feel reasonably happy about going ahead and flashing my phone but there is something that concerns me. Doing so is apparently going to void my warranty, so I can restore the phone to it's stock state if I need to use the warranty service right. The guide I linked touches on that and I will dig around for further info on how to do so (Unless anyone knows of a great guide for this which they can link to save me the hassle...). It's just that I am completely unsure whether SamMobile has the stock firmware version for my phone which I would need to do so :/ I was hoping someone could help me figure this out!?
I bought my phone new and unlocked (can use any network as far as I'm aware). I live and use my phone in the UK but it was sent from Hong Kong. The box the phone came in had a sticker that said "EU" on it but the charger that came with the phone only had a 2 pin plug. I'm pretty sure the charger that comes with the EU package is meant to be compatible with UK plug sockets also which use 3 pins? Also the default language for the phone when I first switched it on was Cantonese (native language of Hong Kong) as far as I could tell. Either way the model number is: GT-19300.
So I'm looking on this SamMobile site and I'm a bit confused as to what info about my phone it is that I need to check for this firmware? I don't know which number/s it is that I need to match up to find the firmware. On that site is has 2 columns labelled "PDA" and "CSC". I don't know what those are labelled as when I read them from my phone? Cheers
dial *#1234#
You will see the firmware details there
Thanks bud so it's just CSC I need to match up yes?
Edit: I don't know if I'm doing it wrong but whatever I click on or whatever I search it just shows me a page with the latest firmwares on it. There's only 10 of them and mine doesn't seem to be there. Can't get it to show any others :/ My CSC is: 19300OZSBLI2
Firmware use CHECKFUS but quick before its updated .
jje
JJEgan said:
Firmware use CHECKFUS but quick before its updated .
jje
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have already updated the firmware a couple of times through Kies. Does this matter?
no just uses the latest ICS from CHECKFUS as your saved backup .
jje
JJEgan said:
no just uses the latest ICS from CHECKFUS as your saved backup .
jje
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok I'm just searching that prog on here now to see what it's all about. Cheers.
Ok I got Check Fus on my phone. So I would root my phone first and then use this Check Fus prog to download the stock firmware, which I would then backup via "ClockWorkMod (CWM)" if needed? Sorry but I'm new to this so want to be clear before I go ahead with it. Thanks again.
Ok, so you want to back up your current firmware so you can flash your phone knowing you can get back easily.
Simple.
Root using this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1695238
[03.07.2012] CF-Root 6.4 - SuperSU+CWM5.5+CWMManager
Then go into recovery and backup(create nandroid) when done and booted back up I suggest you copy this t to your pc as well for safety. (You will find the backup in the clockwork folder on sd or ext sd depending on where you backed up to.
If you want to revert to stock ever, follow this guide
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1721380
[Guide] Return to Stock from Original CWM Nandroid Backup
Now you are all set to download Rom of choice and flash.
Remember to back up your efs
slaphead20 said:
Ok, so you want to back up your current firmware so you can flash your phone knowing you can get back easily.
Simple.
Root using this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1695238
[03.07.2012] CF-Root 6.4 - SuperSU+CWM5.5+CWMManager
Then go into recovery and backup(create nandroid) when done and booted back up I suggest you copy this t to your pc as well for safety. (You will find the backup in the clockwork folder on sd or ext sd depending on where you backed up to.
If you want to revert to stock ever, follow this guide
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1721380
[Guide] Return to Stock from Original CWM Nandroid Backup
Now you are all set to download Rom of choice and flash.
Remember to back up your efs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent. Thankyou
I'm going to spend a couple days reading through this stuff and making sure I feel good about it and then probably go for it. I'll try get on by myself as best I can. But if not, I'll post back here.
Thanks guys :good:

UNABLE TO ROOT galaxy note 3!

Hi all,
I have the SM-N9005 Galaxy Note 3 (Snapdragon) running android 4.4.2. I had a bit of a **** up the other day and finally managed to get my phone booting again. My issue now is that I can't seem to root my phone at all.
A copy of SuperSU was installed (by a failed CF-Auto-Root while trying to fix my device), but wouldn't run when I tried it. I've now tried to root the device by:
CF-Auto-Root - Runs smoothly but still no root
Towelroot - Device not supported message
CWM -> Install via zip - Says it worked but root unsuccessful
Kingo - Failed to root
I've tried multiple things now but no matter what I do, the final result will be a device that isn't rooted even if whatever rooting method says it was successful. I also can't run apps that won't run on rooted devices because they think my device is rooted (not sure if this is knox? mine has been tripped).
Anyone have any idea?
Try root genius it works
Downloaded root genius, ran it, everything went perfect and it said "Gratz".
Still no root according to root checker and Xposed. I have Kinguser installed now too which says root access is "ON".
Sidalol said:
Downloaded root genius, ran it, everything went perfect and it said "Gratz".
Still no root according to root checker and Xposed. I have Kinguser installed now too which says root access is "ON".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anyone giving you advice on how to root without knowing your build version of the software you are currently using shouldn't be trying to "help". Since you have not had any success and having leftover apps / files that you can't delete without root means you should reinstall the stock operating system via Odin and restart the process. You absolutely need to be aware of the build version - just saying I have 4.3 or 4.4.2 installed is not enough information and the methods can vary depending on that and even, sometimes, via carrier or region.
es0tericcha0s said:
Anyone giving you advice on how to root without knowing your build version of the software you are currently using shouldn't be trying to "help". Since you have not had any success and having leftover apps / files that you can't delete without root means you should reinstall the stock operating system via Odin and restart the process. You absolutely need to be aware of the build version - just saying I have 4.3 or 4.4.2 installed is not enough information and the methods can vary depending on that and even, sometimes, via carrier or region.
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Click to collapse
Oh man that's how I broke it the first time. I didn't realise I needed version numbers etc, I simply followed te "how to unroot galaxy note 3" guide on galaxynote3root. The guide looked simple enough and linked me to the SM-N9005 firmware so I just followed the instructions. The flash failed in ODIN, phone wouldn't boot, and I was stuck in this mess of trying to learn about all these different ways of flashing with no idea what my version numbers were as I couldn't boot the phone.
After trying to flash all kinds of versions on to it (didn't really have much choice) I luckily stumbled across an old cwm backup, so I got cwm and restored that backup. Turns out it was a backup I did for my ex's phone (also Galaxy Note 3 but from Bulgaria, no idea which model, mine is from UK). I reset factory settings and that's where I am now.
If I post my version numbers here could you show me where to find the right files for Odin? I really had such a hard time trying to figure out what the hell was what with the million different firmware versions...
Model Number: SM-N9005
Android Version: 4.4.2
Baseband Version: N9005ZHUENE2
Kernel Version: 3.4.0-1955971
Build Number: KOT49H.N9005XXUGNG1
SE for Android Status: Enforcing
Security Software Version: MDF v1.0 Release 3
Edit: Been looking at firmware on sammobile and there's multiple versions of stock for N9005XXUGNG1 in all different languages, the difference is the CSC code however there isn't one for mine (mine seems to be from hong kong or something), does the CSC matter or can I download the United Kingdom N9005XXUGNG1 and flash that regardless of matchng CSC? Or can I fix my CSC? :/
Could someone move this thread to http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-note-3/help please I think it would be a better place.
Sidalol said:
Oh man that's how I broke it the first time. I didn't realise I needed version numbers etc, I simply followed te "how to unroot galaxy note 3" guide on galaxynote3root. The guide looked simple enough and linked me to the SM-N9005 firmware so I just followed the instructions. The flash failed in ODIN, phone wouldn't boot, and I was stuck in this mess of trying to learn about all these different ways of flashing with no idea what my version numbers were as I couldn't boot the phone.
After trying to flash all kinds of versions on to it (didn't really have much choice) I luckily stumbled across an old cwm backup, so I got cwm and restored that backup. Turns out it was a backup I did for my ex's phone (also Galaxy Note 3 but from Bulgaria, no idea which model, mine is from UK). I reset factory settings and that's where I am now.
If I post my version numbers here could you show me where to find the right files for Odin? I really had such a hard time trying to figure out what the hell was what with the million different firmware versions...
Model Number: SM-N9005
Android Version: 4.4.2
Baseband Version: N9005ZHUENE2
Kernel Version: 3.4.0-1955971
Build Number: KOT49H.N9005XXUGNG1
SE for Android Status: Enforcing
Security Software Version: MDF v1.0 Release 3
Edit: Been looking at firmware on sammobile and there's multiple versions of stock for N9005XXUGNG1 in all different languages, the difference is the CSC code however there isn't one for mine (mine seems to be from hong kong or something), does the CSC matter or can I download the United Kingdom N9005XXUGNG1 and flash that regardless of matchng CSC? Or can I fix my CSC? :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, it does get a little tricky since there are so many different versions of the software for Samsungs like these that are world phones. So your Build Number suggests that it's the version for the UK firmware, yet the baseband is from the Hong Kong region. You mentioned that the Odin install failed so I wouldn't think that the baseband had been changed, suggesting that originally it was an HK phone. With most of the unlocked non-carrier specific Note 3s, you should be able to install the official firmwares from whichever region, though there might be differences in service from the modem/baseband version or apps and languages specific to that region, but these problems should be easily solveable. I think I would try this one: http://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/download/38070/N9005XXUGNG1_N9005OXAGNJ3_BTU.zip/ This is the unbranded version for the UK region.
http://www.cpkb.org/wiki/Samsung_firmware_naming_conventions#2._Region_code
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2666907
Another thing I was thinking...you obviously have a custom recovery if you restored your gf's backup and tried to install SU that way...why not just pick a custom rom which is already rooted and could contain other fun / useful mods?
es0tericcha0s said:
Yea, it does get a little tricky since there are so many different versions of the software for Samsungs like these that are world phones. So your Build Number suggests that it's the version for the UK firmware, yet the baseband is from the Hong Kong region. You mentioned that the Odin install failed so I wouldn't think that the baseband had been changed, suggesting that originally it was an HK phone. With most of the unlocked non-carrier specific Note 3s, you should be able to install the official firmwares from whichever region, though there might be differences in service from the modem/baseband version or apps and languages specific to that region, but these problems should be easily solveable. I think I would try this one: http://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/download/38070/N9005XXUGNG1_N9005OXAGNJ3_BTU.zip/ This is the unbranded version for the UK region.
http://www.cpkb.org/wiki/Samsung_firmware_naming_conventions#2._Region_code
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2666907
Another thing I was thinking...you obviously have a custom recovery if you restored your gf's backup and tried to install SU that way...why not just pick a custom rom which is already rooted and could contain other fun / useful mods?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks so much. Do I have to download one of the CSC files from the bottom link to use at the same time in Odin? I want to reset everything back to stock first as it feels pretty screwed atm but afterwards is there any custom rom you recommend for note 3?
Sidalol said:
Thanks so much. Do I have to download one of the CSC files from the bottom link to use at the same time in Odin? I want to reset everything back to stock first as it feels pretty screwed atm but afterwards is there any custom rom you recommend for note 3?
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Click to collapse
No, the full firmware flash has the CSC built in, I just provided the other link for further info. As far as roms, I can't really say. I mod phones for people as part hobby / extra money and don't see the international version often enough to know the roms that well as I tend to just get the carrier specific ones to work on. Now that Lollipop is out for it, looks like there are a lot more choices which we don't have here in the US yet. Just think about what you want to focus on (battery life, mods, stability, etc) and read through the reviews to see if people are experiencing good things. I personally don't care for Touchwiz and the Samsung devices I've owned, I just jump straight to something CM based, but it's not for everyone and you might lose some functionality in some respects (some S-Pen features) and gain it in other places (ability to mod almost everything, slimmer, no bloat, etc) For my customers though, I almost always recommend something stock based as there tends to be less of a learning curve and thus less issues I have to help people navigate through.
es0tericcha0s said:
No, the full firmware flash has the CSC built in, I just provided the other link for further info. As far as roms, I can't really say. I mod phones for people as part hobby / extra money and don't see the international version often enough to know the roms that well as I tend to just get the carrier specific ones to work on. Now that Lollipop is out for it, looks like there are a lot more choices which we don't have here in the US yet. Just think about what you want to focus on (battery life, mods, stability, etc) and read through the reviews to see if people are experiencing good things. I personally don't care for Touchwiz and the Samsung devices I've owned, I just jump straight to something CM based, but it's not for everyone and you might lose some functionality in some respects (some S-Pen features) and gain it in other places (ability to mod almost everything, slimmer, no bloat, etc) For my customers though, I almost always recommend something stock based as there tends to be less of a learning curve and thus less issues I have to help people navigate through.
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Click to collapse
Crap, just tried to load that one...same problem I had the first time round. It gets to "system.img.ext4" then fails. My phone will stay on the downloading screen now until I reboot it then I probably can't boot
Phone shows:
UDC START
ODIN: Invalid ext4 image
Odin shows:
<ID:0/004> boot.img
<ID:0/004> recovery.img
<ID:0/004> system.img.ext4
<ID:0/004> FAIL! (Ext4)
<OSM> All threads completed. (succeed 0 / failed 1)
Edit: Yeah I get "Firmware upgrade encountered an issue. Please select recovery mode in Kies & try again". Won't work in Kies though it'll say unsupported version.
Edit 2: Tried again with a different cable (official samsung also) and different usb port, same result. Also ran files from desktop instead of usb this time but didn't help.
Sidalol said:
Crap, just tried to load that one...same problem I had the first time round. It gets to "system.img.ext4" then fails. My phone will stay on the downloading screen now until I reboot it then I probably can't boot
Phone shows:
UDC START
ODIN: Invalid ext4 image
Odin shows:
<ID:0/004> boot.img
<ID:0/004> recovery.img
<ID:0/004> system.img.ext4
<ID:0/004> FAIL! (Ext4)
<OSM> All threads completed. (succeed 0 / failed 1)
Edit: Yeah I get "Firmware upgrade encountered an issue. Please select recovery mode in Kies & try again". Won't work in Kies though it'll say unsupported version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That' s really odd... Maybe try the HK version then, matching the baseband version you have. Sucks that all the links are so darn slow. You might want to spring for the premium Sammobile account to expedite the process. They have a week membership for 5 pounds and should provide a significant increase in download speeds if you need to get your phone back up in a hurry.
You might try the Emergency mode in Kies to described here: http://www.samsung.com/us/support/faq/FAQ00059169/81100 to see if that helps anything.
es0tericcha0s said:
That' s really odd... Maybe try the HK version then, matching the baseband version you have. Sucks that all the links are so darn slow. You might want to spring for the premium Sammobile account to expediate the process. They have a week membership for 5 pounds and should provide a significant increase in download speeds if you need to get your phone back up in a hurry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I already got the week membership 2 days ago when I was trying this the first time Downloads were going to take 6 hours each and I'd already signed up to like 5 other sites (free) which all turned out useless anyway lol. Will try the HK one now (http://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/download/29373/N9005ZHUENE3_N9005ZZHENE3_TGY.zip/) Hope it's right
Sidalol said:
I already got the week membership 2 days ago when I was trying this the first time Will try the HK one now (http://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/download/29373/N9005ZHUENE3_N9005ZZHENE3_TGY.zip/) Hope it's right
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Won't make it any worse.
es0tericcha0s said:
Won't make it any worse.
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Click to collapse
Well damn it actually worked! Something is wrong through because apps are crashing and constantly spamming error boxes making it unusable...would it be some compatability thing with it being the kong kong firmware and me in uk? Don't know if it matters whether it's the hong kong one.
"Unfortunately, the process android.process.acore has stopped."
endless spam.
Edit: Ok I reset factory settings and now it works but it's in chinese. If I simply change the language to english is that it? It's the same as having everything back at stock and will work fine in uk? Or can I change to a proper uk stock?
Sidalol said:
Well damn it actually worked! Something is wrong through because apps are crashing and constantly spamming error boxes making it unusable...would it be some compatability thing with it being the kong kong firmware and me in uk? Don't know if it matters whether it's the hong kong one.
"Unfortunately, the process android.process.acore has stopped."
endless spam.
Edit: Ok I reset factory settings and now it works but it's in chinese. If I simply change the language to english is that it? It's the same as having everything back at stock and will work fine in uk? Or can I change to a proper uk stock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That should be it. You have the same baseband with this version as you had so you should not notice any difference in service or the like. I WAS going to suggest the HK version first but you said you got it in the UK so thought it should work that way. Sorry!
es0tericcha0s said:
That should be it. You have the same baseband with this version as you had so you should not notice any difference in service or the like. I WAS going to suggest the HK version first but you said you got it in the UK so thought it should work that way. Sorry!
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Click to collapse
Thanks so much man, this was driving me mad for a few days. One final thing if you don't mind, it's offering me a samsung update to the firmware, it says it's for VoLTE support and after updating the firmware I will be unable to downgrade due to the security policy. Is it fine to update or will it interfere with things in future like using a custom rom?
Thanks again really.
Sidalol said:
Thanks so much man, this was driving me mad for a few days. One final thing if you don't mind, it's offering me a samsung update to the firmware, it says it's for VoLTE support and after updating the firmware I will be unable to downgrade due to the security policy. Is it fine to update or will it interfere with things in future like using a custom rom?
Thanks again really.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My pleasure. I know how frustrating these things can be and I have a crazy amount of experience with this kind of stuff. You shouldn't have an issue with the update or doing custom things afterwards as the bootloader on that model is not locked, so you would still be able to install a custom recovery and custom rom, if you would like. If it's the 5.0 update, then you might have trouble using KK roms and you definitely can't go back to official 4.4.4 at that point, but it's probably just a minor update for the modem and not the full 5.0 update yet.

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