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★★★ NOOB GUIDE :: Root :: Odin :: Files :: Guides ★★★
PLEASE READ THIS FIRST POST IN IT'S ENTIRITY!!
As of July 2011, I am no longer updating this guide.
Please feel free to check here for updates (if any are made).
STEP ONE – RETURN TO STOCK JFD - USING ODIN
FOLLOW STEPS 2 - 4 :: THIS IS A GUIDE TO GO BACK TO JFD.
IT HAS ALL OF THE FILES NEEDED
I encourage you to use HashTab to verify the MD5 (verify it is a good download). These are large files – if it is NOT a good download you could really cause some issues. It takes 10 seconds – do it.
Once you are done, come back and proceed to ROOT.
GREAT, I AM ON JFD - HOW DO I ROOT?
You are likely still connected to your PC and booted up to the T-Mobile jingle. Great, drop the notification bar down and mount your phone...
There are two options here. Choose which is best for you, before you start.
ROOT ONLY METHOD:
A – This is an update.zip (633KB) that roots your phone only. You can then install Rom Manager from the Market to flash CWR (Clockwork Recovery) and install custom ROMs.
INSTALL CLOCKWORK RECOVERY AND FLASH A ROM THAT WILL GIVE ROOT ACCESS (MY PREFERRED METHOD):
B – use the other update.zip (1.7MB) and this will flash CWR for you – allowing you to immediately flash a custom ROM.. I do this because it's faster.
1.
A: Download this update.zip file to root your phone. You plan to install Rom Manager to flash CWR and a new ROM later.
B: Download this update.zip file to flash CWR... you will need to flash a custom ROM for Root. I prefer this method.
NOW DOWNLOAD THE ROM YOU PLAN TO FLASH
2.
Copy the update.zip (and the ROM) to the INTERNAL SD (not the external SD Card). sdcard/
3.
Unplug the USB (assuming you are still connected after using ODIN)...
Hold down volume up + volume down + Power for about 9 seconds.
If you prefer, you can power off your phone, then hold in all 3 buttons to boot into recovery, I don't see the point in waiting for the phone to power off.
This will get you to a recovery menu (blue/purple text) after some yellow text.
4.
In this (the stock recovery menu) select 'Reinstall Packages'
Use volume to navigate + power to select.
5.
It will cycle a bit, you will see that yellow text again, then it will return to the stock recovery. Select Reinstall packages again.
You are now in CWR (clockwork recovery).
You can either reboot, flash your new ROM or make a backup now...
I COVER HOW TO FLASH ROMS LATER – JUST KEEP READIN BELOW
Yeah, it is that easy!! Read below for more information if needed.... but at this point you probably are done with what you came here for. I would encourage reading below for general knowledge and making sure you are doing things as easily as possible.
OKAY, I HAVE ROOT - NOW WHAT? BACKUP!!!
** Below are a list of several things I suggest backing up **
Titanium Backup – APPS
Download Titanium Backup from the Market and Open it. The Paid version is worth it's weight in gold... it does everything automagically. Buy it if you plan to flash a lot or have a lot of apps.
Click Menu > Batch
Click on "Run" by backup all user apps
Click on Run the batch operation
All your apps are now backed up.
Please note that if you backup/restore System Apps, you are asking for problems. I do not ever mess with system apps and do not encourage it - unless you plan to stay on the same build. If you do, be smart about it.
Clockwork Recovery / Nandroid Backup!
Reboot into CWR (both volume buttons held in) while booting until you see “Vibrant'
Once there, go to Backup and run that. Should take about 5 minutes, maybe more.
If all hell breaks loose, this is a snapshot of your phone at that point... it's important to do this before flashing a new ROM!
Backup your Alternate Launcher (if you use one)
If you use a home replacement like ADW or LauncherPro, you can backup your home screen settings/icons (widgets cannot be restored however).
Launcher Pro: Click Menu > Preferences... scroll down to the bottom and click on backup.
ADW EX: Menu > ADW SETTINGS > BACKUP.
Once you flash your ROM, you can now RESTORE your settings.
Rooted... Got a Backup... let the fun begin!!
WHAT ROM SHOULD I FLASH?!?!?!
This question is asked a LOT. The most often answer? Read the development section and pick the one that seems to fit you... if that does not work, backup your apps and try another. This is a very liquid process. Things change, phones are different, people tastes are different. Try and try again.
I will point out that if you have backed up your apps, moving from rom to rom is NOT a hard process. You can ODIN to JFD and have a new ROM booting in 10 minutes. Easy.
OKAY, HOW DO I FLASH A ROM?
* I typically root/flash immediately after using ODIN. This is assuming you did not.
1 – Download the ROM to your PC. ROMs are typically 140-190+MB’s. So yeah, it’s a big file.
2 – Check the MD5 if so inclined (Using Hastab – linked above).
3 – Mount phone to PC
4 – Drag ROM to root of internal memory (the large SD card where folders like the DCIM folder appears).
Should appear as: sdcard/TheRomName.zip
You DO NOT need to rename the ROM
5 – Unmount and reboot into clockwork recovery (using Rom Manager, or by pressing in both volume buttons and power… holding… and releasing power once the Vibrant logo is up).
6 – OPTIONAL (in CWR): Do a Factory Wipe, Wipe Data, & Wipe Dalvik Cache (advanced menu)
7 – Go to “install zip from sd card”, select zip from sd... choose your ROM and flash it (volume keys move up/down, power selects)
8 – OPTIONAL (I do not do this): After flashing, choose to wipe data and dalvik cache
Do NOT factory wipe again
9 – Reboot phone
10 – Your new ROM is going to boot. Initial boot will take a LONG time (10 minutes maybe).
You may hear a lady's voice (Linda) converting your file system – this is normal if your ROM has the Voodoo lagfix. No worries.
Do not touch the phone for 5-10 minutes after it has booted... Seriously, Do Nothing!. . This helps clear any possible bugs. Once you've waited, reboot phone by holding in power for about 9 seconds (rough guess)... And then....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RESTORE!!
After the phone boots and you waited, go to Market, Sign-in, Approve terms, Re-install Titanium Backup. I strongly suggest the Paid version (MUCH better)
Restore all Missing Apps+Data.
Again, I really do little with System apps.. too many issues, but the green ones may be fine to restore.
Restore anything else you have. (ie launcher)
Reboot again.
I dont use Facebook, but I've been told you need to remove it and add it sometimes?
WHAT ABOUT IF THERE IS AN UPDATE TO THE ROM?
Let's assume you flashed Axura 2.2.6 and then a week later 2.2.7 is released... well, how do you update?
Easy, just download it, place it on your internal memory, backup using titanium backup, reboot to recovery, make a nandroid backup, flash the new rom and reboot.
Now... if you are going to try a new rom (not an update to your existing ROM), you may want to go back to stock first, then flash the custom rom.
Why go back to stock? Some say that if you are on one rom and go to another rom there may be ghosts left behind from the previous rom. Using ODIN to get back to stock and then flashing a ROM ensures this is not going to happen.
RECONDITION YOUR BATTERY
AFTER FLASHING A ROM IF BAD BATTERY IS NOTED
Use phone til it dies on it's own, completely dead.
Charge phone completely, plus 30 minutes longer.
Unplug phone from charger
Reconnect, you'll notice it's not full, charge till it is again.
This is bump charging and NOT something you want to do often, a few times is okay, in my opinion. You could skip the bump charge if you like.
Phone remains plugged in.
Boot into recovery (volumes + power)
Advanced > wipe battery stats, reboot.
Use phone til it's literally about to shut off (or does)
Charge till full +
Use phone like normal
Everyone has a method, that's how I feel it works best.
WORSE CASE SCENARIO - YOU BRICK YOUR PHONE - WHAT TO DO?
Almost always a phone is not actually bricked. If you can get into download mode or see ANYTHING you can ODIN back to stock and your phone is good to go.
If you are NOT able to get into download mode, please read the thread below to make a Jig!
TRY A NEW KERNEL/MODEM
New modems can increase signal and data speeds. Here is an incredible list of each thanks to XDA user scrizz.
Please pay notice to the version of android you are running (2.1, 2.2, etc.) CLICK HERE FOR A FULL LIST OF VIBRANT MODEMS
Kernels can overclock your processor, undervolt for battery, or remain stock but optimize things so the phone is snappier. These are always changing and there are always new builds coming out, so PLEASE review and make sure what you installing. These should install just like a rom... download, move to internal memory (sdcard/ ) and flash in clockwork recovery like you would a rom (install zip from sd).
NEED THE STOCK APPS BACK?
1 - Use the app BLOATER by Roman, it is found here!
THIS IS FOR THE MINORITY OF PEOPLE WHO CAN NOT GET INTO DOWNLOAD MODE OR STOCK RECOVERY. This used to be much more detailed, but is no longer an issue. Links saved here, just in case.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9663212&postcount=53
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=804305]
I think that is an excellent idea. As a noob myself, its easy to get confused. Maybe a noobs guide to odin, or how to back your phone up to your pc. One can never have to much info.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Do something on ODIN. I made a nandroid backup of my stock root but I have no idea what to do with it should something go wrong.
Great idea, I think most will appreciate something like this.
I think you may want to make sure you include a section about the various lagfixes. How to install, the importance of uninstalling and of course their definitions. I think it would help clear up the forums a bit.
I am actually NOT going to mention lag fixes at all. They are not for noobs and really do not benefit the user THAT much. If someone wants to add using lag-fixes, go for it... but it's not something I am going to recommend for a noob. With froyo especially, I consider these pointless (unless you want to see a high quadrant score).
Good point, maybe you'll want to mention them as evil and not meant for the weak at heart or anyone not willing to have a nice paperweight.
How about adding something for those new users who purchased a used phone. Maybe teach then what to look for before they flash anything.
Alright, not even close to being done...but I am at a stopping point right now. Will try and pick it back up later today. Please let me know what you guys want added.
ColorNapkin said:
Do something on ODIN. I made a nandroid backup of my stock root but I have no idea what to do with it should something go wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, an "Odin for noobs" would be awesome.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Great tut, but stuff like this will cause more "noobs" even with the simplicity you will get questions regarding how to do something. Lol whats your next step? Record yourself doing it, I.would die if you do.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using Tapatalk
Guide added to WIKI
So added this link to Wiki for the Vibrant. http://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/index.php?title=Samsung_Galaxy_S_SGH-T959#Good_Links
There is already a Odin guide on there under the [GUIDE] FIX AND RESCUE YOUR VIBRICK!
iwillkillyou said:
Great tut, but stuff like this will cause more "noobs" even with the simplicity you will get questions regarding how to do something. Lol whats your next step? Record yourself doing it, I.would die if you do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually... I probably was going to ODIN my phone (video 1), root it (video 2) flash clockwork (video 3) and flash a rom (video 4).....
I was cautious to accept the request to make an even simpler tutorial... frankly I spent a lot of time on the sticky and if that was not enough, well... perhaps you should not be rooting. That said, by doing this it will really clean up the sticky when it's done AND I need more space since I am running out, again.
Not many noobs asking for much... perhaps this effort is not needed?
If you want you can also link to my guide on how to fix Vibricks if you get a lot of questions about that as well x)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=9370249
If you are going to create the be-all "brick" thread, could you at least explain that they are NOT BRICKED????
I think that this is great thread. I did ryans oclf to root my phone, because it seemed to be the easiest way to root. I think I will undo and start over using this guide. Before There always seems to be some question popping up where I find myself wondering what was meant so I would never take the plunge into flashing a rom.This seems to be more straight forward for me. I personally would love to see the video walk through which would make everything crystal clear. Thanks for this OP
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
s15274n said:
If you are going to create the be-all "brick" thread, could you at least explain that they are NOT BRICKED????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There, I semi-fixed it for now, I'll add more details later
Thanks so much for your wonderful work. I am a nubie and I am sure it will be a great deal of help to me. Is there any way you could include what fastboot is and how to use it? And when to use it? Once again thank you for your kind and generous efforts.
I went ahead and flashed axura 2.0.5 without any problems ( thanks to the vid on axura download page), but now I'm not sure about getting the Black froyo theme. It says to download zip and flash through clockwork recovery. Is that the same steps as flashing the rom? sorry in advance if this is a stupid question, but unless it is crystal clear I am very hesitant. thanks again
roly17 said:
I went ahead and flashed axura 2.0.5 without any problems ( thanks to the vid on axura download page), but now I'm not sure about getting the Black froyo theme. It says to download zip and flash through clockwork recovery. Is that the same steps as flashing the rom? sorry in advance if this is a stupid question, but unless it is crystal clear I am very hesitant. thanks again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you download the zip to your internal sd card, boot into clockwork recovery and install the zip from there.
As for a ODIN guide for n00bs, not sure how much easier you can get:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnY7P14JSWQ
Thats what i think too, but not sure. Do i click on install rom from sd card to get to the theme zip file? I tried this and it brought me into clockwork recovery(?), but the install of the zip was not obvious to me. So I just rebooted and nothing happened. I know I did something wrong , just not sure what.
does anyone have the step by step instructions on how to flash this onto your phone? There are so many threads i dont know where to start. I rooted my phone but have never used a rom before. I also want to make sure I have it running as best as possible.
Thanks in advance to whoever can lend a hand.
get - rom manager app, free or paid doesn't matter.
click the first option on rom manager, flash clockwork recovery, and chose Galaxy S Vibrant
download the nero v5 to your sd card
use rom manager and click download rom from SD and then choose the .zip wherever you put it.
then it'll ask to backup current rom, and clear/wipe data.
check the clear and wipe data, but not the current rom, if you want you can, but just check the second one no matter what.
it will reboot, and go into regular recovery, or it'll start downloading rom, if it starts saying clear data and stuff, its good.
if its on screen with blue text, click reinstall packages, now it'll reboot, in the same screen
click reinstall packages again.
now it'll be on a green text screen.
it won't do anything here since you had to reboot, so now click install from sd card
and then choose and find file.
then click yes, you navigate the recovery with volume buttons, and power, volume up is up, down is down, power button is OK/select
then the same thing will happen.
REMEMBER, THE FIRST REBOOT WILL TAKE A WHILE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AND IF YOU HEAR SOME VOICES, THATS GOOD TOO, IT MEANS ITS ENABLING VOODOO LAGFIX.
DO NOT REBOOT IF THE FIRST BOOT TAKES ABOUT 10 MINUTES, IF IT TAKES LIKE 20, THEN YEAH YOU GOTTA WORRY, BUT ABOUT 10 IS GOOD.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=849028
This thread will tell you everything you need to know. You have to be diligent to get this stuff. read it. re read it. then try it out. at least figure out how to back everything up and you don't have to worry about a thing. I also had a lot of trouble and a miserable time learning all of this. if you have any questions post them here or send me a message and i'll try to help you out.
Thanks... I am new so I appreciate the help, and dont know why someone would come into a thread clearly asking for help just to be rude. I'm not that worried about bricking it. I get my hands on a lot of phones. I've got three of these so I want to try to mod one so I can give the other 2 to my brothers. I'm using a Windows Phone right now so if i fail then i guess that's that for now...
Thanks again..
I'm stuck in a loop. I flashed CWM. Then proceded to partition. I followed GoodIntentions web page to the letter untill I got to the fix permissions. As soon as I executed it immediately said fixing permissions...Done! I was waiting for some on screen instruction but damn that was fast and it said "Done!" It then highlighted reboot recovery so I executed. Then it said booting recovery kernel image and took me right back to the first CWM menu then highlighted reboot system now. So I executed and it said again booting recovery kernel image and highlighted reboot system now again.
There were a few things that were odd to me during the CWM flash.
1. I already had a recovery file in my root directory of my gtab. I had to do a factory reset on the 11th because of something my kids did. Note kigs no longer play with gtab. The file was a text file so I thought that it would be able to tell the difference when booting. Maybe an issue, maybe not, just putting that out there.
2. The gtab never autimatically rebooted after CWM install. It did highlight the reboot option so I pressed the home key to execute.
3. There were no on screen instructions in the fix permissions. It just said "Done!"
For information purposes I am providing my bootloader version and CWM.
- Bootloader 1.2-4349
-ClockworkMod Recovery v3.0.2.8 (GTAB 1.2 and NI Adam rev5)
HELP!
When you reboot the system, make sure you reboot the right option. There are 2 reboot options in CWM: (a) reboot system and (b) reboot CWM. Whenever you're done flashing a ROM or fix permission, CWM will automatically highlight choice (b). You need to press the back button to go back out to main menu and choose reboot system.
I did both
I did both and it still loops me back to the CWM main. At the root menu "reboot system now" is on the top and "advanced" is at the bottom. Reboot system now is highlighted so I execute then it shows me the birds and the kernel image message. Then I'm right back at the CWM root menu. The only thing I did was partition and fix permissions. The fix permissions just said done as soon as i hit they button. There was no instruction beyond that.
How did you flash in CWM?
I'm guessing... oh gosh... tell me first how you flashed in CWM.
While I figure out what's going on, have you checked to see if the volume + button is stuck?
it's not stuck. I'm able to change highlighted options.
Ok, try this. When you're in CWM, do a data wipe.
OK doing it now.
ok I did it. it says data wipe complet and took me back to the root menu
What next?
Well, after data wipe then try to reboot system.
PS - we're trying to solve a problem over in development. Sorry, I'm distracted.
nothing, still doing the same thing.
No problem. Im just stoked someone is willing to take the time to help me out. I joke at the term dummies cause I'm ignorant to this new technology. But so you know, I'm exmilitary MI so I'm very anal about following instructions. I know I did this to the letter so it blows my mind as to what went wrong. Your web site is very thorough so I have to believe that it has something to do with that damn recovery text file that was already in my root directory before I unzipped the other. Just a thought.
It appears that somehow your boot image has been replaced by CWM. Without delving too much into details, visit my page on nvflash and nvflash your way out. What rom were you running before you put cwm in?
Added by edit.
On second thought, yes that recovery file might have something to do with it. Without knowing what it is, I can't really tell you what it did.
You should just flash in a new rom using cwm.
Added by edit again.
You're not going to sniper me are you? If so, I'm x-cop... almost won the damn marksman competition, too.
HA HA no sniping. But it is good to know I'm dealing with another person that has life experience. I was running 1.2-4349.
1.2 stock rom?
yeah 1.2 stock ROM
If you still wanna use stock rom, then nvflash back to stock rom. Look at the nvflash page of my website. If you want something better, I highly recommend the calkulin+clemsyn combo. It's in my rom page. The whole process should take you about 20 minutes and then you will have a tablet that's 10 times faster and smoother. Also, your kids will be able to play with it and you won't have to worry about them messing it up. Trust me, man, you'll be a lot happier.
PS - we got the problem solved in the development section. Good thing, too, because I'm about to go on my nightly run.
Added by edit.
Actually, go to start here page. And choose "You bricked your gtab and now you are freaking out."
The way I understand this is that I have to flash back to stock ROM first. Then install CWM. Then install the new ROM.
You are the man. Thanks for all your help. I'll give this a shot and post how it turned out. Enjoy your run!
I have followed you instructions on the web site to the letter. I tried it several times and each time it stops booting at the birds screen. I went back and restored it using the backup file I created during the flash. That Part D has me a bit confused. I don't understand why you choose "install zip from sdcard" in step 1. Then what seems to be some reformatting when you "Choose wipe data/factory reset" in step 2 and "Choose wipe cache partition" in step 3 and "Choose Wipe Dalvik Cache" in step 5. Then you "Go back out and choose install zip from sdcard" in step 6. The only difference that I can see is that you expand the step by explaining how to find the zip file in the following steps. I have done it by the letter several times and I've also tried it other ways. As I'm typing this my tablet is still on the birds screen. I'm almost there. I can taste it. I just need a bit more guidance. As a note I will tell yousince I've had to do this the hard way, I'm not in the least bit intimmidated by this process. And I can do it with some speed now. Thanks GoodIntentions!
I have done some additional reading in the forums and discovered that this considered a soft brick. I do a CWM restore and everything goes back to stock and works fine, but each time I try to load Calkulin_Clemsyn Combo Overclock it locks at the birds during boot. I already nvflashed in case you don't remember. I can go back and do it again, but I'm at a loss. I'm not sure if it would accomplish anything more than my current result since I had already done it. I really don't know where to go from here. I also read that Viewsonic may have locked the bootloader to keep us from modding the Gtab. Which makes no sense cause modding is really the only thing driving the sales for these things. Even if I were to nvflash this thing again whose to say it doesn't do the same thing. I haven't seen a fix or workaround for this anywhere once it's been nvflashed again. What do I do from here?
I'm having the same problem here.
Hello gyus,
First of all i would like to say that I'm a real noob. Recently i i flashed the Overcome Rom and everything works fine, but I'd like to use Pershoots Kernel. I tryed it but i had to use a backup because i bricked my device. So i ask you, if it is possible to give me a noob friendly guide to flash Pershoots Kernel. Would be grate.
Greetings from Austria
I just did this recently and I just remember downloading it from his site droid basement. Copied it to my tab. Booted into cwm recovery and used install from sdcard and chose the file to install and everything went fine.
I don't use the same ROM as you tried it on, so things could be different than the way I did it. If you understand what I did you shouldn't have any problems even being a noob which I also consider myself as and probably always will cause I'm barely able to keep up, let alone become ahead of stuff.
Good luck mate. Keep us updated to please.
If you can read this it was sent using my GT-P7510.
1) download the zip
2) put it on the root of your tablet storage (the file should show up alongside (not inside) the data, android, download etc. folders.)
3) Boot to clockwork recovery (I don't use overcome; might be available by holding the power button; either that or use the Rom Manager app).
4) go to "install zip" ---> "choose zip" ---> then select the kernel zip. Run it.
5) click back, then reboot. The screen will turn on, and it may appear frozen. Wait. Wait. Continue to wait. Have patience. Go get a sandwich. (This is across the board. when you flash anything in CWM you wait at least 30 minutes before you get worried and start new threads about how your tablet is bricked).
6) in the settings menu check the "about" to see what kernel you're using.
Done.
Thank you so much :-D Both of you are worth gold.
Gretings
Samsung Galaxy (SGH-M819N) MetroPCS Mega
This will take you from the Factory Stock JB 4.2.2 (Rooted) to the Factory Stock KK 4.4.4 (Rooted). This is an "Update" procedure, not a wipe!
The following are the steps for updating your;
Samsung Galaxy (SGH-M819N) MetroPCS Mega
...from Android Jelly Bean v4.2.2 to KitKat v4.4.4
This will update you, without losing your setup & settings.
Very Important! All of this must be done from/on a PC/Laptop that is running Windows (at least XP)!
And you will be using your File Manager to do everything here. There are no "installations". You will be running everything by simply double-clicking on it in your File Manager in Windows.
You may need the appropriate USB Drivers for your device. If your PC/Laptop is not recognizing your Android device, you can try finding them at the following links:
http://rootmyandroid.org/android-usb-drivers-for-all-devices.html
http://developer.android.com/tools/extras/oem-usb.html
The following is the method that worked for me and so I would advise that you follow the steps exactly as they're written. For example, I was using TWRP on my Mega, but when I tried using it to do the Rooting step, it did not work. Yet Philz Recovery did. You can switch back to TWRP afterward, but for now, stick with Philz until you're done with these steps.
Also, as another example, yes, there is a reason for pulling the battery and not letting it reboot in one of the steps and there is also a reason for rebooting it twice when told to do so, so once again, please follow the steps below exactly as they're written and you shouldn't have any problems. But of course, there are no guarantees and as always, "YMMV".
So anyway, here is exactly what I did (I wrote the steps down as I went):
01) Download the following files:
KK Stock: http://samsung-updates.com/device/?id=sgh-m819n
Tools: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hyc76x6zh6ppxdv/AAB7H8yyEpdKPzi5WfY6US98a?dl=0
You won't need TWRP, but as I said, I included it just in case you wanted to switch to it afterward.
02) Create a temporary folder and place all of the above files into it (unzip the zip file into that same folder).
03) Take the back off of your phone, so that you can easily pull the battery out when the time comes.
04) Power Off your phone, then fire it up into "Download Mode", by pressing the;
Home + Vol-Down + Power
...buttons, all at the same time, until you see the screen come up (you'll know it when you see it) and then release all of the buttons. Then just tap (for a sec) the "Vol-Up" button and it will go into "Download Mode" (it will say it on the screen).
05) Run Odin3 and when it comes up, Plug your phone in via the USB cable that came with it (using a different cable may cause problems). Your phone will show as being connected, because right below the top left box in Odin, it will say "COMx" (x=#).
06) Now click the big "AP" button in Odin (this is what used to be called the "PDA" button) and browse to the file named;
M819NUVUBNI5_M819NTMBBNI5_M819NUVUBNI5_HOME.tar.md5
...highlight the file, then click "Open", to bring it down into the "AP" box in Odin.
07) Now UNcheck both of the small boxes, labeled; "Auto Reboot" & "F. Reset Time".
08) In Odin, at the bottom, toward the right, click the "START" button. In the box on the top left in Odin, you'll see stuff happening. It should note what it's currently processing. For example, for one of the events, it'll say "System", as it's flashing in the System portion of the ROM, etc.. This will take a little while, so be patient.
09) When it's finished, it will say so in that same box. It will say "PASS", or "Finished", or something to that effect. You'll know if there was a problem.
10) When it has finished succesfully, Exit Odin. You'll be running it again, but closing it clears the screens in it, which makes it less confusing (to me, anyway).
11) Now pull the battery out of the phone, wait about 30 seconds, then put it back in.
12) Next, turn the phone on normally and let it boot into the ROM. Obviously, lots of stuff will be happening here, including (before you see your Home Screen come up) the black box that pops up, that says it's installing apps (or something like that) and counts through them.
13) When your phone does come up to your Home Screen, remember, you are NO LONGER ROOTED, so you will see lots of errors from apps that require Root not being able to do their thing!
You may also see lots of "Google Play Services" errors. Do not bother going into the Google Play Store, as it won't work either!
What you need to do now, is to reboot your phone. And when you do, you will see it counting apps again, but with a much lower number of apps to process. It is my belief that it doesn't process what would make up a "GAPPS" package (Google Apps) the first time around, but then it does it on the second reboot, since this time around, all of the Google stuff will work!
14) Once your phone has done the stuff it needs to do to finish booting up, Power Off your phone.
15) Run Odin again.
16) Boot your phone into Download Mode again.
17) Connect your phone using the USB cable and make sure that Odin sees your phone.
18) Click the "AP" button and browse to the file named;
philz_touch_6.25.0-meliusltexx.tar.md5
...highlight it and then click the "Open" button.
19) Make sure to UNcheck both the "Auto Reboot" & "F. Reset Time" boxes. It is very important that you do this, because Android's default behavior when it reboots after the following step, would be to overwrite the Recovery that you're about to Flash, with the Samsung Factory Recovery. That's also why you'll be pulling the battery to shut your phone off.
20) In Odin, click the "START" button. When it's finished, the top left box in Odin should turn green and it will say, "PASS". It may take a couple of minutes, so be patient. If it never turns green and you have waited, it is probably fine. Just move on to the next step. If you have a problem, then repeat the process, starting from Step 15 above.
21) Close Odin and unplug your phone.
22) Boot straight into "Recovery Mode". This is done by pressing and holding the;
Home + Vol-Up + Power
...buttons all at the same time. You will see some lines of text being drawn on the screen a few times, until the phone finally decides to reboot. Keep holding the buttons!
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT that you do not move your fingers away from their positions right now, as you may need to quickly press and hold all three buttons again and you will only have about one second to do it in! If you're unsuccesful, your new Recovery may be overwritten with the Samsung Factory Recovery and you will have to repeat the steps above, all over again!
If it does not boot up to where you see "Recovery" in tiny type at the very top left of your phone's screen, what will happen, is that the phone will shut off again. Release the buttons and your phone will start to fire up again.
AS SOON AS you feel the vibration that your phone does when it's first turned on, press and hold and three buttons again and then you should see it say "Recovery" at the top left ("Recovery Mode", or something to that effect). When you do, you can release the buttons. This may take a few attempts.
23) Once it boots into PhilZ Recovery, perform a backup (if you have an SD Card installed, you probably have more room there and should tell it to back up there).
24) Once the backup is done, you will then want to reboot your phone using PhilZ Menus. Make sure that it is set to check for Root (it will show you that setting) and then when it asks you if you want it to Root your device, make sure that you say "YES". It will then Root your phone and Reboot it!
25) When your device comes up, you will need to go into the Google Play Store and install "SuperSU". Please also support this wonderful, awesome app by purchasing the Pro version key as well! You'll get some more way cool features and besides, what else would you use? After you install SuperSU, make sure you go into it and when you do, it will detect "KNOX" and ask you if you want to disable it. Say "YES"!
Once all of this is done, just Reboot your phone one more time and that's it! You're updated, you're Rooted and you're ready to go!
If you want to install TWRP Recovery now, you can. I included v2.6.3.5, because it' the only version that I could get to work with this device. Just Flash it like you did PhilZ, starting at Step 15 above.
Now all that's left to do, is to check to make sure that all of your apps still work. I had a problem with about a half-dozen of my apps. But all I had to do, was extract the Apk's out of them and run them, reinstalling right over the current installation and every single one of them worked great afterward.
Enjoy and I hope everything goes well for you!
Thank you for the detailed write up. Has anyone tried this after flashing megakat ROM?
tomcat420m said:
Thank you for the detailed write up. Has anyone tried this after flashing megakat ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're very welcome! I tried to do it as a "I know nothing, so please tell me how to do this" guide.
As for MegaKat, I have no idea, but usually the rule is, if you're coming from a Custom ROM, you have to backup your apps and data (always a good idea) and then do a Factory Reset/Wipe before installing.
But of course, the way I see it, as long as you're backed up and you'd have to wipe anyway, what do you possibly have to lose by trying it without wiping? If you also have a full NanDroid backup, you can always restore.
I had to the first time when TWRP wouldn't restore my Root. My WiFi didn't work after restoring back to 4.2.2, but since my end goal was to get to 4.4.4 anyway and my Mobile Data worked fine, the temporary glitch was no big deal.
Glad you found the guide and I hope it works as well for you as it did for me!
I now have a file with everything in one Zip file (not a "Recovery install Zip), so that you won't have to visit all those links above in the OP.
Here's the link and any problems just let me know:
https://db.tt/9WcxjUT0
The Steps listed above is exactly what I did. I wrote those Steps from what I did. It took me less that an hour. But don't assume you know what's going to happen next. Please follow them exactly!
I have done it twice on my SGH-M819N (MetroPCS) Mega (I messed my phone up doing something else to it) and I have applied this to 3 other phone with their OEM ROMs and required Recoveries (TWRP, CWM, etc) and was 100% succesful every time, so this methos does work if done correctly!
A big thank you!
Zeuszoos, thank you for writing this guide. I was lost without it. Pleasw keep up the good work. Have a grwat day!
pabickwermerr said:
Zeuszoos, thank you for writing this guide. I was lost without it. Pleasw keep up the good work. Have a grwat day!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are very welcome!
From my lightning slow Samsung Glxy SGH-M819N Mega
Samsung OEM KK 4.4.4 ROM, Philz Touch Recvry v6.48.4
http://reflectiveresonance.com/
Link gone
Please can I get the link its broken:crying:
big.cat.laflare said:
Please can I get the link its broken:crying:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big Cat,
Sorry about that! Forgot to update it.
Try this one and lemme know:
https://db.tt/LuM1l55O
TTYL
Not rooted
:crying:
Hey guy thanks for the link anyways I follow the process all the way through until backup I didn't have enough memory so I rebooted but I think I accidentally didn't root because I downloaded root checker from Play Store and he could not verify root on device any help will be greatly appreciated
big.cat.laflare said:
:crying:
Hey guy thanks for the link anyways I follow the process all the way through until backup I didn't have enough memory so I rebooted but I think I accidentally didn't root because I downloaded root checker from Play Store and he could not verify root on device any help will be greatly appreciated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big Cat,
Okay, I'll try and we'll see if we can get it working for you together.
A couple of "not meant to be insulting" questions;
Were you already Rooted before starting?
Are you running the provided PhilZ?
Did you perform the "ReRoot" step in PhilZ?
If "Yes" to all of the above, did you then install the SuperSU app?
Did you then run SuperSU to make it update its data (choose "Normal")?
If yes, sometimes you have to uninstall/reinstall an app like a root checker to get it to ask for SuperUser permission again, so that it'll work.
TTYL
Yes thank you
Ok so i kept looking answers and ran into another forum same in here and downloaded zip file for su and flashed thru Philz then got su from play store and got it going thanks dude you are awesome completed backup was over 5gb luckly i own a 32gb sd , now any recomm on a good rom for this it would be my first pls point me in the right direction n again thanks for all your help :good:
big.cat.laflare said:
Ok so i kept looking answers and ran into another forum same in here and downloaded zip file for su and flashed thru Philz then got su from play store and got it going thanks dude you are awesome completed backup was over 5gb luckly i own a 32gb sd , now any recomm on a good rom for this it would be my first pls point me in the right direction n again thanks for all your help :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big Cat,
Um, yea, I can help you, but do me a favor and don't do anything until I get back to you, while I arrange some things for you.
There's something that I now know that you do not understand and you're going to be upset when you do. <lol>
I just don't have time to type it all out right this minute.
I'll get back to ya within 24 hours or less. Sit tight.
TTYL
Now you got me wondering
yes sir I'll be waiting paciently
big.cat.laflare said:
yes sir I'll be waiting paciently
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big Cat,
Here it is: In order to go to a Custom ROM, you did NOT need to do what you just did. Except for the learning experience, it was a waste of time.
It was also a waste of time, because in order to install ANY Custom ROM, you'll have to perform a "Factory Wipe/Reset", which will wipe all of your data out and start you from initial setup (input account, etc).
This is why I said to "sit tight".
You didn't have to do that with this one, because it was direct from Samsung and you already had a Samsung Factory ROM installed.
There is an alternative that can be "Dirty Flashed", which is "MegaKat". No Wipe!
It will make your setup faster/smoother. It's still a Samsung (MetroPCS) ROM, but tweaked for performance.
You can then customize with Xposed to your hearts content!
If you're interested in that method, download my instructions, which also contains two links to the files you'll need:
https://db.tt/9HnnGRUi
This is what I run and I love it!
TTYL
I see
:good:
Ok so after reading ur post i thought i was gonna be more worried lol ... ok so i guess i wasted my time huh learning experience. ... ive rooted before and flashed custom roms never have done a dirty flash as is not recommended there comes in play what u explained i guess i was just trying to go from stock rooted to update 4.4.4 rooted and ur thread caught my eye i always like experimenting with my phones also bricked and revied a few after alot of reading and help from guys like you who take the time to answer back even if we have to sit back tight, so now that im rooted and got recovery to work thats why i asked u for ur opinion on a good custom rom or heck might give that mega kat a try ive never experimented with exposed hope your other thread explains a bit i know im a noob just a fast learning noob so thanks for the advice and for pointing me in the right way
Big Cat,
Just FYI, I didn't typo. It's "Xposed", not "Exposed" (same pronunciation).
And actually, unless you did a Factory Wipe before this one that you just did, then you just did a dirty flash! Hahaha!
Here's the thing with MegaKat & Xposed:
MEGAKAT: You don't even need Odin. You just go into PhilZ and perform an "Install Zip" and 3 minutes later, yer done flashing, dude! There's a few more steps, but really just rebooting, rerooting from PhilZ (it will work first time) and installing (maybe) one Apk (make sure that "Unknown Sources" is enabled).
MegaKat makes the Samsung ROM much quicker and smoother!!!
XPOSED: Xposed is the best thing since sliced bread!
With Xposed, you are not limited in how you can customize your device! There's lots of Mods (I run 20-30 of them behind the scenes, transparently) that run in a way where they're not "apps", they're "mods".
Are you a gamer? Do you know about running game mods? They're not separate games. They "modify" your game!
But with Xposed, you can Enable/Disable with a tap! They run like they're integrated into your ROM, but they actually don't change your ROM (its files). There's no changing things where you would ever have to reflash you ROM to get back to start. You simple tap once to remove the Mod and Reboot!
For example, I have as one of my Mods, one that directs all Downloads to my installed 64 GB SD Card, instead of my Internal Storage. I also have a Mod that gives me access to AppOps again and one that allows me to "Hide Root" (hide the fact that I'm Rooted) from apps that won't work on a device that's Rooted.
Xposed is like being able to take the best functions from the best Custom ROMS and put them all on your device at the same time!
In fact, that's where many of the Mods come from. A Developer who wanted a feature from <insert Custom ROM name> and programmed up an Xposed Mod to do it! In fact, many times, if you want a feature you saw elsewhere to be on your device without installing the whole ROM, you can just Google "Android" "xposed" and a few descriptive keywords and a mod that does it will pop up in the search results! Hahaha!
Anyway, there's no such thing as an Xposed user that doesn't recommend it as highly as I am right now!
Up to you of course. But that's my recommendation. MegaKat & Xposed and you won't need a Custom ROM after that and you'll fill your need for playing around by testing various Xposed Mods!
TTYL
Thanks for the adv
:highfive:
Dude i really appreciate ur time and great explanation of the process thats why i wanted root for customization and now ive learn u can do that with xposed very nice mods not much of a gamer here either but i do understand what u mean i looked to custom roms cuz i guess they sre already build with the mods from developers who use what they like and bake it together but with this mega kat u dont have to worry about changing like u said the stock rom itself just customization the way you (one) wants it pretty good if u ask me. I downloaded the inst and will get started today on the mega kat installation I'm let you know if i was successful and by the way any link you know for the xposed mods u were telling me about i like the one like u said all ur downloads go to the sd that would come in handy, thanks dude your awsome!!
big.cat.laflare said:
:highfive:
Dude i really appreciate ur time and great explanation of the process thats why i wanted root for customization and now ive learn u can do that with xposed very nice mods not much of a gamer here either but i do understand what u mean i looked to custom roms cuz i guess they sre already build with the mods from developers who use what they like and bake it together but with this mega kat u dont have to worry about changing like u said the stock rom itself just customization the way you (one) wants it pretty good if u ask me. I downloaded the inst and will get started today on the mega kat installation I'm let you know if i was successful and by the way any link you know for the xposed mods u were telling me about i like the one like u said all ur downloads go to the sd that would come in handy, thanks dude your awsome!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big Cat,
Oh no, thank YOU! Hahaha!
Here's the Xposed Framework: http://tinyurl.com/lkvyllh
Here's the Xposed Mods (Lots!): http://repo.xposed.info/module-overview
I'll put together a list of some of mine (with requested) for you.
Don't forget, after installing Xposed, go into the app and "Install Framework" (should turn green).
And after each Mod, go into Xposed >> Mods and check it to Enable it (the Mod). You have to reboot also.
Lastly, most (not all) Mods will have settings pages. The Mods' interfaces (UI's) are Settings pages. They're not like regular apps that way.
Some you will be able to get into and set up before reboot, some not until after.
Also, you can join the MegaCat thread, please? You can tell everyone there how awesome I am. Hahaha! Just kidding.
This thread is for the ROM you already installed and I don't want it to get off track, please. Others who come into this thread will end up seriously confused!!!
With what I gave you for MegaKat, you're caught up threadwise, so you don't have to read there. But your next post to me should be there please???
I'm sharing my instruction set for Mega (I forget his full handle), the developer there too, so all can access it, as there isn't any instructions there.
Here a link to it: http://tinyurl.com/qcqvehj
Cya there, my friend!
TTYL
TTYL