[Q] Bricked? S3 - possibly tried to flash rom without bootloader? - Android Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I'm not tech saavy - I'll try to remember what all I did as best I can.
I rooted my s3 a few months ago based on some detailed instructions found online - no issues. The method used involved clockwork mod or some such.
Fastforward to today - I was following these
http://www.androidpolice.com/2010/0...d-phone-with-rom-manager-full-backup-restore/
instructions to attempt to install liquidsmooth (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2108013) rom. Prior to doing anything, I had backed up everything on titanium backup and using the back up in rom manager. In step 3.1, "flash a recovery image," I didn't think I needed to do this, as I thought it was a part of rom manager.
At any rate, I proceeded onward, and after the phone finished making a back up, immediately after it started to install the new rom, the screen went black (I assume the phone turned off).
I'm currently unable to get it to turn on at all, taking the battery out didn't do anything, and when I plug it into the comp via USB, it doesn't seem to recognize the device.
So I'm quite sure I'm bricked.... But if anyone could provide any advice (or confirm I'm bricked), I'd very much appreciate it. I'm a broke med student on loans, and a new phone is going to hurt the bank account a lot
Thank you in advance
P.S. It's 3:40 am here now.. I need to get to sleep, but I'll check on the thread first thing tomorrow

Sorry to say...
I am sorry to say but if your phone does not turn on at all or does not get in to recovery , It is hard bricked and there is nothing you can do about it.. try getting into download mode. If you can then something can be done. if not then......
To get into download mode simultaneously press the volume down key , home key and power button. Tell me if the download mode screen comes..

When the phone is plugged into the computer via USB and I hold the power button (or any other reset combo of buttons), the computer makes the sound like it realizes I detached the device, but then it makes a triple short 'bum bum bum' when the power comes back on (all of this with no apparent changes from the phone)
If it's helpful, a friend realized I downloaded an international ROM on an ATT phone

njbartel said:
When the phone is plugged into the computer via USB and I hold the power button (or any other reset combo of buttons), the computer makes the sound like it realizes I detached the device, but then it makes a triple short 'bum bum bum' when the power comes back on (all of this with no apparent changes from the phone)
If it's helpful, a friend realized I downloaded an international ROM on an ATT phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the "bum bum bum" noise is the usb device malfunction error so chances are is that its definately hard bricked. there not really anything else you can do at this point.
Sent from my U8160 using xda premium

Sending it in for JTAG. Thank you all for the help

njbartel said:
When the phone is plugged into the computer via USB and I hold the power button (or any other reset combo of buttons), the computer makes the sound like it realizes I detached the device, but then it makes a triple short 'bum bum bum' when the power comes back on (all of this with no apparent changes from the phone)
If it's helpful, a friend realized I downloaded an international ROM on an ATT phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think its hard bricked .... Just to make sure without plugging the usb , try to get into download mode... (simultaneously press the volume down key , home key and power button) if you can then your fone can be saved otherwise... try it and inform us if your phone got into download mode or not..

njbartel said:
Sending it in for JTAG. Thank you all for the help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try get into download mode before you send it off. Hold volume down +power + home button. Do it without a USB cable inserted.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using xda premium

Thank you both for the replies, my apologies for just noticing them and responding. My phone was definitely hard bricked (no combination of button pushing with or without the USB in would get the screen to change off black).
I sent the phone here
(I tried to do a URL, but my post count prohibits it. If you google search "brickedmyphone", it's the 1st hit)
for JTAG, and I feel the need to give the guy running it a plug. Very prompt replies prior to placing the order, and updates given throughout. The same day he received the phone, it was fixed and mailed back out. Total turnaround time, including shipping, was 5 days (received it today, phone was packaged securely and in perfect /working/ condition). Just need to reactivate the sim tomorrow (activated an old iphone with another sim on my number).
Thank you all again for the help!

Related

[Q] Can't get into download, hardware locked?

First of all, I'm not sure if my Vibrant is "hardware-locked" or not - the battery has a date of 8/25/10 printed on it, the sticker behind the battery says "10.09." Either way, I cannot get into download mode. The phone was purchased 1 week ago today. I was simply attempting to disable the voodoo lag fix (using bionix 1.3 rom). I have tried every combination of getting the phone into download mode that I can find - is it possible? I sometimes think it's close to working because during the process a window on my computer pops up that says "hardware not installed correctly" which to me means that I was close. Someone please tell me if it's even possible to get my phone into download mode - it will start up, do the samsung galaxy animation, then go to black screen with the bottom buttons lit up. Thank you for any help you can provide - it makes me ill that I spent $500 on this 1 week ago and am now faced with a complete brick.
dsmithok said:
First of all, I'm not sure if my Vibrant is "hardware-locked" or not - the battery has a date of 8/25/10 printed on it, the sticker behind the battery says "10.09." Either way, I cannot get into download mode. The phone was purchased 1 week ago today. I was simply attempting to disable the voodoo lag fix (using bionix 1.3 rom). I have tried every combination of getting the phone into download mode that I can find - is it possible? I sometimes think it's close to working because during the process a window on my computer pops up that says "hardware not installed correctly" which to me means that I was close. Someone please tell me if it's even possible to get my phone into download mode - it will start up, do the samsung galaxy animation, then go to black screen with the bottom buttons lit up. Thank you for any help you can provide - it makes me ill that I spent $500 on this 1 week ago and am now faced with a complete brick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you using one click root?
nomadrider123 said:
Were you using one click root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, when i rooted it, i used 1-click
Try this:
Take battery out
Put battery back in
DO NOT TURN ON PHONE!
Plug in USB
Wait for the green battery screen
Hold vol+ and vol- at the same time
Hold power
When the battery screen goes black, let go power ONLY.
I had a HW locked phone and this method allowed me to get into DL mode--still couldn't get into recovery, but at least I could use ODIN. Was a null point as the phone is bricked and a new one is on its way...
When you say a new one is on its way, did T-Mobile exchange it under warranty even though it was rooted?
TheSneakerWhore said:
Try this:
Take battery out
Put battery back in
DO NOT TURN ON PHONE!
Plug in USB
Wait for the green battery screen
Hold vol+ and vol- at the same time
Hold power
When the battery screen goes black, let go power ONLY.
I had a HW locked phone and this method allowed me to get into DL mode--still couldn't get into recovery, but at least I could use ODIN. Was a null point as the phone is bricked and a new one is on its way...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my HTC Magic using XDA App
If the above doesn't work.
Plug in USB to PC only
Insure Phone is off
Hold in Vol + and -
Plug in USB to Phone Holding Vol + and -
Release Vol + and -
Walla you are in Download Mode
Neither of these methods worked. what are the chances of t-mobile performing an exchange for me if all else fails?
you could try this too, it worked for me.
remove battery and put it back in.
plug in usb
hold vol up, vol down and power button.
when you see the vibrant home screen, keep holding the three buttons until the screen turns dark.
let go the power button and vol up but keep vol down pressed, you should be in download mode.
hope this help.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Since we all seem to have our own variations of this method, I can tell you the one that worked for me 99.99% of the time on the first try when I was stuck at the Phone ! Computer screen.
1) Remove battery
2) Hold Vol - and Power
3) Insert battery while holding these buttons
4) Plug in USB if it works.
Some have reported T-Mo swapping the device due to the inability to access download/recovery mode, but it doesn't seem to be something they will regularly do. Others have been successful by using the inaccurate GPS issue to get a replacement. Specifically by insisting it is not just inaccurate, but downright non-functional.
dsmithok said:
When you say a new one is on its way, did T-Mobile exchange it under warranty even though it was rooted?
Sent from my HTC Magic using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea...I tried relashing the stock rom using ODIN--for 4 hours over and over. It said "successful" in ODIN, but the phone was toast (would go past S boot screen then nothing. Just walked into TMO, said it "just would not do anything" with a feigned puzzled look and after a amateur cursory inspection the rep. just did his thing on the computer and a new phone is being sent to my house via UPS.

Stuck at phone to pc screen + hardware lock phone = RIP

I've tried every possible combination ... literally tried everything and this quote from this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=771247 just comfirmed it to me
METHOD 4: STUCK AT PHONE ! COMPUTER:
(and are not able to use vol+ vol- methods to access downloader/recovery)
CALL TMOBILE AND BEG FOR THEM TO REPLACE UR PHONE..
i cant believe its that easy to mess up your vibrant, my g1 never gave me a problem
did you try:
1. Phone starts OFF
2. Hold volume up + volume down buttons
3. Plug in USB cable
That is how I get into download mode. You don't ever hit the power button and you plug in the USB cable WHILE holding down the volume buttons.
El Cipitio said:
I've tried every possible combination ... literally tried everything and this quote from this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=771247 just comfirmed it to me
METHOD 4: STUCK AT PHONE ! COMPUTER:
(and are not able to use vol+ vol- methods to access downloader/recovery)
CALL TMOBILE AND BEG FOR THEM TO REPLACE UR PHONE..
i cant believe its that easy to mess up your vibrant, my g1 never gave me a problem
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
El Cipitio!!!!!!!
[do you eat ashes?] j/k
anyway... I'm sure there's a fix.
I *think* there's a fix.
ndhr3d said:
did you try:
1. Phone starts OFF
2. Hold volume up + volume down buttons
3. Plug in USB cable
That is how I get into download mode. You don't ever hit the power button and you plug in the USB cable WHILE holding down the volume buttons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the way, no power just volume up an volume down, or just volume down with the same method. Be sure you remove your sd and sim cards also.
Sent from my Vibrant running Bionix Final w/Jacs and Voodoo using XDA App
What has always worked for me is:
1. Power off the phone
2. Plug it in via USB
3. Wait for the green battery symbol to pop up
4. Hold vol. down and the power button until the Download screen pops up.
MrDragomir said:
What has always worked for me is:
1. Power off the phone
2. Plug it in via USB
3. Wait for the green battery symbol to pop up
4. Hold vol. down and the power button until the Download screen pops up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a hardware locked phone and have been stuck at the phone to computer link screen (a rather nervous place to be, I might say). First you need to take the battery out (to turn the phone off). Then you plug in the USB with the battery out. Then you put the battery in. You need to get the battery charging indicator, and I can't remember if you need to unplug/replug USB for that or not. Then you hold down both volume buttons and the power button. The *second* time you see Vibrant (phone reboots twice) let go the power button. You should end up in download mode.
I have the same issue, and when i try to do this:
JJMT said:
I have a hardware locked phone and have been stuck at the phone to computer link screen (a rather nervous place to be, I might say). First you need to take the battery out (to turn the phone off). Then you plug in the USB with the battery out. Then you put the battery in. You need to get the battery charging indicator, and I can't remember if you need to unplug/replug USB for that or not. Then you hold down both volume buttons and the power button. The *second* time you see Vibrant (phone reboots twice) let go the power button. You should end up in download mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it resets back to the battery icon.
Basically, im in the exact same situation as El Cipitio. i tried EVERYTHING!!! no luck at all...
Can adb still see your phone? I'm guessing no, but if it can just use "adb reboot downlaod".
Then again.... you guys are aware that the "hardware locked" issue was fixed almost two months ago right? One of the members posted a thread with a zip and the JI6 update also fixed this. There fore if you didn't flash either you should call Tmo, but if you have, then you're just doing it wrong... GL either way.
ahbad said:
I have the same issue, and when i try to do this:
it resets back to the battery icon.
Basically, im in the exact same situation as El Cipitio. i tried EVERYTHING!!! no luck at all...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One other thing to try is to remove the sim and external sd card and try the instructions I posted again. Really, if you get the pc to phone connection icon, you can get it into download mode and use odin to flash.
Dont waste your time fellas with trying to get,into recovery/download mode. If its anything like my hardware locked vibrant there isn't a key combo that will work. Probably thinking that your doing something wrong,YOUR NOT.
Im using my vibrant on att so I didn't consider calling tmobile. I actually called samsung, and after 5min on the phone they agreed to repair/replace for free. They recieved my phone on saturday amd I got it back that following thursday.
Save yourself a headache and sending
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Might be a fix????
intruda119 said:
Dont waste your time fellas with trying to get,into recovery/download mode. If its anything like my hardware locked vibrant there isn't a key combo that will work. Probably thinking that your doing something wrong,YOUR NOT.
Im using my vibrant on att so I didn't consider calling tmobile. I actually called samsung, and after 5min on the phone they agreed to repair/replace for free. They recieved my phone on saturday amd I got it back that following thursday.
Save yourself a headache and sending
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some one posted this in another thread. My brick got sent back before I could try this.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=8822843
This is how I got it to work....
1. Take out the battery
2. Plug the USB into the phone
3. Plug USB into the PC
4. Hold down the Volume up/down + Power button with one hand
5. Put the battery back in with the other hand
6. Wait for the phone2pc icon to flash 2 times and on the second time when the screen goes black release only the POWER BUTTON
7. When you see the digging Android you can let go of the Volume buttons
That is the only way I could get it to work
No, I can't get it into adb mode. The phone bootup screen comes (vibrant, the pink tmobile thing, then galaxy s), but then it goes black. The computer doesn't find anything during this time.
I don't really have time to do the soldering, so i'll try calling samsung. Problem is i live in toronto and bought this thing for cash, so i have no clue what to tell samsung lol. If that doesnt work, i guess soldering it is...
Try this:
unplug, remove battery, remove sim/sd cards
hold down volume control buttons
plug into wall adapter (usb charger - not to computer but to outlet)
pop battery in
Took me a couple tries, but I got my Vibrant into dl mode from nothing but a black screen (I could not register charging, or "phone ! pc" error)
intruda119 said:
Dont waste your time fellas with trying to get,into recovery/download mode. If its anything like my hardware locked vibrant there isn't a key combo that will work. Probably thinking that your doing something wrong,YOUR NOT.
Im using my vibrant on att so I didn't consider calling tmobile. I actually called samsung, and after 5min on the phone they agreed to repair/replace for free. They recieved my phone on saturday amd I got it back that following thursday.
Save yourself a headache and sending
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm am referencing more to the fact that these phones are not "hardware" locked. Hardware would refer to the volume & power keys not working... When your phone is on they work right?
Like stated before, IF, your phone is "hardware locked" look to either use the script or flash JI6. This way you re-gain functionality of the recovery & dl mode before flashing anything!
Ditto.. i got mine back after flashing without removing the lag fix.. never again... i will wait for froyo.. if that ever happens...
May I ask what bricked you?
nomadrider123 said:
Some one posted this in another thread. My brick got sent back before I could try this.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=8822843
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The brick, in atleast my case, was from untimely removal of the phone from USB during Download mode of flashing stock kernal via Odin. This method described in the link above worked for me in getting the phone to boot into download mode without the use of the hardware keys (aka hardware locked phones). I also contacted Samsung directly through their Galaxy tech line, and they said I could send it in for free with their shipping label and if they couldn't flash back I could get a replacement, but there was a about a 2 week window I would be looking at without a phone, so I tried the homemade download-boot circuit and it worked perfectly.
THIS IS YOUR FIX!!!
I just did this the other day. If you are still stuck with the phone/!/computer screen do the following:
1.Hold the volume up/down + power button simultaneously
2.The screen will go black / reappear/ then go black again...when this happens, release the power button and continue holding the volume up/down button
3.Welcome back to download mode!
Please Mods, please lock this thread
Please stop waisting everyones time with stupid instructions.
When a phone is "hardware locked" (that is, bad flash/missing the sbin file.....)
YOU CANNOT GET INTO DOWNLOAD MODE OR RECOVERY WITH ANY KEY COMBINATION.
Stop waisting your time trying anything cause its not going to work. And thats a Fact.
Final fix and summary to this thread,
Either call T-mobile or Samsung.
Finish.

Vibrant won't do turn on

I tried to upgrade to froyo using the odin method from this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=853950. After everything was successfully done my phone shut off and now it won't turn on. I don't get a battery charge screen or anything. The phone's just blank.....
First, Get the Shipping rom (pit and tar files) so you can ODIN back to stock
Be sure you have the newest version of ODIN
Then remove the battery, plug the USB to the PC.
Now put the battery back.
Press both vol keys (up and down) and hold.
That should get you in Download Mode.
If it does not work, take battery out, unmplug USB.
Put battery back and try again to go into download mode.
Now you put the wrong version of froyo, if your keys maps are changed you may be screwed
If so, good luck! You are gonna need a lot of research to see if you can save it
i think i'm screwed.....nothing is working
If anyone else could help me with this, it would be great. I'm in between a rock and a wall right now with my phone.
you flashed the wrong rom. You didn't know that, did you?
iynfynity said:
you flashed the wrong rom. You didn't know that, did you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I didn't know that sadly. Is there anyway I can save my phone?
Hehehehe...I bricked mine yesterday. I disabled voodoo via Voodoo Toggle and waited for Linda to convert. I loaded up Odin and put in my pit & tar for JFD, which I always use, and hit start. I was on Nero v3 going to flash Nero v4 when it came out. I got a Fail part of the way through. The phone won't power on at all.....A popup says Windows can't recognize the device plugged into usb...
I think people are confusing things here and there...if your phone won't power on at all, you can't get help...you can't get into download mode to odin or recover it.
Like mine, for instance, there is no amount of times taking the battery out or doing this or that is gonna fix it..We need to read the post before we try to offer help...IF IT WON'T POWER ON how can people post ways to ODIN or RECOVER...
I'm just sayin....
jmcghee1973 said:
Hehehehe...I bricked mine yesterday. I disabled voodoo via Voodoo Toggle and waited for Linda to convert. I loaded up Odin and put in my pit & tar for JFD, which I always use, and hit start. I was on Nero v3 going to flash Nero v4 when it came out. I got a Fail part of the way through. The phone won't power on at all.....A popup says Windows can't recognize the device plugged into usb...
I think people are confusing things here and there...if your phone won't power on at all, you can't get help...you can't get into download mode to odin or recover it.
Like mine, for instance, there is no amount of times taking the battery out or doing this or that is gonna fix it..We need to read the post before we try to offer help...IF IT WON'T POWER ON how can people post ways to ODIN or RECOVER...
I'm just sayin....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well right now I'm simply trying to get the phone to turn on which it won't, I was not asking for help to odin or recover. I was trying to ask if anyone else had this problem and if my phone is totally killed or if there's a possibility that i can save it. But thanks for your 2 cents.
Me too
I had ordered Samsung Vibrant Unlocked from T-Mobile USA around a month back. I am well past the 30 day replacement now.
I Rooted it updated to Axura 2.2.5.9
After all the procedure got completed, I rebooted the phone and now it just won't start at all.
My piece is Hardware Locked wherein I can't get into the Recovery Mode, but can get into the Download Mode. But I am not even able to get into the Download mode now.
It just won't freaking turn on.
If I send it over for repair, as the phone is a rooted one, will I void the warranty ?
Please reply quickly. I am starting to freak out.
OK... I want to be the first to eat my words here!!!!!
I tried one last time...just now
I took everything out and only held the volume keys. I plugged in the USB cable to the PC and then to the phone & put the battery in and BAM!!!!! it came on in Download mode
This way has NEVER worked for me without holding the power button. This phone was in all senses of the word "DEAD". I figured I would give it a try with just the volume keys.
jmcghee1973 said:
OK... I want to be the first to eat my words here!!!!!
I tried one last time...just now
I took everything out and only held the volume keys. I plugged in the USB cable to the PC and then to the phone & put the battery in and BAM!!!!! it came on in Download mode
This way has NEVER worked for me without holding the power button. This phone was in all senses of the word "DEAD". I figured I would give it a try with just the volume keys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol you must be very happy after that, good to great that.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
jmcghee1973 said:
OK... I want to be the first to eat my words here!!!!!
I tried one last time...just now
I took everything out and only held the volume keys. I plugged in the USB cable to the PC and then to the phone & put the battery in and BAM!!!!! it came on in Download mode
This way has NEVER worked for me without holding the power button. This phone was in all senses of the word "DEAD". I figured I would give it a try with just the volume keys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the same issue and this isn't working for me.
are there any other ideas?
it is completely dead. I am using a new battery and a known good usb cable to the computer.
I have tried holding all three buttons...just the vol up and down...vol up and power...etc... and nothing.
I even created that little JTAG thingy that I found on YouTube...that did nothing also
Different Situation
I have a similar problem with my Vibrant.
I reset my battery stats and also disabled VooDoo lagfix, and after i tried to reboot the phone, it froze on the vibrant screen.
I tried using soome of the methods that you guys posted before me, but then after i turn it on it shows an icon that there is a connection problem between the phone and PC.
I CAN turn on the phone, is there a way to just like reset everything? and if so how?
Thanks!
IClassStriker said:
I have a similar problem with my Vibrant.
I reset my battery stats and also disabled VooDoo lagfix, and after i tried to reboot the phone, it froze on the vibrant screen.
I tried using soome of the methods that you guys posted before me, but then after i turn it on it shows an icon that there is a connection problem between the phone and PC.
I CAN turn on the phone, is there a way to just like reset everything? and if so how?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your phone powers on at all, you should be able to get into DL mode. Follow the instructions on how to revert to stock via ODIN.
In reply to the OP, if you tried the download mode method:
connect phone to usb
pull out battery
hold both volume sticks
put in batttery
and the phone still does not turn on even after multiple tries , well you're a bit screwed. But, Samsung cannot detect if the phone has been rooted if it cannot even turn on. Just tell them the Kies Mini update bricked the phone.
omg leave ur phone on charger for 10 min, pull battery out when hooked up to charger put battery back in , let sit for few min pull battery out hook up phone to computer hold vol up vol down pop battery in , helped ? np this has been answered gazilion times in other threads
btw it takes few try this way to get it back up running so dont stop on first , hey .
If you have the phone!pc problem..connect to odin & see if your showing a COM port .... just flash pit & tar if you do. Without download mode
Sent from Bionix V powered Vibrant
my phone shut off and now it won't turn on. I don't get a battery charge screen or anything. The phone's just blank.....
If you have the phone!pc problem..connect to odin & see if your showing a COM port .... just flash pit & tar if you do. Without download mode
yes u do that it makes sense lol
gmoney007 said:
I got the same issue and this isn't working for me.
are there any other ideas?
it is completely dead. I am using a new battery and a known good usb cable to the computer.
I have tried holding all three buttons...just the vol up and down...vol up and power...etc... and nothing.
I even created that little JTAG thingy that I found on YouTube...that did nothing also
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're talking about a DIY Jig. A JTAG is completely different. They cost $150-300. You can pay to have a local repair shop jtag it for around $50 or send it to Samsung to repair/replace. I'm still trying to find out how much Samsung would charge for the repair if it's deemed out of warranty.
If your phone refuses to turn on no matter what you do and it gets warm or hot if you leave the battery in it, read on:
I hope my suggestion is not too late. I was in the situation before. I tried everything everyone said here and somewhere else. None of them works.
The reason that those methods don't work because you cannot get to download or recovery mode or even the pc-phone screen since your phone won't turn on. The reason that your phone doesn't turn on because the bootloader has been messed up. A jig will work only if your phone can be turned on somehow.
Three possible solutions:
1. Repair or replace it with T-mobile, or
2. Get someone to repair it with a riff box or other similar tool, or
3. Get the box and fix it yourself (not recommended if you are not familiar with electronic stuff.)
This is the link for the same problem you have; this guy bought the box and has his phone fixed himself. If you live in US, he may do it for you if you have no place to go. It does hurt to ask.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=974862&page=6

Dead vibrant, nothing on screen, no DMode! Help!!

Hi,
I'm going to keep it as short as I can, just bought a vibrant and rooted in a nice way, then I tried to use odin to update from 2.1 to 2.2, it did it but then the screen goes black and it doesn't shows anything and when i say anything I really mean it, no battery when I plug it, and no brick message. Then I discovered that I used the wrong image to try and update it the one for the i9000
note:
i tried to put it on download mode, but as i said before it doesn't do anything is literally dead it, i think I'm going out of options i got no idea what to do anymore, PLZ SOMEONE GIVE ME SOME HOPE!!!
Two options
1) Go to radio shack, spend a few bucks and build a custom USB jig that will get you into download mode. The thread is here somewhere in the forums, search for it.
2) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1277056
UnBrickable Mod is awesome! It's easier to upload download mode with a click then to hold buttons.
SamsungVibrant said:
Two options
1) Go to radio shack, spend a few bucks and build a custom USB jig that will get you into download mode. The thread is here somewhere in the forums, search for it.
2) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1277056
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did one myself, and tested on a friend captivate, but my vibrant still the same NOTHING!, i mean wtf! the only thing it could have is a software/firmware problem but it seems he completely died on me!! :/
I had a bad cable once and had a odin flash go wrong..
Started out with download mode, but with no luck connecting to pc via 2 diff computers (not realizing it was the cable at the time) I kept messing around with it, sometimes connecting, then Odin screwing up again and eventually got to your point...nothing whatsoever, DEAD
After a while...called TMO and ordered a replacement...but didn't give up, I kept on with cable to phone, then pc...vice versa...battery in/out..and eventually out of nowhere it came back on..no idea how..one thing I do remember is reading to use vol up+down, but for me there was some weird combo where I think i started with up+down, then let go of up(kept holding down, or just used vol down)..can't quite remember...but don't give up..again mine was dead dead dead...somehow she came back...keep trying different things no JIG...
EDIT: Take your micro sd out of the phone and sim card too...that much i do remember...
accordex said:
I had a bad cable once and had a odin flash go wrong..
Started out with download mode, but with no luck connecting to pc via 2 diff computers (not realizing it was the cable at the time) I kept messing around with it, sometimes connecting, then Odin screwing up again and eventually got to your point...nothing whatsoever, DEAD
After a while...called TMO and ordered a replacement...but didn't give up, I kept on with cable to phone, then pc...vice versa...battery in/out..and eventually out of nowhere it came back on..no idea how..one thing I do remember is reading to use vol up+down, but for me there was some weird combo where I think i started with up+down, then let go of up(kept holding down, or just used vol down)..can't quite remember...but don't give up..again mine was dead dead dead...somehow she came back...keep trying different things no JIG...
EDIT: Take your micro sd out of the phone and sim card too...that much i do remember...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thx for the ray of hope pal but I think i'll just sell ir or something anyway doesn't hurt to keep trying until it happens, i have seen mostly 2 kind of options on internet the buttons combo and the jig tried them both nothing seems to work, I just think i have no luck, i bought the cell and 48h later it was already dead.....anyways thx to the people who bothered to answer me
Options:
1.you can call TMO for replacement.
2. Let the technician open it maybe there's something wrong wid d digitizer
3.Have you heard about the JTAG? It can resurrect your phone!
Djhemz07 said:
Options:
1.you can call TMO for replacement.
2. Let the technician open it maybe there's something wrong wid d digitizer
3.Have you heard about the JTAG? It can resurrect your phone!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
UnBrickable mod is way better than JTAG. You should check it out. JTAG works once. UnBrickable mod allows software based recovery always and works on a dead brick with no special tools once its applied.
There two videos on the portal now which mention it. I'd like to think people are using it.. after all, this mod doesn't just happen. It takes someone to put in the work to research it... ahem...
option 1
--------
1. remove the sim-card and the memory card
2. remove the battery
3. connect the USB cable to the computer and to the cellphone (still no battery).
4. press on both volume buttons (volume up+volume down)
5.while you press on the buttons enter the battery into the cellphone.
option 2
--------
1. connect the USB cable to the computer and to the cellphone
2. press on both volume buttons (volume up+volume down)
3. press and hold the power button
4. the screen will dim - keep pressing on the buttons (3 of them)
5. the screen will show up the cellphone-computer picture - keep pressing...
6. the screen will dimm again - keep pressing
7. the screen will show up with the vibrant logo
8. leave the buttons - now the cellphone should enter to download mode
AdamOutler said:
UnBrickable mod is way better than JTAG. You should check it out. JTAG works once. UnBrickable mod allows software based recovery always and works on a dead brick with no special tools once its applied.
There two videos on the portal now which mention it. I'd like to think people are using it.. after all, this mod doesn't just happen. It takes someone to put in the work to research it... ahem...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sounds interesting i'll try those method anyone mind sending me the links?? btw how am i supposed to connect my phone onto the PC if it doesn't start which means it doesn't get recognized???? and a friend told me that i ****ed the Boot load does it fix that too??
vicmelgen said:
sounds interesting i'll try those method anyone mind sending me the links?? btw how am i supposed to connect my phone onto the PC if it doesn't start which means it doesn't get recognized????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just connect it to the pc even if it doesn't recognized
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
did you try this?
battery out...
battery in--> hold only vol UP and power? for a few seconds

[Q] Is my Note saveable?

Update; Rangercaptain and 440bro suggested the power switch or the usb port may be the problem.
I dismantled the phone and got my ohm-meter, the power button's circuit is opening and closing as it should between pressed and depressed.
Furthermore I tested the usb port for conductivity at each pin, from the side of the usb cable that would normally connect to the pc all the way through the 'charging flex ribbon' to the phones PCB. all connections are good.
Editing this post as I try new things i find or the things i try that people suggest.
Currently my Note will not boot into recovery or it's ROM, I was running a version of Slimbean.
I can get it to go into download mode via the volume down + power key but I can not for life of me get any pc to recognize it via usb.
I have tried Odin, Adb, and Heimdall with five or six different versions of Samsung USB drivers, Version #'s 1.5.14.0, 1.4.6.0, as well as the drivers listed in the Note 'Super thread' ATT I717 v1_3_2200_0 and two other sets of drivers that did not have version numbers listed, but came from other XDA USB problem posts. I have also tried the Google drivers from the Android SDK.
I have done all this on two different pc's and different usb cables. I've read other problem threads about this and tried most of those suggestions I.E. Uninstall old drivers, reboot, install new ones, reboot, turn off internet, plug in phone. Nada, no sign of the device being recognized at all.
I've tried the 'adb devices' command while the device was in download mode, the command returns nothing.
the USB port still works so far as i can tell, if you plug it in to a charger or the pc the phone will try to boot like it usually does if it's powered off and you plug it in and the phone had been charging fine before this issue, so i've no reason to suspect a bad port.
I have however encountered this USB problem before even while the note was stock and functioning with it not being recognizable over USB, I eventually gave up and it's what caused me to install a ROM on it in the first place because i couldn't get the official android updates with Kies (they require a usb connection).
Would a USB jig be of any benefit in this situation? After searching through XDA forums and the like that's the only thing that seems like it may work but i haven't tried. I'm unclear if it will be of any benefit because the device can already access the ODIN downloading screen.
All in all I've been working on this for about 12 hours so far, so it's possible i may have forgotten something I've tried but i'll update if i remember anything significant.
Finally I'm aware there are two similar threads currently running on the XDA note troubleshooting forums,"Is my note bricked?" and "can't enter download mode" I am also watching them and trying anything that looks relevant but elected to make a new post as my problem is slightly different in that I can access the download screen. If you posted anything there that you think may have applied here, you don't have to re-post. I'll have tried it.
Your power button is stuck.
rangercaptain said:
Your power button is stuck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I should clarify that the reboot cycle is not indefinite though. it'll give the boot vibration 6-8 times with a few seconds in between each vibration and then stop trying to boot. It also doesn't cycle every time, just occasionally. The other times it will give the vibration only once and then do nothing till you hold the power button down again as if you were trying to turn it on.
It will also stay in the downloading mode until i manually hold the power button down, so the power button is functioning correctly.
morthicius said:
. . . so the power button is functioning correctly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you say so.
Take out the sim and sd card.
I have tried removing the SD card and SIM card as well. Makes no noticeable difference.
I can also add that the USB port still works so far as i can tell, if you plug it in to a charger or the pc the phone will try to boot like it usually does if it's powered off and you plug it in.
I can dismantle the phone and check the power button if you're fairly convinced that's what it is but it really responds exactly like you would expect. The press and return feels fine and the way the device responds to it also feels fine.
Yeah I'm pretty sure it's a stuck power button. If the phone is off and you plug in usb, or charger it should NOT startup by itself. If it does it's most definitely a stuck power button. So I'm guessing your phone is no longer covered by warranty?
Before you go tearing apart the phone try this first. Take off the battery cover and where the power button is you'll see a lil outline. Flick this area with your finger a few times. Flick it hard enough to mildly hurt your finger but not the phone. I had to do this for a while till I got a new note. If that doesn't help take it apart at your own risk.
440bro said:
Yeah I'm pretty sure it's a stuck power button. If the phone is off and you plug in usb, or charger it should NOT startup by itself. If it does it's most definitely a stuck power button. So I'm guessing your phone is no longer covered by warranty?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It has always started up on its own when you plug it in, at least if it's out of charge. Of that I'm certain. I've had the phone a year and a half or so now. It may not boot up on it's own if you just manually shut it off and plug in a charger though. I don't recall ever trying that scenario directly. It could also be a functionality Slimbean added if stock phones don't do it.
I did just try your flick trick though, thanks. No change.
Just as another example on the power button, I can take the battery out and put it back in and the phone will do nothing until i hold the power button down a few seconds, only then does it do the the "i'm trying to boot" vibration.
Damn I was really hoping the flick trick worked for you like it did me. If you decide to take the back of the phone off, try flicking again anyways before you completely disassemble it. Once you disassemble it, there really isn't much you can do power button wise other than replace it. I'll attach a pic of the power button area for ya. I have one already torn down.
If it's not your power button, I wonder if it's your usb charger port on the phone.... That's an easier part to replace if it is.
I do feel like the USB port is a possibility, even despite my saying it appears to work. is it possible for the port to be damaged in such a way that it still allows the phone to be charged but not establish a data connection? When the phone went brick yesterday It had pretty much just finished fully charging. I had disconnected it from the charger used it a little bit, set it down when it still at about 98% battery life. Around 10 minutes later I got a text message, it made the god awful slimbean text tone (i hate that tone) I went to check it, turned on the display it then repeated the incoming text message tone about five more times in quick succession, locked up, and then died never to return.
I have had the phone apart before because i'm a curious cat, and didn't really mind voiding a warranty.
The only things that would make me skeptical of it being a usb port problem is. 1: It was charging fine and 2: the symptoms at least of the reboot problem itself are leaning towards a software issue the Slimbean install has never really worked great, and would crash and reboot probably twice a day.
Just because the button works doesn't mean it isn't stuck. I've only saved about ten phones by helping the owner to understand the cause of the reboots.
The fact that you already opened the phone increases the chance its the button. Because you said it rebooted on stock or custom ROMs eliminated software. Because your phone charges normally and is recognized by a pc shows its not the usb port.
But hey, what do I know. . .
morthicius said:
Editing this post as I try new things i find or the things i try that people suggest.
Currently my Note is in a reboot cycle, it will not load the ROM or go into recovery mode. I was running a version of Slimbean.
I can get it to go into download mode via the volume down + power key but I can not for life of me get any pc to recognize it via usb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
rangercaptain said:
Just because the button works doesn't mean it isn't stuck. I've only saved about ten phones by helping the owner to understand the cause of the reboots.
The fact that you already opened the phone increases the chance its the button. Because you said it rebooted on stock or custom ROMs eliminated software. Because your phone charges normally and is recognized by a pc shows its not the usb port.
But hey, what do I know. . .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He has more than one problem. He can NOT get a pc to recognize it. I missed it first too and had to re-read it a few times. So it could be the port, or the power button.
I think your options are....
-Find a repair center nearby
-Send it in for repair
-Find out which part is cheaper and replace that yourself first.
Sounds good. The usb port is cheap and easy and while the bezel is off you can verify the power button isn't stuck in its hole in the bezel.
Because he flashed a custom ROM from a stock ROM I took that to mean he had to connect to a pc through the usb port, either to Odin flash a recovery or Odin flash Slimbean. And he can still charge it. And data cables go bad, removing drivers doesn't take them out of memory, etc. So usb port isn't 100% bad for sure, but you're right, its a cheap, easy repair.
rangercaptain said:
Just because the button works doesn't mean it isn't stuck. I've only saved about ten phones by helping the owner to understand the cause of the reboots.
The fact that you already opened the phone increases the chance its the button. Because you said it rebooted on stock or custom ROMs eliminated software. Because your phone charges normally and is recognized by a pc shows its not the usb port.
But hey, what do I know. . .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the button is 'stuck' it implies that the it's either stuck engaged or disengaged correct?
If that were true and lets say it were stuck engaged, the power button should be acting as if it is pressed. Which at first would make sense when i say it reboot cycles. It however does not make sense that i can get into download mode and the phone never shuts off until I hit the power button.
It also does not make sense that if i pull the battery out and put it back in the phone does nothing. until i hit the power button. If it were stuck engaged the phone would immediately try to boot when i put the battery back in.
The rom has also been on it for awhile now, 6 months? So i don't exactly remember the processes i went through but i know i never got kies or odin to recognize it. And Yeah, pc wont recognize it now even tryin two different pcs, one of which has never had a samsung device connected to it.
That said I wont rule the power button out either, Is there a good way to check the power button with a multimeter?
I should also say I have the phone apart now so i could at least do external checks of the power button since you both thought it was a possibility, externally it looks fine the actual button inside the case (the little white button the big silver one hits) acts fine but the circuit inside could still be screwed i suppose, which is why i ask about a meter test.
Ultimately I think you're both right though, I'm just going to have order a replacement button and port. Start with the port since it's easier, and if that doesn't enable me to connect it to the pc to flash it try the button too.
Since you mention the ROM, it is possible to have a bad download, flash the ROM, and get into a bootloop. The usual cure for that is a re-download of the ROM, wipe caches, wipe system, and flash fresh ROM.
The sticking power button is a common fault of Samsung phones. Its not broken, but it just gets a little out of alignment in its hole in the bezel. If you already wiggled and snapped, you would have noticed a difference in the phone's behavior, unless there's lint under it.
I think you have your plan -- replace the usb port, and check the button while the phone is without the bezel.
The usb port is on ebay and there is a Youtube video for the process. Everything is here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=28247335
Good luck.
Thanks for the Help Ranger and 440.
Update; Rangercaptain and 440bro suggested the power switch or the usb port may be the problem.
I dismantled the phone and got my ohm-meter, the power button's circuit is opening and closing as it should between pressed and depressed.
Furthermore I tested the usb port for conductivity at each pin, from the side of the usb cable that would normally connect to the pc all the way through the 'charging flex ribbon' to the phones PCB. all connections are good.
I'm going to try the phone tonight on a friends PC. Who doesn't have another note but at least has a Samsung Gs2 and 3 that connect to Kies and see if i can get it to establish a connection.
If anybody else has any ideas on troubleshooting the connection between the device and a PC i'm all ears.
Good luck!
440bro said:
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well interestingly, when i hooked it up to the friends pc (using one of the same usb cables i already had) not only did his pc recognize it, the phone also booted up immediately. with 15% battery life remaining.
Strange strange.

Categories

Resources