I am certain that by now (over) half of the (normal) Archos G9 users really only want one thing and NOBODY (including Archos) seems to care at all about doing it!
Very few need/want 'rooted' firmware (not to mention it wastes valuable memory space because the original Archos firmware is still leftover).
What MOST of us actually want (and in many cases need) is a simple way to just remove the totally idiotic restriction that Archos has put in their firmware that prevents us from ever installing an older firmware version (that is KNOWN to work correctly on our specific device).
At one point, somewhere during the problems with the 4.0.x firmware releases Archos did actually provide a way for users to go back to 3.2.80. WHY they have not provided us with a way to go back from the the 4.0.2x (worthless garbage) firmware releases to older firmware that we KNOW actually works makes no sense at all. Seems like they just hope you will be stupid enough to by a newer Archos model (something I sure will never ever do with that kind of idiot way of dealing with us users).
It's bad enough that Archos does not care at all about us users, but... there are some really sharp and smart people here on XDA that SHOULD be able to hack around things. Yet, it seems like none of them have any interest in doing so. WHY???
firmware
55mls said:
It's bad enough that Archos does not care at all about us users, but... there are some really sharp and smart people here on XDA that SHOULD be able to hack around things. Yet, it seems like none of them have any interest in doing so. WHY???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because the most likely result would be a bricked tablet. It is not an easy thing to do and people who could do this are not wanting to use older firmware. Not that I'm one of the sharp and smart people but I think archos has keys you would need and they don't release them to the public.
stevemp said:
Because the most likely result would be a bricked tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this point I would be happy to brick my 101 G9 since it's of absolutely no use to me now anymore without having to install SDE and rooted 4.0.7 firmware (I've come close to bricking it a few times with all the various rooted/custom/alternative firmwares and other crazy things I've tried myself already). In other words, if NOBODY ELSE finds a way... I'll just keep trying things myself until it either works or ends up bricked. Not like it really matters now to me now anymore
It is not an easy thing to do and people who could do this are not wanting to use older firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although I'm no expert on things, I actually think that it really is NOT all that hard to do (if anybody that actually knows what they are doing would care to do it). I think you are dead on with how all the so-called 'developers' simply only care about whatever the next thing they can do instead of about actually fixing anything with the actual Archos firmware. Seems rather foolish to me though when they could actually PROVE how good they are by actually doing something instead of just adding all kinds of extra fluff (most of which can be downloaded/installed from Google Play for anyone with a stock rooted ROM if they really wanted that junk).
Not that I'm one of the sharp and smart people but I think archos has keys you would need and they don't release them to the public.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And that brings us right back to my original question... WHY? By now, Archos has already totally ruined their reputation. They've gone out of their way to totally trash as many G9 tablets as they could, then hoped people would just buy their newer devices... and NONE of their newer devices actually work right either. So, WHY would a company want to continue running their reputation down the toilet when they COULD actually do something that MIGHT actually improve it?
In other words, the one single thing that Archos COULD have done for us G9 users was to provide a way to install whatever older 'official' firmware version that we KNOW actually did work on our devices? So, again we're right back to WHY had Archos not done what us G9 users actually need/want instead of locking us into crap we NEVER WANTED?
I suppose I COULD live with rooted stock 4.0.7 if I ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO, but...
Installing SDE and the kernel files for rooted firmware use up some RAM space. And, with only 512MB to start with, well every single bit (pun intended) alters the capabilities and performance of the device. Heck, just going from official Archos 3.2.80 to official 4.0.7 already was at a cost of both RAM and system memory space.
On top of that, installing a 'rooted' firmware always uses up even more of the system flash memory. Depending which ROM, that ranges from 300MB to 500MB. When you only have an 8GB device, that really only ever had a little over about 6GB of usable flash left with official Archos firmware...
Well, when installing a 'rooted' ROM, that uses up more space for the ROM on top of the space that the original Archos firmware. And, that's the part that really bugs me!!! I had already been suckered into that the device had 8GB of Flash, then found out only really had about 6GB of "usable" memory, then had to install SDE and a 'rooted' ROM to ever get it to work right again ending up with only about 5GB of flash in the end (even deleting the leftover archos.ext4.backup file does not get back to what the device originally had).
Now, if somebody could tell me how to remove/delete ALL of the supposed 'official' Archos firmware so that I would actually have what I originally would have with the 'official' Archos firmware... well, I MIGHT just be happy enough to live with it (even though it DO NOT WANT 'root').
Anyway, I just don't care anymore!!! I simply want ALL TRACES of that horrible crappy Archos official 4.0.2x firmware TOTALLY REMOVED from my device!!! I'd prefer that it be totally reset to something close to whatever it came with (maybe something like 3.2.79) and then be able to upgrade to whatever higher firmware I want from there.
Oh, wait a minute, there ARE companies that actually do repair/refurbish these G9 tablets and CAN reset them... so, it would cut into their profit making if anybody else ever told us how they do it. Sure, now I get it... paid $250, now pay another $200 to get it to work again. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll totally brick this thing and throw it into the garbage before paying to have it fixed now anymore. Damn LiThion batteries only last 2 years before the drop way down in usage, and I'm already coming up on a year and a half since this piece of Archos crap came out. Now I get it, just throw it away and NEVER buy another Archos procduct again!!!
I called up Archos today and had a stock answer when I asked about this.
I didn't give up and they have passed the issue to the tech department. (my hopes aren't high) however the bloke I spoke to said he hadn't had any calls or feedback regarding this.
he suggested formatting then loading up the older firmware, after instructing me how to download older firmwares by copying link then pasting, then editing build number for firmware I wanted.
I told him that Archos doesn't allow for this and everyone else does, so it isn't software from google but from archos that is blocking the install.
he took my number and said I would get a callback....
will update if I ever get one
y2grae said:
he took my number and said I would get a callback....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome to a group of thousands that will very likely never get any response back from Archos!
Pretty clear that is not going to happen simply because of the totally idiot instructions that gave you. Seems like EVERYBODY ELSE except the people at Archos already KNOWS FOR A FACT that you can not install any older firmware version. Why they ever told you to even try to do that is just pure stupidity on there part.
Of course, if they actually do call you back an provide any USEFUL information I'm all ears, but I don't expect anything from Archos on this matter at all now anymore, or they WOULD have already told us how to do it. After all, it was about 3 months before they got around to putting out 4.0.28... and even then the screwed it up and there are actually 3 different versions of 4.0.28 they put out (am I the ONLY one that caught that and actually cares about it?... Seems surdu_petru has NOT bothered to update his rooted ROMS to the last of what Archos put out).
Really sick of Archos trying to con people over and over and over and over and over and over (am I repeating myself of is Archos?).
Related
I did one flash...to TNT version 4xx, and I loved it...but I'm finding I'm getting lots of Google Framework errors and generally just kind of want to start from scratch, over again.....go back to the latest version of the official viewsonic roms.
Sadly I didn't use clockwork or anything so I think my original files are history
I know there are lots of threads, and I tried to follow one about snagging a rom and moving it to the Root and all it does is re-install TNT I think I am "not getting something".
Can someone walk me through this....
The force closes can be fixed by re-partitioning your sd card. Part 1 Step 7 in this tutorial:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=865245
But partitioning will erase everything, and is usually done after installing cwm and before flashing a rom.
You really don't want to go back to stock, especially if it's only to gain stability. All the force closes will go away when the tablet is properly formatted.
If your looking to go back to stock, I like nvflash, but there are easier ways.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=861950
Force closing is a known issue that can be easily fixed by repartitioning your internal sd card to the right specs. It has nothing to do with your newly flashed rom.
What you need to do is back up all your data on the sdcard and then go into clockworkmod advance and repartition to 2048/0.
Added by edit.
To be honest, your original post tells me the gtab isn't for you. I say a mainstream device like the ipad is more for you. Here is why. In order to use the gtab, you need to do the following things.
(1) Install clockworkmod.
(2) Use clockworkmod to repartition to fix the force closing issue.
(3) Use clockworkmod to flash a new rom.
And you're done. The entire process takes about 10 minutes at most.
Again, steps 1-3 should take you 10 minutes at most and the device is ready for use. If you find yourself frustrated by one of these steps or that you're spending more than 20 minutes, then the gtab is not for you and you need to get a mainstream device.
goodintentions said:
Again, steps 1-3 should take you 10 minutes at most and the device is ready for use. If you find yourself frustrated by one of these steps or that you're spending more than 20 minutes, then the gtab is not for you and you need to get a mainstream device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This recommendation is of course assuming you have no determination whatsoever, and are incapable of learning anything new.
brettdwagner said:
This recommendation is of course assuming you have no determination whatsoever, and are incapable of learning anything new.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look, for most people this device is a toy. I use it at work, and I suspect most people don't do this. Let's admit it. Modding a device isn't for everybody.
I went into modding the gtab as a total android newbie. And yet it took me all of 15 minutes to figure out how to install clockworkmod, repartition, and flash a custom rom. Then a week after I flashed a custom kernel.
You just can't ask everybody to go through the headache of modding a device if they have neither the will nor the time.
I said 15 minutes because that was my first time ever modding an android device. After that first time, it took me about 5 minutes to do my second device.
It's a simple process to go through. If a person gets stuck on any of those 3 steps, then I think it's best that they get a mainstream device. The gtab just isn't for everybody.
HeadRusch1,
I think you can handle modding the gTab. If you understand how a file system works, can extract a zip, and have already flashed a custom ROM then your about 90% of the way to a smooth running gTab. As mentioned above, you simply missed one step.
I understand the "10 minutes or forget it" argument, however I think it's wildly inaccurate when gauging a new user's potential competency with the gTab. If you find yourself frustrated then go read some more, search for a solution, or ask a question. It should take a long time to get comfortable modifying Android devices, there are tons of loosely documented best practices, but don't bail early because it's hard.
PS.
This assumes your looking for a device to tinker with. Goodintentions is right for users who are looking for iPad equivalent. I just assume that users looking for a cheap iPad rarely make it as far as XDA. And if they have, then it's a good opportunity to encourage further exploration.
The reason I gave the 20 minutes advice is because I've seen too many people buying the gtab thinking they got an ipad. The gtab isn't mainstream at all even though it's outsold a lot of the mainstream devices out there (ahem xoom) by several orders of magnitude. Customer support for the gtab is almost non-existent. And don't hold your breath for updates from viewsonic.
I absolutely love my gtab. I am currently running vegan ginger OC to 1.2ghz. The speed on my gtab is absolutely stunning. There's no jerking at all. My touchscreen is incredibly sensitive. Viewing angle has never bothered me. I love the full size usb where I can just put a memory stick in there just like my laptop. The autocad app is extremely helpful for me. In fact, it's been a whole week since I turned on my laptop.
That said, again, this device is not mainstream. Meaning it's not for most people. I am absolutely convinced that most people would be better off with something like the ipad or transformer.
Based on my experience, there are two types of people in the world of gadgets. (1) Those who sees a problem and see the end of the world and (2) those who sees a problem and try to get around it.
An example of #1 is my friend Sarah. She wanted to use my gtab to get a feel for it. She said the touchscreen bothered her and that she was more comfortable with a laptop touchpad more. And then she said "I don't know, I think I'll be better off with an ipad." LOL. Boy is she going to be so surprised to find out the ipad also uses the touchscreen rather than an touchpad.
Anyway, another example is one of my colleagues. After I told him the autocad app doesn't work with 3-D view yet, he acted like it was the end of the world. Me, I just use the side, top, and front views in my demos. Works just fine for me.
Anyway, I'm rambling now. The point is my experiences tell me most people are better off with something like an ipad or transformer. Since those devices are mainstream, people can't say "of course you can't do this, you can't do that". With the gtab, since it is not mainstream, the smallest inconvenience means the end of the world.
HeadRusch1 said:
I did one flash...to TNT version 4xx, and I loved it...but I'm finding I'm getting lots of Google Framework errors and generally just kind of want to start from scratch, over again.....go back to the latest version of the official viewsonic roms.
Sadly I didn't use clockwork or anything so I think my original files are history
I know there are lots of threads, and I tried to follow one about snagging a rom and moving it to the Root and all it does is re-install TNT I think I am "not getting something".
Can someone walk me through this....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Plug the gtablet into the computer.
Mount it for file transfer when prompted.
Check for an "update.zip" file at the root of the SD card (That's the tablet's 16gb internal memory). Delete it using your computer. That was causing TNT to be reloaded.
Here's the link to the original 3588 version they shipped with: http://tapntap.http.internapcdn.net/tapntap/viewsonic/update-smb_a1002-3588-user.zip Save it to your computer. Rename it "update.zip". Copy it to the root of the gtablet SD. Shut off the tablet. Unplug the USB cord. Restart with power & vol +
It should update.
If anyone notices a mistake, feel free to correct me. I've only flashed from stock 3588 to Vegan Ginger. So a whole 1x.
For what its worth, I tinkered and now I'm good.
Got NVFLASH working, went back to stock. Then went to Clockwork, then went to Vegan 5.1.1, then to CM7, now back to Vegan. I've found some apps that work and I'm liking it more. For the record, I own an Ipad2 as well.
Now, to those who chose to comment: You guys need to understand that many of those links are drowning in "extra information", and that is fine if you don't mind clicking hyperlink to hyperlink to do some trial and error, but now with multiple install path choices and whatnot, it gets confusing and it also means you have some time. I asked for someone, possibly someone in my shoes who has been down the path, to walk me through the steps.
Some of you did, some of you projected some assumptions with the underlying message of "RTFM".
This, too, was my first dip into the Android pool. Thanks for the help.
HeadRusch1 said:
I'm getting lots of Google Framework errors and generally just kind of want to start from scratch, over again.....go back to the latest version of the official viewsonic roms.
Sadly I didn't use clockwork or anything...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had that issue and didn't have clockwork.
Solution:
1: install clockwork
2: boot into clockwork, and select 'fix permissions'.
3: reboot, tablet fixed
Just updated by GS2 to KF4 (official UK 3 firmware)
Since then, the phone has an annoying couple of faults:
Cant get GPS lock unless a battery out restart is performed
More importantly, wont connect to the internet unless the handset is restarted, and then, if I leave the phone alone and try and browse again, I need to restart it.
Full 3G/HSDPA signal; calls and texts are fine, both incoming and outgoing. Just the interwebinet.
At the moment, my phone and I are not friends. It's in 3 seperate drawers; body in the top, battery in the middle, and back in the third drawer down.
Any assistance would be appreciated. I dont want to downgrade, or fully reset the phone, beacuse:
1: I shouldnt have to. The firmware update should make things better, not worse. Whilst I realise this is a stupid statement to make, and am fully aware that these niggles happen, I'm a stubborn bastard and (for the moment) am sticking to my guns.
2: I shouldnt have to.
Cheers
Added to my annoyance is that if I have to send the phone off to be repaired, it actually has to be sent off.
Apple let me go to a store, where they just replaced the handset. Perfect.
I moved away from the restrictions that Apple imposed on their devices, right into the jaws of badly written firmware, and an awful warranty scheme.
Heh, in this world there is a lot of SHOULD NOT HAVE TO, but in the end you will cave in...
Just DOOoooooooooo it!
Incidentally, I hear you singing "iPHONE4, buy buy buy" tune.
If flashing firmware started the problem then flashing firmware is the solution. Go back to an older version, if you're not happy with the one you have.
You don't send your phone back for a software problem, whatever make it is.
I've been singing the iphone tune for years. I gave my "4" to the missus because I wanted to escape and get the GS2. Until now, it's been fine; overheated a couple of times, but apart from that, no worries.
OK, then can I downgrade back to KE1, official 3 firmware, which I had no issue with, without losing my data?
trs020382 said:
OK, then can I downgrade back to KE1, official 3 firmware, which I had no issue with, without losing my data?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah - most of the firmware updates don't wipe, but it's always advisable to backup everything regardless. Are you familiar with Titanium Backup? It's the most commonly advised backup app, and my personal choice.
It's quite common for people to try a few different firmware versions before they find one they're totally happy with, and it seems to vary from person-to-person, so it's just trial and error on your part.
I'm sure you'll find a good one without having to send your new toy away for weeks
Cheers
Where can I find said version to attempt a downgrade? Is this to be done through Kies or some other way?
To be fair, I've been pretty restrained with this new toy. When things go wrong, I normally have them on eBay within minutes, regretting it after the smug "i showed it" feeling had worn off!
Putting it away somewhere that I can't see it, has delayed that (for the moment).
Have a look at the xda bookmarks in my signature. There's links there for official firmwares and branded carrier firmwares - just take your pick. They explain how to flash them in those threads, but it's a doddle. You just run Odin, connect the phone in download mode, select the downloaded firmware file and click a button.
Just make sure to read the 1st post in the relevant thread thoroughly and you'll be fine.
I have installed here XXKI3 POLAND (I9100_XEO_I9100XXKI3_I9100OXAKI3_I9100XXKI3-GT), but I wanted to go back to 2.3.4 (zto) that is a downgrade .... if you want to know how and whether some procedure changes? have to do some different procedure?
Leverage and ask .... POLAND 2.3.5 that I am that I quoted above is to do the procedure with the root factoryfs?? if you like, which kernel should I use??
i've had my prime for a couple of months now, although really i've only personally had it for a number of weeks, as it's been returned twice for repair... for some stupid reason they won't replace units here in Australia, only repair (even though mine was cactus out of the box and therefore clearly DOA!)
so i've been lucky enough to have working wifi, no crashes/reboots, etc... but had a dead pixel (first time sent back) and issues with the keyboard/dock not working (second time sent back)
just received it back after they fixed the keyboard/dock (and left some hefty scratches on the tablet and dock, not impressed at all!), and from what i can gather it seems they've left some sort of test rom on it?
OPEN_epad-eng 3.2.1 HTK7 OPEN_epad-8.8.0.119.1-20111222 test-keys
has a number of test tools installed, and rooted, but can't do update firmware, as it doesn't find any firmware, i'm assuming because it's OPEN_epad rather than WW_epad
are my only options now to either send it back yet again, or use the unlock tool to flash a rom on it?
as much as i want to be able to flash roms, at this stage i'm unwilling to compromise my warranty until it's 100% working and doesn't need to be sent back again!
(also happy to run any tests or copy any files if anyone is interested in anything from the test rom)
FARQ said:
i've had my prime for a couple of months now, although really i've only personally had it for a number of weeks, as it's been returned twice for repair... for some stupid reason they won't replace units here in Australia, only repair (even though mine was cactus out of the box and therefore clearly DOA!)
so i've been lucky enough to have working wifi, no crashes/reboots, etc... but had a dead pixel (first time sent back) and issues with the keyboard/dock not working (second time sent back)
just received it back after they fixed the keyboard/dock (and left some hefty scratches on the tablet and dock, not impressed at all!), and from what i can gather it seems they've left some sort of test rom on it?
OPEN_epad-eng 3.2.1 HTK7 OPEN_epad-8.8.0.119.1-20111222 test-keys
has a number of test tools installed, and rooted, but can't do update firmware, as it doesn't find any firmware, i'm assuming because it's OPEN_epad rather than WW_epad
are my only options now to either send it back yet again, or use the unlock tool to flash a rom on it?
as much as i want to be able to flash roms, at this stage i'm unwilling to compromise my warranty until it's 100% working and doesn't need to be sent back again!
(also happy to run any tests or copy any files if anyone is interested in anything from the test rom)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe this thread is of help:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1492887
But it's also not without risks (as mentioned in that thread, updating with custom roms can screw up your device and I have no idea if such a testrom can be updated) so yeah... Seems like sending it back is the only other option (unlocking would be the other, but not an option for you in this case).
FARQ said:
i've had my prime for a couple of months now, although really i've only personally had it for a number of weeks, as it's been returned twice for repair... for some stupid reason they won't replace units here in Australia, only repair (even though mine was cactus out of the box and therefore clearly DOA!)
so i've been lucky enough to have working wifi, no crashes/reboots, etc... but had a dead pixel (first time sent back) and issues with the keyboard/dock not working (second time sent back)
just received it back after they fixed the keyboard/dock (and left some hefty scratches on the tablet and dock, not impressed at all!), and from what i can gather it seems they've left some sort of test rom on it?
OPEN_epad-eng 3.2.1 HTK7 OPEN_epad-8.8.0.119.1-20111222 test-keys
has a number of test tools installed, and rooted, but can't do update firmware, as it doesn't find any firmware, i'm assuming because it's OPEN_epad rather than WW_epad
are my only options now to either send it back yet again, or use the unlock tool to flash a rom on it?
as much as i want to be able to flash roms, at this stage i'm unwilling to compromise my warranty until it's 100% working and doesn't need to be sent back again!
(also happy to run any tests or copy any files if anyone is interested in anything from the test rom)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
Tell them they're dreaming! If the product is faulty etc, you can ask for a refund in Australia, and they must, by law, comply. Give them a taste of this (see below) and they'll get real nervous real fast.
(extracted from ACC web site).
When can you use your rights to repair, replace refund?
Since 1 January 2011, you have the right to ask for a repair, replacement or refund if goods and services you buy are not right.
Goods
You have these rights if goods you buy are:
faulty
unsafe
look unacceptable, and
do not do what they are supposed to do.
In each case this is according to what someone would normally expect for the type and cost of the particular goods.
You also have these rights if goods do not:
fit the purpose
match the description provided
match the sample or demonstration model provided
have the extra qualities or performance that the seller promised before the sale
Oh, I should have noted that a mandatory refund is for a major problem, which I assumed from the description, you had. In addition, if GPS was part of the spec when you bought the product, I imagine you have them on 2 counts:
What is a major problem?
An issue that would have stopped a reasonable person from buying the product or service if they’d known about it.
A product that:
is unsafe
is significantly different from the sample or description
doesn’t do what the business said it would, or what you asked for and can’t be easily fixed.
A service that:
is substantially unfit for its common purpose and can’t be easily fixed within a reasonable time
does not meet the specific purpose you asked for and cannot be easily rectified within a reasonable time
creates an unsafe situation.
FARQ said:
i've had my prime for a couple of months now, although really i've only personally had it for a number of weeks, as it's been returned twice for repair... for some stupid reason they won't replace units here in Australia, only repair (even though mine was cactus out of the box and therefore clearly DOA!)
so i've been lucky enough to have working wifi, no crashes/reboots, etc... but had a dead pixel (first time sent back) and issues with the keyboard/dock not working (second time sent back)
just received it back after they fixed the keyboard/dock (and left some hefty scratches on the tablet and dock, not impressed at all!), and from what i can gather it seems they've left some sort of test rom on it?
OPEN_epad-eng 3.2.1 HTK7 OPEN_epad-8.8.0.119.1-20111222 test-keys
has a number of test tools installed, and rooted, but can't do update firmware, as it doesn't find any firmware, i'm assuming because it's OPEN_epad rather than WW_epad
are my only options now to either send it back yet again, or use the unlock tool to flash a rom on it?
as much as i want to be able to flash roms, at this stage i'm unwilling to compromise my warranty until it's 100% working and doesn't need to be sent back again!
(also happy to run any tests or copy any files if anyone is interested in anything from the test rom)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before you do anything, copy all the test tools and upload them here please. Simply browse to /data/app and /system/app and copy all the apps sd card (storage), then transfer to pc, zip and upload somewhere. Maybe that cpu monitor app is installed. Also, it might be worth speeking to someone like Diamondback to see if he would find system dump useful, might help with rooting or something else in the future.
Sent from my HTC Sensation Z710e using xda premium
You definately ought to do a system dump!
Here's a (very short) description on how to do that : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=21833242&postcount=5
cheers for the bits of advice
Asus support here in .AU has been nothing short of utterly pathetic, very slow and difficult to deal with, no attention to detail (who the f*ck doesn't take care of other peoples property and scratches the hell out of it?!)... aware of my rights with ACCC, and if it comes to it i'll play that card, but don't have the time/energy at the moment for a **** fight with Asus... don't want a refund, just a proper non-scratched working unit, and i'll be on my merry way
pulling /system now, there's nothing in /data/app... anyone got some decent speed space somewhere to upload?
was wondering how they would have gotten this image on the device, i'm assuming they don't unlock it, and just have some way of flashing whatever the hell they like
but is there any easy way to check and see if the bootloader is still locked ?
it's going straight back in the morning, i've demanded a brand new replacement and want it in time for easter long w/end, so if there's anything else anyone wants off it lemme know before then!
FARQ said:
cheers for the bits of advice
pulling /system now, there's nothing in /data/app... anyone got some decent speed space somewhere to upload?
was wondering how they would have gotten this image on the device, i'm assuming they don't unlock it, and just have some way of flashing whatever the hell they like
but is there any easy way to check and see if the bootloader is still locked ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dropbox with the initial 2gb should be enough to store a system dump. (Just PM someone to mirror it otherwise the account will get locked if you post if publicly)
The service centres would have tools to flash it or a firmware image that is properly signed. (nvflash anyone?)
Bootloader locked? I think theres some fastboot command to verify if secure boot is on or off.
But yes, please do give us a dump of that.
FARQ said:
cheers for the bits of advice
Asus support here in .AU has been nothing short of utterly pathetic, very slow and difficult to deal with, no attention to detail (who the f*ck doesn't take care of other peoples property and scratches the hell out of it?!)... aware of my rights with ACCC, and if it comes to it i'll play that card, but don't have the time/energy at the moment for a **** fight with Asus... don't want a refund, just a proper non-scratched working unit, and i'll be on my merry way
pulling /system now, there's nothing in /data/app... anyone got some decent speed space somewhere to upload?
was wondering how they would have gotten this image on the device, i'm assuming they don't unlock it, and just have some way of flashing whatever the hell they like
but is there any easy way to check and see if the bootloader is still locked ?
it's going straight back in the morning, i've demanded a brand new replacement and want it in time for easter long w/end, so if there's anything else anyone wants off it lemme know before then!
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Asus will have the AES encription key so will have unlock and relocked it more than likely.. well they might have not remembered to re-lock if they left the test software on it
Hawke84 said:
Asus will have the AES encription key so will have unlock and relocked it more than likely.. well they might have not remembered to re-lock if they left the test software on it
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Unlikely. Most probably repair centrea just have properly signed diagnostical build, which HQ supplies. Way easier than to unlock and relock every tfp they get.
Sent from my HTC Sensation Z710e using xda premium
lol first thing I thought when I saw this thread was.. someone is going to ask for the files!
FARQ said:
if there's anything else anyone wants off it lemme know before then!
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I would try to get dumps of all mmcblk0 partitions. I can't remember the correct commands off the top of my head, but I'm sure someone could point you in the right direction.
I'm sure all the devs here would appreciate it if you were able to do this.
EDIT: IF YOU READ THIS, GO TO #asus-transformer on freenode irc.
PEOPLE WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH GETTING AS MUCH OF THE INTERESTING GOODIES FROM THAT TABLET AS POSSIBLE.
Yeah it would be great if you can get everything off that tablet and mirrored to the devs and such, it would be such great benefit if we could get apktool to work with Asus's system files.
hmm this software might have some juicy stuff for the devs to play with
i've pulled /system
if anyone wants anything further from it, please let me know with exact instructions in the next half hour before i head in to work and drop it off on my way in... don't have time to jump on irc or anything of the sort sorry
FYI i did a fastboot devices, and nothing came up, so i assume it's still locked
Could you also grab a dump of the first 60MB of the emmc please?
adb shell dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0 of=/sdcard/emmc.dump bs=1024 count=61440
adb pull /sdcard/emmc.dump
Oh and can you pull /data/app if you haven't already?
Cheers.
done... anything else ?
edit: there's nothing in /data/app only /system/app
FARQ said:
done... anything else ?
edit: there's nothing in /data/app only /system/app
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Ah ok, I'm good thanks. Don't want you to be late for work.
all good, i've got half hour up me sleeve, so happy to dump anything else if anyone wants
dump all the secrets to prime and tegra3...lol.
FARQ said:
all good, i've got half hour up me sleeve, so happy to dump anything else if anyone wants
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You should be able to flash a newer firmware version using the rescue mode of the tablet. No bootloader or root required, and from what I can tell it's without any risk...
Check the link in my signature if interested!
So here's my story, I am not entirely new to rooting as I have successfully rooted my Motorola Droid, My Droid X2, My Acer Iconia a500 (twice), My aunts Lg something, and my mothers Kindle Fire.
So a few days ago my Droid X2 started acting up, and would go hours on end sometimes without working.
I was very happy to find out that Verizon would replace it with no hassle as it was less than a year old. I got the replacement yesterday and it's working great... that is until I found out it came stock with 2.3.5 right out of the box.
Now I have always trusted XDA forums and have used them for a long time (although I finally just registered today to ask this)
The only root method I can find is to downgrade to 2.3.4 and then root, then install voodoo root protector, then upgrade.
Now I saw a few things about possibilities of bricking your phone when trying to read those tutorials (I have never had to downgrade before) and I was a bit concerned.
I was mainly wondering, I don't care about loosing data on the phone. I have a backup sd card I can use if I need to format that, and like I said, the phone is new and actually doesnt have a single app I have installed on it yet.
Is there any easy way to go back down to 2.3.4 for my situation? I just got the free phone and don't want to brick it a day later you know?
From what I gather, you can SBF back down to 2.3.4 with no problem. There may be a certain way you have to do it though. I have never been on stock 2.3.5 so I cant tell you from experience. But Everyone says it's possible.
That's my question in a nutshell
Yeah, I read a tutorial about how to do it using RSDlite, which I downloaded to my comp.
Now what I'm cautious about is white file to use. One of the tutorials had one, now while I know a tiny bit about rooting I know NOTHING about flashing it back, I wasn't sure if there was a way that this could screw up my phone, as it seems everything tested is with a phone that had already been rooted, or if there is anything phone specific in that file, or even if it actually is an OTA original (I'd rather not mess around with anything customized right now)
Whatever is the easiest method for getting be back down, I know how to take it from there as I've done it before.
Thanks for the response though!
Excolo said:
Yeah, I read a tutorial about how to do it using RSDlite, which I downloaded to my comp.
Now what I'm cautious about is white file to use. One of the tutorials had one, now while I know a tiny bit about rooting I know NOTHING about flashing it back, I wasn't sure if there was a way that this could screw up my phone, as it seems everything tested is with a phone that had already been rooted, or if there is anything phone specific in that file, or even if it actually is an OTA original (I'd rather not mess around with anything customized right now)
Whatever is the easiest method for getting be back down, I know how to take it from there as I've done it before.
Thanks for the response though!
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So you have never used an SBF file? If you would have used it on your broken Droid X2 when it wasnt acting right, it might have fixed your phone. An SBF file simply wipes everything of your phone (excluding your SD card) and flashes brand new software on it. The SBF files are provided by Motorola so its not like you are using something made by a dev and can break your phone easily. You should be able to use RSD lite to flash the 2.3.4 SBF file and you should be fine. But then again, I have never SBF'd from 2.3.5 to 2.3.4 personally so I would feel bad saying go ahead with no worries and something bad happen. So wait for someone else to respond first.
Thanks!
Thanks for that info!
Also, I doubt that would have fixed my old phone, it seems pretty much like a hardware issue. The screen will display static for hours on end (think like an old tv if you didnt have cable plugged in) I think it's a loose connection somewhere or something. I didn't bother to really troubleshoot it myself though because I was like "lets see if Verizon will give me a new one" and they did, and because they didnt have any "replacements" i got a brand new one, with a brand new battery, so I wasn't going to argue the fact
Anyway, if the file is from Motorola where can I get it? I saw on a verizon forum that they were not allowed to post it there (or is it "from motorola" in the sense it was leaked?)
Thanks for all your help so far, you've been great!
Excolo said:
Thanks for that info!
Also, I doubt that would have fixed my old phone, it seems pretty much like a hardware issue. The screen will display static for hours on end (think like an old tv if you didnt have cable plugged in) I think it's a loose connection somewhere or something. I didn't bother to really troubleshoot it myself though because I was like "lets see if Verizon will give me a new one" and they did, and because they didnt have any "replacements" i got a brand new one, with a brand new battery, so I wasn't going to argue the fact
Anyway, if the file is from Motorola where can I get it? I saw on a verizon forum that they were not allowed to post it there (or is it "from motorola" in the sense it was leaked?)
Thanks for all your help so far, you've been great!
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Yeah, it does sounds like it was a hardware problem. Actually, I never thought about if motorola had a list of sbf files somewhere or if they were just leaked or what. I always downloaded them from threads like these. I just know they are made by motorola. You got me curious now. hmmm...
Duh
forget about my question as to where to get them, just saw the sticky at the front of this forum.
Although, it would be interesting to know if they were officially given out by motorola or leaked
Excolo said:
forget about my question as to where to get them, just saw the sticky at the front of this forum.
Although, it would be interesting to know if they were officially given out by motorola or leaked
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What's An SBF File?
• SBF Is A File Leaked By Motorola That Is The System Image Flashed By RSDLite.
Taken from the Motorola Droid X2 FAQ page here
Excolo said:
So here's my story, I am not entirely new to rooting as I have successfully rooted my Motorola Droid, My Droid X2, My Acer Iconia a500 (twice), My aunts Lg something, and my mothers Kindle Fire.
So a few days ago my Droid X2 started acting up, and would go hours on end sometimes without working.
I was very happy to find out that Verizon would replace it with no hassle as it was less than a year old. I got the replacement yesterday and it's working great... that is until I found out it came stock with 2.3.5 right out of the box.
Now I have always trusted XDA forums and have used them for a long time (although I finally just registered today to ask this)
The only root method I can find is to downgrade to 2.3.4 and then root, then install voodoo root protector, then upgrade.
Now I saw a few things about possibilities of bricking your phone when trying to read those tutorials (I have never had to downgrade before) and I was a bit concerned.
I was mainly wondering, I don't care about loosing data on the phone. I have a backup sd card I can use if I need to format that, and like I said, the phone is new and actually doesnt have a single app I have installed on it yet.
Is there any easy way to go back down to 2.3.4 for my situation? I just got the free phone and don't want to brick it a day later you know?
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bro, you wont have any problems downgrading/sbfing back to 2.3.4, i did it without any problems
i used sbf_flash through linux though idk about RSDLite
First, I apologize if this ins't the right area but it seems like a General question.
I recently bought a Kindle Fire HDX 7" and have had it about a week now. With all the Amazon Bloat and lack of Google apps I need more out of it. I am not a beginner with flashing roms and such, my HTC One is Rooted, CyanogenModed, and has a boot loader, anyways...
I have spent the last couple days reading up on the ways to do it on the HDX 7 and heard many warnings and bricks of this device, but some of the posts are a little bit older. I can't really tell which method of Rooting/Flashing is the safest out of all the different ones. My current OS version is 13.3.2.1. Using the Safestrap looks pretty easy and from what I understand is that even if you do brick it you can recover the original?
My question is... Is it any safer to flash a Rom lately (due to the updating problems?), and how safe is just rooting it for the time being? Also, what method/tools would you suggest to use? I don't like the FireOS and would like to get it close the a standard Android and/or CyanogenMod.
Thanks for your time.
well
Eclipsys said:
First, I apologize if this ins't the right area but it seems like a General question.
I recently bought a Kindle Fire HDX 7" and have had it about a week now. With all the Amazon Bloat and lack of Google apps I need more out of it. I am not a beginner with flashing roms and such, my HTC One is Rooted, CyanogenModed, and has a boot loader, anyways...
I have spent the last couple days reading up on the ways to do it on the HDX 7 and heard many warnings and bricks of this device, but some of the posts are a little bit older. I can't really tell which method of Rooting/Flashing is the safest out of all the different ones. My current OS version is 13.3.2.1. Using the Safestrap looks pretty easy and from what I understand is that even if you do brick it you can recover the original?
My question is... Is it any safer to flash a Rom lately (due to the updating problems?), and how safe is just rooting it for the time being? Also, what method/tools would you suggest to use? I don't like the FireOS and would like to get it close the a standard Android and/or CyanogenMod.
Thanks for your time.
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actually you came just in time and have the right firmware and place go to the development section and start reading we now have a brand new recovery that bypasses the security on our bootloader. I would advise reading reading these threads thoroughly. And your particular software is rootable with the existing utilities we have in the development section also. There has been a lot of development very recent keep in mind they are first version may be buggy but the utility .94 can get you rooted and safe from updates until you can do more research. And get your new recovery in place.
Thanks, by what you said I am guessing the internal workings haven't been figured out quite yet. I will head over to the development boards and see if I can find. Sadly I updated to FireOS 4.5 not knowing that there wasn't software to to roll back for versions above 1X but read that I can call Amazon and have it rolled back so no worries.
nope
Eclipsys said:
Thanks, by what you said I am guessing the internal workings haven't been figured out quite yet. I will head over to the development boards and see if I can find. Sadly I updated to FireOS 4.5 not knowing that there wasn't software to to roll back for versions above 1X but read that I can call Amazon and have it rolled back so no worries.
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they have shut that opportunity down I believe it was probably getting abused. And I believe they were only able to roll back from 4. 1. 1 from now on
jimyv said:
they have shut that opportunity down I believe it was probably getting abused. And I believe they were only able to roll back from 4. 1. 1 from now on
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I actually just got it rolled back, I read that people saying it doesn't happen anymore, but the very nice tech lady down graded me from 4.5.1 to 13.3.2.7. She stayed on the phone until it was completly reset. =) Now I should be able to root it easily with towelroot.
I was being pretty damn charming to her though, lol
I'm sure they don't want to and won't do it most of the time, but I is still 100% possible on their end, it's just wether they want to or not. I had a pretty decent story too, not just 'its slow and buggy'
Eclipsys said:
I actually just got it rolled back, I read that people saying it doesn't happen anymore, but the very nice tech lady down graded me from 4.5.1 to 13.3.2.7. She stayed on the phone until it was completly reset. =) Now I should be able to root it easily with towelroot.
I was being pretty damn charming to her though, lol
I'm sure they don't want to and won't do it most of the time, but I is still 100% possible on their end, it's just wether they want to or not. I had a pretty decent story too, not just 'its slow and buggy'
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after rolling back a couple of them it helps if you say that it was on version 3 then you updated to the latest one then make up some plausable combination of symptoms for example the one i went with is that my device restarts alone every 20 minutes or so and almost no apps work and then proceed to say that you were happy with how it was before it was updated
EDIT:also to note that i have yet to have them refuse me a single time through chat
well
Davengerr said:
after rolling back a couple of them it helps if you say that it was on version 3 then you updated to the latest one then make up some plausable combination of symptoms for example the one i went with is that my device restarts alone every 20 minutes or so and almost no apps work and then proceed to say that you were happy with how it was before it was updated
EDIT:also to note that i have yet to have them refuse me a single time through chat
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I have just been reading about several people that have been rejected and why. There is a rumor that they gave it to their developers only and their technicians will go through your device logs and decide whether or not it is appropriate. Again rumor. I do not need roll back at least so far I have stuck with the old software all year...I just hate having to mess with trying to keep the OTA blocked. I just want them to take me off the ota push servers.