[Q] Advice on upgrade from 4.2 (ME7) to 4.4? - Verizon Samsung Galaxy S 4

I have been reading around here a few hours, but I haven't found exactly what I'm looking for, So I thought I'd ask.
Here is what I have:
Safestrap version:3.65
Baseband Version: I545VRUAME
Kernel: 3.4.0-690088
Build Number: JDQ39.I545VUAME7
Rooted Stock Rom running 4.2.2
I am looking to update to 4.4.x, and be rooted.
Preferable to have CM, but not necessary.
Do need root, for a few of the tweaks/apps I use every day.
I have seen that there are odin files to upgrade to 4.4.3 directly, but it seems cloudy whether or not it can actually be rooted after that.
I like the way safe strap has rom slots, but due to the large size of the roms, I could really only use one at a time any way. (what I am saying is that SS isn't necessary, just what I already know.)
Thank you, so much in advance.

aron7676 said:
I have been reading around here a few hours, but I haven't found exactly what I'm looking for, So I thought I'd ask.
Here is what I have:
Safestrap version:3.65
Baseband Version: I545VRUAME
Kernel: 3.4.0-690088
Build Number: JDQ39.I545VUAME7
Rooted Stock Rom running 4.2.2
I am looking to update to 4.4.x, and be rooted.
Preferable to have CM, but not necessary.
Do need root, for a few of the tweaks/apps I use every day.
I have seen that there are odin files to upgrade to 4.4.3 directly, but it seems cloudy whether or not it can actually be rooted after that.
I like the way safe strap has rom slots, but due to the large size of the roms, I could really only use one at a time any way. (what I am saying is that SS isn't necessary, just what I already know.)
Thank you, so much in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to read the stickie in the general forum before you brick your phone... Not sure how you missed it.
sent via safestrap 3.72 and echo v25.1! !

Well I followed the instructions in this post (which was stickied) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2720163
and now all I am getting is "System software not authorized by Verizon Wireless has been found on your phone. Please turn off your phone and go to the nearest Verizon Wireless store for help. "
Tried rebooting into download mode, and into recovery, neither would come up.
Anyone have some advice?
I would post in the forum I linked but I dont have enough posts under my belt to post in that category.
Oh, and in the top left side of the screen in red letters I see Secure Fail: kernel
Aaron

Got back into download mode.
Trying to flash I545VRUFNC5-AIO-incl-modem-hlos-nobootloaders-gogolie.tar again in the AP slot in odin.

Failed again.
Same Results as listed above.
now downloading the "The Complete Package - Absolutely everything you'll need in one .rar file."

Help upgrading from ME7 to NC5
I have the same problem as Aaron, Want to get to Rooted NC5
Can anyone let me to right post, Info etc........
I have been looking now for 3 Days Brick my phone 3 times :crying:
Thanks

To root on nc5, Google towelroot and install it. Open the app and just click make it rain to root

I need to Get to NC5, I'm Stuck on ME7..... I could take the OTA update, is this what You"all recommend ?
Everything I trey I get Bricked, I have to odin the ME7 Tar to un-brick

Capaints said:
I need to Get to NC5, I'm Stuck on ME7..... I could take the OTA update, is this what You"all recommend ?
Everything I trey I get Bricked, I have to odin the ME7 Tar to un-brick
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't use OTA unless the phone is totally stock. You can upgrade by odin-flashing the no-wipe or full-wipe NC5 tar files that are in their own thread in the Android Development section

joshm.1219 said:
You can't use OTA unless the phone is totally stock. You can upgrade by odin-flashing the no-wipe or full-wipe NC5 tar files that are in their own thread in the Android Development section
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right now I'm completely Stock " odin ME7 full wipe tar" I have tried to odin to NC5 But No Luck, gets Bricked, have tried a few different files....
maybe You know a NC5 Full wipe or ??? I can odin to ?
I watched a couple YouTube videos on the Upgrade to Rooted NC5 with Super SU and still No Luck......
Need Help, Take the OTA update ? Thx

Capaints said:
Right now I'm completely Stock " odin ME7 full wipe tar" I have tried to odin to NC5 But No Luck, gets Bricked, have tried a few different files....
maybe You know a NC5 Full wipe or ??? I can odin to ?
I watched a couple YouTube videos on the Upgrade to Rooted NC5 with Super SU and still No Luck......
Need Help, Take the OTA update ? Thx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2735172
Use this full wipe file and follow Surge's instructions. If you're using Odin 3.10 and having trouble, try rolling back to 3.09

joshm.1219 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2735172
Use this full wipe file and follow Surge's instructions. If you're using Odin 3.10 and having trouble, try rolling back to 3.09
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank You Joshm, that did it ! First try and Now on NC5
Now I need to Root it and load Safe Strap :good:

Capaints said:
Thank You Joshm, that did it ! First try and Now on NC5
Now I need to Root it and load Safe Strap :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok I just bought an S4 that is on ME7 and is Bone Stock. I need to get it to NC5 as well.
Can I use the Full Wipe File to get me to where I need to be? Just Want to do this the safe way.
---------- Post added at 01:54 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:54 PM ----------
Ok I got impatient and tried this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2735172
as was suggested up above. Luckily it worked first time out of the box and had Zero issues.
Thanks Guys!

Related

[Q] Stuck cannot get past Download mode

Hi,
I recently J Tagged my galaxy S4 Verizon and it came back to me with these specs:
ME7 stock Rooted Rom
Android 4.2.2
Base band
I545VRUAME7
Safe Strap 3.64 TWPR v 2.6.3.1
Hyperdrive ROM ver 10
I tried to use ODIN to re-flash to stock ROM VRUAMDK_Nowipe_tar_md5. So that I may be able to update to the new Hyperdriver ROM and it didn't turn out as planned.
HERE IS WHAT I DID:
I just turned off the phone.
Installed Samsung drivers on PC
Down loaded the TAR file loaded it in to ODIN and hit PDA and let it do its thing.
I've tried this several times and every times it ends in a FAIL.
I can put the phone into download mode but that it nothing past that.
Some times I get the message to connect it to KIES as it need missing files. I did that too and KIES takes forever to search for the S4 and cannot find it.
The drivers are installed the PC recognizes the phone. But KIES does not.
The guy who J tagged it said that he froze the system apk SDM 1.0 to stop OTA.
Does any one know how to help me get out of this predicament? I would really appreciate the help and guidance.
Thanks in advance!
radiskull1973 said:
Hi,
I recently J Tagged my galaxy S4 Verizon and it came back to me with these specs:
ME7 stock Rooted Rom
Android 4.2.2
Base band
I545VRUAME7
Safe Strap 3.64 TWPR v 2.6.3.1
Hyperdrive ROM ver 10
I tried to use ODIN to re-flash to stock ROM VRUAMDK_Nowipe_tar_md5. So that I may be able to update to the new Hyperdriver ROM and it didn't turn out as planned.
HERE IS WHAT I DID:
I just turned off the phone.
Installed Samsung drivers on PC
Down loaded the TAR file loaded it in to ODIN and hit PDA and let it do its thing.
I've tried this several times and every times it ends in a FAIL.
I can put the phone into download mode but that it nothing past that.
Some times I get the message to connect it to KIES as it need missing files. I did that too and KIES takes forever to search for the S4 and cannot find it.
The drivers are installed the PC recognizes the phone. But KIES does not.
The guy who J tagged it said that he froze the system apk SDM 1.0 to stop OTA.
Does any one know how to help me get out of this predicament? I would really appreciate the help and guidance.
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't revert to older firmware. It's been posted over and over. If you were on ME7 then you have to get a ME7 Tar file and use Odin to flash that. After that, if you want Hyperdrive RLS 12, you would have to update to MJ7 (or MK2), then install Safestrap 3.70.
You have a lot of reading to do. I suggest you take your time and do your research.
Sent from my NCC 1701 Using Tapatalk 4
ME7 TAR
riker147 said:
You can't revert to older firmware. It's been posted over and over. If you were on ME7 then you have to get a ME7 Tar file and use Odin to flash that. After that, if you want Hyperdrive RLS 12, you would have to update to MJ7 (or MK2), then install Safestrap 3.70.
You have a lot of reading to do. I suggest you take your time and do your research.
Sent from my NCC 1701 Using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey thanks for the reply, you're right I should have done some more reading. I managed to start the phone but it's running real sluggish. I've done several searches for a ME7 TAR file to use with ODIN but I can't fine any thing. You happen to know of a link that could help me out. Appreciate it.
Sorry for the bother!
radiskull1973 said:
Hey thanks for the reply, you're right I should have done some more reading. I managed to start the phone but it's running real sluggish. I've done several searches for a ME7 TAR file to use with ODIN but I can't fine any thing. You happen to know of a link that could help me out. Appreciate it.
Sorry for the bother!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Quick search found this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2301259. Take your time and read everything before you jump in. Good luck.
Should I OTA now??
riker147 said:
Quick search found this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2301259. Take your time and read everything before you jump in. Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks so much for the help and the links they really saved the day. I managed to follow instruction closely and installed stock ME7 through ODIN and rooted the phone.
Should I go ahead and do a OTA update or will lock me down and keep me from installing custom ROM?
radiskull1973 said:
Thanks so much for the help and the links they really saved the day. I managed to follow instruction closely and installed stock ME7 through ODIN and rooted the phone.
Should I go ahead and do a OTA update or will lock me down and keep me from installing custom ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can currently root any of the I545 versions, so updating is not prohibited. You'll need to decide if it's worthwhile.
None of the versions later than MDK will allow you to install a custom recovery. Also, Custom ROMs are limited and installed using Safestrap, only Touchwiz compatible. No AOSP or CM.
What exactly does j-tag do on an S4?
J Tag
Schoat333 said:
What exactly does j-tag do on an S4?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just going to repeat things like a parrot because I'm new to all of this. I flashed the wrong ROM, meaning ROM meant for another model other than my phone which is a SCH-I545. That ruins the EMMC chip that has all the booting up information. At this point the phone is HARD BRICKED. In J TAG they use a certain device after disassembling the phone and re install necessary software to bring it back to life and save the phone, so you don't have to throw it away. Man folks of Ebay offer this service for around $30 not a bad deal. Made my phone run pretty good as new.

How to get ROOT For NC5 from NC5 OTA!

I could be entirely wrong, but after some conversation with @klabit87, I think we've found a useful little tidbit for people wanting to have root for NC5 and who have either just purchased a S4 with NC5, or have accidentally or intentionally taken NC5 OTA update and then find they'd like to have root on NC5. You just have to downgrade your bootloader from NC5 to NC2! From there, follow @Surge1223's instructions for downgrading from NC2 to MK2, get MK2 and root with saferoot, and then use @Surge1223's instructions for upgrading to NC5 with Root.
I apologize to the moderators and devs if I'm entirely out of line in posting this, and won't be offended if this thread is locked or deleted.
I think you lost me
It is my impression that NC5 OTA can downgrade to MK2 without needing root access via Odin.
From there root MK2 and move up the process to prerooted NC5.
I'm pretty sure on that. Anybody can downgrade via surge's method, rooted/unrooted.
klabit87 said:
I think you lost me
It is my impression that NC5 OTA can downgrade to MK2 without needing root access via Odin.
From there root MK2 and move up the process to prerooted NC5.
I'm pretty sure on that. Anybody can downgrade via surge's method, rooted/unrooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct!
You had me excited there was a new exploit......
trying this now on my NC5, thanks again! will report back
Video please. and i didnt think you could odin back using one of the full tars.
Anyone have sucess, if so please share your steps.
joshuabg said:
Video please. and i didnt think you could odin back using one of the full tars.
Anyone have sucess, if so please share your steps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I've read @Surge1223 thread correctly, the tars are modified with different bits removed.
OK I am new to the android world and also to rooting, Ai was thinking about it before I took the update so? Is it possible to still root with the new NC5 build or are we still waiting ? If it's possible can anyone point me I. The right direction, to read up on ?
Does this require the wifi fix after reupgrading to rooted nc5? Thanks for sharing!
How to down grade
How does one go about downgrading, is there a thread somewhere I can look at?
That's what I asked.. guess I'll just wait till one comes available.
NC5
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868 for downgrading to MK2 and upgrading back to NC5 with root.
i took the OTA update to NC5 and followed this thread and it worked great. running 4.4.2 NC5 with root now. didnt have to do anything after for wifi. only thing is when youre downgrading theres 3 files to flash and i never let my phone try to boot (it says after step 2 your phone should boot but mine didnt [could be because i was impatient?]) i flashed the file, let it start rebooting, pull the battery, go back to odin, flash the next file, repeat until youre done flashing then let your phone boot all the way.
MmmMonster said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868 for downgrading to MK2 and upgrading back to NC5 with root.
i took the OTA update to NC5 and followed this thread and it worked great. running 4.4.2 NC5 with root now. didnt have to do anything after for wifi. only thing is when youre downgrading theres 3 files to flash and i never let my phone try to boot (it says after step 2 your phone should boot but mine didnt [could be because i was impatient?]) i flashed the file, let it start rebooting, pull the battery, go back to odin, flash the next file, repeat until youre done flashing then let your phone boot all the way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought we wernt able to downgrade from nc5?
Can someone confirm this is correct before I attempt this on my phone
tmushy said:
I thought we wernt able to downgrade from nc5?
Can someone confirm this is correct before I attempt this on my phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I haven't heard of others trying it this way. I've heard of people downgrading to NC2 and then downgrading to MK2 but i couldnt find anything on downgrading to NC2. I tried it and it worked for me but there could be nuances.
tmushy said:
I thought we wernt able to downgrade from nc5?
Can someone confirm this is correct before I attempt this on my phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We are able to downgrade from NC5 to MK2. Find Surges thread in the Dev section and follow the steps... Its quite easy too.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
We really need a video on how to root NC5 OTA by downgrading to clear this up. Anybody willing to make one?
joshuabg said:
We really need a video on how to root NC5 OTA by downgrading to clear this up. Anybody willing to make one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not a video but everyone is following one of these two threads:
Surge1223's - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868
gigilie's - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2720163
Not to be an ass but why do you need a video? If you can't follow typed instructions its my opinion you have no business doing this stuff in the first place.
Sorry for the dumb question, but are we able to install safe strap once we've downgraded to mk2? Or are we stuck with the nc5 bootloader?
tmillz said:
Sorry for the dumb question, but are we able to install safe strap once we've downgraded to mk2? Or are we stuck with the nc5 bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are stuck on nc5 bootloader bit once rooted safestrap should work. I can't say 100% some I'm on nc2 myself
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium HD app

[SUCCESS] Odin backflash to MJ9 from updated ND3 to regain root

I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Confirmed. Just ODIN'd back to MJ3 from the VRUAND3 update and regained root using Saferoot.
seriously whaaat can u post the needed files and step by step directions ive never used odin before
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Free mobile app
mrraya said:
seriously whaaat can u post the needed files and step by step directions ive never used odin before
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2024207&nocache=1
Be sure to thank @droidstyle for taking the time to make this guide
Another confirmation, Odin'd back to MJ9 from ND3 then used saferoot to root.
Can also confirm working for me and rooted also. Does anyone know how we can stop the OTA notification or do we just ignore it?
stop the ota notification note 2
Ostate24 said:
Can also confirm working for me and rooted also. Does anyone know how we can stop the OTA notification or do we just ignore it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Change
FWupgrade.apk to FWupgrade.bak
SDM.apk to SDM.bak
I am not allow to post a link at this time so do a search on "stop the ota notification note 2"
Regain root, ND3 question,Correct MJ9, ODIN7
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I have been looking for except it says to "REGAIN" root.. I have never had it (ROOT) to start with.. So will this still work?
and
where do I get the correct MJ9 since I did not get it off my phone before I lost it.?? or am I ODIN back to out of the box state which is VRALJB?
Odin 7 or Odin 9
I have read ODIN7 ? but Odin9 is newest as far as I can tell...want to double check.
thanks so much!!!!
mrraya said:
seriously whaaat can u post the needed files and step by step directions ive never used odin before
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thebat1 said:
This is what I have been looking for except it says to "REGAIN" root.. I have never had it (ROOT) to start with.. So will this still work?
and
where do I get the correct MJ9 since I did not get it off my phone before I lost it.?? or am I ODIN back to out of the box state which is VRALJB?
Odin 7 or Odin 9
I have read ODIN7 ? but Odin9 is newest as far as I can tell...want to double check.
thanks so much!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thebat1, since I am assuming you are on bootlocked ND3 from your screenshot, you will mess up/brick your phone trying to flash VRALJB. You can only go back to MJ9 at this point. The thread I used which is the same posted by iooooooc -- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...4207&nocache=1 says "4.1.1 VRALJB- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2043636 (Unless you purchased your device within the first month of release and never took the OTA update, DO NOT use this)".
I am pretty sure it doesn't matter if you rooted under MJ9 or not. I was able to Odin without root and I wouldn't see why not being rooted when on MJ9 would not enable you to use Odin (since the whole point of Odin is to flash Samsung phones). I'd make a Helium backup just in case though.
You can read the thread I linked and posted by iooooooc to find out how to reflash. It's the same one I used. It has links to Odin and the MJ9 firmware (look for "VRUEMJ9 4.3" with the warning "ONLY USE THIS IF YOU TOOK THE 4.3 OTA!!") and the PIT file you'll need.
You can also read about and get links to all flavors of Odin (you need v3.07 for the VZ Note II) here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/gal...08-2013-odin-3-09-odin-1-85-versions-t2189539
Finally, to root, here's the main thread for Saferoot: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2565758
Everything I read is pretty straightforward.
I also haven't received any notification to upgrade back even though I haven't used the .bak renaming method which is interesting.
Worked great!!!! Thanks for the links guys!!!
Worked Here Too!
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I decided to bite-the-bullet after reading your post, and all I had to do was re-root as well. All said and done it took me 30 minutes tops to have my phone back. I also used Kingo last time, but after ND3, the version of Kingo I used to root MJ9 didn't recognize the phone and the latest version was so full of dire warnings I immediately aborted.
Thanks guys!
dbalman said:
I decided to bite-the-bullet after reading your post, and all I had to do was re-root as well. All said and done it took me 30 minutes tops to have my phone back. I also used Kingo last time, but after ND3, the version of Kingo I used to root MJ9 didn't recognize the phone and the latest version was so full of dire warnings I immediately aborted.
Thanks guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just received a replacement for my broken Note 2, which I previously had rooted with N3bula. To root my old phone, given it came with 4.1, I just had to Odin the MJ9 files, and then flash N3bula with TWRP . When I got my replacement, it updated to ND3 before I realized what was going on. Does anyone know what files I actually need to flash to get back to MJ9 from ND3? I found a file called I605VRUEMJ9.tar on one of the links posted recently. Since the actual ROM on the phone is the stock 4.3 rom, I assume I don't need to worry about system.img. I don't know about boot.img, cache.img, recovery.img, sboot.bin. I am confident I should flash tz.img, modem.bin, hidden.img.
Thanks!
---------- Post added at 05:51 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:21 PM ----------
gee1000 said:
I just wanted to confirm that you can Odin back to MJ9 4.3 from the newest ND3 4.3 to regain root. This is for 4.3 bootlocked GN2s ONLY. It was quite painless actually, all my data was as it was before. I backed up to the internal memory using Helium just in case (since I lost root), but I was able use saferoot without issue and am now back to rooted.
I had used Kingo before to root, so I am actually glad to use saferoot this time since I am planning to install SafeStrap and flash N3BULA over stock soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a particular reason you wish to use safestrap rather than continuing to use Kingo? Is Kingo not working?
Thx!!
nbock01 said:
Worked great!!!! Thanks for the links guys!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thebat1, since I am assuming you are on bootlocked ND3 from your screenshot, you will mess up/brick your phone trying to flash VRALJB. You can only go back to MJ9 at this point. The thread I used which is the same posted by iooooooc -- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...4207&nocache=1 says "4.1.1 VRALJB- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2043636 (Unless you purchased your device within the first month of release and never took the OTA update, DO NOT use this)".
Neither of those links are good.
Thanks!!
@Skilover
If you go to Droidstyle's guide here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=34891181 , and then go to section 1b of the guide, you can revert back to MJ9 by following the guide's instructions. You'll want to use the stock file for (VRUEMJ9 4.3) if you're wanting to revert back from ND3.
After you get back to MJ9, you can get root access with saferoot..... Here's the link to saferoot-- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...php?p=48392009
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Amazing..WTG, XDA!
New user here. Been reading a bunch of posts lately as I finally got around to trying to root my SCH-1605, which I have through VZW. For a long time, my big concern was interference on the VZW side. Finally, warranties expired and the urge peaked... just in time for the ND3 OTA update. I tried a couple of methods I found - no success. Finally stumbled on some threads that basically said - ND3 = Out of Luck.
Then I found this post.. :victory:
Truly awesome. Worked like a charm. Looking up good info on locking down the OTA pushes next.
My observations of the differences between my previous attempts and what was missing:
My first attempts:
I neglected to include the 16GB PIT file referenced in the links above (** Note: a few guides I popped across mentioned making sure that only "Auto Reboot" and "F. Reset Time" are checked. When you include the PIT file, it will auto-check "Re-Partition". I left this checked, and it worked like a charm. Can't speak as to the offset of UNchecking this, as - like I said - I left it checked)
I used a different .md5 file that would flag as a fail despite my efforts (I was using a CF autoroot md5). I'm fairly certain this failed due to the OTA update, though it may have been the lack of a PIT file. If someone could provide some more info there, I'm totally open to listen!
Bottom line - my experience was pretty painless after doing adequate research. Thanks a ton! :highfive:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I also came across some info stating that the downgrade to the MJ firmware might flag the KNOX (I believe?) or a similar issue. Anyone run across any of those issues using these methods? If someone has a quick link to how I could check this for myself, I'd be very appreciative.
@Tangescence
Glad to hear you had success with rooting . This link should help you check on your knox counter status:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=48758233&highlight=odin#post48758233
If "Knox Warranty Void" is at zero, you didn't trip the counter.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Knox warranty void: 0
Confirmed. The flashback left KNOX WARRANTY VOID: 0
Lists as Samsung Official Binary with a System Status of Custom.
Looks good!
I know this is a bit of a side tangent, but safestrap should work with MJ9 and saferoot to allow custom ROMs despite the locked bootloader - right?
Again, many thanks to the community!
Right, safestrap was designed to be used for people with the locked bootloader on a rooted MJ9. Here is the safestrap thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=51616723
I don't know a lot about safestrap, but I believe the ROM slots are not working yet so you'll have to install a custom Rom over the stock ROM if you want to use it. You'll have to do more research to make sure you know how to use it if you want to give it a go.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
mattnmag said:
Right, safestrap was designed to be used for people with the locked bootloader on a rooted MJ9. Here is the safestrap thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=51616723
I don't know a lot about safestrap, but I believe the ROM slots are not working yet so you'll have to install a custom Rom over the stock ROM if you want to use it. You'll have to do more research to make sure you know how to use it if you want to give it a go.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome - I'll be researching it tonight and tomorrow. Will post to the safestrap thread with my results and probably a heads up here to redirect. Again, tons of thanks!
Confirmed working
My Verizon Note 2 broke so under warranty I got a replacement device with the latest VRUAND3 build installed. It literally drove me nuts because I was so used to having the advantage of a rooted device with the bootloader unlocked. After doing some research, I came across the information on this thread and it helped me with having at least root access which allows me to take advantage of my Titanium Backup and other apps tailored to rooted devices.
Thank you very much for this post. I hope the devs will one up on Verizon and give the community the ability to have a unlocked bootloader soon. I like the connection speed and coverage with Verizon but their method of controlling how their customers use their devices is just annoying. I paid good money for this phone Verizon! I'm going to do what I wish to do with it to make it unique and personal to me. They just don't seem to understand that. Once again... Thanks. ROOT 4TW!
gee1000 said:
thebat1, since I am assuming you are on bootlocked ND3 from your screenshot, you will mess up/brick your phone trying to flash VRALJB. You can only go back to MJ9 at this point. The thread I used which is the same posted by iooooooc -- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...4207&nocache=1 says "4.1.1 VRALJB- http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2043636 (Unless you purchased your device within the first month of release and never took the OTA update, DO NOT use this)".
I am pretty sure it doesn't matter if you rooted under MJ9 or not. I was able to Odin without root and I wouldn't see why not being rooted when on MJ9 would not enable you to use Odin (since the whole point of Odin is to flash Samsung phones). I'd make a Helium backup just in case though.
You can read the thread I linked and posted by iooooooc to find out how to reflash. It's the same one I used. It has links to Odin and the MJ9 firmware (look for "VRUEMJ9 4.3" with the warning "ONLY USE THIS IF YOU TOOK THE 4.3 OTA!!") and the PIT file you'll need.
You can also read about and get links to all flavors of Odin (you need v3.07 for the VZ Note II) here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/gal...08-2013-odin-3-09-odin-1-85-versions-t2189539
Finally, to root, here's the main thread for Saferoot: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2565758
Everything I read is pretty straightforward.
I also haven't received any notification to upgrade back even though I haven't used the .bak renaming method which is interesting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

SCH-I545L Upgrade MK4 to NC5 and Keep Root

Disclaimer: You own the responsibility for choosing to take this route versus the Factory OTA. If it breaks, you own both pieces.
This process uses an unsupported Safestrap. Issues with that program should NOT be reported to Hashcode.
If something goes wrong, you need to be sure that you have a way to recover. Back up first.
The SCH-I545L is a variant of the Verizon Galaxy S4 that's used for several carriers - for example, Bluegrass Cellular, Cellcom, Appalachian Wireless, and others. The "L" variant isn't compatible with kernels and bootloaders designed for the stock SCH-I545 so it needs different treatment.
This method allows you to upgrade from MK4 to the official NC5 root and retain root in the process. It's exactly the same process as the one introduced by @muniz_ri for the I545, found here.
Without his work, this would not have been possible.
Thanks also to @evilryry for his help with pulling the files together and with testing this upgrade.
This is a copy of the MK4-to-NC5 OTA hammered into shape to not flash the NC5 bootloader, and install SuperSU. When you're done, it's a stock, rooted NC5.
This will not upgrade the bootloader to NC5, which means that if anything goes wrong you can flash back to stock MK4 to recover.
However, back up your phone in Safestrap before you begin so you have something to revert to.
Steps to do this:
You must first ensure that your MK4 system is in factory stock condition, with no files modified, no Xposed framework, etc. You must have SuperSU and Safestrap 3.72 installed before starting. See post #2 in this thread for a script that you can run on your phone to ensure that it's pristine.
If your phone is not clean, flashing a no-wipe MK4 ROM image will repair it. Just make sure that you flash Safestrap 3.72 as well. ( Safestrap-JFLTE-3.72-kk-B01.apk)
Download Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip from here,
MD5: c2e6673da0b235d9a3258c0ab46c8a65
Download I545L_Stock_Kernel_and_Modem.tar.md5 from here,
MD5: 693274326ad9d9209be0f0680bcb125e
Put the "Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip" file onto the root of your external SDcard.
Reboot and open Recovery from the Safestrap screen. Do not wipe anything!
Flash the "Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip" file into the stock slot.
When the flash is complete, Press "Home" and reboot into Downloader mode.
Using ODIN, flash " I545L_Stock_Kernel_and_Modem.tar.md5" by putting it into the PDA or AP slot.
The first boot will take a long time as the phone optimizes apps. Be patient.
Before trying this, there's a way to verify that your phone is "stock enough" for the flash to work.
Download the attached script file and push it to the root of your SDcard.
Then, open terminal emulator and type at the prompt:
su -c /storage/extSdCard/mk4-verify.sh
or
su
sh /storage/extSdCard/mk4-verify.sh
You MUST have busybox installed for this to work; otherwise, you'll get a bunch of "/system/bin/sh: cut: not found" errors.
If everything is right, you'll get no output. Otherwise, any tampered files will be listed.
If you choose to install a non-stock ROM image after your NC5 upgrade, you'll need a set of kernel modules to flash. @evilryry has built a ZIP containing those, available from here.
You flash these in recovery after flashing the ROM but before rebooting.
Also note that you should flash SuperSU at the same time
Reserved #3.
Rock on. Thanks k1mu. Hell of a help. I'll be happy to help if anyone has any issues, as I have the phone and have gone through your upgrade process.
Fellow 545L'ers, Just a note to addon if you choose to install a custom rom, on 3.72 safestrap, backup your stock slot, and install over stock slot. remember, flash rom, then flash modules, and very important flash supersu zip. or else you wont have root/safestrap on custom rom and you will have to odin back to 4.3 and start the upgrade process all over again!
@k1mu Nice job!
And please let me know if you have better luck than I have had trying to resolve the safestrap apk force close issue after the upgrade.
If we already have NC5 without root, is there a downgrade option so I can use this method? Sorry, I'm new....
Ampz55 said:
If we already have NC5 without root, is there a downgrade option so I can use this method? Sorry, I'm new....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several threads discuss it...
sent by bajarom v2.2 kitkat
I've found threads on downgrading, including Surge's here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868
but I figured downgrading using this method for the regular I545 would not work correctly.
Well first of all I'm not a developer but I consider myself decently knowledgeable. So, Not 100% sure but I believe that was to downgrade kitkat to jb with the jb bootloader intact in case you don't like kitkat or need to restart the whole process. I don't think you can get back to the jb bootloader once you upgrade it to kitkat. The way this process works is by updating the system and stuff but not the bootloader, leaving it at mk2 or mk4 in the 545L. So you can go back to the 4.3 and start again if you mess up. But the bootloader no, I think it's the same principle as not being able to Odin back to mdk because the bootloader updates. You can't downgrade it.
Have a screenshot showing my bootloader version (4.3) with kitkat baseband running hyperdrive 16.1
So forgive me if I'm wrong, but I believe if you take the ota or whatever to kitkat you're SOL for this posts process for root atm.
Edit, as with other phones, if anyone with this has upgraded via ota to kitkat you should be able to use @geohot "towelroot" method. Be sure to thank him too!
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Free mobile app
Where can one find a No Wipe MK4 ROM?
Rom? No. Odin flash yes. It's a few pages back in the other 545L thread, also on sammobile site. You'll see me linking it to someone else and the other guy who caught the download. You download it and extract the file, put in odin ap slot and flash. You are better off though if you backup and factory reset beforehand. Also, you could just use kies 3 to update with then use towelroot then install supersu from play store.
Remember at some point on stock rom backup your apn using apn backup and restore.
If custom rom is desired: From then if you choose to use safestrap download "selinux mode changer" app in play store change to permissive. Then download the 3.72 safestrap linked in op, and flash supersu *zip* and then desired rom. Also you will find somewhere in other thread our modules I Dropboxed but if you can't find it (will be 2 or 3 pgs back) I will link again. Feel free to post here or pm if you need any help. FYI, 4.3 mk4 flash we have and kies are no wipe.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 03:11 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:04 AM ----------
kmg90 said:
Where can one find a No Wipe MK4 ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://mega.co.nz/#!HYBVHRQY!AigKnk8oNokcStYZ6GR6l13t1oAa9bQsOHxjEMj1A2U +extract = 4.3 MK4 Odin flash. if you want root, easier option is to just use kies imo. or use this and do an ota. then use towelroot+supersu. you basically follow this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2784138 steps 5-7 use ss method heading.
Hello I was wondering do you know what the mms settings are ? I'm trying to use evolve app. And it won't automatically find the mms settings.
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
blackbeard10 said:
Hello I was wondering do you know what the mms settings are ? I'm trying to use evolve app. And it won't automatically find the mms settings.
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try harvesting from this or the info Dallas posted in other 545L thread.
Sent from my SM-G900V using XDA Free mobile app
When I try to flash this update with Safestrap 3.72 I get an error. I've checked MD5 it's good, I can't flash the original upgrade either. Is there a permission's set wrong somewhere?
XRSTOY1 said:
When I try to flash this update with Safestrap 3.72 I get an error. I've checked MD5 it's good, I can't flash the original upgrade either. Is there a permission's set wrong somewhere?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you on 4.3? You probably have modified system files or something. For this to work you need stock minus supersu and safestrap. Though the easy way to do this now is just to upgrade with kies and use towelroot. Just plug phone up and use kies. or if you must do it the harder way..
download https://mega.co.nz/#!HYBVHRQY!AigKnk...bQsOHxjEMj1A2U Should be a zip so extract and flash(4.3 is only flash i know is publicly available, 4.4.2 nc5 might be too tho) then with odin and upgrade with ota or try this process again.
Sent from my Supercharged KT Powered S5
worked for me
decaturbob said:
Several threads discuss it...
sent by bajarom v2.2 kitkat
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had good luck with this one.
GSM/CDMA Unlock for SCH-I545L
Hi,
I just bought a SCH-I545L over ebay and the seller said its Verizon but it turned out to be Other local carrier phone probably Cell Com. Verizon Phones are GSM Factory unlocked and hence I wanted to buy the same but this is not working with International GSM Service providers.
I basically want to use the phone outside of the USA on GSM and CDMA network.
I would like to know anyone here can guide me to a post or thread where there is a GSM/CDMA unlock available for SCH-I545L.
The other problem which I am facing is that I am not able to enable hidden menu. Dont know how to enable the hidden menu. Have already checked out various posts saying to take a backup followed by changing /efs/carrier/HiddenMenu. Change OFF to ON. Did the same but thats not working for me. *#06# doesn't work.
I was however able to root the phone through Towelroot. I am currently on 4.4.2 NC5.
Any guidance in the matter would be highly appreciated.
Thanks

MJ7 to NC5 and Root?

Okay so I have been looking around a bit and want to make sure I fully understand what I am doing before I do it. I am currently on MJ7, rooted, and running Safestrap with Hyperdrive 15. I want to remove Safestrap, upgrade MJ7 to NC5, re-root using Towelroot, and reinstall Safestrap. Can I do this by simply taking the OTA for NC5, or will that not work because I am rooted? Or should I Odin the NC5 firmware by getting it from the Sam Mobile site. Or am I completely out of line and can't do any of that because its not possible to gain root on stock NC5. Any help would be great, I just want to know if my thinking is correct. Thanks.
Just use Odin to upgrade then you can use towelroot, it works for nc5.
joshm.1219 said:
Just use Odin to upgrade then you can use towelroot, it works for nc5.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So there is no need to remove safestrap or rom slot 1 or anything like that? Just Odin the tar.md5 using AP mode? I thought is was best to remove safestrap and all rom slots and then do a wipe before flashing with Odin. Is that total not needed. At least I now understand I can towelroot NC5, that's a good thing. Just want to ensure I am not going to cause any issues with the flash process. Thanks.
robn30 said:
So there is no need to remove safestrap or rom slot 1 or anything like that? Just Odin the tar.md5 using AP mode? I thought is was best to remove safestrap and all rom slots and then do a wipe before flashing with Odin. Is that total not needed. At least I now understand I can towelroot NC5, that's a good thing. Just want to ensure I am not going to cause any issues with the flash process. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that depends on what file you use. If you want to keep your user/app data then you'll have to do all that and flash the no wipe image. Or if you don't care about that data you can use the full wipe image and not worry about any of that.
---------- Post added at 01:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:52 PM ----------
Here's the link for the tar images BTW: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2735172
I find SamMobile's servers to be super slow sometimes.
joshm.1219 said:
Well that depends on what file you use. If you want to keep your user/app data then you'll have to do all that and flash the no wipe image. Or if you don't care about that data you can use the full wipe image and not worry about any of that.
---------- Post added at 01:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:52 PM ----------
Here's the link for the tar images BTW: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2735172
I find SamMobile's servers to be super slow sometimes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I'll do a clean wipe. I have all my apps+data backed up with TiBu so no worries there. Thanks for the download link. I used one from GalaxyS4Root but it didn't have an md5 check so I never feel comfortable with that. I will download the one in the link you provided and go from there. Thanks.
Verizon S4 NC tryng toload safesrap
I have a question along these lines also. I rooted my galaxy s4 with towlroot and installed titanium backup and superuserSU. In may the software was updated automatically to NC by verizon. I was able to load sfestrap, forgot the verson, 7.0 or 7.1 I think but it would not work. It wanted 4 or 5 gigs to do anything. I deleted safestrap and enough programs that there are 6 gigs open now.All I want to do if make a complete backup in case of serious crash.
When I try to open Safestrap 7.1 now to unstall I get a 'parsing error' notice. Dont know what that means.
Thanks for any help.
davekane said:
I have a question along these lines also. I rooted my galaxy s4 with towlroot and installed titanium backup and superuserSU. In may the software was updated automatically to NC by verizon. I was able to load sfestrap, forgot the verson, 7.0 or 7.1 I think but it would not work. It wanted 4 or 5 gigs to do anything. I deleted safestrap and enough programs that there are 6 gigs open now.All I want to do if make a complete backup in case of serious crash.
When I try to open Safestrap 7.1 now to unstall I get a 'parsing error' notice. Dont know what that means.
Thanks for any help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You want version 3.72 found here http://blog.hash-of-codes.com/downloads/safestrap/ The only time SS has ever required that much memory when I have used it is when creating a new ROM slot, which you do not need to do if you are only trying to make a backup. You will also need Busybox from the play store before you are able to install recovery via Safestrap
Sent from my rooted Verizon Galaxy S4 with Hyperdrive ROM using XDA Free Mobile App
davekane said:
I have a question along these lines also. I rooted my galaxy s4 with towlroot and installed titanium backup and superuserSU. In may the software was updated automatically to NC by verizon. I was able to load sfestrap, forgot the verson, 7.0 or 7.1 I think but it would not work. It wanted 4 or 5 gigs to do anything. I deleted safestrap and enough programs that there are 6 gigs open now.All I want to do if make a complete backup in case of serious crash.
When I try to open Safestrap 7.1 now to unstall I get a 'parsing error' notice. Dont know what that means.
Thanks for any help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just completed this process a few moments ago. Everything worked perfectly and I am running Safestrap 3.72, I think you meant to say 3.70 or 3.71. I first downloaded the files mentioned above by josh, then just for good measure I deleted my rom slot 1 and Safestrap from MJ7, then I entered download mode and used Odin to flash the tar.md5 in AP and PIT file in PIT. Once that was complete I Towelrooted, installed SuperSU, and installed Safestrap 3.72. There is a slight trick to installing Safestrap and that is to change SE Linux to Permissive vice Enforcing. Here is a link from RootJunky that should help you https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLHZfPwLkPM. I then went into Safestrap and made a backup of my Stock NC5 ROM. After that I installed Hyperdrive RLS17.1 using Safestrap. There is a trick with that as well. It can only be installed to the stock slot right now, which is normally a no no, but right now it has to be done that way. Everything worked perfectly. I do a lot of research and ask a lot of questions before doing any of this and it has always rewarded me with successful flashes. Hopefully this might help you or others.

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