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Alright so, here's where I'm at.
I've been watching the development thread for the prime here on xda, and I am really anxious to start using custom ROMs.
However, I have been waiting patiently for ASUS to do something like they've claimed they are about to- order replacement parts to fix many of the issues (wifi, gps, etc) users are reporting. I've never had strong complaints about the prime in any aspect, but that would be awesome if there was widespread improvement in primes with these replacement parts.
Is there anyone else waiting to unlock their bootloader to see if these parts show significant improvement in the prime? Should I continue waiting or dive right into those tempting ROMs? All opinions are welcome, but I am not interested in hearing anything regarding ipads (or other devices).
h3ckman said:
Alright so, here's where I'm at.
I've been watching the development thread for the prime here on xda, and I am really anxious to start using custom ROMs.
However, I have been waiting patiently for ASUS to do something like they've claimed they are about to- order replacement parts to fix many of the issues (wifi, gps, etc) users are reporting. I've never had strong complaints about the prime in any aspect, but that would be awesome if there was widespread improvement in primes with these replacement parts.
Is there anyone else waiting to unlock their bootloader to see if these parts show significant improvement in the prime? Should I continue waiting or dive right into those tempting ROMs? All opinions are welcome, but I am not interested in hearing anything regarding ipads (or other devices).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you misunderstood the replacement part incident.
It's only for the few unit with Wifi/BT problem and is on a case by case situation, not all Unit will get the fix, and it's not new hardware either.
There is no fix for the GPS, nor will there be replacement, and there is nothing about a new back case or now wifi hardware modification.
"the actual fix is just ensuring that the hardware utilized in current units is performing to tested standards. Basically to ensure this level of compliance we are replacing components within the WiFi subsystem on an as needed basis and then testing the units before shipment."
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1537260
Has anyone said what "tested standards" are? I'm just curious to see if how I perceive my prime is within standards or defective. I ask this because I'm being cautious to unlock and flash custom roms as well. I feel that my wifi is weak at times and I would appreciate a semi-functional gps... I don't intend to use the device for navigation or anything.
honestly, i have voted not to unlock.
Considering the somewhat spotty quality control issues many are finidng and how if you have any issues your on your own after unlocking, i dont think its worth the risk.
If the tablet was a samsung, which i have faith using Odin i can unbrick nearly anything, i'd say have at er no problem, however Asus has had some issues dealing with the GPS fallout, various wifi bluetooth issues, and after opening a prime myself and seeing first hand how simple oversights can cause big issues, no thanks.
At this point the development community does not seem large enough and does not offer enough rewards to risk me losing my manufacturer warrenty.
Perhaps in a few months that will change, but for now im sticking with locked.
Austin Ag06 said:
Has anyone said what "tested standards" are? I'm just curious to see if how I perceive my prime is within standards or defective. I ask this because I'm being cautious to unlock and flash custom roms as well. I feel that my wifi is weak at times and I would appreciate a semi-functional gps... I don't intend to use the device for navigation or anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No idea, but my guess, able to get wifi signal 30 feet from source, and GPS, able to see any Sat = Working
bluewr said:
I think you misunderstood the replacement part incident.
It's only for the few unit with Wifi/BT problem and is on a case by case situation, not all Unit will get the fix, and it's not new hardware either.
There is no fix for the GPS, nor will there be replacement, and there is nothing about a new back case or now wifi hardware modification.
"the actual fix is just ensuring that the hardware utilized in current units is performing to tested standards. Basically to ensure this level of compliance we are replacing components within the WiFi subsystem on an as needed basis and then testing the units before shipment."
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1537260
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, I read Gary's post, and he does say the repair departments will be getting shipments of hardware. Whether or not that hardware is different from what was originally shipped with the primes has not been stated. He only said they were getting parts to fix the problem. My prime does show a significant dropout in wifi when connected to bluetooth, and that is one of the areas ASUS is working to fix. GPS is just a hopeful.
There is also so much variation with each prime, it is difficult to tell whether or not many of them are performing to expected standards.
I have avoided anything that will potentially prevent the RMA process, but will probably unlock, root and load a custom ROM when I've exhausted all the other avenues. Or when the warranty expires, which every comes first.
I've been waiting for all the details to be worked out. Looks like the best case is what Gary is setting up at the repair centers.
I just, today, send my data into the service center for the repair or possible replacement. I use my Prime every day and will actually have to change my work process for every day the unit is gone. I have come dependent on it
I would lean toward not unlocking at this time... giving your Prime more time to display any flaws.
This is from someone who has already unlocked and loaded a very nice custom ROM. I am quite happy with my Prime. I have never even tried wi-fi with bluetooth on, so that could very well be an issue for me. I may get lucky, but, then again, my Prime could start acting up tomorrow, and I would be out of luck.
A custom ROM will make your Prime operate a little more smoothly and faster. But, the Prime is a pretty high-powered machine and runs rather smoothly from the factory and is also quite fast. I do not think the extra speed is worth giving up your warranty so early.
Also, I'm pretty sure that us unlockers will get no help from Asus with future fixes, should they come around. I knew that going in.
Why did I unlock already? Well, I got into the excitement of unlocking and loading a custom ROM ... that kind of stuff is an absolute blast for me. Also, I would not lose much sleep, even if my Prime went belly-up tomorrow. I'd get another device (probably the TF300 when they come out) and move on ... maybe even getting a cheap little $200 tablet to tide me over in the mean time. I'm not normally a huge risk taker, but once in a while, I just have to go for it.
My general advice would be: If you are asking if you should unlock, don't!!!
(P.S.) The following made me laugh (thanks for that):
h3ckman said:
All opinions are welcome, but I am not interested in hearing anything regarding ipads (or other devices).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tedr108 said:
My general advice would be: If you are asking if you should unlock, don't!!!
(P.S.) The following made me laugh (thanks for that):
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Click to collapse
Ha I'm glad I could provide you with a laugh. Some days those can be sparse. A few years back, I unlocked my Nexus One the day i got it and never regretted it for a second. I know it is different with the prime, but I very much enjoy the options that become available after unlocking. I'll probably end up just leaving it since it is (like you said) already pretty darn fast to begin with. And, if I ever need it, I always have the option to overclock this baby to 1.6gHz on performance mode (since root doesn't require unlock).
I am not unlocking the Prime.
At this very moment, stock and custom roms do not differ that much. Running stock is smooth and stable. Custom roms do not offer anything that I must have that is not offered by stock.
My Galaxy S has been running ICS since I forgot when. Stock is still what? 2.3? Not sure and not care. If the prime is in a similar scenario it will be unlocked the second I can.
So, for now, no. I will not unlock the device.
Asus support just told me that they do not provide support for the unlocker. I've been trying to unlock this thing for weeks now, finally decided I'd call Asus about my "an unknown error occurred, possibly a network connection issue" error message and the guy on the phone just told me they can't help me because that utility will void my warranty. I pointed out that warranty is not yet void and in my opinion they still have an obligation to help, but they were impervious to my logic.
wtfdroidlol said:
Asus support just told me that they do not provide support for the unlocker. I've been trying to unlock this thing for weeks now, finally decided I'd call Asus about my "an unknown error occurred, possibly a network connection issue" error message and the guy on the phone just told me they can't help me because that utility will void my warranty. I pointed out that warranty is not yet void and in my opinion they still have an obligation to help, but they were impervious to my logic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"Impervious to my logic" lol sounds like something I would say. Unfortunately MOST people are impervious to logic these days.
Sent from my Axiom MAXX!!
wtfdroidlol said:
Asus support just told me that they do not provide support for the unlocker. I've been trying to unlock this thing for weeks now, finally decided I'd call Asus about my "an unknown error occurred, possibly a network connection issue" error message and the guy on the phone just told me they can't help me because that utility will void my warranty. I pointed out that warranty is not yet void and in my opinion they still have an obligation to help, but they were impervious to my logic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm,
I can understand ASUS in that way. This example came into my mind:
you want to break into a house and couldn't manage that due to the lock pick.
So you ask a policeman: "Please show me how to use this lock pick".
He would say: "No, that's criminal". And you say:"It's not criminal". I didn't break in by now".
It's not exactly the same some somehow similar
They release their own tool, but do not support it.
This doesnt make any sense to me, since device is still locked. Another one to add to the list.
Sent from my i9250
handi1948 said:
Hm,
I can understand ASUS in that way. This example came into my mind:
you want to break into a house and couldn't manage that due to the lock pick.
So you ask a policeman: "Please show me how to use this lock pick".
He would say: "No, that's criminal". And you say:"It's not criminal". I didn't break in by now".
It's not exactly the same some somehow similar
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This analogy might make sense if it was my house, and the police man not only sold me the house without telling me there were no keys, but handed me the lockpicking tools when I complained.
Use someone elses connection, sounds like its a firewall/port issue .. either that or open up all your ports for the TFP in your router (DMZ)
I've tried on at least 4 networks
wtfdroidlol said:
This analogy might make sense if it was my house, and the police man not only sold me the house without telling me there were no keys, but handed me the lockpicking tools when I complained.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm, I think the police was quite fair in THIS case :
"Before you download, install, and use the Unlock Device App you acknowledge and assume complete risk to the quality and performance of this App, including but not limited to the following: once you activate the App you will not be able to recover your ASUS product (“Original Product”) back to original locked conditions..." (from the Asus site)
handi1948 said:
Hm, I think the police was quite fair in THIS case :
"Before you download, install, and use the Unlock Device App you acknowledge and assume complete risk to the quality and performance of this App, including but not limited to the following: once you activate the App you will not be able to recover your ASUS product (“Original Product”) back to original locked conditions..." (from the Asus site)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure what the relevance of your quote is. It mentions before I use it, which I can't because it doesn't work, and then cautions that I can't relock my boot loader, which is irrelevant because I can't, because it doesn't work.
wtfdroidlol said:
This analogy might make sense if it was my house, and the police man not only sold me the house without telling me there were no keys, but handed me the lockpicking tools when I complained.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that's the only way this analogy makes even a bit of sense. I have the same problem and I'm also trying to contact ASUS support.
We need SBK (since, afaik, we already have access to an updated version of nvflash which works with t3) as one way to solve these cases. Probably. Since Asus doesn't seem to be doing anything else to solve it either.
Sent from my i9250
is more easy unlock the ipad . this bis verry strange for a google os device. Afther 4mounths,stil no root. verry easy to brick this tablet and no support for custom roms.
Inviato dal mio Transformer Prime TF201 con Tapatalk 2
valentinrascu said:
is more easy unlock the ipad . this bis verry strange for a google os device. Afther 4mounths,stil no root. verry easy to brick this tablet and no support for custom roms.
Inviato dal mio Transformer Prime TF201 con Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root has been achieved with .28 already.
Sent from my i9250
i've had my asus transformer prime since it was first released.
haven't had any issues or damaged or cracked my screen.
i'm just very careful with my tablet, but i'm worried i might slip and drop my tablet and it seemed as if there aren't any people who were able to fix their prime for a decent price.
so i kept searching on google and ran across this place.
i haven't tried calling them since my prime is fine.
but i just figured i might share my findings and i'd like to hear your feedbacks on them.
i am not related to this place or work for this place, i just found the site. do not ask me questions about them i do not know.
if they happen to be a scam or what nots do not blame me.
BUT!! they do WALK IN REPAIRS if you live in SAN DIEGO.
so if you live in san diego and go an ATP with broken screen, try them out and let us know!
that is all.
thanks
they also seem to fix rooted devices a well. so try them if you bricked your device!
edit*
forgot the link
http://www.sandiegopchelp.com/services/tablet-repair/asus/transformer-prime-tf201/
hmmm......
" We carry out a range of repair services, including damage and fluid spill repairs. We also perform upgrades of operating system (Android), memory (RAM) and hard drive, data recovery, Wi-Fi network setup, system checks /tune ups and more."
I think I want them to upgrade my Android to Jelly Bean, upgrade my RAM to a Bajillion Jigabytes, and upgrade my nonexistent hard drive to one that exists!
(For the n00bs, that was sarcasm and this company doesn't know what the fark they're talking about)
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2
Lol. It sounds like they just copied the lines from a PC repair page and just search-replaced Windows with Android.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
These are just 'laptop shops'. Normally they carry a number of common LCD's for replacement. They can do tablet LCD's at request.
That said, they are lifesavers when you need a new screen. Happened to me. Got recommended to a place just like you mentioned. Walked in, lappy LCD replaced in 20 odd minutes. It is a good service when you need it.
And that said, they will probably tell you anything to get business, there are load of these places around. Nothing new.
Do they improve Wifi, fix ANR's, fix the GPS or the IO performance? How about the LCD mura?
Hardware repair ………….$99-$149
Software repair/upgrade ….. $99-$199
JTAG specialized unbrick service ….$169-$199 Attempt ……..$119
Liquid Spill Cleanup …… $199-$219 Attempt …… $129
ouch $$
Seems cheaper way than rma still
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
Hello there guys!
I recently played around with my Prime a bit too much and half-briked it or in whatever state it is now... Some ports do not work anymore on my prime, system itself works fine.
I just wanted to ask if those motherboards are legit ones? And with legit I mean that they are not already on the new 4.2.1 bootloader cause I want to use nvFlash.
http://www.ebay.de/itm/Asus-Transfo...0K0AMBA000-69NAZAM19B05-Tested-/181108348472?
What do you think? Or does maybe one of you already have such one?
Well it says they are tested and 100% guaranteed to work. Only way to get answers to your questions is to ask the seller. No one here is going to do that for you
For information I bought a TF201 motherboard to this seller (it take 1 week to receiv the shipment from usa to france)
It's working perfectly, providewith stock rom ICS
I update to JB 4.1.1, unlock device, root following this post http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2038464
I got only problem with the dock not recognize (during the motherboard replacement i broke a part of a connector) =Advise=> do the replacement with caution
Hello everybody, I'm a new user and I have a problem: I wiped all files from bootloader and now TF201 is bricked with Asus logo and APX mode. I read all threads for this problem and RMA seems to be the only one solution, but I want to ask you if buying this motherboard could be a solution to repair my tablet.
Sorry for my english!
Thank you for all answers
If use seller on eBay It cost around 130€ (motherboard and shipment)
If you prefer using Asus support it cost 300€ for the motherboard replacement
Depending if your device is or is not unlock
There's no other solutions at the moment
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
my tablet is unlocked (i unlocked it with Asus app). Can I buy the motherboard and replace it, resolving problem?
It is the solution i chose (bought a motherboard and made replacement) , i was in the same situation stock on Asus logo and only apx available and of course no nvflash file backup
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
montomtom said:
It is the solution i chose (bought a motherboard and made replacement) , i was in the same situation stock on Asus logo and only apx available and of course no nvflash file backup
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your signature gave me a glimmer of hope!
antoniojr86 said:
Your signature gave me a glimmer of hope!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd like to watch a video to understand how difficult is to replace motherboard, but I can't find it on the net. I'd like to watch one 'cause if I see that it's too difficult, I could prefer to spend more but I'll have a sure result with Asus assistence.
UPDATE: Asus assistance asked me more than 200€! So, no assistence... For unlocked devices they replace motherboard directly
Have a look on website below
http://basicuse.net/articles/hardwa...ssembly_procedure_and_how_to_replace_a_camera
you can find all step of the disassembly procedure
montomtom said:
you can find all step of the disassembly procedure
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in a Hamlet-like question: try or not to try replacing the motherboard? I could waste 100€+ without resolving my problems...
I just got my Kindle Fire HDX 7 about a month ago, and it had Fire OS 4.5.5.1. I wanted to unlock the bootloader, so I was stupid enough to try to downgrade the device. So I tried it, and there, it became a paperweight! I know I can open it up and replace the motherboard, but I don't want to open up my Fire HDX. So I went over the forums and found out I can use a factory(fastboot) cable. Is there anyway to unbrick the Fire HDX 7 that is on Fire OS 4.5.5.1?
hammaad5 said:
I just got my Kindle Fire HDX 7 about a month ago, and it had Fire OS 4.5.5.1. I wanted to unlock the bootloader, so I was stupid enough to try to downgrade the device. So I tried it, and there, it became a paperweight! I know I can open it up and replace the motherboard, but I don't want to open up my Fire HDX. So I went over the forums and found out I can use a factory(fastboot) cable. Is there anyway to unbrick the Fire HDX 7 that is on Fire OS 4.5.5.1?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- factory (fastboot) cables are ineffective on this device except in one special case which does not apply to your device
- board/battery replacement is exceptionally difficult on 7" models due to copious use of glue; a cracked screen is the likely outcome
- hard brick is permanent; sorry for your loss
Davey126 said:
- factory (fastboot) cables are ineffective on this device except in one special case which does not apply to your device
- board/battery replacement is exceptionally difficult on 7" models due to copious use of glue; a cracked screen is the likely outcome
- hard brick is permanent; sorry for your loss
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't understand, if I use a Factory cable, won't it force my HDX 7 into fastboot? And from there I can flash the stock rom?
hammaad5 said:
I don't understand, if I use a Factory cable, won't it force my HDX 7 into fastboot? And from there I can flash the stock rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope - Amazon crippled recovery capabilities by: 1) disabling the 'interface' that recognizes factory/fastboot cables; and 2) disabling various fastboot commands with a locked bootloader. Long story short there is no way to flash stock recovery on a locked device that will not boot. Amazon devices in general and HDX models in particular easy to brick and nearly impossible to recover.
Davey126 said:
Nope - Amazon crippled recovery capabilities by: 1) disabling the 'interface' that recognizes factory/fastboot cables; and 2) disabling various fastboot commands with a locked bootloader. Long story short there is no way to flash stock recovery on a locked device that will not boot. Amazon devices in general and HDX models in particular easy to brick and nearly impossible to recover.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then what is that "special case" you mentioned the post before?
hammaad5 said:
Then what is that "special case" you mentioned the post before?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Devices that became inoperable while running FireOS v3.2.6 or lower; does not apply to your device as you were running FireOS v4 with a locked bootloader.
Davey126 said:
Devices that became inoperable while running FireOS v3.2.6 or lower; does not apply to your device as you were running FireOS v4 with a locked bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I recover my device by replacing only motherboard?
hammaad5 said:
Can I recover my device by replacing only motherboard?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, of course
hammaad5 said:
Can I recover my device by replacing only motherboard?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
aaronkatrini said:
yes, of course
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Click to collapse
I believe both mother and daughter boards are required. Others have reported great difficulty disassembling 7" models due to dense packaging and copious use of glue. Cracked screens are common. Also note the condition/preparation of the replacement components plays a large role on whether the device is ultimately recoverable.
Davey126 said:
I believe both mother and daughter boards are required. Others have reported great difficulty disassembling 7" models due to dense packaging and copious use of glue. Cracked screens are common. Also note the condition/preparation of the replacement components plays a large role on whether the device is ultimately recoverable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wouldn't the motherboard and daughterboard be on the same board?
hammaad5 said:
Wouldn't the motherboard and daughterboard be on the same board?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll need to do some homework to determine what is required. Not a lot of information out there. In the end it may be more cost effective to acquire another device.
Davey126 said:
I believe both mother and daughter boards are required. Others have reported great difficulty disassembling 7" models due to dense packaging and copious use of glue. Cracked screens are common. Also note the condition/preparation of the replacement components plays a large role on whether the device is ultimately recoverable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@Davey126, I contacted Amazon, and they said I still have a warranty for this device. Can I send this tablet to them for replacement?
hammaad5 said:
@Davey126, I contacted Amazon, and they said I still have a warranty for this device. Can I send this tablet to them for replacement?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes! This is an excellent resolution to your issue. You will receive a refurbished (not new) replacement that is a one time courtesy exchange. I assumed your warranty has expired as 3rd gen HDX models went out of production last summer.
When the new one arrives be sure to post your intentions. It will likely arrive with FireOS v4 which requires special handling to root and install software (safestrap v4.x) that supports a limited suite of Kitkat based custom roms if that is your desire. Someone will validate your game plan to help avoid another brick.
Davey126 said:
Yes! This is an excellent resolution to your issue. You will receive a refurbished (not new) replacement that is a one time courtesy exchange. I assumed your warranty has expired as 3rd gen HDX models went out of production last summer.
When the new one arrives be sure to post your intentions. It will likely arrive with FireOS v4 which requires special handling to root and install software (safestrap v4.x) that supports a limited suite of Kitkat based custom roms if that is your desire. Someone will validate your game plan to help avoid another brick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to confirm, Can Amazon find out that the device was rooted?
Davey126 said:
Yes! This is an excellent resolution to your issue. You will receive a refurbished (not new) replacement that is a one time courtesy exchange. I assumed your warranty has expired as 3rd gen HDX models went out of production last summer.
When the new one arrives be sure to post your intentions. It will likely arrive with FireOS v4 which requires special handling to root and install software (safestrap v4.x) that supports a limited suite of Kitkat based custom roms if that is your desire. Someone will validate your game plan to help avoid another brick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because I also had safestrap recovery and a custom rom on the Fire HDX 7 before it got Hard Bricked. Can Amazon find that out?
hammaad5 said:
Just to confirm, Can Amazon find out that the device was rooted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't matter - Amazon offers a onetime 'no questions asked' exchange during the warranty period. That said, I would not advertise the fact it was anything other than stock. Just say it refused to turn on following an update.
Davey126 said:
Doesn't matter - Amazon offers a onetime 'no questions asked' exchange during the warranty period. That said, I would not advertise the fact it was anything other that stock. Just say it refused to turn on following an update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok thanks! I'll send the device when I can.
Davey126 said:
I believe both mother and daughter boards are required. Others have reported great difficulty disassembling 7" models due to dense packaging and copious use of glue. Cracked screens are common. Also note the condition/preparation of the replacement components plays a large role on whether the device is ultimately recoverable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, all risk taken into consideration, it can be done. I'm talking from experience, I bought the motherboard from eBay from a seller from the US and had it shipped in Italy. With a friend, looking at the guide from iFixit was able to successfully replace the Motherboard. Still today the tablet is working fine.
The old motherboard, who is perfectly functional as of hardware, but the software-wise was bricked, was given as a gift to a user here in Xda for further development....
Davey126 said:
Yes! This is an excellent resolution to your issue. You will receive a refurbished (not new) replacement that is a one time courtesy exchange. I assumed your warranty has expired as 3rd gen HDX models went out of production last summer.
When the new one arrives be sure to post your intentions. It will likely arrive with FireOS v4 which requires special handling to root and install software (safestrap v4.x) that supports a limited suite of Kitkat based custom roms if that is your desire. Someone will validate your game plan to help avoid another brick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank God that Amazon sent me a replacement tablet! By the way, I sent them a 16 gb tablet and they gave me 32 gb! I think because they ran out of 16 gb replacements. Yes, it still has a locked bootloader, but it's fine for now. ??