So first of all my tablet is brand new and not rooted and I don't want to root it.
When I got it I could update it instantly from 3.0.whateverwastheversionatthetime to android 3.2 (build 7.006.01_COM_GEN1) but it won't go from there to 3.2.1 which I hear is available for my location (France) The update tool tells me that my firmware is up to date.
I've tried a factory reset as advised by Acer customer care services but it wouldn't change. Also no matter what I do (empty cache etc.) the market won't update to Google Play Store and I think the two issues are related.
So I have two (or rather 3) questions:
1) Does anyone know a way around to force the update? (I doubt it's possible but hey "l'espoir fait vivre")
2) If not can I install a stock ROM without root and NOT compromise the warranty?
3) Where can I get such a ROM? I have searched here and here but 3.2.1 is not on the first thread and the links on the second thread are broken, plus I want to make sure that the ROM is the proper one for my region and that comes the ICS OTA update I will have no troubles doing the update.
Thanks in advance to those who will answer.
lunaticwraith said:
So I have two (or rather 3) questions:
1) Does anyone know a way around to force the update? (I doubt it's possible but hey "l'espoir fait vivre")
2) If not can I install a stock ROM without root and NOT compromise the warranty?
3) Where can I get such a ROM? I have searched here and here but 3.2.1 is not on the first thread and the links on the second thread are broken, plus I want to make sure that the ROM is the proper one for my region and that comes the ICS OTA update I will have no troubles doing the update.
Thanks in advance to those who will answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) No you cannot force an OTA
2) It depends - others have reported returning there acer with no probs -, i think someone has even returned it rooted and been ok. These things are fairly bulletproof, and really hard to 'brick'. As long as you can read, follow a few steps you shouldnt have any probs. The worse thing you can do is try 2 or 3 different methods all at once because something isnt working right. You're best to pick one and stick with it, if you have probs ask for help in the thread you got the rom from or start your own like you have here
3) The update.zip method from the first link you posted "should" work. Did you "decrypt" the file you downloaded before extracting the update.zip??
You could try timmyDeans v4 method- it will install a stock 3.2.1, it is rooted but you can remove root using the tools he provides. Beware though this will wipe all data so backup anything essential.
The update.zip method will leave your data and settings intact
As always the choice is yours, there are some really excellent custom roms out there - I enjoy the best of both worlds with a backup of my trusty stock 3.2.1, I flash to my hearts content knowing I can always go back to it when the OTA update is out!!! Oh the joys of root priveleges
Thanks for your input, I'll make sure to try all this when I get back from work. I've a few additional questions:
1) If I install a custom rom, will the OTA work from this ROM or, comes the OTA, will I have to restore my actual Stock rom and then proceed with the OTA?
2) I haven't tried the rom on the first link I gave because it is modified and I was searching for the original, pristine, untouched stock ROM for 3.2.1
I've seen such roms around here on xda for 3.2 but none for 3.2.1, if anyone stumbles upon one please let me know.
3) Since I'm still looking for a pristine ROM before trying anything else, I have a friend whose tablet (same brand and model) safely updated to 3.2.1, is there a way to make a rom from is gear? If yes, how to?
4) (related to 3) how can I backup my actual ROM, do I have to be a root user to do so?
THX again!
lunaticwraith said:
Thanks for your input, I'll make sure to try all this when I get back from work. I've a few additional questions:
1) If I install a custom rom, will the OTA work from this ROM or, comes the OTA, will I have to restore my actual Stock rom and then proceed with the OTA?
2) I haven't tried the rom on the first link I gave because it is modified and I was searching for the original, pristine, untouched stock ROM for 3.2.1
I've seen such roms around here on xda for 3.2 but none for 3.2.1, if anyone stumbles upon one please let me know.
3) Since I'm still looking for a pristine ROM before trying anything else, I have a friend whose tablet (same brand and model) safely updated to 3.2.1, is there a way to make a rom from is gear? If yes, how to?
4) (related to 3) how can I backup my actual ROM, do I have to be a root user to do so?
THX again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Typically, most people do not take OTA's when running a custom rom, as basically the OTA installs a totally fresh factory Rom. This is true with the 3.2.1 update, which contains a new bootloader. Usually, this means you lose root, and Recovery, then stuck with downgrading to get these things back.
Timmy Deans root tool supposedly maintains a back door method, which s supposed to protect root, in case of an OTA. No, I haven't used this method, as I run my own 501 roms.
2. Vache has a thread "full package and updates" in the 500 Dev forum. There are several factory Roms and Updates. You'll have to look. Chances are, he may not have the specific Com Gen version you want, but probably one close enough.
3. If your friend can get adb running, you can pull a "system dump", which will dump all files/folders in the system folder. The boot.img would be nice to get, but you can probably use the current one you have. Unfortunately, he already rebooted, so you probably can't get the original full update file. If he's rooted, you can use an app called Rom Factory, to get most of what you need. It's always a good time to become familiar with ADB.
4. Well, you can back it up internally, but it's sort of useless if you can't get into your OS You will need to Root, and install a custom recovery to keep your backup externally.
Moscow Desire said:
2. Vache has a thread "full package and updates" in the 500 Dev forum. There are several factory Roms and Updates. You'll have to look. Chances are, he may not have the specific Com Gen version you want, but probably one close enough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, as Moscow has pointed out, in vaches thread not all roms are listed. My stock roms (1.016.01 and 1.139.04) for instance weren't - so I spent the last hour or two trying the "EUU gen1" listed at the bottom of the page. Well, it actually worked!! It gave me an OTA to 1.139.04 straight away. After that installed i got the 4.010.40 to 3.2 and then the next 2 for 3.2.1 - 7.006.03 and 7.014.15. So its given me the correct updates for my country AND kept my data and settings too.
SO, since you're on a Gen1 Rom this should work for you too, but still no gaurantee you will get the OTA to 3.2.1, no harm in trying though
btw timmydeans method is a gen2 rom so you can rule that out...
---------- Post added at 11:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:16 PM ----------
just came across this link for an update to stock 3.2.1 build 7.014.14 here - orignal thread here but you need cwm to install it....
unless you can make it into an update.zip???
but thats way outta my league,
moscow may be able to suggest something though
Thank you very much, your answers help a lot! Just a few precisions and I'll stop being a pain in the ass!
1. Typically, most people do not take OTA's when running a custom rom, as basically the OTA installs a totally fresh factory Rom. This is true with the 3.2.1 update, which contains a new bootloader. Usually, this means you lose root, and Recovery, then stuck with downgrading to get these things back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
==> @ Moscow, when you say "lose recovery" does it mean I lose the green thingy with gears when I start with volume down and power pressed/ and when I reset to factory settings?
==> @dibb_nz your method is the closest to what I'm looking for, I also hope it will give me the correct updates for my country and since Vache is a fellow countryman it might just be ok.
Anyways thanks again, I'll give a thorough look to all of your solutions and try and do a few things tomorrow afternoon. I'll keep you posted in case this thread interests anyone else.
lunaticwraith said:
==> @ Moscow, when you say "lose recovery" does it mean I lose the green thingy with gears when I start with volume down and power pressed/ and when I reset to factory settings?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, what I meant to say, is when you run a rooted "custom" Rom, and use a "custom" recovery such as RA Recovery or CWM, getting an OTA update, usually wipes that out, and installs the factory bootloader. Your factory recovery....cough cough.... will still be there.
If you are only concerned about stock factory, then don't worry about it. You;re ok. Your factory/stock recovery will be just fine
The reason we root and install custom recoveries, is so we can do 3 primary things.
1. Flash a custom rom
2. Create a complete system backup to our external SD card.
3. Get rid of pre-installed useless apps.
There are other things we can do with it, but these are the primary reasons.
When you have a default factory stock system, the only protection you have, is a factory reset (hope it works), and a couple other methods which require a touch more knowledge.
Anyhow, don't worry about your factory recovery. It's just fine.
1) Just for the sake of knowledge what's the difference between GEN_1 and GEN_2? (and GEN3 and CUS7 and EMEA_TMLP)?
2) @Dibb_nz when you tried with the stock rom from Vache, was it because you encountered the same no FOTA update problem as I did? Or just to try...?
3) Something's still unclear to me after browsing through the forums: If I get an unmodified stock ROM can I flash it with the stock recovery? (so without rooting) Or do I need CWM (so root is needed)
4) What's EUU? (on Vache's thread some roms are listed as EUU)
lunaticwraith said:
1) Just for the sake of knowledge what's the difference between GEN_1 and GEN_2? (and GEN3 and CUS7 and EMEA_TMLP)?
2) @Dibb_nz when you tried with the stock rom from Vache, was it because you encountered the same no FOTA update problem as I did? Or just to try...?
3) Something's still unclear to me after browsing through the forums: If I get an unmodified stock ROM can I flash it with the stock recovery? (so without rooting) Or do I need CWM (so root is needed)
4) What's EUU? (on Vache's thread some roms are listed as EUU)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The Gen's usually signify regional based roms. More specifically language support, sometimes a wifi tweak, and maybe a couple other things. Mostly though, ComGen1's are for the US and probably canada, and offer about 12 different languages. TMPL is for East Europe mostly, with polish as the default language. All roms contain the english language as far as I know.
3. You basically can't install a full rom on an unrooted tablet without CWM or RA Recovery. You will have to run the update (decrypt the file, remove the update.zip)
4. EUU is a pc based install. Plug in the USB, set your tab to APX mode and run the EUU.
If you did the root, and install a custom recovery, then you could run just about all the full roms. Your custom recovery would be overwritten, and you would lose root access. You would have a stock tablet with the version rom you selected.
You can always wait a week or so. Am sure if the update has been pushed to your country, it's just a matter of time till you get it. It's common for the update process for specific roms, to get fully done in 2-3 weeks. It took well over a week just for users in california to mostly start getting updates.
Well the official release date for the ICS FOTA in France is May 3rd, so I'll wait until then but having other options and the know-how to take actions is always a good basis. (plus I'm really not the patient type ^^)
Stupid question but I'm guessing EUU needs root too?
and also APX means rebooting while holding power and volume - right?
lunaticwraith said:
Well the official release date for the ICS FOTA in France is May 3rd, so I'll wait until then but having other options and the know-how to take actions is always a good basis. (plus I'm really not the patient type ^^)
Stupid question but I'm guessing EUU needs root too?
and also APX means rebooting while holding power and volume - right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the EUU just to see if it would keep me on my regions OTA upgrade path.
Sometimes you can have probs OTA'ing if you aren't using the rom from your region.
But in this case it gave me the correct OTA's.
APX is Acer Download mode, where the OTA upgrades are flashed - this EUU will do it via your PC. Button push method (power/reset button) not required.
No, the EUU does not need root which is why I tried it out for you
You will need to be on 3.2.1 before you will receive the ICS update
I used this EUU from vaches thread -
EUUs_SBK_Acer_A500_1.016.05_COM_GEN1
late for work will check back later
That's really helpful thanks I'm downloading the same EUU you used and will try it today or tomorrow depending on how much time I have, will keep you posted!
Ok so I did the EUU install and it worked fine, the tablet then allowed me to upgrade to 3.01 and then 3.1 then 3.2 via FOTA without any problem. But once I reached 3.2, the update tool informs me that there's no update available and my gear is up to date
So my guess is Acer France are not pushing the 3.2.1 FOTA update anymore...
Any other explanation?
lunaticwraith said:
Ok so I did the EUU install and it worked fine, the tablet then allowed me to upgrade to 3.01 and then 3.1 then 3.2 via FOTA without any problem. But once I reached 3.2, the update tool informs me that there's no update available and my gear is up to date
So my guess is Acer France are not pushing the 3.2.1 FOTA update anymore...
Any other explanation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear u got thru the EUU process OK, not so great u still can't ota to 3.2.1
Others have reported similar issues not sure if/how they were ever resolved. As moscow posted earlier,ota,s are not made available to all users in all regions, all at once, so it may be just a matter of waiting for the next "push cycle" to roll round.
At least you know you can always get back to stock if you ever decide to root and go custom There no direct root method for 3.2, just use that same euu to get back to 3.1 and use iconia root and Acer recovery installer from the market and you're ready to flash your rom of choice
Pls post back if u do get the ota - best of luck
rgds Donna
Yeah I was just browsing the XDA forums, contemplating the idea to rollback and root and then installing this
I wonder if it's worth waiting for the OTA... as for what you said about waiting for the next "push cycle" I've been waiting since I got the tablet and the update hasn't come yet, which is strange because the ICS update is due on May 3rd in France and I'd guess they'd have everyone up to date and ready for the update by now!
Rooting seems pretty straightforward and much easier than what it was on my Samsung Galaxy Spica: I found this
, a file called iconiaroot.apk on the sdcard aswell, rebooting your tablet while pushing the volume down button so its starts flashing the buggy honeycomb version.
Then start up the tablet again, rush to the market, download some file manager, with that filemanager explore your sdcard, and install the iconiaroot.apk file, once thats done, rush back to the market and download and install acer recovery installer. At that point you will have CWM (clockworkmod) installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
is that all there is to it?
In any case I'll keep you posted just so it can help anyone with the same issue!
alsoe FYI and just for the anecdote: the reason I'm so cautious about everything and scared ****less of rooting is that the tablet is a present from my girlfriend for my 30th birthday, and she'll hang me with my guts if I brick it.
Ok I rooted and flashed the above-mentioned rom and it works! I'm now under 3.2.1!
Thanks to everyone who helped me! When the ICS update comes I will post here to signal how the FOTA went.
Thanks again!
Lol, good onya for taking the plunge! Yeh acer recovery installer is brilliant, along with iconia root, makes the whole process stress free.
Will be interesting to see if you get a notification for ICS OTA with that rom.
Can always flash one of the leaks if u get impatient??
Glad everything's worked out and yr g/f still talking 2 u
rgds Donna
thx! I will post here when/if I get the OTA. and my love life is safe thanksnto iconia root
okay so the ota has been rolling for over a week and a half now and still nothing for me
Related
I'm trying to restore my Acer Iconia A500 back to the stock/ original ROM so that I can grab the official update in July. Is there any way to do that? I really like the custom ROMS, I just want to revert to see what it was like.
Mestiza5683 said:
I'm trying to restore my Acer Iconia A500 back to the stock/ original ROM so that I can grab the official update in July. Is there any way to do that? I really like the custom ROMS, I just want to revert to see what it was like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And, of course you made a backup via clockworkmod???? eh?
Why are so many not making backups of their tabs before installing unknown software?
There's lots of threads about this in the forums with instructions already. And this belongs in the General forum, not development.
Yes I'd also be interested in this. I have the droid x so when ever I want to revert to factory settings theirs a program on the computer (rsd lite) I use to revert it. So I almost never backup my roms. Now on my iconia they don't have such program. At least that I know of. So I flashed a rom on my iconia and didn't make a backup of my current one. I tried fixing it by flashing stock_acer a500.zip I thing by dexter don't quote me on that one. But it was the emea version so now its stock european and I live in america. Help is apreciated.
I'm a flashing person that has flashed many times on my phones. I forgot to make a nandroid backup of my original rom myself...so I'm not judging. I would say, flash honeyvillian, as its the closest thing to stock I've seen.
But, if your already flashing, I wouldn't want to grab the official anything...someone will post it once it comes out.
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
I want to flash it to the latest stock. So when ota 3.1 is released, I could rest assure knowing that my device would get updates ota.
Euclid's Brother said:
And, of course you made a backup via clockworkmod???? eh?
Why are so many not making backups of their tabs before installing unknown software?
There's lots of threads about this in the forums with instructions already. And this belongs in the General forum, not development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
because we are impatient and stupid
I am running to get someone with a tablet of my country to get back the STOCK ROM in case of... I am going to see if I can deal with the shop to root and recovery on SD Card the stock rom so I will be able to have the stock rom...
For USA version 1.104.02, Check out this post.. You'll probably want to skip flashing the stock recovery until you know the system will boot normally.. So from this post, run itsmagic, flash boot, flexrom and system, in that order. Preferable from an adb connection. The tablet will freeze while flashing system. Give at least 5 mintues to make sure it's complete.
You may need to do a data wipe if it bootloops (that's why you should skip flashing recovery). Once it's booting normally, you can flash the stock recovery if you want.
Alternatively, you should be able to replace the files in dexter's stock update zip with these files. But I haven't looked at that zip, so I don't know if system is an image file or a archive file.
Thanks for the replies quick question though. How do in run its magic is their a command for ADB or do I acess it via clockwork recovery?
Respawntime said:
Thanks for the replies quick question though. How do in run its magic is their a command for ADB or do I acess it via clockwork recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You download it from the itsmagic thread in the development form and follow the directions in that thread.
Euclid's Brother said:
And, of course you made a backup via clockworkmod???? eh?
Why are so many not making backups of their tabs before installing unknown software?
There's lots of threads about this in the forums with instructions already. And this belongs in the General forum, not development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I too would like to restore to the 3.0.1 stock rom, however my backup of the stock rom got corrupted somehow. I know it had to be something I done, but know not what it was I did. Any help would be much appreciated. Or would it be a better idea to flash the 3.1 leak?
Hi everyone. I'm totally new to Android. My relative have bought an a500 for me, and I should receive it in a couple of days. I'm very eager to join you guys .
I have read your forum vigorously for 2 months, since I started looking for a tablets. And I understand the risk of using Custom ROMs, since I used them on my Samsung i8910 (I know it's obsolete, but I will stick will it).
I have some questions about my coming a500:
1/ Look like it will definitely come with stock 3.2, so if I want to root it (in order to install ROMs), I will have to revert back to earlier version. I read the guide to revert to 3.0.1 carefully, and it seems that Method 2 is much easier. Can I use that method immediately when I got my hand on the a500?
2/ I read somewhere that I will need the UID if I happen to brick my a500. Do I really need it?
3/ Can I skip the step of backing up my device, since I don't have anything on it yet?
4/ If I follow the Method 2 above, after flashing the unstable 3.0.1, I will have to root it with Iconiaroot, and then install CWD? The CWD 1.6 from tegraowners site seem complicated for me to install . Can I install Acer Recovery Installer from Market, and then update CWD to 1.6 ? To update, just download 1.6, copy to micro sd and then boot into CWD, select update option? Can anyone please give me a short guide to do this .
5/ After having a rooted 3.0.1 with CWD installed, I can flash any ROMs I want? First, download the ROM, copy to micro sd, then boot into CWD, wipe everything (data, cache, dalvik cache), then select flash from zip file?
6/ I'm thinking of getting either Taboonay or Thor's. Which one is better? I heard that Thor's is faster, but no hardware screen rotation lock (still can use software lock), and no auto-brightness. I want everything work like champ (I can accept two above bugs), I don't need GPS, but stable Wifi and Bluetooth is must-have. I need recommendation, please.
7/ I don't have plan for 3G dongle right now, but maybe in future. So in that case, which ROMs is right for me? And is getting those dongles work hard to do? I read that patching the 3g patch in Thor's 14.2 cause battery rain fast (whether the dongle is in or out).
8/ There are also some news that ICS will be released by Acer in mid Jan, so is it worth install a custom ROMs now? Or I should wait?
Thanks a lot in advance.
redguardsoldier said:
1/ Look like it will definitely come with stock 3.2, so if I want to root it (in order to install ROMs), I will have to revert back to earlier version. I read the guide to revert to 3.0.1 carefully, and it seems that Method 2 is much easier. Can I use that method immediately when I got my hand on the a500?
Answer = Yes. But seriously, you may want to check it out for a couple of hours or so, to make sure there are no defects. No sense in creating headaches if you have to return it. Also, it may come with 3.1, so check it first.
2/ I read somewhere that I will need the UID if I happen to brick my a500. Do I really need it?
Answer = Depends on how bad you screw it up. But it's always good to have the number, just in case.
3/ Can I skip the step of backing up my device, since I don't have anything on it yet?
Answer = Yes. You can skip any step you wish. Just don't come crying when you fubar your device. Always do a recovery before flashing. Unless you just like to live on the edge.
4/ If I follow the Method 2 above, after flashing the unstable 3.0.1, I will have to root it with Iconiaroot, and then install CWD? The CWD 1.6 from tegraowners site seem complicated for me to install . Can I install Acer Recovery Installer from Market, and then update CWD to 1.6 ? To update, just download 1.6, copy to micro sd and then boot into CWD, select update option? Can anyone please give me a short guide to do this .
Answer = Root it and run the Acer Recovery tool. You wanna short guide? Ok. Run Acer Recovery. Install recovery. .
5/ After having a rooted 3.0.1 with CWD installed, I can flash any ROMs I want? First, download the ROM, copy to micro sd, then boot into CWD, wipe everything (data, cache, dalvik cache), then select flash from zip file?
Answer = Yes. Please do not do a n00b move and flash a kernel instead of a rom.
6/ I'm thinking of getting either Taboonay or Thor's. Which one is better? I heard that Thor's is faster, but no hardware screen rotation lock (still can use software lock), and no auto-brightness. I want everything work like champ (I can accept two above bugs), I don't need GPS, but stable Wifi and Bluetooth is must-have. I need recommendation, please.
Answer = Try them both and decide. Both are good.
7/ I don't have plan for 3G dongle right now, but maybe in future. So in that case, which ROMs is right for me? And is getting those dongles work hard to do? I read that patching the 3g patch in Thor's 14.2 cause battery rain fast (whether the dongle is in or out).
Answer = too many dongles out there. Get one first, then come back and ask.
8/ There are also some news that ICS will be released by Acer in mid Jan, so is it worth install a custom ROMs now? Or I should wait?
Answer = If you believe that, I have a bridge in the Mohave Desert to sell you. They will release it, "when" they release it. And it will probably have a different bootloader, so the root methods may not work, which could take some more time. And, it will probably be offered on their newer Tablets first.
QUOTE]
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Click to collapse
Moscow Desire said:
redguardsoldier said:
1/ Look like it will definitely come with stock 3.2, so if I want to root it (in order to install ROMs), I will have to revert back to earlier version. I read the guide to revert to 3.0.1 carefully, and it seems that Method 2 is much easier. Can I use that method immediately when I got my hand on the a500?
Answer = Yes. But seriously, you may want to check it out for a couple of hours or so, to make sure there are no defects. No sense in creating headaches if you have to return it. Also, it may come with 3.1, so check it first.
2/ I read somewhere that I will need the UID if I happen to brick my a500. Do I really need it?
Answer = Depends on how bad you screw it up. But it's always good to have the number, just in case.
3/ Can I skip the step of backing up my device, since I don't have anything on it yet?
Answer = Yes. You can skip any step you wish. Just don't come crying when you fubar your device. Always do a recovery before flashing. Unless you just like to live on the edge.
4/ If I follow the Method 2 above, after flashing the unstable 3.0.1, I will have to root it with Iconiaroot, and then install CWD? The CWD 1.6 from tegraowners site seem complicated for me to install . Can I install Acer Recovery Installer from Market, and then update CWD to 1.6 ? To update, just download 1.6, copy to micro sd and then boot into CWD, select update option? Can anyone please give me a short guide to do this .
Answer = Root it and run the Acer Recovery tool. You wanna short guide? Ok. Run Acer Recovery. Install recovery. .
5/ After having a rooted 3.0.1 with CWD installed, I can flash any ROMs I want? First, download the ROM, copy to micro sd, then boot into CWD, wipe everything (data, cache, dalvik cache), then select flash from zip file?
Answer = Yes. Please do not do a n00b move and flash a kernel instead of a rom.
6/ I'm thinking of getting either Taboonay or Thor's. Which one is better? I heard that Thor's is faster, but no hardware screen rotation lock (still can use software lock), and no auto-brightness. I want everything work like champ (I can accept two above bugs), I don't need GPS, but stable Wifi and Bluetooth is must-have. I need recommendation, please.
Answer = Try them both and decide. Both are good.
7/ I don't have plan for 3G dongle right now, but maybe in future. So in that case, which ROMs is right for me? And is getting those dongles work hard to do? I read that patching the 3g patch in Thor's 14.2 cause battery rain fast (whether the dongle is in or out).
Answer = too many dongles out there. Get one first, then come back and ask.
8/ There are also some news that ICS will be released by Acer in mid Jan, so is it worth install a custom ROMs now? Or I should wait?
Answer = If you believe that, I have a bridge in the Mohave Desert to sell you. They will release it, "when" they release it. And it will probably have a different bootloader, so the root methods may not work, which could take some more time. And, it will probably be offered on their newer Tablets first.
QUOTE]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great answer, great sense of humor lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Moscow Desire said:
redguardsoldier said:
1/ Look like it will definitely come with stock 3.2, so if I want to root it (in order to install ROMs), I will have to revert back to earlier version. I read the guide to revert to 3.0.1 carefully, and it seems that Method 2 is much easier. Can I use that method immediately when I got my hand on the a500?
Answer = Yes. But seriously, you may want to check it out for a couple of hours or so, to make sure there are no defects. No sense in creating headaches if you have to return it. Also, it may come with 3.1, so check it first.
2/ I read somewhere that I will need the UID if I happen to brick my a500. Do I really need it?
Answer = Depends on how bad you screw it up. But it's always good to have the number, just in case.
3/ Can I skip the step of backing up my device, since I don't have anything on it yet?
Answer = Yes. You can skip any step you wish. Just don't come crying when you fubar your device. Always do a recovery before flashing. Unless you just like to live on the edge.
4/ If I follow the Method 2 above, after flashing the unstable 3.0.1, I will have to root it with Iconiaroot, and then install CWD? The CWD 1.6 from tegraowners site seem complicated for me to install . Can I install Acer Recovery Installer from Market, and then update CWD to 1.6 ? To update, just download 1.6, copy to micro sd and then boot into CWD, select update option? Can anyone please give me a short guide to do this .
Answer = Root it and run the Acer Recovery tool. You wanna short guide? Ok. Run Acer Recovery. Install recovery. .
5/ After having a rooted 3.0.1 with CWD installed, I can flash any ROMs I want? First, download the ROM, copy to micro sd, then boot into CWD, wipe everything (data, cache, dalvik cache), then select flash from zip file?
Answer = Yes. Please do not do a n00b move and flash a kernel instead of a rom.
6/ I'm thinking of getting either Taboonay or Thor's. Which one is better? I heard that Thor's is faster, but no hardware screen rotation lock (still can use software lock), and no auto-brightness. I want everything work like champ (I can accept two above bugs), I don't need GPS, but stable Wifi and Bluetooth is must-have. I need recommendation, please.
Answer = Try them both and decide. Both are good.
7/ I don't have plan for 3G dongle right now, but maybe in future. So in that case, which ROMs is right for me? And is getting those dongles work hard to do? I read that patching the 3g patch in Thor's 14.2 cause battery rain fast (whether the dongle is in or out).
Answer = too many dongles out there. Get one first, then come back and ask.
8/ There are also some news that ICS will be released by Acer in mid Jan, so is it worth install a custom ROMs now? Or I should wait?
Answer = If you believe that, I have a bridge in the Mohave Desert to sell you. They will release it, "when" they release it. And it will probably have a different bootloader, so the root methods may not work, which could take some more time. And, it will probably be offered on their newer Tablets first.
QUOTE]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1/ My a500 is the BestBuy 229usd version, specs reviews said that it come with 3.2. I think my relative got enough time playing with it before hand it to me .
2/ Ok, I will get my UID, and store it somewhere, just in case .
3/ Did you mean backup the recovery image?
4/ Thks.
5/ I understand kernel vs ROM .
6&7/ Ok, look like I will go with Thor's. Since I know that Huawei dongles are working, I will exchange my gf's E173 for a new one. Anyway, haven't decide to go with 3g or not yet.
8/ Ok, stick to custom ROM .
Thanks a lot for your answers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
kjy2010 said:
Great answer, great sense of humor lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, things have been way to serious around here lately
---------- Post added at 05:20 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:08 PM ----------
redguardsoldier said:
Moscow Desire said:
3/ Did you mean backup the recovery image?
Answer = Not exactly. Before you make major changes like flash a rom/kernel, you should boot your tab to recovery, and make your recovery image from there. This generally creates the file on your sd card, where it's generally safe when you do your 3 wipes and flash.
6&7/ Ok, look like I will go with Thor's. Since I know that Huawei dongles are working, I will exchange my gf's E173 for a new one. Anyway, haven't decide to go with 3g or not yet.
Answer = Like I said, play with a couple of the roms out there. After you do this a couple times, you can flash 1 in about 10 minutes or less. Generally, you get a good feel for a rom within the first 30 minutes after flashing. Before loading it up with apps and customizing. Also, some kernels work better with some roms.
8/ Ok, stick to custom ROM .
Answer = Yeah, I think it's going to be awhile til a good solid usable version of ICS comes along. The devs are making good process and actually have something good enough for a daily driver... sort of, but, the real strides will be made after some of the newer devices are released. Best to wait for awhile, especially if your device is "mission critical", like mine. But it's ok to flash some of the stuff in work.
Thanks a lot for your answers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No Problem. Welcome to the "Gang"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought it and it appears to have ICS because the Android version is 4.0.3 but that is all I really know right now. I expect that it was never updated OTA though because the guy I bought it off had it for 2 months and he was not the one who rooted it. I was going to leave it as is because I bought it for my 10 year old daughter...but the camera takes very blurry, kind of grainy looking pictures.
I am not afraid to root because I had a Samsung Fascinate and I loved the custom roms I downloaded to it. It had been over a year since i had the Fascinate so i am a little rusty when it comes to all if this. My problem is not knowing where to start with this A500 because I am unsure what has already been done to it.
The guy who sold it to me said he did a factory restore, but when I ran the check root app it does state that it's rooted and I figured it was because there is a app called superuser on the device. I don't know what kernal it has. I don't know if it has a bootloader and/or the version number. I don't know if it has CWM and/or the version. number.
What is the best way to proceed? By the way, the tablet is very clean with absolutely no scratches anywhere. Not a bad buy for $175 with a leather case...
Setting > About tablet. That should tell you quite a bit of info about it no?
download the acer recovery app , it will tell you what Bootloader you have and what recovery
Thanks for the replies! When I get home I will check. I don't want to brick the thing. I ordered a micro SD today and I will get it in 2 days so there is no hurry for me to proceed. Is it worth it to keep it rooted? Is the OTA ICS good enough? I don't think my daughter cares if the tablet is overclocked but if the roms are much better than stock than I would keep it rooted and then download a preferred rom.
Vintage144, in another post you specified that there is a Acer recovery beta...will I need that or would I just get the one from google play? Also when I find out which version of recovery and bootloader I have...I am not sure what to do with the information. Could AfterOta help me accomplish what I want if my goal is to try and fix her camera issue...either by going back to stock or updating the kernal and rom.
I don't want to seem like a noob but my only rooting experience was with my Fascinate which I did everything from stock. Now that I am not coming from stock, I am unsure where to go with what I have. It's like trying to get to a goal but not sure what step to start at. If I was starting from stock I could follow some of the threads here but it's not stock.
What info will I need to post here to let you guys know what is in my A500? I know that the Android version is 4.0.3 , what else will I need to post?
well the beta copy I believe is at thors tegra forum , but its by euclids brother (thats his name on xda) anyway if you've upgraded your BL it will tell you version you have and might give you accurate Recovery as well, if the device is only for your daughter and she's too young to really do anything I would stick with a stock rom and realistically I would upgrade the boot loader , why be left behind?
Theres no reason to root if you dont plan on doing anything major with it,that being said you wont be able to get a newer Boot Loader or custom recovery without it, and custom recovery is well worth the effort!
You guys are the pros so I will take your advise. I don't mind it being rooted and if there are some really nice roms I expect my daughter would like the different looks...it would seperate hers from others.
Android
4.0.3
Kernel version
2.6.39.4+
Image version
Acer_AV041_A500_RV16RB02_WW_GEN1
Build number
KJY2010lcylicious
Anything else I will get when I get home.
I would like to know how to get through all this in case I decide to get myself a A500 it's a really nice tablet.
Okay
Recovery Version: Revamped for Iconia 3.16
Bootloader Version: 3.01
With all the above information what would be my next step?
Sorry
Recovery Version: RA Revamed for Iconia 3.16
Damn auto correct!!!
You're already running an older custom rom...
You have root - your words not mine...
You can download another custom rom, put it on the sd card/ internal memory and reboot into recovery. You need to wipe cache, dalvik cache and do a data wipe(factory reset) after which you can install zip from sd card. Go to the rom zip file you put there and install...
Wait until it boots...
I don't know if you're running the new ICS bootloaders or not.
BEFORE FLASHING - make a nandroid backup. If things go bad then you can go back and restore the tab to before the flash...
It's worth getting your CPUID and keeping it safe somewhere and you might think about installing the ICS bootloaders (I'd do it just to be sure I have them) but thats you're choice...
Good luck...
ultramag69 said:
You're already running an older custom rom...
You have root - your words not mine...
You can download another custom rom, put it on the sd card/ internal memory and reboot into recovery. You need to wipe cache, dalvik cache and do a data wipe(factory reset) after which you can install zip from sd card. Go to the rom zip file you put there and install...
Wait until it boots...
I don't know if you're running the new ICS bootloaders or not.
BEFORE FLASHING - make a nandroid backup. If things go bad then you can go back and restore the tab to before the flash...
It's worth getting your CPUID and keeping it safe somewhere and you might think about installing the ICS bootloaders (I'd do it just to be sure I have them) but thats you're choice...
Good luck...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably want to hold off on flashing roms a second.
He's running an HC Bootloader. I'm 99% sure of this. Reason, RA Revamped 3.16 doesn't work with ICS Bootloaders. So you can install an ICS Rom, but, it has to be an ICS Rom for the HC Bootloader. And the performance under HC BL is not near as good as ICS BL.
I would do like UltraMag mentioned as far as install steps and such. It's how we install roms.
Check this thread;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425 (steps 1-6)
, and install an unlocked ICS Bootloader and a CWM 7 or 7.2 recovery. Then install one of the Roms made for the ICS Bootloader.
I know AfterOTA will do some of this for you. But this thread gives a good idea of what's going on.
Thanks for your help. I will be getting my micro sd card on Friday. In the mean time I will do a bunch of reading about the things you guys told me to do...again thanks a lot. I really appreciate the help.
I am the kind of person that really wants to know what I am doing...I don't expect all the answers, I just don't want to brick this device.
Forstir9,
Moscow Desire is a great dev on this board, his information about updating the bootloader is dead on. I recommend reading the entire OP in that thread, and then re-read section listed as Automated Flashing Tools, it really helps tremendously if you are a person familiar with root, but not extremely dynamic with making these changes.
I've rooted several BN Nooks and my A500 many many times and love it. I had the Honeylicious ROM that you listed prior to what I'm currently running. KYJ had a great HC ROM with that one! Personal preference currently for me on the ICS ROM is FLEXREAPER from Civato, poster of the referenced article from MD above, you can find that ROM info here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=22964651&postcount=1 Lots of cool features and step by step directions, which are what UltraMag69 listed in their post. There are many many different options though and I recommend reviewing several and then settling in on one when you find the one that fits your (or your daughter's) preferences best.
If you enjoy doing this and playing with the tablet your daughter may not keep it and may end up getting something different, because you may have too much fun with it...good luck, have fun, don't be scared to try things and ask questions (after you read first), and most importantly BACKUP BACKUP BACKUP...
Good luck,
-DB
Let me get this straight then.
1) boot into recovery and make a nandroid backup.
2) within that backup I should be able to find the CPUID on my sdcard...I will want to write this down and the write it down again somewhere else...out this number on my phone and computer...pretty much don't lose this number.
3) follow steps 1-6 from the link that Moscow Desire posted.
I am going to go with the Flexreaper rom...should I go with the extreme one or is there another Flexreaper rom that isn't extreme?
4) I think the 6 steps above will install a ICS bootloader
5) find and install the newest recovery
I only have 2 questions
How many of these steps does the Afterota app get Rid of?
Should I use the Acer recovery app to install the bootloader and/or the recovery?
forstir9 said:
Let me get this straight then.
1) boot into recovery and make a nandroid backup.
2) within that backup I should be able to find the CPUID on my sdcard...I will want to write this down and the write it down again somewhere else...out this number on my phone and computer...pretty much don't lose this number.
3) follow steps 1-6 from the link that Moscow Desire posted.
I am going to go with the Flexreaper rom...should I go with the extreme one or is there another Flexreaper rom that isn't extreme?
4) I think the 6 steps above will install a ICS bootloader
5) find and install the newest recovery
I only have 2 questions
How many of these steps does the Afterota app get Rid of?
Should I use the Acer recovery app to install the bootloader and/or the recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First off. Thanks for thinking I am the "God" of the 501". Yeah, I know it pretty well.
Second, Ultramag, is is one of my right hand men. So I suggest you heed his advice well. I always trust his judgement. Am sure he has puled my arse out of the wringer a few times. Well, maybe not, but you get the picture. Some of us on XDA, support each other. That's how it is. I just noticed the bootloader version, And being one who likes flashing experimental code, well, I noticed.
So;
1. ALWAYS make a recovery backup. Then, restore it to make sure it works. (lots of people don't do this and they get fubar'd later).
2. UID. Seriously. Ok, the link on the many ways to get it. You don't want to get it, well... your;e pretty much fubar'd
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1624645
3. He has the normal, and one with a kernel you can overclock. Your choice. Really, if you don't OC, then you run the same as the original. Please don't ask me the names of Civatos roms. The extreme will be fine for you. Just don't overclock it if you don't want to. Only difference is the kernel. Not the OS.
4. Yes.
5. For recovery, I would say CWM 1.7.2. Should work for you. 1.7.0 is also ok. Publick recovery is ok too.
6. Never ran After OTA. But hear it is good when you already have ICS.
Forget AcerRecovery. You will already have bootloaders and recovery installed.
MD
Know I'll probably get a bashing out of this but there's a V1.7.3 recovery on the site that must not be named (cough, tegraowners, cough) that supports the Aroma installer - on Thor's ICS rom anyway...
Just thought I'd throw that in too...
I am ready to do a backup...it's asking me what I want to backup...it has a (X) next to the following...
Boot
System
Data
Cache
Flexrom
Is this correct the way it is?
EDIT: ignore this post I didn't see page 2 -_-
Sorry that I didn't post this in Friday...but I really want to thank everyone for their help. It went very easy and it want too much different than my fascinate.
The camera still takes grainy pictures and a few apps has sounds issues but she really likes the rom a lot.
Thanks again for the help.
Hi All,
I'm in a bit of a unique pickle. I have a Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 1838-CTO, it is a US 32GB wifi-only tablet with all stock hardware (with disconnected keyboard folio).
I am running build number ThinkPadTablet_A310_02_0037_0075_US
It is not liking to play more than 5 minutes of a video before saying video cannot be played, video it played fine before. Tried all the standard steps, recopying, rebooting, etc etc. The device also sporadically reboots 20-30 minutes into use, sometimes. I have root, rootprotector, and I have CWR. I have not used my tablet since about a week after the first update from my current version above: my device went loopy, THEN the update failed, and I stuck it in a closet, $%^@%$*&@ed off at it for not working.
I want to either (depending on difficulty, and recommendations here) update my device to the latest Lenovo ICS *OR* Run a custom JB ROM (perhaps http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1778375 though it is for ROW not US, unsure if that matters). Priority on maintaining root access, could care less about what recovery is used, etc.
OTA updates are failing since I had to get CWR , and I am not sure how to use CWR to manually patch/update.
As for the glitching and all that, I am fairly certain it has something to do with when I rooted it, I was a very early adopter of the first permaroot (I place no blame except myself for any and all issues, and muchly appreciate the efforts of others in allowing me to root my device, whether it bricks it or makes it 10x better). I just want to update my device to ICS and start using it again. I have done some searching but am finding that almost everyone is using 0089 or later with the same issue I have, trying to get back to stock bootloader. Honestly I would like to get it on Lenovo ICS, maintain root, and go from there.
I appreciate any and all advice, it's a personal device so I am fairly lenient on what I am willing to try.
Update: I would most appreciate a stock Lenovo ICS dump flashable from CWR if someone knows where to get one, again though any help at all is appreciated.
Update 2: CWM 5.5.0.4 unable to mount the SD card (/sdcard - not even sure if it is trying to mount internal or external, I have ALWAYS had nothing but issues with the external ALWAYS being write-protected no matter the position of the physical slider switch, though it always reads fine - Sandisk 32GB micro-SDHC with Sandisk MicroSD to SD adaptor), so flashing anything from CWM is a no-go. I want to take this thing and send it on a flying ride out the window, the only thing stopping me is it would probably survive just fine to spite and mock me. Sorry about being long winded, rather give you guys as much as possible info.
Is rooting the tablet all you've done? Did you remove any stock apps? I had the same problem with my TPT when I tried upgrading to ICS(from build 0089_US on wifi only 16GB)but only because I had a corrupt busybox file or something. Try going back to complete stock(NO recovery no root) and try to do an automatic OTA 2, then OTA 3. It should work.
How do I go back to stock recovery/bootloader? I rooted back when you had to swap in ClockworkMod Recovery, so my updates fail consistently when I have to reboot to apply, my guess is that the updater tries to pass calls to the lenovo bootloader that do not exist with CWR.
If there is a way to restore my bootloader then I should be all set, otherwise I think I need to find a good cooked rom
Get Some ICS
Sublime865 said:
...otherwise I think I need to find a good cooked rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I posted an ICS Nandroid from a US 32GB TPT, exactly what you are looking for, here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=28240019&postcount=14
It will return you to stock Restore, losing CWM, but you can reinstall a proper CWM for ICS afterwards. See the Development Forum for the updated CWM version that works in ICS/OTA3.
You will have root, but you must download and use OTA Rootkeeper to bring Superuser back (don't forget to download and open SuperUser from Play store).
Good luck!
pwstein said:
I posted an ICS Nandroid from a US 32GB TPT, exactly what you are looking for, here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=28240019&postcount=14
It will return you to stock Restore, losing CWM, but you can reinstall a proper CWM for ICS afterwards. See the Development Forum for the updated CWM version that works in ICS/OTA3.
You will have root, but you must download and use OTA Rootkeeper to bring Superuser back (don't forget to download and open SuperUser from Play store).
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Going to try it tonight/tomorrow. Updating my Vivid to a non-corrupt CWR then flashing HolICS 1.3 from 0.9b tonight. Oh the adventures I get myself into... XD
Thanks for the upload, I'll let you know if(when) it works, either way I appreciate the effort!
My colleague brought his stock A500 to me in a bricked condition last week.
I need a way to restore it. If I try to do a wipe it will say bootloader error if i try the recovery the droid falls down with the red sign with the exclamation mark.
This tablet has never been rooted, my colleague is not in to such things, it's lived its life with ordinary acer otas and the occational very young human (5 year old) trial wich it has survived.
He has installed all the OTAs he ever got on the tablet and this is in Sweden so it would probably be a 4.0.3 acer stock on it now.
I'm guessing it has died during a OTA or something. if i turn it on it will sit at the acer logo indefinitly.
I Bricked my A500 during a rooting atempt resulting in me needed to flash a stock rom to get it working again, but i cant find the thread i read to un-brick my A500.
Please Help!
try this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1839313
dibb_nz wrote:
try this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1839313
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that thread seems to hold all i need, although i can't do a full wipe. when i do the flipswitch wipe procedure it halts with bootloader error
Im hoping to just be able to flash the stock rom from the link you gave me. Is it entirely necessary to do the wipe prior to flash? can i wipe it afterwards?
Hogbola said:
Well that thread seems to hold all i need, although i can't do a full wipe. when i do the flipswitch wipe procedure it halts with bootloader error
Im hoping to just be able to flash the stock rom from the link you gave me. Is it entirely necessary to do the wipe prior to flash? can i wipe it afterwards?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
we're assuming the tab is full stock and currently on ICS...
and we're assuming he never tried to 'fix' his tab by flashing one thing or another...
the bootloader error worries me...what exactly does it say...
Yes the wipes are really important!! and not being able to use the button method to do so is concerning...
what happens with the Over The Air (OTA) updates is its just that...an update...it leaves all your settings/data intact. When you OTA from one build to another, like Gingerbread 3.0 to Honeycomb 3.1/2 and then to ICS 4.0 - you drag all your apps and settings with you and of course some things that work with 3.2 will not work under ICS....fjor instance, lots of folk had trouble with wifi disconnects, once they got to ICS - or they had apps force closing and other 'glitches'. This is why everyone tells you to do the wipes - as this fixes these things! In the case of stock ICS my gmail would f/c all the time no matter how many times I wiped/formatted....So for a smooth running tab - flash a custom rom!!!!!!
But getting back to you...
From that link i gave you...download the 3.1_Full.zip....its decrypted so just extract it and get the "update.zip" from it..
This "update.zip" is not an incremental "update" but the full stock rom....
once installed you'll be on GB you will need to root it with iconia root and then use acer recovery installer to flash cwm....(get these from the playstore)
do a backup or adb devices so you can get your CPUID....this is important...if anything goes wrong at any stage this is the only thing that will get you unbricked....see the cpuid link in my sig for more on this, please take the time to read it, even if it doesnt make much sense to you, read it anyway....
AFTER you have retrieved your cpuid, you can nvflash the patched bootloader/recovery pkg which means you are able to flash ICS/JB custom roms
they cannot be flashed via cwm like normal...you must use nvFlash to do it....
OR
take the OTA route to ICS...this takes a bit of time...I did it last week and it was a good 6-7 hours to go from GB to ICS
there are pre-rooted stock roms if you wanna stay stock see civato's stock rom thread for that here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1633907
official stock rom list by blackthund3r are here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1816560
civs guide to flashing the unlocked bootloader here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
I am in a similar situation. Push the power button and it goes to a screen with white acer on black and stays there. Totally stock ICS, no root. I tried the update.zip thing and after automatically rebooting it says "Boot verified failed...". I don't have my cpuid, or have installed previously CWM or anything like that. I can get into APX mode. This guy here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1751978 could only get into APX with no cpuid as well, but i don't understand all of the ubuntuu and command line stuff. I would love for someone to be able to walk a dummy like me through this mess. Thanks for any help.
if u got boot verified fail error you need nvFlash to repair that....as u know, with nvflash you need yr cpuid....wot about usbdeview? if you've never plugged yr tab into yr PC - then it won't work and the ONLY other way is Linux....
might be best to start yr own thread with a descriptive title, not just a help I'm bricked no uid, thread there are hundreds of those....the more effort u put into the title the more likely you will attract the attention of someone who can actually help...and remember you just don't need a bit of help but a blow by blow description of what to do and how....this will be very time consuming....at the very least get ubuntu installed, maybe just try a few things, anything to show you are capable of at least giving it a go yourself..
there are others who would like 2 know how to do this as well...having a specific thread of its own would be great
good luck
dibb
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Actually, I have connected it to my PC before. Only for transferring media though. If I've done that, is the some way to retrieve my cpuid from the PC?
yup...usbdeview.zip see the bottom of the OP in the cpuid guide in my sig
Thanks alot for your help. I used usbdeview and got my cpuid. Now I should use nvflash? Know where a good step by step is for that one?
you could try the one in my sig??
dibb_nz said:
you could try the one in my sig??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right. Sorry, I didn't notice that before. Thanks again for your direction.
"To install one of these roms you will need a custom recovery and to get that you must flash the patched bootloader FIRSt - once its patched you can install a recovery any old way you like"
Looking at that guide, would you please tell me what a custom recovery is and how to get one? Btw, I don't plan to do a custom ROM yet, I just want to get the damn thing working first. Was thinking of using the HC EUUs from the firmware files list. However there are two files, a .rar and a .exe listed. Which do i use?
NvigR8 said:
Right. Sorry, I didn't notice that before. Thanks again for your direction.
"To install one of these roms you will need a custom recovery and to get that you must flash the patched bootloader FIRSt - once its patched you can install a recovery any old way you like"
Looking at that guide, would you please tell me what a custom recovery is and how to get one? Btw, I don't plan to do a custom ROM yet, I just want to get the damn thing working first. Was thinking of using the HC EUUs from the firmware files list. However there are two files, a .rar and a .exe listed. Which do i use?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The .rar EUU is for an A500, the .exe is for the A501, which do you have?
I've got the a500. However, I decided to go with a custom ICS rom after all. I managed to put a new bootloader and custom recovery on using the a500apx flash tool. That part went fine. I flashed this rom:
Acer_AV041_A500_1.054.00_WW_GEN1-FULL-ROOT (original odex)
and that appeared to go well according to twrp, but after rebooting, it just shows the bootloader again and stops there. Not sure what i did wrong.
I renamed the rom update.zip. Should i not have done that?
well congrats for getting thru the flash process with no probs!!!
as far as renaming to update.zip that was not such a good move...hopefully things havent been screwed up too much
just go back into recovery and do a FULL wipe/format
then to flash use the option "install from zip file" not sure where that is in TWRP but it will have one
Okay. I will reflash the rom after completely wiping again. Thanks.
On a different note, why do roms require particular bootloaders?
Also different, how do you like your SGS3? If i can manage to fix this thing, perhaps I'll root my phone...
NvigR8 said:
Okay. I will reflash the rom after completely wiping again. Thanks.
On a different note, why do roms require particular bootloaders?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The stock ICS BL is encrypted - more or less - the only way to 'flash' a recovery or rom is to have the "key" that "unlocks" - it more or less - if you dont use the right key then the OS will not boot - the 'key' is based on your cpuid which is why everyone is forever telling you to save it somewhere safe....
Also different, how do you like your SGS3? If i can manage to fix this thing, perhaps I'll root my phone...
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Click to collapse
I enjoy the big screen, took awhile to get used to it in my hand, kept dropping it....then I ran it over with my 44tonne truck after 3 days and munted it!!!!
I have a case for it now, and its gr8 - I havent installed a rom on it yet...the forums over there are jampacked and I have no idea what I'm doing, lol - its the first android device I've had that I've left stock for so long...but it does what I want...the camera is awesome -burst mode is the bomb - BUT do I think it was worth the money???? Still on the fence about that one.....
Ouch. Sorry to read about running over your phone. That would kill me. I really like my SGS3. I think I'll look into rooting it just to be able to back it up and get rid of the bloatware. I did that on my Captivate and prior to today, thats all I've ever done modding wise to an android device.
So, I managed to get my tab up and running again. Yay! I reflashed the rom w/out changing the name and worked like a charm. Now If only I knew why this happened in the first place... Thanks for all your help.
NvigR8 said:
Ouch. Sorry to read about running over your phone. That would kill me. I really like my SGS3. I think I'll look into rooting it just to be able to back it up and get rid of the bloatware. I did that on my Captivate and prior to today, thats all I've ever done modding wise to an android device.
So, I managed to get my tab up and running again. Yay! I reflashed the rom w/out changing the name and worked like a charm. Now If only I knew why this happened in the first place... Thanks for all your help.
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yeh sometimes happens with the tab for some reason - thank your lucky stars it didn't get stuck in apx mode...if that happens its normally a hardware fault so theres not alot u can do...I'm just pleased you got sorted without too much drama and it was as easy as reflashing the zip....so now you have the v8 BL - you're gold!!!
dibb_nz said:
we're assuming the tab is full stock and currently on ICS...
and we're assuming he never tried to 'fix' his tab by flashing one thing or another...
the bootloader error worries me...what exactly does it say...
Yes the wipes are really important!! and not being able to use the button method to do so is concerning...
what happens with the Over The Air (OTA) updates is its just that...an update...it leaves all your settings/data intact. When you OTA from one build to another, like Gingerbread 3.0 to Honeycomb 3.1/2 and then to ICS 4.0 - you drag all your apps and settings with you and of course some things that work with 3.2 will not work under ICS....fjor instance, lots of folk had trouble with wifi disconnects, once they got to ICS - or they had apps force closing and other 'glitches'. This is why everyone tells you to do the wipes - as this fixes these things! In the case of stock ICS my gmail would f/c all the time no matter how many times I wiped/formatted....So for a smooth running tab - flash a custom rom!!!!!!
But getting back to you...
From that link i gave you...download the 3.1_Full.zip....its decrypted so just extract it and get the "update.zip" from it..
This "update.zip" is not an incremental "update" but the full stock rom....
once installed you'll be on GB you will need to root it with iconia root and then use acer recovery installer to flash cwm....(get these from the playstore)
do a backup or adb devices so you can get your CPUID....this is important...if anything goes wrong at any stage this is the only thing that will get you unbricked....see the cpuid link in my sig for more on this, please take the time to read it, even if it doesnt make much sense to you, read it anyway....
AFTER you have retrieved your cpuid, you can nvflash the patched bootloader/recovery pkg which means you are able to flash ICS/JB custom roms
they cannot be flashed via cwm like normal...you must use nvFlash to do it....
OR
take the OTA route to ICS...this takes a bit of time...I did it last week and it was a good 6-7 hours to go from GB to ICS
there are pre-rooted stock roms if you wanna stay stock see civato's stock rom thread for that here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1633907
official stock rom list by blackthund3r are here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1816560
civs guide to flashing the unlocked bootloader here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1622425
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When i do the wipe it says
Code:
Erasing userdata...
Code:
Unrecoverable bootloader error (0x19000008)
Unrecoverable bootloader error (0x19000008)
Hogbola said:
When i do the wipe it says
Code:
Erasing userdata...
Code:
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I googled your error - the consensus from what I read is a corrupt OS due to running OTA updates...
Some had luck with rebooting. Others had to send it to Acer.
Did you run the update.zip? so what happens when you run the update.zip
Are you able to get into "apx mode"? If you can, hook up to your PC and see if your tab is recognised as an "apx device" - check "Hardware, Printers in win7"
Thats all I can suggest atm - if your tab does get into apx mode OK then you can find your cpuid by running Linux -
Maybe ask the guy if he's ever had the tab hooked up to his PC like to transfer files and stuff - get him to download "USBdeview" to his PC -
this will show every single device thats ever been connected to the PC and it will show the "cpuid"...
Even if we do get the uid theres no guarantee it will fix the bootloader error - but we may as well explore all the options we can....
dibb_nz said:
USBDeview will only work when you have previously plugged your tab into the PC WHILE you were running HC Rom and BL
1. If you haven't plugged your tab into this pc before, do so now, before you run the program. HC ROM/BL ONLY
1a. Run the exe and you will be presented with a window of all the USB devices you have ever plugged into your computer.
2. Click on "VendorID" column along the top to sort them
3. Look for the number "0502" under Vendor ID AND "3325" Product ID
4. In the serial number column will be a 15-digit number this is your device ID.
5. Write the number down and put a 0 in front of it and now you have your CPU ID!!!
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