Rooting & Flashing To Stock 2.1
1. Download the files below
2. Copy "ESPRIMG.zip" to the root of your sd card on your phone
3. Extract "Super-Click 2.3.1" & "Mt3s Rooter" to their own folders on your computer
4. Navigate to settings on your phone. Select "Connect to Pc", choose "Charge Only"
5. Navigate to "Applications" then select "Devolpment" and make sure "USB Debugging" is on
6. Run the .exe files within each of the folders (Run .exe as Admin if your using Vista/Win7)
7. In SuperOneClick, select "Shell Root", wait for it to finish rooting
8. In the mt3gs rooter program, click on "Root Me"
You will need to turn on the phones WIFI within 30 seconds so be quick and then wait for it to restart.
9. Once your phone is rebooted it should be in BOOTLOADER Mode. Press volume down to select fastboot (If it doesnt show fastboot then select Bootloader and it will then show the menu with fastboot).
Once fastboot is highlighted, press the power button once.
It will check for ESPRIMG.zip and should show a progress bar in the top right.
After waiting a while it will ask you if you want to update, press volume up.
When it is finished it will ask to reboot, press volume up to do so. (If phone says on Mytouch circle for too long just take out the battery and restart)
If you want to put CM7 on your phone do instructions below.
Installing CM7 with Google Apps
1. Rename "update-cm-7.0.3-Slide-signed.zip" to "update.zip"
3. Copy "Update" & "gapps-gb-20110613-signed" to the root of your phone
4. Turn your phone off. Once off press and hold the volume down and power button at the same time.
5. It will look for the ESPRIMG again, after its done you will see the menu. Highlight "Recovery" and press the power button
6. A Red Triangle screen will show. Press volume up and power, then select "Wipe data/factory reset" then done do the same with "Wipe cache partition
7. After all that you will select "Apply sdcard:update.zip"
8. Select reboot system now
9. Once phone is restarted go into the app drawer and open ROM Manager.
10. Scroll down and select "Download Rom" then select install and then select the option it shows. It should say that Clockwork Mod installed.
11. Now select "Install Rom from SD Card" and select "gapps-gb-20110613-signed" and press OK twice.
It will reboot and show it installing.
Once done it will reboot again and your done. (Btw it will have you sign in and such)
DOWNLOAD THESE FILES:
SuperOneClick 2.3.1-
http://depositfiles.com/files/n0dcxce3t
Mt3s Rooter-
http://depositfiles.com/files/hn8tn6141
or
http://www.mediafire.com/?7yq3wo5yl3odz4k
HTC Espresso Stock Rom (ESPRIMG for 2.1 stock rom)-
http://www.4shared.com/file/OsmF_ZD7/ESPRIMG.html
CM7 Rom for Mytouch 3G Slide-
http://download.cyanogenmod.com/get/update-cm-7.0.3-Slide-signed.zip
Google Apps-
http://cmw.22aaf3.com/gapps/gapps-gb-20110613-signed.zip
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
MyTouch 3G Slide Drivers (These Might Help With Failed ADB Connectivity)
http://secure.htc.com/US/support/t-mobile-mytouch-3g-slide/downloads/
http://developer.android.com/sdk/win-usb.html
I pieced this together so I don't take full cred. I know this works because I did it to my phone as I typed it
If this works make sure to post it. Also remember to give thanks. This was not easy to figure out.
problem
what if it says cannot roll back bootloader while espring is updated it says bypassed
It bypasses normally
Why not use ClockWorkMod recovery as update.zip and use that to flash roms and things from there?
Just didn't wanna do it that way
thank you so much for posting this i have been trying to gain root ever since i got my phone which was last year thank you
I cant flash update.zip it keeps saying cant mount sd and when i reboot it says i dont have an sd card i need help im stuck with 2.1 and cant load a rom
not working
Didnt work for me.
superoneclick worked saying i had temporary adb root, then i would run mts rooter and it seems like that when the cmd prompt comes up that it doesnt work.
on the first part it said
"cd: can't cd to /sqlite_stmt_journals"
then after I turn wifi on and the cmd prompt goes again I get:
"./exploid not found" and " secretlol not found"
any help?
one small hiccup
Used these instructions to root a friend's phone last night. There was one deviation we had to deal with:
5. It will look for the ESPRIMG again, after its done you will see the menu. Highlight "Recovery" and press the power button
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While we could see the menu the phone only gave us the choice to run update (YES) or reboot (NO). Recovery was inaccessible. We ran the update (with the bootloader bypassed) then when asked to reboot we chose (NO) and then could select RECOVERY and follow the steps above.
Yes, we did repeat the UPDATE.ZIP process but this time it did not skip Bootloader. Soon CM7 was up and running.
Hope this helps and thanks for the great instructions.
i need some help my says i dont have sd card when it boots up .Also it wont let me apply the update.zip .it says cant mount /dev/block/mmcblk0
cant find /sdcard/update.zip
Ive already reloaded ESPRIMG aboput 15 times im stuck with a useless phone please help
Also my pc wont recognize my phone so i cant use adb or anything
angelo420 said:
I cant flash update.zip it keeps saying cant mount sd and when i reboot it says i dont have an sd card i need help im stuck with 2.1 and cant load a rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some sd cards work better than others. Sandisk with a little 4 work great. Try to reformat it with a pc and I think it needs to be Fat32
jasonftfw said:
Didnt work for me.
superoneclick worked saying i had temporary adb root, then i would run mts rooter and it seems like that when the cmd prompt comes up that it doesnt work.
on the first part it said
"cd: can't cd to /sqlite_stmt_journals"
then after I turn wifi on and the cmd prompt goes again I get:
"./exploid not found" and " secretlol not found"
any help?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your pc is not detecting your phone. Try installing HTC Sync from the Mytouch 3Gs support page. Also make sure to run it as an administrator while being logged in on a admin account
I actually rooted mine while placing the phone in SYNC Mode after removing the sync program and pressing back button on phone to have it stop looking for SYNC...Just remove SYNC program from the computer not the drivers for the phone to be recognized.
Your pc is not detecting your phone. Try installing HTC Sync from the Mytouch 3Gs support page. Also make sure to run it as an administrator while being logged in on a admin account
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I downloaded the htc sync software from htc dot com /us/support/t-mobile-mytouch-3g-slide/downloads/ (xda's settings stop me from submitting a link as this is my first post), I then tried to rerun the SuperOneClick and it failed saying "ADB server is incorrect version" or something similar. I copied the ADB.exe from the HTC Sync app directory into the SuperOneClick, and wham bam it worked. Of course the MT3Rooter failed with the same error, so I repeated the copy and I had root.
Thanks for your help everyone, it is very appreciated by this sorta geek.
PS: As a software geek and a 42 year old jerk, it hurts my heart that XDA has to run such nasty anti-spam settings just to keep crap off this forum. Ends up penalizing the users with good intentions. I totally see why it has to be done, and I support the effort, just is sad that it has to be this way.
how do you achieve s-off though? does downgrading, also downgrade your bootloader?
the goldcard app is not working, the site is down to generate keys.
Insanityrains: I have two stupid questions. Is there something I'm missing here? You don't have consecutive numbers for your instructions. Should I follow them in the order you have posted or in the order of the numbers?
Dumb question 2: Where is the download link for the ESPRIMG.zip file?
Thanks for your instructions! I hope it works for me.
UPDATE
I followed the steps to the letter. It worked seamlessly. Thanks insanityrains for putting all this together and the developer who actually figured this out!! However, few things I had to learn by doing it over and over again:
The first part worked awesome! (i.e. rooting and installing 2.1). It will keep saying there were errors and stuff but keep doing what insanityrains says to do.
The second part (installing CM7 with google apps was the hurdle for me): Follow his numbering in post #1 (once again, I'm refering to the second part) to understand what I'm saying below.
Before you begin, you don't need the ESPRIMG file anymore once you have rooted and installed 2.1 (the first part). So delete that file from the root of your SD card. By doing this, you can skip the annoying wait as it tries to reinstall 2.1 on your phone. Now for the two mistakes I did.
1. The first step was a silly mistake, but very much possible for someone to commit. Just rename the file "update" and dont add ".zip" like I did. Everytime I try installing the ROM it kept saying "cannot locate update.zip". I was scratching my head for a few times before I realized the mistake
2. Step #5. It will search for the ESPRIMG file and it is not going to find that. Select "recovery" then
For noobs, dont freak out while doing it. It was scary for me to root the phone. But once I did it fine, it was fun!
so in order to install roms you have to rename them to update zips?
anybody even here anymore?
theres too many outdated rooting guides on here. i already know i cannot achieve s-off now that we accepted the OTA. i already tried to root and it went fine but the clockwork recovery will not work. also when i boot into the 2.1 rom that i downgraded to i see there is no superuser app but it appears i am rooted because most root apps work minus wireless tether. i just want root and to run a semi stock non cm7 type rooted rom. is this possible with s-on or not?
if so can someone point me in the right direction please?
Worked!!!
Thanks insanityrains. Followed the steps and it worked. I would echo comments re: Menu choice for "Recovery" (see updates with fezmonger and ganjagarn).
Again - thanks!
fixxxer2008 said:
anybody even here anymore?
theres too many outdated rooting guides on here. i already know i cannot achieve s-off now that we accepted the OTA. i already tried to root and it went fine but the clockwork recovery will not work. also when i boot into the 2.1 rom that i downgraded to i see there is no superuser app but it appears i am rooted because most root apps work minus wireless tether. i just want root and to run a semi stock non cm7 type rooted rom. is this possible with s-on or not?
if so can someone point me in the right direction please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought someone on here said that you could use clockwork mod but you probably have to put it in, i can't help since I rooted my phone with the original method that was much easier.
Have you tried installing rom manager and letting it flash clockworkmod recovery?
jacewt said:
I thought someone on here said that you could use clockwork mod but you probably have to put it in, i can't help since I rooted my phone with the original method that was much easier.
Have you tried installing rom manager and letting it flash clockworkmod recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i was working on it for a client, i gave up. thanks anyways.
Hi,
I try to downgrade my current A500 on HC 3.2 to 3.01 with any success.
I follow to tutorial based on "Vache" tips available at http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1276227
I have done all the step, but when i launch PBJ20upgrade.exe as administrator, it ask me to plug again my iconia, it display the current installed version and version who will be replace, click on "Next" button and... progress bar doesn't move.. the iconia switch off (black screen). I have try many times and always the same result.
My current configuration is :
Kernel : 2.6.36.3+ - build : Acer_A500_7.006.01_COM_GEN1
My computer is on Windows 7 64bits.
Any ideas ?
Have a nice XDA Christmas.
Method 1 can take up to 10 minutes or longer to get action. Perhaps you didn't wait long enough.
Try Method 2. It's even easier.
Not sure if it matters, but set your USB Debugging to on. Settings/Applications/development
USB Debugging is set to on.
When you said "Method 1 can take up to 10 minutes or longer to get action." it's mean before seing the progress bar moving ?
In any case i will check method 2 but just a little bit afraid with the " gives errors and crashes but you only need it to root and install CWM"
One small question, with STEP 2, it will replace the current HC 3.2.1 by an unstable 3.01.
Let imagine after the procedure (root + CWM) i would like to put a ROM STOCK as my iconia was delivered, i think it's possible no (and where to find it because i have no img of my current version because not rooted).
And if i do it (install rom stock) it will be updated to HC 3.2.1 with OTA no ? Root and CWM will be lost again in this case ?
Thx for reply.
aranna said:
USB Debugging is set to on.
When you said "Method 1 can take up to 10 minutes or longer to get action." it's mean before seing the progress bar moving ?
In any case i will check method 2 but just a little bit afraid with the " gives errors and crashes but you only need it to root and install CWM"
One small question, with STEP 2, it will replace the current HC 3.2.1 by an unstable 3.01.
Let imagine after the procedure (root + CWM) i would like to put a ROM STOCK as my iconia was delivered, i think it's possible no (and where to find it because i have no img of my current version because not rooted).
And if i do it (install rom stock) it will be updated to HC 3.2.1 with OTA no ? Root and CWM will be lost again in this case ?
Thx for reply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No Problem. Remember, sometime, systems will reboot. And sometimes, you have to wait. I cannot tell you that this is happening with your case. But, it is best to wait some time.
Both methods, I believe, will give you an unstable version of 3.0
Yes, both methods, will replace the current operating system. But, between errors, it will allow you to run the iconia root, and run the acer recovery. I don't think anybody has failed to do this, except for idiots who can't follow instructions.
I would suggest you download these, and put them to SD before starting the procedure. It saves having to get them from the net. Also, go ahead and download a rom you want to try. Might as well do all things at the same time.
True, basically, you will be without a stable recovery. Which is why, after you install Acer recovery, and install the recovery part, it is necessary to make a backup of the current system. Better an unstable one, than no system at all
Then, do your boot to recovery, system off, hold vol- and pwr till you see the text in the top left corner, then release.
Nav is by the vol - and +. Pwr to select an option.
Wipe;
1. User data
2. Cache Partition
3. Go to Advanced, wipe delvak cache
Go back to previous screen, and select Install From Zip, choose zip to install, and select your rom
Wait 10 minutes or so.
Now, when the rom boots, and it will, if you get several error mesages, then, you should reboot to recovery, only this time, goto mounts, and format the partitions. Usually, you don't have to do this. But, sometimes, traces of the opld rom remain behind. But, I think you will be ok with the previous procedures.
And, you're a good boy, as you ask questions before you do things
Spasibo bolchoï
Hi again,
Sorry but i have a stupid question. Based on solution 2 for downgrading (by using a SD card) if it's so simple why we don't use it to flash any ROM like Thor or Tabonnay ? just by placing the "update.zip" file on the SD card and boot on recovery stock ROM.
I understand that "rooting" a tablets allow to have full access on it (all partition) but why it's necessary to replace recovery tools by CWM ?
Sorry for this stupid questions but i love to understand what i'am doing.
Hi again, so i have done the downgrade with step 2 but have some issue.
V 3.0.1 is installed and iconia root 1.3 too
concerning "itsmagic" where to get it (when i should put adb push itsmagic /data/local)
Second, for the second part of tutorial http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126364, i need to type some bash command on the tablets, but how to ?
aranna said:
spasibo bolchoï
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
пожаловать
---------- Post added at 04:40 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:38 PM ----------
aranna said:
Hi again, so i have done the downgrade with step 2 but have some issue.
V 3.0.1 is installed and iconia root 1.3 too
concerning "itsmagic" where to get it (when i should put adb push itsmagic /data/local)
Second, for the second part of tutorial http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126364, i need to type some bash command on the tablets, but how to ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easier to download Acer Recovery from the http Market, and install it on your tab. Then flash the Thor Recovery.
---------- Post added at 04:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:40 PM ----------
aranna said:
Hi again,
Sorry but i have a stupid question. Based on solution 2 for downgrading (by using a SD card) if it's so simple why we don't use it to flash any ROM like Thor or Tabonnay ? just by placing the "update.zip" file on the SD card and boot on recovery stock ROM.
I understand that "rooting" a tablets allow to have full access on it (all partition) but why it's necessary to replace recovery tools by CWM ?
Sorry for this stupid questions but i love to understand what i'am doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To make a long story short, it won't work.
Basically, the OTA updates have a special script to run, also, they update the bootloader of the tab, which of course is more or less off limits to use poor people Not to mention the updates are "officially signed" by acer, to allow this method. And I am just guessing on this, but probably pretty close.
Anybody else have anything to add?
I suppose, a lot of time could be invested in creating a custom rom using this method, but it seems more simple to use the "recovery" method.
So it's mean that i don't need CWM and itsmagic but just "Acer recovery" ? i can cancel this part on STEP 2 ? :
5. then install CWM from thor's site (there you can find the latest version) or use Acer Recovery Installer from the Market, or look at the original thread here
6. Boot into CWM and flash whatever ROM you like!
The main problem with the market, i can connect but each time i use the tab keyboard i get an error message as describe on the unstable HC 3.01, is there a way to have an APK version (i can upload it on my microSD card).
Thx a lot.
aranna said:
So it's mean that i don't need CWM and itsmagic but just "Acer recovery" ? i can cancel this part on STEP 2 ? :
5. then install CWM from thor's site (there you can find the latest version) or use Acer Recovery Installer from the Market, or look at the original thread here
6. Boot into CWM and flash whatever ROM you like!
The main problem with the market, i can connect but each time i use the tab keyboard i get an error message as describe on the unstable HC 3.01, is there a way to have an APK version (i can upload it on my microSD card).
Thx a lot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that keyboard is a killer and causes a lot of issues. I heard where if you mess around with the keyboard settings (a lot), it will actually settle down and work with few errors (but looks bad)
Yes, skip the adb stuff
Use your computer to access the android market web site. Search for acer recovery
Download, put it on your sd for your tab, and install it using any file manager app. Then start the app, and install the Thor Recovery. You can get Thors recent recovery later, so it's not necessary right now.
Acer recovery is a tool that makes it easy for people who do not know how to use adb.
If you can't get it done that way, then you'll have to use adb.
The directories specified in the commands, are the locations they will push the files to. The img to the sd, and the it's magic to /data/local
Never used it myself, so I am not so sure where you are supposed to place the files to begin with. I would guess in the same directory as adb.
Thx for help, when you said "Then start the app, and install the Thor Recovery", Thor Recovery is included on the A.R.I apk file if i understand well but not the last version.
2) I donwload a ROM like TABOONAY or THOR on my microSD card
3) Just after, i reboot on recovery mode by using A.R.I
4) From CWM i select the image located on my microSD card to flash my tablet
right ?
aranna said:
Thx for help, when you said "Then start the app, and install the Thor Recovery", Thor Recovery is included on the A.R.I apk file if i understand well but not the last version.
2) I donwload a ROM like TABOONAY or THOR on my microSD card
3) Just after, i reboot on recovery mode by using A.R.I
4) From CWM i select the image located on my microSD card to flash my tablet
right ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, AFTER, you run the acer recovery, install, start app, and install the recovery. Should be the only choice you have
After it does it's thing. Then power off. Then, hold Vol - then PWR button, until you see text in the upper left corner of the tab, then release both buttons.
It will boot to the recovery menu.
Now, it's ok to copy the rom you want to use to the sd before doing all this. No problem.
With Taboonay, I would look at the procedure, as I believe you have to have 2.1 installed first, before upgrading to 2.2. (not sure why he decided to do it that way. Seems like a pain in the neck. I used to run 2.0 for awhile.
Harkon, is also a nice smooth rom.
Thor's V14 is also good (a500 only)
Then, very important. When you boot to recovery, go ahead and make a recovery image of your current rom (yeah, so it's unstable). Always most important to do this, as sometimes, a flash can go bad. Not often, but, better to have a recovery image to go back to, even if it's unstable.
Next, do your 3 wipes. No, not the toilet
1. User data
2. Cach partition
3. Go to Advanced, then dalvek cache.
After it's done, then, you can go back to the main menu, and select Install zip from SD
Then select your rom.
It takes awhile, so have a beer
And ... MAKE SURE you have at least 60% charge on your tablet!!! Before doing things.
People forget, and,,,, it ain't pretty...when your tab shuts down in the middle of a flash.
Nice, totaly clear for me right now. Many thx to you
And to finish, 3 last question (next beer will be paid by me of course )
1) If right now, at my current step (only donwgrade done to 3.0.1 at this moment) i do a factory reset on me main menu of my tablet, what version i will have ? Current unstable version or my previous HC 3.2.1 ?
2) When you said "Ok, AFTER, you run the acer recovery, install, start app, and install the recovery." by install the recovery you mean CWM provide on the A.R.I, there is a special menu on ARI to install it or it will be installed automatically during ARI APK installation ?
3) When you speak about "and select Install zip from SD" the ROM should be on the internal memory of the tablet or on the external (microSD card) ?
One thing that i don't understand yet is the internal structure of the partition on the tablet. As i understand, for the moment i just made a downgrade from HC 3.2.1 to 3.0.1, but we have the possibility to do a factory reset, so i think when we do that, the iconia will restore an img file or iso file from a specific partition.
So if i understand, on my current state, if i do a factory reset as usually, the HC 3.2.1 will be replaced no ?
In any case, thx a lot for time spend by you to explain me all this... this is the Russian POWER
aranna said:
Nice, totaly clear for me right now. Many thx to you
And to finish, 3 last question (next beer will be paid by me of course )
1) If right now, at my current step (only donwgrade done to 3.0.1 at this moment) i do a factory reset on me main menu of my tablet, what version i will have ? Current unstable version or my previous HC 3.2.1 ?
2) When you said "Ok, AFTER, you run the acer recovery, install, start app, and install the recovery." by install the recovery you mean CWM provide on the A.R.I, there is a special menu on ARI to install it or it will be installed automatically during ARI APK installation ?
3) When you speak about "and select Install zip from SD" the ROM should be on the internal memory of the tablet or on the external (microSD card) ?
One thing that i don't understand yet is the internal structure of the partition on the tablet. As i understand, for the moment i just made a downgrade from HC 3.2.1 to 3.0.1, but we have the possibility to do a factory reset, so i think when we do that, the iconia will restore an img file or iso file from a specific partition.
So if i understand, on my current state, if i do a factory reset as usually, the HC 3.2.1 will be replaced no ?
In any case, thx a lot for time spend by you to explain me all this... this is the Russian POWER
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Do not do a factory reset. Honestly, I do not know what will happen at this point.
2. The Acer recovery, comes with Thor's recovery program. I think, that is the only one that comes with it. Technically, you can use it to flash roms, but, I advise using the recovery built into the tab afterwards. Usually, this program will go away after flashing a rom.
3. Always in the "root" of the SD (the first file you see when you look at your sd with a file manager).
4. If you're in Moscow, I will take that free beer
Not sure exactly what will happen when you do a "factory reset" I would suspect, the same OS your device came with, but I really don't know. Never had to do it. And, I see a lot of issues when other people try it.
so, today i have installed Rom Stock, Thor and Taboonay... all those has been tested and at the end Taboonay has win (Thor is pretty good but the fact that tab is detected as ASUS is not so good for me).
Many many many thanks to you Moscow Desire for you help concerning this, all is ok for me right now and more clear.
last question, if i want to update current version of CWM (provided by ARI) how to do it ?
I have download "update-recovery-thor2002ro-rev1.3.4.zip" i think i should use CWM itself (on recovery mode) to update it ? right ?
Have a nice christmas !!!!!
Good work. Glad things worked out for you!
I've been lazy, and haven't upgraded my recovery, but I believe you just place the Thorupdate.zip on the SD like you did with Taboonay, and boot to recovery, and flash just like your rom. But really, I haven't done this yet. Maybe this weekend.
Shouldn't be any need to do wipes.
Also, if you want to run a different Kernel on Taboonay, Then you need only to wipe Delvik cache before flashing it.
Merry X-Mas to you as well, but here, we celebrate New Years.
I know it for christman, i work sometime in Russia (near Moscow). Normally for you it's hollydays since yesterday, very lucky people in Russia.
Happy new year to all XDA members !!!!
FYI - if you do a Factory Reset with the unstable 3.01 rom installed, it puts the CURRENT OS back on, this being unstable 3.01. You have COMPLETELY replaced the other OS. This will happen whether you are running a custom OS, or official OS.
You can only have one OS on your tab at a time, unless you do the dual boot but that opens up a whhole new can of worms...
In the process of updating information for ICS update and custom ROMs, please hold tight!
A lot of folks have been coming in with newly purchased TF101's lately, which is AWESOME, it means the community will go on longer than the expected life of the device probably, since the TF201 and TF700 have come out and are seeking to replace our beloved TF, this is good news that people still buy the OG Transformer.
That said, there have been the same problems posted by new users, over and over, and sure there are guides for just about everything. But why not one on..just...EVERYTHING?
Here we go, troubleshoot problems and learn your device, the noob way! The EPIC TF101 THREAD BEGINS!
All the typical disclaimers apply, if you mess your stuff up, it is your fault not mine. I did not discover any of these methods, develop any of these tools, or do anything else but compile it all in one epic post. This should be everything you need to know as a noob, I do not take credit for anything, except for making it all easily accessible to those who are unwilling/unable to spend the hours searching that I did. In other words, I did a lot of work for you, but others had done the work for me first. Full credit to them.
What is ROOTING? And why do it?
So you bought a new TF, and you want to root it? Or you want to know what rooting is, for that matter? Rooting is a method of obtaining what is called 'Root Access' to your device, giving you control of it. The 'Root' is the parent directory of your device's internal memory, where the system files are stored. Generally this is kept from your access, you will need to get your device 'rooted' in order to change the system. Once rooted, you will have an app installed called 'Superuser' which will selectively grant applications permission to alter or access your root directory. This method differs on every device, but don't worry- we have a very easy device to root.
VERY IMPORTANT! Do NOT use any of the tools here WHILE YOUR DOCK IS PLUGGED IN!! All these are for use with the TF101 unit BY ITSELF! Please don't brick your device or mess something up by trying it with the dock plugged in!
There have traditionally been several ways to accomplish this for our device, as new applications and tools are developed to make it easier it has gotten to be a very simple process. Which method you use will depend on what SBK version (Secure Boot Key) Transformer you have, and also that model's firmware version. Your firmware version can be located by going to Settings>About Tablet. Current version is 8.6.5.21 (TF101) or 8.6.6.23 (TF101G). When either firmware version (also referred to as the 'stock ROM' sometimes) can be used, it will be listed similar to '8.6.x.19', where x can be 5 or 6 for TF101 or TF101G, respectively.
KNOW YOUR SBK VERSION
As a TF owner looking to mod your device, you need to know that there are multiple SBK versions, primarily SBK1 and SBK2. There may possibly be other versions to come even. All you need to know is, that as of right now, SBK1 is the only model that can utilize a tool called NVFlash to UNBRICK your device if you mess it up too badly, and it is difficult to tell which SBK version you have. In order to find out, there are a few tools out there- one of them is for mac only, called SBKDetect found here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1232612
Another is primarily for Linux, but saavy Windows users can always boot from a Linux live CD on their machines to use it, called SBKDetect v2, here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1290503
The other way, if you are like me, and don't have Linux-abilities at the time of this writing (I'm working on that), you can always just GO FOR IT and try to flash a modded ROM via NVFlash. If you are SBK1 it will succeed. If not, it will fail. No harm done. Of course that means skipping ahead of a lot of learning first, so it is not advised IMO. It also means that if you DO have an SBK1 tablet, you just wiped all your data. It is not absolutely necessary to determine which SBK you have in order to root and mod your device.
A hit-or-miss way of detecting your SBK version is by looking at your device's serial number, located on the bottom of the device on a sticker. It will take the form of:
B70KAS638075
The ONLY digits you need to know are the FIRST THREE. Older models are SBK1. Manufacturing started at Bxx, and has gone to Cxx this year. All Cxx serial numbers will be SBK2. In fact it was in the middle of the B70 manufacturing that they changed the SBK version, so if you are B60, B50, B40 etc..you are sure to be SBK1. If you are B80, B90, C10, etc, you are sure to be SBK2. B70 owners, it's a coin toss. You must use one of the other methods to determine it.
The only thing that differs between SBK1 tablets and SBK2 tablets is the use of NVFlash. SBK2 cannot use NVFlash, so if you end up botching both your recovery and your ROM, and cannot boot into either, then you are SCREWED, so I would suggest reading everything before attempting to mod your device if you are an SBK2 owner.
NVFlash and APX mode
This was an early method used to root and flash recovery/roms, and is still a very useful application to have saved on a disk somewhere in the event that you own an SBK1, as it renders your tablet practically unbrickable. It can be found here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1123429
To use it you must enter APX mode on your TF101. This is tricky and confuses many users. The procedure is;
1. Press and hold volume UP and POWER buttons at the same time (it doesn't matter if the TF101 is on or off, if it is on, simply wait until it shuts off before proceding).
2. HOLD these buttons for approximately SIX SECONDS.
3. Plug TF101 into PC and listen for it to chime that it has detected it, it should load drivers and device will be listed in Right Cick>Computer/Properties/Device Manager/USB Universal Serial Bus Controller (or similar) as NVIDIA, not as ASUS.
4. If it does not, power on the TF and try again until it does.
NOTE: This is the only way to know if it is in APX mode as the screen remains powered off completely.
Once in APX mode now you can use NVFlash tool, place the system, boot, and recovery .img files into the root of the folder you extract NVFlash into and execute the download.bat file. If at any point the flash fails, this likely means you are SBK2.
ADB Mode
This stands for Android Debugging Bridge. This is not to be confused with APX mode, which is a separate thing entirely. To learn more about your device's ADB mode, see this excellent thread here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1071584
Another quick guide for ADB can be found here:
http://www.droidforums.net/forum/droid-hacks/6865-how-use-adb-all-commands-options.html
(sorry for the off-site link, trying to keep it as xda pure as possible!)
Razorclaw Root Tool
Razorclaw is by far my favorite method of rooting for the TF, it can be found here;
http://androidroot.mobi/2011/11/14/introducing-razorclaw-v1/
It does not matter what SBK version you have to use Razorclaw, that is why I prefer this method of rooting.. HOWEVER, it does require you to be using an older firmware version though. If you are on version 8.6.x.21 or above, you cannot use razorclaw. It works best on firmware 8.6.x.19. You simply install the app and follow the instructions (Root me nao!). It is a one click, native rooting tool.
If you are not on this firmware version and razorclaw will not work, there are options. You can either roll back your firmware version, the method is located here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1417006
If you are unsuccessful or want to try another way, you can use Nachoroot or ViperMOD.
Nachoroot Root Tool
This is one of the newer root tools, it is for all firmwares and all SBK versions, and can be found here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1427838
Nachoroot uses the ADB (Android Debugging Bridge) via a command prompt or terminal, all necessary drivers must be installed.
I cannot personally get this method to work because my PC will not install the drivers properly, and since I don't need the tool any longer, I must admit I've never used it, thus my bias towards Razorclaw. So, if you are having similar driver issues, rolling back firmware and using RC might be quicker and more painless.
ViperMOD Root Tool
ViperMOD is another method, similar to and related to Nachoroot, in that it uses the PC to root your TF101 and will need the appropriate drivers installed. The main difference being that this method will install Superuser as well. The other major difference is that while Nachoroot is done with a command dialogue, ViperMOD is done with a much simpler command interface (choose a number from a list of options rather than typing out commands). Interestingly enough, both of these methods work on both the TF101 and the TF201, and both methods appeared about the same time (posted on January 4th 2012). ViperMOD and Nachoroot represent the most recent methods for gaining root on the TF101. ViperMOD is unique that it has a feature to unroot your device as well, though you will need to have the stock ROM and recovery files available to completely return to stock. Find out more about ViperMOD here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1427125
I also cannot attest to the use of ViperMOD personally, I have used other methods, but many users have reported it quite simple to root with.
A quick breakdown;
Razorclaw, Nachoroot and ViperMOD will ONLY ROOT your device. No data will be wiped and you will have to install recovery later. In the case of Nachoroot, you will have to download superuser from the market, Razorclaw and ViperMOD installs it for you.
NVFlash WILL WIPE EVERYTHING! So understand that it will rewrite your TF101 internal memory competely and install a rooted ROM (or whatever you tell it to) on your device, as well as a boot and recovery image.
REGARDLESS OF THE ROOTING METHOD YOU CHOOSE, PLEASE READ THAT METHOD'S INSTRUCTIONS VERY CAREFULLY!!!
[Q]How do I know if I am rooted?
[A] Simply check within your app drawer for the superuser application (or download it from the market if using Nachoroot), to verify it works, download titanium backup and begin a batch backup and see if it asks permission, and if the batch completes. If you are not rooted, either try your first method again or try an alternate method.
Tip: Immediately after rooting you should back up your system with Titanium Backup, skip ahead to that section to learn how before moving on.
Recovery Mode
The stock recovery mode on the TF101 shows one of two screens; a green android in the middle of the screen with gears turning inside it, or the same android with a yellow triangle with an (!) inside it instead. The gears obviously mean it is working (flashing firmware), the (!) means something has gone wrong (no file found, flash failed). To enter recovery mode, you need to press and HOLD Volume DOWN and POWER when the device is powered OFF. As soon as the screen comes on, RELEASE THE POWER BUT HOLD THE VOLUME STILL. You will see white letters appear in the upper left corner of the screen, it is now okay to release the Volume DOWN button and quickly (within 5 seconds) press the Volume UP button to enter recovery mode. There are also applications, such as Reboot to Recovery, available on the market, that will allow you to reboot your device with one click into recovery mode without having to toggle your power/volume buttons.
About Stock Recovery Mode
The stock recovery mode is absolutely required to install official Asus OTA (Over The Air) updates. Unless your device is unrooted with a stock recovery mode, you will not be able to install any OTA updates, this includes ICS!! It can also be used to install (or RE-install if it were) your STOCK ROM (only official, digitally signed files will be accepted by the stock recovery to flash over the firmware, no modded roms will work). The method for doing this is outlined in the link for rolling back your firmware version above but I will summarize;
Recovery mode searches your external SD card ROOT DIRECTORY(and the internal memory's cache directory, but this is not useful for any practical reason for you) for these Asus files. The files must be named either;
EP101_SDUPDATE.zip
or
XX_user-epad-Z.Z.Z.ZZ.zip (X = firmware region stamp, WW, US, DE, etc, and Z - firmware version, 8.6.5.19, 8.6.6.21 etc)
I personally find the second configuration to work best. If stock recovery finds a file named appropriately and signed with the proper digital signature it will install it, and you will see gears turning. Otherwise; (!). Remember, it has to be on the SD card in the ROOT, not in a folder or it won't find it.
CWM Recovery Mode
ClockWorkMod Recovery mode replaces your stock android recovery mode, and gives you control of;
Flashing (installing) ROMs, recovery, themes and app packs, patches, kernels and more
Wiping cache, dalvik cache, system, data, etc
Backup and Restore features
Advanced features you probably won't need like fixing permissions and mounting partitions etc.
The important thing to know is if you want to be able to change ROMs right from your device, you need this. In order to install it on the TF, you can use an app called RecoveryInstaller, located here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1346180
It is a one-click app just like Razorclaw, download and a single click will install CWM for you, though it may be an older version it will work fine to install the most recent version, directly from CWM once you enter it the first time. You will need to give it superuser permission as well. The newest CWM for the TF101 is called ROGUE XM and it is available here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1446019
Simply place the newest version on your SD card where you can find it, and use the 'install from SD card' option to navigate to the new version file and select it, which will flash the recovery..then you will need to reboot.
CWM Recovery can also be installed when flashing your device from NVFlash, and the NVFlash versions of ROMs almost always contain the most recent versions of the CWM recovery as well, thus making an NVFlash a one-step procedure (flashes both ROM and recovery at same time). The risk of the one-step procedure is if you are using corrupted images or something unexpected occurs you may end up BOTCHING both recovery and ROM at the same time..of course- if you are SBK1 anyways, just reflash it with a different ROM and it will be fixed.
Once you have installed the latest CWM recovery now you will want to start flashing ROMs and Kernels. I will not be posting links to the custom ROMs and Kernels because there are too many of them, that will be your homework.
Custom ROMs
We are blessed to have some great devs working on our humble TF101. That said, the procedure to flash a ROM through CWM is simple;
1: Download desired ROM and place into your external SD card somewhere you will be able to find it, it doesn't matter.
2: Boot into recovery and go to Backup and Restore and make a backup file. This is commonly referred to as a 'Nandroid' backup, and will backup everything from your ROM to your Kernel to user files.
3: Once backed up, proceed to factory reset and wipe cache partition and dalvik cache, located in the 'advanced' menu.
4: Install from SD card, navigate to your directory and find your ROM (ONLY FLASH THINGS THAT ARE MADE SPECIFICALLY FOR THE TF101! Be sure it is compatible with your device!) and select it, scroll to yes...read and follow instructions. Tapdance and sing ABC's while making some breakfast- and you are done!
5: Reboot device
Please be sure to flash only files that are meant to be flashed via CWM, as some ROMs will also have an NVFlash version, which will not work in CWM.
The Stock ROM currently provided with the TF101 is Android 3.2.1, which is called Honeycomb (HC) which is exclusively for tablets, we are all awaiting the release of Android 4.0 commonly known as Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) which will merge the operating systems used on phones and tablets. Asus has said it will be out soon, so don't ask when it is coming! To learn more about the different Android versions, read this;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_version_history
I would suggest also to anyone wanting to modify their Android device to understand the history of Android itself and what it is, here;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_(operating_system)
Kernels
The kernel is the underbelly, the brain of the ROM. The kernel is what tells the hardware what to do when you interact with the software of the ROM. Most ROMs, I dare say almost every ROM unless specifically noted, does NOT come with it's own kernel but uses the kernel you have installed now on the device, unless it is a stock ROM, in which case most of them DO have kernels included. You want to be sure if what you are flashing has a kernel included or not, and you can always go back to another kernel version if you like, but understand that the OS will behave differently with different kernels. For example, if you wish to enable certain functions at the kernel-level, like overclocking, voodoo sound, etc, then you have to flash a customized kernel.
If you flash a custom kernel, then report your bugs to the developer of the kernel, not the ROM, as most bugs are produced by the kernel.
The procedure to flash a kernel is the same as with flashing a ROM, though you need not factory restore your device before installing, although every developer will agree that it is probably best to have what is called a 'clean install', where you would factory reset the device, flash your ROM, and flash your Kernel, and then restore your apps and information. How do you do that you say?
Titanium Backup
Titanium Backup is an app that is pretty self explainitory- it backs up all system files, data (this includes contacts, settings, call logs, etc) user apps, basically saves your state ON TOP of your ROM, where as the CWM Backup (commonly called a 'Nandroid') is the FULL ROM, Titanium Backup will only restore your settings and apps ON TOP of the ROM once installed. Therefore, you can backup all apps, safely factory reset. Install a clean ROM and Kernel together and then restore your data on top of them. This keeps your user files from either being accidentally overwritten or otherwise interfering with the installation of the ROM/Kernel whatever else you wish to flash.
IF YOU SKIPPED AHEAD READ THIS
Titanium Backup can be found on the market for free, if you like it, buy the paid version.
To backup and restore, simply press the settings softkey and choose 'batch' and select the appropriate action with caution. Press the 'RUN' button for the action of your choice and you will be prompted with a checklist of apps and data to run the batch on. Select which files you want or select all if it is your first time using the app and confirm the action. You will need to give Titanium Backup Superuser permission and make sure you have 'Unknown Sources' checked as well as 'Debugging Mode' checked in your settings/applications menu.
Ok, now go back to 'Recovery Mode' section and keep reading..
Also understand that if you are moving from a version that you have backed up in which apps will not be useable in the version you are moving to, the will not work either. For example, if you flash an ICS ROM and then save the ICS-only apps with titanium backup, and then try to move back to honeycomb or gingerbread (if you have a phone like I do) these apps will likely not install or if they do will FC (force close) constantly. Similar things can happen with user data, call logs from one dailer might not be compatible with an older version etc, so expect there to be instances where you have to selectively install apps one at a time to see if it causes bugs, testing the device for buggs, and uninstalling the app/data before proceding with your restore if it does.
Return to Stock
EDIT: While the below represents a review of how we used to unroot, I have now learned that merely flashing the stock ROM provided by Asus on their website will flash the recovery as well, and that there is a minor difference between the recovery img that came on the device stock versus the recovery img that comes loaded in the Asus firmware packages. If nothing else, the graphics are different, but I suspect that there could be other changes as well. To best unroot the device, simply watch and follow the video in the link.
Outdated info;
So, you played around, and you decided it was time to go back stock for that update, or maybe you just liked it better, or you wanted to give it to your grandma but knew Revolver was above her head- whatever the reason, you want to start fresh. The procedure requires you to get the Stock recovery image and a stock ROM. Luckily the stock ROMs are available on Asus' website, the recovery image isn't as easy to find, it is located here;
http://theunlockr.com/2011/11/28/how-to-unroot-and-remove-cwm-recovery-on-asus-transformer/
(Note: The recovery file is not region-specific, therefore it does not matter what version TF101 you have, it is one of the few 'universal' files for this device.
CAUTION: Unrooting with this procedure will only rewrite your system files on the system partition, if you have files located in your root directory that are user-created files that are not part of the system, these files will remain after unrooting, though you will not be able to view them as they are in the root directory, if you root the device again they will be visible. If selling your device or returning for an exchange and you are unrooting it, make sure to manually delete any files/folders that you created in your root directory and do a factory restore with CWM before flashing over your recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Procedure:
Click HERE to watch my UNROOTING How-to video.
There should also be a distinction made here between unrooting and breaking root access, while breaking root access will prevent you from having root access to your device, it does not return your device to stock. For example, deleting your superuser application and su binary files can 'break your root' as it is referred to. Yet, in order to effectively unroot your device, you should return the device to it's 100% stock configuration. If you are giving the tab to your grandma or little sister, breaking root is probably enough. If you want to return the device or sell it on XDA, you should probably return to stock completely.
Now that you have read all of this (hopefully) here is the shortcut you wished you had;
My HOW TO ROOT video (Part one)
So, now you are a BUTTFLIPPIN' PRO, you can root, you can flash recovery mode, ROMs, even Kernels, and you can flash stock files from your SD card so you can unroot and return to stock if you want. What if something goes wrong? What if you want to expand your knowledge?
Well this is what we all fear, this section will attempt to address possible outcomes of bad flashes, corrupt ROM images, bad recovery images, etc. as well as help you diagnose your problem and determine whether you need an RMA or to ask for help in the forum.
[Q] My screen won't come on! Help!
[A] In order to determine what the problem is, first try to power on normally, if that does not work try to power on with the USB device plugged into a PC, if you hear it connect you unfortuntely likely have a screen malfunction. If not, try to enter APX mode and listen for notification of connecting to your PC, if still no notification, try charging your tablet overnight and see if it is over-discharged, mine did this once and scared the CRAP out of me, I thought it was bricked, after 10 minutes of fooing with it a battery warning finally popped onto the screen for 1 second before shutting off again. Repeat the previous steps after 24 hours of charging (if TF does not power on on its' own). If none of these solutions work, try powering on and listening for the camera to 'click', if you do not hear this, then it is very likely you have a brick or malfunctioning device.
[Q] My dock drains very fast..why?
[A] This is a problem with old firmware and certain docks. The docks themselves were manufactured with hardware that prevents the updated firmware from being installed in the dock itself, which results in being unable to change the battery consumption configuration. The dock was originally designed to keep the TF awake so that a quick key press would wake it easily, but this resulted in battery drain, when Asus updated the firmware they realized some docks simply needed to be RMA'd. To test yours;
1. Make sure you are updated to the latest firmware for the dock (in Settings?About Tablet), latest firmware is EP101-0213.
2. In Settings>Screen make sure "MobileDock Battery saving mode" is checked.
3. Press the power button on the TF101 to turn the screen off, then press a key on the keyboard (not the mouse buttons).
If any key wakes the TF, then you have the defective dock and must be RMA'd. However if it does not wake, and you still have severe drain, try to resolve it by shutting off background services and checking to see if drain is bad without the dock as well. If it is still draining, as mine has done previously, contact Asus for an RMA.
[Q] My dock is making a strange squealing sound??
[A] Yes, I received one that did this myself, and returned it to the store I purchased it. As far as I could tell it only presented an annoyance, but others reported the issue and suspected that it might have been connected with some people's battery drain issue, so I returned mine as you probably should as well.
[Q] My screen has light bleeding around the edges..is this common?
[A] Unfortunately, yes, light bleed on these devices is far too common. You can try to return the device and get a better one, depending on the severity of the light bleed, and unfortunately it seems every device has it's quirks, you may end up with one that doesn't have much light bleed but has another problem..
[Q] My case creaks, is this normal?
[A] Yes, unfortunately, the plastic backplate has notches that are supposed to affix into the bezel, and sometimes these come loose. However, some people have reported being able to 'snap' it into place again within the bezel, others had to remove the bezel and backplate partially to resolve the issue- others just ignore it as it is only cosmetic.
[Q] My Transformer won't charge! Help!
[A] There could be a few reasons for this experience- the connector is a proprietary connector, and the wires inside can be easily tangled and snapped according to user experience- to verify that the cable works try plugging the device while powered on into the PC and listen for audio confirmation. If your cable is working, but the tablet doesn't seem to charge, you can try to plug in the dock to see if the led on it lights up (unfortunately the TF unit has no charging indicator except for when powered on). The charging adapter itself sometimes has connection problems inside it, and some users have reported success in simply enclosing the charger in a ziplock bag and placing it in the freezer for several hours. I don't know why this works for some, but it does. If it doesn't for you, however, you may need to order a new power adapter from Asus, or you can make your own here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1087321
[Q] My TF keeps booting and booting but never loads into my ROM..
[A] This is called a 'bootloop', and depending on how far it loads can tell you the severity of the boot loop. First thing to do, is to attempt to boot into recovery. Unless you have an SBK1 tab, this is going to be the only way you will be able to stop this. If not, you have a soft-brick. Eee Pad logo loads and reboots after this, then you have a problem with the ROM itself not wanting to boot (corrupt image, files missing, etc), and usually reflashing your previous ROM without wiping will cure the issue. Sometimes the issue is within the ROM, settings that lock up your device while initializing. If it makes it to the boot animation and reloads, there is a possibility that it is a setting within a kernel if you have a custom kernel installed, try another one, if you aren't running a custom kernel it could be user settings and a factory restore may resolve the issue, and if that fails try another ROM. If the TF will not go into recovery mode and reboots within 5-10 seconds from powering on, you might have a major problem with your system in which case only NVFlash is likely to help.
[Q] I keep getting FC's and bugs..(OR) Do I need to wipe to install...?
[A] Making sure you wipe the correct partitions before you flash new software is vital to making sure it functions properly. This is your necessary wiping procedure, although always best to have a clean install as previously stated;
Nature of the flash| Wipe cache? Wipe Dalvik? Factory Reset?
Clean ROM Flash = YES YES YES
Kernel Flash = YES YES NO
App Pack Flash = YES YES NO
Theme Flash = YES NO NO
ROM Re-flash = NO NO NO
Recovery Flash = NO NO NO
Nandroid Restore = NO NO NO
(Will work on getting this more graphlike after dinner )
Of course always better safe than sorry, and unless you are trying to preserve user apps and data while flashing a kernel or theme then it is always best to reinstall everything after a clean wipe to avoid orphan files and other messy possible errors.
[Q] I can't get into recovery! Help!
[A] The only time you really need to start worrying about not being able to get into recovery is if your ROM also will not load, and vice versa. Since you can simply use the RecoveryInstaller app to fix your broken recovery, similarly if your TF will boot into recovery mode but NOT into the ROM you simply flash (or re-flash) your previous ROM to restore your OS. For this reason, when wishing to update BOTH ROM and recovery, DO NOT FLASH BOTH AT ONCE WITHOUT CONFIRMING THE FIRST FLASH WORKED!
My general rule is to flash my recovery mode first, and then flash my ROM, this is true whether going forward in versions or rolling back to older versions. This way, as soon as you are done flashing and restart (simply holding Volume DOWN as it reboots on its own is enough to initiate recovery mode, be sure to then press Volume UP), you will know if your flash was a success and can rest easy as you flash your ROM, if done the other way around you have to boot into your OS to confirm the flash worked and then reboot back into recovery. If your recovery flash fails, simply allow the OS to load, load recovery installer again and try again.
In the case in which your ROM or recovery will not load, again, your only hope is that you are an SBK1 device and can restore your device via NVFlash.
[Q] Help! My buttons (volume, power) don't work!
[A] Unfortunately this has been discussed quite a bit, sometimes it is related to poor manufacturing, or user damage, or even a poor RMA service. In this case you have only two options- you can try to RMA it, or you can try to tear down the TF101 yourself to try and repair it. It isn't advisable if you can get it repaired under warranty, but if not, you can find discussion with photos of a teardown of the unit here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1109928
[Q] How do I edit the files in my root directory?
[A] The File Explorer app provided by Asus by design will not allow you to access the root directory, you must use an app, like Root Explorer. In order to change or delete files directly from this app, you will need to make sure the root is mounted as R/W (readable/writeable) as opposed to R/O (Read Only), there will be an option to 'mount R/W' if it is mounted currently as R/O, and vice versa.
[Q] How do I remove Asus' Pre-Installed apps (Bloatware)?
[A]While you can simply delete the app file with your Root Explorer, this may not delete all user data. You could download a tool called Root Uninstaller from the Android Market, or you can use the functions in Titanium Backup to run batch uninstalls, or just 'deselect all' and delete one at a time.
[Q] How do I get back my Asus or Google apps after flashing a modded ROM?
[A]GApps and Asus apps generally are not included with many custom ROMs for copyright reasons, but GApps can be found here;
http://goo-inside.me/gapps/
Asus apps can be found in Gnufabios' package 'Asus Removed Apps' that can be acquired through his Revolver Parts package if you are running that ROM, or can be downloaded here if not;
http://www.gnufabio.com/revolver/dls/
Or you can always make a Titanum Backup of your valued system apps before you flash your ROM. You can then do what I do, find the Titanium Backup folder on your internal and rename it 'TitaniumBackupStockApps' and move it to your SD card, then backup your user apps, rename THAT folder 'TitaniumBackupUserApps' (you may even want to date it or name which ROM it came from, this is your choice), and remove that from your internal memory. You could then do the same with user data, if you decide to do that separately. To flash them back, simply replace the folder and rename it to the 'TitaniumBackup' as it was originally, or, if the folder already exists you can simply copy over the contents, run the batch, then delete the contents and copy the user data contents over as well. This is a great way to keep your apps and data organized and backed up safely. You should make sure this stays up to date and delete old backups after 2 to 3 iterations.
[Q] Can I run Linux?
[A] Yes, look here;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1364095
[Q] How do I install themes?
[A] Depending on the ROM and Launcher you are using, some of the theming options can be built in and accessed in settings menus inside the Android UI (User Interface). However, there are other themes that change files within your root directories and these files will generally need to be installed either via CWM or via ADB. The themes' developer should have clear instructions on installing it.
One more reserved.. This one is for my thank-yous and anything else I miss guys
Roach2010, mike1986, gnufabio, xboxfanj, blades, Clemsyn, baseballfaz, danzano, paulburton, kaijura, daoist, supercurio, MrNago, jcarrz1, rayman84, lilstevie, rburrow, solarnz, fonix232, daxtsu, dipje, frankc123, Sharpe351, chatch15117 ,K900 ,earthbound, AproSamurai, TOO MANY TO REMEMBER YOU ALL!!
You guys are why I am able to do what I do now..
Mods: Stickie this!!!!
This is great! Have my tf a month and had to search all over to root/rom/etc.wish I'd had this info
Great help for us tf noobs.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
Thanks for taking the time to write this up!
Absolute champ!
nice one..thanks mate
Get work this is a must have guide
Sent from my EVO Titan 3D
Fantastic! Having current info all in one place is rare, especially on "older" devices.
Edit: Maybe add a section or note about ViperMOD
Nice job Luna.
+1 on the vipermod. That is what I used and it was extremy simple.
ViperMOD..the one thing I have no experience in on this device it seems; I did a crash course, seems it was actually based right off of Nachoroot, just a cleaned up command prompt interface, and interestingly works on TF101 and TF201. Perhaps that is why I never used it- the post is located in the Prime forum section
Added to OP, guys help me check for accuracy, and correct me if I get anything confused.
Next have some few things to polish up in my thank-yous and try not to leave anyone slighted. Also, thinking of a few more common problems to add to post two. Anything not addressed here just comment or PM me about it I will amend these posts.
THANKS!
Hi Luna
I tried to follow the Return to Stock instructions you listed but there seems to be some problems.
I know these problems are not your fault but maybe you know of another alternative which is as easy to follow as well?
I need a WW Version of the packed stock Rom but neither US nor WW are available due to the mediafire problem.
And the recovery is called 8239USrecovery so I assume I can't use it with my WW version?
Return to Stock
So, you played around, and you decided it was time to go back stock for that update, or maybe you just liked it better, or you wanted to give it to your grandma but knew Revolver was above her head- whatever the reason, you want to start fresh. The procedure requires you to get the Stock recovery image and a stock ROM. Luckily the stock ROMs are available on Asus' website, the recovery image isn't as easy to find, it i located here;
http://theunlockr.com/2011/11/28/how...s-transformer/
Place both files on your SD, but make sure the ROM file is in root (they can both be in the root it doesn't matter) and then use CWM to flash the recovery image, then WIPE EVERYTHING before rebooting into recovery mode again to confirm you have stock recovery in place, and allow it to flash stock ROM. Double check that you are unrooted by downloading superuser and installing it and seeing if it allows you root access (it should not).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
luna_c666 said:
About Stock Recovery Mode
The stock recovery mode is absolutely required to install official Asus OTA (Over The Air) updates. It can also be used to install (or RE-install if it were) your STOCK ROM (only official, digitally signed files will be accepted by the stock recovery to flash over the firmware, no modded roms will work). The method for doing this is outlined in the link for rolling back your firmware version above but I will summarize;
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So theoretically this stock recovery mode will allow us to recover to a stock Asus signed ROM in case the main ROM get damaged? for example if rooting goes wrong or any other reason?
I have an SBK2 TF101, and I don't want to install CWM for the moment but want to have root, and don't want to brick my pad.
Outstanding post. Thanks a lot...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Malandro2011 said:
Hi Luna
I tried to follow the Return to Stock instructions you listed but there seems to be some problems.
I know these problems are not your fault but maybe you know of another alternative which is as easy to follow as well?
I need a WW Version of the packed stock Rom but neither US nor WW are available due to the mediafire problem.
And the recovery is called 8239USrecovery so I assume I can't use it with my WW version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The recovery mode can be used regardless of region or firmware version, and if you are unable to locate the firmware files due to mediafire and megaupload etc. being down, simply retrieve them from Asus' website here;
http://www.asus.com/Eee/Eee_Pad/Eee_Pad_Transformer_TF101/#download
I'll update the OP to make this more clear
mcbyte_it said:
So theoretically this stock recovery mode will allow us to recover to a stock Asus signed ROM in case the main ROM get damaged? for example if rooting goes wrong or any other reason?
I have an SBK2 TF101, and I don't want to install CWM for the moment but want to have root, and don't want to brick my pad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, if you retain your stock recovery mode then it will be able to flash your firmware in the event that your ROM gets messed up for whatever reason, so long as you use the Stock signed copies of your firmware from Asus (i.e. the official files), recovery mode as stated will only flash official Asus files, they are digitally signed by Asus and without the signature recovery mode will fail.
And to put you at ease, the likelihood of anything going wrong while rooting is much smaller than flashing custom ROMs or recovery mode. Rooting is fairly fail-safe if you follow directions well.
luna_c666 said:
Yes, if you retain your stock recovery mode then it will be able to flash your firmware in the event that your ROM gets messed up for whatever reason, so long as you use the Stock signed copies of your firmware from Asus (i.e. the official files), recovery mode as stated will only flash official Asus files, they are digitally signed by Asus and without the signature recovery mode will fail.
And to put you at ease, the likelihood of anything going wrong while rooting is much smaller than flashing custom ROMs or recovery mode. Rooting is fairly fail-safe if you follow directions well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am asking because, as mentioned earlier, I only need to root for now without going the whole mod thing, because at the moment I am still not convinced that an android tablet suits me, so in case I still don't like it I want to be able to restore the stock ROM without going more into modding CWM and risking a brick.
So, in the case I root then later decide that I want to unroot, it is enough to put the signed stock Asus firmware on the SD card and boot into recovery mode, and it will be unrooted? why is it then that most unrooting guides does this with a special repacked zip file? why not just stock asus zip?
sticky!
mcbyte_it said:
I am asking because, as mentioned earlier, I only need to root for now without going the whole mod thing, because at the moment I am still not convinced that an android tablet suits me, so in case I still don't like it I want to be able to restore the stock ROM without going more into modding CWM and risking a brick.
So, in the case I root then later decide that I want to unroot, it is enough to put the signed stock Asus firmware on the SD card and boot into recovery mode, and it will be unrooted? why is it then that most unrooting guides does this with a special repacked zip file? why not just stock asus zip?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, you should know that if you do not install CWM and flash a custom ROM, you will never actually know what you can do with an android tablet
But to answer about why others use special zips, unrooting with the Asus file actually does not delete anything on your system partition, it will simply rewrite all the system files, if there are other files that are unrelated to the rooting process leftover in your system partition those files will remain after unrooting. That is what the unroot zip files do usually, is they delete everything and reformat the system partition before installing (instead of just overwrite installing) to avoid leaving orphan files. But these orphan files usually do not impact your system (the entire system has been rewritten anyway) and for sake of argument your TF is unrooted, as you no longer have root access. To avoid leaving anything in your system after unrooting you should factory restore and delete all user apps/data with something like titanium backup before installing the stock firmware over your old rooted ROM. I will think of how to add this to the OP to make it more clear.
Basically though, if you unroot you will want to manually remove any files that are in your system partition (root directory) that were not there when you first rooted your TF or flashing the stock ROM will simply leave those and overwrite the other folders/files.
Just to throw something in here about that. Vipermod does have an unroot setting in it's commands.
Or using terminal emulator or adb
su
rm -r /system/app/Superuser.apk
rm -r /system/xbin/busybox
rm -r /system/bin/su
reboot