Related
Since the FireTV is always on it is perfectly suited as a Download centre when combined with an external HDD.
At the moment I'm runnig NZBGet mobile to download media from usenet to my external HDD which is mounted using Stickmount. By installing python for android I managed to get VideoSort to work, which is a script which automatically recognizes the TV-Show/Movie for you and names it accordingly, moves it and cleans up any left-over thrash. Works very well so far.
Combined with some usenet indexing site which build rss feeds (or remote push to NZBGet) for any new episodes/movie releases you can automatically download any new stuff which you might want. Some even import any stuff from your Trakt/IMDB watchlist. As XBMC is running on the same machine it is also easy to let XBMC update the library when any new media is added.
Wonder if anyone else has set up anything like this? I looked into installing transmission through optware on the FireTV but couldn’t install optware as it wouldn’t let me remount. Can install uTorrent and control that from your phone but as far as I saw I couldn’t get it to run a cleanup script after any download is done. Really want it to be all automated so for now I’m only using usenet, which I prefer over torrents anyway.
you have just made my day you have no idea. ive been working on getting a renamer to work on my fire tv i already have a torrent based downloader with a custom rss feed to download but i couldnt for the life of me find one.
as for clean up im not quite sure what you mean but this is my setup
Flud run auto download through rss and updates decently when it downloads when its done it will delete the torrent file and there is an option to move the file when it is done downloading
i have my hdd mounted and all files are moved to the uncatagorized folder but after that i i cant sort them so im gonna try your method but a really good app i found is watchdog it auto updates the xbmc library a lot better then anything else
if theres anything i can help with let me know
thanks again
Also flud will delet old items and if its renamed and moved it should be able to delete the old unnecessary folders
so since videosort requires NZB do you know a way to make it work without it?
P.S. Sorry about my grammar its my worst subject and I was more excited to post then check haha
Dragracekid said:
you have just made my day you have no idea. ive been working on getting a renamer to work on my fire tv i already have a torrent based downloader with a custom rss feed to download but i couldnt for the life of me find one.
as for clean up im not quite sure what you mean but this is my setup
Flud run auto download through rss and updates decently when it downloads when its done it will delete the torrent file and there is an option to move the file when it is done downloading
i have my hdd mounted and all files are moved to the uncatagorized folder but after that i i cant sort them so im gonna try your method but a really good app i found is watchdog it auto updates the xbmc library a lot better then anything else
if theres anything i can help with let me know
thanks again
Also flud will delet old items and if its renamed and moved it should be able to delete the old unnecessary folders
so since videosort requires NZB do you know a way to make it work without it?
P.S. Sorry about my grammar its my worst subject and I was more excited to post then check haha
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The VideoSort script can be modified to work with torrents as well. It uses some variables passed by NZBGet (Download Directory, NZB-name, etc) to process the download. If there is any torrent client for android which allows you to call a script after a download is done and has some way to pass the download location it should work. I don't know of any torrent client on android that does this though. uTorrent, transmission and more allow for this in their Windows clients.
What I did before I got python working was I shared my external HDD with my Windows network using Samba Filesharing. Then I just had a simple batch file setup which would sort the media by using Filebot.
So there isn't an equivalent sabnzbd suite (sickbeard, couchpotato) for the Android fork like you have on openelec?
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
What if we use tasker to trigger an event when a file or folder gets moved to the UnCategorised folder? The event being a Python script that I found called turbo sort it works great.
Also one more thing I would love to get flexget working to scrape rss feeds have you looked into this at all?
I've made a lot of progress on this and the last day I'm somewhat close to making a thread that explains how to make an automated system but I've got to make sure everything works flawlessly first.
Bad grammar this time is due to voice keyboard lol
nzbget version?
I've been messing with nzbget on gbox and fire for some time now. Now gbox has openelec sabnzbdsuite is perfect. Before that was using nzbget and it worked well, however latest version with extraction would start loading on ftv but just hang. I did manage to get old version to run fine but no auto extract. Which version you using? Did you manage to add unrar pp script?
nadimsoze said:
So there isn't an equivalent sabnzbd suite (sickbeard, couchpotato) for the Android fork like you have on openelec?
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I know off. Think there is a Sickbeard version for android though. I tried to install SABnzbd through optware on my tablet but couldn't get it to work well with python. You should try NZBGet, works well. Also is less resource intensive. If you combine NZBGet with indexer to automatically add stuff and use the NZBGet post processing scripts to order the media you will basically have sabnzbd/sickbeard/couch into 1 app by just running NZBGet combined with an indexer (I use DogNZB).
Dragracekid said:
What if we use tasker to trigger an event when a file or folder gets moved to the UnCategorised folder? The event being a Python script that I found called turbo sort it works great.
Also one more thing I would love to get flexget working to scrape rss feeds have you looked into this at all?
I've made a lot of progress on this and the last day I'm somewhat close to making a thread that explains how to make an automated system but I've got to make sure everything works flawlessly first.
Bad grammar this time is due to voice keyboard lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The script I use, VideoSort, is a evolved version of the Turbo script. Good idea on Tasker to watch for the folder. Think that should work. You can try it yourself, install Python for Android and use it to run the script.
xokol2lvox said:
I've been messing with nzbget on gbox and fire for some time now. Now gbox has openelec sabnzbdsuite is perfect. Before that was using nzbget and it worked well, however latest version with extraction would start loading on ftv but just hang. I did manage to get old version to run fine but no auto extract. Which version you using? Did you manage to add unrar pp script?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The NZBGet version I have already has parcheck and unrarring build in. Only need to add post processing scripts if you want to do more. Atm I have 3 running, 1 to rename a specific format and place them in my tvshow/seasons/episodes folder structure. 1 to notify XBMC and 1 to notify me of new downloads on my phone.
Running this version:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greatlittleapps.nzbm&hl=nl_NL
The NZBGet version I have already has parcheck and unrarring build in. Only need to add post processing scripts if you want to do more. Atm I have 3 running, 1 to rename a specific format and place them in my tvshow/seasons/episodes folder structure. 1 to notify XBMC and 1 to notify me of new downloads on my phone.
Running this version:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greatlittleapps.nzbm&hl=nl_NL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's odd, that's same version that just hangs of aftv for me. Maybe time to break it out again and start from scratch.
Can't quite get it to work
Hi Nedle,
Thanks for writing this post I've been scratching my head over this for days.
Ive set up sickbeard for android just for TV post processing with rss feeds from probably the same nzb indexer as you, its a bit hit and miss really because some of the extracted files are labelled 2 folders deep with the parent folder showing the show details, another folder with random characters and then finally the video file with more random characters. It seems like sickbeard will only pick up strangely labelled files in the parent folder and not go digging.
It looks like getting videosort to work could hopefully sort this out, I'm not sure how to get python running properly. Ive tried running the r5 version from the link you gave and the python3 version with no success. I've put the videosort zip in the download folder and tried to import it into python but it pops up with an error. Videosort on Nzbget continues to fail in pp.
What process did you go through to get python to work? I'm sure I must be making a rookie error here
Thanks!
Nedle said:
Since the FireTV is always on it is perfectly suited as a Download centre when combined with an external HDD.
At the moment I'm runnig NZBGet mobile to download media from usenet to my external HDD which is mounted using Stickmount.
How did you that setup? Specifically, the nzbget sideloaded on your aftv? Did you sideload google play store and download directly to your machine? Any help/instructions would be helpful...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
olliewings said:
Hi Nedle,
Thanks for writing this post I've been scratching my head over this for days.
Ive set up sickbeard for android just for TV post processing with rss feeds from probably the same nzb indexer as you, its a bit hit and miss really because some of the extracted files are labelled 2 folders deep with the parent folder showing the show details, another folder with random characters and then finally the video file with more random characters. It seems like sickbeard will only pick up strangely labelled files in the parent folder and not go digging.
It looks like getting videosort to work could hopefully sort this out, I'm not sure how to get python running properly. Ive tried running the r5 version from the link you gave and the python3 version with no success. I've put the videosort zip in the download folder and tried to import it into python but it pops up with an error. Videosort on Nzbget continues to fail in pp.
What process did you go through to get python to work? I'm sure I must be making a rookie error here
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for a very late reaction, didn't see this until now. Scripts will have to be executable, think android doesn't allow this on the sdcard. To fix this all my scripts are located on my external hdd. Furthermore you will need to set the path and call the videosort script from a shell script as it won't work directly (atleast I couldn't).
So in my nzbget scripts folder I have a call_VideoSort.sh script, which calls VideoSort.py. The libraries which VideoSort needs (guessit) I copied to /sdcard/com.googlecode.pythonforandroid\extras\python.
call_VideoSort.sh contains all the Nzbget stuff: The options for format, folder structure, etc. Then at the bottom it simply has:
Code:
export PYTHONHOME=/data/data/com.googlecode.pythonforandroid/files/python
export PYTHONPATH=/storage/sdcard0/com.googlecode.pythonforandroid/extras/python:/data/data/com.googlecode.pythonforandroid/files/python/lib/python2.6
export PATH=$PYTHONHOME/bin:/system/bin:/system/xbin:$PATH
export LD_LIBRARY_PATH=$LD_LIBRARY_PATH:/data/data/com.googlecode.pythonforandroid/files/python/lib
python "<PATHtoVideoSort.py>"
Let me know if you need any help and I'll see if I can.
jnusraty said:
Nedle said:
Since the FireTV is always on it is perfectly suited as a Download centre when combined with an external HDD.
At the moment I'm runnig NZBGet mobile to download media from usenet to my external HDD which is mounted using Stickmount.
How did you that setup? Specifically, the nzbget sideloaded on your aftv? Did you sideload google play store and download directly to your machine? Any help/instructions would be helpful...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I have the playstore installed and installed NZBGet from there. But you can just sideload nzbget as well, shouldn't be a problem. Downloading stuff is pretty straight forward. If you want to automatically sort your media you will need post processing scripts which require python. That takes a bit more tinkering to work, as you will have to install python and make the scripts executable.
If you get stuck anywhere let me know what errors you get and I'll try to help. You can use http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/ to download the nzbget apk and sideload it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WARNING: I am not responsible if you use any of the following and for any troubles you may experience with your device.
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I recently got a Z4L and wanted to do a few things with it. After many days and nights, I am ready to share. I also wanted to consolidate an area for us to easily get items. I will add things from others if pertinent or greatly desired. Much of this will also apply to the Z4 and to other Rockchip Android TV Boxes (to a lesser extent).
This first section will entail some information, firmwares, apps, and performance tweaks and tricks.
The second section will have information on flashing firmware, ROMs, and recoveries.
The third section will have all the available tools for Rockchip boxes.
Z4 vs. Z4L
The Z4 and Z4L are essentially the same Android TV Box with a few minor differences. The Z4 has dual band WiFi, while the Z4L only supports wireless b/g/n. This is because the Z4 uses an Ampak AP6335 chip, while the Z4L uses a Realtek RTL8723. Does it matter? Yes. I have found that many firmwares and ROMs will work on the Z4L, however, all WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity is lost. And even other Rockchip Android TV Box firmwares sharing the same chip have had problems (e.g. USB ports no longer work, partial loss of remote functionality).
Another difference on the Z4L is OTG capability. While the port works for flashing, it will not work for any external devices when in the Android OS...
A final, possible, difference is that I think the Z4L only comes with 8GB of storage, but I could be wrong.
Firmware
This is the stock firmware for the Z4L. It was quite difficult to find, and was the only one I have come across:
Z4L Stock Firmware
Custom Firmwares
This is the Z4L stock firmware with enhancements. I have made some performance tweaks to help make the Z4L run smoother. Apps have also been added (with the exception of FolderMount), which I will have available in a separate section below.
In the slim version, I have taken out several apps I found unnecessary (e.g. Gmail, Calculator, etc.). Things you would normally leave to a smartphone or PC. While the firmware will be the exact same size as the stock firmware, rest assured it is slightly lighter:
Z4L Slim
In the lug version, I have not taken out any of the preinstalled apps. Instead, I have just added the same ones placed in the slim version. This will be a larger file size due in part to the additional apps, and the extra space I left for possible future modification needs:
Z4L Lug
Apps
Kodi
Kodi 15.2 RC PL
This is the beta that comes with a lot of the Android TV Boxes. It is preloaded with official and non-official add-ons. While it is suggests it is a 15.2 Isengard Release Candidate, the app settings in Android (and at least one Kodi updater app) will state that it is version 15.1.
Kodi 15.2 PL
What I have found on the Z4L is that I cannot update it. The Play Store gives no update option. Update apps for Kodi will attempt to update and fail to install, as will a manual download from the Kodi site. The only way I could update to 16.0 was by uninstalling 15.2 RC and then installing 16.0. I would lose all add-ons, and even a backup from Kodi will disallow restoring unofficial add-ons. Even if manually adding unofficial channels, I had problems getting them to work...
Kodi 16.0 PL
This is the latest (Jarvis) Kodi, and I have gone ahead and preloaded it with all the same add-ons from the 15.2 RC version:
Kodi 16.0 PL
ZDMC 16.0 PL
This is a software built on Jarvis. I have inserted all the preloaded add-ons from the 15.2 RC version in it. I am unsure what the difference is with Kodi. They look virtually the same, except for the logos and branding (since Kodi does not allow others to use their IP).
ZDMC 16.0 PL
Stock Apps
The only other stock app I thought would be of interest is the launcher. I actually prefer it to any of the others available. It may or may not work fully with other Android TV Boxes:
MyLauncher
Apps in Custom Firmwares
These are all the apps that come in the custom firmwares I created:
Added
Other Apps
FolderMount is an app that can help when you have little storage space. The only reason I have it here is because it does not come with any of the custom firmwares and will be needed for one of the performance tweaks and tricks:
FolderMount
Performance Tweaks & Tricks
Some of these tweaks or tricks may be dependent upon root. The Z4L comes prerooted, but others may need to obtain root first.
Speed Up
One of the best fixes I can recommend to help with any sluggish performance is to speed up your CPU cores. Download an app like Kernel Adiutor to give you as much access as possible. If you download something like No-frills CPU Control, you will only have access to the "Little" cores of the RK3368.
Open your app of choice and find the area that allows you to set the minimum and maximum states of the CPU.
Ensure that the "Big" cores are set to 1.5GHz for the maximum state.
Change the minimum state to 1.5GHz.
Do the same for the "Little" cores, where the maximum state should be 1.2GHz.
You can leave the governor as Interactive or change it to Performance.
Leave the I/O scheduler as "cfq" for daily use, use "noop" for benchmarks.
I have not experienced any type of overheating from these settings.
Maximum GPU Performance
If you want to get a bit more out of the PowerVR Rogue G6110 GPU, you can downsize your resolution. I use a 1080p TV, so I changed the Android OS resolution to 720p. Download something like NOMone Resolution Changer, or equivalent. A few items will have some larger writing even after the DPI change, but nothing that should deter you from keeping the setting.
Open your app of choice.
Set the resolution to something like 1280x720.
Change the DPI to (or around) 151.
Apply.
Some apps will ask if you want to keep the settings, and prompt you if you need another message in case something happens. With NOMone, this does happen. It also gives you the ability to reset to default settings if need be.
With the two above tweaks, I was able to get the multi-thread score to outperform an iPhone 5S in GeekBench. And in GFXBench, I was able to outperform a LG G4.
Internal/External Storage Swap
The greatest drawback of the Z4L is the 8GB of storage space. It can fill up quickly if you want to play games, or have hefty apps. You will need to download SD Fix and FolderMount. I have tried other apps like Links2SD and Int2Ext, but they do not work.
Open SD Fix and follow the instructions.
Reboot.
Open FolderMount.
Analyze the apps and see which have Data or OBB files, and are not grayed out.
Select them and make a pair.
You can select a USB flash drive if you do not want to use a micro SD card, but either way, ensure the source and destination sources are properly chosen.
SD Booster
It is probable that your internal storage and micro SD card are not optimized. Download SD Booster to change this and speed up your I/O abilities. Red means that you are definitely not optimized, yellow means you are operating at substandard levels, green means your are at the perfect level, and purple means you are operating beyond the perfect level.
Open SD Booster.
Select the internal or external storage.
Change the original value to a different one (i.e. 512, 1024, 2048, 8096).
Use the green checkbox to confirm the changes.
Use the green checkbox on the main window to implement the changes.
The Z4L's internal storage is in the red when first opening this program, so this will help somewhat. You may not get a huge jump in read or write speeds, but every little bit helps.
Developer Options
The Z4L does not have the ability to enable Developer Options natively. The "Build" section is not present. Download and app for Developer Options, I recommend the one from Andev.
Open your app of choice.
Click whatever button(s) needed to access Developer Options.
The one I have mentioned is part of the custom firmwares I created. The only caveat is that it will require you to sign into your Google account before proceeding.
Xbox 360 Wireless Controller
If you want to use a Xbox 360 wireless controller instead of a wired one or Bluetooth gamepad, you can! You will need a Xbox 360 wireless gaming receiver. Download USB/BT Joystick Center.
Open USB/BT Joystick Center.
Plug in the wireless receiver.
Click the button on the wireless receiver for sync.
Click the middle button of your Xbox 360 wireless controller.
Click the sync button located on the top of the Xbox 360 wireless controller.
Select the option to search for controllers on USB/BT Joystick Center.
Once the controller is recognized, immediately begin testing the buttons and whatnot or you may lose connectivity.
This is a bit finnicky, but it does work. The first couple times I could not get the controller to stay synced. Once it did stick, I tried it with Dead Trigger 2 and found that almost everything worked but the D-pad. Of course, I still had to setup the buttons.
Misc. Issues
Apps Not Working
Some apps can be downloaded but will FC when trying to open them. For this, I do recommend downloading the APKs from somewhere reputable and installing them with the file explorer.
Stock File Explorer
The stock file explorer is actually good, but it will not let you go to root ("/"). For this you will require something like ES File Explorer File Manager or Root Explorer. I found that whenever I would go to the Data folder on ES File Explorer File Manager (after selecting show Hidden Files), it would show it as empty. Whereas, Root Explorer would show everything. However, I have not been able to access my USB flash drive through Root Explorer, but can do so with ES File Explorer File Manager.
Stock Media Player
The stock media player plays most everything, and has built-in 3D capabilities. However, when trying to play some x265 files, there were problems. I would recommend installing MX Player to help with H.265 or VP9 codecs.
10-Bit Video Files
8-bit video files for H.265 or VP9 have no problems playing on these boxes. But when trying to play something that is 10-bit, it has nothing but major frame stutter, audio skip or silence. Until these codecs are made to not utilize so much CPU power, I do not think anything other than actual PC's will be able to play them properly.
External Webcam
It may be possible to use an external webcam on these boxes, and some of the files I have looked at suggest this. I do not currently have an external webcam that I can try this out with, but if someone else does, please inform me and I will update the information here.
External 3G/4G
It may also be possible to use an external USB SIM Card Modem to get data to work on these boxes (if ever needed). I do not currently have any such device that I can try this out with, but if someone else does, please inform me and I will update the information here.
Thanks: XDA, Freaktab, 4PDA
This section only contains the TWRP files. Other necessary files are in the next section.
How To Get Into LOADER Mode
Loader mode is needed in order to flash ROMs. If you simply connect your Android TV Box with the a USB cable to your PC and power it on, you will only get ADB mode, which will not work.
Plug in the USB cable to a PC and the Android TV Box.
Press and hold the reset button. (On the Z4L/Z4 it will be located on the bottom of the box. On some others it will be in the A/V port, so use a toothpick or paperclip).
Plug in the power adapter while still holding the reset button.
4 seconds should pass before it is in Loader mode.
Let go of the reset button.
DO NOT TRY TO PUT A THIN OBJECT INTO THE Z4L/Z4! There is no back (at least on the Z4L), which means you can go straight into the area of the PCB and possibly destroy something or disconnect the antenna cable.
How To Flash Firmwares/ROMs
You can use either the Android Tool or the Batch Tool to flash IMG files. I prefer Android Tool since it provides more options, but I will explain how to use both.
Open the program of choice.
Switch to the "Upgrade Firmware" tab if using Android Tool.
Click the "Firmware" button (or the 3 dots button for "FW Path:" if using Batch Tool).
Navigate to your "update.img", or the IMG file for your firmware/ROM.
Select the IMG file.
Click "Open".
Click "Upgrade".
The Batch Tool can only do firmware/ROM IMG files, but Android Tool will allow you to flash BIN or entire extracted ROM files.
How To Flash Extracted Firmwares/ROMs
The Android Tool can be used to flash extracted firmwares and ROMs. You will notice that the software comes with a "rockdev" folder filled with IMG and other files. I have come across at least one ROM that was extracted and needed Android Tool in order to be flashed. For the purposes of this tutorial, ROM is interchangeable with firmware.
Open the "rockdev" file of Android Tool.
Go to the "Image" folder.
Replace all the files in the "Image" folder with the extracted IMG files from the ROMs "Image" folder.
Go back up one folder (into "rockdev").
Replace all the IMG files with the extracted IMG files from the ROMs root folder.
If you have any extra files from the ROM that are present in the "rockdev" folder, replace those as well.
For at least the Z4L, be sure that you have the Loader BIN file that is version 2.40!
Open Android Tool.
Put your Android TV Box into Loader mode.
The first tab will show you all the IMG, TXT, and BIN files that you should have from your ROM in the "rockdev" folder. The only file you may not have, but should already be in the folder, is "baseparamer.img". The one that comes with Android Tool will suffice.
Ensure all the check boxes for each IMG, TXT, and BIN file is checked.
Click "Run".
Note: NEVER FLASH AN EXTRACTED ROM ALONG WITH A TWRP RECOVERY! The box will boot immediately into TWRP, making it impossible to ever get to the ROM itself!
Once the process has completed, which should take no more than a few minutes, your Android TV Box will no longer state that is in Loader mode, and will either state no device is connected or "Found One ADB Device". If you see this, or at least that you were successful on the message prompt of Android Tool, then you can go ahead and disconnect everything and boot your box!
How To Flash TWRP Recovery
You will need the Android Tool for this. Download either Abdul's TWRP, Generic TWRP, or Specific TWRP. I have tested and used Abdul's TWRP on the Z4L, and it works without issue.
Change the name of the TWRP IMG to "recovery.img".
Go to "rockdev>Image" of the Android Tool folder.
Replace "recovery.img" with the renamed TWRP IMG.
Open Android Tool.
Uncheck every box except "Recovery".
Put your Android TV Box into Loader mode.
Click "Run".
TWRP is now installed. I am unsure for the other TWRP IMG files, but the Abdul variant will require a mouse in order to be used because the remote is not supported.
How To Root
If your Android TV Box is not prerooted, then you will need to use SuperSU. Download SuperSU from here. If you want to try the latest version, you can find it here. Ensure that you already have TWRP installed.
Place the SuperSU ZIP on your internal or external storage.
Boot into TWRP.
Click on Install.
Add a zip.
Find your SuperSU ZIP file.
Select it.
Flash the ZIP file.
You should now be rooted and can check with an app from the Play Store to verify. I have not tested this as I do not need it, so if any steps are different, please let me know and I will change accordingly.
How To Flash Firmwares/ROMs with a SD Card
You will need the Upgrade Disk Tool and a micro/SD card that is 4GB or more. For the purposes of this tutorial, ROM is interchangeable with firmware, and SD card is interchangeable with micro SD card.
Open the Upgrade Disk Tool (SD Firmware Tool).
Select your SD card from the dropdown menu.
Click the "Firmware" button.
Find your ROM's IMG file.
Select it.
Click "Open".
Click "Create".
Once done, ensure your Android TV Box is turned off.
Insert the SD card into your Android TV Box.
Power on the Android TV Box.
The process will take some time, but a notification of a successful completion will appear when done.
Turn off the Android TV Box.
Remove the SD card.
Power on the Android TV Box.
The Android TV Box should now be "upgraded" to the firmware or ROM you used.
I want to remind people that every time you flash a firmware or ROM, it will take around 10 minutes for the Android TV Box's initial boot into the Android OS.
I may also put some more information here about how to open the compiled IMG files and play around with the system IMG file inside, if people want to know (and I have time).
The Rockchip drivers needed for these tools can be found in Batch Tool v1.8 as "DriverAssitant" [sic].
Android Tool
This is the probably the best tool for flashing and dumping firmware or ROM files:
Android Tool v2.35
Batch Tool
This is a great tool for flashing firmware or ROM files. It is the easiest to use:
Batch Tool v1.8
Batch Tool v1.7
Again, v1.8 has the drivers needed to make all the Rockchip tools function.
Factory Tool
This is a tool that should allow you to change things like the boot animation, add or delete APKs, and even make system clones. However, this does not work with the Z4L. The latest version gets close to completing its initialization process, but fails at the end, keeping all the options grayed out...
Factory Tool v3.4
Factory Tool v4.0
Factory Tool v4.4
Factory Tool v5.0
I have changed a couple of the versions to default to English (or as much English as afforded by the program without too much modification). The others were already in English.
Dump Tool
This is a tool that is essentially Android Tool. I believe that the version of Android Tool I have linked will perform the same functions, but this was one specifically made for dumping stock IMG files. I have used it unsuccessfully, as I can dump all the IMG files, but I am unable to make them work together. However, the "system.img" file may or may not work for modification purposes, but I have yet to check...
Dump Tool v2.3
IMG Mod Tool
This is a great and useful tool for those who want to modify firmwares or ROMs. It allows you to open firmware or ROM IMG files and recompile them. And despite its name, it does work for RK3368 Android TV Boxes.
RK3066 IMG Mod Tool
Upgrade Disk Tool
This allows for "upgrading" your Android TV Box with a different firmware or ROM.
SD Firmware Tool
If I have missed any tools that do something different, have extra functions, or simplify procedures; let me know and I will add them here.
Reserved..
Reserved...
Great consolidated info for Z4 / Z4L RK3368.
Different ROMs being developed for this beast, mostly Z4. IMO best, fastest and stablest is @yablrar mod v1.2 A multi window one is also there. I believe MM 6 is releasing soon.
On a side note:
An easier way to get into recovery/bootloader mode is to use an App like Titanium or other to reboot. No need to tinker around with reset/power buttons.
I have this android tv...should your firmware work in it?¿?
http://www.leotec.com/index.asp?acc...LEOTEC&familiaweb=TV&CodigoArticulo=LETVBOX02
Z4 Rockchip Bluetooth Issues
I have the Z4 Rockchip , I have tried 3 different firmwares and I can't bluetooth past 4 feet ? It has 4.0 , is there a way to upgrade it ?
Thanks
WAIKIKI728 said:
I have this android tv...should your firmware work in it?¿?
http://www.leotec.com/index.asp?acc...LEOTEC&familiaweb=TV&CodigoArticulo=LETVBOX02
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It might work, yours looks like it does not have wireless AC, so there is a chance. Get a backup of your stock firmware, then try mine out. Be sure to check if your ports, WiFi, and Bluetooth work after flashing my firmware...
pimpurlid said:
I have the Z4 Rockchip , I have tried 3 different firmwares and I can't bluetooth past 4 feet ? It has 4.0 , is there a way to upgrade it ?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The hardware will be near impossible to upgrade, and not worth your time. If you really want to have it work past 4 feet, you would need to buy a Bluetooth signal booster. However, if you are just using a mouse or keyboard, I would try getting a USB 2.4GHz device instead. Those seem to work much better.
Heatshiver said:
It might work, yours looks like it does not have wireless AC, so there is a chance. Get a backup of your stock firmware, then try mine out. Be sure to check if your ports, WiFi, and Bluetooth work after flashing my firmware...
The hardware will be near impossible to upgrade, and not worth your time. If you really want to have it work past 4 feet, you would need to buy a Bluetooth signal booster. However, if you are just using a mouse or keyboard, I would try getting a USB 2.4GHz device instead. Those seem to work much better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank - You .
Have you tried getting a version of Linux installed on one of these Z4's?
Other other people have got the 64 bit arm version running on devices that use the same chip (RK3386 chip).
how get loader mode
Please help ... I can't make that my pc find the Z4 rk3368 in loader mode, just the ADB mode.. to install you costum ROM Z4L slim..
tank you..
Hi, been trying to install custom roms, with rockchip batch tool and android tool, i am in loader mode and with org cable but all i get is test device fail. I can update stock firmware with usb just can't get custom roms to work. Thanks for any help.
Z4L
Has anyone installed this rom, any feedback?
I have the Andoer Z4L and wanted to try this as I am experiencing some issues with audio via optical where it drops intermittently. Would any of the Z4 roms for RK3368 work on this device also?
Z4 ROM that should also work with the Z4L
d33pblu80 said:
Has anyone installed this rom, any feedback?
I have the Andoer Z4L and wanted to try this as I am experiencing some issues with audio via optical where it drops intermittently. Would any of the Z4 roms for RK3368 work on this device also?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Z4 android TV (ATV) ROM should also work with the Z4L.
Just install my custom Z4 custom ROM available at freaktab. I'm a new user here at XDA so it's not allowed to me to post any external link. So just google for the name of my ROM. "[ROM] Z4 RK3368 - android TV (ATV) for Andoer Z4 - ENY EKB368 - Acemax AK838 - Tronfy X6"
Then just flash on top of that ROM the needed Z4L KRS files (resource & kernel) to activate the Z4L RTL8723bs WiFi chip (also described at my freaktab thread).
Good luck and much fun
-cOOLio-
In the end I gave up.
No one can tell me what is the most complete and working firmware.
All firmware always has something that does not work.
Now I still have the firmware 22.12.2015
It's not really a speed champion, but at least it works at all!
does anyone tell me how to get into recovery mode?
I would like to flash the supersu file, but I can not get into recovery
Hi all. Only reason I am thinking of rooting my Shield TV is so I can write to my removable drives. From my understanding is that SDFix does not work with marshmallow. Is this correct? I Would love to access my non adoptable drive from my network. Or if rooted, can i also use FTP to read and write? Thank you.
robjbw said:
Hi all. Only reason I am thinking of rooting my Shield TV is so I can write to my removable drives. From my understanding is that SDFix does not work with marshmallow. Is this correct? I Would love to access my non adoptable drive from my network. Or if rooted, can i also use FTP to read and write? Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hope this helps... looks like newest update on 1/18/17 (v5.0.1)
"Other Enhancements
*Added ability to write to attached USB or SD card storage."
forums.geforce.com/default/topic/988354/shield-tv/shield-experience-upgrade-5-01-feedback-thread-for-shield-2017-/
I assume you mean network access to the attached storage
SHIELD TV Gen. 2015
write access was, for me, only possible through root and a SMB/samba server.
Root via http://download.chainfire.eu/supersu from chainfire
SMB server via https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.icecoldapps.serversultimate + https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.icecoldapps.serversultimate.packb for a native SMB server, normally i use a FTP-server like https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=lutey.FTPServer but was not able to get it running on the shield
SHIELD TV Gen. 2017
As of 5.0 i was not able to write to the storage
Actual there is no way to root the 2017 and therefore no SMB server.
The bootloader was updated and ca be unlocked but does not allow to flash the recovery, even if it tells you so (fastboot).
Android 7 recognize a manipulation and reflashes the stock recovery
But i am not sure if 5.0.1 added the network write access storage feature.
robjbw said:
Hi all. Only reason I am thinking of rooting my Shield TV is so I can write to my removable drives. From my understanding is that SDFix does not work with marshmallow. Is this correct? I Would love to access my non adoptable drive from my network. Or if rooted, can i also use FTP to read and write? Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Assuming we're talking a 2017 Shield, I actually managed to access my non-adapted storage over FTP. Without root.
I have a 5TB external HDD hooked up to my Shield, and sideloaded an FTP app. I set my external HDD as root-folder for said app, and could both read/write to it (most recent software update, 5.0.1). I wanted easy management/streaming from my PC though, so I installed WebDrive so I could mount the FTP server as a local drive.
Works like a charm, can post a how-to if required.
Radnu said:
Works like a charm, can post a how-to if required.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes please!
twe69 said:
Yes please!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Updated: We still need FTP to write to an external, non-adopted storage. Viewing can be done over SMB though!
Alrighty then, here goes nothing, please do keep in mind the "fix" you'll find down below is a quick and dirty one. It will allow you to both read and write to your external storage over FTP, without actually needing to have root.
Requirements
1. Sideload Launcher by Chainfire
2. A file manager, preferably with cloud access. I prefer X-plore myself.
3. FTP Server by The Olive Tree (others may work, your mileage may vary).
4. Any FTP client to access your shiny new server.
Step 1
- Install the Sideload Launcher if you haven't done so yet, it will allow us to open APKs that weren't designed for AndroidTV. You can just grab it from the PlayStore.
Step 2
- We're going to need an APK from FTP Server. The easiest way so far seems to be to install it on another device (in my case, my trusty Note3), and "backup" the APK to your Google drive using X-plore as you can see *here*.
- After we've gotten the APK there, hop back to the Shield and open X-plore. Go to your Google drive and install the FTP Server we just put there.
Step 3
- Use the Sideload Launcher to open our FTP server and set it up. Tapping your D-pad "up" once gets us to the settings of the app. Open it, and scroll down till you're looking at something like *this*.
- Most of these settings are up to your own discretion, but I strongly advice to untick "anonymous login" and set a username/pw. The most important bit is to set the home-directory to your non-adapted HDD.
- Close the settings, and tap your D-pad "down" once. Click [ A ], and we should get a nice green icon saying we're up and running! Should be something like *this*.
- The app will "survive" Sleep-mode, but after a restart you'll have to toggle it on again.
Step 4
- Profit!
- You should be able to access your FTP server on your specified local port, and using WebDrive you can even access it easily on a PC. It'll look something like *this*.
- You can use your regular SMB share to view your files over your local network, the catch is that you'll need to use FTP to write to it.
Final note!
It looks like setting X-plore as "default handler" for the non-adapted storage makes it disconnect from your shield. Don't tick it!
I read that writing to the external usb HDD is now fixed in the latest update v5.0.2?
In which case enable the following Settings > Device > Storage & reset > SHIELD storage access > Over local network > On and map the drive to the laptop.
Is this correct? I need to test it out still.
twe69 said:
I read that writing to the external usb HDD is now fixed in the latest update v5.0.2?
In which case enable the following Settings > Device > Storage & reset > SHIELD storage access > Over local network > On and map the drive to the laptop.
Is this correct? I need to test it out still.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't think so yet. I *can* view and play it, but can't write to it. Screeny over here: imgur,com/ieuhlB0
Any one have luck with this yet? Really hoping to be able to write easy to the external storage.
candymann said:
Any one have luck with this yet? Really hoping to be able to write easy to the external storage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I explained above, you actually can write to it using FTP (non-adopted storage, no root required whatsoever). Currently I would just advice using the regular SMB share to view it on other devices (since you don't want to download anything before viewing).
I've edited the instructions to clarify.
Here is something I discovered. When you hook up a USB flash drive or HD, it creates some folders on that drive. Android nvidia shield(something like that)
The nvidia folder it creates is writable. I am using a flash drive as non adoptable to play ROMs on with emulators. On the root of the drive I had issues. But once I moved my ROMs folder inside the nvidia folder all was well. No my emulators can load the ROMs from the nvidia folder created on the drive and write the save files to the same folder the ROMs are located in.
Hope this helps. Only issue is that when u restart, you get the annoying pop up asking to adopt the drive. I just hit browse each time.. Because I don't want to adopt it.. I just want it to store files..
Android went plum retarded post kitkat with drives and SD cards and write permissions.. Its very annoying and makes me long for the good OK days where u could just insert something and do with it slas you please... In my opinion they have over complicated what should be a rather simple procedure.. But it looks like this is the direction they have choose..
adam_ky said:
Here is something I discovered. When you hook up a USB flash drive or HD, it creates some folders on that drive. Android nvidia shield(something like that)
The nvidia folder it creates is writable. I am using a flash drive as non adoptable to play ROMs on with emulators. On the root of the drive I had issues. But once I moved my ROMs folder inside the nvidia folder all was well. Now my emulators can load the ROMs from the nvidia folder created on the drive and write the save files to the same folder the ROMs are located in.
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Checked this and the [\\SHIELD\ExternalStorage\NVIDIA_SHIELD] folder is writable over SMB indeed.
Now it's just a matter of whether or not you're willing to put up with the popup.
Hope that helps ya. The android folder is most likely writable as well.
I remember this work around when lollipop came out and apps were not built with the proper permissions. You could use the apps folder in android on the SD card to circumvent this.
But yea I'm good for now just using the shield folder on my flash drive... I do wish there was a way to remove the popup on boot asking to adopt storage though....
I'm beginning to loathe nougat....
The later android versions are hardly usable for me without the use of xposed.
Anyways, hope that trick helps you and anyone else
If you have root couldn't you just mount the drive as writeable using a file explorer? I'm interested in writing to a removable drive in general (don't care about network access specifically).
Any news here?
I am on Nvidia Shield 2017 with 8.0.1 rooted.
I can only READ my attached NAS (network storage).
But I want to get WRITE access too
The workaround with the NVIDIA_SHIELD folder did not work... And Apps like SDfix ends up in error ??!
I own two Shields and need them to write to my NAS.
Does anyone can help me how to get this working?
Both Shields are rooted
Anyone know, if THIS is still actual? (4 years old)
Thank u very much
Kamikaze01 said:
Any news here?
I am on Nvidia Shield 2017 with 8.0.1 rooted.
I can only READ my attached NAS (network storage).
But I want to get WRITE access too
The workaround with the NVIDIA_SHIELD folder did not work... And Apps like SDfix ends up in error ??!
I own two Shields and need them to write to my NAS.
Does anyone can help me how to get this working?
Both Shields are rooted
Anyone know, if THIS is still actual? (4 years old)
Thank u very much
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same setup as you. I have been searching everywhere on a way to do this and no luck.
Hi!
Theres lots of different packages and resources scattered around, and theres missing instructions and unclear details.
Would it be possible to compile a list, with instructions, on modding a rooted NST (/Glowlight)?
I have seen new kernels with USB Host/OTG, multitouch, upgrades, additional launchers etc, but no real details of how to use them, whats the most up to date etc
Thanks!
alexhorner said:
Hi!
Theres lots of different packages and resources scattered around, and theres missing instructions and unclear details.
Would it be possible to compile a list, with instructions, on modding a rooted NST (/Glowlight)?
I have seen new kernels with USB Host/OTG, multitouch, upgrades, additional launchers etc, but no real details of how to use them, whats the most up to date etc
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, that will take a very long time. It's something I've thought about for this year, but it's a big effort.
Suppose you list what you'd like to do, and I'll try to point you in the right directions, in some kind of logical order.
Thanks for such a fast reply!
Referencing https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/share-your-setup-app-list.3143404/
I'd like to get the best kernel I can, with USB HOST and Sound drivers if possible
From that list I can also see of interest:
Extended Power Menu
AndroNook Settings
UsbMode
TuneIn Radio
QQPlayer
FastMode2
Opera Mini
AirDroid
adbWireless
Nook Clear Screen
Terminal Emulator
Stock Settings
Would you have any developers/stock experience and performance/featureset upgrade recommendations too?
Ideally I'd love to write up a page for everything I use with downloads and instructions where applicable
Thanks!
Edit: Tools like OpenSSH and BusyBox would be handy too, though I could probably build those from older sources if I need to
alexhorner said:
Thanks for such a fast reply!
Referencing https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/share-your-setup-app-list.3143404/
I'd like to get the best kernel I can, with USB HOST and Sound drivers if possible
From that list I can also see of interest:
Extended Power Menu
AndroNook Settings
UsbMode
TuneIn Radio
QQPlayer
FastMode2
Opera Mini
AirDroid
adbWireless
Nook Clear Screen
Terminal Emulator
Stock Settings
Would you have any developers/stock experience and performance/featureset upgrade recommendations too?
Ideally I'd love to write up a page for everything I use with downloads and instructions where applicable
Thanks!
Edit: Tools like OpenSSH and BusyBox would be handy too, though I could probably build those from older sources if I need to
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most of that list is apps. Give me a day to put something together.
nmyshkin said:
Most of that list is apps. Give me a day to put something together.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No rush! Thank you so much for your help
[I'm going to try to address your issues in this single post, but not all at once. I'll be adding things over the next few days. Since I don't know where in the process you are currently, just skip things you have already done]
Updating to FW 1.2.2
[Note: if you have a UK device, go to: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-dealing-with-non-us-aka-uk-devices-in-2021.4233411/ and return here to the "Kernals" section after completing option 3]
If your device is still on FW 1.2.1 you will need to do a manual update. In theory, you should be able to download the update zip from B&N (https://su.barnesandnoble.com/nook/nook2/1.2.2/351e26527e80156183e74be2da2ce89f/nook_1_2_update.zip), connect your NST/G to your PC via USB, copy the update zip to the "Nook" drive and wait. When the device sleeps, the update should be installed. If you come back later and look at the "Nook" drive and you don't see the update zip, it's done. You can check this by looking in the Settings app for the software version.
IF the theoretical procedure does not work for you, a deregistration might be in order. Since a device on FW 1.2.1 cannot deregister by contacting B&N servers (this is generally done via the Settings app), you will have to force a user data wipe. To do this, turn off the device. Power back on and as soon as you see the "Read Forever" screen, press and hold the two lower hardware buttons (page-turn buttons) until a prompt appears. Follow the on-screen directions. This will eventually leave you at the "Welcome" screen. Now attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip onto the "Nook" drive and wait for the update to occur. Again, if you come back later and you don't see the update zip listed on the "Nook" drive, you're done. At this point you can continue and register your device.
IF the second method was unsuccessful, there might be something messed up with the resident FW. In that case, the best course is to initiate a factory re-write of the entire system. The eight-failed-boot attempts is painful and often very frustrating, but NookManager can do the job in the push of a button. So if you are still having issues updating, proceed to the "Rooting" section below and prepare a NookManager card. Then power down your device, insert the NookManager card and power up. Skip WiFi turn on. The "Restore Factory zip" option is found under "Rescue". Follow the directions and after a reboot you will be at the "Welcome" screen on some unknown FW. Attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip to the "Nook" drive, and wait for the update to occur as described above. Once that has happened, continue on to registration.
Rooting
Go here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-updating-nookmanager-for-fw-1-2-2.3873048/ and choose whichever version of NookManager seems like it will best meet your needs. I strongly suggest you make a FW 1.2.2 registered backup before rooting (NookManager can do this). When your device is rooted and you have done some configuration on the possible launchers and/or file managers, return here to the next section, "Kernals".
Note: regarding your question about ssh and busybox, the latter is installed during rooting with NookManager. I'm really not familiar with ssh but I note that you can supposedly use it with NookManager running. There is some info on the opening screen where the WiFi option is located.
Kernels
The first kernel modification was for multi-touch to enable pinch-zoom for those apps that would support it on the NST. Every subsequent kernel has included this change.
Now it gets a little confusing. For practical purposes, only kernels based on at least FW 1.2.1 are of use. Earlier kernels do not understand glowlight control (you can work around this, but why bother?). So there are more or less three "modern" kernels for the NST/G, one without support for USB Host and two with USB Host support.
Kernel 166 (see attachment below) does not support USB Host but it does support both augmented display modes, NoRefresh and FastMode (with the appropriate apps installed). NoRefresh is an augment for flicker-free reading when scrolling in an app (like a webpage, for example) or when moving around on a PDF image. Based on the original development thread, this appears not to require kernel modification, only the installation and configuration of an app (link below). FastMode is an augment for, well, I guess for playing with video. It presents a highly dithered image (lots of tiny dots) in an attempt to simulate greater grey-scale. Initially it seems like a good idea (impressive coding, anyway) but it's not good at all for reading and there is a lot of ghosting in video until the screen is finally filled with swirls of dots in various states of visibility. At least that was my experience. FastMode requires both kernel modification and an app (link below). Kernel 166 is the only kernel that can run both display modes. Like all kernels that support FastMode it is overclocked, supposedly up to 1100 Mz, although I never saw it indicated more than 1000 Mz. When running it you probably should have a CPU governor app installed (download below), perhaps trim the CPU down to 800 Mz to help with battery life.
NoRefresh and FastMode both require apps to activate the display augments (not simultaneously). But the point of all this (since you want USB Audio) is to try to make clear(?) that any other kernel that supports FastMode kills NoRefresh (somehow). So, if you want USB Host/Audio (and you do) then you have to choose which display augment you want because you can't have both. That is not to say it's impossible (clearly kernel 166 shows that it is) but only that there is no existing kernel that makes it possible.
The two kernels which support USB Host probably have numbers. Maybe one of them is 174. But probably nobody knows at this point. The kernel in the CWM zip for enabling USB Audio (with all the nifty drivers) is an overclocked kernel that supports FastMode. If you would prefer to have access to NoRefresh instead of FastMode, you can use the kernel attached below (can't find the original link, so...). Just open the CWM USB Audio zip in something like WinRAR and drag the new kernel into the "boot" folder, replacing the file already there. Be sure to not recompress the file. Use the "store" or similar option when dragging into the opened archive.
Kernel installation can be done via adb. The directions for that are here. But since you have the CWM zip available and want to install all the audio stuff as well, the easiest path is via CWM. That means you need a card.
Download one of the two sdcard options from here and burn a card (do NOT install CWM internally on the NSTG! It will replace the fail-safe factory image!!). Then copy the zip with the kernel and audio drivers to the card and boot your NSTG from the CWM card. Install from the zip and you're good to go after a reboot. If you change your mind later about the kernel just swap in the one you want in the zip file and flash the whole package again.
Two details on this CWM USB Audio package: microphone recording is not entirely/correctly implemented in the files as supplied. If that is not important to you, skip to the next stuff. If you want to get it done right and then forget about it, you need to replace one of the files in the zip with a corrected version and you also need to copy a patched version of framework.jar into /system/framework. The zip of patches below contains the framework.jar and a file called alsa.default.so. You can use a file manager to copy the framework.jar into /system/framework. Be sure the permissions are set the same as the original (you can rename original to framework.jar.bak first, if you want). Then reboot.
As for the little alsa file, open the CWM USBAudio zip and navigate inside to system/lib/hw. You'll see the original file there. Drag the replacement over and be sure not to recompress it (i.e., use "store" or similar). Now the zip is good to go for a complete USB Audio installation including both playback and recording. Whew!
USB Audio
Of course, it's not that simple. There's no headphone jack or speakers. How does the audio come out?! You need two pieces of hardware (three, if you count earbuds/headphones---or a cable to attach to the auxiliary jack of your sound system) and some software.
USB Host in general requires the use of an OTG cable stub. This seems to be a very critical part of the arrangement. My first cable fit poorly and I almost gave up on the whole enterprise. A second one fit in the slightly non-standard USB jack like a hand in a glove. Suddenly it all worked! I can't tell you which cable might work for you. They are cheap (that's part of the problem...) and you may need to try more than one. Amazon, ebay, etc. Some are straight-line, others 90 degrees. What's important is a good fit. I'm not saying the example in the link above is a good fit. I got mine so long ago I have no idea where it came from. Probably ebay. Long gone.
Since the NSTG has no sound hardware, you need a USB-C external sound card device (here's another link to the button/LED kind--expired, but you get the idea). These also are not very expensive and can be found on Amazon or ebay. There are two basic designs. One has a bunch of LEDs that just waste battery power. It may also have volume control and/or other buttons. The other one is more spartan, lacking LEDs and buttons. I have one of each and never use with one with the LEDs.
To initiate USB Host or Audio you need at least one app (each). @Renate has produced an app for USB Host and an additional one for USB Audio. They can be downloaded from her signature page. Both are used to activate USB Audio. They are great for diagnostics but I just never have any issues with USB Host (that perfect plug!) so I wanted something that would be simpler. Just one touch. I made two small apps, one for USB Host (does not activate audio stuff) and one for USB Audio (sets up host and activates audio). The latest version of the USB Audio app places volume control buttons on the screen when in use, so you really don't need a device with volume buttons. My apps are found here. These routines are also included as options in my QuickTiles app.
ADB
You didn't specifically mention ADB so perhaps you are already fixed for that or maybe don't think you'll want it. There are certainly some things that are really only possible with ADB when you start getting down and dirty with the device. But a good file manager and/or terminal app can also do a lot of stuff without ADB. Still, if you don't have it, the easiest way to get just ADB and not the entire Android SDK is to download and install Minimal ADB and Fastboot. This is for Windows. If you're using a Mac, you're on your own.
The apps in your list
I'm going to try not to editorialize too much here, but some things may not work as well as they sound and there might be better alternatives to others, so...based on my experiences (and prejudices...).
Extended Power Menu (caution, "reboot to recovery" option goes straight to factory re-image without any chance to say no! A possible alternative, my Alternate Power Menu app)
AndroNook Settings (I had trouble with this and the stock B&N system; some settings don't seem to work, some cause a reboot. A possible alternative my Nook Settings app--not as tidy but full-featured)
UsbMode (this is the kernal thing and/or maybe the activating app--already covered above)
TuneIn Radio (still works great, available in the package of apps linked in my signature)
QQPlayer (@pinguy1982 posted this copy--MX Player w/codec pkg also is great--again in my app pack)
FastMode2 (app already linked above; needed to activate FastMode with supporting kernel)
Opera Mini (installed with the updated NookManager packages. Direct link to Opera archive)
AirDroid (also, if you use ES File Explorer it has a "remote manager" capability. Creates an FTP address. You type in the address in the Windows Explorer address bar and voila, you can move files back and forth via WiFi. Hard to get to, though, buried in the app settings, so I made a little app to access directly. Also available as an option in my QuickTiles app.
adbWireless (ADB Konnect is installed by NookManager. One drawback: for long sessions you need to extend screen timeout since connection seems to drop when screen goes into sleep mode)
Nook Clear Screen (I found this not very useful; maybe I have a greater tolerance for little screen artifacts. Also available as an option in my QuickTiles app.
Terminal Emulator (couldn't track this one down in the forum so I uploaded a copy below)
Stock Settings (well, this is what's on the device out-of-the-box!)
I think (hope) that covers everything you mentioned. I did see a reference to an app called DroidSSH while I was tracking down some of this stuff, but no link. If that's something you might find useful, you'll need to do a lot of Googling. (or maybe it was SSHDroid?
If there is anything else, or something here is not clear, give a holler.
nmyshkin said:
[I'm going to try to address your issues in this single post, but not all at once. I'll be adding things over the next few days. Since I don't know where in the process you are currently, just skip things you have already done]
Updating to FW 1.2.2
[Note: if you have a UK device, go to: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-dealing-with-non-us-aka-uk-devices-in-2021.4233411/ and return here to the "Kernals" section after completing option 3]
If your device is still on FW 1.2.1 you will need to do a manual update. In theory, you should be able to download the update zip from B&N (https://su.barnesandnoble.com/nook/nook2/1.2.2/351e26527e80156183e74be2da2ce89f/nook_1_2_update.zip), connect your NST/G to your PC via USB, copy the update zip to the "Nook" drive and wait. When the device sleeps, the update should be installed. If you come back later and look at the "Nook" drive and you don't see the update zip, it's done. You can check this by looking in the Settings app for the software version.
IF the theoretical procedure does not work for you, a deregistration might be in order. Since a device on FW 1.2.1 cannot deregister by contacting B&N servers (this is generally done via the Settings app), you will have to force a user data wipe. To do this, turn off the device. Power back on and as soon as you see the "Read Forever" screen, press and hold the two lower hardware buttons (page-turn buttons) until a prompt appears. Follow the on-screen directions. This will eventually leave you at the "Welcome" screen. Now attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip onto the "Nook" drive and wait for the update to occur. Again, if you come back later and you don't see the update zip listed on the "Nook" drive, you're done. At this point you can continue and register your device.
IF the second method was unsuccessful, there might be something messed up with the resident FW. In that case, the best course is to initiate a factory re-write of the entire system. The eight-failed-boot attempts is painful and often very frustrating, but NookManager can do the job in the push of a button. So if you are still having issues updating, proceed to the "Rooting" section below and prepare a NookManager card. Then power down your device, insert the NookManager card and power up. Skip WiFi turn on. The "Restore Factory zip" option is found under "Rescue". Follow the directions and after a reboot you will be at the "Welcome" screen on some unknown FW. Attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip to the "Nook" drive, and wait for the update to occur as described above. Once that has happened, continue on to registration.
Rooting
Go here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-updating-nookmanager-for-fw-1-2-2.3873048/ and choose whichever version of NookManager seems like it will best meet your needs. I strongly suggest you make a FW 1.2.2 registered backup before rooting (NookManager can do this). When your device is rooted and you have done some configuration on the possible launchers and/or file managers, return here to the next section, "Kernals".
Kernals
To be continued....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see you have already written a lot on the linked UK thread too, and that unfortunately shows me it's hard to find the right resources scattered over XDA. Nevermind.
I do indeed have a UK device running 1.2.1 so I shall follow your 1.2.2 upgrade guide. I actually factory reset and deregistered my device but retained a backup which I took with NookManager of the registered version so I guess I'll keep ahold of that and watch for more information on this thread!
nmyshkin said:
[I'm going to try to address your issues in this single post, but not all at once. I'll be adding things over the next few days. Since I don't know where in the process you are currently, just skip things you have already done]
Updating to FW 1.2.2
[Note: if you have a UK device, go to: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-dealing-with-non-us-aka-uk-devices-in-2021.4233411/ and return here to the "Kernals" section after completing option 3]
If your device is still on FW 1.2.1 you will need to do a manual update. In theory, you should be able to download the update zip from B&N (https://su.barnesandnoble.com/nook/nook2/1.2.2/351e26527e80156183e74be2da2ce89f/nook_1_2_update.zip), connect your NST/G to your PC via USB, copy the update zip to the "Nook" drive and wait. When the device sleeps, the update should be installed. If you come back later and look at the "Nook" drive and you don't see the update zip, it's done. You can check this by looking in the Settings app for the software version.
IF the theoretical procedure does not work for you, a deregistration might be in order. Since a device on FW 1.2.1 cannot deregister by contacting B&N servers (this is generally done via the Settings app), you will have to force a user data wipe. To do this, turn off the device. Power back on and as soon as you see the "Read Forever" screen, press and hold the two lower hardware buttons (page-turn buttons) until a prompt appears. Follow the on-screen directions. This will eventually leave you at the "Welcome" screen. Now attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip onto the "Nook" drive and wait for the update to occur. Again, if you come back later and you don't see the update zip listed on the "Nook" drive, you're done. At this point you can continue and register your device.
IF the second method was unsuccessful, there might be something messed up with the resident FW. In that case, the best course is to initiate a factory re-write of the entire system. The eight-failed-boot attempts is painful and often very frustrating, but NookManager can do the job in the push of a button. So if you are still having issues updating, proceed to the "Rooting" section below and prepare a NookManager card. Then power down your device, insert the NookManager card and power up. Skip WiFi turn on. The "Restore Factory zip" option is found under "Rescue". Follow the directions and after a reboot you will be at the "Welcome" screen on some unknown FW. Attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip to the "Nook" drive, and wait for the update to occur as described above. Once that has happened, continue on to registration.
Rooting
Go here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-updating-nookmanager-for-fw-1-2-2.3873048/ and choose whichever version of NookManager seems like it will best meet your needs. I strongly suggest you make a FW 1.2.2 registered backup before rooting (NookManager can do this). When your device is rooted and you have done some configuration on the possible launchers and/or file managers, return here to the next section, "Kernals".
Note: regarding your question about ssh and busybox, the latter is installed during rooting with NookManager. I'm really not familiar with ssh but I note that you can supposedly use it with NookManager running. There is some info on the opening screen where the WiFi option is located.
Kernals
The first kernal modification was for multi-touch to enable pinch-zoom for those apps that would support it on the NST. Every subsequent kernal has included this change.
Now it gets a little confusing. For practical purposes, only kernals based on at least FW 1.2.1 are of use. Earlier kernals do not understand glowlight control (you can work around this, but why bother?). So there are more or less three "modern" kernals for the NST/G, one without support for USB Host and two with USB Host support.
Kernal 166 (see attachment below) does not support USB Host but it does support both augmented display modes, NoRefresh and FastMode (with the appropriate apps installed). NoRefresh is an augment for flicker-free reading when scrolling in an app (like a webpage, for example) or when moving around on a PDF image. Based on the original development thread, this appears not to require kernal modification, only the installation and configuration of an app (link below). FastMode is an augment for, well, I guess for playing with video. It presents a highly dithered image (lots of tiny dots) in an attempt to simulate greater grey-scale. Initially it seems like a good idea (impressive coding, anyway) but it's not good at all for reading and there is a lot of ghosting in video until the screen is finally filled with swirls of dots in various states of visibility. At least that was my experience. FastMode requires both kernal modification and an app (link below). Kernal 166 is the only kernal that can run both display modes. Like all kernals that support FastMode it is overclocked, supposedly up to 1100 Mz, although I never saw it indicated more than 1000 Mz. When running it you probably should have a CPU governor app installed (download below), perhaps trim the CPU down to 800 Mz to help with battery life.
NoRefresh and FastMode both require apps to activate the display augments (not simultaneously). But the point of all this (since you want USB Audio) is to try to make clear(?) that any other kernal that supports FastMode kills NoRefresh (somehow). So, if you want USB Host/Audio (and you do) then you have to choose which display augment you want because you can't have both. That is not to say it's impossible (clearly kernal 166 shows that it is) but only that there is no existing kernal that makes it possible.
The two kernals which support USB Host probably have numbers. Maybe one of them is 174. But probably nobody knows at this point. The kernal in the CWM zip for enabling USB Audio (with all the nifty drivers) is an overclocked kernal that supports FastMode. If you would prefer to have access to NoRefresh instead of FastMode, you can use the kernal attached below (can't find the original link, so...). Just open the CWM USB Audio zip in something like WinRAR and drag the new kernal into the "boot" folder, replacing the file already there. Be sure to not recompress the file. Use the "store" or similar option when dragging into the opened archive.
Kernal installation can be done via adb. The directions for that are here. But since you have the CWM zip available and want to install all the audio stuff as well, the easiest path is via CWM. That means you need a card.
Download one of the two sdcard options from here and burn a card (do NOT install CWM internally on the NSTG! It will replace the fail-safe factory image!!). Then copy the zip with the kernal and audio drivers to the card and boot your NSTG from the CWM card. Install from the zip and you're good to go after a reboot. If you change your mind later about the kernal just swap in the one you want in the zip file and flash the whole package again.
Two details on this CWM USB Audio package: microphone recording is not entirely/correctly implemented in the files as supplied. If that is not important to you, skip to the next stuff. If you want to get it done right and then forget about it, you need to replace one of the files in the zip with a corrected version and you also need to copy a patched version of framework.jar into /system/framework. The zip of patches below contains the framework.jar and a file called alsa.default.so. You can use a file manager to copy the framework.jar into /system/framework. Be sure the permissions are set the same as the original (you can rename original to framework.jar.bak first, if you want). Then reboot.
As for the little alsa file, open the CWM USBAudio zip and navigate inside to system/lib/hw. You'll see the original file there. Drag the replacement over and be sure not to recompress it (i.e., use "store" or similar). Now the zip is good to go for a complete USB Audio installation including both playback and recording. Whew!
USB Audio
Of course, it's not that simple. There's no headphone jack or speakers. How does the audio come out?! You need two pieces of hardware (three, if you count earbuds/headphones---or a cable to attach to the auxiliary jack of your sound system) and some software.
USB Host in general requires the use of an OTG cable stub. This seems to be a very critical part of the arrangement. My first cable fit poorly and I almost gave up on the whole enterprise. A second one fit in the slightly non-standard USB jack like a hand in a glove. Suddenly it all worked! I can't tell you which cable might work for you. They are cheap (that's part of the problem...) and you may need to try more than one. Amazon, ebay, etc. Some are straight-line, others 90 degrees. What's important is a good fit. I'm not saying the example in the link above is a good fit. I got mine so long ago I have no idea where it came from. Probably ebay. Long gone.
Since the NSTG has no sound hardware, you need a USB-C external sound card device (here's another link to the button/LED kind--expired, but you get the idea). These also are not very expensive and can be found on Amazon or ebay. There are two basic designs. One has a bunch of LEDs that just waste battery power. It may also have volume control and/or other buttons. The other one is more spartan, lacking LEDs and buttons. I have one of each and never use with one with the LEDs.
To initiate USB Host or Audio you need at least one app (each). @Renate has produced an app for USB Host and an additional one for USB Audio. They can be downloaded from her signature page. Both are used to activate USB Audio. They are great for diagnostics but I just never have any issues with USB Host (that perfect plug!) so I wanted something that would be simpler. Just one touch. I made two small apps, one for USB Host (does not activate audio stuff) and one for USB Audio (sets up host and activates audio). The latest version of the USB Audio app places volume control buttons on the screen when in use, so you really don't need a device with volume buttons. My apps are found here. These routines are also included as options in my QuickTiles app.
ADB
You didn't specifically mention ADB so perhaps you are already fixed for that or maybe don't think you'll want it. There are certainly some things that are really only possible with ADB when you start getting down and dirty with the device. But a good file manager and/or terminal app can also do a lot of stuff without ADB. Still, if you don't have it, the easiest way to get just ADB and not the entire Android SDK is to download and install Minimal ADB and Fastboot. This is for Windows. If you're using a Mac, you're on your own.
The apps in your list
I'm going to try not to editorialize too much here, but some things may not work as well as they sound and there might be better alternatives to others, so...based on my experiences (and prejudices...).
Extended Power Menu (caution, "reboot to recovery" option goes straight to factory re-image without any chance to say no! A possible alternative, my Alternate Power Menu app)
AndroNook Settings (I had trouble with this and the stock B&N system; some settings don't seem to work, some cause a reboot. A possible alternative my Nook Settings app--not as tidy but full-featured)
UsbMode (this is the kernal thing and/or maybe the activating app--already covered above)
TuneIn Radio (still works great, available in the package of apps linked in my signature)
QQPlayer (@pinguy1982 posted this copy--MX Player w/codec pkg also is great--again in my app pack)
FastMode2 (app already linked above; needed to activate FastMode with supporting kernal)
Opera Mini (installed with the updated NookManager packages. Direct link to Opera archive)
AirDroid (also, if you use ES File Explorer it has a "remote manager" capability. Creates an FTP address. You type in the address in the Windows Explorer address bar and voila, you can move files back and forth via WiFi. Hard to get to, though, buried in the app settings, so I made a little app to access directly. Also available as an option in my QuickTiles app.
adbWireless (ADB Konnect is installed by NookManager. One drawback: for long sessions you need to extend screen timeout since connection seems to drop when screen goes into sleep mode)
Nook Clear Screen (I found this not very useful; maybe I have a greater tolerance for little screen artifacts. Also available as an option in my QuickTiles app.
Terminal Emulator (couldn't track this one down in the forum so I uploaded a copy below)
Stock Settings (well, this is what's on the device out-of-the-box!)
I think (hope) that covers everything you mentioned. I did see a reference to an app called DroidSSH while I was tracking down some of this stuff, but no link. If that's something you might find useful, you'll need to do a lot of Googling.
If there is anything else, or something here is not clear, give a holler.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looking very complete, thank you for the awesome work! I'm quite busy but I shall dedicate a couple hours before next week to go through this entire process.
I do have a questions which I think I know the answer to, but wanted to confirm: With NookManager, does it run its own OS from the SD Card, or does the normal internal Flash Storage OS load and then NookManager takes over?
Same with CWM - Does the whole device (properly) boot off of the SD card and not internal flash?
If they do boot off of the card, due to the bootloader (I assume UBoot from what I read, nice!) then that leaves a lot of custom linuxy opportunities available for a really lightweight Linux OS, though drivers might be a painpoint.
Thanks!
alexhorner said:
Looking very complete, thank you for the awesome work! I'm quite busy but I shall dedicate a couple hours before next week to go through this entire process.
I do have a questions which I think I know the answer to, but wanted to confirm: With NookManager, does it run its own OS from the SD Card, or does the normal internal Flash Storage OS load and then NookManager takes over?
Same with CWM - Does the whole device (properly) boot off of the SD card and not internal flash?
If they do boot off of the card, due to the bootloader (I assume UBoot from what I read, nice!) then that leaves a lot of custom linuxy opportunities available for a really lightweight Linux OS, though drivers might be a painpoint.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
According to my understanding, both NookManager and CWM boot directly from the sdcard. You can check the card contents, replete with its own uboot, mlo, etc. Similar set up as the CM 11 card.
nmyshkin said:
[I'm going to try to address your issues in this single post, but not all at once. I'll be adding things over the next few days. Since I don't know where in the process you are currently, just skip things you have already done]
Updating to FW 1.2.2
[Note: if you have a UK device, go to: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-dealing-with-non-us-aka-uk-devices-in-2021.4233411/ and return here to the "Kernals" section after completing option 3]
If your device is still on FW 1.2.1 you will need to do a manual update. In theory, you should be able to download the update zip from B&N (https://su.barnesandnoble.com/nook/nook2/1.2.2/351e26527e80156183e74be2da2ce89f/nook_1_2_update.zip), connect your NST/G to your PC via USB, copy the update zip to the "Nook" drive and wait. When the device sleeps, the update should be installed. If you come back later and look at the "Nook" drive and you don't see the update zip, it's done. You can check this by looking in the Settings app for the software version.
IF the theoretical procedure does not work for you, a deregistration might be in order. Since a device on FW 1.2.1 cannot deregister by contacting B&N servers (this is generally done via the Settings app), you will have to force a user data wipe. To do this, turn off the device. Power back on and as soon as you see the "Read Forever" screen, press and hold the two lower hardware buttons (page-turn buttons) until a prompt appears. Follow the on-screen directions. This will eventually leave you at the "Welcome" screen. Now attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip onto the "Nook" drive and wait for the update to occur. Again, if you come back later and you don't see the update zip listed on the "Nook" drive, you're done. At this point you can continue and register your device.
IF the second method was unsuccessful, there might be something messed up with the resident FW. In that case, the best course is to initiate a factory re-write of the entire system. The eight-failed-boot attempts is painful and often very frustrating, but NookManager can do the job in the push of a button. So if you are still having issues updating, proceed to the "Rooting" section below and prepare a NookManager card. Then power down your device, insert the NookManager card and power up. Skip WiFi turn on. The "Restore Factory zip" option is found under "Rescue". Follow the directions and after a reboot you will be at the "Welcome" screen on some unknown FW. Attach the device to your PC via USB, drag the update zip to the "Nook" drive, and wait for the update to occur as described above. Once that has happened, continue on to registration.
Rooting
Go here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/nst-g-updating-nookmanager-for-fw-1-2-2.3873048/ and choose whichever version of NookManager seems like it will best meet your needs. I strongly suggest you make a FW 1.2.2 registered backup before rooting (NookManager can do this). When your device is rooted and you have done some configuration on the possible launchers and/or file managers, return here to the next section, "Kernals".
Note: regarding your question about ssh and busybox, the latter is installed during rooting with NookManager. I'm really not familiar with ssh but I note that you can supposedly use it with NookManager running. There is some info on the opening screen where the WiFi option is located.
Kernals
The first kernal modification was for multi-touch to enable pinch-zoom for those apps that would support it on the NST. Every subsequent kernal has included this change.
Now it gets a little confusing. For practical purposes, only kernals based on at least FW 1.2.1 are of use. Earlier kernals do not understand glowlight control (you can work around this, but why bother?). So there are more or less three "modern" kernals for the NST/G, one without support for USB Host and two with USB Host support.
Kernal 166 (see attachment below) does not support USB Host but it does support both augmented display modes, NoRefresh and FastMode (with the appropriate apps installed). NoRefresh is an augment for flicker-free reading when scrolling in an app (like a webpage, for example) or when moving around on a PDF image. Based on the original development thread, this appears not to require kernal modification, only the installation and configuration of an app (link below). FastMode is an augment for, well, I guess for playing with video. It presents a highly dithered image (lots of tiny dots) in an attempt to simulate greater grey-scale. Initially it seems like a good idea (impressive coding, anyway) but it's not good at all for reading and there is a lot of ghosting in video until the screen is finally filled with swirls of dots in various states of visibility. At least that was my experience. FastMode requires both kernal modification and an app (link below). Kernal 166 is the only kernal that can run both display modes. Like all kernals that support FastMode it is overclocked, supposedly up to 1100 Mz, although I never saw it indicated more than 1000 Mz. When running it you probably should have a CPU governor app installed (download below), perhaps trim the CPU down to 800 Mz to help with battery life.
NoRefresh and FastMode both require apps to activate the display augments (not simultaneously). But the point of all this (since you want USB Audio) is to try to make clear(?) that any other kernal that supports FastMode kills NoRefresh (somehow). So, if you want USB Host/Audio (and you do) then you have to choose which display augment you want because you can't have both. That is not to say it's impossible (clearly kernal 166 shows that it is) but only that there is no existing kernal that makes it possible.
The two kernals which support USB Host probably have numbers. Maybe one of them is 174. But probably nobody knows at this point. The kernal in the CWM zip for enabling USB Audio (with all the nifty drivers) is an overclocked kernal that supports FastMode. If you would prefer to have access to NoRefresh instead of FastMode, you can use the kernal attached below (can't find the original link, so...). Just open the CWM USB Audio zip in something like WinRAR and drag the new kernal into the "boot" folder, replacing the file already there. Be sure to not recompress the file. Use the "store" or similar option when dragging into the opened archive.
Kernal installation can be done via adb. The directions for that are here. But since you have the CWM zip available and want to install all the audio stuff as well, the easiest path is via CWM. That means you need a card.
Download one of the two sdcard options from here and burn a card (do NOT install CWM internally on the NSTG! It will replace the fail-safe factory image!!). Then copy the zip with the kernal and audio drivers to the card and boot your NSTG from the CWM card. Install from the zip and you're good to go after a reboot. If you change your mind later about the kernal just swap in the one you want in the zip file and flash the whole package again.
Two details on this CWM USB Audio package: microphone recording is not entirely/correctly implemented in the files as supplied. If that is not important to you, skip to the next stuff. If you want to get it done right and then forget about it, you need to replace one of the files in the zip with a corrected version and you also need to copy a patched version of framework.jar into /system/framework. The zip of patches below contains the framework.jar and a file called alsa.default.so. You can use a file manager to copy the framework.jar into /system/framework. Be sure the permissions are set the same as the original (you can rename original to framework.jar.bak first, if you want). Then reboot.
As for the little alsa file, open the CWM USBAudio zip and navigate inside to system/lib/hw. You'll see the original file there. Drag the replacement over and be sure not to recompress it (i.e., use "store" or similar). Now the zip is good to go for a complete USB Audio installation including both playback and recording. Whew!
USB Audio
Of course, it's not that simple. There's no headphone jack or speakers. How does the audio come out?! You need two pieces of hardware (three, if you count earbuds/headphones---or a cable to attach to the auxiliary jack of your sound system) and some software.
USB Host in general requires the use of an OTG cable stub. This seems to be a very critical part of the arrangement. My first cable fit poorly and I almost gave up on the whole enterprise. A second one fit in the slightly non-standard USB jack like a hand in a glove. Suddenly it all worked! I can't tell you which cable might work for you. They are cheap (that's part of the problem...) and you may need to try more than one. Amazon, ebay, etc. Some are straight-line, others 90 degrees. What's important is a good fit. I'm not saying the example in the link above is a good fit. I got mine so long ago I have no idea where it came from. Probably ebay. Long gone.
Since the NSTG has no sound hardware, you need a USB-C external sound card device (here's another link to the button/LED kind--expired, but you get the idea). These also are not very expensive and can be found on Amazon or ebay. There are two basic designs. One has a bunch of LEDs that just waste battery power. It may also have volume control and/or other buttons. The other one is more spartan, lacking LEDs and buttons. I have one of each and never use with one with the LEDs.
To initiate USB Host or Audio you need at least one app (each). @Renate has produced an app for USB Host and an additional one for USB Audio. They can be downloaded from her signature page. Both are used to activate USB Audio. They are great for diagnostics but I just never have any issues with USB Host (that perfect plug!) so I wanted something that would be simpler. Just one touch. I made two small apps, one for USB Host (does not activate audio stuff) and one for USB Audio (sets up host and activates audio). The latest version of the USB Audio app places volume control buttons on the screen when in use, so you really don't need a device with volume buttons. My apps are found here. These routines are also included as options in my QuickTiles app.
ADB
You didn't specifically mention ADB so perhaps you are already fixed for that or maybe don't think you'll want it. There are certainly some things that are really only possible with ADB when you start getting down and dirty with the device. But a good file manager and/or terminal app can also do a lot of stuff without ADB. Still, if you don't have it, the easiest way to get just ADB and not the entire Android SDK is to download and install Minimal ADB and Fastboot. This is for Windows. If you're using a Mac, you're on your own.
The apps in your list
I'm going to try not to editorialize too much here, but some things may not work as well as they sound and there might be better alternatives to others, so...based on my experiences (and prejudices...).
Extended Power Menu (caution, "reboot to recovery" option goes straight to factory re-image without any chance to say no! A possible alternative, my Alternate Power Menu app)
AndroNook Settings (I had trouble with this and the stock B&N system; some settings don't seem to work, some cause a reboot. A possible alternative my Nook Settings app--not as tidy but full-featured)
UsbMode (this is the kernal thing and/or maybe the activating app--already covered above)
TuneIn Radio (still works great, available in the package of apps linked in my signature)
QQPlayer (@pinguy1982 posted this copy--MX Player w/codec pkg also is great--again in my app pack)
FastMode2 (app already linked above; needed to activate FastMode with supporting kernal)
Opera Mini (installed with the updated NookManager packages. Direct link to Opera archive)
AirDroid (also, if you use ES File Explorer it has a "remote manager" capability. Creates an FTP address. You type in the address in the Windows Explorer address bar and voila, you can move files back and forth via WiFi. Hard to get to, though, buried in the app settings, so I made a little app to access directly. Also available as an option in my QuickTiles app.
adbWireless (ADB Konnect is installed by NookManager. One drawback: for long sessions you need to extend screen timeout since connection seems to drop when screen goes into sleep mode)
Nook Clear Screen (I found this not very useful; maybe I have a greater tolerance for little screen artifacts. Also available as an option in my QuickTiles app.
Terminal Emulator (couldn't track this one down in the forum so I uploaded a copy below)
Stock Settings (well, this is what's on the device out-of-the-box!)
I think (hope) that covers everything you mentioned. I did see a reference to an app called DroidSSH while I was tracking down some of this stuff, but no link. If that's something you might find useful, you'll need to do a lot of Googling. (or maybe it was SSHDroid?
If there is anything else, or something here is not clear, give a holler.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kernel installed via CWM, USB audio working! Not a fan of FastMode and can't be bothered to mess with NoRefresh yet. Going to look at the OpenSSL stuff soon I think though.
Installing various apps from your list above and also your personal app list as linked in your signature, thank you once again!
HI, need some help please
I have a
- S98H Android TV box
- Android OS version 12
- Build 12.1.A5
- Kernel 5.4.125
- With BigdroidOS 2.0.1
- 6TB Seagate external drive
- USB stick
- SD Card
- Developer Options Enabled
- Unknown sources enabled
Problems:
a) In Tivimate app, Permissions, Files and videos, I only get 2 options 1- While using the app or 2- Never. How to I get "Allow All the Time"? All my other apps have it and work great with external drive. But Tivimate can't backup, restore or record on the Stick, SD Card or External drive because of this. On my other box (S96Q+) running Android 10 the option is there and all works great.
b) Nord and Express VPN install perfectly but crash when opened. Again, works great on the S96Q+ with no issues.
I tried flashing with a different firmware, one like on my S96Q+ but then the WIfi and the remote don't work.
Tried on 3 different boxes same model and build and all have the same problem so I know it's not the apps themselves. And installed on 5 different S96Q+ and all work like a charm.
Thanks in advance for any help that can be provided.
cirramqc said:
a) In Tivimate app, Permissions, Files and videos, I only get 2 options 1- While using the app or 2- Never. How to I get "Allow All the Time"? All my other apps have it and work great with external drive. But Tivimate can't backup, restore or record on the Stick, SD Card or External drive because of this. On my other box (S96Q+) running Android 10 the option is there and all works great.
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for tivimate app to fully work on S96Q+ and not fully work on S98H doesn't mean the app is perfectly fine, but it means the app is compatible with that version of Android (10) but isn't fully supported on Android 12, it could also have other reasons, but the first thing I would test is installing that tivimate on a totally different box with Android 12 and see what happens. or contact the tivimate dev to ask for compatibility issues with recording on Android 12.
but from your explanation, I don't believe this is a tvbox issue, but again I don't own both of these boxes, so I can't really say for sure.
a bit of info: it's a general rule with nearly all OSs, Android, Windows, Linux, Mac whatever it is, the higher version, the more secure the developers design it. This can give you a slight explanation of why it may work on an older version of Android but doesn't on a newer version.
cirramqc said:
b) Nord and Express VPN install perfectly but crash when opened. Again, works great on the S96Q+ with no issues.
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Again that still sounds like a compatibility issue with the Android version, I would suggest you contact Nord and Express VPN for support, they're both usually very responsive/helpful, I used them both in the past ;‑)
There is a more complex way to figure out why those apps are crashing, link your tvbox to a computer, install Android Studio on the computer, and turn on logs to watch for a reason why those apps or any apps crash.
Here's the Solution to Backup Tivimate files to ONN android device. Create a folder using Es File Explorer or AnExplorer Then create a folder in
/sdcard/Android/media/ CALLED THIS ar.tvplayer.tv