Delete File in Windows Mobile 6 - Upgrading, Modifying and Unlocking

Hi, how can I delete a file in \Windows folder? it seems complaining that the file is in ROM, I had tried many way even using other File Explorer or via ActiveSync. None of them work.
How can I delete a file in \Windows folder in my Microsoft Windows Mobile 6?

Maybe Resco Explorer or Total Commander CE will help.

if it's built in the rom, you might be unable to delete that file.
Please be more specific: which file do you wish to delete?
Maybe you'd have to recook the ROM without that file.
Regards,
EquinoXe

Things built into the rom are "READ ONLY MEMORY" therefore cannot be deleted. if the file is only marked as system and readonly though you can change its atributes using total commander. just long click on item to bring up menu and go to properties. there you need to uncheck everything and delete

I had downloaded Total Commander and installed it, the checked file attributes are 'read only' and 'in rom'; so I guess the file shall be consider undeleteable.
Now I had to learn how to recook, any good guide how can I recook the ROM that I have?

similar problem
I downloaded some software and it came up as being faulty software. The file was a zip folder titled : res_ppc-custom.icons
I tried through my windows mobile device center to uninstall it, but it was never actually installed completely in the first place.
I then tried to delete the file a few times. Once directly from my pda, once through the device center and again through my pc windows explorer. All three attempts were unsuccessful.
How can I get rid of this thing?
Thanks in advance

perhaps you may want to check if the file being accessed by other software, easiest way is to soft reset and try to delete it.

That did the trick! Thanks so much

Move files to storage card
OK I want to move some files (not ROM) in Windows and keep getting error. For example Opera.exe is not marked as anything in properties yet I can't seem to delete the file. I did copy it to my storage card without any issue but can't delete the original from Windows directory. Any suggestions since Total Commander won't delete it. Will edit registry to find it on the Storage Card.

Deleting files in Windows folder
mynullvoid said:
Hi, how can I delete a file in \Windows folder? it seems complaining that the file is in ROM, I had tried many way even using other File Explorer or via ActiveSync. None of them work.
How can I delete a file in \Windows folder in my Microsoft Windows Mobile 6?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same problem - I have colpilot.wm6ppc.cab in my Windows directory. It's 12.6mb, I don't want it, and it's taking up a lot of storage space. My phone is a T-Mobile MDA and it obviously came with CoPilot as an option, but I think it's really unfair that the cab is right there in the Windows dir and I can't get rid of it....
Any help gratefully received....
Cheers,
Ed.

The cab is cooked in as part of the rom; there's nothing you can do about it, except flash a custom rom (this is one of the main reasons people flash custom roms). Be glad it was installed as a cab and not as a full package-at least cabs are compressed are a single file.

Farmer Ted said:
The cab is cooked in as part of the rom; there's nothing you can do about it, except flash a custom rom (this is one of the main reasons people flash custom roms). Be glad it was installed as a cab and not as a full package-at least cabs are compressed are a single file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the issue is not on the files in ROM.
I have the same problem. I've copied a file under Windows folder and after that I'm unable to delete it.
Strangely I'm able to rename it, which should mean that file is not in use, however deletion is not possible.
I've used TotalCommander, the built-in Explorer and also connected the phone via ActiveSync, but still nothing happens and access seems to be denied.
The exact message is "deletion error".
Any idea?
Thanks.
Cheers...
-nOra-

A very common problem with Windows explorer is reported on all Windows help forums. I've seen people complaining about problem with long path files deletion.
Some common problems with Windows Explorer people talk about:
- Doesn't allow to delete files with long path names
- Pops up error while deleting unwanted files or unnecessary files
- Errors like: Access denied, sharing violation, source in use etc.
I've found a very simple but smart solution for all these above mentioned common problems. A very simple but powerful tool to overcome these problems. Everyone who plays with the files must have this tool. Its compatible with all versions of Microsoft Windows.

johnylog.software said:
A very common problem with Windows explorer is reported on all Windows help forums. I've seen people complaining about problem with long path files deletion.
Some common problems with Windows Explorer people talk about:
- Doesn't allow to delete files with long path names
- Pops up error while deleting unwanted files or unnecessary files
- Errors like: Access denied, sharing violation, source in use etc.
I've found a very simple but smart solution for all these above mentioned common problems. A very simple but powerful tool to overcome these problems. Everyone who plays with the files must have this tool. Its compatible with all versions of Microsoft Windows.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you please tell us the name of this wonderfull tool, and how to have?

djulen said:
Could you please tell us the name of this wonderfull tool, and how to have?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Based on how he said it, I have to really wonder if he really does have such a tool...

badbwoydes said:
Based on how he said it, I have to really wonder if he really does have such a tool...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use Total Commander to modify the contents of the \Windows directory.

Yes, but you won't be able to delete a ROM file anyway.
In the \Windows folder, you commonly encounter three kinds of files :
- Pure ROM files (can't be deleted nor renamed nor moved, nor even copied, but can be overwritten, consuming internal storage memory space in the process to store the new copy, that will become used instead) ;
- Files put there by installation CABs or else (can be freely deleted, renamed or moved, provided they're not currently used by a running process) ;
- Files put on top of previously existing ROM files, wearing the same name (deleting, renaming or moving them will thus make the original ROM file undertneath to reappear with its original contents and attributes).
Once you've understood that, you'll be more aware of what's cooking there.
ROM files can't even be copied, but you can use ROMExtractor to copy them elsewhere, in case you want to study them, or use them in your own ROM (useful to get up-to date versions from another HTC device to cook your own ROM).
Since ROMExtractor is a very minimalistic tool (you have to type in all the files names with their path, same for the target copy, all one by one !) manually extracting hundreds (even thousands) of files is a very tedious taks, I made a MortScript to automate the process in order to extract all those DLLs, EXEs, MUIs, etc. files that can't be directly copied from a phone's ROM.
On the other hand, you absolutely can't delete a ROM file to make room. Overwriting it with a file wearing the same name will jut result in actually adding the new file, thus consuming even more room. The new file will just be used instead of the original one (so you can still update or personalize the ROM).
As a direct consequence, the only way to get rid of unwanted ROM files or permanently replacing them with up-to-date ones is to cook a ROM and flash it to the device to replace the old one.
That's way how operating systems can become better and better, and save space at the same time.
And no, Windows Mobile isn't dead : I'm not quite finished with fixing it until it's perfect, so it's not over yet. LOL

Related

Newbie question: getting CAB files from exe

Hello,
I would like to know how can I extract the .cab files from an exe file that is an application installer (the exe should be run on the PC).
I think that the active sync saves a copy of the cab files, but I am not sure. If using activesync is the only way, it's fine, but I prefer a method that does not install the software first and it does not involve activesync.
Thank you,
Eran
Well it really depends on the application, there is not always one answer that fits all things.
You can try using a program like WinRAR and right click on the PC exe, you may see an option to extract the files, if you do chances are you'll gain access to the cab files. Things like the ROM updates work this way.
Sometimes this method doesn't work. Then you may need to install the program on your PC. You'll need to look on your C drive for the folder the program creates, generally this will be with in the C:\Program Files\ folder or the C:\Program Files\Microsoft Activesync\ folder. This folder can be easy or hard to find.
Another method is to set Pocket File explorer to "Show all files" (you'll need to tap and hold on the white space at the bottom of the page, and select this option from the menu that pops up.) Then go to \My Device\Windows\AppMgr\Install\ and wait for the file to appear here when you first install it. Note that in WM5 you are generally asked if you wish to install the program, DO NOT ANSWER THIS QUESTION instead go to pocket file explorer and look at the \My Device\Windows\AppMgr\Install\ folder your cab should be here, after it is installed it will be deleted from this folder and some times cabs are partly deleted in the install process. (it maybe necessary to install two or more programs at the same time to get a working copy of your program cab file.
DAH

how to change files in windows directory

I connect universal to my pc w/ usb and want to rename/delete files in windows directory. It told me some pemmisson error. How can I do such things?
I can create new folds in the directory.
Seems a new bie question. thanks in advance.
Files in the windows folder are generally ROM files, so you can't really delete them, they'll just come back from ROM when you reset.
So - you can use the old technique, normally, of using something like gsfinder, rename the file you want to change, eg ctlpnl.exe to ctlpnl.orig, then copy a new file into the windows folder and rename it to ctlpnl.exe.
That works well with some files, but not all.
To do some heavy duty modding, you would have to make your own rom. Find RomTools by Mamaich.
V
But I can't rename any files belong to original rom. When I use GSfinder to rename the file, it also reported "Cannot rename file.". I checked the property of the file, it has "rom" property and the checkbox of "rom" property is gray.
How?
I attached a jpg file when I want to change the name of "smartdialing.dll".
My device info:
ROM: 1.30.111 WWE
Radio: 1.11.00
Protocal: 42.45.P8
ExtROM: 1.30.230 WWE
T-Mobile Germany version
As you say, if it's a proper ROM file that wants to be stubborn (it may already be in use. Try closing the app using a good task manager first) then your other option could just be burning a new rom.
Why do you need to rename it?
V
vijay555 said:
As you say, if it's a proper ROM file that wants to be stubborn (it may already be in use. Try closing the app using a good task manager first) then your other option could just be burning a new rom.
Why do you need to rename it?
V
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems that's not the reason. I can't even rename a htm or gif file with ROM property.
I want to localize smartdialing.dll.
Thanks for your quick response!
I think there's already a tutorial/solution to a localized smartdialler.
Can't remember the poster, check Buzz's site.
V
yes, I want to create a Chinese version of smartdialing based on their tutorial.
However, I tried to replace the original dll with my modified one, and FAILED. That's really troublesome. Seems nobody else has the same issue as mine.
Got a simular problem.
I'm trying to install OZVGA and according to the instructions you need to copy some files (Backlight.exe Camera.exe etc.) into the windows directory, but i'm not allowed to do so. Files are read only or in use.
Some suggestions?
Use TotalCommander.
ady said:
Use TotalCommander.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
useless.
Any one knows why?
I had the ozvga issue. I installed the extended ROM unlocker (from buzzdev.net I think) and then it let me replace them.
Hope this helps.
Coincidentally, I've just upgraded to the latest T-Mobile ROM and need to re-apply ozvga but I can't find the files/instructions anymore. Got a link handy?

Changing Files in Windows Dir

Hi,
I flashed a new ROM and now I want to change sym.txt in \windows dir, but it's read-only and I can't change that.
How can I write in this directory?
Thanks!
use Total Commander
nope - totalcommander cannot access the ROM, as i am informed. So some files will stay. I don't know yet how to break into on HTC 4350 (Herald)...
If this file is part of ROM you can not change it without cooking a new ROM.
What you can do it overwrite it. The new file will actually be stored on the storage memory but because it has the same name and path as the ROM file the system will go to it instead of the original. At least until you hard reset your device.
levenum said:
If this file is part of ROM you can not change it without cooking a new ROM.
What you can do it overwrite it. The new file will actually be stored on the storage memory but because it has the same name and path as the ROM file the system will go to it instead of the original. At least until you hard reset your device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried that, it works. Although now the function of this file doesn't work anymore (translation of certain characters by pressing "dot" and "space" on the hardware keyboard of the HTC TyTn).
After editing the file and overwriting the original, nothing happens when I press dot+space...
That is because you ruined the signature (by editing an original file) or used an unsigned file.
All system files in WM 5 and up must be signed.
levenum said:
That is because you ruined the signature (by editing an original file) or used an unsigned file.
All system files in WM 5 and up must be signed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh I see. Thanks for the information. Can I somehow sign it myself?
Yes, the WM 5 / 6 SDKs contain the tools and sample signatures, but you need to "provision" your device (put the signature in so it will be recognized).
If you do a search on this forum you will find all the info you need.

How do I overwrite a file "in ROM memory"?

There are a number of TP2 tweaks which require the editing or replacement of files - for example, there is supposedly a way of increasing the loudspeaker volume which involves replacing a file called AudioPara3.csv with an edited version. This file sits in the Windows folder.
I'm using Resco File Explorer on my TP2, with the corresponding shell extensions installed on my desktop Windows, but nothing I do will allow me to edit that file. Trying to overwrite it (by dragging the copy into the appropriate Explorer window on my desktop PC) fails, telling me that I don't have the necessary permissions. If I look at the file properties on my TP2, it's set to read-only. If I try clearing the read-only checkbox this looks as if it's going to work, but actually if I go back into properties again, it's still set to read-only. There's another (disabled) checkbox in the properties labeled "ROM" which is ticked - I assume it's this that is causing the problem.
I've also tried renaming the file - that, again, appears to work but what it actually does is to create a duplicate of the file with the new name while leaving the old file intact.
There must presumably be a way of overwriting this file, otherwise no one would have been able to install the tweak!
I have a similar problem with the weather database file - so I can't add in extra locations.
What am I missing?
Try doing it on the TP2 itself with Resco File Explorer. I do not have any problem so far. Not too sure when you use it on the desktop.
weenween said:
Try doing it on the TP2 itself with Resco File Explorer. I do not have any problem so far. Not too sure when you use it on the desktop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several options in Resco File Explorer failed, but using the Copy To option worked, for some reason.
Don't think it actually made the speakers any louder, though.
You can also try Total Commander (not like it'll make the speakers louder, but for future reference).
Total Commander will work OR you can rename the original file, then copy the new one in.
I recommend (strongly!) the former since if you screw up you can fix it without a hard reset!
What is wrong with this file?
Hello,
I'd like to ask for some expert help.
I finally managed to edit an EXE file from Windows - just translating Japanese text to English. I used the MEditor suite. After saving, I "dropped" the file onto the SignCode.exe as per instructions.
When I transferred the file to its original location and overwrote the original one, I get:
"Cannot open... A critical component is either missing or cannot start because program memory is unavailable...."
I am sure I didn't change anything else but texts. So what could be wrong?
I am attaching the two files - the original and the edited - for someone to please look at them and let me know if there's anything I can do. This is Sharp's Barcode Reader.exe
Thanks!

Unable to copy file from Windows dir

There's this task manager program that is included with the e2 ROM that I have not been able to find anywhere else. It's simple, fast, and to me the best way to switch tasks on WinMo.
\Windows\taskmgr.exe
So I figured I could simply copy the exe out of the Windows dir and stick it on my SD card for use with other ROMS.
Apparently I was wrong.
I cannot for the life of me figure a way to copy this file to any other location. Every time I try to copy it with Total Commander, I get a dialog telling me that a file of the same name with a size of 0 bytes already exists in the destination directory. When I click the overwrite button, it simply says "Unable to copy/move file". Afterwards when checking the destination directory for the reported existence of this file, I find nothing.
When trying to copy it off the phone in desktop Windows explorer, it simply says "Access denied".
I made sure that the file was not currently running before trying to copy.
Some files are able to be copied outside the Windows dir without issue, but I noticed there were many others that had this same problem.
So is this even possible? Is this an issue with all files that come built into the ROM? If so is there any way around it?
If not it would be a shame because I really miss this simple program when running other ROMS.
(and no offence to the e2 ROM, it is one of the best I've used, I just like flashing new ROMS every other day or so...)
Sorry I misread your post. I have nothing to say sorry.
I put the files path near the top of the first post:
\Windows\taskmgr.exe
Its title while running is simply Task Manager. Obviously there are many other task managers that take on the same name, some even with the same filename.
Not sure how else to differentiate it. In the handful of different ROMS I've tried, I've only found this specific program in e2 (both Sense 2.5 and 2.1 versions in fact).
The program itself is merely a list of tasks with the columns Application, Mem, and CPU. The right softkey is labeled Menu and has options to End All Tasks, view either Applications or Processes, sort by the various columns, refresh, and exit. The left softkey is labeled End Task and has the appropriate functionality.
I realize other task managers would seem to duplicate the functionality of this one. For various reasons I like this the best (mostly because it can be easily controlled entirely with the keyboard without any need to tap the screen, and because it does exactly what I need it to do and nothing more, there's always dotfred's application if I need more powerful task managing capabilities).
Wish I knew more!
mrbox23 said:
Sorry I misread your post. I have nothing to say sorry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, just glad someone noticed!
dotfred taskmanager is probably what it is
Nope, I have and use dotfred's task manager, it's a great program but is overkill if all you want to do is switch tasks.
I've attached a screenshot of the program.
But really, I should have probably phrased my question better. This is not so much about the specific application, as it is about finding a way to copy ROM files out of the Windows directory. There are many other files with this issue, taskmgr.exe just happens to be the one I want.
Of course if someone knew of a standalone version of this app that would be great, but I somehow doubt such a thing exists. It seems unique to the e2 ROM (I have posted in the e2 ROM thread as well).

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