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hi guys,
I've been following all the different threads and topics for a while and it has been a very nice friendly place to be in.
Anyhow.. i would like to know if someone can direct me to how to make a cab file which will input all my setting, owner name, install program a, b, c, d, e, f, g and etc then will fix up the registry key and enter all the serials i have brought in the past. This way i don't have to reinstall each program (both cab and exe) again after upgrade the ROM
I'musing Black 2.5 atm and looking forward to get balck 3 today
Thanks guys
Ditto!
I think such app would be very useful for all of us beta testers
Or taster of new flavours!
Maybe our chefs already has something like this that they use!
Some are in the works
JJ and walshieau are working on projects similar to this.
JJ has "Pimp my Black" which is HTweakC on steriods and walshieau is building an app that will restore your carrier settings.
Loading apps back on are easy, as long as you sync with a PC. They never uninstall from your PC, just simply re-check the ones you want to reload on your device and there they are again.
Backup programs like SPB and Sprite have known issues between builds, as I'm sure you know since you posted as if you've read the forums on this subject. Kudos.
It would be really cool if JJ and walshieau would combine forces and make that one killer app for all customizations to be saved to a file and restored once flashed, and if a customization were to have a format or length issue, then toss an error and let the user know. (hint, program spec??? )
I keep a backup on storage card of each of the roms I've tried...just in case.....I wonder if this is misguided somehow.
Thanks.
This is my current method:
put all the cab files (inc carrier setting -offline by walshieau) in the storage card and also along with all the serial numbers in there.
I tended to do things on the go (out of the house/ no pc) so if i happened to flash my phone before i leave my house then i will be able to install all the apps back by the time i get to work. Altho it's a lengthy instalaltion process (swapping the apps, folder, serial number, folder, app, enter rego).
i actually i was going to ask so if SPB backup and other back up will not work properly right? Say, i am using black 2.5 and backup here.... then upgrade to black 3 version then if i use restore program.. it will restore me back to 2.5 instad of 3 ... is this information correct? i read it somewhere....
I used SBP backup on Black 2.0 and then flashed 2.5 and restored from the 2.0 backup. It worked and shows the new com manager skin but it reports as 2.0 in the "about" screen so I know that this isn't the right way to go. Knowing that 3.0 was comming soon and considering that the device works great I've left it this way.
When 3.0 comes out I will load my apps and data without SBP. Then after it's up I will make a backup of the fresh 3.0 installation.
i am interested in such tools too although using the Dopod D810 aka Trinity.
RemE said:
I used SBP backup on Black 2.0 and then flashed 2.5 and restored from the 2.0 backup. It worked and shows the new com manager skin but it reports as 2.0 in the "about" screen so I know that this isn't the right way to go. Knowing that 3.0 was comming soon and considering that the device works great I've left it this way.
When 3.0 comes out I will load my apps and data without SBP. Then after it's up I will make a backup of the fresh 3.0 installation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using Sprite 5.1 and it does the backup and migration from Black 2.0 to 2.5 very well only have to redo my Wifi and Email settings, all my apps works fine. The FAQ to do it is available at Sprite's website on doing devie upgrade or OS upgrades with Sprite and WM5, works fine with WM6
Be aware that SPB Backup and Sprite Backup cant restore backups on different ROM's. Mobile Backup 2007 says it can but I havent tried it yet..
Dunno if I can post the follwing link but its the place you can get Mobile Backup:
http://www.ipmart-forum.com/showthread.php?t=157755&highlight=mobile+backup
I have Sprite but last time I used it on WM5 after a hard reset, it would not restore my data So I dumped it and went with SPB which has worked flawlessly ever since. I just don't see how any backup would work properly when restoring onto a different rom, I got away with it but I know that it's not 100% right now.
i was thinking of making my own cab file where specific to install
A, B, C, D....... G software (cab files), then install carrier setting, patch all the serial numbers to each softwares, change the look and all the setting in WM6 to match my like... damn it sound so hard and i don't even know how to make a cab file...
is something like this possible to learn?
I am slowly reducing the number of cabs I need to keep on my storage card by combining and creating them with my set ups.
As I have limited knowledge, this involves using sktracker to see exactly what changes were made in the registry when I changed a setting, and then using cabmanager to create a cab containing the reg settings (or say for spb weather, adding the changes to the original cab).
I understand that patching in the serials is not straightforward as it is not meant to be easy by design.
Am having trouble with some settings like email account setup, but am working through others.
crazyC: Im having the same trouble with email accounts. It doesnt look like they are saved in the registry settings, must be in the database somewhere.
Also if you add your own registry settings to the original Cab files do you know what order things are done? ie. if it writes your reg file then installs the app it might overwrite yours.
senergy said:
crazyC: Im having the same trouble with email accounts. It doesnt look like they are saved in the registry settings, must be in the database somewhere.
Also if you add your own registry settings to the original Cab files do you know what order things are done? ie. if it writes your reg file then installs the app it might overwrite yours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I don't know anything about creating the database entries so am going to have to leave that.
As for the second point - I am kind of winging it so to speak, so no I don't realy know.....
As I said, am most pleased with my custom SPB weather cab, as this installs the BBC template and sets up my work and home locations as the two tabs, linking off the bbc weather source.
Have also modified the Phone Alarm cab for my skin and settings, but as there is anew beta every few days at the mo, not so useful
Am about to start work on O2 plus, and setting up my shortcuts etc on install.
looking for mobile backup 2007...is this the one
trial here
CrazyC-
been messing around with the same ideas and it's driving me crazy ha.. Do you have to manually duplicate the registry entries you want when you're adding them to the original cab file (phone alarm, for instance)?
I was trying to extract the relevant registry entries, and have a program that would let me pack them into a cab, but everything i found wanted me to manually create registry keys..
any thoughts? cause it's flashing season ha
The safest way when going between ROMs is reinstalling. I use a few techniques.
1. Install CAB files from SD card. Then you just install them one by one by tapping. Installing from Activesync can be problematic memorywise as the CAB will copy down to main memory and then be deleted after installation. This can be an issue if you have too many apps to install at once.
2. Unless the new ROM has the same device ID, email settings really have to be manually entered each time. I experimented with workarounds but they simply don't work.
3. After you install all your programs, import registry keys containing your common settings. Before erasing the previous setting, do a registry dump and then search for and find those registry keys that contain the settings. Most (but not all) are in HKEY Current User. Be careful. Don't import stuff that might break the new ROM.
4. Copy files or shortcuts from old ROM to new one. Careful though - if you are going to copy directories, use Total Commander or something. SPB Backup and WM File Explorer will REMOVE the old contents of a directory and replace it with only the stuff you have in your new copy of the directory! Total Commander only updates the new items.
5. Unfortunately, the only way to REMOVE files or registry keys (short of writing a DLL file or fancy XML?) is to manually search and delete them. I think you could probably use Mortscript to automate this but not worth the time probably unless you are flashing every day.
Between copying certain files and registries, many of my programs end up 'pre registered' on the new system. (SPB time, etc.)
Actually, I make a cab file with my preferred settings and files. I just click and go. This covers pretty much everything except email. Unfortunately the program I use cost 89$... but when I consider my billable hours, it's worth the saved time over the long run.
I can get all programs + settings in place in about 40 minutes now.
Actually, I am using visual studio 2005 and making the adjustments to the emulator image, whilst watching the registry in the remote registry viewer. Once have identified the keys, I export them as reg files and then simply import them into cabmanager.
Depends on if you have access to VS2005.
I am sure there is a simpler way, (and am happy to learn it) but as I have occassional access to VS2005, this was how I decided to do it. Am using the WM6 SDK as well of course.
Because I keep updating the Phone Alarm beta, I actually modified the cab for the VisDaPhone skin to include my modified icons, and also to install the PA export file. Just running that cab after installing Phone alarm, and then importing the theme etc works for me. I did roll it all into one on an earlier version of PA, so it all started as per my settings, but then there was a new beta......
khammo01 said:
I can get all programs + settings in place in about 40 minutes now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I reckon (thanks to the exchange server) I can be back up in twenty!
If I can sort out the O2plus setup then I will reduce that as well.
I keep a word document on my sd card with a step by step guide for myself with serial numbers etc and settings.
khammo01 said:
Between copying certain files and registries, many of my programs end up 'pre registered' on the new system. (SPB time, etc.)
Actually, I make a cab file with my preferred settings and files. I just click and go. This covers pretty much everything except email. Unfortunately the program I use cost 89$... but when I consider my billable hours, it's worth the saved time over the long run.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do yo mind telling what's the program name/url that woul dbe?
Gentlemen,
There is a wonderful amount of kitchens available for people to use however; the instructions are varied and confusing, especially if you are new. I have read many manuals on cooking ROMs and they all seem to be for a more experienced cook, and not a n00b. I have unlocked, and flash my HTC wiz200 myself by reading the threads, but I cannot wrap my head around a lot of the instructions poster by the great chefs we have on this site.
Is it possible for an experienced cook to produce a well put together manual for all to understand? The instructions I have read are based a lot on the assumption that the reader is well versed in the understanding and mechanics of a ROM. That is to say they have experienced extracting files, creating CAB files and, most importantly, the way a ROM needs to be structured with HKEYs and the like.
I truly believe that the community has an opportunity to expand the quality and diversity of the ROMs in the world by putting together a concise instruction manual.
I may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but I’m not a box of rocks.
Actually, most of the ROM kitchens are not near as complicated as you think they are. In most of the kitchens (can't say all since I haven't tried all of them) you don't have to do any of those things that you mentioned. I have my own cooked ROM and I don't know how to do any of those things either. The only time you do have to do that kind of stuff is if you decide to add something that doesn't already exist in the kitchen and since most of them have pretty much anything you'd want in them, if there actually is something else you really want it's a lot easier to install it after you've already cooked your rom and flashed it to your phone.
Personally, this is my favorite kitchen and the one I cooked my most recent ROM with - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=311144.
You'll need to pick a ROM and an OEM version and then download and extract them to the same folder and then click on the exe that says Build OS and it will let you pick and choose what you want to add to your ROM.
That will get you started, but there is a little more to it (nothing difficult at all), but the instructions are on the kitchen page anyway. I'd detail more, but I just realised I'm going to be late for work if I do. PLay with that for now if you want and if you have any more ?'s I'll try to answer them for you after work if someone else hasn't already answered them.
xeno1 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=311144.
PLay with that for now if you want and if you have any more ?'s I'll try to answer them for you after work if someone else hasn't already answered them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL that's one of the kitchens that i have tried. And the reason i want to know more is because i do want to add programs into the ROM saving so space.
It seems that there are other people interested in clear instructions as this thread has been viewed quite a bit in the short time i have posted it.
If you've come to this thread looking for clear instructions, please make a post of "instruct me" so the cooks will know how much of a need there really is.
And thanks for adding your assistance, should i need it.
xeno1 said:
Personally, this is my favorite kitchen and the one I cooked my most recent ROM with - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=311144.
You'll need to pick a ROM and an OEM version and then download and extract them to the same folder and then click on the exe that says Build OS and it will let you pick and choose what you want to add to your ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the kitchen i was looking at i downloaded all the files it says to download and i clicked on build rom.. but theres a lot of things on there that i can choose to have and not.. but theres a lot of this i dnt know wat they are or wat they do.. and than ive been trying to get ride of Arcesoft SMS and i cant.. and i downloaded the tmobile applications from the post.. but i dnt know wat to do with that either.. that's y i need good instrutions...
ps. instruct me
Give me a little time to see if I can't remember how to add apps into the kitchen. It's been a few months since I've done that kind of thing and I don't quite remember exactly how to do it. If I remember right it wasn't too excessively difficult. It's a whole lot easier just to use what's already included in the kitchen and then add other things by cab file afterwards though.
I'm not really sure why it would save that much space cooking it in to the ROM rather than adding it by cab, especially if you delete the cab file afterwards or move it to your SD card. The ROM I just cooked ended up having more than 44 Mb of program storage left afterwards and even after adding everything else that I wanted, it still has more than 32 Mb left.
I know what you mean when you said that there were some things in the kitchen that you didn't know what they were to know if you wanted to add them or not smileyaj2005. The things that I wasn't sure what they were I just googled for and found out what they were and whether or not I wanted to add them.
BuildOS.exe
xeno1,
here's another reason to have a clear manual:
Is anyone getting the following applicaion error, or know how to solve the following:
BuildOS.exe - Application Error
The Application faild to initalize properly (0x0000135). Click on OK to terminate the application
This is from the kitchen you recomended.
I too have been tinkering with cooking for several devices (the wonderful Hermes, the useful Herald, the workhorse Wizard and the good old Prophet) and while I've been successful in creating ROMs, there is a lot that I would like to understand better... I've searched but I've not found sufficient info in the time I've had to gain a full understanding.
I'm keen to first understand and then write a wiki guide to the structure of ROMs, the steps in going from an image to the individual files and back, how packages are built, etc. While much of this info exists, it's scattered all over this site and very difficult for people with limited time to find.
Also, this works needs much help from the chefs here. Would one or two of them volunteer to help me write all this up in a manner that makes everything clear to the tech savvy beginner?
I've gained much from this community and want to do something useful in return. And since my forte is technology and I can write well (I think!), I hope that I can make a Wiki Guide that will be useful to all.
Oh great chefs! Do we have some volunteers who can help us in this task?
SayMobile said:
I too have been tinkering with cooking for several devices (the wonderful Hermes, the useful Herald, the workhorse Wizard and the good old Prophet) and while I've been successful in creating ROMs, there is a lot that I would like to understand better... I've searched but I've not found sufficient info in the time I've had to gain a full understanding.
I'm keen to first understand and then write a wiki guide to the structure of ROMs, the steps in going from an image to the individual files and back, how packages are built, etc. While much of this info exists, it's scattered all over this site and very difficult for people with limited time to find.
Also, this works needs much help from the chefs here. Would one or two of them volunteer to help me write all this up in a manner that makes everything clear to the tech savvy beginner?
I've gained much from this community and want to do something useful in return. And since my forte is technology and I can write well (I think!), I hope that I can make a Wiki Guide that will be useful to all.
Oh great chefs! Do we have some volunteers who can help us in this task?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm right there with you. At my job i'm currently macking training guides that are easy to understand, even if you've never heard of them before. It's quite the task but, it benifets everyone.
evangelious8152 said:
BuildOS.exe - Application Error
The Application faild to initalize properly (0x0000135). Click on OK to terminate the application
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to update your .NET framework. Just run windows update or download the newest version from Microsoft.
I'm still working on how to add software to your kitchen. I'll figure it out sooner or later though. It might actually be faster if you just ask mfrazzz, mattk_r, or farria themselves in one of their kitchen threads. I'm in no way claiming to be a great chef of any kind, I've only cooked a few ROM's and those were from kitchens one of those "great chefs" built. I will still do my best to figure out how to add apps to the kitchen though and let you know.
Notice: this information is for Wizard kitchens only as I don't know if it will work in any other type of kitchen. This thread should actually be in the Wizard forum, but I didn't start the thread. All those following it, if it disappears from this forum, which it probably will, try to find it there.
Ok, here's what I've got so far on how to add your own apps to the kitchen:
First, you have to install the app on your phone in whatever OS you're using now.
Second, you then have to extract every file from your phone that it just installed and put it in a folder on your computer.
Third, extract all of the registry keys that it installed. For now, just put them in a txt file in the same folder. Later you will need those keys to create a .rgu file.
Thanks to meschle (and BenThon, the creator of this app) you can download this app - http://www.codeppc.com/telechargemen...nf/msceinf.htm and it will extract any .cab file into a file on your computer that you can use instead of having to install it to your ppc and then finding all of the files as in the first 2 steps. It will also show you the registry keys so you can copy them in to the .rgu file instead of having to go through your registry and finding them as in the third step.
Now, go to http://www.famkruithof.net/uuid/uuidgen and get a GUID. As soon as you go to the page one will be generated for you at the top of the page. Here's one that was generated for me 04987fe2-31a8-11dc-8314-0800200c9a66. You might want to copy that in to a txt file for your use later. You will need to get a new GUID for each app that you want to add to your kitchen.
Next, create an empty txt document and name it (your GUID) 04987fe2-31a8-11dc-8314-0800200c9a66.dsm (note that that is my GUID, replace it with your own). When saving that file, choose Save file type as All Files.
Then create another txt document. In it you will type in it REGEDIT4 then [enter] and then copy and paste the registry keys in to it that I told you to save earlier. After the last line of the registry keys there needs to be a blank line so at the end of the last line of registry keys hit [enter] and then [enter] again. Save that txt file (your GUID) 04987fe2-31a8-11dc-8314-0800200c9a66.rgu and save it as file type UNICODE. (Note) If your app doesn't have any registry keys, which some apps don't, you can skip this entire step completely.
Almost there.
Now, you need to create a link to the app so that it shows up under the programs menu. More than likely if you extracted all the files from your phone that the app installed there will already be one so you wont need to. If you do though, create another txt document and type in it #"\Windows\yourappsnamehere.exe" and save that as yourappsname.lnk and save as file type All Files.
In another new txt document copy and paste this:
Directory("\Windows\Start Menu\Programs"):-File("yourappsname.lnk","\Windows\yourappsname.lnk")
Save this one as initflashfiles.txt and save as file type UNICODE
Last step, create one last txt file and copy and paste this in it:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-16" standalone="yes"?>
<Items>
<Item name="yourappsname" group="My Apps" checked="false">
<Tip></Tip>
<Guid type="p">04987fe2-31a8-11dc-8314-0800200c9a66</Guid>
</Item>
</Items>
Make sure you put your GUID in instead of mine that's in there now, and put your apps name where I put yourappsname and make sure you leave the "" in there. Save this file as option.xml and save as file type All files. If you want to add a tool tip description, just type it in between the <tip></tip> and when you move your mouse over it in the BuildOS app it will show up.
I forgot, one last thing, put this entire folder in to the OEM folder in the kitchen and you're done.
Run BuildOS and there should now be a new categorie called My Apps for you to select the apps you just worked so hard to put in there.
I don't think I missed anything, but if any kitchen builders or cooks see anything wrong, feel free to let me know. Also, if anyone knows how to extract the files and registry keys straight from the cab file itself I'd be more than happy to learn how to do it.
P.S. I told you that it was easier to just add it as a cab file afterwards.
The whole point in cooking built-in apps is to preserve the limited persistent storage. If storage is not a problem with you, then you are better off installing cabs...
cheers,
Jiggs
kitchens sux
xeno1,
i've been playing with 4 different kitchens, and i'm lucky if i get the core rom to flash. most of these kitches come up with one error or another in the ms-dos shell. it is nuts trying to figure out how these "tools" work because no one wants to produce a good manual.
we are all here because what we get from resellers doesn't fit out needs and we don't want to be stuck with their crappy branding. however, my experinces with these kitchens is no diffrent. these kitchens are "locked" to only work (sorta and sometimes) with whatever their creator puts out. i guess we will soon see websites on how to "unlock" these kitches.
Did the instructions that I spent hours going through everything to find and then explain not work? They worked in both Farria's kitchen and doubleofours kitchen when I tried them.
xeno1 said:
Did the instructions that I spent hours going through everything to find and then explain not work? They worked in both Farria's kitchen and doubleofours kitchen when I tried them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i'm talking about the kitchens not knowing where to look for files that are in placed. sorry for the confusion.
As long as you put them in the OEM folder and and you create the option.xml document it should find them and add the option to the kitchen. If I remember right, if you don't create the option.xml document it won't show up in the kitchen, but it will still add that file to your cooked ROM automatically.
Hi xeno1 - I find using MSCEInf by BenThon http://www.codeppc.com/telechargements/msceinf/msceinf.htm very good for extracting files and inf and _setup.xml files from cabs. I add the registry info from here into default.rgu and away you go.
One thing you forgot to mention concerning initflashfiles.dat - if you edit it using notepad you must delete the first 2 entries with a hex editor or U will get errors. (actually phone will not boot at all ) Use Editpad lite (or others) and you dont need to do this step.
Thanks meschle, MSCEInf will come in really handy.
I just have one question though, you mentioned the initfiles.dat, I've never seen this file in any of the folders in any OEM package and none of the cooks mentioned it in any of their posts on how to create new packages. Where is it located, so I can take a look at it? I s it possible that this isn't part of cooking a wizard ROM? Like I put at the top of my post that has the steps, this thread really should be in the wizard forum.
Opps my mistake i was in a hurry.
I meant initflashfiles.dat lol
That's ok, that's not a big deal. I did however go back and re-read farias post and noticed that I did make a mistake in the initflashfiles. Faria said to save it as UNICODE, so I changed that part. He says to save it as initflashfiles.txt though, not .dat. I also went through a bunch of initflashfiles and realized that most of that stuff that I copied and pasted there was just comments, and that all you really need is -
Directory("\Windows\Start Menu\Programs"):-File("yourappsname.lnk","\Windows\yourappsname.lnk")
Does that still need to be edited in a hex editor?
I greatly appreciate your help.
xeno1 said:
That's ok, that's not a big deal. I did however go back and re-read farias post and noticed that I did make a mistake in the initflashfiles. Faria said to save it as UNICODE, so I changed that part. He says to save it as initflashfiles.txt though, not .dat. I also went through a bunch of initflashfiles and realized that most of that stuff that I copied and pasted there was just comments, and that all you really need is -
Directory("\Windows\Start Menu\Programs"):-File("yourappsname.lnk","\Windows\yourappsname.lnk")
Does that still need to be edited in a hex editor?
I greatly appreciate your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even if you do the initflashfiles.txt method (in unicode of course) FF FE are placed infront of 3B which is what the first entry should be on the hex editor so FF and FE need to be deleted. Best way i find is use editpad lite - enclosed.
Try it you'll see.
My goal is to reach in too my windows folder and delete all the unnecessary file copied to my windows directory....I was just wondering if I could remove the rom and read only properties of the folder!!!
I guess no one wants to offer me any guidance then......If this is information u wish to not make publicaly available can someone please pm me to point me in the right direction
If the files are in the ROM, there is no way of deleting them. Else, you can try Total Commander to do the job you mentioned.
Your best bet is to edit the ROM before it goes onto your phone.
I'd suggest either Pandora (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=316881) or Core Pro (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=309701&highlight=core+pro) as your best starting points.
Anything with the propery of being 'in ROM' will still be uneditable though, so any files wich you can't avoid having to install will remain 'locked' (although, by definition, any files you absolutely can't avoid having shouldn't be deleted anyway, if you see what I mean).
The whole problem is that even after installing all my programs to my storage it places tons of unneeded file in my windows folder....I Keep a tidy file system but windows folder has 103mb of data in it.....I finally have my device setup the way I like it after flashing a different rom everyother day...What options will total commander give me over resco explorer???
Total Commander won't give you any extra options, it's just that it is free compared to Resco. If you're really deadset on cleaning up your windows folder and want to keep your same setup that you have now, you need to "dump" the ROM and edit it on your PC. Look in the wiki under "Research and Technical Stuff" to find out how to do all that.
okay I guess I can try that even though that seems excessive.....is there anyway that when I cook a rom that I can remove the in rom status????
just watch what u do. some files u think are not needed are. best thing is to take a current rom and figure out what file belongs to what and delete whats not needed or cook a rom without the things u need. again pandora is a great option.
Not really, not as far as I know anyway. I'm pretty sure that anything which is there on first boot at the last moment before the OS starts to set the phone up is unremovable except by flashing.
The only other option I can think of is to unlock the EXTROM in case you've got some unnecessary apps being popped into Windows from it on first boot, cabs like ClearVue or suchlike extraneous stuff. If that's still being used when your hard reset your phone there may be a fair few meg you can prevent being nicked.
Thanks alot guy for the advice!!! I love this place I spend quite a bit of my time at work on here!! I will try the things above and see if they do the trick.....
Gentlemen, (and ladies if any of you are hiding around here)
Whenever I flush my device I use PIM Backup and Sashimi to restore PIM data and install some of the apps I use. The thing I'm missing is a simple way to backup other device characteristics and features. These are many small things, like the order of the manila tabs, communication settings etc. They are all pretty simple to set manually, but since there are many of them it would be nice to find an automatic way to do them.
Below is a numbered list of things I would like to restore. If you have a good solution to anything on the list, please post it here. If you have other things you would like to backup, please add them as well.
1) Tab order in TF3D [hint]
2) List of apps included in the "Start" menu [solution - files]
3) List of cities in the weather tab [solution - Reg entry]
4) List of "Favorites" in the People tab [solution - file]
5) Browser Bookmarks [solution - files]
6) Internet Services Settings (e.g. The default access name is "uinternet" and I have to set it to "internet" manually) [possibe solution]
7) Default ring tones
8) Programs in the Program Launcher tab [solution - Reg entry]
9) Email accounts (PIM backup fails to set up my IMAP accounts. I'm not even sure it suppose to) [hint]
I'm aware of apps that can be used change many settings, like "Diamond Advanced Config", or the "Diamond TF3D Config". If possible don't just pint to apps that can do something manually, but suggest how to script a solution that can make the changes automatically.
For the purpose of this thread please assume that Sashimi is installed and can be used, but if the solution calls for a script or a registry entry change, please include or quote the file that can be used with Sashimi.
This is my first post in this tremendously helpful, active and important site, so I would also like to say thanks to all of the contributors, chefs, admins, moderators etc. who are supporting this site.
Owlen
owlen said:
1) Tab order in TF3D
2) List of apps included in the "Start" menu
3) List of cities in the weather tab
4) List of "Favorites" in the People tab
5) Browser Bookmarks
6) Internet Services Settings (e.g. The default access name is "uinternet" and I have to set it to "internet" manually)
7) Default ring tones
8) Programs in the Program Launcher tab
9) Email accounts (PIM backup fails to set up my IMAP accounts. I'm not even sure it suppose to)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sorry I can't give you working Mort scripts or .reg files etc. At least, not yet. But I'm searching for similar info and solutions, as I have the same need to automate installation after hard reset as much as I can. In general, for settings that are saved in the registry, you'll have to find out where the registry keys are saved, so you can export and import them using Sashimi.
1) I suggest asking sushilange, the creator of Diamond TF3D Config, or schaps, the creator of Advanced Config, how and where Manilla saves the TF3D tab order. If the registry is used, we can export the keys and import them using Sashimi. If the tabs are saved in one or more of the obscure Manilla files in \Windows, we can also save and restore them using Sashimi.
2) If I understand you correctly, just save and restore any shortcuts you like from \Windows\Start Menu with Sashimi.
3) You can try to add cities for your Manilla/ROM by setting up and running this application as part of your Sashimi setup. Or you can contact the creator, or the creator of the WeatherDatabaseEditor and find out which file(s) to backup and restore using Sashimi, after you're done editing your cities..
4) Don't know yet. Maybe sushilange, D-MAN666 or any of the other guys working on editing Manilla know how and where Manilla saves the TF3D contact favorites..
5) For Opera Mobile save and restore \Windows\Opera9\opera6.adr. For Pocket Internet Explorer save and restore \Windows\Favorites
6) Have a look at the provisioning functions in Makisu. I know the previous version of Makisu can setup e-mail accounts and maybe the new version can setup connections as well..
7) Don't know yet, probably somewhere in the registry
8) I suggest seacrhing or asking sushilange how and where Manilla saves the programs in the TF3D Programs tab. If the registry is used, we can export the keys and import them using Sashimi. If the tabs are saved in one or more of the obscure Manilla files in \Windows, we can also save and restore them using Sashimi.
9) Have a look at the provisioning functions in Makisu. You can't create your e-mail accounts with the backup applications I know..
favorite people seems to be in the pim.vol file. You can copy that file to internal storage and restore is using total commander.. or spb backup restores the favorite people as well
programs in manilla are listed in the registry under this key:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\HTC\Manila\ProgramLauncher]
cities found under weather are in the registry here:
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\HTC\Manila]
back it up and pop it in sashimi
good luck with the rest... its sad we have yet to see an all-in-one backup solution. Actually, i think it'd be great to see a manilla backup program developed for the issues you're raising.. tab order, people, programs, weather, etc
im eagerly awaiting this, ROM updates are so annoying when there's no simple backup solution
Please take a look before you post a thread in a certain section. This has nothing to do with ROM development...
Thanks for the hints, people. I'll start linking to them.
I'm still not sure how to contact the apps developers. If anyone can point them here that would be great.
mccune, I considered putting it elsewhere, but I think the issue of automating many small stuff like that is mostly common for people who flush ROMs. I believe that currently this thread is the one they read most often. If this thread will have some good solutions, or even better, lead to a development of a tool that can take care of all of this, I guess it could be placed anywhere and maybe the standard sticky tutorials would link to it.
If anyone has additional stuff he would like to restore – please post and I'll try to put it up in the list.
Mandragore & racerx_, thanks for the answers!
I have opened a thread here with all info to do automatic backup of all you have asked for, and more.
kika.93 said:
I have opened a thread here with all info to do automatic backup of all you have asked for, and more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very good, thanks!
I want to install themes and I've read just about everything out there on this subject and still don't understand how to do it safely for this phone. There are a ton of threads on this but not one of them explains how to go about installing themes safely.
Some say just dump the .tsk files into the windows folder, others say use Diamond TF3D Config, others say not to use it because there's a version coming out specifically for the HD, others say cabs aren't as good as .theme files because you may not be able to uninstall the cab...
So I'm asking...for those of you who try out almost every theme that comes out...how are you doing it? Can you explain what you use, which types of theme files you use, how you safely change from one theme to another, and why your method is the method you choose to use?
Here are some things I've read that I'm not sure are true or not (please confirm/reject if you know):
-xxx.tsk files are a type of theme file you need to put in the Application folder and are only good for the "top and bottom bars"
-you have to use Diamond TF3D Config to install xxx.theme files; there are 2 versions of this software, one for gsm and one for cdma; you may need to delete the "tweaks file" for this software to work; there is a new version (version 1.0) coming out specifically for the Touch HD
-some say you must install xxx.theme files into the windows directory...others say you can install them in any folder you want
-even after installing a theme, you may need to perform extra steps to fix the top and bottom bars and to have the correct background
So, I know these things, but still don't understand. What is the cleanest way to install and change themes without leaving behind clutter files...is it by using a cab, by using a zip, by using diamond tf3d config?
I'd greatly appreciate if someone experienced who's tried different methods of installing/changing themes would respond and help clarify some of these confusing details.
anybody know?
goldsfool said:
I want to install themes and I've read just about everything out there on this subject and still don't understand how to do it safely for this phone. There are a ton of threads on this but not one of them explains how to go about installing themes safely.
Some say just dump the .tsk files into the windows folder, others say use Diamond TF3D Config, others say not to use it because there's a version coming out specifically for the HD, others say cabs aren't as good as .theme files because you may not be able to uninstall the cab...
So I'm asking...for those of you who try out almost every theme that comes out...how are you doing it? Can you explain what you use, which types of theme files you use, how you safely change from one theme to another, and why your method is the method you choose to use?
Here are some things I've read that I'm not sure are true or not (please confirm/reject if you know):
-xxx.tsk files are a type of theme file you need to put in the Application folder and are only good for the "top and bottom bars"
-you have to use Diamond TF3D Config to install xxx.theme files; there are 2 versions of this software, one for gsm and one for cdma; you may need to delete the "tweaks file" for this software to work; there is a new version (version 1.0) coming out specifically for the Touch HD
-some say you must install xxx.theme files into the windows directory...others say you can install them in any folder you want
-even after installing a theme, you may need to perform extra steps to fix the top and bottom bars and to have the correct background
So, I know these things, but still don't understand. What is the cleanest way to install and change themes without leaving behind clutter files...is it by using a cab, by using a zip, by using diamond tf3d config?
I'd greatly appreciate if someone experienced who's tried different methods of installing/changing themes would respond and help clarify some of these confusing details.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it really depends on what you want to change. TSK files really only change the color of the top and bottom bars, highlights, etc. If you are referring to changing icons, transparency, etc of Manila/TouchFlo, that is a bit more involved. There are applications out there like Maxycy's TF3D Theme Maker that will assist with this. Also, like you said, there are lots of cabs floating around with customizations in them. Most, if not all cabs can be uninstalled. Your best bet if you want to start playing with your device is to get some backup software, like SPB Backup or Sprite Backup, and then playing with your device. Then you don't need to be worried about messing it up. You could just do a hard reset and then restore the backup and be back to where you were before playing around
cRaCKwHoRe said:
Well it really depends on what you want to change. TSK files really only change the color of the top and bottom bars, highlights, etc. If you are referring to changing icons, transparency, etc of Manila/TouchFlo, that is a bit more involved. There are applications out there like Maxycy's TF3D Theme Maker that will assist with this. Also, like you said, there are lots of cabs floating around with customizations in them. Most, if not all cabs can be uninstalled. Your best bet if you want to start playing with your device is to get some backup software, like SPB Backup or Sprite Backup, and then playing with your device. Then you don't need to be worried about messing it up. You could just do a hard reset and then restore the backup and be back to where you were before playing around
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks alot for your response. I have sprite backup and have made many backups but was hoping not to ever have to restore from one (afraid it won't work perfectly)...that's why I'm trying to understand all of the details. I guess my only concern is not being able to go back to a previous state EXACTLY as it was before installing a theme. From all of the methods available, what would you say is the best (not necessarily the easiest) and cleanest way to prevent random files from appearing or disappearing after installing or removing a theme?
goldsfool said:
Thanks alot for your response. I have sprite backup and have made many backups but was hoping not to ever have to restore from one (afraid it won't work perfectly)...that's why I'm trying to understand all of the details. I guess my only concern is not being able to go back to a previous state EXACTLY as it was before installing a theme. From all of the methods available, what would you say is the best (not necessarily the easiest) and cleanest way to prevent random files from appearing or disappearing after installing or removing a theme?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have Sprite Backup, do a full backup. Once you have that you can completely destroy the current setup on your phone. Once you hard-reset just execute the backup file Sprite created. When the restore comes up do a merge level 1 restore. It will put your phone back to the exact state it was before. I have done this many many times as I do craptons of testing
cRaCKwHoRe said:
If you have Sprite Backup, do a full backup. Once you have that you can completely destroy the current setup on your phone. Once you hard-reset just execute the backup file Sprite created. When the restore comes up do a merge level 1 restore. It will put your phone back to the exact state it was before. I have done this many many times as I do craptons of testing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man, I took a step forward and did my first manila mod last night. It's amazing...by simply taking three manila files I found in Maxycy's Theme Maker and replacing the originals with them, I now have background for all tabs and a new clock ha. I've also downloaded m9editor and Manila Editor and have a better understanding of how individual files influence the system. Thanks again for the support...who knows maybe I'll even be able to create a theme one day.
goldsfool said:
Thanks man, I took a step forward and did my first manila mod last night. It's amazing...by simply taking three manila files I found in Maxycy's Theme Maker and replacing the originals with them, I now have background for all tabs and a new clock ha. I've also downloaded m9editor and Manila Editor and have a better understanding of how individual files influence the system. Thanks again for the support...who knows maybe I'll even be able to create a theme one day.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See, it's easier than you think! Good job and good luck! Backups are your friend
cRaCKwHoRe said:
See, it's easier than you think! Good job and good luck! Backups are your friend
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was on a roll until now...I encountered my first serious problem and will need to hard reset and restore from backup. You mentioned to do a merge level 1 restore. Is this what I should do even if I have all original ROM, radio, etc? From what I've read on the Sprite website, level one is the most "complicated" level and is MOST likely to fail. However, you and others on here say to use level 1 bc it causes the LEAST problems.
My default settings are as follows:
-unchecked box for "delete all files"
-checked box for "check for corrupt registry"
-system settings restore set to "merge" instead of replace
-upgrade mode set to "personal data only" instead of merge
How come one option is set for merge and the other isn't? Should I change the upgrade mode option to merge level 1? I'm assuming this option wouldn't apply to me since I haven't upgraded anything, but I'm not sure...
[and just for information/advise: my problem occurred when I clicked on the cab for sdkcerts that came with the Max TTM program. The program worked perfectly and everything was ok until I clicked on that cab. I wanted to install custom taskbars and read that you needed sdkcerts first, so I clicked on the sdkcerts cab I just happened to find in the Max TTM folder (bad move). Ever since doing so, almost half of my programs no longer open bc it's either "missing a component or is not certified." So, long story short, don't click on the sdkcerts cab or install another sdkcerts cab after installing Max TTM bc Max TTM already has a sdkcerts cab which I'm assuming automatically installs when you install Max TTM]
EDIT: I went ahead and restored via sprite backup with the settings described above and it worked PERFECTLY...all of my contacts, appointments, programs, system settings, background, where I left off in a game, etc etc is now EXACTLY how it was at time of backup. The restoration went without any warnings or errors...I'm stunned at how perfect it went. Thanks again...
The only time you would want to do a merge level 1 restore is if you are restoring to a different rom than you backed up from. If you are restoring to the same rom that you created the backup from you can do a full, normal restore.