Related
I think it would be very useful to have available a tool which could dump to the sd card the rom that is currently on the phone, all settings, pim data, etc. and make so all you have to do is flash the rom and when its done, everything is as it was. Kind of like making restore points on your pc. Currently it seems people are using a combination of this to do that, that to do this, and there is a kinda steep learning curve for new users, and experienced users are still taking 1/2 hr to an hr to set everything up after flashing and it seems every chef has thier preferred autoinstall stuff cooked in. I would be willing to donate $50 to author of a working tool such as I have described but it would have to restore everything, just t29, flash the b/u rom and ur in business, and it would have to be noob friendly at least for the most part as this tool would be a preferred method for newer users. I think such a tool would make experimentation with apps and modifications, rom building/testing much safer and faster for people just to flash back to a stable rom all set up if something doesnt go right. I know theres some seriously smart people here at xda, hopefully some of you could look into creating a tool that would benifit many people, and hopefully more people would be willing to donate for such a tool.
huggs said:
I think it would be very useful to have available a tool which could dump to the sd card the rom that is currently on the phone, all settings, pim data, etc. and make so all you have to do is flash the rom and when its done, everything is as it was. Kind of like making restore points on your pc. Currently it seems people are using a combination of this to do that, that to do this, and there is a kinda steep learning curve for new users, and experienced users are still taking 1/2 hr to an hr to set everything up after flashing and it seems every chef has thier preferred autoinstall stuff cooked in. I would be willing to donate $50 to author of a working tool such as I have described but it would have to restore everything, just t29, flash the b/u rom and ur in business, and it would have to be noob friendly at least for the most part as this tool would be a preferred method for newer users. I think such a tool would make experimentation with apps and modifications, rom building/testing much safer and faster for people just to flash back to a stable rom all set up if something doesnt go right. I know theres some seriously smart people here at xda, hopefully some of you could look into creating a tool that would benifit many people, and hopefully more people would be willing to donate for such a tool.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The problem is that when you backup program items, it also backs up the registry entries, and those entries may vary between ROMS. I use SPB Backup on my system, but ONLY restore to the same ROM version - to avoid this very issue.
The absolute safest way to flash a new ROM is to use activesync to backup your contacts, emails, and schedule (plus mobile shortcuts), and then flash. Then manually install each of your programs onto the phone. This ensures that your phone will be setup to match the OS. Then restore your contacts, etc, by using activesync again.
There are various solutions to get around this (I use XDA_UC myself), but that requires some reading and knowledge.
stevedebi said:
The problem is that when you backup program items, it also backs up the registry entries, and those entries may vary between ROMS. I use SPB Backup on my system, but ONLY restore to the same ROM version - to avoid this very issue.
The absolute safest way to flash a new ROM is to use activesync to backup your contacts, emails, and schedule (plus mobile shortcuts), and then flash. Then manually install each of your programs onto the phone. This ensures that your phone will be setup to match the OS. Then restore your contacts, etc, by using activesync again.
There are various solutions to get around this (I use XDA_UC myself), but that requires some reading and knowledge.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, I understand about reg entries not matching between roms, I'm saying to restore the same rom that was backed up. That way, if you installed a app, wanted to try a new rom, made some change or whatever that made the rom unusable, you could just restore that rom to the last stable configuration that you backed up. You could have the rom on your sd and have a stable rom to flash back to anytime, so you dont have to restore everything anytime you screw up your phone and must HR. Since I have had my TP2, I have had to HR many times, caused by messin with stuff trial and error style, I think it would be a nice safety net, to be able to flash back to something stable, all set up the way it was when the backup was made. Then alls you would have to do is get your rom all set up once, and remember to back it up.
huggs said:
Right, I understand about reg entries not matching between roms, I'm saying to restore the same rom that was backed up. That way, if you installed a app, wanted to try a new rom, made some change or whatever that made the rom unusable, you could just restore that rom to the last stable configuration that you backed up. You could have the rom on your sd and have a stable rom to flash back to anytime, so you dont have to restore everything anytime you screw up your phone and must HR. Since I have had my TP2, I have had to HR many times, caused by messin with stuff trial and error style, I think it would be a nice safety net, to be able to flash back to something stable, all set up the way it was when the backup was made. Then alls you would have to do is get your rom all set up once, and remember to back it up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, for THAT I recommend SPB Backup. It isn't free, but it does a good job. But it would not contain the flash contents, and all bets are off if you are attempting to overwrite a newer ROM. What I do is re-flash the ROM that matches the backup, and THEN restore the SPB backup file.
I've been doing a lot of reading on this forum trying to find the best way to update to Froyo... seems like every ROM says it requires me to wipe my data. I'm curious why that is? The official OTA update can update to Froyo without wiping my data, so why can't any of the ROMS on this site do that?
I'm just looking to update to Froyo and then customize it how I prefer.
I am already rooted, removed all the sprint/htc bloatware i dont want, customized my boot up animation, and changed the sprint banner... Certainly I will have to re-do some of this after the upgrade, but I would prefer not to have to re setup all of my home screens, re-install apps, lose my app data, etc...
I understand that titanium backup can help make this a lot easier, but the question remains... if the official OTA update doesn't require a data wipe, why do these un-official updates?
Thanks,
~ Andy
ydnandy said:
I've been doing a lot of reading on this forum trying to find the best way to update to Froyo... seems like every ROM says it requires me to wipe my data. I'm curious why that is? The official OTA update can update to Froyo without wiping my data, so why can't any of the ROMS on this site do that?
I'm just looking to update to Froyo and then customize it how I prefer.
I am already rooted, removed all the sprint/htc bloatware i dont want, customized my boot up animation, and changed the sprint banner... Certainly I will have to re-do some of this after the upgrade, but I would prefer not to have to re setup all of my home screens, re-install apps, lose my app data, etc...
I understand that titanium backup can help make this a lot easier, but the question remains... if the official OTA update doesn't require a data wipe, why do these un-official updates?
Thanks,
~ Andy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) This should be in the Q&A section.
2) I can't speak for the Evo, but my wife's Moment, when it was upgraded to the official 2.1, did not require a data wipe either.... Because the official update did the data wipe for you. Either way, she lost all her data. I suspect this is the same for the official froyo.
3) If you want things to go smoothly, always do a backup (nand, TB, etc) and always do a full wipe before flashing a new ROM. In some cases, this applies to themes and other upgrades. If you don't, it's on your hands if things go awry.
this is as i understand it. perhaps we'll get lucky and one of devs will come in and clarify this point for us.
quick answer:
when you call your IT guy with a problem what is the first question they ask? "when did you last reboot?" and then they have you reboot anyway. does that solve all problems? hell no. but if you knew how many times it did you'd understand why we do it.
... "did you wipe" seems to be that same kinda question.
what i think:
There are several partitions used by Android. and much like its big brothers the Linux OS's...the use of these partitions is well guided but not law. hence, some folks feel that dataX should be here and others feel it should be there.
there can also be configs that would conflict (things like HTC Sense are very deeply intertwined into the Android OS so an AOSP build would have conflict).
hence, to ensure that you (the end user of whichever ROM) have the best experience it's best to have you start with a clean slate. (it's plain old step one troubleshooting especially when dealing with so many non-techie folks)
once you have more familiarity you'll notice some folks don't wipe...but if they have issues, you'll often hear them go do a full wipe and report the issue was resolved. this is more true when upgrading...not so much when transitioning.
since the OTA was developed by the same organization that developed the existing OS...no wipe is needed.
the same can generally be said for those of us using CM6 and then flashing the nightly builds
the same can generally be said for those using Fresh ROMs and flashing updates provided by Flipz.
the same cannot be said for someone coming to CM6 from Fresh. much difference.
basically, the rule of thumb is "when in question...wipe". why? because if you don't and if you experience issues you may assume the ROM is bad or the dev is an id10T. then the non-techie may erroneously post such comments...causing a stampede. the board gets filled up with 'this rom sux' and 'plz help' for things that would have been a non-issue had a wipe been done.
I am already rooted, removed all the sprint/htc bloatware i dont want, customized my boot up animation, and changed the sprint banner... Certainly I will have to re-do some of this after the upgrade, but I would prefer not to have to re setup all of my home screens, re-install apps, lose my app data, etc...you can try using Titanium. it worked well for me when moving between Sense based ROMs. it will save most of your settings. it had issues when i transitioned to CM6...so i had to reconfigure my email, IM, desktops, etc.
when you flash a new ROM, expect your custom boot animation to be reset to whatever the dev chose...but using PushBoot makes it very easy to fix.
if you use adw (mabye launcherpro) you can export your settings and then import them after the flash
you won't loose the pics/movies/mp3/etc by doing a sd:ext wipe. (just in case you were concerned)
hey xda fans....ok so i have a severe issue here:
i have the evo 4g...rooted... and am on sense with 2.2 and 3.70 (i think you guys know what that is) so anyway i want to get the new update and start really having fun with my phone. I have not been able to fully understand all this rooting and flashing etc...O_O so i installed ROM manager, which now some peeps are sayin dont use if you dont know what you are doing WELL HI, THAT WOULD BE ME so for all the experts, gods and godesses of rooting (EVO) flashing, please please please help me from start to absoulute finish...i need to know what am i downloading, running, saving and to where- that was a huge issue too i couldnt find the files after i downloaded them LOL if i am successful...I will post the greatest YOUTUBE, forum, blog about this..i am so lost right now
b4 i forget a couple updates of info everytime i tried to flash or do any type of recent updates i get the usb connection 170 error or maybe 171 cant remember now....ummm...i rooted originally with unrevoked so unrooting i wouldnt have a clue...and yes i have searched allll possible threads for help but i only get 50/50 and then still get messed up..thanks
thanks again and happy rooting
While I am not going to hold your hand as there is plenty of information on these forums and the internet, I will steer you in the right direction. Since you are rooted, all you really need to do is download the rooted version of the latest stock rom. There are a few in the development section. The version is 4.22. After downloading you will flash this rom in recovery. Make sure you do a nandroid backup before flashing the update.
DO NOT unroot just to install the update. You will lose the ability to root hour phone for the foreseeable future.
Good luck
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA Premium App
ok thanks i will try it now...stay tuned
Ur not going to see much difference. The update dissapointed lots of people expecting a new look. Install a couple of custom roms if u want to have some fun. I am using the MikG v1.03 Rom with new sense incorperated and its waaaay better than the stock update we just got.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Pleat try to see this as advice and not being an ass.
Rooting your phone is really for being able to dig in to your phone and get all you want out of it and be able to customize more than the average evo.
What were your initial intentions for rooting? I get the draw to have free wifi tether but, that just happens to be one perk of it. Of course, there are the options of kernels and cpu clocking.
But, really the developers are attempting to bring the newest and most useful and functional features to the roms opening the full potential of your phone.
Aside from that, if you are unclear and confused about the process of flashing, you should really hold off and do some more research.
Go to the wiki page and read up! i spent about a month reading everything I could find on rooting, flashing, kernels, radios, prls, threads on roms and their issues and up sides. I knew what I was doing and what rom and features I was going to use.
Honestly, youtube will also be your friend. A few devs also post videos people have made about their roms including how to flash them. You should also read up on the results of mistakes made during flashing and how to fix them.
Get to know your phone and submit it to do your will!
Good luck!
Sent by Supersonic!
thanks to all...and no offence at all imheroldman. i appreciate every piece of info...well i did flash the new 2.3 and totally hated it no difference...apps were gone (probably my fault LOL) but i went back so ill keep trying until i find the absolute best ROM for me. i may try your advise sand1303 and look at MIK
thanks again guys
dmccoy516 said:
thanks to all...and no offence at all imheroldman. i appreciate every piece of info...well i did flash the new 2.3 and totally hated it no difference...apps were gone (probably my fault LOL) but i went back so ill keep trying until i find the absolute best ROM for me. i may try your advise sand1303 and look at MIK
thanks again guys
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your apps were gone because you wiped data. Try Titanium Backup - there's a free version in the market that allows you to backup and restore, get the Pro key to avoid agreeing to the permissions/install of each individual app. The Pro version also allows for a larger number of backups per app, where the free version limits to one and when you make another backup it overwrites the first one. You can also freeze apps with the full version, but if you enable "Chuck Norris Mode" in settings the free version will allow you to uninstall system apps. There are other perks to the Pro Key, but I digress...
If you backup your apps & data, you can restore them on the new one. Whenever you flash a new rom, always wipe data, cache and dalvik (dalvik cache is under advanced in Clockwork). If you're simply updating the rom (ie to a newer version by the same dev, like Cyanogenmod nightlies) you can just wipe cache and dalvik unless otherwise stated in the rom. Whenever you flash anything other than a rom - kernels, themes, mods, radios, etc - do not wipe data.
If you don't know which rom to use, as long as you have a nandroid backup you can always go back to your setup that you like... so flash away. If you want to stick with something closer to what you're used to, try Myn's Warm TwoPointTwo... it's still FroYo. If you want Gingerbread/Sense, I've heard great things about MikG. I would avoid any rom that needs you to partition your SD card until you get your feet wet & know what you're doing.
Oh, and if you decide to flash the new radio update, don't pull the battery when you see the screen you've never seen before - you'll brick your phone. Just wait it out, and it'll take you back to recovery where you can then reboot normally.
(from... Evo/MIUI/Tapatalk)
Definitely look at Mik, and learn all you can about partitioning your card for APS2SD, you'll want that for the bigger ROMS, about flashing radios, very important to do that correctly, about theming, and so many other things that being rooted opens up for you.
Mik is great for sure, also kings roms. If you want something that is still htc sense there are many great developers and right now is the time because they are able to merge ports with the ota for the max performance for our phone while running gingerbread and having nifty new 3.0 sense features.
And maybe someday you will venture to the aosp world some day...
Sent by Supersonic!
How would you feel if you could make a Nandroid backup, wipe your device clean, flash a new ROM, restore all your personal apps (with settings, SMS messages, and call log intact), all in about 10 minutes?
Too good to be true? After all, you probably remember what they say about things that sound too good to be true. Normally you shouldn’t believe it. In this case, though, it’s real, and it works! Many people in the DIET ICS ROM thread have already tried it, with amazing success.
As always, there’s a caveat. You perform the following procedures at your own risk. I will not be held responsible for any damage, frustration, anger, sadness, or suicides that may result from your decision to implement this process.
CAUTION: This method of data recovery will work under a wide variety of situations; however, you must consider the following:
1) When going from a stock or stock-based ROM to another stock or stock-based ROM, this method should work very well. It doesn’t matter if it’s the same ROM as long as both are based on a stock ROM.
2) When going from a stock or stock-based ROM to an AOSP-based ROM, such as CM or AOKP, this method may/will not work. Similarly, when going from an AOSP-based ROM to a stock or stock-based ROM, this method may/will not work.
Use common sense, and always follow instructions provided by the ROM Developer.
This method also removes any concern as to whether or not you need to wipe because the process involves doing a full wipe, which only adds about 30 seconds to the procedure.
Here we go …
1. Boot into Recovery
2. Make a Nandroid backup
3. Wipe data/factory reset
4. Wipe cache partition
5. Wipe Dalvik Cache
6. Flash ROM
7. DO NOT REBOOT – STAY IN RECOVERY
8. Select backup and restore
9. Select advanced restore
10. Select the Nandroid backup you made above
11. Select Restore data
12. Select Yes – Restore data
13. WAIT!
14. REBOOT
If all goes according to plan, you will arrive at your home screen with all apps in place, and with all settings intact, including stored text messages, and your call log.
Shockingly easy, isn’t it? After all, it is ALWAYS suggested that you do a Nandroid before you flash any new ROM, so this procedure will ALWAYS have you completely up-to-date.
Okay, you can hit the thanks button now.
Peter
(formerly PeterHTC)
PeterGuru said:
How would you feel if you could make a Nandroid backup, wipe your device clean, flash a new ROM, restore all your personal apps (with settings, SMS messages, and call log intact), all in about 10 minutes?
Too good to be true? After all, you probably remember what they say about things that sound too good to be true. Normally you shouldn’t believe it. In this case, though, it’s real, and it works! Many people in the DIET ICS ROM thread have already tried it, with amazing success.
As always, there’s a caveat. You perform the following procedures at your own risk. I will not be held responsible for any damage, frustration, anger, sadness, or suicides that may result from your decision to implement this process.
This method works “perfectly” if you’re upgrading an existing ROM. However, I can’t see any reason why it wouldn’t work equally well even if you’re coming from another ROM. Either way, use common sense, and always follow instructions provided by the ROM Developer.
This method also removes any concern whether or not you need to wipe because the process involves doing a full wipe, which only adds about 30 seconds to the procedure.
Here we go …
1.Boot into Recovery
2.Make a Nandroid backup
3.Wipe data/factory reset
4.Wipe cache partition
5.Wipe Dalvik Cache
6.Flash ROM
7.DO NOT REBOOT – STAY IN RECOVERY
8.Select backup and restore
9.Select advanced restore
10.Select the Nandroid backup you made above
11.Select Restore data
12.Select Yes – Restore data
13.WAIT!
14.REBOOT
If all goes according to plan, you will arrive at your home screen with all apps in place, and with all settings intact, including stored text messages, and your call log.
Shockingly easy, isn’t it? After all, it is ALWAYS suggested that you do a Nandroid before you flash any new ROM, so this procedure will ALWAYS have you completely up-to-date.
Okay, you can hit the thanks button now.
Peter
(formerly PeterHTC)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to see you here from the one x. I'm glad to be back on Sammy. One x just had too many bugs for me and no memory card was a deal breaker.
This tutorial seems legit, I'm just concerned that doing this could overwrite mods the rom developer implements and cause issues. Any response to that concern?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
Usually use Titanium Backup myself, so I can selectively select which apps to restore with data. If you're going from a stock based ROM( stock modified ) to AOSP ( CM, AOKP, or any of their kangs ) then I don't think I'd recommend this shotgun method of restoring. However Stock -> Stock this is very fast and shouldn't cause any issues.
About mods, not sure, most mods are going to be in /system so those should be fine, however anything themed will be overwritten I believe. ( CWM wipes and restores, not an additive restore correct? )
I completely agree ...
RubenRybnik said:
Usually use Titanium Backup myself, so I can selectively select which apps to restore with data. If you're going from a stock based ROM( stock modified ) to AOSP ( CM, AOKP, or any of their kangs ) then I don't think I'd recommend this shotgun method of restoring. However Stock -> Stock this is very fast and shouldn't cause any issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, Titanium has the advantage of allowing you to selectively restore apps, etc.
RubenRybnik said:
About mods, not sure, most mods are going to be in /system so those should be fine, however anything themed will be overwritten I believe. ( CWM wipes and restores, not an additive restore correct? )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I completely agree. If you're sticking with a stock-based ROM, or up-dating almost ANY existing ROM, then this method should work just fine; however, like you said, I would not recommend it if going from stock to AOSP, or vice versa.
I would also agree concerning the mods, which are almost always in /system, and aren't the theme files anywhere BUT in the data folder? Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Peter
Same here ...
lessthanzach said:
Good to see you here from the one x. I'm glad to be back on Sammy. One x just had too many bugs for me and no memory card was a deal breaker.
This tutorial seems legit, I'm just concerned that doing this could overwrite mods the rom developer implements and cause issues. Any response to that concern?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would have to agree. I had far too many little glitches with my ONE X and ONE XL that were just too annoying. So far I could not be happier with the S3.
Peter
Good tip, Peter. I never knew about that one and it will come in handy for me!
Am I the only one who also formats /system in Recovery?
thank you for this! im jumping from stock to diet ics and this tip helped a lot.
im also coming from about a months use of HTC One X. its only been one day with this sg3 and i already prefer it over the htc one x.
Is ROM Manager still advisable or did Koush move on and it is an abandoned project like some of the reviews suggest in the Google Play store? I used to use this to flash and manage my NANDROID's and it was super easy.
P8TRIOT said:
Is ROM Manager still advisable or did Koush move on and it is an abandoned project like some of the reviews suggest in the Google Play store? I used to use this to flash and manage my NANDROID's and it was super easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just used his Rom manager to flash the AT&T recovery and it works great.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
PeterGuru said:
How would you feel if you could make a Nandroid backup, wipe your device clean, flash a new ROM, restore all your personal apps (with settings, SMS messages, and call log intact), all in about 10 minutes?
Too good to be true? After all, you probably remember what they say about things that sound too good to be true. Normally you shouldn’t believe it. In this case, though, it’s real, and it works! Many people in the DIET ICS ROM thread have already tried it, with amazing success.
As always, there’s a caveat. You perform the following procedures at your own risk. I will not be held responsible for any damage, frustration, anger, sadness, or suicides that may result from your decision to implement this process.
This method works “perfectly” if you’re upgrading an existing ROM. However, I can’t see any reason why it wouldn’t work equally well even if you’re coming from another ROM. Either way, use common sense, and always follow instructions provided by the ROM Developer.
This method also removes any concern whether or not you need to wipe because the process involves doing a full wipe, which only adds about 30 seconds to the procedure.
Here we go …
1. Boot into Recovery
2. Make a Nandroid backup
3. Wipe data/factory reset
4. Wipe cache partition
5. Wipe Dalvik Cache
6. Flash ROM
7. DO NOT REBOOT – STAY IN RECOVERY
8. Select backup and restore
9. Select advanced restore
10. Select the Nandroid backup you made above
11. Select Restore data
12. Select Yes – Restore data
13. WAIT!
14. REBOOT
If all goes according to plan, you will arrive at your home screen with all apps in place, and with all settings intact, including stored text messages, and your call log.
Shockingly easy, isn’t it? After all, it is ALWAYS suggested that you do a Nandroid before you flash any new ROM, so this procedure will ALWAYS have you completely up-to-date.
Okay, you can hit the thanks button now.
Peter
(formerly PeterHTC)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I had my old Droid X2 (MB870), this is the method I used all the time, and it was very simple and straightforward, if I am understanding you correctly, this method is conditional in that you have to be coming from an existing flashed ROM? So for instance I just rooted yesterday through Odin but am still on stock, this method wouldn't work for me? It would be awesome if this could be utilized universally for what ever (rooted state), is this in fact the case or what exactly is the specific condition if any?
I will be adding a cautionary note to the first post ...
P8TRIOT said:
When I had my old Droid X2 (MB870), this is the method I used all the time, and it was very simple and straightforward, if I am understanding you correctly, this method is conditional in that you have to be coming from an existing flashed ROM? So for instance I just rooted yesterday through Odin but am still on stock, this method wouldn't work for me? It would be awesome if this could be utilized universally for what ever (rooted state), is this in fact the case or what exactly is the specific condition if any?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although this will work under many different circumstances, there are a few very important restrictions, which I will add to the first post in a few minutes.
Peter
Not to with this but there is a software update be AT&T if installed will it take away root?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda premium
Carrier up-dates may be disabled ...
dahlem said:
Not to with this but there is a software update be AT&T if installed will it take away root?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although I would like someone to confirm this, it is my belief that, if you root your device, then software up-dates from the carrier no longer work.
Peter
This works fine with ApOcAlYpSe 7_10_12 ROM
This method I can confirm works perfectly with the ApOcAlYpSe 7_10_12 ROM by smartguy044. I installed the Rom and restored everything from a previous stock setup that I did a nandroid of right before flashing. From start to finish the whole process took me less than the 10min as advertised. Just thought I would share just in case anyone was on the fence or concerned about using this with the ApOcAlYpSe 7_10_12 ROM.
Thank you for the confirmation ...
hkeyman said:
This method I can confirm works perfectly with the ApOcAlYpSe 7_10_12 ROM by smartguy044. I installed the Rom and restored everything from a previous stock setup that I did a nandroid of right before flashing. From start to finish the whole process took me less than the 10min as advertised. Just thought I would share just in case anyone was on the fence or concerned about using this with the ApOcAlYpSe 7_10_12 ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the confirmation.
I hope this helps those who are afraid to flash new ROMs because the entire process (from Nandroid to installing all apps and re-establishing settings), can take hours. I never really trusted Titanium, even though many do, so before hearing about this method, it would take me anywhere from 2-6 hours to get my device back to exactly how I want it, with all settings re-established. Flashing and installing apps wasn't the issue, which took me less than an hour. It's opening every single app and adjusting the settings that often took hours.
Peter
You really don't have to worry about restoring data if you flash a ROM that doesn't format the data partition. I have found that some/most don't wipe data. So you can just flash the ROM and reboot and go on your way. Of course do make a backup just in case.
I use TiBu 100% of the time. Never had it not work.
wgarrido said:
You really don't have to worry about restoring data if you flash a ROM that doesn't format the data partition. I have found that some/most don't wipe data. So you can just flash the ROM and reboot and go on your way. Of course do make a backup just in case.
I use TiBu 100% of the time. Never had it not work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct in your suggestion "If" the Rom installed does not wipe or format the data. This is obviously a alternate, fast method for restoration of user data if needed in a pinch or just as a normal way of getting your configuration and apps back to the way you had them configured previously (either stock or on another similar installed ROM).
I am not sure what you meant by you use TiBu and not have it work? When restoring from TiBu you should always just restore missings Apps with Data and avoid anything System related as it would most likely overwrite anything that a ROM customization may have just installed and will cause issues whether minor or even serious. I would suggest only messing with system restore items if you absolutely know what you are doing. That aside I agree with Peter as TiBu as good as a backup as it is, its time consuming...but its another precautionary backup method needed as a just in case.
hkeyman said:
You are correct in your suggestion "If" the Rom installed does not wipe or format the data. This is obviously a alternate, fast method for restoration of user data if needed in a pinch or just as a normal way of getting your configuration and apps back to the way you had them configured previously (either stock or on another similar installed ROM).
I am not sure what you meant by you use TiBu and not have it work? When restoring from TiBu you should always just restore missings Apps with Data and avoid anything System related as it would most likely overwrite anything that a ROM customization may have just installed and will cause issues whether minor or even serious. I would suggest only messing with system restore items if you absolutely know what you are doing. That aside I agree with Peter as TiBu as good as a backup as it is, its time consuming...but its another precautionary backup method needed as a just in case.
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I was just saying that TiBu hasn't lost data or anything. I know about restoring system data. I have gotten away with restoring some of it in the past.
PeterGuru said:
Although I would like someone to confirm this, it is my belief that, if you root your device, then software up-dates from the carrier no longer work.
Peter
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OTA's should work with root as long as you are on stock and haven't altered your build.prop. On that note, I haven't heard anything about a Rogers update?
I haven't heard anything from Rogers, either ...
David Dee said:
OTA's should work with root as long as you are on stock and haven't altered your build.prop. On that note, I haven't heard anything about a Rogers update?
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I haven't heard anything from Rogers regarding an up-date, either.
And thank you for answering the OTA question.
Peter
***original post copied verbatim******************************************************************
So I was rummaging around the dev section, QA, so forth. And I have seen numerous threads, questions, posts, where people have had issues with ROMs or just general left field issues that were resolved by going back to square 1 doing a fresh clean install of "rom.zip..
My goal with this thread is to contribute some insight and experience with customizing android devices in the way we all do... at square one, clicking the download button.... we also do not have a thread dedicated to this one subject alone, so here it is. I feel stickying this thread would be extremely useful, as so many people could see it right from the get-go and get valuable information from it. Also, I would recommend this be posted in the dev section as this is where people go to install ROMs, not the QA section. People go to QA after they have an issue. This is meant to be preventative, not a fix for an already broken device.
Just getting right into it, I will say this, I have flashed (I'm sure) damn near 1,000 ROMs to various devices. Mine. Friends. Etc. And never once have I installed a corrupt zip file to these devices. This should never happen, and among other important details to any installation of a ROM, this one is the most important...
VERIFY THAT YOUR DOWNLOADS ARE GOOD!
How do you do this??? Well I will show you... it is with this handy little app called md5 checker from the play store. EVERY. SINGLE. ONE OF US.... should have this app, guys (and gals, because I know you are out there it is a free app. No excuses
What is an MD5 checksum? Trusty link to get the gist of it.. http://www.fastsum.com/support/md5-checksum-utility-faq/md5-checksum.php
Making this simple - I will break this down into steps. Follow this meticulously and 99.9% of the time you will not have an issue or be one of the random bugs popping up when everyone else seems fine.
1. Download md5 checker.
2. Download all zip files needed for your ROM. (whether you do this from your mobile device or a desktop/laptop it doesn't matter, because you WILL verify the file AFTER you have transferred it to where it needs to be allocated - your device). Basically, download it, transfer it.
3. Open md5 checker, the app is pretty easy to use. Much like a file explorer in its layout with the obvious differences.
4. Retrieve md5 for your zip files.
5. Verify them with ROM developer, or others using that particular ROM. Any discrepancies - back to step 2.
6. All is well? Boot to recovery.
7. Wipe data 3 times (you don't need to wipe dalvik cache, that directory is found in the data partition - wiping data = wiping dalvik cache)
8. Wipe cache 3 times (this sometimes does not need to be done either depending on whether or not your recovery wipes cache with data.. most recoveries will spit out some text during the wiping phase letting you know the details of the process and you'll see see something like this when wiping data)..
"Wiping /data...
"Wiping /cache
If you see cache being wiped, you are good. No need to manually wipe cache.
9. Format your system partition through recovery 3 times
10. Install your ROM. Reboot. Let it sit for a minute or two, reboot it again. If you are not installing a custom kernel, stop here. You are done, and winning.
11. Reboot to recovery, wipe cache partition 3 times AND dalvik cache. They are both there as options, for this reason - the goodies we install after a full ROM install.
12. Flash kernel zip. Reboot. Let it sit for a minute or two, reboot it again. You are done, and winning.
Interesting fact about all the ROMs I have installed over the years, NOT ONCE, have I ever installed something corrupted, and every issue/bug I have ever had with a ROM was a known issue. This also doesn't mean your particular device is always going to be able to run for weeks on end without needing a quick reboot. Sometimes its good to do the dishes, I get that. But my disclaimer here is for all to note, if you follow these steps meticulously, you will ALWAYS be able to say to yourself with confidence "nope, did it right, there is something else going on here." And thus you will be a greater problem solver and contributor to the community as a whole every single time you pose a thought or question regarding any problems you are having.
"Do it right once, instead of doin it wrong twice before doing it right."
We are nothing useful without useful information. Useful information = posting in a thread in this tone...
"Hey, installed ROM correctly/thoroughly, verified downloads, XXX is buggy blah blah etc etc... can somebody else here verify if they are or aren't having this issue? Thanks!"
Based on people's response you'll know if it is just you or a legitimate issue, in which case, you brought it to the attention of us all, and the dev(s), and you have now been very useful.
What you don't want to do is this....
"My phone keeps rebooting!!! Haaaalp"
The reason why you shouldn't post like that is because you will ALWAYS get a sour response or people will just ignore you. Or, they will reply with questions you should have already asked yourself... "did you verify your downloads were good??? Did you do a clean and thorough install???"
Long post, but I hope somebody will find it useful and utilize it. It will increase your experience with your android device in a positive way, as it has for me. Cheers
posting a link to youtube would be an awesome way to show us noobs how to Exactly go about it also..when i had my captivate i flashed a rom called cognition,super easy following the guy on the video
What about other ROM's?
Can you show us how to flash ROM's from another carrier such as AT&T? There are a couple of ROM's I am really interested in trying out but have no luck doing so because of me not knowing what the heck I'm doing or how to do it. If you could post instructions that would be really nice.
Since I'm already rooted I can't make a video on how to root but ill make a how to flash a rom once you're rooted for the note 2 if you guys are interested
Interesting!
Next time I flash a ROM, I will wipe thrice, as you say.
But do you know why it is important to wipe thrice? Does the extra two times really do something additional to scrub the disc?
I am truly interested, and I would like more insight on *why*
Also, the dev for the Jedi ROM suggests fixing permissions after the first boot.
In my experience, this has led to better performance on other devices in addition to the GNII - perhaps that is also worth mentioning.
techn0crat said:
Interesting!
Next time I flash a ROM, I will wipe thrice, as you say.
But do you know why it is important to wipe thrice? Does the extra two times really do something additional to scrub the disc?
I am truly interested, and I would like more insight on *why*
Also, the dev for the Jedi ROM suggests fixing permissions after the first boot.
In my experience, this has led to better performance on other devices in addition to the GNII - perhaps that is also worth mentioning.
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There has been debates forever about the wiping more than once theory. I have always done this out of habit. You could compare it rinsing a dish in the sink that has some food on it... you wash it once really quick... you see nothing on the dish... you throw it in the cabinet. Later you see some small smudging on it and end up cleaning it again. Same idea. Just being thorough. As I said in the OP I have always done it this way simply to be thorough. And I have never once been the rogue user with an isolated issue.
To answer your q about permissions, if the ROM dev suggests that for his ROM, do it. It is not always required. But if instructed to do so, it should be done.
Is there a reason why it suggests to wipe three times?
I think it may go back to floppy disk days, or hard disks possibly leaving "footprints" on it, old images or data but im not sure. Just a theory.
G●Note~2 {Jedi X5}
Yes please add a section to the OP about flashing roms from other carriers. The steps are identical, except you flash a modem. We onky have the one availabke now so its very easy. Keep in mind n7100 roms will not work, and n7105 roms need minor porting. But you can take any rom from the us variants and flash it. Reboot, let it sit a bit, etc, flash modem. Its very easy and the att forum seems to be getting more love anyway
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
I don't promote people flashing ROMs that are not built for that specific device so I will not do it. Sorry.
krayzielilsmoki said:
Since I'm already rooted I can't make a video on how to root but ill make a how to flash a rom once you're rooted for the note 2 if you guys are interested
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you could unroot and then do a step by step vid. this guy is so good at explaining it,for example,,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MsafJ-9uRqk yeah i know its for the captivate,but i didnt know anything at all about rooting and flashing . i just followed him and iwas a happy man after being stuck on eclair cause at$t was so slow to update,,,any how just an idea,seems like alot of work but i think it would kill off many questions,i know i ask enough now as it is..lol
cobraboy85 said:
I don't promote people flashing ROMs that are not built for that specific device so I will not do it. Sorry.
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I have to agree with this. If you need flashing instructions, flashing ROMs meant for other devices is probably not the best idea at this point.
G●Note~2 {Jedi X5}
This is great advice about the MD5 verification. Everyone should check before flashing, it will ensure you have a good download with 100% confidence. If the MD5 doesn't match, don't flash it! And if a developer doesn't provide an MD5 with each download, ask them to.
However, wiping three times (or any other number of times except one) is nonsense. Would you format a USB thumb drive 3 times? An external hard drive? Android partitions are no different.
If it makes you feel better to wipe multiple times, go ahead, it won't hurt anything. You're just wasting time.
^kind of agree with you there. I would ask anybody here why they wipe dalvik cache when flashing a kernel then, considering the /data/dalvik-cache/ partition is nothing more than dex opted files of all your apks. I will also say that recently I have gotten in the habit of never wiping dalvik when flashing a kernel and it has not made a single difference in stability.
... point I am trying to make is what you said here, if it makes you feel better, do it lol. Doesn't hurt anything.
Indeed, cache wipes are seldom needed too. In fact, a lot of flashable .zip files have scripts which wipe the appropriate partitions automatically anyway when you install them. I guess old habits die hard...
I would also add that after flashing a ROM and you reboot that ROM, for use, you should wait at least 10 minutes before doing ANYTHING with your phone. That will allow the phone to fully and properly build cache and dalvik cache.. after a flash I let my phone just sit for 20min. Doing this has saved me from lags and bugs.
First I just wanted to say great job to the OP on creating this thread. I also strongly believe that this type of post really should be in the Development section, and you definitely nailed the reasoning for it. I've always considered writing up a thread like this myself, but I never got around to it unfortunately (<--Procrastinator ). There's just a few thing's I'd like to chime in with because I really believe they can help people who are new to the world of rooting. First and foremost (imo) I strongly believe that insecurity plays a huge role in determining whether or not you'll be successful with rooting and Android in general. I completely understand that statement can be applied to almost anything in life, but there's a very good reason why it's especially true when it comes to rooting. It simply boils down to people not wanting to feel (or look) stupid, and it seriously impacts the way a person handles different situations. My advice is to be comfortable with saying "I don't know what I'm doing" and "It's most likely not working correctly because I missed something or I didn't follow the directions exactly". I am not saying that to be ignorant or joking whatsoever, because if you have little to no experience when it comes to this stuff, it's nothing more than the hard truth. It doesn't make you stupid if you don't know how to fly a jumbo jet if you've never done it before, so why would it make you stupid for not knowing how to root a phone if you've never done it before? It doesn't and that's the entire point. If you try flashing a rom and it doesn't boot up or something isn't working correctly, 99.999998 percent of the time it's because you messed something up along the way. Especially when you see tons of posts in the thread like "awesome rom" or "it works great", because it's WAY more likely that you messed something up, versus you happening to have the one messed up phone out of thousands that are working perfectly. That's not saying you're stupid or incapable of doing it, again it's nothing more than the hard truth. It's also not impossible for that to happen either because it has, but it's few and far in between whereas making mistakes or forgetting something is a frequent occurrence for all of us. I can't tell you how many times I've seen people complaining about how something didn't work right, when the vast majority aren't having those issues (or just the known issues). Those types of posts are another example of what you should never do, because in reality you're blaming everybody else since you're apparently incapable of making mistakes. You'll be surprised how many times a problem you're having will turn out to be from forgetting something, even though you were absolutely positive you've done everything correctly. Anyway I really think that accepting the fact that you don't know what you're doing (yet), can make it WAY easier to learn in the long run. One last thing that I'd recommend especially if you're new to this whole rooting world, is to get in the habit of making nand backups (especially before you flash anything) because the 5 minutes it takes to do one can save you hours of frustration. Hope this helps somebody anyway
Paragraphs man. They make reading easier by separating thoughts.
I'm sure what you have to say is insightful but a megablock of text is tough to get through.
Don't sell yourself short by making your posts impossible to ponder.
Hastily spouted for your befuddlement
True in most cases but in our case every lte note two in the world regardless of carrier is identical. the only differences are minor software ones.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
I also think wiping three times is a waste of time. These devices are digital not analog (the plate analogy is much more fitting in the analog world). A wipe is a wipe, doing it more than once seems like voodoo to me .