Related
First allow me to apologize for my clumsy English and this long boring post
I m a total noob when it comes to android, recently I bought a DHD and I would love to root it
However the first thing I would like to be 100% aware of is the worst case scenario
I m a PC technician so it would be very kind of you if you answered my Q by comparing the DHD to a computer
If you own a new laptop then u can mess with OS as much as u want, then u can recover the laptop to its factory defaults by using the recovery function
-in some laptops the OS has to be healthy and you'll have to able to log into your account in order to restore the system
-in some laptops you can restore the OS from outside the OS using a hot key cause the recover partition is a standalone partition and hot key is managed by a software which works in a layer above the OS
-in some laptops its even better! u can create recovery disk so you mess with the OS and HDD itself then you can restore the HDD to its factory defaults
-the only thing that might force u to go for a hardware solution is when u mess with CHIPS like the BIOS
if something went wrong while you are upgrading that chip u wont be able to fix it at home with any software but you'll have to take the chip out are reprogram it using a EPROM programmer
After this boring long introduction here comes my Q: how bad can I damage my DHD? I've read the word "brick" here and there, is that the worst case scenario?
I know less than nothing about the internal architecture of mobile phones but I always imagined old mobile phones it as a Read-Only chip that loads the OS into a RAM where u can mess as much as u want and once u reboot you are back to life
I m not sure if I m making any sense so I'll try to compare my Q to the iPhone
you can mess with the iPhone as much as you want (as long as u don't use a tool that upgrades the boot loader) and you can always restore the OS from a (higher) level using a third party application
Same thing with BBs right? u can always (inject) the OS back into the device using an executable OS file
What about android devices?
I apologize again for boring you
Thanks
Rooting wont necessarily brick your phone or damage it as all as when you root your phone you are basically gaining 'admin' rights on your phone.
The danger of 'bricking' or damaging your phone comes in when you start to remove the security off your phone so that you can flash a custom recovery, new radio or kernal.
This a very basic and minimalistic answer to your question but that is basically the just of it.
If you follow all the instructions to the point nothing should go wrong and if it does there is allways someone that can help
Running a PD98IMG.zip or RUU will revert your phone back to stock
Oh and once you have performed radio and/or eng s-off there are also very specific instructions to revert this back to stock over on the development section aswel.
Good luck!
RaymondErasmus thank you very much for your most-welcomed answer but can u be more specific?
tbh there are loads of tutorials all over the Internet but I m looking for simple in-depth details, in other words I m trying to understand which parts of the phone I m messing with
Regards
Okay, I'll try to explain it.. These phones have @secuflag, which is written deep in the internal memory. It tells your phone it's security state, S-ON or S-OFF. When security is off, your device's internal memory becomes read/write instead of read only. It allows you to flash ROMs (OS package) and do other exciting modifications to the software.
When security is off, you can do literally anything, even delete your phone's bootloader, so that it becomes just a pile of hardware with nothing to boot. That is called a brick. When you have the bootloader intact (always), you can recover your phone from any state. Usually people have ClockworkMod installed, which is a custom recovery application. It allows you to even format the internal memory of your phone, and then flash anything you want. Without ClockworkMod you can still go to bootloader no matter what, and send a whole OS into the phone using RUU USB connection.
Rooting itself does not turn security off, but S-OFF obviously does. Without S-OFF, you cannot hurt your device in any serious way.
jkoljo your answer is just awesome! Kiitos man!
This is exactly the type of answers I was seeking for, I was right about joining this great forum
Can you share more details? any diagrams to explain the relationship between the components/registers of the internal memory? and more details regarding the process of booting up in Android phones?
Thanks again man
Sure mate, about the boot procedure first:
The ARM SOC gets powered up
PBL (primary boot loader) starts running. It sets up partitions, for example, and initializes hardware. It executes DBL.
DBL, device boot loader checks bootloader (hboot) in case of corruption and such things, then executes OSBL
OSBL, operating system bootloader, hboot, sets up rest of the hardware system. It checks secuflag and sets internal memory accordingly, for example. It has the ability to read and write firmware. Then it basically executes linux kernel.
Kernel starts running, initializes your system (drivers etc) and starts booting up Android.
For end user, hboot and recovery act as the base of the device. Hboot provides access to various partitions like radio firmware, and clockworkmod recovery provides extensive control of /system, /data and such system related partitions. Hboot has the ability to boot up clockworkmod, regardless of the state of the system (corrupted and broken / fully healthy).
You might be interested in this.
For very extensive information about low level stuff, check this out.
For the record, seraph1024 posted a wonderful thread that helped me to understand some stuff
[Newbie Guide] adb/fastboot/bootloader/android 101
In Cyanogen Mod 7 version 12 is the apps2sd automatically enabled or do i need to create a partition on the sd card?
and if i need a partition then what type of partition do i need ext 3 or ext4??
rooting wont harm your phone if you followed the rooting process religiously
Decided to post this for anyone that is curious and wants to know the terminology used in these roms.
I take NO CREDIT for this, just wanted to share my findings. Source below. Let me know if I missed any.
http://wiki.cyanogenmod.com/index.php/Terminology
http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/what-is-odex-and-deodex-in-android-complete-guide/
TERMINOLOGY -
*TRWP- Team Win Recovery Project/ It has a touch based recovey interface.. and its more consistent than cwm it seems
*CWR aka ClockworkMod Recovery-
A custom recovery for Android phones and tablets that allows you to perform several advanced recovery, restoration, installation and maintenance operations on your Android device that aren’t possible with the stock recovery.
*Superuser-
A progam which gives unlimited access privileges to perform any or all operations on the operating system.
*KIES mini-
Kies Mini is an official application from Samsung that is used to update the software on your phone. It should not be confused with the full Kies application, which has a lot more functionality and is not officially supported in the USA. Therefore, abbreviating "Kies Mini" as just "Kies" can cause confusion.
*ODIN-
Odin is the Samsung software used to update Samsung phones. It does not work with any other devices other than official Samsung phones.
*OTA or FOTA-
(F)OTA stands for (Firmware) Over The Air and is the process by which required updates and enhancements to your phone's basic operating system can be sent to you through the cellular network. The Galaxy S II software update will be sent via FOTA and is available through Samsung Kies mini.0
*ODEX-
In Android file system, applications come in packages with the extension .apk. These application packages, or APKs contain certain .odex files whose supposed function is to save space. These ‘odex’ files are actually collections of parts of an application that are optimized before booting. Doing so speeds up the boot process, as it preloads part of an application. On the other hand, it also makes hacking those applications difficult because a part of the coding has already been extracted to another location before execution.
*DEODEX-
Deodexing is basically repackaging of these APKs in a certain way, such that they are reassembled into classes.dex files. By doing that, all pieces of an application package are put together back in one place, thus eliminating the worry of a modified APK conflicting with some separate odexed parts.
In summary, Deodexed ROMs (or APKs) have all their application packages put back together in one place, allowing for easy modification such as theming. Since no pieces of code are coming from any external location, custom ROMs or APKs are always deodexed to ensure integrity.
*Busybox-
A set of Unix tools / commands that has been compiled for use on your phone. These are not usually full-featured versions of the Unix commands found on the larger platforms counterparts, but they are pretty close and useful nonetheless.
*3G/4G-
3G/4G is the term generally used to describe 3rd/4rth Generation mobile telecommunications, specifically allowing for greater throughput of data over cellular networks.
*Baseband/Modem-
Baseband refers to the original frequency range of a transmission signal before it is converted, or modulated, to a different frequency range.
*Bloatware-
Software or 'apps' that you don't need, but come preinstalled to a device's /system partition, meaning that you cannot remove them unless the device has been rooted. Usually, these are apps are sponsored by a company and included by a carrier for profit. For example, the Photobucket app included on the G2 by TMobile.
*CDMA-
Code division multiple access (CDMA) is a channel access method used by various radio communication technologies. It should not be confused with the mobile phone standards called cdmaOne and CDMA2000 (which are often referred to as simply CDMA), which use CDMA as an underlying channel access method.
*Firmware-
Programs stored in the ROM, EPROM, or flash memory that usually control various internal electronic devices (Hard Drives, Keyboards, Displays, etc). Firmware is typically 'fixed' software that is not updated in consumer devices, however it is often updated (or 'flashed') by advanced users to fix bugs or add features to the device. Flashing firmware designed for one device onto a different device, or not following a specific procedure while flashing will often render the device unusable.
*Flash-
Non-volatile computer storage that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed (similar to EPROM). No power is needed to maintain the information stored in the chip. This technology is primarily used in memory cards and USB flash drives for general storage and transfer of data between computers and other digital products. Because of its ease of use, speed, ability to be updated (see flashing), this technology is often used in mobile devices, PDAs, digital media players.
*Kernel-
The central or core software component of most operating systems. Its responsibilities include managing the system's resources (the communication between hardware and software components) and can provide the lowest-level abstraction layer for resources (especially memory, processors, and I/O devices).
*IMEI-
The International Mobile Equipment Identity is a number unique to every GSM, WCDMA, and iDEN mobile device, as well as some satellite devices. The IMEI number is used by the GSM network to identify valid devices and therefore can be used to stop a stolen device from accessing the network. For example, if a mobile device is stolen, the owner can call their network provider and instruct them to "ban" the device using its IMEI number. This renders the device useless, whether or not the device's SIM is changed. The IMEI can be displayed by dialing *#06#.
*IRC-
Internet Relay Chat. Basically a chatroom, or a cross between Instant Messaging and a forum.
*Open-source-
Open-source is software that anyone is allowed to see the 'source' code. In the context of Android, Open-source refers to the approach to the design, development, and distribution of software. This offers accessibility to a software's source code for modification, improvement, bug-fixing, and security-enhancement. CyanogenMod is based on this principle.
*AOSP-
Android Open Source Project
*Radio-
The cellular radio on the device which needs control software called firmware to control it.
*ROM-
Read Only Memory. In the context of an Android device, ROM is the internal flash memory where the core operating system resides. It can also refer to a specific version firmware that can be applied to a device through a process usually referred to as flashing. An improperly flashed ROM can often brick the device, rendering it unusable.
*SDK-
Software Development Kit. You can find the Android SDK at http://developer.android.com/sdk.
*Vanilla-
A clean, unmodified version of something. In the context of Android ROMs, vanilla refers to the stock ROM that came pre-installed on the device.
*Widget-
An application that lives (in other words, is always running) on the homescreen instead of being 'run' like a regular app. Common examples are calenders and weather widgets.
*Soft Brick-
Recoverable without professional repair via Odin
*Hard Brick-
Not recoverable, better hope you have a warranty/insurance. Usually happens when flashing wrong rom or modem, like from another device.
*Superwipe-
A tool that will get your device "Rom-flash-ready" by doing the necessary wiping
*Zipalign-
Reduces the amount of RAM consumed when running the application by allowing data to be mmap'd in; which causes all uncompressed data within the .apk, such as images or raw files, to be aligned on 4-byte boundaries.
*Sleep of death or S.O.D.-
Refers to the the device not being able to be awaken after a long time in "off mode" like while charging while you sleep. If you try to awaken your device, I will not come on. Usually requires a long press on the power button to reset the device or battery pull.
*Hot Reboot-
An option to reload all apps and framework files without rebooing the complete device
*FC-
Foreclose
*WIP-
Work in Progress
*Kanged-
To have one's developer code and work taken, manipulated, rebranded, and re-released by someone else with no credit
*Insecure-
A kernel that will give you root access, installing one of these will allow you to run apps that require root access, and allow you to make proper backups of your handset.
Android Specific Definitions
*ADB-
Android Development Bridge. Command line tool used to communicate with & control the device over a USB link from a computer. The ADB command is found in the Android SDK.
*Android-
Unveiled on 5 November 2007, Android is a mobile operating system running on the Linux kernel developed by Google.
*Apps2SD-
Move applications from the internal NAND memory on the device to a removable SD Card.
*CyanogenMod Updater-
An updater written by Cyanogen that allows you to receive OTA (Over-The-Air) updates to CyanogenMod.
*Dalvik-Cache-
The dalvik-cache directory holds all of the pre-compiled .dex files created from installed apps. These files are static and do not change unless the app is updated.
*Fastboot-
Fastboot is protocol used to directly update the flash filesystem in Android devices from a host over USB. It allows flashing of unsigned partition images. It is disabled almost all production devices since USB support is disabled in the bootloader.
*GApps-
See Google Apps.
*[CO
Nice job! Thanks for compiling that.
I was just saying on another thread that I wish when I had rooted last week that I knew more about WHAT and WHY I was doing something vs. just following the directions of the dev! Love to see someone maybe elaborate on the actual root process. Such as explaining why we have to use odin vs. say just drag and dropping files, what is and why do we have to have Superuser, explain CWM recovery, etc.
Nice post. I didn't know what odex vs deodex was but now I do!
Swyped from my iPhone eater
-BeastMOD
-Supercharged 1000HP
you deserve a thanks click and a sticky... sorry can only provide one
OP updated with Superuser, ODIN and CWR.
thanx bro..my noob level dropped lol
mightymike889 said:
thanx bro..my noob level dropped lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol. If I can help at least one person than my job has been done.
Powered by the SGSII....
Very nice list. But I have one question, what's ota? ;-)
——————————
Deebo took your bike too?
ThC23 said:
OP updated with Superuser, ODIN and CWR.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! Learning more and more!
Superuser...I thought I "installed" Superuser like an app or interface?
AOSP - Android Open Source Project.
I just looked this one up the other day after wondering for a loong time what it meant.
m.
escrowdog said:
Thanks! Learning more and more!
Superuser...I thought I "installed" Superuser like an app or interface?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol, my bad! It is, it was late last nite and I have no idea where that came from, lol. Superuser fixed. Thanks.
Busybox added.
ThC23 said:
Lol, my bad! It is, it was late last nite and I have no idea where that came from, lol. Superuser fixed. Thanks.
Busybox added.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should've added ota in the op too.
——————————
Deebo took your bike too?
Write what CWR actually stands for. ClockworkMod Recovery
The_Biz said:
You should've added ota in the op too.
——————————
Deebo took your bike too?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
darkamikaze said:
Write what CWR actually stands for. ClockworkMod Recovery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OP updated, thanks.
Thanks OP! You know what I would really like - a listing for the 'just past n00bs' that includes items like:
Baseband version
Kernel version
Mod version
Build number
(Basically all the less than painfully obvious items on the "About Phone" page. )
As an example, Keis wanted to update the firmware to VKID2 last night, but I thought, screw it, I am loading CM7. However, I still see the old baseband version there. Whats the difference? Should I (can I) load the samsung update now that CM7 is loaded. Is there "firmware" and a "rom" or are they the same thing... etc.
anyway, thanks for the glossary. Its good!
I just bought my first Android a week ago. I've been reading a bunch and was confused by many terms. This was very helpful. Thanks!
unlocked ; can also referr to the bootloader too fyi
Sent from my MB860 using Tapatalk
Thanks
Thank you so much for such an informative page. What is Android without Root privileges
Thank you. good Info.
dwayner79 said:
Thanks OP! You know what I would really like - a listing for the 'just past n00bs' that includes items like:
Baseband version
Kernel version
Mod version
Build number
(Basically all the less than painfully obvious items on the "About Phone" page. )
As an example, Keis wanted to update the firmware to VKID2 last night, but I thought, screw it, I am loading CM7. However, I still see the old baseband version there. Whats the difference? Should I (can I) load the samsung update now that CM7 is loaded. Is there "firmware" and a "rom" or are they the same thing... etc.
anyway, thanks for the glossary. Its good!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what it should look like with the new update. This has the latest baseband and its 2.3.6.
Powered by the SGSII....
I got useful information From thread posted by ThC23. Credit goes to him
ThC23 said:
Decided to post this for anyone that is curious and wants to know the terminology used in these roms.
I take NO CREDIT for this, just wanted to share my findings. Source below. Let me know if I missed any.
http://wiki.cyanogenmod.com/index.php/Terminology
http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/what-is-odex-and-deodex-in-android-complete-guide/
TERMINOLOGY -
*CWR aka ClockworkMod Recovery-
A custom recovery for Android phones and tablets that allows you to perform several advanced recovery, restoration, installation and maintenance operations on your Android device that aren’t possible with the stock recovery.
*Superuser-
A progam which gives unlimited access privileges to perform any or all operations on the operating system.
*KIES mini-
Kies Mini is an official application from Samsung that is used to update the software on your phone. It should not be confused with the full Kies application, which has a lot more functionality and is not officially supported in the USA. Therefore, abbreviating "Kies Mini" as just "Kies" can cause confusion.
*ODIN-
Odin is the Samsung software used to update Samsung phones. It does not work with any other devices other than official Samsung phones.
*OTA or FOTA-
(F)OTA stands for (Firmware) Over The Air and is the process by which required updates and enhancements to your phone's basic operating system can be sent to you through the cellular network. The Galaxy S II software update will be sent via FOTA and is available through Samsung Kies mini.0
*ODEX-
In Android file system, applications come in packages with the extension .apk. These application packages, or APKs contain certain .odex files whose supposed function is to save space. These ‘odex’ files are actually collections of parts of an application that are optimized before booting. Doing so speeds up the boot process, as it preloads part of an application. On the other hand, it also makes hacking those applications difficult because a part of the coding has already been extracted to another location before execution.
*DEODEX-
Deodexing is basically repackaging of these APKs in a certain way, such that they are reassembled into classes.dex files. By doing that, all pieces of an application package are put together back in one place, thus eliminating the worry of a modified APK conflicting with some separate odexed parts.
In summary, Deodexed ROMs (or APKs) have all their application packages put back together in one place, allowing for easy modification such as theming. Since no pieces of code are coming from any external location, custom ROMs or APKs are always deodexed to ensure integrity.
*Busybox-
A set of Unix tools / commands that has been compiled for use on your phone. These are not usually full-featured versions of the Unix commands found on the larger platforms counterparts, but they are pretty close and useful nonetheless.
*3G/4G-
3G/4G is the term generally used to describe 3rd/4rth Generation mobile telecommunications, specifically allowing for greater throughput of data over cellular networks.
*Baseband/Modem-
Baseband refers to the original frequency range of a transmission signal before it is converted, or modulated, to a different frequency range.
*Bloatware-
Software or 'apps' that you don't need, but come preinstalled to a device's /system partition, meaning that you cannot remove them unless the device has been rooted. Usually, these are apps are sponsored by a company and included by a carrier for profit. For example, the Photobucket app included on the G2 by TMobile.
*CDMA-
Code division multiple access (CDMA) is a channel access method used by various radio communication technologies. It should not be confused with the mobile phone standards called cdmaOne and CDMA2000 (which are often referred to as simply CDMA), which use CDMA as an underlying channel access method.
*Firmware-
Programs stored in the ROM, EPROM, or flash memory that usually control various internal electronic devices (Hard Drives, Keyboards, Displays, etc). Firmware is typically 'fixed' software that is not updated in consumer devices, however it is often updated (or 'flashed') by advanced users to fix bugs or add features to the device. Flashing firmware designed for one device onto a different device, or not following a specific procedure while flashing will often render the device unusable.
*Flash-
Non-volatile computer storage that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed (similar to EPROM). No power is needed to maintain the information stored in the chip. This technology is primarily used in memory cards and USB flash drives for general storage and transfer of data between computers and other digital products. Because of its ease of use, speed, ability to be updated (see flashing), this technology is often used in mobile devices, PDAs, digital media players.
*Kernel-
The central or core software component of most operating systems. Its responsibilities include managing the system's resources (the communication between hardware and software components) and can provide the lowest-level abstraction layer for resources (especially memory, processors, and I/O devices).
*IMEI-
The International Mobile Equipment Identity is a number unique to every GSM, WCDMA, and iDEN mobile device, as well as some satellite devices. The IMEI number is used by the GSM network to identify valid devices and therefore can be used to stop a stolen device from accessing the network. For example, if a mobile device is stolen, the owner can call their network provider and instruct them to "ban" the device using its IMEI number. This renders the device useless, whether or not the device's SIM is changed. The IMEI can be displayed by dialing *#06#.
*IRC-
Internet Relay Chat. Basically a chatroom, or a cross between Instant Messaging and a forum.
*Open-source-
Open-source is software that anyone is allowed to see the 'source' code. In the context of Android, Open-source refers to the approach to the design, development, and distribution of software. This offers accessibility to a software's source code for modification, improvement, bug-fixing, and security-enhancement. CyanogenMod is based on this principle.
*ASOP-
Android Open Source Project
*Radio-
The cellular radio on the device which needs control software called firmware to control it.
*ROM-
Read Only Memory. In the context of an Android device, ROM is the internal flash memory where the core operating system resides. It can also refer to a specific version firmware that can be applied to a device through a process usually referred to as flashing. An improperly flashed ROM can often brick the device, rendering it unusable.
*SDK-
Software Development Kit. You can find the Android SDK at http://developer.android.com/sdk.
*Vanilla-
A clean, unmodified version of something. In the context of Android ROMs, vanilla refers to the stock ROM that came pre-installed on the device.
*Widget-
An application that lives (in other words, is always running) on the homescreen instead of being 'run' like a regular app. Common examples are calenders and weather widgets.
Android Specific Definitions
*ADB-
Android Development Bridge. Command line tool used to communicate with & control the device over a USB link from a computer. The ADB command is found in the Android SDK.
*Android-
Unveiled on 5 November 2007, Android is a mobile operating system running on the Linux kernel developed by Google.
*Apps2SD-
Move applications from the internal NAND memory on the device to a removable SD Card.
*CyanogenMod Updater-
An updater written by Cyanogen that allows you to receive OTA (Over-The-Air) updates to CyanogenMod.
*Dalvik-Cache-
The dalvik-cache directory holds all of the pre-compiled .dex files created from installed apps. These files are static and do not change unless the app is updated.
*Fastboot-
Fastboot is protocol used to directly update the flash filesystem in Android devices from a host over USB. It allows flashing of unsigned partition images. It is disabled almost all production devices since USB support is disabled in the bootloader.
*GApps-
See Google Apps.
*Google Apps-
An add-on for Google's applications (Market, GMail etc.), packaged separately to avoid copyright issues
*Logcat-
A debugging tool built into Android devices that displays system logs as they occur. See Logcat.
*NANDroid-
A set of tools that will enable anyone who has root on their Android device to make FULL system backups, in case something goes wrong or you want to try out that new experimental ROM/theme. NANDroid will backup (and restore) /system, /data, /cache, and /boot partitions.
*Recovery Mode-
A special environment that you can boot into for troubleshooting and upgrading purposes.
*Tethering-
Using a wireless device (e.g. an Android phone) to share it's wireless data connection to another device (e.g. laptop). With an Android device, the wireless data connection can usually be shared via WiFi, Bluetooth or USB connection.
*Wipe-
Usually refers to wiping data and cache partitions of the device.
*Zipalign-
Reduces the amount of RAM consumed when running the application by allowing data to be mmap'd in; which causes all uncompressed data within the .apk, such as images or raw files, to be aligned on 4-byte boundaries.
Hacking Definitions
*Aftermarket-
Aftermarket generally refers to any product or service applied or requisitioned by end-users to add usability or functionality to the original product. Many aftermarket modifications can void the manufacturer's warranty. From a manufacturer's perspective, the after-market is any goods or services offered by the manufacturer directly to end-users of a given product or service. After-market services include support for warranties, contracts, and parts and accessories sales.
*Brick-
a device that no longer functions, generally caused by a failed firmware or SPL update. Since the device no longer works as intended, it is often referred to as a "brick" or "paper-weight", since that is all it is good for.
*Flashing-
The process of applying a firmware image (or ROM) to a device. It generally entails a very specific order of steps. Failing to complete any one of these steps properly may result in bricking the device.
*Kang-
The process of creating a code based of someone else's code or reapplying code that someone else created into your own code (e.g. git cherry-pick)
*Rooting-
Obtaining root ("administrator", or "full") access to the device. This means you can mount its internal memory partition as read/write, which lets you do various things: have USB or Wi-Fi tethering, uninstall applications you otherwise can't uninstall (e.g. the Amazon MP3 store), install applications that need root access (such as AdFree), disable the camera shutter sound (simply by deleting the shutter sound file), overclock or underclock the CPU, install and boot Debian, and so on. Installing CyanogenMod roots the device in the process. The "Superuser" app controls what applications may gain root privileges.
*Unlock-
Most GSM devices are locked to only work with the sim cards of a particular carrier. Obtaining root access (e.g. installing CyanogenMod) on the device usually does nothing to the sim-lock. The usual way to unlock the device to all SIM cards is to obtain a subsidy unlock code from a carrier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good Job
It really helped me
sagarda7 said:
I got useful information From thread posted by ThC23. Credit goes to him
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice post... i like this
Very Nice Information
Very very Nice Information............thanks for it..........
Thanks for the information.. like this!
nice, very informative for newbies like me
thanks for the info
Nice share... but we still don't have multi-odin, right...??
Thanx for the info
Thnx a lot ;-)
Sent from my GT-S5360 using XDA App
Elparaq said:
Nice share... but we still don't have multi-odin, right...??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You got that wrong. We don't have single-odin yet.
Sent from my GT-S5360 using XDA App
Nice Info, Thanks!
Nice. It helped me
If you just switched from iPhone or BB or this is ur first android. Read this thoroughly and see ur questions get eliminated by this guide. if you find this helpful than show your appreciation and hit that thnx button.
Little in-depth information about Android. Must Read. Thank You Pirateghost.
Pirateghost said:
Android itself is OPEN. you can go and build your very own version of 4.0 ICS right now from source code. there are very few phones you can STABLY and RELIABLY run it on though.
The NEXUS line of phones exists for a reason. they are untouched by carriers (verizon teabagged the Galaxy Nexus a little), and do not have some stupid overlay on them. they are developer devices in that it is the first phone to get android updates straight from google (no manufacturer interference required).
every other phone is tainted with a manufacturer's UI. Touchwiz on Samsung phones (galaxy nexus is a samsung but they provided the hardware not the software), Sense on HTC, 'non-blur' on Motorola, whatever Sony calls theirs...lol, LG, etc
on top of that tainted Android interface is a carrier branding or lockdown (doesnt apply to the entire world, but im only referring to US here)
so google releases new version of Android
manufacturers build phone, and customize android to fit their model (this is where android almost stops being OPEN)
carriers get a hold of the manufacturers build of android and tweak and modify it themselves (more than likely they just tell the manufacturers what they want), as you know they love to include bloat and lock it down from the user
you receive your android phone after it has gone through all those steps....long process huh? we dont get updates to newer versions as quickly because of that long process...and they would rather us buy new phones instead of improving perfectly good hardware.
Android is open in the sense that manufacturers can use it however they wish, within reason. it is not necessarily meant to be 'open' to the average end user, and manufacturers dont want you messing with the phone they built. its the reason XDA is what it is today, albeit with roots deep in WinMo hacking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ADB → Android Debug Bridge (adb) is a versatile command line tool that lets you communicate with an emulator instance or connected Android-powered device..
Android →Unveiled on 5 November 2007, Android is a mobile operating system running on the Linux kernel developed by Google.
AOSP → Android Open Source Project
Apps2SD → Move applications from the internal NAND memory on the device to a removable SD Card.
BLN → BackLight Notification
Bloatware → Software bloat is a process whereby successive versions of apps include an increasing proportion of unnecessary features that are not used by end users, or generally use more system resources than necessary, while offering little or no benefit to its users. Like all the crap that comes from At&t
Brick → When used in reference to consumer electronics, "brick" describes a device that cannot function in any capacity (such as a device with damaged firmware). This usage derives from the fact that some electronic devices (and their detachable power supplies) are vaguely brick-shaped, and so those which do not function are useful only as actual bricks. The term can also be used as a verb. For example, "I bricked my phone when I tried to modify its firmware."[
Hard Brick → When your phone does not turn on at all. When you can’t get in to CWR/CWM Or Stock recovery. You are basically screwed.
Soft Brick → When your phone bootloops. When you can get into CWR/CWM. When You can use jigtag to get into download mode.
Busybox → BusyBox provides several stripped-down Unix tools in a single executable. It runs in a variety of POSIX environments such as Linux, Android, FreeBSD and others, such as proprietary kernels, although many of the tools it provides are designed to work with interfaces provided by the Linux kernel. It was specifically created for embedded operating systems with very limited resources. Platforms counterparts, but they are pretty close and useful nonetheless.
CWR OR CWM ClockworkMod Recovery →A custom recovery for Android phones and tablets that allows you to perform several advanced recovery, restoration, installation and maintenance operations on your Android device that aren’t possible with the stock recovery.
DEODEX → Apk files have respective odexes that devs use to supposedly save space. Deodexing means you convert it back to a .dex file and put it back inside the apk. This allows you to easily replace file (not having to worry about odexes), but the main point was to deodex services.jar so that you can change all text to different colors (such as the clock color to white) and to deodex services.jar, you need to deodex everything.
Flashing → The process of applying a firmware image (or ROM) to a device. It generally entails a very specific order of steps. Failing to complete any one of these steps properly may result in bricking the device.
Firmware → is a term often used to denote the fixed, usually rather small, programs and/or data structures that internally control various electronic devices. Programs stored in the ROM, EPROM, or flash memory that usually control various internal electronic devices (Hard Drives, Keyboards, Displays, etc). Firmware is typically 'fixed' software that is not updated in consumer devices, however it is often updated (or 'flashed') by advanced users to fix bugs or add features to the device. Flashing firmware designed for one device onto a different device, or not following a specific procedure while flashing will often render the device unusable.
Kernel → is the main component of most computer operating systems; it is a bridge between applications and the actual data processing done at the hardware level. The kernel's responsibilities include managing the system's resources (the communication between hardware and software components
Radio → The cellular radio on the device which needs control software called firmware to control it.
ROM → Read Only Memory. In the context of an Android device, ROM is the internal flash memory where the core operating system resides. It can also refer to a specific version firmware that can be applied to a device through a process usually referred to as flashing. An improperly flashed ROM can often brick the device, rendering it unusable.
Superuser→ A program, which gives unlimited access privileges to perform any or all operations on the operating system.
ODIN → Odin is the Samsung software used to update Samsung phones. It does not work with any other devices other than official Samsung phones.
OTA or FOTA → (F)OTA stands for (Firmware) Over The Air and is the process by which required updates and enhancements to your phone's basic operating system can be sent to you through the cellular network. The Galaxy S II software update will be sent via FOTA and is available through Samsung Kies mini.0
ODEX → In Android file system, applications come in packages with the extension .apk. These application packages, or APKs contain certain .odex files whose supposed function is to save space. These ‘odex’ files are actually collections of parts of an application that are optimized before booting. Doing so speeds up the boot process, as it preloads part of an application. On the other hand, it also makes hacking those applications difficult because a part of the coding has already been extracted to another location before execution.
SDK → Software Development Kit.
Logcat → A debugging tool built into Android devices that displays system logs as they occur. See Logcat.
NANDroid → A set of tools that will enable anyone who has root on their Android device to make FULL system backups, in case something goes wrong or you want to try out that new experimental ROM/theme. NANDroid will backup (and restore) /system, /data, /cache, and /boot partitions.
Recovery Mode → A special environment that you can boot into for troubleshooting and upgrading purposes.
Kang → The process of creating a code based of someone else's code or reapplying code that someone else created into your own code (e.g. git cherry-pick)
Rooting → is a process that allows users of mobile phones and other devices running the Android operating system to attain privileged control (known as "root access") within Android's Linux subsystem with the goal of overcoming limitations that carriers and manufacturers put on some devices.
How to root ANY US VERSION ON MAC
How To root At&t Samsung Galaxy S III I747 No Tripping Flash Counter
How TO ROOT USING SNAPDRAGON TOOL KIT!
How To Install ClockWorkMod Recovery!
How To upgrade ClowckWorkMod Recovery!
HOW TO UNROOT & FACTORY RESET YOUR SGSIII
How TO Flash ROMS!
How TO Back up Rom on Samsung Galaxy III
How to flash themes
MOD FEEL FREE TO STICKY IT, AS IT WILL BE FILLED UP & THIS THREAD WILL BE NOOB HANG OUT PLACE!
Legit!
Thanks for this thread...this will be my first android phone
I'm switching from iphone 4 to the SGS3, although i'm still eagerly awaiting my phone to arrive at my local BB, i've been reading up on all this stuff as much as i can...
+1 to sticky
send2amrish said:
Thanks for this thread...this will be my first android phone
I'm switching from iphone 4 to the SGS3, although i'm still eagerly awaiting my phone to arrive at my local BB, i've been reading up on all this stuff as much as i can...
+1 to sticky
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. Nice to have all of this info to read up one while I wait for my phone. Hopefully bb will come through soon. Thanks for the Thread!
heya AppDroid.
i lol every time i see my quote in your guides...
Appreciate the effort here....if only there was a way to make the noobs read all this before being allowed to post on the board
Sup Pirateghost!
Well Your Quote explains why we no get update like GNex! SO its great Explanation to NOOBS! lol
But hope you get this phone/already have it! Looking forward to flashing your stuff!
Pirateghost said:
heya AppDroid.
i lol every time i see my quote in your guides...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
appdroid said:
Sup Pirateghost!
Well Your Quote explains why we no get update like GNex! SO its great Explanation to NOOBS! lol
But hope you get this phone/already have it! Looking forward to flashing your stuff!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I don't have it and don't plan on buying another device off contract until the next nexus.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
Noob here. I plan on switching from a 3gs iPhone (AT&T) I've had for about 2.5 years. Had a few questions.
What's the deal with the micro sim? Will I just need to cut my old one down to size (i've seen the tutorials) or will I need to transfer to the new one they provide?
I don't plan on doing any rooting but I did see a thread about removing unnecessary processes to free up RAM and would like to do this if it is simple. Any advice/recommendations on how to do this without getting too detailed?
Lastly, for those that may have already done the switch or anyone else who would know, what are some of the most important changes I will have to get used to coming from the iPhone? What is the coolest thing I didn't have before? What are some of the first things a noob should do to his phone to make it "better" without getting crazy. I'm not a developer or specialized in computers or code or anything. Just someone looking for a few ideas. Thanks!!
PS thanks for the noob forum
If you're referring to this thread, then you would need to root the device to accomplish what he's detailing there.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1726842
Not sure how I missed that. Guess I'll have to look into rooting.
Spoonman87 said:
Not sure how I missed that. Guess I'll have to look into rooting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If that's your only reason for rooting, then it may interest you to know that in Android 4.0 they introduced the concept of disabling system apps. It'll still take up disk space (which is negligible compared to the 16 or 32 GB availalbe), but it won't be allowed to run (no RAM usage) and it will be removed from the app list. So, it will be as if it's uninstalled.
So that's probably a better option if this was your only reason for rooting.
There are plenty of other reasons to root though, but I'll leave you to discover those for yourself. Personally, I value my 1 year Verizon warranty. So I wait until my second year to root.
demarcmj said:
If that's your only reason for rooting, then it may interest you to know that in Android 4.0 they introduced the concept of disabling system apps. It'll still take up disk space (which is negligible compared to the 16 or 32 GB availalbe), but it won't be allowed to run (no RAM usage) and it will be removed from the app list. So, it will be as if it's uninstalled.
So that's probably a better option if this was your only reason for rooting.
There are plenty of other reasons to root though, but I'll leave you to discover those for yourself. Personally, I value my 1 year Verizon warranty. So I wait until my second year to root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to know. Thanks!
Where is the ...
Okay, on a very serious note ...
Where is the post on what to do in case you run out of toilet paper? Well? Well? Come on, this is very important.
Peter
Here is a post that helped me when I first decided to leave the Apple sheep heard...
Its from Android Forms..
It was originally posted by:rEcEivEr.
http://androidforums.com/sony-erics...om-kernel-cwm-firmware-flashing-adb-root.html
What is Bootloader, custom ROM, Kernel, CWM, Firmware, Flashing, ADB, Root ?
Here I've gathered some info for newcomers to the Android world.
I've tried to keep it relatively simple. So if you want more info, follow the links!
What Is A Bootloader?
Taken from: Android 101: What is a bootloader? | Android-Does.com
In literal terms, the bootloader is code that is executed before any Operating System starts to run. Bootloaders basically package the instructions to boot operating system kernel and most of them also have their own debugging or modification environment. Think of the bootloader as a security checkpoint for all those partitions. Because if you’re able to swap out what’s on those partitions, you’re able to break things if you don’t know what you’re doing.
As the bootloader kicks off before any piece of software on your device, it makes it extremely processor specific and every motherboard has it’s own bootloader. This is one reason that all Android phones have different custom ROMS developed due to high variance of processing hardware present on the device.
Android Bootloader
Every Android phone has a bootloader that instructs the operating system kernel to boot normally. But you need to understand one thing here that as Android OS is an open source OS and is available on a variety of different hardware, every manufacturer has their own version of bootloader specific for the hardware present in it’s environment. At its most basic level, your Android smartphone is like a hard drive, made of up several partitions. One of those partitions holds the Android system files, another holds all the app data you accumulate (which is how you’re usually able to update without losing all your stuff), and others to do more behind-the scenes stuff.
A lot has been said about bootloaders being “locked” and even the developer-friendly Nexus devices shipped with a locked bootloader (Nexus devices and a couple tablets are easily unlocked with a single command).In fact, a lot bootloaders are locked and encrypted, meaning simple commands like “fastboot oem unlock”, won’t do a thing.
Why are Bootloaders Locked?
A bootloader is usually locked on an Android device because although it’s an open source OS, still the manufacturers want you to stick to their Android OS version specifically designed for the device. In order to apply this concept, manufacturers lock the bootloader. With a locked bootloader on Android devices, it is virtually impossible to flash a Custom ROM and forced attempts void warranty as well as usually end up in bricks. Therefore, the first step is to always unlock the bootloader.
Why keep a bootloader out of reach? One of the biggest reasons is that the carriers and manufacturers don’t want to have to support hacked phones. The other is that a lot of time and money is spent developing these things. HTC Sense ain’t cheap. Neither is TouchWiz. But Samsung and HTC both have managed to find a middle ground with the modding community, and pressure is on other companies to do so as well.
Also a very good read about bootloaders: http://www.tested.com/news/feature/1879-know-your-android-bootloaderwhat-it-is-and-why-it-matters/
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is a kernel?
Taken from: Android A to Z: What is a kernel? | Android Central
A kernel isn't something unique to Android -- iOS and MacOS have one, Windows has one, BlackBerry's QNX has one, in fact all high level operating systems have one. The one we're interested in is Linux, as it's the one Android uses. Let's try to break down what it is and what it does.
Android devices use the Linux kernel, but it's not the exact same kernel other Linux-based operating systems use. There's a lot of Android specific code built in, and Google's Android kernel maintainers have their work cut out for them. OEMs have to contribute as well, because they need to develop hardware drivers for the parts they're using for the kernel version they're using. This is why it takes a while for independent Android developers and hackers to port new versions to older devices and get everything working. Drivers written to work with the Gingerbread kernel on a phone won't necessarily work with the Ice Cream Sandwich kernel. And that's important, because one of the kernel's main functions is to control the hardware. It's a whole lot of source code, with more options while building it than you can imagine, but in the end it's just the intermediary between the hardware and the software.
When software needs the hardware to do anything, it sends a request to the kernel. And when we say anything, we mean anything. From the brightness of the screen, to the volume level, to initiating a call through the radio, even what's drawn on the display is ultimately controlled by the kernel. For example -- when you tap the search button on your phone, you tell the software to open the search application. What happens is that you touched a certain point on the digitizer, which tells the software that you've touched the screen at those coordinates. The software knows that when that particular spot is touched, the search dialog is supposed to open. The kernel is what tells the digitizer to look (or listen, events are "listened" for) for touches, helps figure out where you touched, and tells the system you touched it. In turn, when the system receives a touch event at a specific point from the kernel (through the driver) it knows what to draw on your screen. Both the hardware and the software communicate both ways with the kernel, and that's how your phone knows when to do something. Input from one side is sent as output to the other, whether it's you playing Angry Birds, or connecting to your car's Bluetooth.
It sounds complicated, and it is. But it's also pretty standard computer logic -- there's an action of some sort generated for every event. Without the kernel to accept and send information, developers would have to write code for every single event for every single piece of hardware in your device. With the kernel, all they have to do is communicate with it through the Android system API's, and hardware developers only have to make the device hardware communicate with the kernel. The good thing is that you don't need to know exactly how or why the kernel does what it does, just understanding that it's the go-between from software to hardware gives you a pretty good grasp of what's happening under the glass. Sort of gives a whole new outlook towards those fellows who stay up all night to work on kernels for your phone, doesn't it?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is CWM?
Taken from: AddictiveTips » Blog ArchiveWhat Is ClockworkMod Recovery And How To Use It On Android [Complete Guide]
ClockworkMod, abbreviated as CWM, is a popular custom recovery for Android phones and tablets developed by Koushik Dutta (Koush), a well-known name in the Android dev community. ClockworkMod recovery allows you to perform several advanced recovery, restoration, installation and maintenance operations on your Android device that aren’t possible with the stock recovery, and is one of the most common ways used to gain root access, back up device data, install a custom ROMs, kernels, themes, mods and more. However, for anyone new to Android customization and hacking, some of its options might prove to be a tad confusing. In what follows, we will cover all that this recovery is capable of doing, and how to do it.
About Android Recovery
All Android devices ship with a recovery console that is basically a partition on the device’s internal memory and can be booted into. The stock recovery of almost all Android devices provides a few basic yet handy options that allow you to factory reset your device and also to recover its operating system using an official ROM in zip format, but that’s all you can do with it. That’s where a custom recovery comes handy.
A custom Android recovery basically replaces the stock recovery with one that lets you do all you can do with the stock recovery, plus a plethora of more options to give you a lot more control on your device. With a custom recovery, you can install official and unofficial ROMs as well as other updates including apps, themes, kernels etc. using zip files, wipe not just user data but pretty much every partition on your device, mount the storage card for USB mass storage access without leaving recovery, partition your SD card, wipe Dalvik cache and battery stats, fix permissions, perform, manage and restore backups and so on.
Introduction To ClockworkMod
ClockworkMod recovery is one of the most widely used custom Android recoveries that is available for most mainstream Android devices. It is our custom recovery of choice here at AddictiveTips and almost every custom ROM that we install on our devices is done using this recovery.
ClockworkMod recovery has been developed by Koushik Dutta (also known as Koush) – the same guy who brought us the Android ROM Manager. He can be found at his blog hacking away at Android devices and at Twitter.
CWM options explained:
[REF] CWM - Clockworkmode menu options & Partitions– GENERAL KNOWLEDGE - xda-developers
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
What's Firmware?
Taken from: What is Firmware, Rom and Firmware Flashing ? - I Teach Android
What the heck is this firmware? Definition of firmware is permanent software programmed into a read-only memory
In Simple words, you can understand it like windows for pc , in case of android we are going to do same thing – installing firmware (Froyo,Gingerbread, ICS, Jelly Bean etc.) on your phone. All phones have their different firmwares and installing tools regard less to the Andriod version (Froyo,Gingerbred). So never think that we can install any firmware on any android phone like we do in PCs.
Wiki link for even more info: Firmware - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
----------------------------------------
When the f#ck did we get ice cream?
Part #2
What is Flashing?
Flashing refers to the overwriting of existing data on ROM modules present in an electronic device with new data. This can be done to upgrade a device or to change the provider of a service associated with the function of the device, such as changing from one mobile phone service provider to another or installing a new operating system.
In simple words flashing is called installing firmware on your phone.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is Rooting?
Taken from: Rooting for Android: What, why and how? | Ubergizmo
WiKi link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rooting_(Android_OS)
When carriers and manufacturers sell you your device, it is almost certain that the device would come with certain software restrictions in place. There are a variety of different reasons why they might do that – some claim that this is done to protect the user, preserve the device’s warranty (this policy will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer), prevent users from getting rid of carrier bloatware apps or simply because the manufacturer would prefer if your device was distinguishable from the competition based purely on its user interface (i.e. Samsung’s TouchWiz, HTC Sense UI, etc).
Whatever their reasoning may be, chances are if you are looking to customize your device on a deeper level, you’d be out of luck and this is where rooting comes into play.
Rooting is essentially a process that allows users of smartphones, tablets or other devices running on Android to gain “superuser” access to the software. This will allow the user to perform administrative tasks such as writing to locations normally restricted by the system which in turn will allow for deeper customization. For iOS users, rooting on Android devices could be thought of as a close equivalent to jailbreaking your device.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
What are custom ROMs?
Taken from: Custom ROMs For Android Explained - Here Is Why You Want Them
A stock ROM is the version of the phone's operating system that comes with your phone when you buy it.
A custom ROM is a fully standalone version of the OS, including the kernel (which makes everything run), apps, services, etc - everything you need to operate the device, except it's customized by someone in some way.
So what does the "customized" part mean? Since Android is open source, developers are free to take stock ROMs, modify them, strip them of garbage, optimize them, add things, and pretty much do whatever their imagination and skills allow.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is ADB?
Taken from: Android 201: What is adb? | Android Central
According to Google "Android Debug Bridge (adb) is a versatile tool lets you manage the state of an emulator instance or Android-powered device." That certainly sounds like Google, doesn't it? To put it simply, adb is two different applications -- one running on your computer (Windows, Linux or Mac) and one running on your phone. When your phone is connected, and USB debugging is enabled, you can issue commands and communicate with the phone using your computer screen and keyboard.
Your Android phone uses a modified Linux kernel and tools as a base. This means that quite a few Linux commands can be sent via the adb server (the one running on your computer) to the adb client (the one running on your phone) and they will be executed. In our example picture, I've sent the "top" command over the wire to my phone, and my phone sent me back the information and printed it to my terminal.
This can be awfully handy for debugging things that aren't going right, as well sending those weird commands you need when you're hacking away in the middle of the night. Chances are, if you aren't actively debugging something or trying to break hack at your phone, you won't have much use for adb. And that's OK -- there's more than one way to have fun with an Android device.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
What's baseband?
Baseband is the Radio or Modem version depending upon the Phone Model, Carrier and Android Software Stack version. The Radio/Modem file is flashed via Recovery tool (other options are ADB/ODIN). The mismatched Radio/Modem and ROM will lead to things not working. You need to find the matching Radio/Modem for the particular ROM you are running.
The radio firmware controls basic low-level functions like network connectivity, Wi-Fi, and GPS. Upgrading Radio firmware will fix connectivity issues, increase range or performance, decrease battery usage, etc. Incorrec tRadio frimeware can disable some functions in your phone such as MMS, 3G Data, VM Notifications, etc. Network operators/carriers select the correct version of the Radio firmware that is suitable for the phone, network and bandwidth.
There is also Modem and Baseband Radio Processor chipsets in Mobile phones. Usually, Google, Phone Manufacturers and carriers develop various types of modem firmware/software that controls the functions of these chipsets.
Firmware is the overall version of the Android system on your phone. Baseband version is the version of the radio embedded in the device. Since Android is based on the Linux operating system, they show you the current version of the Kernel used in the heart of the system. The Build number is just an indicator of which numerical version of the current overall system was built by developers for your device.
You cannot update any of these from the official web site. Updates to the Android system are pushed to the phone over-the-air by the manufacturer or the cell phone carrier. The only other way to update or change an Android phone it to install custom modified ROMs in place of the existing system firmware. That usually requires rooting the phone and a fairly considerable knowledge of how to hack hardware.
When the f#ck did we get ice cream?
Useful Info.
Thanks.
Do you have any idea how to root lg stylo 3. Boost mobile loads the phone down with bloatware and i would like to get it gone. Any help would be appreciated
سلام
میشه بگید آیا راهی وجود داره که فقط قابلیت ناک آن رو روی ال جی اپتیموس نصب کرد یا نه؟
گوشی من روت شده هست و فقط میخام این قابلیتپ بهش اضافه کنم
Ramin1985 said:
سلام
میشه بگید آیا راهی وجود داره که فقط قابلیت ناک آن رو روی ال جی اپتیموس نصب کرد یا نه؟
گوشی من روت شده هست و فقط میخام این قابلیتپ بهش اضافه کنم
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm happy to assist; however, I'd appreciate if the post was in English language.
please I have a problem with my Samsung GT-S7262 it has a red line at the corner of the phone on the left side of it please help me out I don't know what to do now so I need help from you people please !