My wife uses a Samsung Vibrant and there are just so many issues with it. Currently, it's on the latest stock Froyo release. It keeps losing all of her home screen icons (using stock TWLaucher) and we have to kill TWLauncher or reboot to get them back. Seems to have lag all over the place. Also, wifi signal strength is poor. The wifi calling app constantly turns off saying the wifi signal isn't good enough.
I'd like be interested in trying out a custom ROM. I've tinkered with some of the leaked ROMs, so I'm familiar with ODIN. I've used CWM on my Droid X before, so I should be ok with that as well.
She's not interested in 100 different themes and fancy icons and fancy features, etc. We are just going to want something that's close to stock with some tweaks that might fix some of the issues we are having. Not interested in partially working ROMs where the GPS doesn't work or issues with the camera, etc. Would like wifi calling to work as well. Need something totally stable. I'm not going to want something that's going to need updating weekly either.
Anything out there that meets what I'm looking for?
Please make suggestions.
Hi, same situation here, my gf has stock vibrant with froyo and many issues...
I've cm7 on my N1 so I considered it for the vibrant but at the moment it have troubles with gps and wifi SO I've searched a lot and the much more stable rom (for me of course) is the projectV, it's based on the official froyo with some tweaks and fixes, seems pretty stable until now
here the topic: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1105037
hope u enjoy it
Agreed with nekobus
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
I actually had my eye on that one.
It'll improve the lag and losing icons and things like that? I don't need a lagfix on top of that as well?
I'm not doing this for the eye candy (extra lock screens, etc.), I just want things to run more smoothly.
This probably won't help the low wifi signal though, since it's using the same modem as stock froyo, right?
Anyone else want to chime in?
It'll definently improve Lag and that icon problem that you have will not happen. And almost every ROM in here has a Lagfix, so Project-V does have one and will come on when you flash it. (A voice of a robotic women after flashing means that Voodoo is flashing) Voodoo is the name of the Lagfix, which makes our systems run on ext4 instead of the slow RFS system stock that your wife had.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
The best thing about Project-V ROM is that its made to be fast and for tweaking, that's why they say they're not competing with Cyanogenmod because it also has both speed and tweaking abilities. So don't worry if you think Project-V is all eye candy, because its both Speed, Stability, and Tweaks!
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
If anything, I'll probably give this Project V a shot then. My wife will kill me if I F up her phone or cause her to lose stuff.
I flash this with CWM? I don't exactly recall where to get CWM or how to use it, but I'm sure I'll figure that out.
Installing this over stock will be a total data wipe, right? I should back up programs and program data with Titanium first and then restore after?
This does include the lagfix/file conversion? That just happens automatically when I flash this?
Everything works? No serious bugs? I can also flash that wifi calling file in the first post using cwm and then I'll have wifi calling too?
Let's say Samsung releases a 2.3 that's a solid ROM and I want to go back to stock. With this applied and whatever lagfix, file conversion that's been done, how hard would it be to get back to stock?
Anything else I should know?
I've rooted the stock froyo, backupped ALL with titanium and then wiped all from cwm and installed projectV, no problem at all but titanium is required
About gingerbread.... do you remeber the "froyo story" right? I think I seat and wait for the gingerbread version of projectV (or other roms based on official release)! No more stock images in my home please
nekobus said:
I've rooted the stock froyo, backupped ALL with titanium and then wiped all from cwm and installed projectV, no problem at all but titanium is required
About gingerbread.... do you remeber the "froyo story" right? I think I seat and wait for the gingerbread version of projectV (or other roms based on official release)! No more stock images in my home please
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, wouldn't be surprised at all if there's never an official 2.3 for this. Their 2.2 release was many months behind competing phones originally released around the same time. Still, just want to make sure I understand what I'm getting into here and how hard it would be to get back out. Could I easily get back to the stock froyo that it's on now, if I need to?
I've never did it , but I think u have to odin back to 2.1 stock and then ota (or keys) to 2.2 or whatever
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Does the new market that came out this week work fine on this phone?
Before this market, I also had terrible problems updating apps. It was brutally slow and update all usually failed on most apps. I was very surprised that after installing the new market, I was able to do an update all on 20 apps with no problems at all.
My wife had pretty much given up on updating apps on the stock rom.
not yet tried ! But my gf had no problem at all with old and oldest market under tmob, now she's back in Italy, so I've unlocked the sim and still have no issues!
try a few different 1's and see which you like best
I like the bionix 1.3.1 with bali 1.8.7 uv kernel.
i'm not sure about the wifi calling as I dont use that feature.
Tried the new market right now, no proplems as always!
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
ROMS
As far as which rom you choose is your choice, I am running Toxic Smoke and a lot of people will agree its super quick and responsive but I support almost all roms, Devs here do great work on the vibrant and all should be recognized for it. I may have a solve for your low WiFi signal though..... Have you looked in to the Hardware GPS fix? It involves you opening up your phone and bending a small piece of copper, I did so and put a tiny sliver of credit card plastic under it to keep it from bending back down and now my GPS signal is ridiculous as compared to before. But as I read more there is another copper pin on the opposite side of the phone, that is your WIFI antenna. I then took my phone apart again and did the same thing to that pin and now My WIfI gets great signal. I guess it all depends on how tech savoy you are and how much you want to get into your phone. I know for how much it cost and how much I use my phone I wanted it working 100% so I took the extra time to do all of this and Im quite happy with my Vibrant now. But anyway my specs on my phone are,
ROM: ToxicMusixSmoke
Launcher: Golauncher Pro EX (Which is freaking awesome and free)
Kernal: Bali X (Will increase the responsiveness of your phone ff Overclocked to 1.2 using setCPU, you can download for free on XDA, cost 2.99 or something on the market, the dev offers it for free on here)
+ Hardware GPS Fix and S.gps.zip file for the drivers (You can also find this fine on the Hardware GPS fix post)
I hope this helps as my phone is very stable and I am totally satisfied with my phone as I was not so much at first. I also think with Golauncher you can get stock themes so your phone will look and act just like stock, but run 10000000000000 times better!
I am new to the samsung t959
Any recommendation for ROM? I would like to be as fast as possible, and with a working GPS
I don't mind CM7 as long as it is fastest.
Thanks a million!
]I wasn't looking for fastest.
Just need something to eliminate done of this issues we've had with stock and to be stable with everything functioning correctly.
Project V seems to have done that.
Only issue, so far, is that bloater isn't working and I can't figure a way to get the samsung stock keyboard back. Can anyone help with that?
I like that this rom is so close to stock. If I didn't tell my wife, she wouldn't have even known I changed anything.
While I no longer use it myself, I found Zendroid 2.0.1 with Bali Kernel to be the simplest and easiest to use for a layman, like the average wife or girlfriend
It's extremely lightweight with no bloat to speak of, and battery life is phenomenal (no bloat, no 2g/3g bleeding).
@lexluthor you can use root explorer our similar app to copy the apk to the system/app folder.
Sent from my hacked Samsung Vibrant running CM7.
Related
Hi,
I just bought a vibrant from ebay and waiting anxiously for it to arrive.
Meanwhile I would like to check if the official GB rom is coming soon?
If not, I will like to seek your advice a good ROM that you will recommend newbies to flash.
Thanks!
CyanogenMod 7 is pretty amazing if you are looking for a good gingerbread ROM
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA Premium App
MIUI or CM 7 but it still in Beta some bugs and no GPS
But there a lots of Great 2.2 Froyo Roms for vibrant
Hope that Helps
If you're a true noob who's not flashed a lot before I would suggest any of the 2.2.1 roms. They are all functional and a bit better than 2.2. The only thing you'll lose is wifi calling which is a huge battery drain anyway.
Right now the gingerbread roms don't have working GPS and require a little bit more experience with flashing.
My teammate and I have the Simply Galaxy/Honey series. 2.8 is very fast and stable and its 2.2.1. Team EDT also puts out quality work and you can always count on their roms to be fast and stable as well.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA Premium App
yah stick with 2.2 or 2.2.1 until u get experienced enough for cm7 or other gb roms! So id listen to explodingboy70
Thanks for all the advice! You are wonderful guys!
One more thing, will Samsung update the vibrant with an official GB rom?
I read that some said it could be done through Kies?
nhc said:
Hi,
I just bought a vibrant from ebay and waiting anxiously for it to arrive.
Meanwhile I would like to check if the official GB rom is coming soon?
If not, I will like to seek your advice a good ROM that you will recommend newbies to flash.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Simply honey 2.3.3 gb.By far the best gb for the vibrant.flawless, and easy install.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
At this point we don't know when and if we're getting an official gingerbread from T-mobile. Samsung released gingerbread for the international version only - the GT-I9000. It is not completely identical to the Vibrant. It's up to the carriers when and if they release it and put their touches on it. Once Samsung releases some source code for Gingerbread, you'll see a huge jump in gingerbread development and improvements in those roms. Until then, stick to 2.2.1 like the others have said. I stick to team whiskey's roms, and every month or so I flash to a gingerbread rom for like a week to get a feel for it, then go back to 2.2.1 since I can't deal with the bugs in our GB roms for too long at once
Hi,
Finally my phone has arrived. Its already on Official 2.2 (I guessed) with Kernel Version 2.6.32.9 with build number FROYO.UVKA6.
If I want to remain like this for now (awaiting the official GB), what are the improvement that I can or should make to the phone with the current config?
eg. Voodoo , Other kernel, modem, rom?
I would give it a few days before you starting flashing etc etc. Get used to the phone with froyo, learns the ins and out of all the settings and stuff, will come in handy when you are ready to start playing.
If you haven't already, you should read the myriad of info in the vibrant bible, focusing on rooting, flashing and the things needed. I def would get a good handle on understanding programs like titanium, busy box and rom manager as all will eventually need to be used in one way shape or form.
To be honest, after my few days of learning the ropes, you should consider after learning the phones ins and outs, using ODIN to get back to 2.1 that normally comes with the vibrant (I am not 100% sure that all vibrants came with 2.1 stock, not sure if yours is the new model or outgoing model), rooting, installing titanium backup, busybox and rom manager and make a NANDROID backup of a nice clean OS so that should you run into issues flashing, you have an emergency back up to fall back on. I just did this over the past 2 days and it was a great learning experience.
I did my first rom flash today and was pretty cool, not as hard as I thought but really teaches you the ins and outs of all this cool stuff.
The ppl here were great in helping me and answering my questions, truly a great community.
My phone came with 2.1, then upgraded to 2.2, rooted and removed all the bloatware and never backed anything up. I then realized after help here, it was better to go back to 2.1, do all the right steps to root, install the right apps above, then make a nice clean emergency backup. It def will save your ass sooner or later.
With regards to changes, with my phone when it was at 2.2, I did alot to help improve battery life, I use a black wallpaper, I only turn on wifi when needed, I don't enable GPS at all. I set brightest via power widget to lowest unless in bright sun at which time, you can easily brighten it, you can change how quickly the screen goes dark, etc etc. There's alot of things you can do but since you just got the phone, you need to see how you're going to use it, in order to customize it.
Just my 2 from a beginner
Samsung won't say when or if a release of gb will actually come to US variants. I emailed them just the other day.
If you can live without GPS, then go with cyanogen mod
Sent from my badass Vibrant
I have been looking for a while and as usual with Samsung/T-Mobile the official word on GB is very deliberately vague.
I've been trying different ROMs and between my wife's Vibrant and mine, I have tried 5 ROMs so far.
Flashing some of the simpler Froyo ROMs is definitely easier and safer then jumping straight to CM7 or MIUI.
I would go with the earlier advice of getting familiar with your phone first and making sure you are comfortable with rebooting in recovery, wipe cache, etc.
One click root, back-up and re-install some apps so you are comfortable with all that.
Once you feel good, then try the simpler ROMs. TeamWhiskey - Nero is the first one I tried and it was easy to install and quite fast.
After that, went with Bionix.
Now I'm running SimpleHoney and on my wife's phone we are running DarkyRom 9.5.
All of these can be flashed through CWM which makes them simpler and safer.
Hope this helps! Enjoy your phone.
Sav
Thank you all for the replies. The advice and guidance are really much appreciated.
After one whole day fooling around, I finally managed to Root it and to install Simple Galaxy 2.8. I had some problems initially with the new 3e recovery from froyo causing unable to root problem. But I googled it and managed to workaround it.
I will play with the phone for a few more days before I decide if I want to go for the next level, GB
Go check out EDT's Asgard rom. Pretty slick.
I really just want to use my phone as a WIFI device and have it as fast as I can. Seems like most roms I load still make it quite slow.
Also one where the camera works without bugs would be nice.
Anyways, I think there is a script that lets you disable the radio and mobile, but what ROM would be best if I just want something clean, stable, and quick. nothing fancy.
Vanilla I've heard about, but not sure of the correct one to go with.
Thanks
bryank29 said:
I really just want to use my phone as a WIFI device and have it as fast as I can. Seems like most roms I load still make it quite slow.
Also one where the camera works without bugs would be nice.
Anyways, I think there is a script that lets you disable the radio and mobile, but what ROM would be best if I just want something clean, stable, and quick. nothing fancy.
Vanilla I've heard about, but not sure of the correct one to go with.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As fast as it can run, with a stable camera? Honestly, I think that you are best off with one of the xtr close-to-stock ROMs (xtrSENSE, xtrROM if you don't want the Sense launcher.) I'm not sure if the WiFi only script works on these - I've never tried them - so you'll have to try yourself.
(One of the best parts about being rooted is that it's easy to try things out and then just Nandroid restore back to something that worked if you try something that messes up.)
I use GSB and really wouldn't consider any other ROM on the Eris as an option. GSB is definitely the best out there, and with the "Wifi only" script the battery life is pretty amazing too.
Currently using GSB v4.4, running efficiently. So it may be an option to choose, however, there are other rom's that run great too. For example, Gin-Tazz-aosp; I found to run great, another one to consider. Subsequently, just try rom's that lurk and see which one runs remuneratively(in your perspective)
I have just rooted my Eris, and I'm debating which way to go regarding a new ROM. I want to keep all of the major device functions, and I'm really just wanting to speed up the operation of the phone. Adding some visual excitement wouldn't be bad either. Does GSB 4.4 provide this?
BTW, the phone is currently running 2.1 OTA.
Thanks!
Designman said:
I have just rooted my Eris, and I'm debating which way to go regarding a new ROM. I want to keep all of the major device functions, and I'm really just wanting to speed up the operation of the phone. Adding some visual excitement wouldn't be bad either. Does GSB 4.4 provide this?
BTW, the phone is currently running 2.1 OTA.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you can consider xtrSense; since it derives from most of all the Sense. Also, GSB is a CM7 nightly and is particularly focused on CM7 only. Furthermore, it does not contain any Sense functions. Now don't get me wrong GSB Is phenomenal. Though, if your considering something mostly with Sense, xtrSense is advised; also it being overclocked, Collin_Ph script(saves battery), etcetera. Hope this helped
Sent from my ERIS using xda premium
Designman,
Definitely go with GSB 4.4. I've used this series of Roms since oct '10 and it's been great. I just upgraded to the Razr but I still use my Eris to play around on. I actually just flashed 4.4 from 4.3. the other night and it's really good. You'll like it and obviously it's got full functionality, the only major bug that I know might still exist is with Maps 5.5. or later isn't compatible. But there's an easy fix for that.
I live in a poor radio reception area, so I'm thinking of streaming internet radio stations over WiFi while doing yard work. Sort of a WiFi walkman.
An iTouch would work, but I have tons of android apps & games.
The galaxy player is nice, but that's kinda overkill.
So I thought a used smartphone would be a perfect choice.
One that has good WiFi range, and enough power to run games.
Nothing heavy gaming wise, I have a Nook Color running 99% of the games I like just fine, so anything comparable would do.
After looking around, the Galaxy S family seemed to be a pretty good choice, and lots of used Fascinate phones are on ebay for around $100.
So here I am, with a few questions...
Is the (Verizon) Fascinate a good choice, or are there better (or cheaper) versions from other carriers? Keep in mind I'm not ever going to use this as a phone, so even a bad ESN would work for me, right?
How about wifi range?
Are there any problems I haven't thought of.... if I flash something like CM7, can I run apps, media, etc. without Verizon ?
In other words, will this run apps, Market, like my CM7 Nook Color?
Is there a better place than ebay to look for one?
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Howdy!
First off, I use the Galaxy S Fasciante, and it is a pretty decent phone. I picked it up for $90 used, had some scratches on the screen, and dings, but not too shabby. [Ended up having to get the main board replaced a week b4 the warranty ended, but that is another story]
Unfortunately, from what I've experienced so far [owned the fascinate for maybe 1.5 months], my fascinate does not seem to do as well for wifi as my previous Droid X2, and, I am not sure, [Need to do a side-by-side comparison] my iPod touch 4.
That being said, I would suggest flashing either JT's vanilla GB, or maybe TSM Pool Party [I am still experimenting with the latter as of last week], because the stock is bloated.
You can still use the Market, Gmail, and all that by flashing the gapps package after flashing the rom. But if you decide the stock rom is good enough, I believe it should be fine as far as using it without a cell phone plan.
One thing though, if you wipe the data, and it's not on a plan, it will prompt you to "activate your phone"
Of course, it will fail, and will not let you into the os until it's active. So what I did when I was in this situation was look up the code to bypass activation. Just google "fascinate bypass activation" and you will find threads with the number you dial. cool beans
oh and as far as where to look for one, yes, ebay is fine, also you might check Craigslist. That's where I bought 2 android phones, and 2 laptops within 12 months.
and one more thing on the wifi, I am not sure if my wifi is just abnormally weak, or if that's how it is. anyone else care to elaborate how their wifi experiences have been?
Thanks mvmacd, that's just the info I needed!
I just went ahead and ordered a Fascinate on eBay a couple hours ago.
Reading other posts, the weak WiFi was mentioned, but I'm hoping it's not a hardware issue, and can be improved with a ROM.
If all else fails, I might get by with dusting off an old Linksys WRT54G router and using it as a repeater.
That tip on the activation bypass is something new to me, as this is the first phone I've messed with. All WiFi tablets up till now.
I assume that only applies to the stock Fascinate, so if I flash CM7, I won't have to worry about activation, right?
cm7 based Roms which were ported mostly by jt1134, have a lot of reverse engineering hacks for the phones hardware because there is no source code for that type of stuff. There are also Touchwiz based roms which run on the stock hardware configuration from Samsung, and are rooted, debloated, and there are kernels for those roms with voodoo Lagfix which make the phone about 3x faster than factory. It could have better wifi range with the stock hardware drivers than with jt's. With what you're going to use it for a Touchwiz ROM is best imho as the battery life was also superior when compared to CM7 roms on this phone.
Also the fascinate has very good headphone hardware, which supercurio turned into a audiophile quality experience with voodoo sound. When I move on to the galaxy nexus I will be keeping my fascinate for music.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
Wow! you guys have given me a lot if good info.
I'm getting a clearer picture of the Fascinate/Samsung hardware ROM development now.
Like I said, I'm new to phones. Different animals from the WiFi tablets I'm used to (Viewsonic Gtablet and BN Nook Color).
I'll look for a Touchwiz ROM with lagfix then.
BTW, other posts concerning the weak WiFi mentioned an app called WiFi Fixer.
Looks promising. Lots of positive reviews.
Makes me wonder, does this have to do with the ROM choosing to switch to 3G, and apps like WiFi Fixer just lock on to WiFi?
Maybe I'm cynical, but knowing Big Red, maybe their software is partial to a paid data plan over WiFi.
My Fascinate has a weaker signal.compared to 2 of my iPod touch 2g and 4g, My iPod touches would have 4 bars while my fascinate would only have 2. Never tried using any app or hacks to boost the signal since I use 3g but I know that EH03 gave me better signal as a phone compared to the older radios.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
Also. If you want to pack a sd card full of music, and don't care what version of Android you have. I will suggest the dj05 superdark ROM. It is eclair "before Froyo". But I would go a full 8 hour day at work listening to music and still have 80% battery when I got home. wifi would drain a little faster, but any ROM in the dj05 service release is well known to have seemingly impossible battery life. at least by anyone who had the phone that early. If it was not for the want of running apps that require newer versions of Android I would still be on that ROM.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
SpinKix said:
Thanks mvmacd, that's just the info I needed!
I just went ahead and ordered a Fascinate on eBay a couple hours ago.
Reading other posts, the weak WiFi was mentioned, but I'm hoping it's not a hardware issue, and can be improved with a ROM.
If all else fails, I might get by with dusting off an old Linksys WRT54G router and using it as a repeater.
That tip on the activation bypass is something new to me, as this is the first phone I've messed with. All WiFi tablets up till now.
I assume that only applies to the stock Fascinate, so if I flash CM7, I won't have to worry about activation, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you probably won't need it, but just for reference, here's how to bypass activation on stock rom:
press emergency call button,
then at the dialer,
press *#83786633,
then press the Home key
As far as the rest of the roms, I do believe the other roms have a "Skip activation" button, so you do not have to worry about it.
Oh, one more thing. Developers are working on an ICS port [Android 4.0] for the fascinate! They released Build 6 just two days ago, and I am seriously considering trying it out.
edit: the ICS rom is epic. Not sure if I am getting worse battery life or not, but it is stable and looks way cooler.
Just got the phone... and it turns out I needed the code right off the bat.
Also every time I power it back on.
You saved the day!
Now I'm trying to get my head around all the Roms, Kernels, Voodoo, Red, Blue, GEEWIZ, KGB, ODIN, Heimdall, DJ05, EH03, Deodexed......... ARRRRgh!!
Like cramming for a final, I've been through glossaries, acronyms, guides, tutorials, faq for days.
Tablets were easy, just load a file on the sd card and restore.
I never knew you could mix roms, & kernels.
I'm going to start with ODIN, get rooted and load CWM and do a nandroid backup.
Also get ADB tested just in case. I also have a rough idea about voodoo rewriting the file system to ext4, and not flashing non voodoo stuff.
I'm a noob at this stuff, so I'm sure I'll take me a while.
As for the phone, I'm really impressed with the screen and how smooth it operates. Nice hardware. It can stream CNN video where the Nook stuttered. Can't handle CNN HD though.
All in all, the used phone is in pretty good condition for $89. Couple scratches on the screen, but not too bad. Naturally, the chrome bezel looks rough, but the headphone jack is perfect, and the sound is impressive.
Still take this over an itouch any day.
I can tell this is going to take up a lot of my spare time, but it's fun.
Thanks for all your help... off I go!
Ahh you know I was kind of wondering if you would need to enter the code after each reboot..
Yeah, at first I was really confused about android, roms, kernels, and all that.. Just take it easy, and eventually you will have it all down.
If you like bleeding edge software, you might wanna take a look at this Android 4 [Ice cream sandwich] rom here. I have it running on my fascinate, and I like it
Some friendly advice..
Never use anything marked for Telus
When using Odin, always use PDA PDA PDA..... Never phone!
Nandroid only when you get a sweet setup, before flashing something new.. If the new theme, kernel, etc messes things up. nandroid restore to the rescue.
Never mix Mtd stuff with BML (Touchwiz) stuff.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
First of all I would like to apologize if you have heard these questions a thousand times before, but I have done a fair amount of reading and haven't gotten enough concrete answers to be confident enough to continue.
I just got up the courage to root my Fascinate after over a year of having it by following droidstyle's excellent guide. It was very painless and worked first shot, so no worries there. Now I'm at the point of what to do next... I have already frozen the bloatware and looked into some 'root-friendly' apps but I'm not sure where to go from here. I think I've decided I want to get the most out of this thing as I'm not due for an upgrade for (what seems like) a long time. I'm under the impression that installing a good ICS rom is the way to go but I just have a few noob questions before I continue.
1) From what I have been reading Glitched AOKP ICS is the best rom to use currently on the Fascinate, correct? Also quick question, regarding the link to download it... is the current version the build 34 one or the milestone 5 one at the top?
2) Rooting my phone initially didn't erase any of my apps or data. What will installing an ICS rom erase, if anything? I will make backups of course, but I'm just wondering what to expect. Will the 'bloatware' apps still be there or will installing ICS install new system apps?
3) What market apps should I consider 'must haves' to tweak stuff? I already bought setcpu but haven't invested in anything else yet.
4) I plan to follow section 4 of droidstyle's guide but need clarification... even though I have rooted stock 2.3, I should still follow all steps right?
Thank you for listening to my noob questions and thanks to anyone who can offer advice. I have been building and working on computers for years but this cell phone hacking stuff is all new to me (obviously).
Crawshayi said:
First of all I would like to apologize if you have heard these questions a thousand times before, but I have done a fair amount of reading and haven't gotten enough concrete answers to be confident enough to continue.
I just got up the courage to root my Fascinate after over a year of having it by following droidstyle's excellent guide. It was very painless and worked first shot, so no worries there. Now I'm at the point of what to do next... I have already frozen the bloatware and looked into some 'root-friendly' apps but I'm not sure where to go from here. I think I've decided I want to get the most out of this thing as I'm not due for an upgrade for (what seems like) a long time. I'm under the impression that installing a good ICS rom is the way to go but I just have a few noob questions before I continue.
1) From what I have been reading Glitched AOKP ICS is the best rom to use currently on the Fascinate, correct? Also quick question, regarding the link to download it... is the current version the build 34 one or the milestone 5 one at the top?
2) Rooting my phone initially didn't erase any of my apps or data. What will installing an ICS rom erase, if anything? I will make backups of course, but I'm just wondering what to expect. Will the 'bloatware' apps still be there or will installing ICS install new system apps?
3) What market apps should I consider 'must haves' to tweak stuff? I already bought setcpu but haven't invested in anything else yet.
4) I plan to follow section 4 of droidstyle's guide but need clarification... even though I have rooted stock 2.3, I should still follow all steps right?
Thank you for listening to my noob questions and thanks to anyone who can offer advice. I have been building and working on computers for years but this cell phone hacking stuff is all new to me (obviously).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) M5 is newest. Get glitched build off of the exynos server.
2) Complete wipe. A desktop equivalent would be formatting your hard drive with Windows Vista installed and doing a fresh install of windows 7.
Backup all data and contacts locally or on the cloud. Do NOT use Verizon to backup your contact data. Use Google or a local backup instead.
No bloatware will be present since custom roms do not come from the carrier.
3) NSTools. Maybe Root Explorer or wi-fi tether for google
4) Just follow the guide. Rooting doesn't have much to do with recovery and intalling ics and such.
Not to knock ICS, because I love AOKP, but you could also consider working your way there over time. I had a lot of fun playing with different Touchwiz ROMs like SC3 and TSM Res. You may even find one along the way that you want to stick with for a while. At the very least, you'll learn to get where a complete data wipe doesn't even slow you down.
There's so much good stuff still available for this phone. My phone is sheer perfections right now, but I still have plans to try out GeeWiz and MIUI.
Everyone knows the current destination is Glitched AOKP, but the fun is in the journey.
I agree. I would download everything rom,kernel, and app you can find for the phone between here and rootzwiki, just in case links go dead. Tsm res and awesome sauce are two very good roms that I had a ton of fun with. They are more forgiving to the new user as far as making mistakes goes. Couple of things to know before you continue are that you can use the three finger method to get into recovery on touchwiz roms but not the ics roms(must enter recovery through power off menu). You also cant just flash back and forth from touchwiz roms and cm7 or ics roms, as you have to follow certain steps
Sent from my SCH-I500 using Tapatalk
Well I was planning on jumping right into ICS as it looks amazing and I don't think I want to wait... however I wouldn't be opposed to the idea of trying different roms later on down the road. Is it going to be a pain to go backwards from ICS, or just flash like usual? Also, to those that have tried most of the 'good' roms, what would you consider your top 3 non-ICS?
Also on the subject of backing up my apps... I have been using Mybackup as it seems the most simplistic to use and reliable. Will my apps be exactly as they were when I backed them up (after switching to ICS) or is it just better to re-download what I need and configure them again?
I hate to spam some more questions but I figure since I already am... just a few more...
I haven't really messed with Setcpu that much, but is it bad to have it at 100/1000 or should I keep the max lower than that? And last one... what's the best wifi tether to use so Verizon won't send their goons after me? Is the USB tether from clockwork mod any good?
Thanks to all of you for your input. I think I'll be attempting to flash to ICS tomorrow night and hopefully all goes well.
You can go from touchwiz roms to isc roms by flashing but you need to do a lot more using the computer to go backwards. It will make more sense once you have a better understanding. Use titanium backup to backup your apps. If you really dont have any then just redownload them. If you are on the touchwiz roms you can use setcpu, but for ics roms you are going to be using an app called nstools or from control (built into settings section of rom). Again, more of this will make sense later down the road that is why I figured it would be better to start on a from like tsm Res or awesome sauslce
Sent from my SCH-I500 using Tapatalk
Well I'm still on the fence here on what to do. I really want to run ICS but with all the little glitches I've read about I think maybe I'll try some of the better GB roms first... I think TSM Res looks top for me with the features, but I might try more than just 1. I've heard not to restore data backups when going ICS... does this apply to GB roms as well? Should I also switch the radio or is what I have the same as the GB one? Thanks
Crawshayi said:
Well I'm still on the fence here on what to do. I really want to run ICS but with all the little glitches I've read about I think maybe I'll try some of the better GB roms first... I think TSM Res looks top for me with the features, but I might try more than just 1. I've heard not to restore data backups when going ICS... does this apply to GB roms as well? Should I also switch the radio or is what I have the same as the GB one? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AOKP milestone 5. You WILL thank me for it. Make sure its Steve's glitchy (the kernel of course) build.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
mezster said:
AOKP milestone 5. You WILL thank me for it. Make sure its Steve's glitchy (the kernel of course) build.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't like the one they just released a few days ago?
Crawshayi said:
You don't like the one they just released a few days ago?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is a nightly and has a minor bug where apps on SD card force close. No biggie for more experienced users who know its a nightly and can deal. Nightlies are bleeding edge releases and as such can contain a bug or two. Milestones are stable releases to be used as a reliable daily driver if one is needed (some do). I recommend the m5 release since it is a milestone and you are new to this. I also want to see you have the best experience possible.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
Please use the Q&A Forum for questions &
Read the Forum Rules Ref Posting
Moving to Q&A
I'm in a similar spot. I put CM7 on my wife's phone a while ago, but she has downloaded so much crap on it it's running like garbage and crashing.
Does the AOKP M5 have any bugs I should be aware of? As long as it's working well and everything is working (WiFi, Camera, MMS, etc), she'll be fine with it as a daily driver.
Two other questions I have.
Where can I get the correct glitchy Kernel?
Do I just need to download the ROM and kernel, wipe data/cache, then flash the ROM then kernel, then gapps (in that order) in Clockwork Recovery? Anything else?
She really likes the ICS stuff I've been showing her on my Rezound, especially the speech to text typing.
Thanks for your feedback.
EDIT
Added Information:
Just to make sure my i's are dotted and my t's are crossed--
Build for Verizon Fascinate:
http://forum.aokp.co/page/releases/_/milestone-5-r20
fascinatemtd Samsung Fascinate
Glitch Kernel:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1459475
Are those right?
EDIT 2
Should I update radios as well? (Assuming yes since going to AOKP from CM7). Which ones should I do? Again, is this a simple flash in CWR? What's the install sequence?
Thanks.
EtherBoo said:
I'm in a similar spot. I put CM7 on my wife's phone a while ago, but she has downloaded so much crap on it it's running like garbage and crashing.
Does the AOKP M5 have any bugs I should be aware of? As long as it's working well and everything is working (WiFi, Camera, MMS, etc), she'll be fine with it as a daily driver.
Two other questions I have.
Where can I get the correct glitchy Kernel?
Do I just need to download the ROM and kernel, wipe data/cache, then flash the ROM then kernel, then gapps (in that order) in Clockwork Recovery? Anything else?
She really likes the ICS stuff I've been showing her on my Rezound, especially the speech to text typing.
Thanks for your feedback.
EDIT
Added Information:
Just to make sure my i's are dotted and my t's are crossed--
Build for Verizon Fascinate:
http://forum.aokp.co/page/releases/_/milestone-5-r20
fascinatemtd Samsung Fascinate
Glitch Kernel:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1459475
Are those right?
EDIT 2
Should I update radios as well? (Assuming yes since going to AOKP from CM7). Which ones should I do? Again, is this a simple flash in CWR? What's the install sequence?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get the Milestone 5 Glitched build found HERE
It includes the Glitch kernel, so no need to flash separately, and also has a few extra cherry picks thrown in. This is a Milestone build, so no real bugs, should run smooth as silk.
I'm not sure of the recommended radio for fascinate on ICS.
jbreakfield said:
Get the Milestone 5 Glitched build found HERE
It includes the Glitch kernel, so no need to flash separately, and also has a few extra cherry picks thrown in. This is a Milestone build, so no real bugs, should run smooth as silk.
I'm not sure of the recommended radio for fascinate on ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Might sound like a cheesy question, but what radios are you running?
Thanks for your help.
jbreakfield said:
Get the Milestone 5 Glitched build found HERE
It includes the Glitch kernel, so no need to flash separately, and also has a few extra cherry picks thrown in. This is a Milestone build, so no real bugs, should run smooth as silk.
I'm not sure of the recommended radio for fascinate on ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
QFT.
Get the Glitched build as it has fixes, extra available RAM, and much more not available in the AOKP official build.
Wifi, cam, and MMS all work fine. I can't honestly think of anything not working off the top of my head. NovaLauncher (Regular is free, Prime is $4 and well worth it for gestures) is recommended at this point since Apex has gotten a little slow.
Radio is recommended to be EH03 though I think ec09 and anything newer than eh03 work fine. I am running EH03 and no complaints.
I think I remember reading something about torch not working in ICS... is that the type of app that turns on the LED? Believe it or not I use that a lot and it would be a pain if it didn't work when I switch.
Also, is there any way to check what radio you're currently using before flashing? Tried looking that up but couldn't find it
Ah yes...torch doesn't work but you can use the tiny flashlight app to turn on the flash and achieve the same functionality.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
bobloblaw1 said:
Ah yes...torch doesn't work but you can use the tiny flashlight app to turn on the flash and achieve the same functionality.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Tiny Flashlight + LED app? That's actually what I'm using now and if that works then I'm all set... I thought when people said 'torch' they just meant any app that turns on the LED
I flashed and ran into 1 problem. I had to flash Team Hacksungs Build 2 ROM first. Flashing glitched put me in an endless boot. Then I couldn't boot to recovery. I really was flipping out.
I had to Odin a new recovery in, wipe, then flash Team Hacksungs Build 2 ROM. For some reason, it booted into AOKP (?) then. I went back to recovery, wiped, reflashed AOKP and got it working.
I haven't searched yet, but anyone know where I can change the boot screen? It's really not a "wife friendly" boot screen.
As I understand it, torch refers to the built in flashlight feature in aokp called torch. Tiny flashlight plus the widget give similar functionality.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda premium
Help a noob out? I have a virgin DX2 - never rooted - freshly updated to 2.3.5 (was in the soak) - and I'm finally ready to root it and try out a ROM. I've been lurking here for a week or so reading & trying to learn all I can about the process - and I think I'm ready to give it a shot.
Obviously Step 1 is to SBF back to 2.3.4 so I can get rooted, but after that is where I'm running into some indecision. I can't decide if I want to go straight to CM7 from there - or follow the instructions to keep root, SBF back to 2.3.5 and install Eclipse 2.2.
I know both ROMs have their loyal followers and I'm sure either would be a big improvement over stock Blur... and I know it's easy enough to try BOTH of them once I get the hang of all this... but I'd still appreciate some advice about which to try first.
For those of you who've tried both, which do you prefer? What are the pros & cons of each?
Thanks!
TheRaven65 said:
I know both ROMs have their loyal followers and I'm sure either would be a big improvement over stock Blur... and I know it's easy enough to try BOTH of them once I get the hang of all this... but I'd still appreciate some advice about which to try first.
For those of you who've tried both, which do you prefer? What are the pros & cons of each?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm guessing you've seen this thread? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1632111
Seems to center around Eclipse and CM7 mostly. Eclipse can be a bit more polished in my estimation, mostly due to HDMI, FM radio, less buggy, you know, all the bells and whistles working. For the most part, either way you go you'll be fine.
Currently I have myself and my wife on CM7, we both like it. No real issues to speak of.
I personally perfer CM7RC1 its a solid daily driver very minor issues and I never get bored with it. Here's my overview of both ROMs.
CM7RC1
Pros:
Extremely Smooth.
Lots Of Mods/Tweaks.
Endless Customization.
Gingerbread 2.37
Theme Engine.
Wifi Tethering
Fully AOSP.
Toggles.
Cons:
HDMI Mirroring Is Unsupported.
FM Radio Is Unsupported.
Bugs:
Data Triangle. (Fixed By Reboot, *228)
Battery Exclamation. (Fixed By Reboot)
Some Experience Wifi Connecting Issues. (Fixed By Manual Connect)
Eclipse 2.2
Very Smooth.
Few Mods/Tweaks.
Limited Customization.
Gingerbread 2.35.
Flashable Themes.
AOSP/BLUR Hybrid.
Toggles.
Cons:
Lack Of Customization.
Is Only Gingerbread 2.35.
No Tethering.
Bugs:
Some Experience Wifi Resetting. (No Fix ATM)
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
I have tried out every x2 rom under the sun and as of right now I think your best bet is cm7. I would recommend running the cm7 mash up script, along with the dual core script, because with both of these the res is flawless.
but of course, I think you should try both of them out because it is personal preference. And if we get cm9 here soon then we will all be happy little cracked out, flashed up, ics'd whores with everything we can dream of for the x2, with some extra feta cheese.
Sent from my MB870 using XDA
S3AL3DF4T3 said:
I personally perfer CM7 its a solid daily driver very minor issues and I never get bored with it. Here's my overview of both ROMs.
CM7
Pros:
Extremely Smooth.
Lots Of Mods/Tweaks.
Endless Customization.
Gingerbread 2.37
Theme Engine.
Wifi Tethering
Fully AOSP.
Toggles.
Cons:
HDMI Mirroring Is Unsupported.
FM Radio Is Unsupported.
Bugs:
Data Triangle. (Fixed By Reboot, *228)
Battery Exclamation. (Fixed By Reboot)
Some Experience Wifi Connecting Issues. (Fixed By Manual Connect)
Eclipse 2.2
Very Smooth.
Few Mods/Tweaks.
Limited Customization.
Gingerbread 2.35.
Flashable Themes.
AOSP/BLUR Hybrid.
Toggles.
Cons:
Lack Of Customization.
Is Only Gingerbread 2.35.
No Tethering.
Bugs:
Some Experience Wifi Resetting. (No Fix ATM)
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a fair evaluation of both ROMs but really it all boils down to personal preference and things like if you need HDMI and stuff like that...I personally never use HDMI or the FM radio...but still liked eclipse and that's what I have on my wife's phone albeit its 2.1...I am sure when CM9 comes out she will like to try it...in short flash them both run them for a week or so and see which one you like and go from there
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
HitMyKush said:
I have tried out every x2 rom under the sun and as of right now I think your best bet is cm7. I would recommend running the cm7 mash up script, along with the dual core script, because with both of these the res is flawless.
but of course, I think you should try both of them out because it is personal preference. And if we get cm9 here soon then we will all be happy little cracked out, flashed up, ics'd whores with everything we can dream of for the x2, with some extra feta cheese.
Sent from my MB870 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The end of your post made my day...
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
Just a caution on CM7; I haven't tried the latest release but on the first release the camcorder continuous auto-focus didn't function. It seemed to focus once when you press the shutter button and remain fixed, and sometimes that focus was in error itself. Not a lot of people seem to care about that but my phone has the heavy responsibility of archiving my sons' most important memories for them to look back on when they are older, so I just went back to stock rom. Other than that, CM7 seemed great.
I use CM7RC1 Dual Core Script, Build Prop Mashup, 8 Touch Point Mod, Cron Scheduler, Beats Audio, 3 CDMA Mods. My phone is blazing fast!
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
In my experience the beats audio hack ruined my sound quality. Also the dual core script......Our 2nd core boots up automatically when there's a demand for more memory. Dragonzkiller even stated this is the dual core script thread. Keeping both on at all times pretty much only drains your battery faster. Only difference I noticed with it was the home screen animations were a little snappier. Wasn't enough change in performance for the lack of battery IMHO. Just a few things if you go the CM7 route. Never tried Eclipse so I can't help you there.
Sent from my stupid smartphone
Why do these keep popping up...the search bar is definitely not be used...
Anyways...Eclipse is literally a hair slower than cm7 but it is worlds more stable. Wifi on Eclipse far better than cm7's. Cm7 has some SU issues but they can be fixed by installing Super SU from the market and getting rid of the normal SU app.
Tethering is easier on cm7 is strong -- heat is something you'll have to worry about. I've tethered on Eclipse through the use of a Market app so a little more work must be done there.
Downside to Eclipse is that you must go to 2.3.5 to use it whereas Cm7 is 2.3.4. Battery life on Eclipse is better for me. I've had serious computer trouble this past month and have had to do some research for papers on my phone! With the brightness on full, Gmusic/Pandora/power amp going and internet on my battery would last ~6-9 hours.
I should also mention that I have the Second Core Script going and my battery life took a very small. Not backbreaking but noticeable.
Not going to lie ; your phone will heat up slightly more regardless of the rom you're on when you use the script
Personally I enjoy Eclipse much more than cm7. Blue is my favorite color
Come over to the dark side...
Hmm haven't ran into any sound issues yet. As far as the dual core script I understand the core will activate on demand. The thing is this only happens when the CPU becomes so over tasked by processes it create a short lag before kicking in. This script makes that laggy transition disappear. I would only recommend this script for people with the extended battery like me tho.
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
S3AL3DF4T3 said:
The thing is this only happens when the CPU becomes so over tasked by processes it create a short lag before kicking in. This script makes that laggy transition disappear.
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Obviously, lol... no "lag" or time needed to boot because its already always on...
Did you use the script editor in ROM toolbox to apply it, sealedfate? If so do you check apply on boot, or do you only use it when you see fit?
Sent from my stupid smartphone
If you have a X2 now I would say you have to try them both. Run one for a couple of weeks do a nano back up and then try the other for a couple of weeks. Then you can decide which you like better. Or you can do like I did and just keep going back and forth every few weeks because you love them both
I have the script in system/ect/init.d so it applies on boot. Helps a hell of a lot with 3D games.
Sent from my MB870 using xda premium
thelowend said:
Why do these keep popping up...the search bar is definitely not be used...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, like I said in my first post, I'm been doing nothing but searching and reading on here for the past week or so. Eclipse 2.2 just dropped a week ago, so I was looking for fresh opinions from people who had tried CM7 and that version specifically.
I appreciate all the helpful comments from everyone though. I think I'll do like a few of you suggested and try them both eventually... starting with CM7.
Hopefully we can all add CM9 to the list of ROMs to try very soon!
Dragonzkiller is currently working on the CM9 release for DX2! Keep up to date on his twitter page
www.twitter.com/dragonzkiller
Sent from my stupid smartphone
RoyJ said:
Dragonzkiller is currently working on the CM9 release for DX2! Keep up to date on his twitter page
Sent from my stupid smartphone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep! I've been following his Twitter feed and the "CM9DX2 anticipation" thread on here. Can't wait to see how it goes. Sounds like he's REAL close!
Success! Following Moon Shadow's instructions to the letter, I successfully SBF'd back to 2.3.4, rooted, and installed CM7 without any problems whatsoever. CM7 is up and running! Just need to get my apps reinstalled and I'll be good to go. Man... you guys weren't kidding. The phone is SOOOO much faster/smoother now, it's not even funny. Should have done this a long time ago.
Thanks everyone!
OK, it appears that I spoke too soon. I realized soon after that the Google apps did not get loaded on my phone (Gmail, Maps, Nav, YouTube, etc.), but some of the other apps in that same ZIP file DID get installed (Talk). Also, my old background pic was still on the phone.
I was able to download/install the missing Google apps without any problem and they all work perfectly (including Nav from the car dock) - and everything else has been running flawlessly. The phone is very fast & smooth... no bugs... not a single force close or reboot yet after fairly heavy use for the last couple of days.
So... obviously something didn't go perfectly with my install, but as far as I can tell, everything is fine with the phone. How can I tell if I'm missing anything else? Should I just keep what I have or SBF back to 2.3.4 and start over again? I'm perfectly happy with it right now - but maybe I don't know what I'm missing.
TheRaven65 said:
OK, it appears that I spoke too soon. I realized soon after that the Google apps did not get loaded on my phone (Gmail, Maps, Nav, YouTube, etc.), but some of the other apps in that same ZIP file DID get installed (Talk). Also, my old background pic was still on the phone.
I was able to download/install the missing Google apps without any problem and they all work perfectly (including Nav from the car dock) - and everything else has been running flawlessly. The phone is very fast & smooth... no bugs... not a single force close or reboot yet after fairly heavy use for the last couple of days.
So... obviously something didn't go perfectly with my install, but as far as I can tell, everything is fine with the phone. How can I tell if I'm missing anything else? Should I just keep what I have or SBF back to 2.3.4 and start over again? I'm perfectly happy with it right now - but maybe I don't know what I'm missing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure how anyone might be able to tell you what you might be missing on your phone. It is pretty basic what you get, not a lot of bells and whistles put in by default.
Not aware of a comprehensive list of what you should have exactly.
Sent from my MB870 using XDA