[GUIDE] Root, unlock, and install a custom firmware! - AT&T LG Optimus G

The aim of this guide is to enable you to install a custom firmware on your Optimus G while being as clear, accurate and succinct as possible. This guide is intended for use by Windows users with an AT&T Optimus G (AKA LGE970).
I've presented the following sections in a specific order for a reason: you need to root to unlock, and you need to unlock to install a custom firmware. If you're currently running what the manufacturer gave you, you need to start with rooting, then unlocking, then trying other firmwares. Be careful, good luck, and have fun!
How to "root" your Optimus G
(Optional if you have another means of un-RARing) Download and install 7-zip from here. You need this to open certain types of archives (specifically .rar, but you might also want to open .tar, .bz2, or other types of archives in the future). This program is supremely awesome in its ability to open almost any archive you throw at it. It's also unobtrusive and efficient.
Download and install LG USB Drivers from here. Without these drivers, your computer won't be able to effectively communicate with your phone. This is vital for the steps we will be taking.
Enable USB debugging by going to Settings->(General)->Developer options" and checking the box next to "USB debugging." You will get warnings. You can probably ignore them. This setting will allow you to run commands on your phone from your computer (via USB). For more info on the Android Debug Bridge, click here.
Download and extract (using 7-zip (or whatever)) the root exploit from here.
Connect your phone to the computer with your USB cable.
Put the phone into "Charge Only" mode at Settings->General->PC connection->USB connection type
Open CurrentRoot.bat and follow its prompts. You will need to change from "Charge Only" to "Media sync (MTP)" mode. The setting is in the same place.
Run SuperSU (now in your apps drawer) it and make sure it works. This program allows others to gain access to superuser privileges. For more info on rooting and what kind of stuff it lets you do, click here and/or use Google.
If that didn't work for you, try following instructions from the thread where this root method came from.
How to unlock the bootloader
The bootloader is the first program your phone runs and its main job is to load the operating system. The stock bootloader is locked and will only run versions of Android that LG and AT&T want it to. Since our goal is to install and run custom firmwares, we must circumvent this locked bootloader. Luckily, thecubed and Shellnut2 have found a way to do this for us. What you want to do is buy Shelnutt's app. There are several reasons you should throw down some cash on this:
It's way easy to use
It'll make backups of your stock recovery/bootloader for you, it'll also make restoring these backups easy
The money is for a good cause
If you're still confused, visit thecubed's thread. He is the man, thank him a billion times. Then thank him again for being a nice guy.
For the convenience of those interested, here is the more laborious/error prone/manual way to unlock (NOTE: this method does NOT work if you've updated to Jelly Bean, you need to use the app):
If you haven't already, download and install 7-Zip and the LG USB drivers, and make sure you have USB Debugging turned on (see above).
Download the latest version of the bootloader unlock here (latest version has the highest version number).
Ensure that your screen is on and unlocked (I'd go to "Settings->Display->Screen timeout" and set the timeout to never to make sure the screen doesn't go off during this process). Your screen must remain on because SuperSU will ask you to grant superuser privileges to the unlock script and you want to be able to tap "Yes" when the time comes.
Connect your phone to the computer with your USB cable, and run the freegee.bat script in extracted files on your computer. Do NOT run this script as administrator. The install will fail if you do. Follow the prompts. You can ignore "No space left on the device" errors, but "adb.exe not found" or "tar: invalid magic" errors are not negligible and indicate either you skipping a step, a funky download, or something very bad.
Once the script finishes, make sure you have a populated "backups" folder in the folder where freegee.bat lives. The backups folder contains your original stock/locked bootloader, which you might want if you ever want to revert to stock.
If you're sure the script ran successfully, power off the phone. Next, hold down the power and volume up keys simultaneously to enter fastboot mode. You should see a screen that looks like this:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
In fastboot mode, there is a menu, but it's hidden. To navigate it, remember that volume up moves the cursor up, volume down moves it down, and power selects the currently highlighted option. The options are, in order:
Start - boot the phone normally [highlighted by default]
Restart Bootloader - reboot into bootloader
Recovery Mode - enter ClockworkMod recovery (more on this later)
Power Off - (duh)
Here is a video of thecubed showing you how to get to ClockworkMod from the bootloader (like a boss):
Using Team Win Recovery Project
Team Win Recovery Project (AKA TWRP) is a recovery, which basically allows you to install new firmwares and apply updates/modifications to already-installed firmwares (and a bunch of other things, like mounting and formatting portions of your phone's memory). It is the default recovery option when you use the Freegee app to unlock your phone (the other is Clockworkmod, which is so similar I won't be writing a separate guide on how to use it). Navigating TWRP is fairly self explanatory. Many great guides on how to use TWRP have been written and can be found via Google. Here is the first search result that came up for me. It's a pretty good guide.
One thing I will vehemently recommend is that you make a backup every time you install a new firmware. Personally, I backup apps and texts with Titanium Backup and my current firmware via TWRP (the linked guide explains how to make a backup in TWRP). Backups are a good idea and people should always make them. ALWAYS.
Installing custom firmwares
Follow the firmware author's instructions EXACTLY. These guys know what they are doing, certainly more than you or I. Check out the development threads for ROMs to try out.
Note: Be sure that if you are installing ROMs that require the Jelly Bean OTA update that you have taken that update.
There are two ways to do this: receive the update as intended (Over The Air) or use LGNPST (guide on using that under FAQ 3.a of this post) or autoprime's awesome tool, TeenyBin.
FAQs
How do I upgrade FreeGee? The easiest thing to do is simply install the new version of FreeGee the way you did the old one. It will work. Make sure you keep your original locked bootloader in a different, safe place though, just in case you ever want to revert to stock (if you try to return your phone, for example).
How do I disable that pesky OTA update notification? This comes courtesy of shawnchalfant and adfurgerson (visit ad's thread for more details): go into Titanium Backup and freeze the following programs: com.lge.lgfota.permission 4.0.4-91f513f88d AND com.lge.omadmclient 3.2.21
How can I re-lock and un-root my phone?
How to LGNPST to restore a factory image.
Obtain the following files: AutoLGNPST-tSilenzio.zip (available on IRC), and the firmware. Unzip AutoLGNPST-tSilenzio.zip and follow the instructions in "READ ME FIRST.txt" (mad props to tSilenzio for automating this process).
Here's the laborious/error prone/manual method for LGNPST-ing back to stock.
You need to obtain the following files: LGNPST-PhantomPhreak53.zip, LGNPST_ACG_2.2.3_Lab.zip, and the firmware. Follow the following steps (please note: I am less experienced with this process and find it much more tedious. Also, IMHO, I don't think the people you're returning the phone to will care if you leave some minor traces of your unlocking shenanigans. I think the process above this is more than sufficient and simpler). Credits go to Jhoopes517 for this process, he showed me how to do it in his thread.
(Install LG USB drivers)
Extract LGNPST_ACG_2.2.3_Lab.zip, run the installer. Open file explorer to C:\Program Files\LG Electronics\LGNPST and replace the current LGNPST_ACG.exe with the one in the extracted folder (if you are on a 64-bit version of windows, go to C:\Program Files (x86)\LG Electronics\LGNPST)
Extract LGNPST-PhantomPhreak53.zip and run LGNPST_GenericModels_Ver_5_0_12_0.exe and then run LGNPST_Components_Ver_5_0_20_0.exe
In file exlorer, navigate to C:\LG Electronics\LGNPST and copy over the "Models" folder from the extracted Phantom zip folder
Run cmd as administrator and execute the following
Code:
regsvr32 "C:\LG Electronics\LGNPST\Models\LGNPST_LS970.dll"
Extract LGE970AT-01-V20j-310-410-MAR-08-2013.zip and change the extension of the .tot file to .bin
Connect phone to computer, power off, and then power on, holding down the power button and both volume buttons
Run the newly replaced LGNPST_ACG.exe from step 2. Select the DLL from step 5 and the .bin from step 6.
Press Start
If LGNPST errors out at 85%, turn your phone off and hold the power button until the phone powers on, then release. DO NOT disconnect the cable before LGNPST is done doing its thing. Your phone may reboot. This is OK.
(If you are using Shelnutt's app, simply use the button in the app to re-lock and install the stock stuff).
Here's the laborious/error prone/manual method for re-locking the phone and installing the stock recovery/bootloader/kernel.
Remember the backups of the locked bootloader that you kept? You're going to need them. Obviously, you'll need USB Debugging enabled and LG USB drivers installed. Copy them to your phone's "Internal Storage" in a folder, in this example it's called "backups." Connect the phone to your computer via USB, open a command line (cmd) and type the following:
Code:
cd C:/some/folder/where/you/have/adb.exe/eg/your/freegee/download
adb shell
su
dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/recovery
dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/boot
dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/aboot
dd if=/sdcard/backups/aboot-att-backup.img of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/aboot
dd if=/sdcard/recovery-att-backup of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/recovery
dd if=/sdcard/boot-att-backup.img of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/boot
dd basically copies from the if= location and writes to the of= location. The first three dd steps write a bunch of zeros to the recovery, boot, and aboot partitons, the last three write the backups to aboot, recovery, and boot. If you want to know more, read all about dd here and/or Google. If you lost your backups, you can try writing mine.
Now you've restored the stock bootloader and recovery, but your phone is still rooted. To unroot it, open SuperSU, go to its settings, and tap "Full unroot." Do a factory reset (Settings->General->Backup & reset->Factory data reset) and you should be good to return the phone to AT&T (or whatever).
Be careful with these last two methods if you have removed any bloatware or installed a custom firmware, you may prefer to LGNPST back to stock (LGNPST is almost always a safe way to return to stock).
blenkows said:
Haha I wish I had seen this earlier. I had screenshots before and after so I could see exactly what was removed but I had just deleted them. From memory, it doesn't seem like too much was removed. All the AT&T apps are gone but it appears LG's apps are still here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is a list of apps I had shortly after factory reset on stock for people to compare with theirs. I have struck out the ones I was able to remove without my phone blowing up. Let me know if you safely removed one and I'll strike it out. Also let me know if I missed any or included an app which isn't part of stock. Thanks!
AAT
Adobe Flash Player 11.1
Adobe Reader
Amazon Kindle
Android keyboard
Android live wallpapers
Android system
Aspect ratio correction
AT&T address book
AT&T code scanner
AT&T family map
AT&T hot spots
AT&T locker
AT&T messages
AT&T navigator
AT&T ready2go
AT&T smart wi-fi
Bluetooth share
Browser
Bt/wifi test
Bubbles
Calculator
Calendar
Calendar storage
Calendar widget
Camera
Car home
Certificate installer
City ID
Clock
com.android.backupconfirm
com.android.providers.partnerbookmarks
com.android.providers.settings
com.android.sharedstoragebackup
com.lge.lgdrm.permission
com.lge.lgfota.permission
com.lge.lockscreen
com.lge.omadmclient
Contacts
Contacts storage
DeviceHelp
Download manager
Downloads
DRM protected content storage
DRM service
Email
Email widget
EmailServices
Face unlock
Facebook
Favorite contacts widget
File manager
File networking
FileShare
Finance
Gallery
GestureOverlayService
Gmail
Google account manager
Google backup transport
Google calendar sync
Google contacts sync
Google partner setup
Google play books
Google play magazines
Google play movies & tv
Google play music
Google play services
Google play store
Google search
Google services framework
Google text-to-speech engine
Google+
Home
Home selector
Home theme - Biz
Home theme - cozywall
Home theme - marshmallow
HTML viewer
Key chain
Lg keyboard
Lg tag+
Lg voicecommand speechpack
Lgapduservice
Lgatcmd service
Lgsmartcard service
Lgsystemserver
Live tv
Live wallpaper picker
Local search
Lock screen settings
Maps
Marionette
Market feedback agent
Media home
Media storage
Messaging
Multi-photo live wallpaper
Music
Music
Musicfx
My uploads
MyAT&T
Network location
News
NFC service
Nfsservicemanager
Note pad
Note pad widget
On-screen phone
Package access helper
Package installer
Phone
Phone/messaging storage
Photo frame
Playready cert test
Polaris office 4.0
Power control widget
Quickmemo
Search applications provider
Settings
Setup wizard
Shutdown monitor
Sim toolkit
Smartshare
Social+
Streaming player
System ui
Talk
Task manager
Today+ widget
Tom's diner
Twitter
User dictionary
Usermode
Vidclip
Video wiz
Videos
Voice command
Voice search
Voicemail
VPN client
Vpndialogs
Wap service
Weather
Widevine keybox test
Wiper app
Wise screen
World clock widget
YouTube
Yp mobile
I can't root. What do I do?
Double check that you have followed all the steps in this guide (USB drivers, correct settings, etc.) If your software version ends in "c," you need to LGNPST to the version that ends in "o" (see the section on LGNPST in this post).
Why shouldn't I run the Nexus 4 conversion?
See this post by thecubed. Don't be impatient, a legit, safe ROM is forthcoming here. Messing with partition tables is needlessly risky.
My shiny new firmware has no APNs and I don't get mobile data! What do I do?
Use the APN settings in this post. They have always worked for me. If they don't try setting the "APN" variable to "pta" instead of "Phone."
... (ask me more questions!)
I hope you found this useful. Obviously this is a work in progress. I am way open to suggestion, please leave a comment below! If you liked this post, hit the thanks button and/or rate this thread so that others know this guide is legit. Thanks!

Very nice, man. This is great for people who don't want to have to hop between threads for all the different information.
I recommend we sticky it.

this is definitely appreciated. i was looking for a guide when i first rooted and unlocked, just to read along with making sure i was doing it right. more just to double check my process than actually needing it.

This is the best root/ROM guide I've ever seen. Excellent job.
Sent from my LG Optimus G

anyone try this on E97110d
should it work?

cpus456 said:
anyone try this on E97110d
should it work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't so I can't recommend trying it.

Awesome work! someone please sticky

all worked great!

can you please also post a guide on how to lock back the device and unroot.
and also how to update to a new version of freegee if it comes out.
Please
?
Thank you.

karelson said:
can you please also post a guide on how to lock back the device and unroot.
and also how to update to a new version of freegee if it comes out.
Please
?
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both of those requests are covered in the OP. Specifically, look at FAQ #2...If you can't understand that, I can't help you.

Carrett can u do a guide for going back to stock? Flashing a stock Rom....got the files I need just have no clue what to do. .need to return my phone.thanx
Sent from my LG-E970 using xda premium

martyotaku said:
Carrett can u do a guide for going back to stock? Flashing a stock Rom....got the files I need just have no clue what to do. .need to return my phone.thanx
Sent from my LG-E970 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What files do you have exactly? The easiest way to do it, in my opinion, is to follow the steps in FAQ #2.

i have the stock rom(i deleted some bloat) and i went on thecubed's irc and got some dlls and and a lg program but no clue what to do

Is there a way to restore? I totally messed up. My phone won't turn on at all. Help would be appreciated thanks.

i need a step by step for LGNPST back to stock if possible please

martyotaku said:
i need a step by step for LGNPST back to stock if possible please
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have never LGNPST-d my way back to stock, nor do I plan on doing it. If you are already unlocked, my advice to you is to obtain APKs of any bloat you removed, reinstall them, and follow my method for relocking and unrooting. That being said, you may be able to find someone willing to walk you through LGNPST-ing in IRC. I will try to figure out how to do it and if I feel confident I'll write a how-to. If someone wants to supply me with a howto, I'd be happy to include it in the OP and credit them (assuming their how-to makes sense and I can easily follow it).
Honestly though, it seems like a pointless exercise when you have CWM and su.
Sorry I can't be more accommodating.

carrett said:
I have never LGNPST-d my way back to stock, nor do I plan on doing it. If you are already unlocked, my advice to you is to obtain APKs of any bloat you removed, reinstall them, and follow my method for relocking and unrooting. That being said, you may be able to find someone willing to walk you through LGNPST-ing in IRC. I will try to figure out how to do it and if I feel confident I'll write a how-to. If someone wants to supply me with a howto, I'd be happy to include it in the OP and credit them (assuming their how-to makes sense and I can easily follow it).
Honestly though, it seems like a pointless exercise when you have CWM and su.
Sorry I can't be more accommodating.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I kinda need LGNPST. Somewhere during rooting, my phone just wouldn't turn back on. It did that screen flicker thing and the buttons flicker, but it stayed there for about 10+ minutes. So i figured, i wanted to start fresh with factory settings again. When i try to run LGNPST, it goes to 67% then the phone leaves download mode and then LGNPST says it's been disconnected and that i should restart my phone and then it can continue. Problem is that the phone can't even boot up at all.
I even tried the unbrick guide from the other optimus g forum but i can't get ahold of the .KDZ file. I'm not even sure if that process can work on an AT&T optimus g. Spoke to people on IRC and said that it sounds like a hardware issue. If i can't get this thing to boot, i'm going back to BestBuy to exchange for another one.

aznracer62 said:
I kinda need LGNPST. Somewhere during rooting, my phone just wouldn't turn back on. It did that screen flicker thing and the buttons flicker, but it stayed there for about 10+ minutes. So i figured, i wanted to start fresh with factory settings again. When i try to run LGNPST, it goes to 67% then the phone leaves download mode and then LGNPST says it's been disconnected and that i should restart my phone and then it can continue. Problem is that the phone can't even boot up at all.
I even tried the unbrick guide from the other optimus g forum but i can't get ahold of the .KDZ file. I'm not even sure if that process can work on an AT&T optimus g. Spoke to people on IRC and said that it sounds like a hardware issue. If i can't get this thing to boot, i'm going back to BestBuy to exchange for another one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The folks in IRC know much more about lgnpst than I do. There's no secret that's being withheld, and unfortunately my best guess is that the lgnpst experts in IRC are right and it is a hardware issue. The good news is that you don't have to tell Best Buy the events leading up to your phone's demise and they probably won't be able to tell what they were either (we're talking about Best Buy employees here; most don't give two craps about their job).

Found a how to for a different lg phone here. Not certain that it will work for ours but it's worth a try. If it works for you, let me know and I'll add it the OP for others.

carrett said:
Found a how to for a different lg phone here. Not certain that it will work for ours but it's worth a try. If it works for you, let me know and I'll add it the OP for others.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried something similar to that. Basically that's just an older version of LGNPST but when you use it, it says verizon wireless on it, well the one i downloaded at least. And you're right, took it to best buy and they didn't ask about it. I have up to January 24 to exchange it again in case it happens again. If the guys on IRC say it's hardware after explaining exactly what i did, it's the hardware. Gotta admit, i'm new to LG. I came from a line of Samsungs. Usually if anything goes wrong id just reflash with Odin or Heimedall and everything's back to normal again. LGNPST does the same function? From what i've read it serves the same purpose.
Anyway, take 2 on this guide. Deleting everything LG from my computer and starting fresh. One thing that i did notice when rooting, cmd gave me an error saying i'm missing backup_restore.apk (or something of similar name).

Related

[HOW TO] ROOT HTC RUBY / AMAZE 4G

This is a very simple device to root.
However if you root this device it will likely void your warranty.
There is no current method of obtaining S-OFF, so don't ask!
Requirements:
PC
Phone
USB Cable
External SDCARD (optional but highly recommended)
Internet Connection
HTC Drivers
Battery with a charge of over 50%
Ability to read
Ability to follow directions
Then you must view the following video!
If you meet these requirements then proceed to post #2.
Step #2 - Unlocking your bootloader
Copied from this thread by Revolution
Go to HTCDev.com
Make a account , here then go to this link and follow all instruction's , but make sure you go to this link , it don't show us as a supported device but this work's for all device's me & crackeyes have tried this .
Go to this link after that : here , follow all the step's , below will be my version .
1) Remove and reinsert the battery.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
2) Press Volume Down and Power to start the device into Bootloader mode.
3) Use the Volume buttons to select up or down. Highlight Fastboot and press the Power button.
4) Connect the device to the computer via a usb cable
5) Make a folder in c:\ called Android & then input the file's from your android SDK their , such as
adb.exe
AdbWinApi.dll
fastboot.exe
6) Open up command prompt. ( Start > Run > Type CMD,). The window that appears is called Command Prompt.
7) Navigate to where you unzipped the ZIP file and go to the folder you just created (For Example: If you created the folder in C:\Android, then you would type in Command Prompt: cd c:\Android).
8) Type in Command Prompt: fastboot oem get_identifier_token.
9) You will see a long block of text. Copy and paste this text into the the token field below (in the command prompt: Right Click > Mark > highlight the block of text > Right click to copy).
10) Paste this string of text into the token field and hit Submit in order to receive your unlock code binary file. You will receive this information in your email.
Example:
11) On the bottom of http://www.htcdev.com/bootloader/unlock-instructions/page-3 , please input your result's & if it say's failed keep on trying & it will go threw .
Straight from HTCDev.com , & NOTE : THIS WILL VOID YOUR WARRENTY
You are about to start the process of unlocking your device. Unlocking your device allows you to install custom Operating Systems (“OS”) onto your device. Custom OS’s are not tested as thoroughly as your original OS, and unlocking your device may void all or parts of your warranty. HTC disclaims any and all liability for proper functioning of your device after the bootloader has been unlocked and for data lost in the unlocking process. To prevent unauthorized access to your data, unlocking the bootloader will delete all personal data from your device including applications, text messages and personalized settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once you have unlocked your bootloader you can make changes to your /system partition.
The majority of you will probably never need to do this. This is because most developers use flashable zip files that will do everything for you. These files are flashed from Recovery Mode.
Let's move on to step #3
Step #3 - Installing Custom Recovery
Now that you have unlocked your bootloader you can now obtain root.
The easiest way to do this would be by installing a custom recovery.
I created a simple bat script that should update your recovery for you.
Boot up your phone and connect it to your computer by usb cable.
Go to Settings --> Applications --> Development.
Check USB debugging.
Unzip the attached file and run the Flash.bat file as Administrator.
Your phone should reboot and go to a white screen.
It should update the recovery for you automatically and reboot.
Now you should have yourself a custom recovery.
If by chance you decide that you would like to revert to the custom recovery then use the same technique with the STOCK_RECOVERY_FLASHER.zip file.
If a .bat script isn't your thing then try this thread: [TOOL] HTC Amaze 4G All-In-One Toolkit by Hasoon2000
Step #4 - ROOTING!
Now that you have your custom recovery installed it's time to flash root onto your phone.
Download a custom rom from the Development section or the HTC Amaze ROM Bible and store the zip onto your external sdcard.
If you do not want a custom rom but just want root simply download the attached Superuser-3.0.7-efghi-signed.zip file.
If you do not have an external sdcard then store it onto your internal sdcard.
The custom recovery from step #3 will default to an external sdcard if it's detected.
If the custom recovery from step #3 does not detect an external sdcard then it should default to your internal.
Now there are a couple different ways to reboot to recovery. The best way is to open the command prompt up and navigate to either directories from posts 1 or 2 that contains the adb.exe file.
For example this is from post #2.
If you stored it to your desktop directory then it would be something like:
C:\Users\Binary100100\Desktop\RecoveryInstallerForNoobs
so you may have to enter:
cd Desktop\RecoveryInstallerForNoobs
Now enter "dir" into the command prompt and press Enter and you should see something like:
c:\Users\Binary100100\Desktop\RecoveryInstallerForNoobs>dir
Volume in drive C has no label.
Volume Serial Number is 4850-996B
Directory of c:\Users\Binary100100\Desktop\RecoveryInstallerForNoobs
01/03/2012 05:04 PM <DIR> .
01/03/2012 05:04 PM <DIR> ..
11/08/2011 02:50 PM 366,661 adb
11/08/2011 02:50 PM 410,942 adb.exe
11/08/2011 02:50 PM 96,256 AdbWinApi.dll
11/08/2011 02:50 PM 60,928 AdbWinUsbApi.dll
11/08/2011 02:50 PM 127,435 fastboot
11/08/2011 02:50 PM 356,009 fastboot.exe
12/27/2011 12:37 AM 128 Flash.bat
12/27/2011 12:32 AM 5,187,584 recovery-cwm-ruby-5.0.2.7.img
8 File(s) 6,605,943 bytes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as you see adb, adb.exe, adbWinApi.dl and AdbWinUsbApi.dll you should be good to go.
Now without leaving the command prompt enter:
adb reboot recovery
Your phone should reboot and you should be looking at your recovery.
If for whatever reason you couldn't get access to recovery then go back to bootloader mode.
Remove the battery and put it back in. This is to make sure the device is completely powered off. Hold the Volume Down button while pressing power to get back to hboot mode. Just like step #1. Now if you don't see Recovery in the list then select BOOTLOADER. You should now see RECOVERY. Select that and your phone should reboot to recovery from there. Now that I know you're in recovery... let's move on.
From here you can flash your custom rom or root files.
Use the volume rocker buttons to move the highlight up and down the menu and highlight "Install zip from sdcard" then press the power button to select.
Now "choose zip from sdcard" then press power button again.
Highlight the downloaded custom rom or the Superuser-3.0.7-efghi-signed.zipfile and press power again. From here I think you have the idea.
Select the appropriate zip file and press the power button to install.
Now you can go back and then select "reboot system now" and let your device boot up.
Check the app drawer and make sure you have an app called SuperUser. If you have this app then you now have root.
If you followed the instructions like you were supposed to you should be fully rooted and unlocked the full potential of your HTC Amaze 4G phone.
Feel free to post your questions and comments here in this thread.
PLEASE! don't send me private messages asking for help. I just spent two hours making this as simple as I could to save me from all of the help requests. If you have problems then post in this thread and make sure to reference the step that you're having issues with.
Example:
Problem with Step #1 I can't follow directions. Someone do it for me. I'll be willing to pay $10,000,000 to have root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then I'm sure you will get plenty of help.
Remember to hit the thanks button to show your appreciation.
Thanks was wondering where the old sticky thread went!!! hopefully less questions with this one...It's much more clear.
seansk said:
Thanks was wondering where the old sticky thread went!!! hopefully less questions with this one...It's much more clear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which is exactly why I made it. Unfortunately the members that just got the device couldn't use the old PH85IMG.zip method because of the Main Version Older error and they couldn't use the tool that xboarder56 made because I had to remove it per request. I didn't want to make a tool that would do everything because then they would never learn for themselves. So I feel that this is a healthy balance.
Binary100100 said:
Which is exactly why I made it. Unfortunately the members that just got the device couldn't use the old PH85IMG.zip method because of the Main Version Older error and they couldn't use the tool that xboarder56 made because I had to remove it per request. I didn't want to make a tool that would do everything because then they would never learn for themselves. So I feel that this is a healthy balance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good Idea I am having lots of flashing problems since 1.3 too, I didn't want to unlock it and I OTA'd...but then couldn't stand the bloatware and wanted more...now I'm having all kinds of problems, including kernel. so now If you could help me with the kernel, I posted question in general section, I'm kind of a semi-noob with kernels!!!!! lol
seansk said:
good Idea I am having lots of flashing problems since 1.3 too, I didn't want to unlock it and I OTA'd...but then couldn't stand the bloatware and wanted more...now I'm having all kinds of problems, including kernel. so now If you could help me with the kernel, I posted question in general section, I'm kind of a semi-noob with kernels!!!!! lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Give me the link to your question and I'll do what I can to help.
Do you have access to fastboot and an unlocked bootloader?
Binary100100 said:
Give me the link to your question and I'll do what I can to help.
Do you have access to fastboot and an unlocked bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I'm familiar with all that stuff..unlocked and can get into fastboot. custom recovery is intact as well. here's the link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1424757 post 8 and this almost the same http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1328141&page=10 post 92....thanks you much in advance
Great job on this Binary!
IF PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS...you can always message me as well. BUT MAKE SURE TO READ AND FOLLOW DIRECTIONS FIRST...I'm am very familiar with all these procedures as well, just to take a load of binary and xboarder's backs...
seansk said:
IF PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS...you can always message me as well. BUT MAKE SURE TO READ AND FOLLOW DIRECTIONS FIRST...I'm am very familiar with all these procedures as well, just to take a load of binary and xboarder's backs...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much! I don't have time to be 24/7 tech support.
jimczyz said:
Great job on this Binary!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. I wish this thread had been here when I rooted. It would have saved my hunting through 3 or 4 threads and trying to piece things together myself. Of course, I probably learned more that way.
marleyfan61 said:
Agreed. I wish this thread had been here when I rooted. It would have saved my hunting through 3 or 4 threads and trying to piece things together myself. Of course, I probably learned more that way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I always encourage people to never stop learning.
When I see a script I like to open it up and see what's inside.
Knowing how things work is a great way to learn for yourself.
Before you know it, you'll be making guides like this! At the very least you'll be the A instead of the Q if you know what I mean.
Binary100100 said:
I always encourage people to never stop learning.
When I see a script I like to open it up and see what's inside.
Knowing how things work is a great way to learn for yourself.
Before you know it, you'll be making guides like this! At the very least you'll be the A instead of the Q if you know what I mean.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We both have the same curiosoty Binary...I alway open random files and probably break things before I fix them lol...my first computer was a packard bell 486 dx2 66 in 1993 I think. I learned everything I know by myself...including a lot of dos which we still use today for android . good old windows 3.1
Thanks a million!
I had lost my root to the most recent OTA update from t-mo, obviously I'm a noob when it comes to root only, everything else electronic wise I got the hang of. I'm not the type of person that likes things handed to me I prefer given the basic and expanding my knowledge from there, knowledge is a beautiful thing! I'm back rooted and again thanks for this post!
andyb0308 said:
I had lost my root to the most recent OTA update from t-mo, obviously I'm a noob when it comes to root only, everything else electronic wise I got the hang of. I'm not the type of person that likes things handed to me I prefer given the basic and expanding my knowledge from there, knowledge is a beautiful thing! I'm back rooted and again thanks for this post!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm glad that you found it helpful.
May be a Noob ? but I'm wondering since I use my phones hotspot to get internet on my laptop, if I can do this without the sim card in the Amaze, while using my other phones hotspot? I've searched and found no mention of this, thanks for the great guide.
Marquis63 said:
May be a Noob ? but I'm wondering since I use my phones hotspot to get internet on my laptop, if I can do this without the sim card in the Amaze, while using my other phones hotspot? I've searched and found no mention of this, thanks for the great guide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as you have a PC connected to download the required files.
Sent from my HTC Amaze 4G using xda premium

[HOW TO] beaups Moonshine S-OFF exploit for linux/android noobs

How to for n00bs:
Beaups Moonshine S-OFF for the Droid DNA
(Note: This guide will assume that you are complete noob with android and linux, BUT that you are not too dense to google basic things and infer basic differences between PC setups)
YOU WILL NEED:
1 Laptop or Desktop with internet access
1 32bit Linux (Ubuntu or Mint preferred, Mint to be used in this guide) liveUSB or liveCD (liveCD preferred, and what will be covered in this guide)
1 Stock Droid DNA with the 2.06 firmware update (2.04 is reported to work, but more success seems to be had with the updated firmware) WITH AT LEAST 80% BATTERY LIFE
1 Factory HTC/Droid micro-usb (Or any cable you know will work with ADB)
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Prepping your computer:
1: Burn a liveCD of your linux distro of choice. Mint is my choice due to having great out of the box compatibility with hardware.
2: Insert liveCD into your PC, turn it on (or reboot), and enter boot menu (typically esc, f8, or f12 pressed during start up) and select “Boot from CD Drive”.
3: Allow liveCD to boot, it may take some time depending on the speed of your hardware. This is good time to prepare your phone for shining.
Prepping your phone:
1: Update to the 2.06 firmware update, if you have not already. If you cannot OTA, you can find guides to flash said firmware update elsewhere on XDA
a: If you are unsure what firmware you are on, go to “Settings”, “About”, and “Software Information” and it will have your firmware listed.
2: Disable any sort of screen lock. Image lock, facelock, pin lock, doesn't matter, it MUST BE DISABLED FOR THIS TO WORK
3: Disable “Fastboot”. “Settings”, “Battery”, UNCHECK “Fastboot”
4: Enable USB Debugging. “Settings”, “Developer Options”, “USB Debugging”
5: Boot into fastboot (turn off phone, reboot holding down POWER button and VOLUME DOWN button simultaneously). Select “Factory reset”. Allow phone to reset and reboot. Go back into settings, repeat sets 2 and 3 if necessary.
Downloading, unpacking, and excecuting moonshine.
1: On your live linux session, that is connected to the internet, go to www.moonshine.io
2: READ EVERYTHING
3: READ EVERYTHING AGAIN
4: Download the .tgz file relevant to your device (for most of us this will be the Verizon DNA file “moonshine_dlx_2.06.605.1.tgz”
5: Go to the folder your .tgz was just downloaded to. This should be your “downloads directory”
6: Right click anywhere in your download directory and select “Open in Terminal”
7: Extract the moonshine .tgz by typing out the following command into terminal “tar -zxf moonshine_<device>_<version>.tgz” For the Verizon DNA this will be “tar -zxf moonshine_dlx_2.06.605.1.tgz”
Your download directory should look like this when done
(Unfortunately, after this, the iPhone I was using to take pictures died, so there are no more pictures after this, but everything is very straightforward)
At this time plug your phone (which has been factory reset, rebooted, and all things listed in the “phone prep section” have been double checked) into your PC via your HTC/Android USB cable.
8: Execute the “Distiller” by typing the following command into terminal “sudo ./distiller”
9: Agree to the onscreen prompts, sit back, relax, DO NOT F**K WITH YOUR PHONE, and let the shine do its magic. This should take five to fifteen minutes and your phone will reboot several times.
10: Enjoy S-OFF and root.
ALL CREDIT GOES TO BEAUPS AND THE MOONSHINE DEV TEAM, this is simply a shoddy step by step guide by a n00b for n00bs to (hopefully) get more comfortable with the idea. This may be reproduced, altered, or edited in anyway as long as credit is given to me (DWC2134) for the original text and pictures and to the DEVS who brought us this awesome utility. In fact, PLEASE edit, improve, and revise this as you see fit for use by new android and linux users. Any changes suggested in this thread will be taken into account and incorporated into the OP.
Toubleshooting:
1: If you are experiencing the "temproot failed" problem, first try a hard reboot, then a factory reset + hard reboot if the reboot alone does not solve the problem.
2: There is some chatter of questionable validity that VZW is trying to push an update to stop SOFF. If you are having trouble, turn off your radios and/or put your phone in airplane mode while attempting moonshine. While most, myself included, doubt the validity of this claim it is better safe then sorry.
Beaups original moonshine thread
Moderators, if this is in the wrong section, or out of line, etc etc, please move, edit, delete, or do as needed.
Does it have to be the 32 bit version? If so I just have to redo my live usb.
sent from my droid DNA with xda premium
DaPitt84 said:
Does it have to be the 32 bit version? If so I just have to redo my live usb.
sent from my droid DNA with xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes or the exploit will give an error saying there aren't enough 32 bit libraries. I tried on a 64 bit and got that error. I re did my live cd to use 32 bit ran the exploit and it worked flawlessly.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda premium
Nice howto I did the s-off yesterday worked great. I'm on windows 7 64 bit and installed 32 bit mint.
For people doing this like op said install and use 32 bit just easier and if you're on a 64 bit system doesn't matter 32 bit installs fine.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda premium
Very nice "How To' for us Windows PC peeps dwc2134...thank you.
I have a couple of questions if anyone can answer:
1) I haven't seen any other procedure where "Factory Reset" is called upon. Is there a specific reason?
2) I have a burned image of "Ubuntu-13.04-desktop-i386.iso" on USB Stick that runs v/smoothly on my laptop w/Vista Ultimate, but I can't seem to get to terminal screen. I do however see all of the Moonshine flies in download folder when in Ubuntu and "moonshine_dlx_2.06.605.1.tgz"
Please forgive the noobish Q's
Thx in advance
First of all, thank you dwc2134 for providing this guide! I am very new to this scene (Android rooting) and this guide helps out TREMENDOUSLY since I have no knowledge about terminal/command prompts.
However, after re-reading this guide and the instructions at moonshine.io, I have some questions in my head that are preventing me from going further (If anyone here can answer any of my questions, it would be most appreciated!)
1. At the Instructions page on moonshine.io, Step 8 says "Use the matchingStockRUU..", I have no idea what this, is this something I should worry about? I have not modified my Droid DNA in anyway whatsoever ever since I got the device. I only did the 2 OTA updates (2.04 and 2.06) and that's it.
2. In this guide (dwc2134's) on Step 8 where it says to execute the "Distiller", do I type it into the same terminal window I extracted the Moonshine.tgz file?
3. Once the whole process finishes, and I go back to the fastboot screen to see the glorious text that reads: "S-Off", does this mean my phone is rooted and I can install apps like SetCPU off the bat? Or do I have to flash a custom ROM and if so, can anyone recommend a "tried-and-true" ROM?
Once again, if anyone can answer my queries, it would be very helpful. Thank you in advance!
dfa7 said:
Very nice "How To' for us Windows PC peeps dwc2134...thank you.
I have a couple of questions if anyone can answer:
1) I haven't seen any other procedure where "Factory Reset" is called upon. Is there a specific reason?
2) I have a burned image of "Ubuntu-13.04-desktop-i386.iso" on USB Stick that runs v/smoothly on my laptop w/Vista Ultimate, but I can't seem to get to terminal screen. I do however see all of the Moonshine flies in download folder when in Ubuntu and "moonshine_dlx_2.06.605.1.tgz"
Please forgive the noobish Q's
Thx in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, fingered it out. This may just be of some help to others here. ubuntu-13.04-desktop-i386.iso wouldn't get into "terminal" BUT, linuxmint-15-cinnamon-dvd-32bit.iso does.
Does anyone know if it absolutely necessary to "Factory Reset" DNA with this Mooshine S-OFF method?
dfa7 said:
Very nice "How To' for us Windows PC peeps dwc2134...thank you.
I have a couple of questions if anyone can answer:
1) I haven't seen any other procedure where "Factory Reset" is called upon. Is there a specific reason?
2) I have a burned image of "Ubuntu-13.04-desktop-i386.iso" on USB Stick that runs v/smoothly on my laptop w/Vista Ultimate, but I can't seem to get to terminal screen. I do however see all of the Moonshine flies in download folder when in Ubuntu and "moonshine_dlx_2.06.605.1.tgz"
Please forgive the noobish Q's
Thx in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1: While not ENTIRELY necessary for a successful moonshining, performing the factory reset and hard reboot seems to solve the "temproot failed" problem several users (myself included) have expierenced.
2: Mint is my go to, so it may be slightly different in ubuntu. You can also open terminal by pressing ctrl-alt-T or by going to your applications menu (or the search in the dash) and searching for "Terminal" and then inputting "cd ~/downloads". This will, for lack of better words, open your download directory in terminal so that the commands you input specifically look for, and effect, the files there. You may have to alter the "~/downloads" portion slightly to get you to the correct directory, but looking at the filepath on your computer it should be pretty obvious.
AndroM31 said:
First of all, thank you dwc2134 for providing this guide! I am very new to this scene (Android rooting) and this guide helps out TREMENDOUSLY since I have no knowledge about terminal/command prompts.
However, after re-reading this guide and the instructions at moonshine.io, I have some questions in my head that are preventing me from going further (If anyone here can answer any of my questions, it would be most appreciated!)
1. At the Instructions page on moonshine.io, Step 8 says "Use the matchingStockRUU..", I have no idea what this, is this something I should worry about? I have not modified my Droid DNA in anyway whatsoever ever since I got the device. I only did the 2 OTA updates (2.04 and 2.06) and that's it.
2. In this guide (dwc2134's) on Step 8 where it says to execute the "Distiller", do I type it into the same terminal window I extracted the Moonshine.tgz file?
3. Once the whole process finishes, and I go back to the fastboot screen to see the glorious text that reads: "S-Off", does this mean my phone is rooted and I can install apps like SetCPU off the bat? Or do I have to flash a custom ROM and if so, can anyone recommend a "tried-and-true" ROM?
Once again, if anyone can answer my queries, it would be very helpful. Thank you in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1: If you have not modified your phone in anyway, and have received the OTAs, then that is irrelevant to you.
2: Yes. Or in another terminal window opened in your "downloads" directory, though opening a second window seems kind of pointless.
3: Moonshine installs superuser to your device, so YES YOU CAN install custom apps like SetCPU right off the bat. I would recommend first installing a custom recovery (I am using CWMs new touch version) and making a nandroid backup before doing anything else, personally. I would also highly recommend installing a custom rom instead of putting in too much time with the stock sense rom. There are so many fantastic roms out for this phone, it would almost be a waste not to. A lot of folks swear by the ViperROM. I'm currently using it and love it.
dwc2134 said:
1: While not ENTIRELY necessary for a successful moonshining, performing the factory reset and hard reboot seems to solve the "temproot failed" problem several users (myself included) have expierenced.
2: Mint is my go to, so it may be slightly different in ubuntu. You can also open terminal by pressing ctrl-alt-T or by going to your applications menu (or the search in the dash) and searching for "Terminal" and then inputting "cd ~/downloads". This will, for lack of better words, open your download directory in terminal so that the commands you input specifically look for, and effect, the files there. You may have to alter the "~/downloads" portion slightly to get you to the correct directory, but looking at the filepath on your computer it should be pretty obvious
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for clarrification. I decided to Mint and all is perfect! Ubuntu was a challenge considering I'm not an Apple guy and Linux is greek to me. As for the "Factory Reset", I'll gamble only 'cause I'm configured to my liking and not in mood yet to spend a day getting everything back. Thx again!
All's well that ends well. If you end up having the temp root problem, try a hard reboot first and then a factory reset.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda app-developers app
dwc2134 said:
1: If you have not modified your phone in anyway, and have received the OTAs, then that is irrelevant to you.
2: Yes. Or in another terminal window opened in your "downloads" directory, though opening a second window seems kind of pointless.
3: Moonshine installs superuser to your device, so YES YOU CAN install custom apps like SetCPU right off the bat. I would recommend first installing a custom recovery (I am using CWMs new touch version) and making a nandroid backup before doing anything else, personally. I would also highly recommend installing a custom rom instead of putting in too much time with the stock sense rom. There are so many fantastic roms out for this phone, it would almost be a waste not to. A lot of folks swear by the ViperROM. I'm currently using it and love it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much for clearing away my doubts! Once I get the "S-Off" message, I'll look into your suggestions mentioned here.
dwc2134 said:
All's well that ends well. If you end up having the temp root problem, try a hard reboot first and then a factory reset.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dwc2134 - thanks for your help, patience and interset with some of us and this project! It does seem easier than revone.
Where do I find the Linux file to put on usb? I don't have any blank cd's either...will it work from usb stick?
HellRayzer said:
Where do I find the Linux file to put on usb? I don't have any blank cd's either...will it work from usb stick?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can find the .iso image for any distro you want online. I prefer Linux Mint, though Ubuntu is another crowd favorite. You can make a bootable USB, but I find it easier to make and use liveCD/DVDs. A pack of burnable DVDs is $2.89 at CVS. Google is your friend for the rest of this, it is all VERY self explanatory and most distro sites put step by step instructions right on their website.
http://www.linuxmint.com/download.php
http://www.linuxmint.com/documentation/user-guide/english_15.0.pdf
Error When Trying To Download - 'This file reached max downloads limit"
Followed the guide...booted from USB Ubuntu. No problems. Connected to moonshine.io, clicked next, next, but when I selected the DNA version, I get the error:
"This file reached max downloads limit"
...and no download.
Any ideas? I see another person has posted this in the developers section. Is there a link problem?
Thanks.
dwc2134 said:
You can find the .iso image for any distro you want online. I prefer Linux Mint, though Ubuntu is another crowd favorite. You can make a bootable USB, but I find it easier to make and use liveCD/DVDs. A pack of burnable DVDs is $2.89 at CVS. Google is your friend for the rest of this, it is all VERY self explanatory and most distro sites put step by step instructions right on their website.
http://www.linuxmint.com/download.php
http://www.linuxmint.com/documentation/user-guide/english_15.0.pdf
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is spot on. I did my first live cd related to rescuing crucial data on a government computer with a corrupt OS a few weeks ago. I googled "How to make a bootable live cd USB drive" and literally in five minutes I was booted into my Ubuntu distro.
One thing I did learn is with Ubuntu there's a lot of alternative distros on their main site with all the links. After not having the option to boot without making any changes I went to my google-found guide again and realized only ubuntu distros with "desktop" in the filename would give me the live boot option I needed for the task at hand.
One of those small details I overlooked, that was solved by a quick recheck with google.
EXCELLENT GUIDE, I'm really impressed.
Max download limit reached.
I am having the same issue it says that the maxium download limit has been reached.:crying:
I can't donate if I can't download!
FUBAR'd
UntamedDarkness said:
I am having the same issue it says that the maxium download limit has been reached.:crying:
I can't donate if I can't download!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Link looks to be FUBAR'd. Maybe Verizon got pizzzed and did a bit of hacking themselves...
Several people now reporting the issues in multiple threads. I just rechecked...same error.
Out of curiosity, are you using Verizon Mobile Hotspot on your phone to connect to the internet via computer? I am.
CharliesTheMan said:
This is spot on. I did my first live cd related to rescuing crucial data on a government computer with a corrupt OS a few weeks ago. I googled "How to make a bootable live cd USB drive" and literally in five minutes I was booted into my Ubuntu distro.
One thing I did learn is with Ubuntu there's a lot of alternative distros on their main site with all the links. After not having the option to boot without making any changes I went to my google-found guide again and realized only ubuntu distros with "desktop" in the filename would give me the live boot option I needed for the task at hand.
One of those small details I overlooked, that was solved by a quick recheck with google.
EXCELLENT GUIDE, I'm really impressed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, google has most any answer you could ever need if you search enough. The only reason I promote liveCDs over liveUSBs is that I think they are a touch easier to make and use. For some reason I have always had a hard time getting liveUSBs to work.
Thank you! I'm really glad it seems to have helped some folks out!
UntamedDarkness said:
I am having the same issue it says that the maxium download limit has been reached.:crying:
I can't donate if I can't download!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ejohanss said:
Link looks to be FUBAR'd. Maybe Verizon got pizzzed and did a bit of hacking themselves...
Several people now reporting the issues in multiple threads. I just rechecked...same error.
Out of curiosity, are you using Verizon Mobile Hotspot on your phone to connect to the internet via computer? I am.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt it is Verizon, most likely a bandwidth issue or hosting service issue. Seems to be common with everyone trying to download moonshine right now. Sounds like there is trouble with the download limit counter. I knew I should have kept a backup copy of the .tgz
No, when I tether I use one of the free solutions. I got bumped off of unlimited, so I tend to use more wifi then phone data. You NEED an internet connection that is not reliant on your phone for this to work. Moonshine actively connects to the internet during the ./distiller program.
dwc2134 said:
Yep, google has most any answer you could ever need if you search enough. The only reason I promote liveCDs over liveUSBs is that I think they are a touch easier to make and use. For some reason I have always had a hard time getting liveUSBs to work.
Thank you! I'm really glad it seems to have helped some folks out!
I doubt it is Verizon, most likely a bandwidth issue or hosting service issue. Seems to be common with everyone trying to download moonshine right now. Hopefully beaups will be able to set up some new downloads or someone else will be willing to host the files for him. I knew I should have kept a backup copy of the .tgz
No, when I tether I use one of the free solutions. I got bumped off of unlimited, so I tend to use more wifi then phone data. You NEED an internet connection that is not reliant on your phone for this to work. Moonshine actively connects to the internet during the ./distiller program.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just checked it's a host download limit it's ABSOLUTELY not related to verizon.

[Q] Another Brick Almost Hits The Wall

Howdy folks,
Yesterday, I was the proud owner of a sleek little TCT.Alcatel OneTouch A554C, formally know as a Virgin Mobile Venture running Android version 2.3.5.
It was successfully and surprisingly easy to root by utilizing 2 cool little apps, Ministro and Poot-Debug.
After root, I subsequently downloaded some root tools (eg., Titanium Backup Pro, Superuser Elite, System App Uninstaller).
That was last week.
Yesterday, I got a bit cocky. I needed to clear up some internal memory so I used "System App Uninstaller" to uninstall a few apps. If I remember correctly, the apps were as follows: Google Maps, Google Maps Street View, Calculator, Digital Clock, Setup Wizard, Android Live Wallpaper, Live Wallpaper Picker, Magic Smoke Wallpaper, Music Visualization Wallpaper, and the TouchPal Keyboard French and Spanish Language Packs.
So far so good, right? However, I believe I may have snarfed-up when I uninstalled the Setup Wizard. But I'll get to that in a minute.
Now with Titanium Backup, I moved some apps to the sd card. Included was the stock launcher, Smart Launcher Pro, SPB Shell, AVG Anti-Virus, and Superuser Elite. Then I rebooted through Titanium Backup and I haven't viewed any pornographic material since!
After reboot, the phone got stuck on the final boot animation frame. I panicked, pulled the battery, booted into recovery then rebooted a 2nd time.
This time it booted to the pull-down lock screen. I unlocked and seen:
"Sorry! The application com.android.setup wizard has stopped unexpectedly. Please try again." Along with a "Force Close" option. I forced closed and the screen went black with the exception of the status bar. The phone is still on but otherwise...nada.
When I press the power button, same thing happens: pull-down lock screen, screen goes black. Or sometimes, it will turn on and boot loop.
Major panic time!!! I booted into recovery again and performed a factory reset to no avail.
Another clue to note: I can connect & access the sd card via usb to desktop.
Also, I did have the good sense to backup all apps, system and user, through ES File Explorer and stored them both on sd card and in the cloud via Yandex Disk prior to this bricking fiasco. Now, what do I do with them? I now realize it was possibly a mistake moving all 3 launchers to the sd card. How do I get the stock launcher back to the phone?
Or, should I:
1- Attempt a base rom reinstall or
2- Attempt a custom rom install or
3- Use it solely as a time piece/mass storage device or
4- Throw it very hard and very ******* far away from me!?
I realize this is an obscure little cheap phone but it's the only one I have. Any valid feedback would be greatly appreciated.
You can go to the Play Store on any browser and choose a launcher to install. Or if you have USB Debugging on, you can side load an launcher apk. Or if you install a custom recovery, you can install another rom or sideload an apk there. Or you can flash the original firmware via SP Flash Tool.
Lots of options and none of them need to be throwing it against the wall.
es0tericcha0s said:
You can go to the Play Store on any browser and choose a launcher to install. Or if you have USB Debugging on, you can side load an launcher apk. Or if you install a custom recovery, you can install another rom or sideload an apk there. Or you can flash the original firmware via SP Flash Tool.
Lots of options and none of them need to be throwing it against the wall.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm...Ok, thanks. Dig your username, by the way.
First thing is, install from play store would be possible if I had data service or if I was able to enable wi-fi. I only have calling & texting service on this phone and as for wi-fi, I can't enable it due to the problem of not being able to access the settings menu. All I have when it does boot, and it only fully boots when it is connected to a PC, is the pull-down lockscreen displaying time, date, status bar and the original wallpaper. Pull it down and the screen goes black with status bar still displayed along with time & battery level.
Secondly, USB debugging was enabled prior to all of this but I panicked & performed a factory reset. Don't think it's still on.
And lastly, is installing either a custom recovery, (which, to be frank, I'm just not that savvy) another rom or flashing original firmware even possible without a PC? Because I only have access to a PC without administrative privileges so therefore...no installing exe's without a password. Maybe this program lab will allow me, quite possibly not.
Hell, would I even still have root after a reset/data wipe?
Thanks, anyway, Esoteric Chaos
Off subject: The Joker was an Agent of Chaos. Loved Heath Ledger as The Joker.
Silver Rivers said:
Hmmm...Ok, thanks. Dig your username, by the way.
First thing is, install from play store would be possible if I had data service or if I was able to enable wi-fi. I only have calling & texting service on this phone and as for wi-fi, I can't enable it due to the problem of not being able to access the settings menu. All I have when it does boot, and it only fully boots when it is connected to a PC, is the pull-down lockscreen displaying time, date, status bar and the original wallpaper. Pull it down and the screen goes black with status bar still displayed along with time & battery level.
Secondly, USB debugging was enabled prior to all of this but I panicked & performed a factory reset. Don't think it's still on.
And lastly, is installing either a custom recovery, (which, to be frank, I'm just not that savvy) another rom or flashing original firmware even possible without a PC? Because I only have access to a PC without administrative privileges so therefore...no installing exe's without a password. Maybe this program lab will allow me, quite possibly not.
Hell, would I even still have root after a reset/data wipe?
Thanks, anyway, Esoteric Chaos
Off subject: The Joker was an Agent of Chaos. Loved Heath Ledger as The Joker.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can go to ANY browser - even on the PC and log into your account and hit Install and it will send the command to your phone to install it. Pretty nifty. But you did say you factory reset, so that isn't actually going to work. Sorry.
The rest of the stuff would require a PC, though I don't think admin rights are needed, so there's that...
If you don't have your phone logged into Google or USB Debugging enabled, you're kind of stuck without a PC.
es0tericcha0s said:
You can go to ANY browser - even on the PC and log into your account and hit Install and it will send the command to your phone to install it. Pretty nifty. But you did say you factory reset, so that isn't actually going to work. Sorry.
The rest of the stuff would require a PC, though I don't think admin rights are needed, so there's that...
If you don't have your phone logged into Google or USB Debugging enabled, you're kind of stuck without a PC.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, on these PCs it certainly does. I thought I was on track yesterday and tried to install a copy of Odin that I found. Can't install without a frigging admin pass.
Someone else just suggested I try a stock rom flash. Might as well, right? Happen to know where I could find a good reliable copy? That also happens to be free?
Not sure why you were trying to use Odin for a non Samsung phone...?
The stock rom flash would only be possible via PC or if you had a custom recovery installed.
Here's what you would need to do for the Virgin Mobile Venture:
Download CWM: http://www.sendspace.com/file/4gt04i
Download adb/fastboot: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790
Download rom: http://goo.im/devs/LeslieAnn/Venture/Stock_Venture.zip - Put on SD card.
Drivers: http://pdanet.co/bin/PdaNetA4150.exe (this program is for USB tethering and installs the adb drivers for your phone as well as many others)
The CWM img will need to be in the folder you unzipped for adb/fastboot. You'll need to boot to fastboot mode by powering on with while holding Volume Up.
Open a terminal prompt and change directories to your adb/fastboot folder. Then run this command:
fastboot flash recovery nameofrecovery.img - fill in the nameofrecovery with whatever the CWM file name is.
(if this doesn't work - make sure that your PC is reading the phone correctly by using the command: fastboot devices . If you don't get anything back, make sure you check the Device Manager for errors. If you have them, try reinstalling the drivers and rebooting the PC)
Then pop the battery out and then reboot to recovery via powering on while holding volume down. Once there, you should be able to do a factory reset and then install the stock rom zip. The volume keys should scroll through selections and the Enter key for accept, or Power if that doesn't work. Not really sure about this particular phone.)
Actually, you might just be able to use adb to install a launcher apk once you have CWM installed. Might be a little easier.
launcher apk must be in adb folder then while in CWM:
adb install nameoflauncher.apk
Note: You can rename zips and apks to be easier to type the commands.
es0tericcha0s said:
Not sure why you were trying to use Odin for a non Samsung phone...?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, me either. I was all over the place yesterday grasping at anything. So Odin is only for Samsungs, huh? Guess I can delete the exe file from my sd.
Right then. I'm about to proceed with your advice. Cross your fingers and toes.
Thanks mate!
The CWM img will need to be in the folder you unzipped for adb/fastboot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
and
launcher apk must be in adb folder then while in CWM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait, what? Please excuse my ignorance, but am I missing something. ADB didn't come in a zip. It's an installer. I think you may have to dumb this down a bit more, mate.
Silver Rivers said:
and
Wait, what? Please excuse my ignorance, but am I missing something. ADB didn't come in a zip. It's an installer. I think you may have to dumb this down a bit more, mate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I meant in the folder that it extracts the files too.
es0tericcha0s said:
Sorry, I meant in the folder that it extracts the files too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, got it.
Silver Rivers said:
Right, got it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can't run the exe file, then let me know, and I'll just upload a zip / folder with the necessary files. You do not need admin access to run the adb commands.
es0tericcha0s said:
If you can't run the exe file, then let me know, and I'll just upload a zip / folder with the necessary files. You do not need admin access to run the adb commands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would be really cool, actually. But check this out:
I talked someone into allowing me to utilize his laptop. I installed ADB, moved the Launcher APK to the folder suggested, ran the commands but the command prompter responded with "waiting for device" and progressed no further. Could it be a driver issue? I was under the impression that if the PC recognizes your device (which it did) then a new driver install was not necessary.
Dude was real cool about it even though I ran his battery down quite significantly and didn't even accomplish anything.
So, if I had the ADB files then I could just copy them to...say the PC desktop and run the command prompter from there? If so, then yes please upload and I'll just try it that route rather than rely on someone's personal PC. Know what i mean?
I do appreciate all of this. I'm getting quite the education here. If you ever get married, let me know and I'll come and dance as my favor to you.:good:
Peace...I'll return tomorrow.
What mode were you in when trying to install? The laptop had the most up to date drivers? You checked the Device Manager to make sure there was no yellow exclamation mark next to the phone? It's not unheard of for the PC to recognize in one mode, but not load the correct drivers in another, as there are different drivers for the phone depending on if it is booted, in recovery, or download mode or whatever they call it for that phone. Just make sure to get the PDAnet drivers installed and reboot. That should do the trick.
Everything else you should need will be in here:
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/9903887/adbfastboot.zip
es0tericcha0s said:
What mode were you in when trying to install? The laptop had the most up to date drivers? You checked the Device Manager to make sure there was no yellow exclamation mark next to the phone? It's not unheard of for the PC to recognize in one mode, but not load the correct drivers in another, as there are different drivers for the phone depending on if it is booted, in recovery, or download mode or whatever they call it for that phone. Just make sure to get the PDAnet drivers installed and reboot. That should do the trick.
Everything else you should need will be in here:
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/9903887/adbfastboot.zip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was in Recovery and I was also attempting to install the just the Launcher versus the entire ROM. And I was also feeling a tad bit rushed, cause dude was right there informing me of his battery status. "Well, it's down to 30%." Then 2 mins later.."Ok, looks like it just fell to 25%."
Haha...so yeah, with him pressuring me, I spaced on checking the device manager. This desktop that I'm on today seems to be cool. Just checked the manager & it informs me that my device is 'working properly'.
Off to give it another bloody joust, mate. Wish me luck...
Can you fully explain how to do this
es0tericcha0s said:
Not sure why you were trying to use Odin for a non Samsung phone...?
The stock rom flash would only be possible via PC or if you had a custom recovery installed.
Here's what you would need to do for the Virgin Mobile Venture:
Download CWM: http://www.sendspace.com/file/4gt04i
Download adb/fastboot: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790
Download rom: http://goo.im/devs/LeslieAnn/Venture/Stock_Venture.zip - Put on SD card.
Drivers: http://pdanet.co/bin/PdaNetA4150.exe (this program is for USB tethering and installs the adb drivers for your phone as well as many others)
The CWM img will need to be in the folder you unzipped for adb/fastboot. You'll need to boot to fastboot mode by powering on with while holding Volume Up.
Open a terminal prompt and change directories to your adb/fastboot folder. Then run this command:
fastboot flash recovery nameofrecovery.img - fill in the nameofrecovery with whatever the CWM file name is.
(if this doesn't work - make sure that your PC is reading the phone correctly by using the command: fastboot devices . If you don't get anything back, make sure you check the Device Manager for errors. If you have them, try reinstalling the drivers and rebooting the PC)
Then pop the battery out and then reboot to recovery via powering on while holding volume down. Once there, you should be able to do a factory reset and then install the stock rom zip. The volume keys should scroll through selections and the Enter key for accept, or Power if that doesn't work. Not really sure about this particular phone.)
Actually, you might just be able to use adb to install a launcher apk once you have CWM installed. Might be a little easier.
launcher apk must be in adb folder then while in CWM:
adb install nameoflauncher.apk
Note: You can rename zips and apks to be easier to type the commands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a old ass iMac desktop that has not been used in 5plus years at all and I'm a mother of 3 with no clue how to do any of this if you can dumb it down for me that would be very help full as well I have no clue where to download any of the needed files please help. My email is [email protected]
Thank you

MetroPCS & T-Mobile LG Leon STABLE Root (WORKS EVERY TIME 100%)

I am making this tutorial as I have had multiple versions of the LG LTE Leon and have used many firmware versions. I have created a stable method that has the least issues as I have had trouble with the latest firmware (MS34510f) disabling my root privileges. I have created a MEGA account specifically for all of the files necessary to complete this operation and have your device run smoothly. So, please follow my instructions exactly as stated and you should not have any issues. THIS PROCESS WILL REMOVE ALL DATA NOT SYNCED, DO READ BELOW NOTES IT IS VERY BENEFICIAL
Important Notes:
+This process will wipe all data that is not synced, it is important to ensure that no newer LG process are still on the device. Some might argue to leave data, to that I say good luck keeping your root and tethering without the device becoming suspiciously unstable.
+ I am not GUARANTEEING this will work on every model, but I have had an extremely high success rate with all Leon versions.
+ In this tutorial the process in which I remove Kingroot and replace it with SuperSu is for system stability. I find that most root functions I use seem to not work properly. (Wifi Tether Router and many others). So, I do recommend doing so.
+After the new OS is installed a MetroPCS splash screen will appear even if you do have T-Mobile. DO NOT BE ALARMED this firmware will not limit any functionality you had before, it will even help with tethering functionality.
Tutorial:
Let's Begin.
1. Download the link posted to obtain required files for this tutorial
Link: https://mega.nz/#F!PM4CQRqb!92kgIOnD0ZBY-8HVbtTwGQ
2. Open up LGFlashTool2014.exe
Begin by copying settings posted below, then click "normal flash"
3. Next click the "START" button
4. At this time, I recommend you verify all sync settings are to your liking and that all personal info needed is backed up
a. You have the option to throw all of your personal documents/pictures onto your SD card and removing it appropriately
(Go to: Settings - Storage - [scroll down to] Unmount SD card)
b. Next, navigate to Settings -Backup & reset [leave options default; both checked off] - Factory data reset - reset phone
c. Once reset it will most likely reboot, wipe, and then back to a OS. Now, you will Power Off entirely (make sure it is not plugged in so it will not go to charging mode)
d. Here is where we will hold down the Volume Up button with the phone unplugged from your PC. Then you must plug the USB into your phone.
e. A black screen with white text should post onto your screen, here we will continue to step 6
note: If this screen does not appear please power off and retry step d.
6. Next, follow the posted settings. Make sure to click the "Clear phone Software update Registry" button Then click "OK"
7. A new screen will arrive, and should begin the firmware download process. At this time it will take a few minute to load and should reboot to a fresh OS.
8. With the new OS in place, you can either follow the setup tutorial now or skip through for a later setup.
note: you can now insert your SD card
9. In the tools folder of the folder you downloaded copy the "mrw" folder to the Main Storage folder of your phone
10. Now copy the Kingroot apk to your downloads folder located on the main storage.
11. Go to Settings - About Phone - Software Info
At this time click the build number box a few times until it says you are a developer
12. Hit back until you are at the Setting menu, click on Developer options and check off "Stay Awake" and "Enable OEM Unlock" as well as "USB Debugging"
13. You may now run Kingroot, if it does not install root the first time it should flawlessly install the next.
14. After root is obtained, please go to your home screen and click the "Google Search" widget. Press Update Google Services and let it run. After that has been updated search for terminal emulator and install.
note: If the Play Store is acting fishy and force closing while typing in the search bar do not fret it will be fixed after reboot in further instruction
as an allternative use the jackpal.androidterm-1.0.70-71-minAPI4.apk provided in the "tools" folder
15. Open terminal and in a new window type: Su
16. Allow root usage and at this time type: sh /storage/emulated/0/mrw/root.sh
17. It will run with a few failed messages do not worry it should open SuperSu momentarily
18. Once SuperSu opens up allow it to update binaries using the "NORMAL" option but DO NOT REBOOT YET
19. At this time either download TWRP Manager from the play store or alternatively use the com.jmz.soft.twrpmanager-7.5.1.3-82-minAPI11.apk provided in the tools folder
20. Install and open TWRP Manager. Once opened click on device name and scroll until you see "LG Leon LTE (c50)"
a. Click on Recovery Version to Install and select "twrp-2.8.7.0-c50.img"
b. next click "Install Recovery" and if prompted for verification of install path and for install version select "YES" & "NORMAL"
21. After the TWRP setup is complete it may prompt you to reboot, if not click the arrow in the top left of the TWRP Manager screen and scroll down to "Reboot" and select "Reboot device"
22. After Reboot click TWRP Manager and verify a SuperSu prompt comes up if it hasn't already before the boot
At this point the device should be running smoothly. From here I prefer to do the following steps.
My Personal Setup after new install:
+Personally I like to install use a Root Uninstaller (I use 3C Toolbox Pro) and Uninstall and Backup all MetroPCS BloatWare including the Metro Browser.
+I also access the Hidden Menu by using the Dialer and Dial "2776348*#*"
- I scroll down to ApnUnlock and click to "Unlock APN"
- Then I navigate to Settings -Tethering & networks - Mobile Networks (I check off roaming data) - Access point names
--I then select the top APN and edit APN Type to: default,supl,mms,dun
---I click save from the top right selection, then turn on and off airplane mode
+If you are and Xposed user download "xposed-v79-sdk22-arm.zip","xposed-uninstaller-20150831-arm.zip", and "XposedInstaller_3.0_alpha4.apk" from: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3034811
-install the Xposed Installer, then Go to TWRP Manager, use reboot to recovery and from there click install and navigate to the "xposed-v79-sdk22-arm.zip" and install and reboot, it will reboot with a installing screen before your home screen, takes 5 minutes.
+I also use this AMAZING app "Wifi Tether Router", it is the only tethering app I use that works consistently (if you have an unlimited data plan). I get 30mbps up and down, playing many multiplayer games off my PC and PS4 averaging ping as low as 30 ! Setting I use for our device are in a post I created here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/leon/help/unlimited-metropcs-t-mobile-tether-t3290180
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Special Thanks to:
MrW0lf from www.W0lfdroid.com for the Kingroot to SuperSU scrip
Numerous users on the XDA forums I pieced all of this information with
Fabio Grasso for making the amazing Wifi Tether Router
Team Win for being creating an awesome utility that has saved me from numerous bricks creating a stable method
Xposed and the creators of awesome additions such as Lolistat, Lucky Patcher, Max Lock, and SNAPPREFS
Any feedback? Did I do Okay? Questions? Let me know!
Worked for me on T-mobile H345
Worked for me on T-mobile H345 any way to install a H340 firmware on it? I GeT a Binary not authorised when trying to flash.
kodacy said:
Worked for me on T-mobile H345 any way to install a H340 firmware on it? I GeT a Binary not authorised when trying to flash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apologies for the late response, I never received a notification of your posting. I would not recommend that as I believe the H340 has a different "radio" driver or cellular chip, If I'm not mistaken the H340 isn't even LTE, the H345 is. In that case it may be possible. One thing I suggest doing before wasting your time in using any other ROM is googling H345 vs Ms345, typically the phonemore.com results will provide you with an abundance of hardware specs and let you know if they're different! Just be weary of the newest MS34510f_00.KDZ firmware I believe it has an active unroot process I've had some stability issues. I am using MS34510D_00.KDZ for months and have had no issues whatsoever! Again, I'm sorry I got back to you so late, let me know how everything goes!
brad2192 said:
Apologies for the late response, I never received a notification of your posting. I would not recommend that as I believe the H340 has a different "radio" driver or cellular chip, If I'm not mistaken the H340 isn't even LTE, the H345 is. In that case it may be possible. One thing I suggest doing before wasting your time in using any other ROM is googling H345 vs Ms345, typically the phonemore.com results will provide you with an abundance of hardware specs and let you know if they're different! Just be weary of the newest MS34510f_00.KDZ firmware I believe it has an active unroot process I've had some stability issues. I am using MS34510D_00.KDZ for months and have had no issues whatsoever! Again, I'm sorry I got back to you so late, let me know how everything goes!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem thank you for your help!
will i still have metro service?
Port(usb or serial) not found! tried on, off, update mode, changing ports and unplugging every other port. any thoughts?
kap10nuka said:
Port(usb or serial) not found! tried on, off, update mode, changing ports and unplugging every other port. any thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here (firmware update) usb not detected when using the S/W update tool
After going all the way through this guide with a T-Mobile Leon, I do indeed have a Metro PCS ROM and root, which is great! Unfortunately, it also refuses to acknowledge my T-Mobile SIM. In fairness, I did not even insert a SIM for the first time (just got the phone) until the end of the process, but it shows as carrier locked which is significantly less than useful. I'll flash back to a TMO rom and put the SIM in to double check, but it's quite a bummer. Great job on the guide otherwise, though! It definitely did what it says on the tin; I have root and apart from the SIM lock which may be my fault somehow it works great.
Hey bud those links are no longer valid know where i can get them?

Android Revolution 9.3 for HTC One m7

I successfully installed Android Revolution 9.3 recently so thought I'd give some details for reference to anyone else it might help as I made a mistake (on purpose of course, just to make things interesting!) and encountered a few road blocks that made things a little tricky. I've not posted here many times and wouldn't claim to be an expert but have quite a bit of experience with Android (Kindle Fire was my first device to which was an uphill struggle all the way) and other tech experience with PC's and some Linux OS.
If you have a device with different specifications please be very careful when it comes to downloading and using software on your device. Doing so with the incorrect software (eg. software for a different device, wrong CID number...) can be disastrous so please be careful - soft-bricking is one thing but a hard-brick is always possible if you don't pay careful attention.
If anything here doesn't make sense or there are processes you don't understand, step back and re-consider before doing anything. You carry out these procedures at your own risk and I accept no liability. Think, think and think again, it's worth taking the time.
First things first, I have an HTC One m7 that I rooted and custom ROM'd almost as soon as I got it, so Root access is a pre-requisite for these procedures and everything described here is done with a Windows operating system.
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If you don't know what “Root Access” is or need help with it, here's a great guide and there is an abundance of other information on XDA for just about any question you might have.
I originally flashed TWRP 2.6.0.1 Custom Recovery and installed Trickdroid 11.0.0, an excellent, customisable ROM that gave me almost no problems apart from APEX Launcher not working, NOVA Launcher works brilliantly though. I haven't found any direct upgrades (please correct me if I'm wrong) but as it stands it's still a very smooth and stable ROM. My other interest was to improve my phone through firmware upgrades, which is a different process from those described here and require S-OFF (Security Off) unless you're using OTA (Over The Air) Updates, which requires a locked bootloader!
Initial Upgrade Problems
I'm quite fastidious when it comes to these things, researching, collecting and organising everything I need before hand so I was pretty annoyed that I missed the note towards the bottom of the Android Revolution HD (ARHD) page where it states that TWRP 2.6.3.3 or newer is required - I can confirm this is indeed the case! I also did a data wipe in TWRP before starting the AROMA installer - not sure this was problematic but it probably didn't help and certainly wasn't necessary so I would advise against doing that.
Whilst the AROMA installer completed apparently successfully (apart from one “error” message - set_perm: some changes failed), it became very clear it was not successful when the phone failed to boot normally and instead simply booted into Recovery every time. I was quite worried I was in dire straits because I didn't have any back up or alternative ROM on the SD card at the time, and was about to discover the joys Windows 8.1 brings to certain processes - more on that later.
So I was faced with a semi-useless phone that allowed me to get into the bootloader and Recovery but not much else, however it's a credit to TeamWin because TWRP continued to function flawlessly, despite my best efforts to screw everything up! No variation or combination of wiping outside of or in AROMA and re-installing ARHD achieved anything new - the partitions weren't mounting or being read correctly (the usb partition in particular “could not be mounted” according to TWRP), so it was clear I was sufficiently over the edge and needed to back up before I did any permanent damage.
Solutions
All of the steps I took may not be absolutely necessary, but because it was quite screwed up I was very keen to wipe the slate and get everything back to a point I was happy everything was fully functional.
The first problem was that fastboot was not working from the bootloader, by which I mean I was unable to use fastboot commands from Windows, and the phone wasn't recognized by the Device Manager, regardless of driver's installed, which I knew were correct - this was a Windows 8.1 quirk, however while the phone was in Recovery I was able to communicate via adb.
So connected to the computer, I opened a command prompt: simplest way to do this is opening the folder where adb is on your computer, which is usually your main hard drive eg. C:, where an adb folder will have been created during the installation of the tools, right-clicking in that folder with the SHIFT key held down, then selecting “Open command window here”:
C:\adb>adb push Trickdroid.zip /sd/
[If you don't follow that method, you simply have to open a standard Command window and navigate to the location of your adb folder eg. C:\>cd adb]
NOTE: the "/sd/" command at the end here is important as it tells adb the location for the file to go on your phone (the internal SD card). I've seen this push command in other tutorials without this part and the operation has failed.
You'll get a few lines in the command prompt window confirming the process starting and completing.
Then I followed the usual installation procedure for a custom ROM through TWRP (Install> Select Trickdroid .zip) - I used this ROM because I had it to hand and knew it worked.
Once the install was completed I had a functional phone again and could start to rebuild the shattered pieces of my pride. As mentioned before, I didn't have a backup on the phone - this was because I lost my original stock backup thanks to a self-destructing hard-drive (avoid Seagate hard drive's), so I started to hunt around. Thanks to the wonderful contributor's of XDA I found some excellent resources, but which you use depends on your preferred approach, and what you want to achieve but here are a few.
MIKE1986's STOCK ROM's
RUU Collection's
Nandroid Collection's
HTC Guru's Reset
Keep in mind - each of these resources have very important and specific processes that go along with each of them, so be very careful when it comes to using them.
Windows 8.1 Quirks
Windows 8.1 (originally) had some difficulty talking to attached Android devices through fastboot, and whilst having the correct HTC drivers is vital, I found a thread relating to a Windows Registry issue, requiring a Windows Update (which you may have already received) and an update to the Windows Registry (which is crucial).
Installing HTC Sync will give you the relevant drivers, but the program itself can interfere with many processes, plus it's a bit rubbish so if you uninstall it (just HTC Sync Manager) from the “Uninstall Programs” application in the Windows Control Panel, you'll just be left with the drivers and no unnecessary bloatware on your computer.
There's a simple download and instructions on how to apply the relevant changes to the Windows Registry which can be found here. If you haven't done anything like this before it can look quite intimidating but rest assured, follow these instructions to the letter and you'll be fine, maybe don't try screwing around with the other registry files though!
Recovery - Refresh and Upgrade
Whilst trying to get the phone to boot (in it's semi-disabled condition) I played around with the backup functions in Recovery, which unsurprisingly didn't work. I also deleted some of the folders within the TWRP “Backups” folder, thinking they might be confusing or causing some conflict.
So, to start afresh, I flashed a stock recovery, which can be found here.
Your phone needs to be in fastboot mode and attached to your computer - power off, then hold the volume down button and power button until the bootloader opens. Your recovery image needs to be in the adb folder, preferably named “recovery.img”. Open the Command Prompt for adb (right click in the adb folder whilst holding the SHIFT key) and flash the .img file over to the phone.
C:\adb>fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
Again you'll see a few lines in the command prompt window confirming the process starting and completing, once it's done shutdown and reboot the phone.
Of course the stock recovery isn't much use in terms functionality, and this process effects the ROM, essentially re-setting it - your SD will be fine but if you had eg. text messages, they'll be deleted so back anything like that up before doing this.
I shut down and re-booted once more just to be sure everything was ok, and then flashed the custom recovery in the same way as the stock, but now was the time to jump to a more up to date TWRP (or recovery of your choice) - I went with 3.0.0 in this case. Delete the stock recovery from the adb folder, then save the new custom recovery .img file (again re-naming it to “recovery.img”) in the same folder before fastboot flashing with the command prompt window:
C:\adb>fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
Sweet, now we've got a lovely new TWRP that looks a little different than the old version but with the same wonderful UI and functionality, and a few extras. The first time I booted into Recovery it asked me if I would like TWRP to be able to write onto the phone, or remain as “read only”. Whilst you might want to do this, there's no real reason and it kind of defeats the purpose of the recovery, plus you're not going to be able to do a backup or install files so just agree to that and you're good to go.
TWRP Information & Resources
System/ROM
Now running smoothly I was ready to upgrade, but to ensure there were no unpleasant ghosts in the system I went back to a stock ROM first. There's a variety of options as mentioned earlier, including any backup you may have saved yourself, but I went with a stock ROM provided by mike1986 this time which can be found here, whose incredible work and contributions can't be underestimated.
[NOTE: This *STOCK* ROM is NOT the same as the “out of the box” system my phone originally came with, which was 4.1.2 “Jellybean”, HTC Sense 5.0, however it served the purpose of wiping the phone slate clean to a stock system.]
I used the deodexed 6.09.401.12 - basically the difference between odexed and deodexed is the .apk structure - it's most specifically related to modifications and avoiding conflicts in the ROM. Here's a thread if you want to learn a bit more about it.
So just like any other ROM, copy the .zip file onto the SD card - simplest way to do this is having your phone connected to your computer, open up the browser window and navigate to your SD card, selecting a suitable location, just make sure you know where it is! (You can push it over via adb but it's really not necessary.) Then boot into Recovery, click Install, navigate to the .zip file location and select One_6.09.401.12_deodexed.zip (or whichever one you're using), then swipe to install.
The AROMA installer will kick in so just follow the on-screen instructions, reading each step carefully and soon you'll have the ROM installed with the usual Root access.
Don't forget the first boot after an install like this takes some time - that's completely normal, including an “Optimizing Apps” window before you get to the home screen so just be patient.
If you want to stop here then obviously that's your choice, however if you wanted to get/use OTA updates you'd need to follow some other steps to be totally stock, including locking your Bootloader, and there's a wealth of information here if that's your aim.
Custom ROM
Onto the Custom ROM of your choice - I recommend you do some research and check out reviews to find what you like the look of, but I've gone with mike1986's Android Revolution HD this time round. Download the ROM .zip and just like before, move it to your phone's SD card (no point in keeping the Stock ROM on the phone as well so delete that first to free up space, though you might want to keep it on just in case until the upgrade has completed successfully).
Reboot into Recovery via the bootloader, click Install and navigate to the .zip file, select Android_Revolution_HD-One_93.0_ef29f7.zip and swipe to install, carefully following the steps in AROMA and installing according to your preferences.
Once again after completion, reboot and be patient whilst the first boot runs its course and you're all set!
Don't forget you'll need to install the Xposed Framework to take full advantage of the Sense Toolbox within ARHD, without it simply won't work fully - it will work at a basic level but you'll get a warning/notification that you don't have full functionality. You can find lots of detailed information about this here - read it carefully because again, the correct software for your phone is very important - basically you need the latest installer, which is an .apk, and the relevant .zip files for your device.
For my phone (HTC One m7 - Quad-core 1.7 Ghz Snapdragon (Krait) 600 CPU, ARMv7 Soc (2Gb RAM) ARM CPU), one of the packages wouldn't install, claiming it wasn't correct for my device. Why exactly I'm not sure (because I absolutely, positively got the right packages!) so I'll update this when I know more, however the Xposed Framework software has worked fine since then, I'm not getting any error messages, it's all up to date and working fine.
That's it! Explore you're new ROM and enjoy. I hope this is helpful, if you've got any questions feel free to ask and I'll do my best to help. Much credit and thanks go to the people I've looked to for advice, and who have done incredible work compiling, modding and hosting the files used for these processes.
Thank and donate whatever you can to them so they can continue the sterling work.
Particular thanks to:
Mike1986
crushalot
matt95
sToRm1nG
… and anyone else in the XDA-Developers community I haven't named specifically but have been exceptionally helpful in sharing their knowledge and resources.

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