Search This Site

Loading Search Widget...

May 28, 2012

Internal Memory Still Not Empty Even After Using S2E in CyanogenMod 9 Rom. Is S2E app working?

Question :

I installed the simple2ext in my cyanogenmod 9 as mentioned  in this article at Handy Information blog. after installing when I checked my task manager it shows that all my apps are installed in device but when i check the sd-ext directory it's showing all apps there. My device, which is Samsung galaxy mini gt-s5570, is showing 81 MB used memory in task manager application. I can't understand whats happening, please help?

Reply :

The issues here is probably with the task manager's reporting. Since a2sd scripts like s2e bind internal /data/app folder to /sd-ext/app folder, and thus any apps which are installed in internal memory are installed to external sd-card partition. The task manage app you are talking about is probably fooled by the script. 

So, there's no need to worry at all provided that you see your apps at /sd-ext/apps directory. If you still have doubts you can confirm that by navigating to /data/app/ directory and learning that there are no any apk applications you have installed so far. It means S2E script is working just fine and you needn't worry a thing about it.

About the used internal memory you've reported -it's so because still some data (either Dalivk Cache or Applications Data or both) are inside the internal memory card. While it is not recommend -for best performance- to move dalvik cache to sd-ext partition, you can still move applications data to sd-ext partition from with s2e app menu and reduce the use of your internal memory. There's another reason not to move dalvik cache to sd-ext i.e. We are trying here to reduce the use of internal memory not make it empty instead, which would render it useless. But, you can still move it to second partition on your sdcard if you want.

May 28, 2012 by ·

Upgrading Galaxy Ace GT-S5830L to Latest Gingerbread 2.3.6 Firmware.

Galaxy Ace GT-S5830L is a variant of Samsung Galaxy Ace GT-S5830 smartphone and the models which are sold in Americas are especially know by this (GT-S5830L) model number. In this article, I'll explain to you in details the step by step instructions to upgrade your handset with latest Android 2.3.6 Gingerbread firmwares. So, to begin with download a firmware for your region below and provided you have give requirements already (if you don't have them then download them too) we are ready to move ahead.

GT-S5830L 2.3.6 Firmwares Downloads

Region : South America (Columbia)
Firmware : S5830LUBKPA
CSC : S5830LCOLKP2
Release Date : 2011 September
Download : Link 1
Region : North America (Trinidad and Tobago)
Firmware : S5830LUBKP7
CSC : S5830LUBKP7
Release Date : July 2011
Download : Link 1

Requirements

So, when you've got everything up and ready follow these simple instructions below to upgrade your galaxy ace GT-S5830L to latest android version.

Instructions For Flashing Rom via Odin


1. Now, extract your download and examine it.

2. If you have got a single .tar or .tar.md5 file then follow the steps give in Method A. Otherwise, if you have got two or more (usually four) .tar or .tar.md5 files then configure Odin as said in Method B.
  • Method A : Configuring Odin For One Package file.
    Configuring Odin with one package file.
    • Run Odin Multidownloader for Galaxy Ace GT-S5830L.
    • Check One Package, Auto reboot and Protect OPS check boxes.
    • Click on OPS button and Load Cooper_v1.0.ops file on it.
    • Now go to the bottom and click on One Package button.
    • Load the single *.tar or .tar.md5 file in this field.
  • Method B : Configuring Odin for Flashing with Multiple Files
  • Selecting multiple files in Odin.
    • Run Odin Multidownloader for Galaxy Ace GT-S5830.
    • Check Auto reboot and Protect OPS check boxes. [ Note : Do not check one package option, use this option only when you need to flash a complete rom in one package.]
    • Click on OPS button and Load Cooper_v1.0.ops file on it.
    • Click on BOOT button and Select .tar (or .tar.md5) file with  APBOOT in the name.
    • Click on PDA button and Select .tar (or .tar.md5) file with CODE / PDA in the name.
    • Click on PHONE button and Select .tar (or .tar.md5) file with MODEM in the name.
    • Click on CSC button and Select .tar (or .tar.md5) file with csc / csc-multi in the name.
    • Leave EFS blank.
3. Now, once odin is configured, power off your galaxy ace.

4. Boot up your device in download mode (Press Volume Down + Home + Power button simultaneously)

5. Only when your phone is in download mode, then connect it to your PC via USB Cable.

6. Once connected in download mode, Odin will say Detected! (see the image below) and then you may press Start button.
Do not proceed ahead until Odin recognize/ detects your device.

7. Wait for about 5-6 minutes for Odin to flash the firmware and then when it says PASS at the top left box, you may disconnect your device.
Wait till Odin says PASS. This is the notification that your device is successfully upgraded.

That's all. Now, you have latest gingerbread 2.3.6 firmware on your galaxy ace gt-s5830l smartphone. After your device boots up, you can take your time and examine all the cool new updates provided in the latest version. No doubt you are going to love them. So, have fun playing with your smartphone and enjoy :).

by ·

May 23, 2012

How to Download Files From Mediafire in Android Smartphones?

From past few days, I've seen around different android groups spread via social networks, the issue of downloading mediafire links in android devices. Seeing this it made me think, is this really a big issues at all. Well, I still think it isn't? And, there are probably many different ways download files that are hosted on file sharing site like mediafire on your mobile phone. Below are five easiest methods of downloading such files.
  1. The most simplest solution : Open any mediafire link in your android browser and then click on download. Android's download manager should take the download and download it in the background.
  2. If android browser is not working, try dolphin mini. I've download via mediafire using dolphin mini many times.
  3. If both the methods above are not working, then mediafire has got it's own app in Play Store from where you can search and download any files that are hosted in mediafire.
  4. Well, by now, you should have already finished your download. But, if you are still stuck in this small issue, then install any download manager apps from Play Store such as Byte Tornado, Android Download Manager, Faster Downloader, Turbo Downloader or any other (whichever you prefer) and then open the link in a browser and long press on it to get Share this link and then select your choice of download manager. Now, you download should be handled by your newly installed download manager.
  5. I really hope, you're over with this issue by now. But, still if you are stuck, install any browser from market that supports changing user agent. Android's stock browser also supports it. Then go to settings and in User Agent option select Desktop instead of default Android. Once done, open the link and click on download. Your download will begin instantly.
That's all with downloading files from mediafire. If you are still unable to download then, do comment below. We'll think of something for your problem together.

May 23, 2012 by ·

May 20, 2012

Partitioning 2 GB SD-Card On Galaxy Mini GT-S5570.

Question :
I bought an 8GB SD Card the other day, but, it didnt work on my galaxy mini. The guy at the shop said that Samsung Galaxy Mini GT-S5570 can not handle it. So, I am stuck on my 2gb SD Card.
I just wanted to ask you if partitioning this 2GB SD Card, will I be able to make the partition to 500MB ?
The original 180MB for apps is way too low, and I think I could do with 500MB somehow.
Reply :

The guy at the shop probably didn't know much about it. In fact, Galaxy Mini can support sdcard upto 32 GB, however I don't recommend using it, since your device will load slow as it'll take much time to scan the card and load files. 8 GB or 16 GB memory card should be enough for galaxy mini users. Now, for you case, if you are really not satisfied then, I suggest you pay a visit to some other shops and seek for a 4, 8 or 16 GB card. Don't forget to try it out on the spot. It should work fine.
Note : Some cards need to be formatted before you can see or use them.

Also, yes, you can partition your 2 GB card to create a sd-ext partition of 500 MB which should be enough if you are a normal users. Simply follow the step by step instructions given at this article to partition your sd-card. In case you buy a new card, don't allocate more than 2 GB for your sd-ext partition. 500 MB or 1 GB should be enough for normal users.

Also, it is to be noted that, even if you use sd-ext partition (to preserve your internal memory), it doesn't necessarily mean all apps should be installed in sd-ext/app/ directory. Some apps, which support Androids' app2sd (a new feature introduced by Google with Android 2.2.1 Froyo release, which let's developer to install some or all part of application and data to be stored in sd-card.)  feature will be installed in sd-card as usual. This means, most games will be installed in sd-card which justifies the reason why you shouldn't allot more than 1 GB of memory for your second partition in sd-card.

Good luck and happy partitioning.

May 20, 2012 by ·

May 16, 2012

Best CPU Settings For Custom Kernels

Question :
I use CyanogenMod RC 5.7 on my Galaxy Mini/Pop GT-S5570 and No Frills CPU Control App to configure CPU frequencies. And I have a question which is best "governor" and "I/O scheduler" for my galaxy mini?

Reply : 
Well, in cyanogenmod  rc5.7 you can simply configure CPU Settings from within the rom's Settings=>>CyanogenMod Settings=>>Performance=>>CPU Settings options. It provides more configuration option than No Frills CPU control app. But, you can use any according to your preferences.

While, which configuration is better for Governor and I/O Scheduler filed depends upon the use of the device. Most, better and battery efficient configuration is to select SmartAssv2 as Governor and sio as I/O Scheduler. Smartass governor monitors the device's usages regularly and adjust CPU frequency accordingly between Maximum and minimum frequency. This way it will both be efficient for performance as well as battery life.

To optimize your device for efficient battery life, simply set Max. CPU frequency to not more than 700 MHz and minimum CPU frequency to below 300 MHz. Also, you can optimize the Max. CPU screen-off frequency by selecting it to around 400 Mhz. While this will save battery, it might make your device lag while waking up from sleep or in case you use background data and sync continuously even while screen is off. If that is the case then, the normal 600 Mhz or any other frequency near it should be fine.

May 16, 2012 by ·

May 6, 2012

Samsung Galaxy Ace - Rooting and Upgrading Issues.

Questions :
Could you please answer following two questions about Samsung Galaxy Ace?

1. How do I root Android 2.2.1 (JXKC1) ? I've tried some ways but they didn't work; such as "z4root" or "supper one click". My friends say i should first upgrade it to Gingerbread 2.3.3 but I don't want to lose lots of installed apps and a calendar with hundreds reminder points!

2. Is there any app to lock the screen? I know this feature is on phone but it locks it in period of time like every 30s . I wanna do it myself when I need.

Replies :
It simple to root Android 2.2.1. Most probably Super One Click can root it so, I suggest you try it again following these simple instructions. However, if you are still unable to root with it try using Unlock Root app, which is a one click simple root utility that supports and roots many devices in no time. You can find more information about it and download it from here. If you are still unable to root, post a comment below and we'll work out something for it.

However, I too would recommend you to upgrade to latest Gingerbread 2.3.6 version since you'll get a lot of improvements in your device and smooth performance after the update. I can see that you are afraid of losing your apps and data. But, there's no need to worry about it. You can use a powerful mobile management tool called MyPhoneExplorer  to backup most of your data including contacts, SMSs, Calls Lists, Calender, Notes, Alarm, etc and many others.

Just connect your device to the PC and run MyPhoneExplorer app then, sync everything to your PC as well as do a backup from Extras menu. Later you can sync the data again back to your device. Most probably it can help you backup applications too, but, if you are unable then use App Control app to backup your applications. Also, calender is in constant sync with Google servers, so, you won't lose your remainders even if you don't back it up. So, grab MyPhoneExplorer from here and give it a try. You can alternatively use Smasung Kies to sync your apps, however the difference is Samsung Kies is not compatible with custom roms while MyPhoneExplorer stand out with most android devices with any rom out there.

Then, follow these simple step by step instructions to upgrade to latest Android 2.3.6 version. When you are done upgrading you can simply root your galaxy ace gt-s5830 smartphone by flashing a small zip file on your recovery. Detailed steps on rooting galaxy ace running gingerbread are given in this article.

I'm not sure about the lock screen thing. I can't understand why you'd like to keep your screen awake as it will consume some battery. So, it is better to lock your screen while not in use. However, I think I got what you are trying to do and a simple solution is change the screen lock time to 15 minutes or 30 minutes depending upon your preferences. Then, it won't turn off in 30 seconds, but if you'd like to turn it off you can press the Power (aka Lock) button and lock the screen whenever you want. This is quite secure method, since it will lock the screen anyway in 15 or 30 minutes even if you forget to lock it by yourself.

I hope this solves your problem and all your queries are answers. If you have any doubts, do post a comment below and I'll try my best to clear it out. Have a nice time rooting and upgrading.

May 6, 2012 by ·

May 4, 2012

Task Manager For Custom Android Roms

It is well known that custom roms such as cyanogenmod doesn't come with a task manager. The developers believe android system to be intelligent enough to handle various stages of android activity and thus, manage task properly by itself. However, end users are more interested in managing the task by themselves.

Such users believe that killing task will free more RAM space as well as save their battery and prolong it's life. While it sounds to be true, it is not. Instead killing process that are required for the system will cause them to be loaded again in the memory, which consumes more battery then it would when they were active in the memory. Yes, starting new applications in mobile devices consumes more energy then keeping it alive. So, android handles them quite efficiently by caching frequently used processes. Thus, I'd recommend users not to mess with the running processes and leave everything up to the system to manage them.

However, I'll not end it here. As the title suggests, this article will help you get working task manager in your android custom roms. The task manager app below is tested to be working fine in Samsung Galaxy Mini/Pop GT-S5570, but, it will probably work on other devices too. So, if you are here looking for one, just give it a try.

I've also, posted about getting task manager on custom roms previously at this article. However, users found the process (instructions) mentioned there very difficult to follow. So, in this article, I'll provide you with a simple flashable zip file which you can flash in your custom recovery and get the task done easily. So, let's begin :
  • Download Task Manager.zip file from below :
    File Name : TaskManager.zip
    File Size : 856 KB
    File Type : Zip | Flashable via Recovery
    Download : Link 1
    
  • Copy the downloaded zip file to root directory of your sd-card.
  • Reboot your android device to clockwork mod recovery. [Press Home + Power button simultaneously to go to recovery.]
  • Select Install Zip From SD-Card => Choose Zip From SD-Card and select the file named TaskManager.zip from the list.
  • Wait till it is installed on your system.
  • Reboot your device, when everything is done.
That's all. Now you should get Task Manager app on your app drawer. Run the application and manage all the processes as much as you like. However, you might also want to consider my note from above and leave the job to the system. It's all your choice.



May 4, 2012 by ·

Add this bottom sharing buttons

Add This Vertical Sharing Buttons

InfoLinks Related Tags + FB + VigLink Scripts

All Rights Reserved Android Solutions
Sponsored by Handy Information