WeAreNotAlone
03-19-2007, 04:31 PM
Preface
First of all, my apologies for the lengthy info that follows. I am just trying to drive home the reasons on "WHY" the info is asked to be posted.
Newbie (new to the scene) , Or Pro Modder... it is VERY important that you post the ID strings/info asked for in the BODY of the FIRST post when "starting" a thread.
(Ditto if you post in in a existing thread)
BTW.. if you're "giving" advice it's helpful to mention "what" unit the tips "apply" to via those ID strings, instead of the "generic" model number as Motorola will have several units called by the same "name", but they will have different firmware revisions- affecting which procedures /files can be safely used!!!. When "giving" advice, post the id strings in the body of your post.:thumbsup:
BTW, in case you're "wondering"...
1: The info asked for is important because it "ties" all the posts, all the suggestions, tips, info, how-to's, files, or links to files or info PERMANENTLY to the model /firmware revision number of the unit being talked about, and the "problem".
2: Posting the info takes all of about 3.2 seconds "extra" or less when "creating" a thread asking for "help"... And all of .5 seconds when "talking" about "your phone" in other posts/threads.
It's not hard to do...The basic procedure being to COPY and PASTE the info in the BODY of the FIRST post in the thread.. UPPER LEFT HAND CORNER (in BOLD print), away from the body of your question so it "stands-out", instead of being buried within the body of your post...
UPPER LEFT HAND SIDE, in BOLD... So it's in the SAME place from thread to thread, post to post...
3: 3rd thing to do is when "talking" about "your phone".... Refer to your phone by it's firmware prefix ID strings, instead of calling it "my phone" this, or "my phone" that. :fryingpan:
Doing this greatly reduces the amount of time, confusion in threads. Additionally, referring to your phone by it's ID strings when giving advice also goes a long ways towards reducing the chance of the wrong procedures being used by someone. I can't count the number of times over the years I've run across what would have been some really "good" info, saw some really good posts- and the posters didn't post their phones ID strings, referred to their phone while talking about it as "my phone", instead of referring to it by the phones firmware prefix ID strings. Big problems :shots: arise if say for example the person had the info in their "sig", and that "sig" is changed later.:furious:
In short act like you were contacting tech support- That you are allowed (1) Free post , (1) response by the "tech" who is trying to help you fix your problem... and that any additional posts made by you, or by others is being billed to you at $100-$250+ a pop!
FYI: Posting the asked for info is important as Motorola usually has several "different" versions of units being marketed called the same name... but under the hood they are different!!!!...
Motorola sells phones all over the world... for example Rogers and T-Mo are both selling a unit they "call" a V3T using different firmware /bootloaders.. Ditto on the V3R's... different versions being sold, different phone, firmware, etc-but being called by the same name.
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Who doesn't post the info?
Two groups, those that don't know how to find out the info, and the second group thinking it's not needed, since after all a phone is a phone is a phone, all V3T's use the same firmware /boot loader, right? (wrong)
The bulk of newbies don't post the info because the don't know "how" to ID their phones correctly.
(Info on how to verify the phones firmware ID strings so the proper files/procedures are used are below- It takes only a few seconds- Does not require ANY tools.)
The second group that do know how to ID their phone not posting the info as they care nothing of the info in a thread "helping" someone else that may be running a search, or may run across the info later on and refuses or balks about posting the info when asked because they only are only wanting a answer to "their" question.... they could care less if 6 months down the road if the info in the thread could help someone else. (heck 6-days for that matter!)
This type of poster being called the ME-ME-ME type poster...
(This type of poster using the "excuse" that taking a extra few seconds to post their phones ID strings, what provider they are on is too much "trouble". This type of poster may have the info in his sign, and could care less if later he changes his sig causing all the tips, suggestions to no longer be "linked" to that firmware/model ID number..)
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Don't be a ME-ME-ME type poster.... Think "Two-way-Street: when posting.
The Two-Way-Street poster posts in a format that gives the asked for info "upfront", posts it in the BODY of the first post in a thread he/she has created, in addition to his "sig" if he has it posted there because the "sig" on most boards is "changeable"-it being a global change across all posts if changed. A two-way-street type poster also refers to "his phone" by the firmware ID, instead of referring to it as "my phone" this, or "my phone" that.
For the V3T series you'd refer to your phone as my R3443U5, or my R479.... As you can see this is not allot of "extra" typing...
Contents
How to:
1: Save yourself alot of grief, plus save everyone alot of time.:cheers:
2: Find out (for sure) and CONFIRM which model phone you have BEFORE doing anything to it so you don't "brick-it":bricked:
3: Provide info that will GREATLY reduce confusion in threads, GREATLY increase the odds of YOU getting the CORRECT INFO, the CORRECT answer to "your" problem FAST!!!...
4: Post in a format that ties permanently all the posts to the model /problem /fix /files used, which will help those searching later on...
5: Post in a manner that "respects" other posters's "time".
(I.E. It should NOT take multiple posts to find out the below info. Info that BTW will help to CONFIRM the CORRECT files, procedures for your phone...)
Intro:
Ok,... to lay some ground work as to "why"??? all the below is important try to get into the mindset when posting to "think" two-way street.
"Two-way-Street" means you're trying to of course get a "fix" for "your" problem... but at the same time give much needed info that will help those trying to help YOU, plus may help persons "later on" doing a "search".
(Keep in mind that someone "later" on could be YOU doing a search and as a general rule if needed info isn't in the BODY of a post most Search engines can't see it you know!!!...
Additonally be aware that Search engines can't read "sigs" that contain images, Nor "sigs" themselves last time I checked either so be aware of that if you are relying on your "sig" to convey the info talked about below!)
Not doing the below is like walking into a auto parts store (or shop) demanding a water pump for a "car" (or tech advice),.. REFUSING to tell the tech or parts guy which "model" you have... and then complaining that you got the wrong parts!:confused: (Or wrong tech advice...)
Try this.. go asking around for parts, or tech advice, but REFUSING to tell the parts guy, or tech the year, model, option package on the car and see if you get the right parts, OR tech advice!
Better yet BUY about $1,000 - $5,000 or $10,000 worth of non-returnable parts!!!... Refusing to tell the parts guy what they are for...:madcaveman:
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While Tech Support is FREE here...Keep in mind we all only have so many hours in the day...
( Note: While the support provided here is "free", we all have only so many hours in the day so be aware of respecting other poster's time! )
Get into the mindset like you're "paying" for tech support, like EACH post was costing YOU $100-$250
If you were paying to get something fixed, or buying "non-returnable" parts you'd tell the tech or parts guy the model number, the firmware, and other details "up-front", right?...
Of course you would, because the faster a solution comes about the LESS money it's going to cost YOU...!)
If you were being "billed" $100- $250 for each "post" made by the tech(s), (OR you). You'd for sure want to provide the tech(s) the model number, the firmware the unit was running etc... What provider you're on etc... in your "first" post, and in any future posts- so there was NO confusion on what unit /model you had, what firmware it was running right?
Sure you would.
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In a nutshell I guess what I'm trying to say is you need to try to structure your posts to provide info "upfront" to people trying to help YOU.
It should not take multiple posts to find out the phone's ID string which "confirms" the model number, which files or procedures can be done on the phone safely, which network it is being used on.
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Something that goes a long way towards the above is when posting to get into the Two-way-Street mindset, instead of the Me-Me-Me mindset that alot of posters seem to have.
(Me-Me-Me mindset = I want the answer to "my" question NOW.. Balking, or refusing to provide basic background info.
Typical Me-Me-Me poster having to have the needed firmware ID strings, the provider info pulled out of them like pulling teeth out of a CROCODILE!!!)
Think "Two-way Street" when posting. If you do everyone benefits!...
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Keep in mind when posting that people from all over the world may read your post...
http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/2240/image001vt3.gif
Really sucks (if you're the one taking time out of your day) to spend alot of time trying to help someone out, then find out for example they had a R479 based Rogers V3T.. and all the info you hunted up for them pertained to the R3443U5 V3T as sold by T-Mobile USA.
Putting the shoe on the other foot for a minute, Imagine YOU are the one "helping", trying to help...
As you can imagine it's no fun spending 5-10-15 minutes (or more!!!) writing up a "personalized" how-to" to someone's problem only to find out later all that time was wasted....
Posting your phone's ID strings (upper left hand corner in BOLD please),what carrier the phone came from, is being used on, and referring to your phone when "talking" about it by the firmware prefix number GREATLY decreases such events. I've seen threads go on for quite a while on other boards, running into over 100+ posts or more with people trying to "help" the OP (original poster)... and then the OP finally posts back he's on xyz carrier, OR the model the OP "thought" he had finally comes to light that it is something totally different... and all the suggestions, the time put in by ALL those posters have been for nothing.
In addition to the info stated so far and that which follows, If you're "new" to posting, Or still can't understand "why" I'm stressing the above you might want to check out this short movie on "posting tips": (Warning... a little adult language)
http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/posting.php
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Maybe another way to state the above is you don't like it when people waste your time, right? Like metioned above, act if each post, each response posted in the thread was being billed to you @ $100- $250 EACH.
One more thing, As a general rule those persons who are "advanced" posters/modders, etc who really "know" the In's and Out's will not bother to help much (if at all) if it does take multiple posts to drag out of you the info a piece at a time...
Putting yourself in the shoes of a 'advanced" modder /poster... Keeping in mind you only have so much time in the day.. Say there are threads in which the OP has provided the info asked for below... and then there are threads/posts in which the poster does not. Which one are you going to respond to?
Say there is a thread entitled "HELP ME !!!".... vs one in which the poster gives it a name such as "R3443U5 MMA_UCP needed" (The MMA_UCP is the menu file)
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The above being said:
Think how many times you've searched for info, spent alot of time not finding ANYTHING. :confused: Or say you found what you thought was some "really" good info... Only to find out later that the info did NOT apply to the model you thought it did.(because someone changed their "sig".) :furious: Or you wasted a bunch of time sorting thru posts /threads that pertained to "other" models.:fryingpan: Or even worse you read thru some posts that did pertain to another model (and it was not clearly stated).... and you did a procedure that "bricked" your phone!:bricked: :banghead:
Here's the ideas... They only take a few seconds to do.
Idea# 1: Very simply when you start out a post , post something like the below in the UPPER LEFT hand corner in BOLD print in the BODY of the post itself!!!!, and then go into describing "the problem" you are having.
R479_V3T_0A.30_bootloader_ROGERS_CANADA - if you have a "Rogers V3T"
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_bootloader_T-MOBILE_USA - if you have a T-Mo USA V3T
You could also shorten it to something like
R479_V3T_0A.30_ROGERS_CANADA
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_T-MOBILE_USA
(After posting the above in the UPPER LEFT hand corner, Space down a little-like your writing a (gasp!!!) letter, and THEN go into the problem you're having.....)
Simple, eh? -
Doing the above makes it clear "which" provider you're on, which model phone you have, which firmware the phone is running, and which bootloader the unit is running....
Stating this info upfront, in the BODY of your post greatly reduces confusion....
Note that you may want to post the FLEX ID STRING as well..., but the main thing to know is the firmware and bootloader the phone is running.
You could also post the firmware AND flex ID strings- making a COPY and PASTE TEXT file so you don't have to type it in when "creating" a new thread in which you are asking for help:
R3443U5_G_0E_C8.0DR
GSVSLQADGTMB01NA013
Bootloader: 0A.52
Provider: T-Mobile-USA
Model V3T
Why is the Provider/Flex ID needed/ Part of the world the phone is being used in important?... Well some fixes may be provider and/or flex specific. T-Mo for example being WORLD-WIDE...
Note: When running a non-stock , or custom "flex" it's a good idea to post the ID strings as well. Make it clear if you're trying to use a phone from say Rogers, on T-Mo-USA.
Bootloader=is like the BIOS on your PC ... and as you know if you flash the wrong "bios", your PC isn't going to start...
Firmware= being like the core OS on your PC, the flex like configuration files/software you may install.
Flex=A set of files that toggle ON, or OFF functions embedded within the firmware. The Flex also containing "games", apps..
Idea#2: When referring to your phone in a post, instead of referring to it as "my phone" refer to it by the firmware prefix number!!! Example.. say "my R3443U5"..Or "my R479" instead of "my phone".
#3:When creating a new thread... use a DESCRIPTIVE THREAD TITLE !!!.
(NOTE: First SEARCH to see if there's already a ongoing thread/ check the GUIDES before creating a new thread.)
As a example... don't use a thread title like "I don't suppose...", Or "Help Me" when asking questions.
Use a thread title that is reflective of the contents of the thread, and references the model number via the firmware ID string as it "confirms" which model you have for sure!!!
Example: R3443U5 MMA_UCP needed.... instead of MMA_UCP needed.
It will not only increase the odds of you getting help faster, but will also help others later on.
Some reasons on why to use a descriptive thread title, How it helps everyone.
http://www.webdeveloper.com/forum/showthread.php?t=68822
Below is about "cars:...(Read section 2 on Ambiguous Thread Titles)
http://www.allfordmustangs.com/forums/rules.php
More examples: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=use+a+descriptive+thread+title
#4: On software problems....
State what OS (Operating System) you're using, what SP (Service Pack) level you're at. Most of these programs require you to be running running Windows.. XP SP2... also note how "old" your OS install is... Make mention if you're the type that installs, and un-installs" programs each time the wind changes direction!!!.... OR you're the type that once everything is up and running you make sure it stays that way. (Installing /Un-installing stuff "breaks" things...)
#5: When talking about a MP /flex/firmware... that you may have installed on your phone, OR has allowed you to "recover" from a "bad" flash, a bad edit of some sort... POST a link to the files you used !!!, along with any pertinent info (I.E: any details that would help someone else) ..
Doing the above will save everyone alot of time. :cheers:
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WHY in the BODY of the post itself?:
1: Doing so makes ALL posts, suggestions part of the permanent record, ties the "fix" to the model, which saves everyone alot of time.
Here's just one example on "why" to take a extra 3.2 seconds when you ask for help posting those pesky firmware ID strings...
Say someone has posted the info only in their "sig" and changes that sig later on... If that happens all the posts, the time spent by all the posters has been greatly decreased in value to ZERO (pretty much worthless) since the "fix" to the problem isn't tied to that model being talked about anymore.
While someone reading thru a thread "might" know what's being talked about due to clues on a "current" subject (thread of the day/week) Someone several months down the road for example "if" they find the thread at all is going to be mighty confused.
(Ditto if the info hasn't been posted at all in the thread... The thread is pretty much worthless.)
Why bother? -Hey a phone is a phone man!:
1: "Fixes", suggestions, tips are tied closely to firmware prefix/bootloader of "the phone" you are talking about!!! Posting the info increases the chances of YOU getting the right advice the first go around, and greatly reduces the amount of wasted time by persons trying to help you.
2: There may be several models being called by the same name... (see V3t, V3R examples below) Most of these phones within a "family range" are the SAME hardware wise, but the firmware is made purposely different from provider to provider.
3: If you say V3T to me for example I'm going to assume you're talking about a R3443U5, as that is what I have... On the flip side persons with the R479 V3T will be coming from that angle... Totally different phone people... Major problems if you happen for example to use the WRONG firmware! If you use R479 firmware on a R3443U5 you are going to regret doing so!
Hey I have the info in my "sig" already, I don't see the need to take a extra 3.2 seconds when creating a thread to copy and paste the info from my "sig" into the "body" of a post:
That's great but on some boards:
1: The "sig" only appears once per page.
2: Some people toogle OFF sigs, so your sig may not appear at all.
3: Some people use a "image" (picture) for there "sig"..
(search engines don't see the text in a "pic", and if the picture is swapped out later... all posts, fixes, suggestions, and time of those that have taken the time to help is greatly de-valued.)
4: The "sig" may be stripped out when the info is archived.
5: Some search engines may not "see" the sig if someone is running a search.
6: If sig is changed, that may screw someone up. On some boards when you change your "sig" it is a global change meaning it spans ALL posts you've made. If that happens while the OP may have gotten the info "they" needed, the thread and all the time spent by the various posters is pretty much useless now. I can't count the number of times I've been "reading" info and someone had the info in their "sig", has gotten a new phone and the info no longer matches up.
( This applies to other equipment as well, someone posts a "fix" to a problem on a "laptop" for example, then gets a new laptop, then changes their "sig".)
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To "find-out" for sure, to VERIFY and CONFIRM what series model phone you may have is VERY simple:
Note that the flashes (firmware), and the procedures are model specific!!!!! and Motorola, the providers may "name" phones running different firmware with the SAME name!!
Here's a example of phones with the "same" name, and why you need to take a minute or two and preform the below checks before doing anything:
(2) versions of the V3T.
R479_V3T_0A.30_bootloader_ROGERS_CANADA
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_bootloader_T-MOBILE_USA
Note also there are (2) versions of the V3R as well, these V3R's being totally different hardware wise....
R4515_V3R=Cingular
R3443U2_V3(r)=T-Mobile MyFaves "V3"
The above are just two examples...
Step 1:
Power down phone, press and HOLD down the * and # keys, while hitting the POWER button...
Doing so puts your phone in "bootloader mode", and will give you the current firmware and bootloader info.
(In case the below image goes stale the info will appear in the following format:)
Boot Loader
0A.52.
SW Version:
R3443U5_G_0E.C
8.0DR
OK to Program
USB
Transfer Mode
http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/4065/dscf5459et2.jpg
WRITE that info down in- Putting it in COPY and PASTE file.-Mark it "READ-ONLY".
(small text file you can COPY and PASTE the info from when needed.
Step 2:
When phone is powered UP, from the keypad press *#9999# and a image should appear on the screen giving you the firmware + flex info. Add that you your cut and paste file...
(Tip you may want to save that info in a read-only file, incase you need to go back to STOCK-store in safe place- You may also want to pull the battery, look under the battery, make note of the id strings there to see what "stock" firmware the phone shipped with... Before doing anything source a backup copy of that firmware/flex(mp) so you can go back to "stock" if needed.)
http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/6857/r3443u5firmwareflexinfoqq6.png
Note some firmwares will may not display the above image. You may be able to find the info under :
Menu>settings>Phone Status>Other Info=
And you can also use a program called TTC (Triplets Tools Compilation v1.2) to get the above info if the provider is "hiding" it from you: http://www.modmymoto.com/guides/crsd.php
It may be in the download section here. If not Google it, or get it here: http://www.motox.info/showthread.php?t=1297
Addtionally under the battery should be a label with the firmware the phone shipped with.
Once you get the above info, make a txt file that you can cut and paste the
firmware prefix+ bootloader version into the BODY of your post, preferably in the UPPER left hand corner in BOLD print.
Prefix meaning the first set of numbers in ... for a T-Mobile V3T as a example, you would want to list it like this:
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_bootloader_T-MOBILE_USA
Or this:
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_T-MOBILE_USA
Keep in mind there are people from all over the world on these boards and in some cases knowing the PROVIDER \what part of the world you are in will prove to be useful as some issues /fixes are provider specific. Make note for example if you are using a phone from another market... (I.E. A phone from the UK for example being used in China, or whatever.) Some providers "ADD" stuff to the firmware of the phone, without that "stuff" your phone won't work correctly.
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RANDOM TIPS
WARNING: BEFORE MODDING YOUR PHONE... source a "STOCK" Monster Pack/firmware/flex so you can put your phone back to STOCK if needed.
You can use Flash & Backup 3+++ (the FULL VERSION) to make a backup copy..
Note that the trial version of F&B does NOT backup CODE GROUP, which is the flex.
(It has been reported that F&B can be used to flash though- )
Here's a link to the loader and profiles you will need when doing a R3443U5 V3t, R3443U2 V3(r) as sold by T-Mobile USA.
http://www.modmymoto.com/forums/showpost.php?p=199437&postcount=11
ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO HAVE A FULLY CHARGED BATTERY WHEN FLASHING (or maybe (2)!...
If you get into a "bad-flash" situation..I.E the phone is acting dead, or you're stuck at the bootloader screen the phone will NOT CHARGE the battery, NOR will you be able to flash!!!!! ...
If that happens to you, you have 3 choices:
1: Go to a local cellphone kisok, ask them to charge it- Good luck on explaining "why" you need them to charge it though!!!
2: Find a friend, swap/charge batteries...
3: Buy a desktop charger- (hint-Ebay).. While you're at it buy a extra battery since they're cheap... Buy OEM though, and ask about the production date of the battery and ask the seller if the batteries are "hot" (charged) since li-ion batteries don't like being in a discharged state for long periods of time.
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First of all, my apologies for the lengthy info that follows. I am just trying to drive home the reasons on "WHY" the info is asked to be posted.
Newbie (new to the scene) , Or Pro Modder... it is VERY important that you post the ID strings/info asked for in the BODY of the FIRST post when "starting" a thread.
(Ditto if you post in in a existing thread)
BTW.. if you're "giving" advice it's helpful to mention "what" unit the tips "apply" to via those ID strings, instead of the "generic" model number as Motorola will have several units called by the same "name", but they will have different firmware revisions- affecting which procedures /files can be safely used!!!. When "giving" advice, post the id strings in the body of your post.:thumbsup:
BTW, in case you're "wondering"...
1: The info asked for is important because it "ties" all the posts, all the suggestions, tips, info, how-to's, files, or links to files or info PERMANENTLY to the model /firmware revision number of the unit being talked about, and the "problem".
2: Posting the info takes all of about 3.2 seconds "extra" or less when "creating" a thread asking for "help"... And all of .5 seconds when "talking" about "your phone" in other posts/threads.
It's not hard to do...The basic procedure being to COPY and PASTE the info in the BODY of the FIRST post in the thread.. UPPER LEFT HAND CORNER (in BOLD print), away from the body of your question so it "stands-out", instead of being buried within the body of your post...
UPPER LEFT HAND SIDE, in BOLD... So it's in the SAME place from thread to thread, post to post...
3: 3rd thing to do is when "talking" about "your phone".... Refer to your phone by it's firmware prefix ID strings, instead of calling it "my phone" this, or "my phone" that. :fryingpan:
Doing this greatly reduces the amount of time, confusion in threads. Additionally, referring to your phone by it's ID strings when giving advice also goes a long ways towards reducing the chance of the wrong procedures being used by someone. I can't count the number of times over the years I've run across what would have been some really "good" info, saw some really good posts- and the posters didn't post their phones ID strings, referred to their phone while talking about it as "my phone", instead of referring to it by the phones firmware prefix ID strings. Big problems :shots: arise if say for example the person had the info in their "sig", and that "sig" is changed later.:furious:
In short act like you were contacting tech support- That you are allowed (1) Free post , (1) response by the "tech" who is trying to help you fix your problem... and that any additional posts made by you, or by others is being billed to you at $100-$250+ a pop!
FYI: Posting the asked for info is important as Motorola usually has several "different" versions of units being marketed called the same name... but under the hood they are different!!!!...
Motorola sells phones all over the world... for example Rogers and T-Mo are both selling a unit they "call" a V3T using different firmware /bootloaders.. Ditto on the V3R's... different versions being sold, different phone, firmware, etc-but being called by the same name.
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Who doesn't post the info?
Two groups, those that don't know how to find out the info, and the second group thinking it's not needed, since after all a phone is a phone is a phone, all V3T's use the same firmware /boot loader, right? (wrong)
The bulk of newbies don't post the info because the don't know "how" to ID their phones correctly.
(Info on how to verify the phones firmware ID strings so the proper files/procedures are used are below- It takes only a few seconds- Does not require ANY tools.)
The second group that do know how to ID their phone not posting the info as they care nothing of the info in a thread "helping" someone else that may be running a search, or may run across the info later on and refuses or balks about posting the info when asked because they only are only wanting a answer to "their" question.... they could care less if 6 months down the road if the info in the thread could help someone else. (heck 6-days for that matter!)
This type of poster being called the ME-ME-ME type poster...
(This type of poster using the "excuse" that taking a extra few seconds to post their phones ID strings, what provider they are on is too much "trouble". This type of poster may have the info in his sign, and could care less if later he changes his sig causing all the tips, suggestions to no longer be "linked" to that firmware/model ID number..)
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Don't be a ME-ME-ME type poster.... Think "Two-way-Street: when posting.
The Two-Way-Street poster posts in a format that gives the asked for info "upfront", posts it in the BODY of the first post in a thread he/she has created, in addition to his "sig" if he has it posted there because the "sig" on most boards is "changeable"-it being a global change across all posts if changed. A two-way-street type poster also refers to "his phone" by the firmware ID, instead of referring to it as "my phone" this, or "my phone" that.
For the V3T series you'd refer to your phone as my R3443U5, or my R479.... As you can see this is not allot of "extra" typing...
Contents
How to:
1: Save yourself alot of grief, plus save everyone alot of time.:cheers:
2: Find out (for sure) and CONFIRM which model phone you have BEFORE doing anything to it so you don't "brick-it":bricked:
3: Provide info that will GREATLY reduce confusion in threads, GREATLY increase the odds of YOU getting the CORRECT INFO, the CORRECT answer to "your" problem FAST!!!...
4: Post in a format that ties permanently all the posts to the model /problem /fix /files used, which will help those searching later on...
5: Post in a manner that "respects" other posters's "time".
(I.E. It should NOT take multiple posts to find out the below info. Info that BTW will help to CONFIRM the CORRECT files, procedures for your phone...)
Intro:
Ok,... to lay some ground work as to "why"??? all the below is important try to get into the mindset when posting to "think" two-way street.
"Two-way-Street" means you're trying to of course get a "fix" for "your" problem... but at the same time give much needed info that will help those trying to help YOU, plus may help persons "later on" doing a "search".
(Keep in mind that someone "later" on could be YOU doing a search and as a general rule if needed info isn't in the BODY of a post most Search engines can't see it you know!!!...
Additonally be aware that Search engines can't read "sigs" that contain images, Nor "sigs" themselves last time I checked either so be aware of that if you are relying on your "sig" to convey the info talked about below!)
Not doing the below is like walking into a auto parts store (or shop) demanding a water pump for a "car" (or tech advice),.. REFUSING to tell the tech or parts guy which "model" you have... and then complaining that you got the wrong parts!:confused: (Or wrong tech advice...)
Try this.. go asking around for parts, or tech advice, but REFUSING to tell the parts guy, or tech the year, model, option package on the car and see if you get the right parts, OR tech advice!
Better yet BUY about $1,000 - $5,000 or $10,000 worth of non-returnable parts!!!... Refusing to tell the parts guy what they are for...:madcaveman:
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While Tech Support is FREE here...Keep in mind we all only have so many hours in the day...
( Note: While the support provided here is "free", we all have only so many hours in the day so be aware of respecting other poster's time! )
Get into the mindset like you're "paying" for tech support, like EACH post was costing YOU $100-$250
If you were paying to get something fixed, or buying "non-returnable" parts you'd tell the tech or parts guy the model number, the firmware, and other details "up-front", right?...
Of course you would, because the faster a solution comes about the LESS money it's going to cost YOU...!)
If you were being "billed" $100- $250 for each "post" made by the tech(s), (OR you). You'd for sure want to provide the tech(s) the model number, the firmware the unit was running etc... What provider you're on etc... in your "first" post, and in any future posts- so there was NO confusion on what unit /model you had, what firmware it was running right?
Sure you would.
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In a nutshell I guess what I'm trying to say is you need to try to structure your posts to provide info "upfront" to people trying to help YOU.
It should not take multiple posts to find out the phone's ID string which "confirms" the model number, which files or procedures can be done on the phone safely, which network it is being used on.
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Something that goes a long way towards the above is when posting to get into the Two-way-Street mindset, instead of the Me-Me-Me mindset that alot of posters seem to have.
(Me-Me-Me mindset = I want the answer to "my" question NOW.. Balking, or refusing to provide basic background info.
Typical Me-Me-Me poster having to have the needed firmware ID strings, the provider info pulled out of them like pulling teeth out of a CROCODILE!!!)
Think "Two-way Street" when posting. If you do everyone benefits!...
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Keep in mind when posting that people from all over the world may read your post...
http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/2240/image001vt3.gif
Really sucks (if you're the one taking time out of your day) to spend alot of time trying to help someone out, then find out for example they had a R479 based Rogers V3T.. and all the info you hunted up for them pertained to the R3443U5 V3T as sold by T-Mobile USA.
Putting the shoe on the other foot for a minute, Imagine YOU are the one "helping", trying to help...
As you can imagine it's no fun spending 5-10-15 minutes (or more!!!) writing up a "personalized" how-to" to someone's problem only to find out later all that time was wasted....
Posting your phone's ID strings (upper left hand corner in BOLD please),what carrier the phone came from, is being used on, and referring to your phone when "talking" about it by the firmware prefix number GREATLY decreases such events. I've seen threads go on for quite a while on other boards, running into over 100+ posts or more with people trying to "help" the OP (original poster)... and then the OP finally posts back he's on xyz carrier, OR the model the OP "thought" he had finally comes to light that it is something totally different... and all the suggestions, the time put in by ALL those posters have been for nothing.
In addition to the info stated so far and that which follows, If you're "new" to posting, Or still can't understand "why" I'm stressing the above you might want to check out this short movie on "posting tips": (Warning... a little adult language)
http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/posting.php
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Maybe another way to state the above is you don't like it when people waste your time, right? Like metioned above, act if each post, each response posted in the thread was being billed to you @ $100- $250 EACH.
One more thing, As a general rule those persons who are "advanced" posters/modders, etc who really "know" the In's and Out's will not bother to help much (if at all) if it does take multiple posts to drag out of you the info a piece at a time...
Putting yourself in the shoes of a 'advanced" modder /poster... Keeping in mind you only have so much time in the day.. Say there are threads in which the OP has provided the info asked for below... and then there are threads/posts in which the poster does not. Which one are you going to respond to?
Say there is a thread entitled "HELP ME !!!".... vs one in which the poster gives it a name such as "R3443U5 MMA_UCP needed" (The MMA_UCP is the menu file)
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The above being said:
Think how many times you've searched for info, spent alot of time not finding ANYTHING. :confused: Or say you found what you thought was some "really" good info... Only to find out later that the info did NOT apply to the model you thought it did.(because someone changed their "sig".) :furious: Or you wasted a bunch of time sorting thru posts /threads that pertained to "other" models.:fryingpan: Or even worse you read thru some posts that did pertain to another model (and it was not clearly stated).... and you did a procedure that "bricked" your phone!:bricked: :banghead:
Here's the ideas... They only take a few seconds to do.
Idea# 1: Very simply when you start out a post , post something like the below in the UPPER LEFT hand corner in BOLD print in the BODY of the post itself!!!!, and then go into describing "the problem" you are having.
R479_V3T_0A.30_bootloader_ROGERS_CANADA - if you have a "Rogers V3T"
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_bootloader_T-MOBILE_USA - if you have a T-Mo USA V3T
You could also shorten it to something like
R479_V3T_0A.30_ROGERS_CANADA
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_T-MOBILE_USA
(After posting the above in the UPPER LEFT hand corner, Space down a little-like your writing a (gasp!!!) letter, and THEN go into the problem you're having.....)
Simple, eh? -
Doing the above makes it clear "which" provider you're on, which model phone you have, which firmware the phone is running, and which bootloader the unit is running....
Stating this info upfront, in the BODY of your post greatly reduces confusion....
Note that you may want to post the FLEX ID STRING as well..., but the main thing to know is the firmware and bootloader the phone is running.
You could also post the firmware AND flex ID strings- making a COPY and PASTE TEXT file so you don't have to type it in when "creating" a new thread in which you are asking for help:
R3443U5_G_0E_C8.0DR
GSVSLQADGTMB01NA013
Bootloader: 0A.52
Provider: T-Mobile-USA
Model V3T
Why is the Provider/Flex ID needed/ Part of the world the phone is being used in important?... Well some fixes may be provider and/or flex specific. T-Mo for example being WORLD-WIDE...
Note: When running a non-stock , or custom "flex" it's a good idea to post the ID strings as well. Make it clear if you're trying to use a phone from say Rogers, on T-Mo-USA.
Bootloader=is like the BIOS on your PC ... and as you know if you flash the wrong "bios", your PC isn't going to start...
Firmware= being like the core OS on your PC, the flex like configuration files/software you may install.
Flex=A set of files that toggle ON, or OFF functions embedded within the firmware. The Flex also containing "games", apps..
Idea#2: When referring to your phone in a post, instead of referring to it as "my phone" refer to it by the firmware prefix number!!! Example.. say "my R3443U5"..Or "my R479" instead of "my phone".
#3:When creating a new thread... use a DESCRIPTIVE THREAD TITLE !!!.
(NOTE: First SEARCH to see if there's already a ongoing thread/ check the GUIDES before creating a new thread.)
As a example... don't use a thread title like "I don't suppose...", Or "Help Me" when asking questions.
Use a thread title that is reflective of the contents of the thread, and references the model number via the firmware ID string as it "confirms" which model you have for sure!!!
Example: R3443U5 MMA_UCP needed.... instead of MMA_UCP needed.
It will not only increase the odds of you getting help faster, but will also help others later on.
Some reasons on why to use a descriptive thread title, How it helps everyone.
http://www.webdeveloper.com/forum/showthread.php?t=68822
Below is about "cars:...(Read section 2 on Ambiguous Thread Titles)
http://www.allfordmustangs.com/forums/rules.php
More examples: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=use+a+descriptive+thread+title
#4: On software problems....
State what OS (Operating System) you're using, what SP (Service Pack) level you're at. Most of these programs require you to be running running Windows.. XP SP2... also note how "old" your OS install is... Make mention if you're the type that installs, and un-installs" programs each time the wind changes direction!!!.... OR you're the type that once everything is up and running you make sure it stays that way. (Installing /Un-installing stuff "breaks" things...)
#5: When talking about a MP /flex/firmware... that you may have installed on your phone, OR has allowed you to "recover" from a "bad" flash, a bad edit of some sort... POST a link to the files you used !!!, along with any pertinent info (I.E: any details that would help someone else) ..
Doing the above will save everyone alot of time. :cheers:
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WHY in the BODY of the post itself?:
1: Doing so makes ALL posts, suggestions part of the permanent record, ties the "fix" to the model, which saves everyone alot of time.
Here's just one example on "why" to take a extra 3.2 seconds when you ask for help posting those pesky firmware ID strings...
Say someone has posted the info only in their "sig" and changes that sig later on... If that happens all the posts, the time spent by all the posters has been greatly decreased in value to ZERO (pretty much worthless) since the "fix" to the problem isn't tied to that model being talked about anymore.
While someone reading thru a thread "might" know what's being talked about due to clues on a "current" subject (thread of the day/week) Someone several months down the road for example "if" they find the thread at all is going to be mighty confused.
(Ditto if the info hasn't been posted at all in the thread... The thread is pretty much worthless.)
Why bother? -Hey a phone is a phone man!:
1: "Fixes", suggestions, tips are tied closely to firmware prefix/bootloader of "the phone" you are talking about!!! Posting the info increases the chances of YOU getting the right advice the first go around, and greatly reduces the amount of wasted time by persons trying to help you.
2: There may be several models being called by the same name... (see V3t, V3R examples below) Most of these phones within a "family range" are the SAME hardware wise, but the firmware is made purposely different from provider to provider.
3: If you say V3T to me for example I'm going to assume you're talking about a R3443U5, as that is what I have... On the flip side persons with the R479 V3T will be coming from that angle... Totally different phone people... Major problems if you happen for example to use the WRONG firmware! If you use R479 firmware on a R3443U5 you are going to regret doing so!
Hey I have the info in my "sig" already, I don't see the need to take a extra 3.2 seconds when creating a thread to copy and paste the info from my "sig" into the "body" of a post:
That's great but on some boards:
1: The "sig" only appears once per page.
2: Some people toogle OFF sigs, so your sig may not appear at all.
3: Some people use a "image" (picture) for there "sig"..
(search engines don't see the text in a "pic", and if the picture is swapped out later... all posts, fixes, suggestions, and time of those that have taken the time to help is greatly de-valued.)
4: The "sig" may be stripped out when the info is archived.
5: Some search engines may not "see" the sig if someone is running a search.
6: If sig is changed, that may screw someone up. On some boards when you change your "sig" it is a global change meaning it spans ALL posts you've made. If that happens while the OP may have gotten the info "they" needed, the thread and all the time spent by the various posters is pretty much useless now. I can't count the number of times I've been "reading" info and someone had the info in their "sig", has gotten a new phone and the info no longer matches up.
( This applies to other equipment as well, someone posts a "fix" to a problem on a "laptop" for example, then gets a new laptop, then changes their "sig".)
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To "find-out" for sure, to VERIFY and CONFIRM what series model phone you may have is VERY simple:
Note that the flashes (firmware), and the procedures are model specific!!!!! and Motorola, the providers may "name" phones running different firmware with the SAME name!!
Here's a example of phones with the "same" name, and why you need to take a minute or two and preform the below checks before doing anything:
(2) versions of the V3T.
R479_V3T_0A.30_bootloader_ROGERS_CANADA
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_bootloader_T-MOBILE_USA
Note also there are (2) versions of the V3R as well, these V3R's being totally different hardware wise....
R4515_V3R=Cingular
R3443U2_V3(r)=T-Mobile MyFaves "V3"
The above are just two examples...
Step 1:
Power down phone, press and HOLD down the * and # keys, while hitting the POWER button...
Doing so puts your phone in "bootloader mode", and will give you the current firmware and bootloader info.
(In case the below image goes stale the info will appear in the following format:)
Boot Loader
0A.52.
SW Version:
R3443U5_G_0E.C
8.0DR
OK to Program
USB
Transfer Mode
http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/4065/dscf5459et2.jpg
WRITE that info down in- Putting it in COPY and PASTE file.-Mark it "READ-ONLY".
(small text file you can COPY and PASTE the info from when needed.
Step 2:
When phone is powered UP, from the keypad press *#9999# and a image should appear on the screen giving you the firmware + flex info. Add that you your cut and paste file...
(Tip you may want to save that info in a read-only file, incase you need to go back to STOCK-store in safe place- You may also want to pull the battery, look under the battery, make note of the id strings there to see what "stock" firmware the phone shipped with... Before doing anything source a backup copy of that firmware/flex(mp) so you can go back to "stock" if needed.)
http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/6857/r3443u5firmwareflexinfoqq6.png
Note some firmwares will may not display the above image. You may be able to find the info under :
Menu>settings>Phone Status>Other Info=
And you can also use a program called TTC (Triplets Tools Compilation v1.2) to get the above info if the provider is "hiding" it from you: http://www.modmymoto.com/guides/crsd.php
It may be in the download section here. If not Google it, or get it here: http://www.motox.info/showthread.php?t=1297
Addtionally under the battery should be a label with the firmware the phone shipped with.
Once you get the above info, make a txt file that you can cut and paste the
firmware prefix+ bootloader version into the BODY of your post, preferably in the UPPER left hand corner in BOLD print.
Prefix meaning the first set of numbers in ... for a T-Mobile V3T as a example, you would want to list it like this:
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_bootloader_T-MOBILE_USA
Or this:
R3443U5_V3T_0A.52_T-MOBILE_USA
Keep in mind there are people from all over the world on these boards and in some cases knowing the PROVIDER \what part of the world you are in will prove to be useful as some issues /fixes are provider specific. Make note for example if you are using a phone from another market... (I.E. A phone from the UK for example being used in China, or whatever.) Some providers "ADD" stuff to the firmware of the phone, without that "stuff" your phone won't work correctly.
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RANDOM TIPS
WARNING: BEFORE MODDING YOUR PHONE... source a "STOCK" Monster Pack/firmware/flex so you can put your phone back to STOCK if needed.
You can use Flash & Backup 3+++ (the FULL VERSION) to make a backup copy..
Note that the trial version of F&B does NOT backup CODE GROUP, which is the flex.
(It has been reported that F&B can be used to flash though- )
Here's a link to the loader and profiles you will need when doing a R3443U5 V3t, R3443U2 V3(r) as sold by T-Mobile USA.
http://www.modmymoto.com/forums/showpost.php?p=199437&postcount=11
ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO HAVE A FULLY CHARGED BATTERY WHEN FLASHING (or maybe (2)!...
If you get into a "bad-flash" situation..I.E the phone is acting dead, or you're stuck at the bootloader screen the phone will NOT CHARGE the battery, NOR will you be able to flash!!!!! ...
If that happens to you, you have 3 choices:
1: Go to a local cellphone kisok, ask them to charge it- Good luck on explaining "why" you need them to charge it though!!!
2: Find a friend, swap/charge batteries...
3: Buy a desktop charger- (hint-Ebay).. While you're at it buy a extra battery since they're cheap... Buy OEM though, and ask about the production date of the battery and ask the seller if the batteries are "hot" (charged) since li-ion batteries don't like being in a discharged state for long periods of time.
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