N900 The Perfect Setup

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{{ambox
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|type=notice
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|text=This is a wiki! So the title of this page represents the personal notion of one or a few editors. It's not "officially supported" info or advice}}
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=Introduction=
=Introduction=
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This page serves the purpose of assembling a complete and current howto-guide for the perfect N900 setup.  
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Since the [[N900]] has been released many developments have been made by the community. This page is to provide a generic guide to getting started with good foundations.
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The initial information here is based on my personal experience and the rich trove of experience which is talk.maemo.org.
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This page will mainly link all the useful bits of the wiki and other useful information together.
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Please keep this page alive by adding your improvements and keeping it up to date as Maemo evolves.
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{{warning}} '''Disclaimer:''' ''This page is a work in progress and will probably never be finished. Some of the procedures might prove to be quite risky. There's no guarantee that your phone won't start to eat your cat. You do everything at your own risk.''
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=Hardware=
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= Recommended hardware =
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==Hardware Accessories==
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* A Nokia N900, obviously
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Information on all recommended hardware accessories is on the [[N900 Accessories]] page.
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* SanDisk Ultra 32GB Class 10 / UHS-1 SDHC Card (SU32-G)
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* PolarCell 1520 mAh battery
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* Standalone battery charger
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* USB A-A adapter
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* (Linux box)
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=== Hardware Specifications ===
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==Hardware Specifications==
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NAND Layout
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  '''dev'''    '''size'''  '''erasesize'''  '''name'''
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Information on the specs can be found on the [[N900 Hardware Subsystems]] page.
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  mtd0: 00020000 00020000 "bootloader"
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  mtd1: 00060000 00020000 "config"
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  mtd2: 00040000 00020000 "log"
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  mtd3: 00200000 00020000 "kernel"
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  mtd4: 00200000 00020000 "initfs"
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  mtd5: 0fb40000 00020000 "rootfs"
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eMMC Partition Layout
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==Recommended Hardware Modifications==
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  '''dev'''        '''size'''      '''fs'''    '''mountpoint'''
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===USB Port===
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  mmcblk0p1  27648MiB  vfat  /home/user/MyDocs
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One of the most common issues with the [[N900]] is the surface mounted USB port.
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  mmcblk0p2    2048MiB  ext2  /home
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If you are not careful with it, the port can be ripped from the PCB.
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  mmcblk0p3    768MiB  swap
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Due to the design of the port if this occurs, it can be very difficult to repair successfully.
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[http://natisbad.org/N900/n900-commented-hardware-specs.html Detailed specs]
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Therefore it is highly recommend to reinforce your USB port by soldering the casing of the USB to the PCB. Information on this is covered in great extent on talk.maemo.org
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=65568 N900 battery options]
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=75920 talk.maemo.org Fixing USB Thread]
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=== Hardware modifications ===
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Another common modification is to remove the locking pins on all your microUSB cable connectors. This can be done by filing them down carefully with a small file.
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/* TODO: USB pre-broken fix */
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The latter is important, especially if you don't feel confident in taking your N900 apart to reinforce the port.
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====Inductive Charging====
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Bridging the gap between a non-permanent hardware mod and an accessory the universal Qi inductive charging add-on pads have been installed both over and under the stock and Mugen battery covers, the semi-permanent installation into the microUSB port reduces dangerous cable leverage and USB port wear to nearly zero and the nearly flush USB port plug also protects the USB port from foreign object damage making the inductive charging add-on even more important to N900 owners than most users.  The USB port can be easily unplugged if needed for use in USB host, 3G modem, and mass storage modes.
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?p=1431701#post1431701 talk.maemo.org Qi Inductive Charging Universal Add-On Installation]
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=75920]
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====Magnetic Charge Port Adapter====
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=79878]
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There are several magnetic adapters available to both plug the USB port and also ensure a safe break-away should the N900 be dropped. No leverage to snap off your N900's fragile USB port from the PCB.
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= Initial setup =
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In testing the four or five pin USB adapters permit a data connection but if you do any metal work with steel it will attract magnetic particles as happened in testing, this adapter experienced a melt-down and nearly a fire one evening after falling to the floor in a workspace.
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[http://wiki.maemo.org/Updating_the_tablet_firmware#N900 Everything about Firmware Flashing]
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Another tested magnetic adapter has a coaxial positive and negative connections(pin and surrounding ring) It has the data pins shorted to put the N900 into fast charge mode.  while there is the hazard of magnetic particles connecting the two poles are 2mm apart and it is easier to see any foreign objects as the cable side of the connector has a blue LED allowing it to also be found easily in a dark room.  This adapter also inserted fully and had a rubber washer to buffer any drops; combined with an Otter case the adapter is nearly flush with the Otterbox armor.  This adapter requires more than just fingernails to remove in testing, but a keychain pocket knife screwdriver or nail file was sufficient to safely remove it.
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Download flasher from the repositories
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==File System==
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/* TODO: Use open source flasher */
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[[N900 filesystem|File System information]]
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Download the firmware flasher:
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=Firmware=
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[http://skeiron.org/tablets-dev/maemo-dev-env-downloads/ Flasher & SDK Downloads]
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Download the latest official Nokia Firmware Images for your N900:
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==Initial Firmware Setup==
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[http://skeiron.org/tablets-dev/nokia_N900/ Firmware Image Downloads]
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  RX-51_2009SE_10.2010.13-2.VANILLA_PR_EMMC_MR0_ARM.bin
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  md5sum: 488809ff96a0a05479d692e9f77aeb4f
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  RX-51_2009SE_20.2010.36-2_PR_COMBINED_MR0_ARM.bin
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  md5sum: b9f8690318a3be61767826d15b8c1784
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== Flashing the device ==
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So you have your [[N900]]
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The following flashing procedure has proven the most stable to me:
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The first step especially if it's used is to flash the firmware.
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This can be used to clean off any unstable software and make a clean start.
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{{warning}}Always use a fully charged battery!
 
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* Turn your device off, disconnect USB
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It's recommended to download the latest Nokia firmware images for your region.
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* (As root) flash the FIASCO firmware image:
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The latest versions are highlighted.
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  flasher-3.5 -F RX-51_2009SE_20.2010.36-2_PR_COMBINED_MR0_ARM.bin -f
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* When you get "No suitable USB device found" connect your N900 through USB.
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* Wait for the flashing to finish.
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{{warning}} Don't reboot
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* Flash original eMMC image:
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[[Updating the tablet firmware#N900|Firmware Flashing]]
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  flasher-3.5 -F RX-51_2009SE_20.2010.36-2_PR_COMBINED_MR0_ARM.bin -f
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* Wait for the flashing to finish.
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* Reboot the device by _reinserting_ the battery
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Upon first login, enter your locale settings (Timezone, local time, etc.).
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==Cloning a New N900 with BackupMenu Backup Files==
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Requires a good USB cable, currently fastest path to flash a new or used N900 and install the required kernel and backupmenu from the repos to make a clone of your old or broken N900. Until the steps to safely use Fiasco Flasher to flash a kernel and file system including /opt from backupmenu files the instructions below are the fastest way to recover your old configuration on a new device.
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Run latest official Nokia SSU (upgrades your device firmware to V1.3.1) by launching App manager / Update from the applications menu.
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http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=100595
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== Getting root access ==
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==Highly Recommended Further Setup==
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[http://wiki.maemo.org/Root_access 1001 ways of becoming root]
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* Add the Extras-Testing repository to the Hildon Application Managers catalog
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===Importance of CSSU===
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  name: Maemo extras-testing
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  uri: deb http://skeiron.org/repo/repository.maemo.org/extras-testing/ fremantle free non-free
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  dist: fremantle
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  components: free non-free
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* Add the Extras-Devel repository as well
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If you have flashed your firmware as above, your [[N900]] will now be on the last major Nokia release (PR1.3). From here onwards the Maemo Community are providing vital security updates, fixing bugs and generally moving the device forward. This is known as CSSU or Community SSU.
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  name: Maemo extras-development
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  uri: http://extras-devel.merlin1991.at/ fremantle free non-free
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  dist: fremantle
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  components: free non-free
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* Disable OVI repository (conflicts with CSSU)
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It is recommended all users install [[CSSU]], of which there are two versions.
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* Wait for repository update to finish (Hildon Application Manager is slooow) and install 'rootsh' from the system section.
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More information on this can be found on the [[CSSU]] page.
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* To get remote access over the network (way more comfy) install SSH server by launching XTerminal from the application menu and running:
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==Recommended Further Setup==
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  sudo gainroot
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  apt-get install openssh
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You will be asked for your new root password.
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/*TODO: Change PW hash to enable passwords > 8 chars */
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* Finally launch xterm and run
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===Kernel Power===
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  ifconfig wlan0
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* Write down the IP address - from now on you can use the SSH client of your choice to connect to your favorite pocket computer - enjoy!
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[[Kernel Power]] is a community developed Kernel that provides addition features and fixes to the Kernel. [[Kernel Power]] also provides the ability to overclock the device with an additional package '''kernel-power-settings'''
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= Upgrade to CSSU-thumb =
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While overclocking is not recommended and has been known to reduce the lifetime of the device, the [Kernel Power] package on it's own is recommended and will not alter your device from the standard 250Mhz-600Mhz clock speed.
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[http://wiki.maemo.org/CSSU What's CSSU?]
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=84829 What's thumb2 ISA?]
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It provided important features like stable [[Smartreflex]] which will significantly increase battery life.
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{{info}} cssu-thumb contains a kernel based on kp51r1, therefore you automatically benefit from all kernel-power features (undervolting, overclocking, framebuffer, ...). See [http://wiki.maemo.org/Kernel_Power Kernel Power Wiki] and [http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=85665 Kernel Power 51r1 on tmo]
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Please see the [[Kernel Power]] page for more information on this.
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Please note Kernel Power page is heavily biased on overclocking and is provided for further reference only.
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== Repositories ==
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===Utilise the SD Card===
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Disable extras-testing - it will be replaced by its thump-compiled counterpart from the CSSU repository. Make sure Nokia and Maemo Extras repositories are enabled though.
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To avoid thumb-compiled binaries being overwritten by upgrades from non-thumb repositories use the following /etc/apt/preferences file
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The [[N900]] has a uSD card slot, it's good to use this as much as possible to reduce flash wear from the devices eMMC.
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  Package: *
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  Pin: release a=community-thumb
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  Pin-Priority: 700           
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  Package: *     
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  Pin: release a=Extras-devel-light
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  Pin-Priority: 500               
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  Package: *     
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  Pin: release l=Extras
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  Pin-Priority: 550   
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  Package: *     
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  Pin: release l=community-testing
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  Pin-Priority: 600
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== Remove unneeded software ==
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Many users setup there swap space(s) on the uSD card this frees up the I/O of the device.
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?s=bcad4cd2389b67dd0911decdebb4b503&t=82641 tmo thread]
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apt-get remove --purge hildon-theme-beta osso-chess-ui gnuchess osso-graphics-game-chess osso-lmarbles osso-graphics-game-lmarbles osso-sounds-game-chess maemoblocks ap-installer amazon-installer foreca-installer facebook-installer skype-installer dtg-installer tutorial-home-applet osso-tutorial-l10n-engb osso-tutorial-l10n-ptpt osso-tutorial-l10n-frca osso-tutorial-l10n-nlnl osso-tutorial-l10n-cscz osso-tutorial-l10n-itit osso-tutorial-l10n-eses osso-tutorial-l10n-svse osso-tutorial-l10n-frfr osso-tutorial-l10n-dede osso-tutorial-l10n-fifi osso-tutorial-l10n-nono osso-tutorial-l10n-esmx osso-tutorial-l10n-enus osso-tutorial-l10n-ruru osso-tutorial-l10n-mr0 osso-tutorial-l10n-plpl cherry osso-systemui-splashscreen sharing-service-flickr sharing-service-ovi chinese-font google-search-widget tutorial-home-applet osso-mahjong osso-graphics-game-mahjong osso-sounds-game-mahjong ovi-promotion-widget
+
There has been much discussion on this and applications written to help with this.
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== Installing CSSU-Thumb ==
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Further reading
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* Visit this link using your N900s web browser: http://maemo.merlin1991.at/cssu/community-thumb/community-thumb-fremantle.install and confirm the prompts displayed in HAM
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* Launch community SSU from applications menu.
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*[[Swap on microSD]]
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* Install the proposed updates.
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*[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=84296 talk.maemo.org DISCUSS SDCard Swap]
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= Essential software packages =
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===Swappolube===
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The following is a list of applications which (IMHO) constitute a reasonable base set
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Swappolube is a package to modify memory management.
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apt-get install <pkgname>
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Most users tweak this to suit their device and usage.
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{|
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If you're unsure where to start, the proposed settings are a good base.
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! align="left"| Package Name
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! Description
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! Votes
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|-
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|backupmenu
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|-
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|busybox-power
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|Required for encryption (s. below)
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|-
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|tracker-cfg
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|-
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|tracker-extractor-vorbis
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|-
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|gstreamer0.10-plugins-good-extra-formats
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|-
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|filebox
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|-
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|catoriseplus
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|mce-ledpattern
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|cssufeatures
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|cl-launcher
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|}
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Other recommendations include: xournal fm-boost fmradio recaller swappolube flashlight-applet cal-home-widget adflashblock-css
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More information can be found on the [[Swappolube]] page.
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== Install non-optified cryptsetup ==
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=Settings=
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  wget http://maemo.merlin1991.at/apt-mirror/extras-devel/pool/fremantle/free/c/cryptsetup/cryptsetup_1.0.4%2bsvn26-3_armel.deb
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  dpkg -i cryptsetup_1.0.4%2bsvn26-3_armel.deb
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  echo "cryptsetup hold" | dpkg --set-selections
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== Install & configure bootloader ==
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==Network Positioning==
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  apt-get install u-boot-flasher kernel-cssu-bootimg
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If you use the incorrect settings your device may be slow at getting a GPS fix.
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  ln -s /etc/bootmenu.d/20-Maemo5-kernel-cssu-2.6.28.10-cssu3.item /etc/default/bootmenu.item
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  u-boot-update-bootmenu
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== USB Host mode ==
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There is also a bug with maemo-security-certman, this has been fixed in CSSU.
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=85658 Host mode announcement]
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  wget http://atrey.karlin.mff.cuni.cz/~pali/usbmode/usbmode_1.0-3_armel.deb
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  dpkg -i usbmode_1.0-3_armel.deb
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-
* USB mode can be set through the status menu
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Make sure the latest version of your CSSU flavour is installed.  
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* To connect USB peripherals use a [http://www.cablechick.com.au/product_images/usb-adaptor-a-female-to-a.jpg USB A-to-A adapter]
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== Configure openmediaplayer ==
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Navigate to
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[http://wiki.maemo.org/Open_Media_Player OMP Wiki]
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* Get a thumb-compiled version of openmediaplayer [http://www69.zippyshare.com/v/23534616/file.html OMP-thumb download]
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: Settings > Location > Network Positioning
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dpkg -i openmediaplayer_20121220-1+thumb0_armel.deb
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* As [[root]], edit file:
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then check the Location server is
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:''/usr/share/dbus-1/services/com.nokia.mediaplayer.service''
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supl.nokia.com
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so the line:
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Exec=/usr/bin/mediaplayer
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...becomes:
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If Nokia's supl server doesn't give you functional AGPS (there have been reports that the Nokia supl server has been shut down) try Google's SUPL server.
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  Exec=/usr/bin/openmediaplayer
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  supl.google.com
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This will replace execution of '''MP''' binary with '''OMP''' one - without physically replacing files, so you can revert back to '''MP''' by reverting changes.
+
=Software=
-
* tracker-cfg
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==Repositories==
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/* TODO */
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-
== Faking Flash Player 12 ==
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Maemo software works in the same way as most Linux distributions', repositories provide a secure and easy method of supplying software to end-users.
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[http://talk.maemo.org/showpost.php?p=1276589&postcount=2219 Flash Player on tmo]
+
-
* Get [http://www.sendspace.pl/download/YTo0OntzOjc6ImRhdGVfaW4iO2k6MTM0Mzc4MTUxMTtzOjU6InRpdGxlIjtzOjA6IiI7czo5OiJmaWxlX25hbWUiO3M6MjQ6ImFkb2JlLWZsYXNocGxheWVyLTEwLmRlYiI7czo1OiJ0b2tlbiI7czoyMzoiY2MzM2I0MDcyZTgyM2VlMTU4MDkzOWIiO30dfASDF34vasd3245bvs flashplayer 10 binaries] for maemo.
+
Information about the different repositories can be found on the [[Extras]] page.
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apt-get remove --purge adobe-flashplayer
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==Getting Root==
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apt-get install hexedit
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dpkg -i adobe-flashplayer-10.deb
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hexedit /usr/lib/browser/plugins/libflashplayer.so
+
-
* Once in Hexedit, press CTRL+S and type in 31302e31 and press enter, the string you've just found need to be changed to 31322e31
+
[[Root access]]
-
* Now, press CTRL+S, type "y" and search for 31302c31 and change it to 31322c31
+
=Common Modifications=
-
* Press CTRL+S then "y" again.
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Please note these common modifications are here for reference.
-
* Close terminal and enjoy new faked v12.1.98.88 flash player
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If you are a complete beginner and do not understand you must be aware that you could damage parts of your filesystem if you mess up.
-
= Tweaks =
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==Purging Unnecessary Software==
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== Kernel Power Settings ==
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===Cherry===
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/* TODO: Rewrite this section using smartreflex */
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-
To enable overclocking (more horsepower) and undervolting (less power consumption) run the following commands
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With the PR 1.2 update Nokia introduced "My Nokia" an SMS subscription service on which you receive periodic texts from Nokia.
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kernel-config save stock
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This was automatically installed/subscribed on devices and was known to cause issues with devices sending and receiving unwanted SMS messages.
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kernel-config load ideal
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kernel-config default ideal
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To revert to stock settings run
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This package is one of the first to be removed by members of the community, for obvious reasons. It can be removed by:-
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kernel-config load stock
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kernel-config default stock
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== swappolube ==
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apt-get remove --purge cherry
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[http://wiki.maemo.org/Swappolube Config details]
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-
== cssu-features ==
 
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* Launch cssu-features from the applications menu
 
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* On first run choose "Fix config"
 
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* Launch cssu-features again
 
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* Configure to your [http://wiki.maemo.org/CSSU_Features_Configuration_Editor taste]
 
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== Theme customizer ==
+
====Further reading on My Nokia and cherry====
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* Set nokia-pure as default font
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-
== Disable Nokia Hands ==
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[[PR1.2 compulsory My Nokia subscription]]
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* Edit the file
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:''/etc/hildon-welcome.d/default.conf''
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-
[hildon-welcome]
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filename=Hands-v32-h264.avi
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* Comment out the last line or specify gstreamer compatible movie file
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-
= Backup your device =
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===Additional Unnecessary Software===
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* Don't backup unnecessary stuff, so
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The following is deemed safe. Run in a [[Terminal]] as [[Root]] to remove unnecessary software provided with the Nokia firmware.
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rm /var/cache/apt/archives/*
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* Reboot with keyboard open
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* Select default kernel
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* In backupmenu press 'b' to start backup
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* Press 'q' to backup both rootfs and optfs
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-
* Select 'p' twice to store backup on /home/user/MyDocs
+
-
* Wait for backup to finish
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* Connect USB to Linux box
+
-
* Press 'w' to export eMMC as mass storage device
+
-
* On your Linux box check 'dmesg' to identify device names (e.g. /dev/sdX), mount /dev/sdX1, switch to the mount point (e.g. /media/usb) and run
+
-
tar -cf /home/user/MyDocs_backup.tar
+
-
= Adjust eMMC partitioning =
+
  apt-get remove --purge hildon-theme-beta osso-chess-ui gnuchess osso-graphics-game-chess osso-lmarbles osso-graphics-game-lmarbles osso-sounds-game-chess maemoblocks ap-installer amazon-installer foreca-installer facebook-installer skype-installer dtg-installer tutorial-home-applet osso-tutorial-l10n-engb osso-tutorial-l10n-ptpt osso-tutorial-l10n-frca osso-tutorial-l10n-nlnl osso-tutorial-l10n-cscz osso-tutorial-l10n-itit osso-tutorial-l10n-eses osso-tutorial-l10n-svse osso-tutorial-l10n-frfr osso-tutorial-l10n-dede osso-tutorial-l10n-fifi osso-tutorial-l10n-nono osso-tutorial-l10n-esmx osso-tutorial-l10n-enus osso-tutorial-l10n-ruru osso-tutorial-l10n-mr0 osso-tutorial-l10n-plpl osso-systemui-splashscreen sharing-service-flickr sharing-service-ovi chinese-font google-search-widget tutorial-home-applet osso-mahjong osso-graphics-game-mahjong osso-sounds-game-mahjong ovi-promotion-widget
-
/* TODO: Evaluate better filesystems and possibly alignment */
+
-
* With eMMC still exported as mass storage device using backupmenu point your favorite partition manager to /dev/sdX
+
-
* Adjust partitions to your needs (align to MiB, not cylinders), for example
+
-
  '''dev'''        '''size'''      '''fs'''    '''mountpoint'''
+
-
  mmcblk0p1  24576MiB  vfat /home/user/MyDocs
+
-
  mmcblk0p2    5120MiB  ext2  /home
+
-
  mmcblk0p3    835MiB  swap
+
-
It's recommended to leave /dev/mmcblk0p1 as vfat for /home/user/MyDocs as it needs less tweaks to maemos mmc-scripts. For other options visit [http://wiki.maemo.org/Repartitioning_the_flash repartitioning the flash]
+
[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?s=bcad4cd2389b67dd0911decdebb4b503&t=82641 talk.maemo.org Safe to remove?]
-
= Disk Encryption =
+
==Disable Nokia Hands==
-
/* TODO: Verify that HW accel is being used */
+
There are three main methods to do this.
-
/* TODO: Use initrd in NAND and encrypt rootfs */
+
===Method 1===
 +
Rename the file
 +
: /opt/usr/share/hildon-welcome/media/Hands-v32-h264.avi
 +
to
 +
: /opt/usr/share/hildon-welcome/media/Hands-v32-h264.avi.disabled
-
[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=40154 Discussion on tmo]
+
===Method 2===
 +
Use a text editor to edit the file
 +
:''/etc/hildon-welcome.d/default.conf''
 +
Comment out the last line.
 +
: filename=Hands-v32-h264.avi
 +
===Method 3===
 +
Remove the hildon-welcome package, which included the bootvideo
-
== Preparing userland ==
+
Firstly gain root:
-
{{warning}} Don't reboot your device before having performed all steps described in this chapter or else you'll have to reflash your phone!
+
:''root''
 +
Then remove the package by issuing
 +
:''apt-get purge hildon-welcome''
-
* Make sure cryptsetup and busybox-power packages are installed to rootfs
+
==Faking Flash Player 12 for MicroB==
-
dpkg -L <pkgname>
+
[http://talk.maemo.org/showpost.php?p=1276589&postcount=2219 Post on talk.maemo.org]
-
* Get modified [https://gitorious.org/maemo5-encrypted-home rcS and rcS-late scripts] and copy them to your device
+
* Get [http://www.sendspace.pl/download/YTo0OntzOjc6ImRhdGVfaW4iO2k6MTM0Mzc4MTUxMTtzOjU6InRpdGxlIjtzOjA6IiI7czo5OiJmaWxlX25hbWUiO3M6MjQ6ImFkb2JlLWZsYXNocGxheWVyLTEwLmRlYiI7czo1OiJ0b2tlbiI7czoyMzoiY2MzM2I0MDcyZTgyM2VlMTU4MDkzOWIiO30dfASDF34vasd3245bvs flashplayer 10 binaries] for maemo.
-
scp rcS root@<n900-ip-addr>:/etc/init.d/
+
-
scp rcS-late root@<n900-ip-addr>:/etc/event.d/
+
-
* Edit the file
+
apt-get remove --purge adobe-flashplayer
-
:''/sbin/preinit''
+
apt-get install hexedit
-
and insert the command ''modprobe fbcon'' as the last line in function init_system() (just above the })
+
dpkg -i adobe-flashplayer-10.deb
 +
hexedit /usr/lib/browser/plugins/libflashplayer.so
-
* Get an [http://bazaar.launchpad.net/~pali/+junk/maemo_recovery-boot/view/head:/nokia-n900.map n900 keymap] and convert it (on your Linux box):
+
* Once in Hexedit, press CTRL+S and type in 31302e31 and press enter, the string you've just found need to be changed to 31322e31
-
loadkeys -b nokia-n900.map > nokia-n900.kmap
+
-
* Copy the keymap to your phone's root directory
+
* Now, press CTRL+S, type "y" and search for 31302c31 and change it to 31322c31
-
scp nokia-n900.kmap root@<n900-ip-addr>:/
+
-
* Create [http://wiki.maemo.org/Community_SSU/Features/ke-recv /etc/default/osso-mmc-blacklist.sh] and corresponding /etc/default/osso-mmc-blacklist containing devices which should not be mounted to MyDocs - /dev/dm-0 and /dev/dm-1)
+
* Press CTRL+S then "y" again.
-
Edit the files
+
* Close terminal (CTRL+X) and enjoy new faked v12.1.98.88 flash player
-
:''/usr/sbin/osso-usb-mass-storage-enable.sh'' and :''/usr/sbin/osso-usb-mass-storage-disable.sh''
+
-
and add the following lines at the beginning
+
-
case $1 in
+
-
  /dev/dm-*)
+
-
    set /dev/mmcblk0p1
+
-
    ;;
+
-
esac
+
-
 
+
-
== Move optfs to encrypted partition ==
+
-
* On your Linux box extract the :''optfs.tar'' file from the previously created MyDocs backup
+
-
  cd /tmp
+
-
  tar -xf ~/backups/MyDocs_backup.tar
+
-
 
+
-
* Boot your phone into boot manager and export eMMC to USB. On your linux box run the following commands to create an encrypted ext3 filesystem on mmcblk0p2
+
-
cryptsetup luksFormat /dev/sdX2      # Confirm by typing YES, specify a looong passphrase
+
-
cryptsetup luksOpen /dev/sdX2 n900
+
-
mkfs.ext3 /dev/mapper/n900
+
-
 
+
-
* Now you can restore your optfs backup to the encrypted partition
+
-
mount /dev/mapper/n900 /mnt
+
-
cd /mnt
+
-
tar -xf /tmp/systemBackups/optfs.tar
+
-
umount /mnt
+
-
cryptsetup luksClose n900
+
-
 
+
-
* Reboot your phone and enjoy the password prompt!
+
-
 
+
-
= SD card usage =
+
-
== Testing ==
+
-
== Alignment ==
+
-
== Swap on SD card ==
+
-
To avoid concurrent I/O access to swap and optfs (both mmcblk0), move swap to your SD card (mmcblk1)
+
-
* On your SD card create a swap partition /dev/mmcblk1pX of approx. 1.5GiB
+
-
* Edit /etc/event.d/rcS-late and change the line
+
-
/sbin/cryptsetup -d /dev/urandom create swapenc /dev/mmcblk0p3
+
-
 
+
-
to
+
-
 
+
-
/sbin/cryptsetup -d /dev/urandom create swapenc /dev/mmcblk1pX
+
-
 
+
-
 
+
-
=== More swap tweaks ===
+
-
/* TODO: Find current best practice for running swap on sd card */
+
-
* [http://wiki.maemo.org/Ereswap Fight swap fragmentation]
+
-
* [http://wiki.maemo.org/Swap_on_microSD#Using_microSD_partition_as_swap Swap on wiki]
+
-
 
+
-
= Miscellaneous =
+
-
== VoIP ==
+
-
=== Encrypted SIP ===
+
-
* linphone
+
-
 
+
-
== eMail ==
+
-
=== GPG support ===
+
-
* mutt
+
-
* claws
+
-
* patches for modest anyone?
+
-
 
+
-
== Camera ==
+
-
* pcam
+
-
* stock/cssu
+
-
* blessn900
+
-
* fcam
+
-
* hdr
+
-
* lowlight
+
== Watch 720p movies ==
== Watch 720p movies ==
-
[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=77695 HD movie guide]
+
[http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=77695 720p Thread - talk.maemo.org]
-
== Synchronization ==
+
==Customizing Maemo==
-
=== dpush ===
+
Customizing the appearance of Maemo
-
=== Certificates ===
+
-
=== Client configuration ===
+
-
== Battery calibration ==
+
[[Customizing Maemo]]
-
 
+
-
== Unbricking ==
+
-
=== Dead battery ===
+
-
 
+
-
= Additional information =
+
-
* [http://talk.maemo.org The one and only]
+
-
* [http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=88707 Repository Mirrors]
+
-
* [http://symbians60soft.blogspot.com Blog still posting some maemo news]
+
= Credits =
= Credits =
My thanks go to jebba, titan, pali, NIN101, MentalistTraceur, sixwheeledbeast, DocScrutinizer05, sEKI, kerio, freemangordon, qwazix, ShadowJK and everyone on #maemo
My thanks go to jebba, titan, pali, NIN101, MentalistTraceur, sixwheeledbeast, DocScrutinizer05, sEKI, kerio, freemangordon, qwazix, ShadowJK and everyone on #maemo
-
[[Category:Power users]]
+
=Wiki Update Info=
 +
:''Last Updated - sixwheeledbeast - 31 Jan 2013 21:41 UTC''
 +
 
 +
[[Category:Beginners]]
[[Category:N900]]
[[Category:N900]]

Latest revision as of 13:46, 28 January 2019

Image:Ambox_notice.png
 This is a wiki! So the title of this page represents the personal notion of one or a few editors. It's not "officially supported" info or advice

Contents

[edit] Introduction

Since the N900 has been released many developments have been made by the community. This page is to provide a generic guide to getting started with good foundations. This page will mainly link all the useful bits of the wiki and other useful information together.

[edit] Hardware

[edit] Hardware Accessories

Information on all recommended hardware accessories is on the N900 Accessories page.

[edit] Hardware Specifications

Information on the specs can be found on the N900 Hardware Subsystems page.

[edit] Recommended Hardware Modifications

[edit] USB Port

One of the most common issues with the N900 is the surface mounted USB port. If you are not careful with it, the port can be ripped from the PCB. Due to the design of the port if this occurs, it can be very difficult to repair successfully.

Therefore it is highly recommend to reinforce your USB port by soldering the casing of the USB to the PCB. Information on this is covered in great extent on talk.maemo.org

talk.maemo.org Fixing USB Thread

Another common modification is to remove the locking pins on all your microUSB cable connectors. This can be done by filing them down carefully with a small file.

The latter is important, especially if you don't feel confident in taking your N900 apart to reinforce the port.

[edit] Inductive Charging

Bridging the gap between a non-permanent hardware mod and an accessory the universal Qi inductive charging add-on pads have been installed both over and under the stock and Mugen battery covers, the semi-permanent installation into the microUSB port reduces dangerous cable leverage and USB port wear to nearly zero and the nearly flush USB port plug also protects the USB port from foreign object damage making the inductive charging add-on even more important to N900 owners than most users. The USB port can be easily unplugged if needed for use in USB host, 3G modem, and mass storage modes. talk.maemo.org Qi Inductive Charging Universal Add-On Installation

[edit] Magnetic Charge Port Adapter

There are several magnetic adapters available to both plug the USB port and also ensure a safe break-away should the N900 be dropped. No leverage to snap off your N900's fragile USB port from the PCB.

In testing the four or five pin USB adapters permit a data connection but if you do any metal work with steel it will attract magnetic particles as happened in testing, this adapter experienced a melt-down and nearly a fire one evening after falling to the floor in a workspace.

Another tested magnetic adapter has a coaxial positive and negative connections(pin and surrounding ring) It has the data pins shorted to put the N900 into fast charge mode. while there is the hazard of magnetic particles connecting the two poles are 2mm apart and it is easier to see any foreign objects as the cable side of the connector has a blue LED allowing it to also be found easily in a dark room. This adapter also inserted fully and had a rubber washer to buffer any drops; combined with an Otter case the adapter is nearly flush with the Otterbox armor. This adapter requires more than just fingernails to remove in testing, but a keychain pocket knife screwdriver or nail file was sufficient to safely remove it.

[edit] File System

File System information

[edit] Firmware

[edit] Initial Firmware Setup

So you have your N900 The first step especially if it's used is to flash the firmware. This can be used to clean off any unstable software and make a clean start.


It's recommended to download the latest Nokia firmware images for your region. The latest versions are highlighted.

Firmware Flashing

[edit] Cloning a New N900 with BackupMenu Backup Files

Requires a good USB cable, currently fastest path to flash a new or used N900 and install the required kernel and backupmenu from the repos to make a clone of your old or broken N900. Until the steps to safely use Fiasco Flasher to flash a kernel and file system including /opt from backupmenu files the instructions below are the fastest way to recover your old configuration on a new device.

http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=100595

[edit] Highly Recommended Further Setup

[edit] Importance of CSSU

If you have flashed your firmware as above, your N900 will now be on the last major Nokia release (PR1.3). From here onwards the Maemo Community are providing vital security updates, fixing bugs and generally moving the device forward. This is known as CSSU or Community SSU.

It is recommended all users install CSSU, of which there are two versions.

More information on this can be found on the CSSU page.

[edit] Recommended Further Setup

[edit] Kernel Power

Kernel Power is a community developed Kernel that provides addition features and fixes to the Kernel. Kernel Power also provides the ability to overclock the device with an additional package kernel-power-settings

While overclocking is not recommended and has been known to reduce the lifetime of the device, the [Kernel Power] package on it's own is recommended and will not alter your device from the standard 250Mhz-600Mhz clock speed.

It provided important features like stable Smartreflex which will significantly increase battery life.

Please see the Kernel Power page for more information on this. Please note Kernel Power page is heavily biased on overclocking and is provided for further reference only.

[edit] Utilise the SD Card

The N900 has a uSD card slot, it's good to use this as much as possible to reduce flash wear from the devices eMMC.

Many users setup there swap space(s) on the uSD card this frees up the I/O of the device.

There has been much discussion on this and applications written to help with this.

Further reading

[edit] Swappolube

Swappolube is a package to modify memory management. Most users tweak this to suit their device and usage. If you're unsure where to start, the proposed settings are a good base.

More information can be found on the Swappolube page.

[edit] Settings

[edit] Network Positioning

If you use the incorrect settings your device may be slow at getting a GPS fix.

There is also a bug with maemo-security-certman, this has been fixed in CSSU.

Make sure the latest version of your CSSU flavour is installed.

Navigate to

Settings > Location > Network Positioning

then check the Location server is 

supl.nokia.com

If Nokia's supl server doesn't give you functional AGPS (there have been reports that the Nokia supl server has been shut down) try Google's SUPL server. 

supl.google.com

[edit] Software

[edit] Repositories

Maemo software works in the same way as most Linux distributions', repositories provide a secure and easy method of supplying software to end-users.

Information about the different repositories can be found on the Extras page.

[edit] Getting Root

Root access

[edit] Common Modifications

Please note these common modifications are here for reference. If you are a complete beginner and do not understand you must be aware that you could damage parts of your filesystem if you mess up.

[edit] Purging Unnecessary Software

[edit] Cherry

With the PR 1.2 update Nokia introduced "My Nokia" an SMS subscription service on which you receive periodic texts from Nokia. This was automatically installed/subscribed on devices and was known to cause issues with devices sending and receiving unwanted SMS messages.

This package is one of the first to be removed by members of the community, for obvious reasons. It can be removed by:- 

apt-get remove --purge cherry


[edit] Further reading on My Nokia and cherry

PR1.2 compulsory My Nokia subscription

[edit] Additional Unnecessary Software

The following is deemed safe. Run in a Terminal as Root to remove unnecessary software provided with the Nokia firmware. 

apt-get remove --purge hildon-theme-beta osso-chess-ui gnuchess osso-graphics-game-chess osso-lmarbles osso-graphics-game-lmarbles osso-sounds-game-chess maemoblocks ap-installer amazon-installer foreca-installer facebook-installer skype-installer dtg-installer tutorial-home-applet osso-tutorial-l10n-engb osso-tutorial-l10n-ptpt osso-tutorial-l10n-frca osso-tutorial-l10n-nlnl osso-tutorial-l10n-cscz osso-tutorial-l10n-itit osso-tutorial-l10n-eses osso-tutorial-l10n-svse osso-tutorial-l10n-frfr osso-tutorial-l10n-dede osso-tutorial-l10n-fifi osso-tutorial-l10n-nono osso-tutorial-l10n-esmx osso-tutorial-l10n-enus osso-tutorial-l10n-ruru osso-tutorial-l10n-mr0 osso-tutorial-l10n-plpl osso-systemui-splashscreen sharing-service-flickr sharing-service-ovi chinese-font google-search-widget tutorial-home-applet osso-mahjong osso-graphics-game-mahjong osso-sounds-game-mahjong ovi-promotion-widget

talk.maemo.org Safe to remove?

[edit] Disable Nokia Hands

There are three main methods to do this.

[edit] Method 1

Rename the file

/opt/usr/share/hildon-welcome/media/Hands-v32-h264.avi

to

/opt/usr/share/hildon-welcome/media/Hands-v32-h264.avi.disabled

[edit] Method 2

Use a text editor to edit the file

/etc/hildon-welcome.d/default.conf

Comment out the last line.

filename=Hands-v32-h264.avi

[edit] Method 3

Remove the hildon-welcome package, which included the bootvideo

Firstly gain root:

root

Then remove the package by issuing

apt-get purge hildon-welcome

[edit] Faking Flash Player 12 for MicroB

Post on talk.maemo.org 

apt-get remove --purge adobe-flashplayer
apt-get install hexedit
dpkg -i adobe-flashplayer-10.deb
hexedit /usr/lib/browser/plugins/libflashplayer.so
  • Once in Hexedit, press CTRL+S and type in 31302e31 and press enter, the string you've just found need to be changed to 31322e31
  • Now, press CTRL+S, type "y" and search for 31302c31 and change it to 31322c31
  • Press CTRL+S then "y" again.
  • Close terminal (CTRL+X) and enjoy new faked v12.1.98.88 flash player

[edit] Watch 720p movies

720p Thread - talk.maemo.org

[edit] Customizing Maemo

Customizing the appearance of Maemo

Customizing Maemo

[edit] Credits

My thanks go to jebba, titan, pali, NIN101, MentalistTraceur, sixwheeledbeast, DocScrutinizer05, sEKI, kerio, freemangordon, qwazix, ShadowJK and everyone on #maemo

[edit] Wiki Update Info

Last Updated - sixwheeledbeast - 31 Jan 2013 21:41 UTC
Retrieved from "https://wiki.maemo.org/N900_The_Perfect_Setup"