27 replies to this topic

[kbphoto615]

hobbeshill, on 11 December 2011 - 04:25 AM, said:

The linked instructions remove all Nook software but the Nook or kindle app can be downloaded from the market. The latest stable version is 7.1. Nightlies are daily compilations of work done and can be too unstable for a daily version. Do you have ROM manager installed and clockwork recovery installed? With the problems you are having, I would boot into recovery, wipe data and cache, flash 7.1, flash gapps and reboot. This should fix the widgets etc, wipes are a must when flashing new software. As for a non tech savvy launcher, Adw is a really good one. I know of nothing more simple that is stable. Many themes are available in the market. Edit: wallpapers and widgets are accessed by a long hold on your home screen

Ok, couple more questions then I promise I'm done bugging you guys.

What is the difference or advantage/disadvantage to using the Auto-Nooter for firmware 1.0.1, vs using CM7?

Second, and last question, I think, is I can't seem to access Rom Manager? If it is installed, I can't find it. Searching my market I don't see anything but Rom Manager Premium. Do I have to pay for this app? I would like install some Rom's or custom Kernals eventually, but do not think I can do so without this Rom Manager app correct?

[jpate86]

kbphoto615, on 11 December 2011 - 10:54 PM, said:

Ok, couple more questions then I promise I'm done bugging you guys.

What is the difference or advantage/disadvantage to using the Auto-Nooter for firmware 1.0.1, vs using CM7?

Second, and last question, I think, is I can't seem to access Rom Manager? If it is installed, I can't find it. Searching my market I don't see anything but Rom Manager Premium. Do I have to pay for this app? I would like install some Rom's or custom Kernals eventually, but do not think I can do so without this Rom Manager app correct?

If you were to only "nooter" the device, this would in having the stock Nook OS plus root access.  I have not used the stock OS after running Auto-Nooter for more than a couple of minutes before flashing CM7 so I am not sure of what you would/wouldn't be able to do.  I am guessing you would be able to side load most "regular" Android apps (maybe you can do this without root access, not sure).  You would of course also be able to side load apps the require root access such as ROM Manager.  However, there are going to be quite a few things that are just not going to work.  For example, I would be surprised if the Android Market would function within the Nook OS at all.  Also, based on what I know you can only overclock the CPU on the stock ROM to 1.1 GHz.  On CM7 I have mine overclocked and stable at 1.35 GHz.

With CM7 you would have the full Android OS with full functionality.  Due to licensing issues Google Apps cannot be included in 3rd party ROM's such as CM7, but it takes about 5 seconds to flash the Google Apps package.  At this point you have full Market access, as well as apps not distributed via the Market such as Google Talk.  As previously mentioned you can also do full overclocking of your CPU.  Some users report being able to overclock all the way to 1.5 GHz without stability issues, but I have not been able to do this so far.  With CM7 you are basically going to be able to do anything the Android OS is capable of.  If you have ever used an Android phone, you will be getting the same environment (2.3 Gingerbread that is) minus things like phone capability and native text messaging.  On the plus side you also get to shed all of the carrier bloatware and customization we all hate so much.  CM7 is an extremely clean and streamlined Android distribution.

My advice would be to just take the leap and go CM7.  You won't regret.  If you don't like it for some reason you can always go back to stock as other users and myself mentioned in previous posts.  If you decide to go with CM7, good luck and report back once you have done it and let us know what you think.

Edit:
I forgot to answer you second question.  You will not see ROM Manager until you do the auto nooter process.  At this point it will be in your "Extras" area if I remember correctly.

Edited by jpate86, 12 December 2011 - 09:30 AM.

[bobstro]

kbphoto615, on 11 December 2011 - 10:54 PM, said:

[...] What is the difference or advantage/disadvantage to using the Auto-Nooter for firmware 1.0.1, vs using CM7?

1.0.1 is old stuff if you decide to stick with stock. I'd update to at least the current version (1.3) as there have been a lot of bugfixes and improvements.

One drawback to the B&N ROMs is that you need to disable auto-updates if you're going to root. If an OTA update occurs, your user could lose root and possibly have other issues afterwards.

Personally, I don't like the B&N interface up through 1.3. That big button at the bottom of the screen is useless, and there's no native back button. You have to add something like button savior to get the missing android buttons.

I have played with the 1.4 interface on a Tablet, and there's supposed to be an update for the Nook Color from B&N someday soon that will make it equivalent. That version fixed a lot of issues, including providing a back and menu button. With some 3rd party software, you can integrate Market apps into the B&N interface, which is very nice for a reader-focused experience. I like that you can move items on the homescreen around at will and size them however you wish. It's a nice break from the grid interfaces we've seen up until now. It's a very nice reader-focused interface, and once rooted, you can integrate Market apps into the B&N home screen nicely.

One other consideration in favor of a stock ROM is the limitation of the B&N Nook reader app from the Market. It's pretty weak compared to the stock reader. I've tried running it on CM7.1, and have given up. It's a hassle to sideload content due to lack of an import function, and large titles that work fine on other readers just don't open. Aldiko is a far better reader, but if you're giving the unit to somebody who will be dependent on B&N for content, this might be a consideration. It's a shame, because I do like B&N's magazine and newspaper subscriptions.

I do like CM7.1. In addition to the performance improvements noted above, it's infinitely customizable. It does make the device more phone-like though -- everything's laid out on a coarse grid. Fine for someone that's expecting a cheap Android tablet, but possibly frustrating for someone that just wants a nice reader. I always consider how much tech support I'm going to be stuck doing when I give a gift like this. How tech-savvy is the recipient? Do they want an e-reader or an Android tablet? To make my CM 7.1 tablet more reader-like has taken a bit of work.

[kbphoto615]

bobstro, on 12 December 2011 - 06:12 PM, said:

1.0.1 is old stuff if you decide to stick with stock. I'd update to at least the current version (1.3) as there have been a lot of bugfixes and improvements.

One drawback to the B&N ROMs is that you need to disable auto-updates if you're going to root. If an OTA update occurs, your user could lose root and possibly have other issues afterwards.

Personally, I don't like the B&N interface up through 1.3. That big button at the bottom of the screen is useless, and there's no native back button. You have to add something like button savior to get the missing android buttons.

I have played with the 1.4 interface on a Tablet, and there's supposed to be an update for the Nook Color from B&N someday soon that will make it equivalent. That version fixed a lot of issues, including providing a back and menu button. With some 3rd party software, you can integrate Market apps into the B&N interface, which is very nice for a reader-focused experience. I like that you can move items on the homescreen around at will and size them however you wish. It's a nice break from the grid interfaces we've seen up until now. It's a very nice reader-focused interface, and once rooted, you can integrate Market apps into the B&N home screen nicely.

One other consideration in favor of a stock ROM is the limitation of the B&N Nook reader app from the Market. It's pretty weak compared to the stock reader. I've tried running it on CM7.1, and have given up. It's a hassle to sideload content due to lack of an import function, and large titles that work fine on other readers just don't open. Aldiko is a far better reader, but if you're giving the unit to somebody who will be dependent on B&N for content, this might be a consideration. It's a shame, because I do like B&N's magazine and newspaper subscriptions.

I do like CM7.1. In addition to the performance improvements noted above, it's infinitely customizable. It does make the device more phone-like though -- everything's laid out on a coarse grid. Fine for someone that's expecting a cheap Android tablet, but possibly frustrating for someone that just wants a nice reader. I always consider how much tech support I'm going to be stuck doing when I give a gift like this. How tech-savvy is the recipient? Do they want an e-reader or an Android tablet? To make my CM 7.1 tablet more reader-like has taken a bit of work.

This answer is so in depth and so helpful. You have really cleared up alot of things for me. I'm sorry to keep bugging you guys but hopefully this is my last post and last issues I have before sending this thing off.

So, as of right now I am on 1.0.1 firmware, and I Auto-Nooted it. I did this option only to see what it was like, this was after trying CM7 nightly first.

As of right now, I have access to the stock Nook Color options, as well as what appears to be a full Android market and Google Apps. I also see a back button, and other options you mention shouldnt be there? I don't know why, but I guess I got lucky? or the Auto-Nooter came with the 3rd party software and added it for me?

Anyway. since taking this route, I have not noticed the glitches that I did notice when I first installed CM7. When I had CM7 on here, Live wallpapers did not work properly,apps were awfully glitchy, and you are most certainly correct when you say it makes it more phone like. I hated this, and I think she would too. When you ask me is the receipt tech savy, she most certainly is not. With the Auto-Nooter method, it seems to be dumbproof. I have installed all the apps I think she will need, and so far everything appears to be working normally.


Using this Auto-Nooter method, I see I do not have the ability to install custom ROM's? Is this correct? As I said before I have no access to ROM Manager, free version, so I would assume this means installing overclocking roms and stuff are out of the question right?


Now, one issue I'm still facing is the Home layout, and the grid or limitations to it. I am using LauncherPro, and so far it seems alright. Yet I cannot move things anywhere I want, they seem to be stuck in a predisposed grid layout. Is there a way to change this or customize it at all? I do not see a way to access settings for these launchers? I have tried ADW and LauncherPro to no avail, I see no way to customize them or edit them, further then changing the theme itself.

The person who will be getting this for Christmas will  most likely use this is as a glorified reader and at times a document editor. She may surf the web from time to time to, but I know she's not expecting this thing to be like a full fledged tablet. I'm mainly only worried about the ease of use for her as she's not as tech savvy as me. haha


I really appreciate everyones help. I cannot thank you all enough!

Edited by kbphoto615, 12 December 2011 - 09:25 PM.

[bobstro]

kbphoto615, on 12 December 2011 - 09:20 PM, said:

This answer is so in depth and so helpful. You have really cleared up alot of things for me. I'm sorry to keep bugging you guys but hopefully this is my last post and last issues I have before sending this thing off.

Glad it's useful. The group here is a great resource. Don't be shy about asking questions!

Quote

[...] As of right now, I have access to the stock Nook Color options, as well as what appears to be a full Android market and Google Apps. I also see a back button, and other options you mention shouldnt be there? I don't know why, but I guess I got lucky? or the Auto-Nooter came with the 3rd party software and added it for me?

I believe Button Savior (BS) is installed for you. Do you see a little arrow on the right that you click to expand the other buttons? If so, that sounds like BS. On CM, those are integrated into the status bar at the bottom, so they don't overlap active screen space. On the B&N 1.4 interface, they've also integrated the buttons into the bottom status bar, but also allow a back swiping action that I've grown quite fond of.

Quote

Anyway. since taking this route, I have not noticed the glitches that I did notice when I first installed CM7. [...] I have installed all the apps I think she will need, and so far everything appears to be working normally.

Sounds like you had a bad initial install! Everything should pretty much just work with CM.

Quote

Using this Auto-Nooter method, I see I do not have the ability to install custom ROM's? Is this correct? As I said before I have no access to ROM Manager, free version, so I would assume this means installing overclocking roms and stuff are out of the question right?

As was mentioned above, the Nook Color is pretty hard to screw up permanently. You can always create a bootable MicroSD card with Clockworkmod recovery and the ROM of your choice on it. I went through this exercise earlier this week, in fact. I just put B&N 1.3 and CM 7.1 on the card, and keep it aside for emergencies.

Quote

Now, one issue I'm still facing is the Home layout, and the grid or limitations to it. I am using LauncherPro, and so far it seems alright. Yet I cannot move things anywhere I want, they seem to be stuck in a predisposed grid layout. Is there a way to change this or customize it at all? I do not see a way to access settings for these launchers? I have tried ADW and LauncherPro to no avail, I see no way to customize them or edit them, further then changing the theme itself.

I've finally settled on ADW EX (paid), but have tinkered with ADW, LauncherPro and Go Launcher in the past. Each offers you some customization -- usually by clicking on the menu button and selecting "Preferences" (not "Settings"). Go didn't give a lot of options for sizing the grid. ADW and LP give more control. I'm using a 5 x 7 grid in portrait mode with big giant icons at 240dpi. ADW also has an option to resize icons and labels so they don't look so lost on the big tablet screen.

I finally settled on ADW EX because of one feature I've yet to find on the others: The ability to completely get rid of the dock at the bottom. On my phone, I want phone functions always available, but I have no such needs on a Tablet. I like having each screen set aside for a specific function.

ADW EX has also recently added stackable icons to create a folder. No more need for another app (e.g. Folder Organizer) to create folders. It's not perfect, but it's quick and included. I do wish there was a lock function though! It's easy to stack icons unintentionally.

Quote

The person who will be getting this for Christmas will  most likely use this is as a glorified reader and at times a document editor. She may surf the web from time to time to, but I know she's not expecting this thing to be like a full fledged tablet. I'm mainly only worried about the ease of use for her as she's not as tech savvy as me.

My wife will be using hers similarly, though with more emphasis on web browsing. I've loaded hers up with the Kindle app as well as B&N's for maximum flexibility. The B&N Nook app is OK for stuff you buy through B&N. I just had problems with large sideloaded documents. You will also want the Nook Book Cover Helper app to enable the book covers for sideloaded books. (B&N 1.4 software handles covers fine, but the Android app doesn't, unfortunately.)

Does she have a preference for online store? If not, You might check out Aldiko as an alternative reader. It's got an integrated store function, but lacks B&N's magazine and newspaper subscription features. Be sure to set up Overdrive so she can make use of her local library for content!

Be conscious of the fact that she won't be able to get local support at B&N stores if you root or load CM on it. You may go from being a hero to a goat if she gets frustrated! I keep things real simple for family and friends these days!

Good luck with it.

[kbphoto615]

bobstro, on 12 December 2011 - 09:57 PM, said:

Glad it's useful. The group here is a great resource. Don't be shy about asking questions!I believe Button Savior (BS) is installed for you. Do you see a little arrow on the right that you click to expand the other buttons? If so, that sounds like BS. On CM, those are integrated into the status bar at the bottom, so they don't overlap active screen space. On the B&N 1.4 interface, they've also integrated the buttons into the bottom status bar, but also allow a back swiping action that I've grown quite fond of.Sounds like you had a bad initial install! Everything should pretty much just work with CM.As was mentioned above, the Nook Color is pretty hard to screw up permanently. You can always create a bootable MicroSD card with Clockworkmod recovery and the ROM of your choice on it. I went through this exercise earlier this week, in fact. I just put B&N 1.3 and CM 7.1 on the card, and keep it aside for emergencies.I've finally settled on ADW EX (paid), but have tinkered with ADW, LauncherPro and Go Launcher in the past. Each offers you some customization -- usually by clicking on the menu button and selecting "Preferences" (not "Settings"). Go didn't give a lot of options for sizing the grid. ADW and LP give more control. I'm using a 5 x 7 grid in portrait mode with big giant icons at 240dpi. ADW also has an option to resize icons and labels so they don't look so lost on the big tablet screen.

I finally settled on ADW EX because of one feature I've yet to find on the others: The ability to completely get rid of the dock at the bottom. On my phone, I want phone functions always available, but I have no such needs on a Tablet. I like having each screen set aside for a specific function.

ADW EX has also recently added stackable icons to create a folder. No more need for another app (e.g. Folder Organizer) to create folders. It's not perfect, but it's quick and included. I do wish there was a lock function though! It's easy to stack icons unintentionally.My wife will be using hers similarly, though with more emphasis on web browsing. I've loaded hers up with the Kindle app as well as B&N's for maximum flexibility. The B&N Nook app is OK for stuff you buy through B&N. I just had problems with large sideloaded documents. You will also want the Nook Book Cover Helper app to enable the book covers for sideloaded books. (B&N 1.4 software handles covers fine, but the Android app doesn't, unfortunately.)

Does she have a preference for online store? If not, You might check out Aldiko as an alternative reader. It's got an integrated store function, but lacks B&N's magazine and newspaper subscription features. Be sure to set up Overdrive so she can make use of her local library for content!

Be conscious of the fact that she won't be able to get local support at B&N stores if you root or load CM on it. You may go from being a hero to a goat if she gets frustrated! I keep things real simple for family and friends these days!

Good luck with it.

Thanks I really appreciate all the help. So should I follow the same guide above on one of the first posts, if I want to load CM7 on one of the SD cards that I have, just to check it out one more time. I also was reading you gotta have a Sandisk certain class SD card to do so, is this correct? or did I read that in a different guide? haha I'm so confused. So many guides.

To be honest, about what reader or store she prefers, nothing. I think I'll probably download the books for her and show/explain to her how to upload them. haha

Thanks again guys!

Edited by kbphoto615, 12 December 2011 - 10:21 PM.

[jpate86]

kbphoto615, on 12 December 2011 - 10:17 PM, said:

Thanks I really appreciate all the help. So should I follow the same guide above on one of the first posts, if I want to load CM7 on one of the SD cards that I have, just to check it out one more time. I also was reading you gotta have a Sandisk certain class SD card to do so, is this correct? or did I read that in a different guide? haha I'm so confused. So many guides.

To be honest, about what reader or store she prefers, nothing. I think I'll probably download the books for her and show/explain to her how to upload them. haha

Thanks again guys!

For dual boot info, check out this thread on XDA.  It seems pretty to be laid out in fairly concise steps.  If you haven't already made your way over to XDA, check out their Nook Color forum.  It is a great resource with info on just about anything you would want to know about Nook Color modding.

As for the SD class question, this is not true from my experience.  I have used a PNY, SanDisk, AData, and Maxell SD cards of the class 4 and 10 varieties with no problems.  The only advice I would have on SD cards is to avoid Patriot branded cards.  I have never owned one, but the reviews for them across the web are pretty awful.  Also, don't speed a bunch of money to get a class 10 over a class 4. There is a performance gain on a good class 10 card vs a class 4, but the only time I notice it is while running SD Tools (benchmarking) or when inserting it to my PC to transfer data.  I doubt you would see any practical performance gain during day to day use.  I also wouldn't buy a class 2 card either just because class 4 cards often cost the same amount or less.  The best brand in my experience for the Nook Color/Android is AData.  Newegg carries their full line of products at very reasonable prices.

[kbphoto615]

jpate86, on 12 December 2011 - 11:03 PM, said:

For dual boot info, check out this thread on XDA.  It seems pretty to be laid out in fairly concise steps.  If you haven't already made your way over to XDA, check out their Nook Color forum.  It is a great resource with info on just about anything you would want to know about Nook Color modding.

As for the SD class question, this is not true from my experience.  I have used a PNY, SanDisk, AData, and Maxell SD cards of the class 4 and 10 varieties with no problems.  The only advice I would have on SD cards is to avoid Patriot branded cards.  I have never owned one, but the reviews for them across the web are pretty awful.  Also, don't speed a bunch of money to get a class 10 over a class 4. There is a performance gain on a good class 10 card vs a class 4, but the only time I notice it is while running SD Tools (benchmarking) or when inserting it to my PC to transfer data.  I doubt you would see any practical performance gain during day to day use.  I also wouldn't buy a class 2 card either just because class 4 cards often cost the same amount or less.  The best brand in my experience for the Nook Color/Android is AData.  Newegg carries their full line of products at very reasonable prices.

Thankyou so much. I am going to attempt the dual boot, and I would very much appreciate if you would keep checking back on this thread, just incase I run into any issues.

I posted this same thread on XDA and I don't think anyone, but me, even read it. haha
So I'm only getting help from you guys here basically. Which i'm super grateful for!

I'll post back if something goes wrong, or If I have more questions. Thank you again, to everyone.

Edited by kbphoto615, 12 December 2011 - 11:50 PM.

[bobstro]

I did have problems with an SD install using a Class 10, and even a variety of Class 6 and 4. Sandisk Class 4 cards worked for me, and from what I'm reading, they've got a good rep. There has been discussion that the characteristics of faster cards work against performance with lots of small reads. Lots of detail at XDA.

Those same cards that did not work for an SD install work fine with an eemc internal install as data storage.

[kbphoto615]

bobstro, on 13 December 2011 - 04:31 AM, said:

I did have problems with an SD install using a Class 10, and even a variety of Class 6 and 4. Sandisk Class 4 cards worked for me, and from what I'm reading, they've got a good rep. There has been discussion that the characteristics of faster cards work against performance with lots of small reads. Lots of detail at XDA.

Those same cards that did not work for an SD install work fine with an eemc internal install as data storage.

How can I know what class Micro SD card I have? I see no indication on the card itself or the adapter, and do not have the packaging still. :/

EDIT:

Also, is there a way to backup this Auto-Nooter method I've already done, just incase the CM7 install goes bad for one reason or another? Really don't wanna have to re-add this data and re customize her homescreen and stuff.

Thanks guys!

Edited by kbphoto615, 13 December 2011 - 06:04 AM.

[bobstro]

kbphoto615, on 13 December 2011 - 05:22 AM, said:

How can I know what class Micro SD card I have? I see no indication on the card itself or the adapter, and do not have the packaging still. :/

The class is usually indicated by a digit inside a circle on the card itself.

Quote

Also, is there a way to backup this Auto-Nooter method I've already done, just incase the CM7 install goes bad for one reason or another? Really don't wanna have to re-add this data and re customize her homescreen and stuff.

You can do a backup in Clockwork Recovery. I find I sometimes have to re-install the ROM (e.g. CM), then restore the backup for best results.

EDIT: Looks like firmware v1.4.1 is now available:

http://forum.xda-dev...d.php?t=1388050

However, as of this writing, it looks like rooting breaks the B&N apps (see the post #51 in that thread). I'm going to set mine up on 1.4.1 tonight to test it out.

I think you're seeing that this can become an obsession. Keep it simple!

[kbphoto615]

bobstro, on 13 December 2011 - 06:32 AM, said:

The class is usually indicated by a digit inside a circle on the card itself.You can do a backup in Clockwork Recovery. I find I sometimes have to re-install the ROM (e.g. CM), then restore the backup for best results.

EDIT: Looks like firmware v1.4.1 is now available:

http://forum.xda-dev...d.php?t=1388050

However, as of this writing, it looks like rooting breaks the B&N apps (see the post #51 in that thread). I'm going to set mine up on 1.4.1 tonight to test it out.

I think you're seeing that this can become an obsession. Keep it simple!

EDIT:

Ok I got Class 4 SD Sandisk card. Now, in the link you sent me in your edit. I'm more confused. Should I update to 1.4.1 and then load CM7 on the SD card?  I see some hit and miss with it in the posts on that thread. Can I just follow the instructions for dual-boot as I normally would? And hope for the best I guess.

Yes, this can become an obsession. When my friend told me " Oh just get her a Nook, theres so many easy hacks for it she'll love it " I did not think it would  be so..overwhelming. haha

Edited by kbphoto615, 14 December 2011 - 02:24 AM.

[bobstro]

kbphoto615, on 13 December 2011 - 05:20 PM, said:

Ok I got Class 4 SD Sandisk card. Now, in the link you sent me in your edit. I'm more confused. Should I update to 1.4.1 and then load CM7 on the SD card?  I see some hit and miss with it in the posts on that thread. Can I just follow the instructions for dual-boot as I normally would? And hope for the best I guess.

I only mentioned that 1.4.1 was out as information in case a full root becomes available real soon (before you need to ship the unit). Root functionality isn't quite there yet with 1.4.1. If you had to ship tomorrow, you'd only consider rooting 1.3.

While the same process as for 1.3 works to gain root, some key things don't work afterwards. Most importantly, the Android Market doesn't fully function. Some folks are reporting that the B&N apps also won't download content, though I had no problems in that regard. Given past history, this may well happen. If you decide to stay at 1.3 and root it, be sure to disable the automatic updates or she'll have problems and it will all be your fault!

I'm afraid you've got a tough choice:

• 1.4.1 is very sexy from a reader perspective. The B&N walled garden is quite pretty. Some content is only available on "real" B&N devices. For example, Wired Magazine has some really excellent interactive features that go beyond print. You have to be on 1.4.1 to read these on an NC. They won't work with the B&N Android Nook app, at least not today. The landscape mode on the reader is also very well done. An alternative such as Aldiko will surely catch up shortly.
  
• CM7.1 works and is pretty much bullet proof. Aldiko is a fine reader, and full Market access gives you complete flexibility. However, it can be a bit overwhelming to a non-techie who just wants to read a book if you load too much up. CM7.1 won't auto-update, and doesn't lock you in. However, you are her primary tech support if something goes wrong. It's also not quite as pretty (IMO) as a reader. You can put book shortcuts on the desktop, but they're tiny and not resizable like on the B&N ROM. B&N content kinda works with the Android Nook app. Amazon Kindle works today.

I'm opting for a rooted 1.4 Nook Tablet for my wife, but the Color is not quite there yet. A safe bet might be 1.4.1 on internal (not rooted) dual-booting to CM7.1 on the SD card. That way, she's got all the CM flexibility, but you can easily talk her through restoring it to stock if she prefers it.


Dual-boot is working fine with 1.4.1. I reverted to Stock 1.3, then updated to 1.4.1. I did not root this configuration. I then created a bootable SD card using directions up on XDA and I am able to jump back and forth at will. Once a successful procedure is available for rooting 1.4.1, I'll give it a try.

Quote

Yes, this can become an obsession. When my friend told me " Oh just get her a Nook, theres so many easy hacks for it she'll love it " I did not think it would  be so..overwhelming. haha

Apple took a cue from Devo and went with "Freedom from Choice". Sadly, that works for a lot of people and explains why so many are paying $500+ for devices that don't do all that much more! With great power comes great responsibility and all that, so your challenge is to harness the power of your NC and CM to make a simple reader out of it!

Have fun and good luck with it!

[kbphoto615]

bobstro, on 14 December 2011 - 04:31 AM, said:

I only mentioned that 1.4.1 was out as information in case a full root becomes available real soon (before you need to ship the unit). Root functionality isn't quite there yet with 1.4.1. If you had to ship tomorrow, you'd only consider rooting 1.3.

While the same process as for 1.3 works to gain root, some key things don't work afterwards. Most importantly, the Android Market doesn't fully function. Some folks are reporting that the B&N apps also won't download content, though I had no problems in that regard. Given past history, this may well happen. If you decide to stay at 1.3 and root it, be sure to disable the automatic updates or she'll have problems and it will all be your fault!

I'm afraid you've got a tough choice:

• 1.4.1 is very sexy from a reader perspective. The B&N walled garden is quite pretty. Some content is only available on "real" B&N devices. For example, Wired Magazine has some really excellent interactive features that go beyond print. You have to be on 1.4.1 to read these on an NC. They won't work with the B&N Android Nook app, at least not today. The landscape mode on the reader is also very well done. An alternative such as Aldiko will surely catch up shortly.
  
• CM7.1 works and is pretty much bullet proof. Aldiko is a fine reader, and full Market access gives you complete flexibility. However, it can be a bit overwhelming to a non-techie who just wants to read a book if you load too much up. CM7.1 won't auto-update, and doesn't lock you in. However, you are her primary tech support if something goes wrong. It's also not quite as pretty (IMO) as a reader. You can put book shortcuts on the desktop, but they're tiny and not resizable like on the B&N ROM. B&N content kinda works with the Android Nook app. Amazon Kindle works today.

I'm opting for a rooted 1.4 Nook Tablet for my wife, but the Color is not quite there yet. A safe bet might be 1.4.1 on internal (not rooted) dual-booting to CM7.1 on the SD card. That way, she's got all the CM flexibility, but you can easily talk her through restoring it to stock if she prefers it.


Dual-boot is working fine with 1.4.1. I reverted to Stock 1.3, then updated to 1.4.1. I did not root this configuration. I then created a bootable SD card using directions up on XDA and I am able to jump back and forth at will. Once a successful procedure is available for rooting 1.4.1, I'll give it a try.

Apple took a cue from Devo and went with "Freedom from Choice". Sadly, that works for a lot of people and explains why so many are paying $500+ for devices that don't do all that much more! With great power comes great responsibility and all that, so your challenge is to harness the power of your NC and CM to make a simple reader out of it!

Have fun and good luck with it!

Well as of right now. I am on 1.3 Manual Nooted. Everything works fine accept for a few apps that say "Not Found" when I try to download, so far particularly Miren Web Browser, and a couple of Live Wallpaper's/themes. But so far I think this will be the one I stick with.

I'm nervous to dual boot with her, because I want her to turn it on and it just work. If she takes her card out, (it's only an 8gb and I know she'll use this as a document editor ), I want her to still be able to boot up and do all that she would want to do, and still be able to interchange her SD cards, with different documents and files. You know?

Again, so far everyhing appears to be working. Any tips on what to check and and toy with before I ship this thing off? So far I've played with everything I can think of it and all appears to be working properly.

[bobstro]

Be sure you've got it configured not to auto-update, or it'll pull down 1.4.1 some time in the next week and break things! From what I'm reading, it'll silently download 1.4.1 in the background and try to boot. When it does, it'll get stuck on the Clockwork recovery screen and she'll be dead in the water. And it will all be your fault!

Are those non-functioning apps breaking when you try to download them from the Android Market?

If you're on 1.3:

• The Nook Color App Manager will let you add non-B&N programs to the B&N launcher.
  
• The Nook Book Cover Helperwill let you get cover images for sideloaded books working.

EDIT: Looks like a root is working, or at least very very close, for B&N 1.4.1.

We may be off-topic for the CM forums now!

- Bob

[mamabearcf]

Hi guys!

Believe it or not, I've read through this entire thread!

I rooted my Nook Color yesterday to function with CM7. Only to find out that it does not allow for the stock nook reader that I use so much for "Read to Me Children's books". I use this on a daily basis with my daughter when putting her down for the night.

So my dilemma... i would like the stock nook reader, yet I really like being able to use Netflix and other apps on the android market.

It seems, from what I gather in your thread, that auto-nooting might be my best bet. Do you agree? Will I get the same android market stuff, including streaming Netflix, and also be able to use the nook stock ready for those read to me books?

What do you think, guys? If I have to put the nook back to stock, how do I do that?

Thanks so much for your help! I'm totally at a loss as what to do.

[kbphoto615]

bobstro, on 14 December 2011 - 08:10 PM, said:

Be sure you've got it configured not to auto-update, or it'll pull down 1.4.1 some time in the next week and break things! From what I'm reading, it'll silently download 1.4.1 in the background and try to boot. When it does, it'll get stuck on the Clockwork recovery screen and she'll be dead in the water. And it will all be your fault!

Are those non-functioning apps breaking when you try to download them from the Android Market?

If you're on 1.3:

• The Nook Color App Manager will let you add non-B&N programs to the B&N launcher.
  
• The Nook Book Cover Helperwill let you get cover images for sideloaded books working.

EDIT: Looks like a root is working, or at least very very close, for B&N 1.4.1.

We may be off-topic for the CM forums now!

- Bob

Well, crap. haha I did not do this. I already sent it to her. When I sent it to her I was on the latest stable of CM7, on emmc. How would I go about instructing her to disable updates?

[bobstro]

kbphoto615, on 22 December 2011 - 04:51 AM, said:

Well, crap. haha I did not do this. I already sent it to her. When I sent it to her I was on the latest stable of CM7, on emmc. How would I go about instructing her to disable updates?

If the stock B&N install is not rooted, it's no big deal. So long as she's booting from SD, the updates won't load. Hopefully, you can get your mitts on it before she pulls the card out and gets an OTA update.

[patruns]

Quote

I was on the latest stable of CM7, on emmc.

If you are running CM7 off the eMMC you have nothing to worry about. The stock ROM is gone and B&N will not even see it let alone try and update it.

[16trohrt]

Babied huh? Follow huskermania on youtube. He has complete, VERY detailed guides on how to root/unroot the nook color. Highly recommended.