Frequently Asked Questions-T-Mobile Galaxy Note 3

BACARDILIMON

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Jun 12, 2010
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MASTIC BEACH NY
[SIZE=+3]Frequently Asked Questions[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+2]Samsung Galaxy Note 3 (SM-N900T)[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]This a short list of frequently asked questions in this device forum and the answers often given as a response. It should serve as a starting point for gathering knowledge and finding solutions to many common problems. Please only post in this thread with feedback on how to improve this document. Do not post "Thank you" type responses. If you have additional questions or require more help, try to find an existing thread or create your own.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]Q1: What is adb?[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]Q2: How do I root my phone?[/SIZE]
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2467369 Root using simple 30sec CF-Auto-Root (Knox 0x1)​
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2484223 Root using Root de la Vega (Knox 0x0)​

[SIZE=+1]Q3: My device is encrypted, how do I remove the encryption because I can't flash new Roms? [/SIZE]
If you do not have or have forgot your password, you can only factory reset your phone to remove encryption.​

[SIZE=+1]Q4: Will rooting affect my battery life?[/SIZE]
No simply rooting the phone should not hamper battery life.​

[SIZE=+1]Q5: What is the best ROM?[/SIZE]
There is no best ROM for all users, depends on personal needs and preferences. best to pick a few which look like they meet your needs, and try them out..​

[SIZE=+1]Q6: How do I return to stock?[/SIZE]
You can download the stock rom and return to stock using updated ODIN / http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2465764

[SIZE=+1]Q7: Can I use my SGN3 on other networks?[/SIZE]
At this time you can request a sim unlock from T-Mobile and use on networks with a sim that have same network towers.​

[SIZE=+1]Q8: Can I flash a new recovery without rebooting my GNOTE 3?[/SIZE]
Yes. Place the recovery.img on your sdcard root. Open a terminal emulator and type "su flash_image recovery /sdcard/xxx.img". (Note: The x's are the name of the recovery as some may hold a different name. If not on the sdcard root folder, specify the folder /sdcard/xxx/xxx.img!)​

[SIZE=+1]Q9: Will rooting my device void my warranty?[/SIZE]
Yes. If you have a T-Mobile Galaxy Note 3 it will void your warranty. If you have another variation in other countries, then you will need to check your Terms Of Service with your provider.​

[SIZE=+1]Q10: How do I use the Sideload function?[/SIZE]
Install a recovery that has sideload functionality.Choose Sideload in recovery. Update the Android SDK to the newest version. Use the command " ADB Sideload (path to where the .zip you want to install is).​


[SIZE=+1]Q11: How do I get to the Developer options to enable Debug mode?[/SIZE]
On your handset, click on menu>settings> General Tab > about device. Then scroll down to Build Number and keep tapping. It will give you messages like "5 more steps until you are a developer" Then it will open the developer option. Back out and click developer options and then USB Debugging.​

[SIZE=+1]Q12: I'm having a problem rooting with Odin. What is the easiest way?[/SIZE]
If you are having issues, try updating your version of ODIN and also downloading the .tar file from an alternate source".​

[SIZE=+1]Q13: What is a "logcat" and how do I create one? [/SIZE]
For setting up ADB see What is ADB (above) logcat allows us to log what the OS is doing, and possibly offer information if things are not working. its quite simple to create but may be difficult for most to understand. This is a tool a Developer may ask for in detecting issues your device may be encountering.

To use logcat

Code:
adb shell
logcat
To logcat to a certain file do

Code:
adb shell
logcat -d > /sdcard/whatevertexfileyoulike.txt
For a full explanation follow the link in What is ADB​

[SIZE=+1]Q14: What is KNOX, and how does it affect me?[/SIZE]
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2478391 This is a thread by Lawalty explaining what KNOX is.​

[SIZE=+1]Q15: I have gps issues. Why can't I lock onto GPS?[/SIZE]
Some roms have "time" issues with getting a gps lock. This is a known issue with all custom Roms.​

[SIZE=+1]Q16: How do I get the best out of my Rom?[/SIZE]
Depending on what Rom you choose. Once you go to the "THEME" sections there are many more mods for your selected rom. Always try different Roms to fit your liking.​

[SIZE=+1]Q17: Titanium Backup ask if I would like to restore my original ID Code after I flash roms, what should I do.?[/SIZE]
Do to the mass amount of custom roms, some internel phone setting get changed by default. You should always restore ID codes and native handset information when possible.​

[SIZE=+1]Q18: How loud is too loud?[/SIZE]
That realistically is up to you. Rule of thumb, if your sounds is distorted, even the least bit, then lower the settings. Distortion is a warning sign, and prolonged use can damage your hardware.​

[SIZE=+1]Q19: I have about 4gb of data missing from internal storage I cannot find. Where is it?[/SIZE]
Recovery uses a large amount of data for backups. TWRP saves by default, backups to the /sdcard/twrp or /sdcard/0/twrp directory. Make sure you delete old or unused backups.​

[SIZE=+1]Q20: I need to return my rooted phone for a replacement. Does returning to stock work?[/SIZE]
Yes. Follow the instructions on the forum for unrooting and flash the Odin stock file. If you flash an earlier version, make sure to accept updates to get your phone back to factory. Knox 0x1 will affect rather your warranty will be honored​

[SIZE=+1]Q21: What is so different about the Galaxy Note 3 that should get me to upgrade from the Note 2?[/SIZE]
Other then the hardware and screen upgrades, you can read the the 45+ Ultra-Advanced Features of the Note 3 found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2441935 Thread by Ipsuvedi​

[SIZE=+1]Q22: While restoring using Titanium Backup, I get constant FC's. How do I fix this?[/SIZE]
The TB Team is working on a fix for the SELinux links in the new system. For the time being, everytime you restore apps using TB you will need to run TB Restore Fixer found here

[SIZE=+1]Q23: Does restoring in recovery break my phone? I fear the "brickloops"!?[/SIZE]
Not with TWRP version 2.6.3.5 <<CLICK - problems existed with earlier versions but basic restores (boot, system, data) are now working as they should. Thanks to dwitherell for the Q&A​



'This FAQ is part of a Recognized Contributor Group Initiative. Please look for a similar FAQ thread when visiting another device forum.'
A special thanks to everyone who contributed to the production of this FAQ
*

Forum Rules | New Users Guide | XDA Tour | Report Posts
You are def a very patient man. You are very helpful and a great deal of help to many. Thank you



TWEAKED N3
 
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fonfreak

Member
Aug 19, 2010
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Upgrading to kit kat

Using Odin 3.09 to update to kit Kat stock my Com port is not at 11 as the picture shown.. in upgrading to kit Kat. It's Com 4 does this matter...
 

Misterjunky

Senior Member
Jan 18, 2011
9,448
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Bakersfield, California
KitKat 4.4.2 Official Stock odin firmware No signal

I just Odin flashed "N900TUVUCNB4_N900TTMBCNB4_N900TUVUCNB4_HOME.tar"
Kitkat 4.4.2 stock official rom (I checked the md5 and it's perfect)

It flashed without any errors at all but I have no signal, when I go to setup>General>About
the baseband displays "unknown". The odin log file shows no errors at all, it finished properly.

When I go to Setting>Connections>more networks and I click it, a box pops up saying
"insert SIM card to access connections".

Instead of a signal bar in the status bar I see a circle with a / through it.
My phone is a T-mobile N900T ? USA version.
Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks in advance.
 

dracula8275

Senior Member
Feb 22, 2012
352
92
0
Hi friends, actually i'm using sgs2 but will change it soon with note3. Read the faq, but i' m a little confused because all the terms here are little bit differents. I want to ask about the root methods. Saw that i can use two methods. Is there a possibility to brick the phone? I want only root the phone without change the kernel, so i have to use the cf - root, correct? In this case i will not have the cwm recovery, can i flash it after? And will i lose the waranty? In the second metho that are the difference? I 'll have the cwm? Thank you in advance and i apologise if this is not the rigth topic.

Sent from my GT-N5100 using Tapatalk 2
 

dragonstalker

Senior Member
Jan 1, 2008
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Fort Myers, Fla
I just Odin flashed "N900TUVUCNB4_N900TTMBCNB4_N900TUVUCNB4_HOME.tar"
Kitkat 4.4.2 stock official rom (I checked the md5 and it's perfect)

It flashed without any errors at all but I have no signal, when I go to setup>General>About
the baseband displays "unknown". The odin log file shows no errors at all, it finished properly.

When I go to Setting>Connections>more networks and I click it, a box pops up saying
"insert SIM card to access connections".

Instead of a signal bar in the status bar I see a circle with a / through it.
My phone is a T-mobile N900T ? USA version.
Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks in advance.
Another user asked this question. Look thru this section for no signal after upgrade. there's a link to the file you need
 

dragonstalker

Senior Member
Jan 1, 2008
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Fort Myers, Fla
Hi friends, actually i'm using sgs2 but will change it soon with note3. Read the faq, but i' m a little confused because all the terms here are little bit differents. I want to ask about the root methods. Saw that i can use two methods. Is there a possibility to brick the phone? I want only root the phone without change the kernel, so i have to use the cf - root, correct? In this case i will not have the cwm recovery, can i flash it after? And will i lose the waranty? In the second metho that are the difference? I 'll have the cwm? Thank you in advance and i apologise if this is not the rigth topic.

Sent from my GT-N5100 using Tapatalk 2
These are decision making questions. my advice would be to go thru the site and read everything you can about the Note 3 before you actually receive your handset. There are alot of great tips and how-to's found across the forum. The people here are very knowledgeable and helpful
 
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HothTron

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Mar 13, 2014
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These are decision making questions. my advice would be to go thru the site and read everything you can about the Note 3 before you actually receive your handset. There are alot of great tips and how-to's found across the forum. The people here are very knowledgeable and helpful
Dragon isn't one of them, he just tells you to use Google
 

dracula8275

Senior Member
Feb 22, 2012
352
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Dragon isn't one of them, he just tells you to use Google
Ok, but will someone answer the few questions? I know the xda members are great people, for 2 years was helped and i helped in the sgs2 thresds. Thsnk you in advance


SGS 2, JellySNAP ROM [v7]
Dorimanx 8.43 [76]
 

dragonstalker

Senior Member
Jan 1, 2008
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Fort Myers, Fla
Hi friends, actually i'm using sgs2 but will change it soon with note3. Read the faq, but i' m a little confused because all the terms here are little bit differents. I want to ask about the root methods. Saw that i can use two methods. Is there a possibility to brick the phone? I want only root the phone without change the kernel, so i have to use the cf - root, correct? In this case i will not have the cwm recovery, can i flash it after? And will i lose the waranty? In the second metho that are the difference? I 'll have the cwm? Thank you in advance and i apologise if this is not the rigth topic.

Sent from my GT-N5100 using Tapatalk 2
Yes, there's already the possibility to brick a phone if not following procedures. Using CF_Autoroot will trip your Knox counter to 0x1 voiding your warranty. If you are on 4.3 still you can use the De La Vega Mode to not trip it. Anytime you flash a custom recovery you will have Knox issues. Both Twrp and Philz Touch (CWM) are good recoveries. Just depends on what you are most comfortable with.
 
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dragonstalker

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If I put NB4 into mobile odin will I get the 4.4 bootloader? I dont have pc or mac.. sorry for the newb ?

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
THIS IS FROM THE MOBILE ODIN DESCRIPTION!

Description
Mobile ODIN is the on-device firmware flasher of choice. Just throw those firmware files on your (internal or external) SD card, start Mobile ODIN and flash away.
! Your device must be rooted to be able to use Mobile ODIN. Check the list below to see if your device is supported !
If you use the EverRoot option, Mobile ODIN will root the firmware while you flash it. Checking out that new leaked firmware? No reason to lose root!

Flashing with Mobile ODIN does NOT increase your custom kernel flash counter or make the yellow warning triangle appear.
For discussion and support: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1347899
- MANUAL -
Flashing with Mobile ODIN is easy. You start by starting the app and the app will check your system has everything it needs to continue (like root). It may need to download an additional package, so it is advised you have Wi-Fi available.
Now you should see the main Mobile ODIN screen. It will list a set of partitions. Clicking a partition will allow you to select a file from your SD card to flash to that partition. Do not worry about selecting the wrong file - Mobile ODIN will not let you. Separate files (named after the partition) as well as .tar and .tar.md5 files are supported.
From the desktop ODIN you may be used to "PDA", "PHONE", and "CSC" buttons. All three of these buttons have been replaced by the "Open file ..." button. This button will open the file you select from the SD card, and find all the partitions it can flash inside that file. So if you select a .tar file containing kernel and modem, the Kernel and Modem partitions will be set up to use that .tar file for flashing.
Now that we have selected what we want to flash, if you have the Pro version you can proceed to the EverRoot section. The EverRoot options allows you to root your firmware while it is being flashed. Never again will you be without root! Select here which apps you want to inject in the firmware that is being flashed.
Now that we are all done selecting partitions and configuring EverRoot, we continue to "Flash firmware". Mobile ODIN will gather all the information it needs and perform the flash. Before starting, however, it will check that your battery level is over 50%, and if applicable offer to verify MD5 checksums on the files you have selected to flash. If all is well, it will reboot into recovery mode, and flash the firmware you have selected.
 
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NJaynAZ

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Nov 23, 2012
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When I open mobile odin pro the option is open file. When I open the nb4 file it says I need ro extract, is that right? Partion is Grey out.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
 

Max_Pain

Senior Member
Oct 29, 2006
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Miami, FL
I have what I suspect are noob questions, which annoys me because i've been doing this for too damn long to be asking noob questions. Thought i'd post here rather than start a new thread.

1) How can I get the weather on the lockscreen? I have it selected, I have it set to refresh every hour. I have pattern lock and it doesn't show. When I disable pattern lock and just leave the swipe lock it also doesn't show. What am I missing here?:silly: - Using Chronus works great, so that's that.

2) Is it normal that MMS don't go out or come in unless I'm off WiFi? It's very annoying. This is my second Note 3 (first one got some issues) and my wife also has a Note 3. She's fully stock, unrooted, stock launcher using GoSMS. I'm rooted on stock, using GoLauncher and Handcent. Neither one of us can send or receive unless we're off WiFi.

3) Why did I imagine we had some advanced video recording features? I was sure we had slow motion recording and went to do a video yesterday and there's barely any settings for video recording. Was that on the Note 2 (which I had before) or did I imagine this? Figured it out, click on the > on the camera screen and then the camcorder button.

4) I got Developer Mode unlocked. Anything useful I should be enabling in there beyond USB Debugging?

Thanks.
 
Last edited:

dragonstalker

Senior Member
Jan 1, 2008
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0
Fort Myers, Fla
I have what I suspect are noob questions, which annoys me because i've been doing this for too damn long to be asking noob questions. Thought i'd post here rather than start a new thread.

1) How can I get the weather on the lockscreen? I have it selected, I have it set to refresh every hour. I have pattern lock and it doesn't show. When I disable pattern lock and just leave the swipe lock it also doesn't show. What am I missing here?:silly:

2) Is it normal that MMS don't go out or come in unless I'm off WiFi? It's very annoying. This is my second Note 3 (first one got some issues) and my wife also has a Note 3. She's fully stock, unrooted, stock launcher using GoSMS. I'm rooted on stock, using GoLauncher and Handcent. Neither one of us can send or receive unless we're off WiFi.

3) Why did I imagine we had some advanced video recording features? I was sure we had slow motion recording and went to do a video yesterday and there's barely any settings for video recording. Was that on the Note 2 (which I had before) or did I imagine this?

4) I got Developer Mode unlocked. Anything useful I should be enabling in there beyond USB Debugging?

Thanks.
Sir, yes, your questions are normal. Developer mode in most cases with roms are needed or expected. I cannot say which, as i don't know what your running. Video recording is best with Sammy stock as it's made for this phone. The weather widgets, i might add pretty much are out of our control. I hope i have helped you. And sorry for the late respose. I have a crap load of stuff going on with the launch of GS5 and M8. Sorry guys.
 

Max_Pain

Senior Member
Oct 29, 2006
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Miami, FL
I'm not sure I understand your answer.
I'm on stock and I unlocked Developer Mode myself. I'm asking what the options in there do and if any one in specific should be enabled. The only one used by custom kernels and such is the USB Debugging. I want to know about the rest. Your answer really says nothing to that effect.

As far as video recording, it's way too simple to be best to stick with the stock software. I already saw the need for the modified apk to allow longer than 5 minutes 4K recording. But I want more features. I refuse to believe iPhone has slow motion and we don't, for one.

I knew I wasn't crazy. I just forgot to RTFM. You click on the > on the camera screen and then you click on the camcorder icon and you can choose a variety of recording methods, including Slow Motion, Fast Motion, Smooth Motion, etc.:D
 
Last edited:

sojibr86

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Apr 16, 2014
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Answer

[SIZE=+3]Frequently Asked Questions[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+2]Samsung Galaxy Note 3 (SM-N900T)[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]This a short list of frequently asked questions in this device forum and the answers often given as a response. It should serve as a starting point for gathering knowledge and finding solutions to many common problems. Please only post in this thread with feedback on how to improve this document. Do not post "Thank you" type responses. If you have additional questions or require more help, try to find an existing thread or create your own.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]Q1: What is adb?[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]Q2: How do I root my phone?[/SIZE]
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2467369 Root using simple 30sec CF-Auto-Root (Knox 0x1)​
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2484223 Root using Root de la Vega (Knox 0x0)​

[SIZE=+1]Q3: My device is encrypted, how do I remove the encryption because I can't flash new Roms? [/SIZE]
If you do not have or have forgot your password, you can only factory reset your phone to remove encryption.​

[SIZE=+1]Q4: Will rooting affect my battery life?[/SIZE]
No simply rooting the phone should not hamper battery life.​

[SIZE=+1]Q5: What is the best ROM?[/SIZE]
There is no best ROM for all users, depends on personal needs and preferences. best to pick a few which look like they meet your needs, and try them out..​

[SIZE=+1]Q6: How do I return to stock?[/SIZE]
You can download the stock rom and return to stock using updated ODIN / http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2465764

[SIZE=+1]Q7: Can I use my SGN3 on other networks?[/SIZE]
At this time you can request a sim unlock from T-Mobile and use on networks with a sim that have same network towers.​

[SIZE=+1]Q8: Can I flash a new recovery without rebooting my GNOTE 3?[/SIZE]
Yes. Place the recovery.img on your sdcard root. Open a terminal emulator and type "su flash_image recovery /sdcard/xxx.img". (Note: The x's are the name of the recovery as some may hold a different name. If not on the sdcard root folder, specify the folder /sdcard/xxx/xxx.img!)​

[SIZE=+1]Q9: Will rooting my device void my warranty?[/SIZE]
Yes. If you have a T-Mobile Galaxy Note 3 it will void your warranty. If you have another variation in other countries, then you will need to check your Terms Of Service with your provider.​

[SIZE=+1]Q10: How do I use the Sideload function?[/SIZE]
Install a recovery that has sideload functionality.Choose Sideload in recovery. Update the Android SDK to the newest version. Use the command " ADB Sideload (path to where the .zip you want to install is).​


[SIZE=+1]Q11: How do I get to the Developer options to enable Debug mode?[/SIZE]
On your handset, click on menu>settings> General Tab > about device. Then scroll down to Build Number and keep tapping. It will give you messages like "5 more steps until you are a developer" Then it will open the developer option. Back out and click developer options and then USB Debugging.​

[SIZE=+1]Q12: I'm having a problem rooting with Odin. What is the easiest way?[/SIZE]
If you are having issues, try updating your version of ODIN and also downloading the .tar file from an alternate source".​

[SIZE=+1]Q13: What is a "logcat" and how do I create one? [/SIZE]
For setting up ADB see What is ADB (above) logcat allows us to log what the OS is doing, and possibly offer information if things are not working. its quite simple to create but may be difficult for most to understand. This is a tool a Developer may ask for in detecting issues your device may be encountering.

To use logcat

Code:
adb shell
logcat
To logcat to a certain file do

Code:
adb shell
logcat -d > /sdcard/whatevertexfileyoulike.txt
For a full explanation follow the link in What is ADB​

[SIZE=+1]Q14: What is KNOX, and how does it affect me?[/SIZE]
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2478391 This is a thread by Lawalty explaining what KNOX is.​

[SIZE=+1]Q15: I have gps issues. Why can't I lock onto GPS?[/SIZE]
Some roms have "time" issues with getting a gps lock. This is a known issue with all custom Roms.​

[SIZE=+1]Q16: How do I get the best out of my Rom?[/SIZE]
Depending on what Rom you choose. Once you go to the "THEME" sections there are many more mods for your selected rom. Always try different Roms to fit your liking.​

[SIZE=+1]Q17: Titanium Backup ask if I would like to restore my original ID Code after I flash roms, what should I do.?[/SIZE]
Do to the mass amount of custom roms, some internel phone setting get changed by default. You should always restore ID codes and native handset information when possible.​

[SIZE=+1]Q18: How loud is too loud?[/SIZE]
That realistically is up to you. Rule of thumb, if your sounds is distorted, even the least bit, then lower the settings. Distortion is a warning sign, and prolonged use can damage your hardware.​

[SIZE=+1]Q19: I have about 4gb of data missing from internal storage I cannot find. Where is it?[/SIZE]
Recovery uses a large amount of data for backups. TWRP saves by default, backups to the /sdcard/twrp or /sdcard/0/twrp directory. Make sure you delete old or unused backups.​

[SIZE=+1]Q20: I need to return my rooted phone for a replacement. Does returning to stock work?[/SIZE]
Yes. Follow the instructions on the forum for unrooting and flash the Odin stock file. If you flash an earlier version, make sure to accept updates to get your phone back to factory. Knox 0x1 will affect rather your warranty will be honored​

[SIZE=+1]Q21: What is so different about the Galaxy Note 3 that should get me to upgrade from the Note 2?[/SIZE]
Other then the hardware and screen upgrades, you can read the the 45+ Ultra-Advanced Features of the Note 3 found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2441935 Thread by Ipsuvedi​

[SIZE=+1]Q22: While restoring using Titanium Backup, I get constant FC's. How do I fix this?[/SIZE]
The TB Team is working on a fix for the SELinux links in the new system. For the time being, everytime you restore apps using TB you will need to run TB Restore Fixer found here

[SIZE=+1]Q23: Does restoring in recovery break my phone? I fear the "brickloops"!?[/SIZE]
Not with TWRP version 2.6.3.5 <<CLICK - problems existed with earlier versions but basic restores (boot, system, data) are now working as they should. Thanks to dwitherell for the Q&A​



'This FAQ is part of a Recognized Contributor Group Initiative. Please look for a similar FAQ thread when visiting another device forum.'
A special thanks to everyone who contributed to the production of this FAQ
*

Forum Rules | New Users Guide | XDA Tour | Report Posts
Nice FAQ. It is very helpful to new user. thanks