summaryrefslogtreecommitdiff
path: root/docs/FAQ
diff options
context:
space:
mode:
authorRobert Hak <adiamas@rockbox.org>2003-02-20 21:49:02 +0000
committerRobert Hak <adiamas@rockbox.org>2003-02-20 21:49:02 +0000
commit6bb1af05ac7995fc8a35e3d3bff51049c2d95e08 (patch)
treeee0b644830dd41f5021e02dfdd32650be69d45e6 /docs/FAQ
parent8bd055b3eabfadde89bbbb3eb680ec31e4ae3a00 (diff)
downloadrockbox-6bb1af05ac7995fc8a35e3d3bff51049c2d95e08.tar.gz
rockbox-6bb1af05ac7995fc8a35e3d3bff51049c2d95e08.zip
various updates
git-svn-id: svn://svn.rockbox.org/rockbox/trunk@3309 a1c6a512-1295-4272-9138-f99709370657
Diffstat (limited to 'docs/FAQ')
-rw-r--r--docs/FAQ274
1 files changed, 128 insertions, 146 deletions
diff --git a/docs/FAQ b/docs/FAQ
index 5e3769f0e1..f80108f8eb 100644
--- a/docs/FAQ
+++ b/docs/FAQ
@@ -31,73 +31,57 @@ A7. Start by reading up on the information about the jukeboxes on our web page.
31 Then go into CVS and look at the code we've written. Then take what you 31 Then go into CVS and look at the code we've written. Then take what you
32 need and start writing. 32 need and start writing.
33 33
34Q8. Okay, so how do I submit a patch? 34Q8. I want to join the development team, but don't have a SourceForge account,
35A8. Run: "diff -ub oldfile newfile > patchfile" against the file(s) you have
36 changed. Then submit the patch to the project via Sourceforge's patch
37 tracker. See: http://sourceforge.net/tracker/?group_id=44306&atid=439120
38 Your patch will be taken under consideration. Please remember that all
39 submissions are not automatically accepted. This is nothing personal.
40
41 Preferrably, run the diff against the current cvs code:
42 cvs diff -ub > patchfile
43
44 One last note. We would appreciate it if *all* patches, files and fixes
45 that are meant for inclusion in the sources would be posted to the patch
46 tracker. Patches sent to the mailing list are quickly lost in the
47 traffic of the list itself. (And looking back in the archives for
48 missed patches quickly becomes a nightmare.)
49
50Q9. I want to join the development team, but don't have a SourceForge account,
51 what should I do? 35 what should I do?
52A9. You don't need a SourceForge account to help developing Rockbox. Just 36A8. You don't need a SourceForge account to help developing Rockbox. Just
53 submit patches as per the instructions above. 37 submit patches (http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/patch.html)
54 38
55 If your patches are consistently well-written and thus accepted, you may 39 If your patches are consistently well-written and thus accepted, you may
56 ultimately be offered CVS commit access. If that should happen, you will 40 ultimately be offered CVS commit access. If that should happen, you will
57 need to get a Sourceforge account: 41 need to get a Sourceforge account:
58 http://sourceforge.net/account/register.php 42 http://sourceforge.net/account/register.php
59 43
60Q10. Do you have a mailing list? 44Q9. Do you have a mailing list?
61A10. Sure do! As a matter of fact, we have several of them for specific 45A9. Sure do! As a matter of fact, we have several of them for specific
62 things. Please check out: http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/ 46 things. Please check out: http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/
63 47
64Q11. Great you have a mailing list! Is there anyway for me to catch up on 48Q10. Great you have a mailing list! Is there anyway for me to catch up on
65 past posts? 49 past posts?
66A11. Check out the archives at: http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/ 50A10. Check out the archives at: http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/
67 51
68Q12. How can I meet the developers working on the project? 52Q11. How can I meet the developers working on the project?
69A12. One way is by visiting us on IRC. Head on over to the server 53A11. One way is by visiting us on IRC. Head on over to the server
70 irc.openprojects.net, and then join "#rockbox". There is usually at 54 irc.openprojects.net, and then join "#rockbox". There is usually at
71 least one person there. If you don't see any activity, feel free to post 55 least one person there. If you don't see any activity, feel free to post
72 questions anyway, serveral of us log the channel and will get you answers 56 questions anyway, serveral of us log the channel and will get you answers
73 when we unidle. 57 when we unidle.
74 58
75Q13: Wow, you guys talk on IRC alot? I wish I had been around for those 59Q12: Wow, you guys talk on IRC alot? I wish I had been around for those
76 conversations to see what happened. 60 conversations to see what happened.
77A13: We are glad you mentioned that! http://rockbox.haxx.se/irc happens 61A12: We are glad you mentioned that! http://rockbox.haxx.se/irc happens
78 to have a list of various logs we have recorded of events in the channel. 62 to have a list of various logs we have recorded of events in the channel.
79 Feel free to read up, and ask questions on what you find. 63 Feel free to read up, and ask questions on what you find.
80 64
81Q14. What is this "SourceForge" you keep mentioning? 65Q13. What is this "SourceForge" you keep mentioning?
82A14. http://www.sourceforge.net 66A13. http://www.sourceforge.net
83 67
84Q15. Can the changes or the software that Rockbox suggests or offers 68Q14. Can the changes or the software that Rockbox suggests or offers
85 possibly damage my Archos Player? 69 possibly damage my Archos Player?
86A15. All firmware mods that are presented are still highly experimental. 70A14. All firmware mods that are presented are still highly experimental.
87 Try them at your own risk. We offer no guarantee that this software, or 71 Try them at your own risk. We offer no guarantee that this software, or
88 the hardware modifications we show, will not damage your player or void 72 the hardware modifications we show, will not damage your player or void
89 your warranty. That said, we have not been able to damage any of our 73 your warranty. That said, we have not been able to damage any of our
90 units by modifying only the firmware. You can accidentally password 74 units by modifying only the firmware. You can accidentally password
91 protect your harddisk, but there are ways around that. (See below.) 75 protect your harddisk, but there are ways around that. (See below.)
92 76
93Q16. I want to see what the inside of my player looks like, but I would really 77Q15. I want to see what the inside of my player looks like, but I would really
94 like to avoid voiding my warranty. Is there anything you can suggest? 78 like to avoid voiding my warranty. Is there anything you can suggest?
95A16. We have a collection of photos of both the player and recorder. Look at 79A15. We have a collection of photos of both the player and recorder. Look at
96 http://rockbox.haxx.se/internals/ 80 http://rockbox.haxx.se/internals/
97 81
98Q17. What exactly are you trying to achieve with this line of development? 82Q16. What exactly are you trying to achieve with this line of development?
99 (A.K.A. whats your purpose for being here?) 83 (A.K.A. whats your purpose for being here?)
100A17. Firstly, we wouldn't start something like this if we didn't simply enjoy 84A16. Firstly, we wouldn't start something like this if we didn't simply enjoy
101 it profusely. This is great fun! 85 it profusely. This is great fun!
102 Secondly, we feel the firmware is lacking some features and contain a 86 Secondly, we feel the firmware is lacking some features and contain a
103 number of annoying bugs that we want to fix. 87 number of annoying bugs that we want to fix.
@@ -125,9 +109,9 @@ A17. Firstly, we wouldn't start something like this if we didn't simply enjoy
125 being on the list does not mean it isn't a neat idea. Bring it to 109 being on the list does not mean it isn't a neat idea. Bring it to
126 the list. 110 the list.
127 111
128Q18. You mention supporting Ogg Vorbis and other file types on your list of 112Q17. You mention supporting Ogg Vorbis and other file types on your list of
129 ideas. What is the status on that? 113 ideas. What is the status on that?
130A18. Pessimist's Answer: At the current time we believe this is not very 114A17. Pessimist's Answer: At the current time we believe this is not very
131 likely. The Micronas chip (MAS3507) decoder in the archos does not 115 likely. The Micronas chip (MAS3507) decoder in the archos does not
132 natively support decoding and there is very little program space in the 116 natively support decoding and there is very little program space in the
133 player to implement it ourselves. The alternative would be to write a 117 player to implement it ourselves. The alternative would be to write a
@@ -148,43 +132,43 @@ A18. Pessimist's Answer: At the current time we believe this is not very
148 but we only have 4 KB for both code *and* data. So the grim reality is 132 but we only have 4 KB for both code *and* data. So the grim reality is
149 that Ogg will never be supported by the Archos Players and Recorders. 133 that Ogg will never be supported by the Archos Players and Recorders.
150 134
151Q19. What about supporting playing of WMA files? 135Q18. What about supporting playing of WMA files?
152A19. Dear Mr. Gates, you have two options. Re-read question #18, or go buy 136A18. Dear Mr. Gates, you have two options. Re-read question #18, or go buy
153 your own project. 137 your own project.
154 138
155Q20: But you don't understand, I'm not talking about decoding here, 139Q19: But you don't understand, I'm not talking about decoding here,
156 since the data we want may already be in the decoded format (PCM). 140 since the data we want may already be in the decoded format (PCM).
157A20: Okay, last time. No. We have no problems whatsoever reading different 141A19: Okay, last time. No. We have no problems whatsoever reading different
158 file formats, call it PCM, WAV, GRI, PQR or whatever. The problem is 142 file formats, call it PCM, WAV, GRI, PQR or whatever. The problem is
159 that the CODEC only accepts MP3 data and nothing else. We could write a 143 that the CODEC only accepts MP3 data and nothing else. We could write a
160 new CODEC if we knew how to do it, but there is no documentation on the 144 new CODEC if we knew how to do it, but there is no documentation on the
161 DSP. Please note that we have no access to the DAC, so we can't send the 145 DSP. Please note that we have no access to the DAC, so we can't send the
162 data directly to the DAC. 146 data directly to the DAC.
163 147
164Q21. What is the most recent version of Rockbox? 148Q20. What is the most recent version of Rockbox?
165A21. We recently released version 1.4, so head on over to 149A20. We recently released version 1.4, so head on over to
166 http://rockbox.haxx.se/download/ and pull it down. 150 http://rockbox.haxx.se/download/ and pull it down.
167 Make sure to read the release notes. 151 Make sure to read the release notes.
168 (http://rockbox.haxx.se/download/rockbox-1.4-notes.txt). 152 (http://rockbox.haxx.se/download/rockbox-1.4-notes.txt).
169 153
170Q22. What do you plan to add to coming versions? 154Q21. What do you plan to add to coming versions?
171A22. We have a rough idea of which features we plan/expect/hope to be included 155A21. We have a rough idea of which features we plan/expect/hope to be included
172 in which versions. Once again, remember that none of this is written in 156 in which versions. Once again, remember that none of this is written in
173 stone (noticing a pattern yet?) 157 stone (noticing a pattern yet?)
174 158
175 Version 2.0 159 Version 2.0
176 Recording, Autobuild playlists, File/directory management 160 Recording, Autobuild playlists, File/directory management
177 161
178Q23. I tried one of your firmware files and now I can't access my harddisk! 162Q22. I tried one of your firmware files and now I can't access my harddisk!
179 When I turn on my jukebox, it says: 163 When I turn on my jukebox, it says:
180 Part. Error 164 Part. Error
181 Pls Chck HD 165 Pls Chck HD
182A23. Your harddisk has been password protected. We're not 100% sure why it 166A22. Your harddisk has been password protected. We're not 100% sure why it
183 happens, but you can unlock it yourself. Look at: 167 happens, but you can unlock it yourself. Look at:
184 http://rockbox.haxx.se/lock.html 168 http://rockbox.haxx.se/lock.html
185 169
186Q24: This FAQ doesn't answer the question I have. What should I do? 170Q23: This FAQ doesn't answer the question I have. What should I do?
187A24: You have a couple options here. You could forget the question, find an 171A23: You have a couple options here. You could forget the question, find an
188 easier question, or accept '42' as the answer no matter what. We don't 172 easier question, or accept '42' as the answer no matter what. We don't
189 really recommend any of these (though I do opt for '42' often myself). 173 really recommend any of these (though I do opt for '42' often myself).
190 What we do recommend is stopping by IRC, reading 174 What we do recommend is stopping by IRC, reading
@@ -193,43 +177,43 @@ A24: You have a couple options here. You could forget the question, find an
193 mailing list (rockbox@cool.haxx.se) or the FAQ maintainer listed on the 177 mailing list (rockbox@cool.haxx.se) or the FAQ maintainer listed on the
194 project homepage. 178 project homepage.
195 179
196Q25: Are there other ways to contact the developers? 180Q24: Are there other ways to contact the developers?
197A25: Yes. 181A24: Yes.
198 182
199Q26: Are you going to tell us what they are? 183Q25: Are you going to tell us what they are?
200A26: No. Post to the mailing list and we will get back to you. 184A25: No. Post to the mailing list and we will get back to you.
201 185
202Q27: But I _really_ want to talk with you in person. 186Q26: But I _really_ want to talk with you in person.
203A27: I'm sorry. My girlfriend/boyfriend/pet says I'm not allowed to, and the 187A26: I'm sorry. My girlfriend/boyfriend/pet says I'm not allowed to, and the
204 doctors here won't let me have pens or pencils. They say its some rule 188 doctors here won't let me have pens or pencils. They say its some rule
205 about us not having sharp objects. I'm sorry. Now please stop calling me 189 about us not having sharp objects. I'm sorry. Now please stop calling me
206 here. 190 here.
207 191
208Q28: Will you ever port Quake II to the Archos? 192Q27: Will you ever port Quake II to the Archos?
209A28: If you ask that again, I'm sending your address and phone number to the 193A27: If you ask that again, I'm sending your address and phone number to the
210 guy that mailed us with question #25. 194 guy that mailed us with question #24.
211 195
212Q29: Umm, was that sarcasm? 196Q28: Umm, was that sarcasm?
213A29: That's it, I'm mailing him now. 197A28: That's it, I'm mailing him now.
214 198
215Q30: Is this legal? I mean, I'd just hate to see something like that 199Q29: Is this legal? I mean, I'd just hate to see something like that
216 challenged under the DMCA in all its ridiculousness. Any thoughts or 200 challenged under the DMCA in all its ridiculousness. Any thoughts or
217 ideas? 201 ideas?
218A30: We believe we are in the green on this. We are not violating anyone's 202A29: We believe we are in the green on this. We are not violating anyone's
219 copyright and we are not circumventing any copy protection scheme. 203 copyright and we are not circumventing any copy protection scheme.
220 This has been a big point for the project since its inception. Some 204 This has been a big point for the project since its inception. Some
221 people wanted us to distribute patched versions of the original firmware, 205 people wanted us to distribute patched versions of the original firmware,
222 but seeing as that _would_ have violated Archos' copyright, we didn't 206 but seeing as that _would_ have violated Archos' copyright, we didn't
223 follow that course of action. 207 follow that course of action.
224 208
225Q31: On the website [and various information postings] you state 209Q30: On the website [and various information postings] you state
226 "Every tiny bit was reverse engineered, disassembled and then 210 "Every tiny bit was reverse engineered, disassembled and then
227 re-written from scratch". 211 re-written from scratch".
228 If it was rewritten from scratch then why was it first reverse-engineered 212 If it was rewritten from scratch then why was it first reverse-engineered
229 and disassembled? Instead this sounds more like someone disassembled it 213 and disassembled? Instead this sounds more like someone disassembled it
230 then used the understanding that they gained to create a new version, 214 then used the understanding that they gained to create a new version,
231 which is not quite the same as "from scratch". 215 which is not quite the same as "from scratch".
232A31: Don't confuse the terms. Reverse engineering means examining a product 216A30: Don't confuse the terms. Reverse engineering means examining a product
233 to find out how it works. Disassembling the firmware is merely one tool 217 to find out how it works. Disassembling the firmware is merely one tool
234 used in that examination. Oscilloscopes and logic analyzers are other 218 used in that examination. Oscilloscopes and logic analyzers are other
235 tools we have used. We have written every single byte of the Rockbox 219 tools we have used. We have written every single byte of the Rockbox
@@ -239,11 +223,11 @@ A31: Don't confuse the terms. Reverse engineering means examining a product
239 software without first researching the surrounding interfaces, then no 223 software without first researching the surrounding interfaces, then no
240 software has ever been written from scratch. 224 software has ever been written from scratch.
241 225
242Q32: Wait a minute here. When you released version 1.0 you did not have a 226Q31: Wait a minute here. When you released version 1.0 you did not have a
243 single one of the ideas you have mentioned on your website actually 227 single one of the ideas you have mentioned on your website actually
244 implimented! Calling this version 1.0 is really misleading. Whats the 228 implimented! Calling this version 1.0 is really misleading. Whats the
245 story?! 229 story?!
246A32: In simple terms, the first release was called 1.0 because it had a basic 230A31: In simple terms, the first release was called 1.0 because it had a basic
247 working feature set that worked and had no known bugs. That is what 1.0 231 working feature set that worked and had no known bugs. That is what 1.0
248 meant. It is true that Rockbox 1.0 lacked most of the feature set that 232 meant. It is true that Rockbox 1.0 lacked most of the feature set that
249 every sane user wanted. However, we never said it was more 233 every sane user wanted. However, we never said it was more
@@ -255,9 +239,9 @@ A32: In simple terms, the first release was called 1.0 because it had a basic
255 more recent releases we have completed many of our desired goals, and 239 more recent releases we have completed many of our desired goals, and
256 several new ones that were implimented to fullfill user requests. 240 several new ones that were implimented to fullfill user requests.
257 241
258Q33: I've heard talk of a 'Rolo'. What is that? (Or 'All you ever wanted 242Q32: I've heard talk of a 'Rolo'. What is that? (Or 'All you ever wanted
259 to know about Rockbox boot loaders') 243 to know about Rockbox boot loaders')
260A33: Rolo is our bootloader. Rolo became available with our 1.4 release. 244A32: Rolo is our bootloader. Rolo became available with our 1.4 release.
261 To make use of Rolo, you must have a file with the same extension as 245 To make use of Rolo, you must have a file with the same extension as
262 your Rockbox firmware (.ajz on Recorder, .mod on Player) but a different 246 your Rockbox firmware (.ajz on Recorder, .mod on Player) but a different
263 name. You can then browse to it, and you 'run' the other firmware 247 name. You can then browse to it, and you 'run' the other firmware
@@ -267,23 +251,27 @@ A33: Rolo is our bootloader. Rolo became available with our 1.4 release.
267 to Rockbox you may need to reboot manually if the new firmware you loaded 251 to Rockbox you may need to reboot manually if the new firmware you loaded
268 does not have a bootloader itself.) 252 does not have a bootloader itself.)
269 253
270Q34: Can I use the Archos as an USB harddisk to store data from my PDA/ 254Q33: Can I use the Archos as an USB harddisk to store data from my PDA/
271 digital camera/phone etc. 255 digital camera/phone etc.
272A34: No. USB is a master/slave protocol, and both the Archos and your device 256A33: No. USB is a master/slave protocol, and both the Archos and your device
273 are slaves. Two slaves cannot communicate without a master (usually a PC). 257 are slaves. Two slaves cannot communicate without a master (usually a PC).
274 (An upcoming extension called USB On-The-Go will let slaves communicate 258 (An upcoming extension called USB On-The-Go will let slaves communicate
275 without a master, but current Archoses will not be able to support that.) 259 without a master, but current Archoses will not be able to support that.)
276 260
277Q35: When I use RockBox my jukebox's red "error" light turns on a lot, but this 261Q34: When I use RockBox my jukebox's red "error" light turns on a lot, but this
278 doesn't happen on the factory firmware. Why? 262 doesn't happen on the factory firmware. Why?
279A35: Rockbox uses the red LED as harddisk activity light, not as an error 263A34: Rockbox uses the red LED as harddisk activity light, not as an error
280 light. Relax and enjoy the music. 264 light. Relax and enjoy the music.
281 265
282Q36: I have a question about the batteries... 266Q35: I have a question about the batteries...
283A36: STOP! We have put together a completely different FAQ for battery 267A35: STOP! We have put together a completely different FAQ for battery
284 related questions. 268 related questions.
285 Check out: http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/battery-faq.html 269 Check out: http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/battery-faq.html
286 270
271Q36. I have a question about patches...
272A36. Check out http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/patch.html as it should answer any
273 patch related questions you may have.
274
287Q37: What is the WPS? 275Q37: What is the WPS?
288A37: That is the 'While Playing Screen'. Basically this is what is shown on 276A37: That is the 'While Playing Screen'. Basically this is what is shown on
289 your player's display while we are playing your song. 277 your player's display while we are playing your song.
@@ -295,51 +283,45 @@ A38: It is very good if you want information about the current item playing ;)
295 a feature that's not there, we are _always_ open to suggestions!) 283 a feature that's not there, we are _always_ open to suggestions!)
296 Please see http://rockbox.haxx.se/manual/wps.html for information. 284 Please see http://rockbox.haxx.se/manual/wps.html for information.
297 285
298Q39: So how do I load/make a .wps file? 286Q40: So how do I load/make a .wps file?
299A39: You check out http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/custom_wps_format.html to learn 287A40: You check out http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/custom_wps_format.html to learn
300 the format/features of a .wps file, and you visit 288 the format/features of a .wps file, and you visit
301 http://rockbox.haxx.se/manual/wps.html to learn how to load it ;) 289 http://rockbox.haxx.se/manual/wps.html to learn how to load it ;)
302 290
303Q40: Does Rockbox support other languages? 291Q41: Does Rockobx support other languages? How do I load/use different
304A40: Sure do. See the next question. 292 languages?
305 293A41: See: http://rockbox.haxx.se/lang
306Q41: How do I load/use different languages? (Recorder-only)
307A41: In the sense of brevity (wouldn't that be a first), check out:
308 http://rockbox.haxx.se/lang
309
310Q42: Why can't I use other languages on the Player?
311A42: See the answer to question 45.
312 294
313Q43: Does Rockbox support other fonts/character sets? 295Q42: Does Rockbox support other fonts/character sets?
314A43: Yuppers. See the next question. 296A42: Recorders do, Players don't.
315 297
316Q44: How do I use the loadable fonts? (Recorder-only) 298Q43: How do I use the loadable fonts?
317A44: That's and easy one. To use a loadable font you load it. 299A43: If you own a Recorder see: http://rockbox.haxx.se/fonts/ Players
318 For less sarcasm check out: http://rockbox.haxx.se/fonts/ 300 cannot make use of loadable fonts.
319 301
320Q45: Why can't I use loadable fonts on the Player? 302Q44: Why can't I use loadable fonts on the Player?
321A45: This is because the Player font is character cell based (as opposed to 303A44: This is because the Player font is character cell based (as opposed to
322 the Recorder's bitmap based display). This 304 the Recorder's bitmap based display). This
323 means that we are able to choose what characters to display, but not how 305 means that we are able to choose what characters to display, but not how
324 to display them. We do have the ability to change/create up to 4 chars 306 to display them. We do have the ability to change/create up to 4 chars
325 on one model and 8 on another, however we are currently using several of 307 on one model and 8 on another, however we are currently using several of
326 these 'letters' to store icons for the player. 308 these 'letters' to store icons for the player.
327 309
328Q46: Why don't you have any games available for the Players? 310Q45: Why don't you have any games available for the Players?
329A46: The display on the Players is character cell and not bitmap based. 311A45: The display on the Players is character cell and not bitmap based.
330 This means we can only control what characters get displayed, not 312 This means we can only control what characters get displayed, not
331 what pixels are shown. This makes the prospect of game play very 313 what pixels are shown. This makes the prospect of game play very
332 slim (at least for anything involving graphics, so if you have text 314 slim (at least for anything involving graphics, so if you have text
333 based games that only use 2 lines send them on in!). 315 based games that only use 2 lines send them on in!).
334 316
335Q47: I keep shutting off my player in my pocket. Can the OFF (Recorder) or 317Q46: I keep shutting off my player in my pocket. Can the OFF (Recorder) or
336 STOP (Player) key be locked? 318 STOP (Player) key be locked?
337A47: No. Unfortunately, the ON/OFF mechanisms are handled entirely in 319A46: No. Unfortunately, the ON/OFF mechanisms are handled entirely in
338 hardware. The firmware can read the keys, but can't prevent them from 320 hardware. The firmware can read the keys, but can't prevent them from
339 shutting off the player. 321 shutting off the player.
340 322
341Q48: Where's the recording option? Why can't I record?!! 323Q47: Where's the recording option? Why can't I record?!!
342A48: I'd like to say we hid it because we don't like you, but you seem to be 324A47: I'd like to say we hid it because we don't like you, but you seem to be
343 a good person so here's the truth. It's just not implimented in Rockbox 325 a good person so here's the truth. It's just not implimented in Rockbox
344 yet. But stress not, you can still use Rolo to boot the default Archos 326 yet. But stress not, you can still use Rolo to boot the default Archos
345 firmware and record from there. (Check out question #33). 327 firmware and record from there. (Check out question #33).
@@ -348,19 +330,19 @@ A48: I'd like to say we hid it because we don't like you, but you seem to be
348 Recording. If you're brave and want to help out, get one, try out and 330 Recording. If you're brave and want to help out, get one, try out and
349 report your findings! 331 report your findings!
350 332
351Q49: When recording is finally implimented in Rockbox, will it be possible to 333Q48: When recording is finally implimented in Rockbox, will it be possible to
352 use custom codecs (like LAME) or is there a built in codec in the Archos? 334 use custom codecs (like LAME) or is there a built in codec in the Archos?
353A49: The MP3 encoder is in the MAS3587F chip, and nothing we can change. 335A48: The MP3 encoder is in the MAS3587F chip, and nothing we can change.
354 336
355Q50: What are the max/min bitrates for recording on the Recorder's encoder? 337Q49: What are the max/min bitrates for recording on the Recorder's encoder?
356A50: The builtin encoder is variable bit rate only with a max of 192kbit/s, 338A49: The builtin encoder is variable bit rate only with a max of 192kbit/s,
357 and a min of 32kbit/s. 339 and a min of 32kbit/s.
358 340
359Q51: Would it be possible to record from line in on the player? 341Q50: Would it be possible to record from line in on the player?
360A51: No. 342A50: No.
361 343
362Q52: I have a question about the id3v1 and id3v2 tags... 344Q51: I have a question about the id3v1 and id3v2 tags...
363A52: Stop! Here is all the information about that (if you still have 345A51: Stop! Here is all the information about that (if you still have
364 questions when done, ask then.) 346 questions when done, ask then.)
365 347
366 - Rockbox supports both id3v1 and id3v2 348 - Rockbox supports both id3v1 and id3v2
@@ -376,8 +358,8 @@ A52: Stop! Here is all the information about that (if you still have
376 - The 300-byte limit is subject to be removed in a future version 358 - The 300-byte limit is subject to be removed in a future version
377 (Actually, it is already removed in post-1.4 versions) 359 (Actually, it is already removed in post-1.4 versions)
378 360
379Q53: Where exactly did the name 'Rockbox' come from? 361Q52: Where exactly did the name 'Rockbox' come from?
380A53: Well you can follow the full line of emails at 362A52: Well you can follow the full line of emails at
381 http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/archive/rockbox-archive-2002-01/0062.shtml 363 http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/archive/rockbox-archive-2002-01/0062.shtml
382 However, the brief rundown is that it was recommended first by 364 However, the brief rundown is that it was recommended first by
383 Tome Cvitan, and put to a vote (which it lost). 365 Tome Cvitan, and put to a vote (which it lost).
@@ -388,8 +370,8 @@ A53: Well you can follow the full line of emails at
388 370
389 There you have it. Recommended by users, decision by dictator. 371 There you have it. Recommended by users, decision by dictator.
390 372
391Q54: Why is there a limit of 400 files in a directory? 373Q53: Why is there a limit of 400 files in a directory?
392A54: We have answered this question numerous times. It is mentioned in the 374A53: We have answered this question numerous times. It is mentioned in the
393 release notes, and in the mailing list archives 375 release notes, and in the mailing list archives
394 (http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/archive/rockbox-archive-2002-08/0448.shtml). 376 (http://rockbox.haxx.se/mail/archive/rockbox-archive-2002-08/0448.shtml).
395 But, hey, we wouldn't want people to have to work to get an answer. 377 But, hey, we wouldn't want people to have to work to get an answer.
@@ -401,9 +383,9 @@ A54: We have answered this question numerous times. It is mentioned in the
401 file limits in order to provide a greater amount of memory for buffering 383 file limits in order to provide a greater amount of memory for buffering
402 of files being played. 384 of files being played.
403 385
404Q55: Okay, I understand your 400 file limit. But why hardcode? Why not 386Q54: Okay, I understand your 400 file limit. But why hardcode? Why not
405 have this be dynamically allocated? 387 have this be dynamically allocated?
406A55: Because it's useless. Dynamic memory is only ever useful if you have 388A54: Because it's useless. Dynamic memory is only ever useful if you have
407 memory consumers (tasks) that run at different points in time, and thus 389 memory consumers (tasks) that run at different points in time, and thus
408 can reuse the same memory for different purposes. 390 can reuse the same memory for different purposes.
409 391
@@ -421,22 +403,22 @@ A55: Because it's useless. Dynamic memory is only ever useful if you have
421 else is able to use it. This is standard practice in memory-limited 403 else is able to use it. This is standard practice in memory-limited
422 systems. 404 systems.
423 405
424Q56: Why is there a 10,000 song limit on playlists? 406Q55: Why is there a 10,000 song limit on playlists?
425A56: This is another hardcoded limit. We feel that as bigger disks arrive 407A55: This is another hardcoded limit. We feel that as bigger disks arrive
426 that this limit will increase. Because of the way that playlists are 408 that this limit will increase. Because of the way that playlists are
427 stored, it tends to be a bit more maleable then the directory file limit. 409 stored, it tends to be a bit more maleable then the directory file limit.
428 For further detail, look at questions 47 and 48 and replace any instances 410 For further detail, look at questions 47 and 48 and replace any instances
429 of '200' with '10,000'. 411 of '200' with '10,000'.
430 412
431Q57: You don't understand! I _really_ need to have more then 400 files 413Q56: You don't understand! I _really_ need to have more then 400 files
432 in a directory! 414 in a directory!
433A57: The use of really big directories was a workaround for the poor playlist 415A56: The use of really big directories was a workaround for the poor playlist
434 capabilities of the original Archos firmware. With Rockbox, you no longer 416 capabilities of the original Archos firmware. With Rockbox, you no longer
435 need this workaround. Organize your files in directories, then build 417 need this workaround. Organize your files in directories, then build
436 playlists for all collections you want to shuffle-play. 418 playlists for all collections you want to shuffle-play.
437 419
438Q58: How can I make playlists on my PC? 420Q57: How can I make playlists on my PC?
439A58: There are many programs that can create .m3u playlists. WinAmp is one. 421A57: There are many programs that can create .m3u playlists. WinAmp is one.
440 Another simple method, that requires no extra software, is to use dir: 422 Another simple method, that requires no extra software, is to use dir:
441 423
442 dir /b /s X:\ > X:\allfiles.m3u 424 dir /b /s X:\ > X:\allfiles.m3u
@@ -452,8 +434,8 @@ A58: There are many programs that can create .m3u playlists. WinAmp is one.
452 Remember that playlists are simple text files. You can edit them with any 434 Remember that playlists are simple text files. You can edit them with any
453 normal text editor. 435 normal text editor.
454 436
455Q59: How does the shuffle work? 437Q58: How does the shuffle work?
456A59: It sees the playlist as a deck of cards, shuffling the entries using a 438A58: It sees the playlist as a deck of cards, shuffling the entries using a
457 pseudo-random generator called the Mersenne Twister. After shuffling, 439 pseudo-random generator called the Mersenne Twister. After shuffling,
458 the list is never changed again until you reshuffle the list, by 440 the list is never changed again until you reshuffle the list, by
459 stopping the playback and restarting. If the repeat mode is enabled, 441 stopping the playback and restarting. If the repeat mode is enabled,
@@ -463,8 +445,8 @@ A59: It sees the playlist as a deck of cards, shuffling the entries using a
463 resume feature can shuffle the playlist in exactly the same way when 445 resume feature can shuffle the playlist in exactly the same way when
464 resuming. 446 resuming.
465 447
466Q60: How can I find out about all the neat features that Rockbox has? 448Q59: How can I find out about all the neat features that Rockbox has?
467A60: This information is in our manual (It sometimes gets a bit out of 449A59: This information is in our manual (It sometimes gets a bit out of
468 date, so please bear with us.) The information you are most likely 450 date, so please bear with us.) The information you are most likely
469 looking for is a bit down the tree, so the here is the url: 451 looking for is a bit down the tree, so the here is the url:
470 http://rockbox.haxx.se/manual/rec-general.html 452 http://rockbox.haxx.se/manual/rec-general.html
@@ -472,12 +454,12 @@ A60: This information is in our manual (It sometimes gets a bit out of
472 Also, check out the features-list at: 454 Also, check out the features-list at:
473 http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/features.html 455 http://rockbox.haxx.se/docs/features.html
474 456
475Q61: How can I see what bugs are currently open/being worked on? 457Q60: How can I see what bugs are currently open/being worked on?
476A61: Check out http://rockbox.haxx.se/bugs.shtml for a listing of bugs 458A60: Check out http://rockbox.haxx.se/bugs.shtml for a listing of bugs
477 that have been reported. 459 that have been reported.
478 460
479Q62: How can I report about bugs in Rockbox? 461Q61: How can I report about bugs in Rockbox?
480A62: If we were better programmers we would take that as an insult. But we 462A61: If we were better programmers we would take that as an insult. But we
481 aren't, so we won't. The first step in reporting a bug is to review 463 aren't, so we won't. The first step in reporting a bug is to review
482 the rules we ask you to follow in your submission (listed at: 464 the rules we ask you to follow in your submission (listed at:
483 http://rockbox.haxx.se/bugs.shtml#rules). 465 http://rockbox.haxx.se/bugs.shtml#rules).
@@ -487,8 +469,8 @@ A62: If we were better programmers we would take that as an insult. But we
487 submitted through SourceForge's bug tracker. (A link to the bug tracker 469 submitted through SourceForge's bug tracker. (A link to the bug tracker
488 can be found under our bug submission rules.) 470 can be found under our bug submission rules.)
489 471
490Q63: Could you tell me how to apply a patch? 472Q62: Could you tell me how to apply a patch?
491A63: There are a ton of ways to apply a patch. One way is to use the (GNU) 473A62: There are a ton of ways to apply a patch. One way is to use the (GNU)
492 'patch' program. It used like this: 474 'patch' program. It used like this:
493 475
494 $ cd rockbox-root 476 $ cd rockbox-root
@@ -505,8 +487,8 @@ A63: There are a ton of ways to apply a patch. One way is to use the (GNU)
505 If patch can't apply some changes that are in the diff, you'll get those 487 If patch can't apply some changes that are in the diff, you'll get those
506 particular changes in a file named "[source-file].rej". 488 particular changes in a file named "[source-file].rej".
507 489
508Q64: Whats with all the different versions of Rockbox? 490Q63: Whats with all the different versions of Rockbox?
509A64: There are really only two versions of Rockbox. One for Players and one 491A63: There are really only two versions of Rockbox. One for Players and one
510 for Recorders. However, we do have 3 other 'versions' of Rockbox 492 for Recorders. However, we do have 3 other 'versions' of Rockbox
511 available for download. These would be Releases, Daily Builds, and 493 available for download. These would be Releases, Daily Builds, and
512 Bleeding Edge. 494 Bleeding Edge.
@@ -531,32 +513,32 @@ A64: There are really only two versions of Rockbox. One for Players and one
531 but would love to hear any reports you may have about Release or Daily 513 but would love to hear any reports you may have about Release or Daily
532 build versions. (see question #62). 514 build versions. (see question #62).
533 515
534Q65: I am in Windows and can't create a .rockbox directory to store my 516Q64: I am in Windows and can't create a .rockbox directory to store my
535 files. When are you going to fix this? 517 files. When are you going to fix this?
536A65: We won't. The limitations of your operating system is not reason 518A64: We won't. The limitations of your operating system is not reason
537 enough for us to change how we handle things. And you _can_ create 519 enough for us to change how we handle things. And you _can_ create
538 this directory. Open a command line and type: 520 this directory. Open a command line and type:
539 mkdir j:\.rockbox 521 mkdir j:\.rockbox
540 You will need to correct the location for the drive letter that Windows 522 You will need to correct the location for the drive letter that Windows
541 assigns to your drive. 523 assigns to your drive.
542 524
543Q66: I own a Mac. I can't seem to create the .rockbox file. Can you 525Q65: I own a Mac. I can't seem to create the .rockbox file. Can you
544 fix this? 526 fix this?
545A66: Truth is, we don't need to fix anything. If you are using OSX then you 527A65: Truth is, we don't need to fix anything. If you are using OSX then you
546 can just open a console, change directories to the device and just: 528 can just open a console, change directories to the device and just:
547 mkdir .rockbox 529 mkdir .rockbox
548 530
549 If you are in another version then you should be able to do command-N in 531 If you are in another version then you should be able to do command-N in
550 the Finder, then name the folder. 532 the Finder, then name the folder.
551 533
552Q67: Will Rockbox work on an of Archos' other units? (FM player, Multimedia) 534Q66: Will Rockbox work on an of Archos' other units? (FM player, Multimedia)
553A67: Unfortunately, RockBox will not likely support any units other than 535A66: Unfortunately, RockBox will not likely support any units other than
554 those that we do currently support. 536 those that we do currently support.
555 537
556Q68: I copied the rockbox MOD/AJZ file to the root, removed the jukebox 538Q67: I copied the rockbox MOD/AJZ file to the root, removed the jukebox
557 safely and rebooted. But Rockbox still didn't load. What is wrong? 539 safely and rebooted. But Rockbox still didn't load. What is wrong?
558 I am running Windows. 540 I am running Windows.
559A68: The old MOD/AJZ was not entirely deleted from the disk. It is still 541A67: The old MOD/AJZ was not entirely deleted from the disk. It is still
560 there, and the boot loader finds that one instead of the new file. Here's 542 there, and the boot loader finds that one instead of the new file. Here's
561 what you can do: 543 what you can do:
562 544
@@ -585,8 +567,8 @@ A68: The old MOD/AJZ was not entirely deleted from the disk. It is still
585 567
586 (Thanks to Olivier Rafidison for this info) 568 (Thanks to Olivier Rafidison for this info)
587 569
588Q69: What kind of mic can I connect to my AJBR? 570Q68: What kind of mic can I connect to my AJBR?
589A69: There are several types of microphones. 571A68: There are several types of microphones.
590 572
591 Dynamic: The one that's available from archos is a dynamic one. 573 Dynamic: The one that's available from archos is a dynamic one.
592 Their output level is high enough so that they don't need an 574 Their output level is high enough so that they don't need an
@@ -644,20 +626,20 @@ A69: There are several types of microphones.
644 http://www.hut.fi/Misc/Electronics/circuits/microphone_powering.html. 626 http://www.hut.fi/Misc/Electronics/circuits/microphone_powering.html.
645 (As described, you also need amplification.) 627 (As described, you also need amplification.)
646 628
647Q70: I can't start rockbox when the charger is connected. What am I doing 629Q69: I can't start rockbox when the charger is connected. What am I doing
648 wrong? 630 wrong?
649A70: If your device is off and you connect the charger, the Archos charger code 631A69: If your device is off and you connect the charger, the Archos charger code
650 is started immediately. You can then start Rockbox with holding down the 632 is started immediately. You can then start Rockbox with holding down the
651 ON key for several seconds. Hold the key down a really long time, until 633 ON key for several seconds. Hold the key down a really long time, until
652 you see the Rockbox logo! 634 you see the Rockbox logo!
653 635
654Q71: Why can't you implement a crossfader? That would be so cool! 636Q70: Why can't you implement a crossfader? That would be so cool!
655A71: To crossfade you need to decode two MP3 streams simultaneously. The MP3 637A70: To crossfade you need to decode two MP3 streams simultaneously. The MP3
656 decoding is done in hardware and we only have one decoder chip, so it 638 decoding is done in hardware and we only have one decoder chip, so it
657 can't be done. Sorry. 639 can't be done. Sorry.
658 640
659Q72: My screen is all black/white when I run Rockbox on my Recorder! 641Q71: My screen is all black/white when I run Rockbox on my Recorder!
660A72: We have no way of knowing the correct contrast setting from start and the 642A71: We have no way of knowing the correct contrast setting from start and the
661 displays differ a lot. Change your contrast setting by doing this: 643 displays differ a lot. Change your contrast setting by doing this:
662 644
663 F1, down, right, down, down, right, down, down, down, right, down (until 645 F1, down, right, down, down, right, down, down, down, right, down (until