Archos G9 Series - User Manual

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G9 Series

How to reinitialize my ARCHOS 80 G9 ?

This process is recommended for your device if : it is frozen, it

doesn’t turn on or you are experiencing a software issue. It will allow you

to perform a low level format on your device. Thus all the data will be

deleted, you won't be able to retrieve them. We strongly recommend to

back them up first. Keep in mind that your device’s battery must be

charged enough to perform this operation.

What you'll need

Your device has to be turned off (push the power button for 10 secs)

A USB cable

A PC running Windows® (XP or superior)

1. Download the required files

You will need the original firmware to reinitialize your device. From your

computer, please download and save on the desktop (or in a folder) :

The file firmware_archos_it4.aos that you can download here

2. Entering in recovery mode on your device

a. The tablet must be off (push the power button for 10 secs).

b. Plug the USB cable into the PC (do not plug into the tablet yet).

c. Press & hold Volume +.

d. Now plug the USB lead into the tablet.

e. A white boot menu should appear, you can release Volume +.

Use the volume buttons on your tablet to navigate and validate

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Summary

Reinitialize ARCHOS 80 G9

Download Required Firmware

Download the original firmware file (firmware_archos_it4.aos) needed for the reinitialization process.

Enter Recovery Mode on Device

Follow specific button presses and USB connections to access the device's recovery menu.

Format and Reinitialize Tablet

Use the recovery menu to format system and reformat the device by transferring the firmware file.

Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications (Implied)
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The ARCHOS 80 G9 is a tablet device that can be reinitialized to address various software issues, including freezing, failure to turn on, or general software malfunctions. This reinitialization process performs a low-level format, which will erase all data on the device, making it unrecoverable. Therefore, users are strongly advised to back up their data before proceeding. It is also crucial that the device's battery is sufficiently charged to complete the operation without interruption.

Function Description:

The primary function of the ARCHOS 80 G9, as indicated by the manual, is to provide a portable computing experience, likely for media consumption, web browsing, and app usage. The reinitialization guide focuses on restoring the device to a factory-like state, effectively resolving software-related problems that might hinder its normal operation. This process involves downloading a specific firmware file, entering a recovery mode, formatting the system, and then transferring the firmware to the device.

Important Technical Specifications (Implied):

Operating System: While not explicitly stated, the need for a firmware file (firmware_archos_it4.aos) suggests a custom Android-based or similar embedded operating system. The "G9 Series" branding further implies a specific generation of ARCHOS tablets.
Storage: The reinitialization process involves a "low level format" and the transfer of a firmware file (205 MB), indicating internal storage for the operating system and user data. The file explorer screenshots show a drive labeled "A80S_REC (D:)", which likely represents the device's internal storage accessible via USB.
Connectivity: A USB cable is required for the reinitialization process, connecting the tablet to a PC. This implies a USB port on the tablet for data transfer and possibly charging.
Input: The device features physical volume buttons ("Volume +") and a power button, which are used to navigate and validate options within the recovery menu. The touchscreen functionality is not directly used during the recovery mode steps described.
Display: A "white boot menu" is mentioned, indicating a display capable of showing text-based menus during the recovery process.

Usage Features:

Standard Tablet Usage: As a tablet, it would typically offer features like a touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi connectivity for internet access, multimedia playback, and access to applications.
Recovery Mode: A key usage feature highlighted is the ability to enter a dedicated recovery mode. This mode is essential for troubleshooting and system restoration, allowing users to perform advanced maintenance tasks that are not accessible during normal operation.
Firmware Update/Reinstallation: The process involves downloading and installing a specific firmware file, which is a common method for updating or reinstalling the device's core software.
PC Interaction: The reinitialization process heavily relies on interaction with a Windows PC (XP or superior). This means users need access to a computer to download files and transfer them to the tablet.

Maintenance Features:

System Reinitialization/Factory Reset: The core maintenance feature described is the ability to completely reinitialize the device, effectively performing a factory reset at a low level. This is crucial for resolving persistent software issues.
Data Backup Recommendation: The manual strongly emphasizes backing up data before reinitialization, highlighting a critical data management aspect of device maintenance.
Firmware Management: Users are required to download a specific firmware file, indicating that ARCHOS provides these files for device maintenance and support.
Diagnostic Mode (Implied): The "white boot menu" and recovery options suggest a diagnostic mode that allows users or technicians to interact with the device at a lower level than the standard operating system.
Power Management for Maintenance: The requirement for a sufficiently charged battery before performing the operation underscores the importance of power management during maintenance procedures to prevent further complications.
Troubleshooting Guide: The document itself serves as a troubleshooting guide, providing step-by-step instructions for a common and critical maintenance task. It also includes a warning about what to do if the recovery menu is not accessed successfully, guiding users to restart the process.
USB Connectivity for Maintenance: The reliance on a USB cable for connecting to a PC and transferring files is a fundamental maintenance feature, enabling direct access to the device's storage for firmware installation.
Volume Button Navigation: The use of volume buttons for navigation and validation in the recovery menu provides a robust input method for maintenance, especially if the touchscreen is unresponsive or not yet initialized.