View source for Test/Flashing your device/Flashing your device

====Notes About Terminology====
* Firefox OS is frequently referred to by its code name (and original name) ''B2G''.  
* The files we use to flash the device are referred to as images, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Read-only_memory ROMs] or builds.
* The proper abbreviation for Firefox OS is ''FxOS''.
* The process of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flashing_%28technology%29 ''flashing''] refers to writing the ROMs to the device to update the operating system to a different version.
* ''Flatfish'' is the code name we use to refer to the 10" tablets being tested.
==Flashing Your Device==
<div class="note error">'''Mac users:''' It is currently not possible to flash Firefox OS builds to Flatfish from a Mac. We are working to remedy this. In the meantime you may use a Linux or Windows VM.</div>
Before beginning, it is best if your device is not almost dead (if the battery's red, it's almost dead).
* Download [https://www.dropbox.com/sh/b2py1btcwstqldl/AABblbq_csa1IHQwdvLdfptTa a recent build] you would like to flash.
** Tip: Using the ''Download'' (as zip) option will save time and make for a much smaller download. [[File:dropbox_download_button.png]]
** Check the [https://etherpad.mozilla.org/CmJbD8V0QX build status page] to see if there are notes about major issues with the listed builds.
** If none of the listed builds are viable ("good"), download the build in the ''stable'' folder.
* Extract [https://www.dropbox.com/s/p9efzgy2e7plvi7/ADB-Fastboot-and-Scripts.zip this zip file] into the same folder as your build files.
* ''Windows users'': If you have not installed Android USB drivers previously, you likely need to follow [these directions] to do so.  If you do not and receive the error <code>device not found</code> you'll need to install them.
* ''Linux users'': If you have not, you need to [https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/Firefox_OS/Firefox_OS_build_prerequisites#For_Linux.3A_configure_the_udev_rule_for_your_phone add udev rules] for the device (use idVendor '''18d1''' and '''0bb4''' - that's ''two'' separate rules).
* Turn on your device and plug it in to your computer via the USB cord.
* Run the ''flash'' file.
** On Windows the file will be called '''flash''' or '''flash.bat''' (if you have file extensions unhidden). The icon may have gears in it.
** On Linux the file will be called '''flash-flatfish.sh'''
* You should then be asked if you want to flash user data.  Saying yes will clear any user data such as apps you have installed and emails.  Data stored on an SD Card will survive. <br>If you are moving between a major version of FxOS (e.g. 1.4 -> 2.0 or 2.0 -> 1.4) we recommend that you choose to flash the user data (thereby deleting it).
* After making your userdata selection the tablet will reboot into "fastboot" mode and display the Firefox OS logo.  In the command window, if you see <code>< waiting for device ></code> for longer than 30 seconds, try unplugging the USB cord from your computer and plugging it back in.
* The flash will take a couple of minutes and the screen may display random colors. Do not unplug, disturb or mock the device during this time.
* Once finished, press any key to reboot.