How To: Simple(r) Screenshots for the Archos 5 Android
Posted by map002 on January 21st, 2010
When Archos released it’s first Donut (Android 1.6) firmware, those who installed it noticed a great new feature… Screenshots!
With the press of a button, users could capture their screens to PNG files, making it easy to describe new apps or illustrate blogs like this one.
But that firmware was quickly pulled for bugs in the browser and, most likely, for other reasons (like the developer code left in the release, including the screenshot functionality).
However, when the proper firmware release of Donut debuted yesterday, some users were sorry to see that screenshots were a no-show.
So, here comes Devo, the same hacker who brought us the first simplified Market hack for Donut, to the rescue!
It’s not an app but a simple script that will allow more adventurous users to grab screenshots off the device when tethered via a USB connection to a PC, Mac or Linux box. Here’s the original forum thread and a complete how-to guide, as well as the links to the files you’ll need.
Devo harnesses some built-in developer functionality in the A5A and combines it with the scripts, drivers and files you’ll need to get great PNG screenshots on the Archos SSD, HDD or even right to your PC.
Be advised that this requires getting an ADB connection working with your Archos, a special developer’s mode that some users have problems getting going especially on 64 bit Vista and Windows 7 PCs.
But if you’re wanting some of that screen capture mojo back and you’ve got a little knowledge and the patience, then Devo’s got your hookup!
-Michael P
Discuss this hack and get help getting it going in the forum: http://forum.archosfans.com/viewtopic.php?f=47&t=29826