Any Help/Advice for creating custom ROMs?

[uberjam545]

Since I've had alot of free time lately I think I'd like to get into creating some custom ROMs but first I want to ask a couple of basic questions, I know that theres more people than than ksmith and nick7 that know about creating ROMs and any help/advice you think you have for me is appreciated.

1. Is there a good a website or thread here to help me get started (I tried the Android Central search but all that comes up is all the new ROMs that other people create which doesn't really help me) if so post the url to it.

2. I'd probably just start out making simple changes to ROMs that are already out there (changing the default theme, boot animation, etc..) so would it be easier for me to start on a rooted stock ROM or a custom ROM already out there (like ReBorn, ShellROM or even Thunderom, I'd be sure to get the devs permission though first)

3. Is there anything dangerous that I should not do/play with that would end up bricking my phone or anything it else bad?

Thanks for your time, and any help that you have to offer.




Btw I have a few different computers at my disposal running windows, mandriva, debian, and every kind of buntu that there is.

 

[basketthis]

Linux computer of mine available for building at anyone of the deb's disposal. Including you. I am also attempting to learn building and rom'ing so I'd be happy to get involved if you want the help.

I know there was a couple links floating around other threads but can't remember which thread they were in.

 

[uberjam545]

I'm not planning on publishing the next reborn rom or anything I mostly just want to learn about it because I think it'll help me understand how our phones work better but anything I learn will most likely come from a post from this thread and you'll see it to thanks anyway though.

 

[basketthis]

I'm ready to participate. Lol! Anyway good luck with your learning. And yes, it definitely helps to build/sign stuff to help understands little better. I've put together a flashable zip myself and learned alot!

 

[mike9670]

Be sure to follow the rules:

http://forums.androidcentral.com/faq.php?faq=generalacrules#faq_developerrules

 

[scrosler]

If you guys have questions I can try to help. I made my first Optimus ROM not to long ago: http://forums.androidcentral.com/lg...20-11-overclocked-ad-blocked-wifi-tether.html. Am now starting on Evo 3D stuff now... I have a few more tweaks I want to make to my Optimus ROM before I call it done for good... But anyways...

To answer Ops questions...

1. Look here to begin: [KITCHEN][JULY 10 '11] HTC Android Kitchen, v0.171 [Linux / Mac / Windows] - xda-developers (This is the kitchen that I used to make ROMS)

2. Start with a clean rooted stock ROM. That way you learn what it looks like to start with and you know what you will want to change.

3. I havent bricked my phone but I am sure its doable. I have created a few soft bricks (ROMS that dont boot) while learning. BUt those are easily fixed by booting into recovery and restoring back up or flashing known good ROM.


Good luck... Its a hella fun journey once you get going!