[afv011]

Originally Posted by Hrafn

Hi. I'm a current Pocketbook 360 owner, who is looking at upgrading. Whilst I like the software interface of the Pocketbook (principally FBReader and hierarchical/directory-based library), I'm aware that Pocketbook's hardware is lagging behind (even the new 612), and isn't even close to being competitively priced.

I'm therefore looking at the possibility of rooting a NST to offer a similar software experience on updated hardware. I'm outside the US, and will be making no use of the B&N bookstore, but will rather be using DRM-free epubs on a microSD.

I therefore have a few questions:

1. How does Nook's default reader compare to FBReader? Does it allow adding fonts and/or overriding (often idiosyncratic) CSS-settings for a consistent user-defined reading experience?
2. How compatible is (Android) FBReader with the NST?
3. Is there a suitable hierarchical/directory-based library/fire-manager available for Android? (I really don't want to have everything in a single directory, and then having to muck about trying to sort everything back out to authors and series again with Nook's 'shelves' -- dealkiller.)
4. Is it possible to have this alternative library/fire-manager come up by default (rather than the default Nook Home Screen or Library, and having to navigate to it from them)?

I've also got a few questions on the rooting process:

1. If I don't intend ever using B&N's bookstore, is there any need to register my Nook before rooting, as many (all?) guides state I have to?
2. Is it possible to root a NST without Wifi? (I don't current have it, or a need for it, and purchasing, and setting up, the hardware for it, simply to root an eReader, seems excessive).
3. Given that I'm only wanting to add a very limited number of Apps, is there any way of doing this as part of the initial root, as opposed to setting up the various App markets, and downloading the Apps off them?

Finally, are there any alternatives/issues I should be looking at, that I haven't brought up?

Thanks.

I have a few answers for you.

1.- You can't modify the fonts on the default reader, you have to stick to the choice of 6 they offer you (3 serif, 3 sans)
2.- You can use ES File Explorer to navigate folders. You can also use 3rd party readers, like Mantano, which allow you to sort by series, author and such.
3.- You can set your 3rd party reader as default. When you try to open a book, you'll get a pop-up to choose the app to open the file; if you click on the checkmark, the app will be the default and you won't be prompted again.
4.- You have to register if you want to use the stock software (rooted or not). There are reports of battery issues if you skip the registration. There is no reason to skip it, just provide a name and email address - no credit card is needed. You don't even need to use real names or email addresses if you don't want to.
5.- You don't need WiFi to root, the process is simple, just boot with the rooting SD card inserted.
6.- It is possible, but it is more convoluted. The rooting SD card roots the device, installs the market and some other stuff. If you only want to install a few apps, you would have to gain ADB access and then install the apps manually.

My 2 cents, I would say it is not worth to root the NST, as a reader it does a pretty good job as is, but feel free to experience.