This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:10:35
The video focuses on upgrading an outdated Google Chromebook by converting its firmware and installing a new operating system, specifically Linux. Initially, the presenter discusses the limitations of Chromebooks, such as the cessation of Google support after five years, making the device potentially unsafe to use. To mitigate this, the video offers detailed steps to convert a Lenovo N42-20 Chromebook firmware to UEFI and install a Linux OS, such as Elementary OS.
Key steps include entering recovery and developer modes, using a command line interface to download and run a script from MrChromebox.tech, and determining the need to remove a write-protect screw to modify the firmware. The video details the disassembly process for those needing to remove the screw and provides guidance on setting boot options and hardware IDs.
Once modification is prepared, the video proceeds with downloading the necessary files, overcoming minor errors, and installing the new UEFI firmware. The presenter emphasizes caution as there are risks like potentially bricking the hardware. Finally, viewers learn how to use a bootable Linux flash drive to install the new OS, with examples such as Peppermint Linux, Gallium OS, and Elementary OS, along with encouragement to check the video description for additional resources.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, the presenter shares their enthusiasm for Google Chromebooks, appreciating their power efficiency, affordability, and secure operating system. However, they explain that after five years, Google ceases support for the hardware, making it unsafe to use the outdated operating system. To address this, the video outlines the process of converting the Chromebook’s firmware to a generic UEFI and installing a new Linux OS. The demonstration involves converting a Lenovo N42-20 Chromebook to Elementary OS Linux, starting by entering recovery mode using specific key combinations (Escape, Refresh, and Power). Then, they switch to developer mode using Control+D, reboot the device, clear local data, and bypass OS verification warnings. The importance of noting the hardware ID displayed on-screen is also emphasized.
00:03:00
In this segment of the video, the presenter explains how to launch a command line interface on a Chromebook by pressing Control + Alt + T and typing “shell.” They then provide instructions for entering a series of commands to download and run a script from mrchromebox.tech, which will display a menu and perform an inventory of the Chromebook’s firmware. This script helps determine if the user needs to remove the write-protect screw to modify the firmware. If the goal is to dual boot between Chrome OS and Linux, no action is needed. However, to replace the firmware with a UEFI replacement, removing the write-protect screw might be necessary. The script identifies whether the firmware is write-protected, saving the user from unnecessary disassembly if the write-protect screw is already absent. Detailed instructions can be found in the video notes.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the creator guides the viewer through the process of disassembling a Chromebook and removing a write-protect screw. This step is essential for either installing UEFI full ROM or updating legacy firmware, depending on the viewer’s preference. The video also covers setting boot options and hardware IDs if necessary. After disassembling the Chromebook, the viewer is shown how to download the required files from MrChromebox.tech, which involves entering a specific command. After a minor error due to an incorrect URL, the correct files are downloaded. The creator decides to perform a full ROM replacement, which involves multiple warnings about potential risks, such as bricking the hardware. Once confirmed, the new UEFI firmware is installed, and the Chromebook is rebooted. The video then shows the process of accessing the shell prompt, from where the viewer can proceed to boot with the new UEFI firmware.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the speaker guides viewers on how to use a bootable Linux flash drive to install an operating system. They instruct to insert the flash drive, choose the boot menu option, select the USB flash drive, and start the installation process. They mention Peppermint Linux, Gallium OS for Chromebooks, and Elementary OS as examples. The speaker also encourages viewers to leave comments and feedback if any steps are unclear and reminds them to check the video description for additional information and a free download link for video notes.