N900: No space on rootfs

The rootfs of the N900 is stored on a 256mb partition of NAND memory. This memory is faster than the 32gb of storage. However sometimes this space limit can cause issues when installing apps.

The main problem here is that some poorly packaged apps install things in the rootfs instead of the 2gb application parition on the main memory. Also sometimes downloaded packages haven’t been removed by the application manager.

If you receive a no space message then try these steps.

Firstly clear downloaded packages by rebooting the device. You can also do this with the command “apt-get clean” whilst root in an X-Term, if you don’t understand this then reboot the device.

If this doesn’t clear sufficent space then you have probably indulged in Extras-Devel a little too much and now you’ll need to start removing apps that you have installed. Unfortunately without a lot of hassle there isn’t an easy way to determine which apps are taking up space in rootfs and you’ll need a bit of trail and error.

Hopefully this should clear up sufficient space for you to install new app or updates.

Update: If you’re still short of space then disable repositories you don’t need and refresh your updates. This will remove the database files for these repositories and free up more space. If you only need a few meg then it may well be worth trying this before removing apps. Finally reboot to clear up any temporary files no longer required. If this still doesn’t do it and you’re trying to install a Maemo firmware update then you’re probably going to have to use the Nokia Software Updater, remember to run a back up first.

Just a little reminder concerning Extras-Devel, the software found here is really in alpha or beta stages and may well cause much more serious problems than filling up your rootfs. Please remember this before you hit that install button.