AShot: Android Screenshot Tool - Capture & Share Easily

First Impressions of Android and Screenshot Solutions

Having recently acquired my initial Android device, an HTC EVO 4G running Android 2.3.3, I’ve been largely impressed with its functionality. However, two aspects initially presented minor inconveniences: battery performance and the screenshot capture process.

While the battery issue was effectively addressed using JuiceDefender, discovered through a list of top Android applications, I initially dismissed learning the screenshot procedure as overly complex.

Discovering the Built-in Method

This perspective shifted upon encountering an article penned by Ryan in late 2009. It detailed utilizing the Android SDK Manager and the Dalvik Debug Monitor for capturing screenshots on Android devices.

Surprisingly, the process proved to be quite straightforward once the initial configuration was completed.

The Dalvik Debug Monitor, accessible through the SDK manager, offers a viable method for obtaining screenshots. However, for users requiring frequent captures, a more streamlined solution exists.

Introducing AShot: A Simplified Alternative

AShot is an open-source utility designed for both screenshot capture and screencasting. It facilitates easy viewing of your Android device’s screen directly on your computer.

Further details regarding the advantages of AShot as an alternative to the native Dalvik Debug Monitor are provided below.

Simplified Process: AShot offers a more intuitive interface for frequent screenshot needs.
Screencasting Capability: Beyond screenshots, AShot supports real-time screen recording.
Open-Source Nature: Being open-source, AShot benefits from community development and transparency.

Ultimately, both the Dalvik Debug Monitor and AShot provide effective means of capturing Android screenshots, catering to different user preferences and usage frequencies.

Initial Setup

To begin, you will require the Android SDK Manager, a USB synchronization cable, the AShot application, and, naturally, your Android phone. Further guidance regarding the Android SDK Manager installation can be found in Ryan’s detailed article. Here’s a concise summary of key steps:

- Downloading the complete executable file isn’t strictly necessary.

The SDK Manager’s zip archive is sufficient. Simply extract its contents and remember the directory where you’ve placed the android-sdk-windows folder.
Initiate the SDK Manager with administrative privileges by right-clicking and selecting Run as Administrator.

Install and update the initial entry, Android SDK Platform-tools. For the remaining options, selecting Reject will expedite the download process, focusing on the essential components.

From the Available Packages tab, also select the Google USB driver located within Third-party Add-ons.
Establish a connection between your phone and your computer using the USB sync cable. If this is the first time connecting your device, driver installation may be prompted; proceed with the installation. Subsequently, navigate to Menu > Settings > Applications > Development on your phone and enable USB debugging.
Execute the ddms.bat file found within the tools folder.
Verify that a window appears, displaying your Android phone in the left-hand panel. This confirmation ensures AShot will function correctly.
Download and install AShot. Upon initial launch (accessible through the Start menu as Android Screen Capture), the application will request the location of your android-sdk-windows directory, which you previously noted. Browse to this location and click OK to view your Android phone’s screen on your computer.

The Capabilities of AShot

A common question arises: how does AShot compare to utilizing the Dalvik Debug Monitor? AShot streamlines the screen capture process, demanding significantly less user interaction. Unlike methods requiring constant refreshing with each screen alteration on your Android device, AShot provides a near real-time display of your device’s screen on your computer.

Real-Time Screen Display

The application exhibits only a slight delay in mirroring your device. Furthermore, AShot incorporates keyboard shortcuts for convenient actions such as toggling fullscreen mode and rotating the display both clockwise and counterclockwise.

Automated Screenshot Logging

Users have the ability to designate a specific folder for captured images. Then, by activating the Start Capture function, all activity on your Android handset can be automatically recorded as a series of screenshots.

Screencasting Options

For screencast recording, Camstudio, designed for Windows, or the web-based Screenr are recommended. Both platforms support high-definition screencasting capabilities.

Support and Assistance

Should you encounter any difficulties during the setup or operation of AShot, comprehensive instructions are available on the developer’s official website. Alternatively, you can seek assistance by posting your questions in the comments section below.

Image Credit: Mike Saechang