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Xbox
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Why mod the
Xbox? Well, the Xbox is more than just a gaming machine. It's
the most powerful computer you can purchase for $199. Under
the hood, the Xbox is equipped with a 733-MHz Intel Pentium
III processor, an Nvidia graphics subsystem, hard drive,
Ethernet, and four USB ports. Modding the Xbox turns it from a
gaming console into a fully functional PC (that can still run
games).
On today's show, we'll start our five-part
series on Xbox mods. We kick off our mods with the first
step toward unleashing all the Xbox power: adding a mod chip.
Important note
Xbox mods are not supported by Microsoft and may be illegal
under the DMCA. If you mod your Xbox, you are willingly
voiding the warranty and potentially breaking the law. If done
improperly, modding could damage your Xbox.
Choose a mod chip
There are close to a dozen varieties of mod chips, all with
different options and features. Rather than bore you with the
details on each chip, let's cut to the chase.
The two best mod chips on the market are the Xecuter2 Lite
and Xecuter2 Pro. The only difference between the chips is
that the Pro has a parallel interface so you can flash the
BIOS directly with your PC. Personally, I prefer the Lite
chip, simply because it comes pre-flashed. The Pro lacks a
BIOS and needs to be manually flashed before using.
Be careful when purchasing your mod chips online. There are
lots of shady fly-by-night websites that are just out there to
take your money.
Solder the chips
I've found that Xbox-Scene is the best
resource for Xbox tutorials on the Web. If you have any
questions along your modding journey, visit the site.
The first thing you need to do is open the Xbox. Here's a
complete
tutorial.
The Xecuter2 Lite and Xecuter2 Pro require the same solder
points. Great soldering diagrams can be found here.
When soldering, make sure to use a low-watt
solder gun to prevent burning your motherboard (15 watts
is fine). Don't forget the thin solder.
After the soldering is complete, reseat the motherboard and
components. Restart your Xbox, and you should now be presented
with "Xecuter2" directly underneath the Xbox logo. This is the
sign of a properly installed Xbox mod chip.
If you are having problems, it's probably due to an
incorrectly soldered d0 wire. Tips on soldering the d0 can be
found here.
Our next Xbox mod: replacing the Microsoft dashboard with
EvolutionX.
Originally aired March 31, 2003
Modified April
2, 2003 | 
