XBox for XBMC

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xpd

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#29368 5-Jan-2009 09:02

Dosent really fit into a particular catergory (console section hint inserted here ;) )

I picked up a refurbished XBox (not 360) for $66 from EBGames with the intention of setting it up for media viewing via XBMC so I can reclaim my PC back from the wife using it to watch stuff.

I understand this requires the unit to be modified - what options are there for modifying Xboxs these days ?

I know theres the chips (Duo X2 appears to be popular in NZ) that require soldering into the unit, and the software mods (via copy of Splinter cell etc) but also been told theres another way where you solder 2 points together on the motherboard - Ive been unable to find any information on this method however a workmate says he has done this method and it works fine but Im just a tad wary of a method that noone else seems to know about.

What methods (or even chips) have people here used ?
Any issues youve had since modifying your XBox ?

TIA :)

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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#187451 5-Jan-2009 10:09

I haven't heard of the 2 point soldering method.

The easiest and cheapest way to mod is to use the software hack as there is no soldering or hardware changes. Biggest challenge with the software hack is getting the exploit in to the Xbox. You can either use a game save or mod a USB drive.

I haven't had any problems with modded Xbox, but if you do the software mod make sure you save eeprom files somewhere other than the xbox. These files are necessary in case of hard drive upgrade or failure.

OT: My biggest gripe with the Xbox is not being able to boot from the remote. There is a hardware hack to link remote with the power supply but I haven't got around to doing it.

gehenna

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#187454 5-Jan-2009 10:18

So long as you're okay with a bit of soldering the hardware mods are easy to install. Check for the Executer chips on Trade me or something, I've had the best luck with those ones. Once you're done with that do a google for the XBMC install from someone like Slayer - he does the best all-in-one boot cd with tools + media center + dashboards, etc.

xpd

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#187456 5-Jan-2009 10:25

Cheers for the info.

Turns out a friend has a spare Duo chip that he'll install for me

So looks like I'll be up and running soonish. And I finally claim my PC back, hooray!!

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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gehenna

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#187484 5-Jan-2009 12:41

I'd be keen to find out what someone will pay for a fully modded and kitted out orignal Xbox + 4 controllers + HD AV kit....keen to get rid of mine and make some space in my cupboard. Any ideas?

redjet

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#187496 5-Jan-2009 13:06

gehenna: I'd be keen to find out what someone will pay for a fully modded and kitted out orignal Xbox + 4 controllers + HD AV kit....keen to get rid of mine and make some space in my cupboard. Any ideas?

I think you'd get in the $150 to $200 range depending on the size of the hard disk.
Also to answer xpd's original question. I've had a Xecuter3 chip in my Xbox for 4 years and it's still going strong.

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xpd

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#187507 5-Jan-2009 14:00

Yeah, around $150ish mark is about right - someone I know picked up Xbox that was modded with a 300gb HDD for $150.

I was eyeing up a pre-modded one myself until I saw EB with them for $66 - modchip is only $20 and Ive got spare HDD's so figured Id get it sorted myself and save some cash :)

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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#187512 5-Jan-2009 14:10

gehenna: I'd be keen to find out what someone will pay for a fully modded and kitted out orignal Xbox + 4 controllers + HD AV kit....keen to get rid of mine and make some space in my cupboard. Any ideas?

Does that include a remote and iR sensor?

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redjet

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#187547 5-Jan-2009 15:35

I was eyeing up a pre-modded one myself until I saw EB with them for $66 - modchip is only $20 and Ive got spare HDD's so figured Id get it sorted myself and save some cash :)

Yep, $66 is a sweet deal alright!

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