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Posts Tagged ‘Xbox 360’

Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter Review

Posted on February 1st, 2010 | by admin

Xbox 360 Wireless G Network Adapter 4

The Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter is your robust and reliable companion for connecting to Xbox LIVE.  Perform effortless streaming of High-Definition Videos or download complete games or other Multi-media content from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.

 

Xbox 360 meets High-speed Wireless Network

 

With the Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter, you can now experience full quality multi-media content from Xbox LIVE Marketplace. Stream or download complete HD videos in full 1080p and 5.1 surround sound.  Enjoy the latest music albums before they hit the stores.  Experience multi-player gaming with your friends.  Explore on-line gaming with other Xbox 360 players from all-over the world.  The Wireless N technology brings lag-free network gaming for your Xbox 360 platform.

 

Convenient Wireless N Connection

 

Before this Wireless N Adapter became available, you can only connect your Xbox 360 to a Wireless G Network using the older Wi-Fi adapter.  You can also use the Ethernet port for a wire network if you do the cabling.  But, purchasing a special Ethernet-to-Wireless N bridge can also help if you’re really that desperate.  With an Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter, connecting your Xbox 360 to a Wireless N Network is now easier than ever. 

 

Neat Attachment

 Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter 3

This 802.11n Xbox 360 adapter snugly fits the back of your console and interfaces through a USB port.  The short USB cord is perfect for this simple arrangement.  If you need to re-position the Wi-Fi adapter elsewhere, you will need to use a separate USB 2.0 extension cable.  You should do this if connection is impaired by the console’s distance or location relative to your  wireless router.

 

Designed for the Wireless Jungle

 

This specially designed wireless N adapter is well suited for huge spaces or multiple rooms.  It was also built to minimize interference to and from other wireless devices that you already have.  This adapter can thrive even in saturated wireless environments with multiple wireless networks and devices. 

 

Compact Design

 

The Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter is the latest wireless adapter exclusively designed for your Xbox 360.  The compact design seamlessly fits the rear of the console for clutterless operation.  This latest design features maximum compatibility to existing A/B/G/N networks. 

 

The Wireless N / 802.11n Standard

 Xbox 360 Wireless G Network Adapter 1

The new Wireless N Specification ensures connection speeds of up to 7x faster compared to Wireless G standard.  This new Specification extends connection range of up to 2x wider compared to the older Wireless G.  Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) is natively supported for security against intruders.  Dual Band Support for 5GHz and 2.4GHz with Full-Duplex capability maintains signal integrity.  The 2 external antennas and off-board placement feature with a USB extension cable allow you to position the device for maximum signal reception.

 

Xbox 360 On-line: Quick and Easy

 

Getting your Xbox 360 on-line using this Wi-Fi adapter is very simple to do.  The software drivers are available in the software disc included.  You do not need the drivers if your console was previously connected to the internet after October 28, 2009 and has updated system files.  If otherwise, un-plug the Wi-Fi adapter and the network cable before inserting the disc.  Turn-off and restart the console.  Installation is automatic, just follow the on-screen instructions when directed.  After installation, attach the Wi-Fi adapter (with the antennas) to the back of the console.  Plug-in the USB connector of the adapter to the USB slot of the console.  Remove the disc and restart the unit.  You will later be prompted to scan for wireless networks and later given a list of found ones.  Choose the Wi-Fi network that you want and enter the required network encryption keys to start connecting to Xbox LIVE.

 

The Good:

 

Signal Range: works great even when distanced from the wireless router/access point

Signal Strength: strong wireless signal despite some barriers

Connection Speed: excellent at downloading high capacity content via wireless N specification

Physical Installation: attaches snugly at the back of the console, easy USB plug

Software Installation: easy to install drivers, may not be needed if console is updated before

Compatibility: exclusively designed for an Xbox 360 console

Form Factor: neat and compact size and design

Aesthetics: elegant black color and cute stubby antennas

Accessories: can be extended using a separate USB 2.0 extension cable

Price: expensively priced at $100

 

The Bad:

 

Signal Range: can be affected by physical barriers such as walls, ceilings, furniture, etc.

Signal Strength: can be affected by physical barriers such as walls, ceilings, furniture, etc.

Connection Speed: depends greatly on the Signal Strength

Physical Installation: stand for independent and distant operation is not included

Software Installation: (none)

Compatibility: only wireless adapters designed by Microsoft for Xbox 360 can be used

Form Factor: antennas have limited freedom of movement and can be broken when forced

Aesthetics: comes only in one color – black main body and grey antennas

Accessories: USB 2.0 extension cable is not included in the package

Price: costs ($99) half of an Xbox 360 Arcade Edition ($199)

 

The Verdict:

The wireless networking performance of the Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter is highly commendable and lives up to its claims.  It is well suited for a gaming platform and delivers high volume multi-media content on your Xbox 360.  The only major downside is the hefty price tag that comes with it.

After considering the benefits and the trade-offs, this wireless adapter is only recommended if:

  1. you have a compatible and certified Wireless N Router,
  2. you have a high-speed internet connection of more than 54Mb/s or 6.5MB/s (ideally 600Mb/s or 75MB/s),
  3. you really want wireless internet connection for your Xbox 360 and
  4. you really want seamless high-capacity content delivered right into your Xbox 360 machine. 

Otherwise, the existing Ethernet port at the back of your console can deliver the same multi-media content through a connection speed of 100Mb/s or 12,5MB/s.  Just use Ethernet cabling and upgrade your low internet bandwidth.

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Tags: games, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox 360 wireless N

Add External Hard Disk Drive to Xbox

Posted on January 19th, 2010 | by admin

02 Xbox 360 Console - All Sides

Xbox 360 Mod/Hack Rating:

Difficulty Level:         2 out of 5

Skill Level Needed:   2 out of 5

Personal Risk:            2 out of 5

Equipment Risk:         2 out of 5

Duration:                     1.5 out of 5

Cost:                            1.5 out of 5

Satisfaction:                3 out of 5

Bottom Line:        2.5 out of 5

Expensive Memories

Data storage in video game consoles have always been a premium commodity since game data saving became possible.  But this was only understandable and acceptable during the early days of disc-based consoles.  Now, advances in the mass storage industry made economies of scale possible on a priced resource in computing – storage capacity.  A closer look will show that video game console are now riding the hardware and software advancement of personal computers.  In fact, the latest generation of Xbox and other consoles are more of a Personal Computer than a Video Game Console!

There’s a PC in your Xbox 360!

If you try opening any of the three 7th Generation video game console, like the Xbox (warranty voided!), distinct PC-like components may be found: CPU, GPU, RAM, HDD, Audio Chip, MoBo & Chipsets, Optical Disc Drive, Network Adapter, USB Ports, Video Ports and more.  This means that with the right motivation, equipment, materials and skills, you can safely extend and expand the functionality and performance of the gaming platform.

Do-it-Yourself Xbox 360 External Hard Drive

Instead of buying a $149.99 120GB Xbox 360 Hard Drive from Microsoft, you could safely and easily add one on your own externally.  You could revive that old 80/120/160/200GB ATA/IDE Hard Drive that’s collecting dust in your drawer.  Imagine viewing your precious media files through your shiny Xbox 360.  Cool huh?  Yeah!

 03 - USB 2.0 External 2.5 in. HDD Enclosure Kit

Hardware Needed:

   Xbox 360 System (Power Adapter, Video Cables, Controllers, Video Display & Games)

   3.5” ATA(IDE) Hard Disk Drive (preferably 60+GB Storage Capacity)

   3.5” ATA(IDE) Hard Disk Drive USB 2.0 External Enclosure Unit (w/ Fan):  $10-$30

   USB 2.0 Data Cable – Standard A/B Plug (usually included with the External Enclosure Unit)

   5V/12V AC/DC Power Adapter (usually included with the External Enclosure Unit)

Software Needed:

   Microsoft Windows XP or later Operating System

   FAT32 Formatting Software (Paragon Partition Manager, Partition Magic, Win98 FDisk/Format)

Tools Needed:

   Philips-Type Precision Screw Driver Set

   Mini Screw Driver or Small Tweezer (for changing Hard Drive Jumper Pins)

   Dry Cleaning Cloth or Dry Tissue Paper (for dust cleaning)

04 - USB 2.0 External 2.5 in. HDD Enclosure Parts

Skills Needed:

   Basic Hardware Assembly Skills

   Basic Electronics Skills

   Basic PC & Windows Operating Skills

Alternative Hard Disk Drive & External Enclosures:

   3.5” SATA Hard Disk Drive w/ corresponding HDD USB 2.0 External Enclosure Unit (w/ Fan)

   2.5” ATA(IDE) Hard Disk Drive w/ corresponding HDD USB 2.0 External Enclosure Unit

   2.5” SATA Hard Disk Drive w/ corresponding HDD USB 2.0 External Enclosure Unit

The Main Phases & Individual Steps:

  1. Avoid transferring static electricity to any electronic devices.
    1. Attach a grounding cable to your wrist whose other end is connected to a grounded metal or outlet.
    2. Or firmly hold a grounded metal surface to dissipate any static electricity in your body.
  2. Install the Hard Disk Drive in a compatible USB 2.0 External Enclosure Unit.
    1. Back-up important files from the old hard drive that you wish to use.
    2. Use a dry cleaning cloth or dry tissue to remove any dust or debris from the old hard drive (be careful not to break or scratch any component).
    3. Refer to the user’s manual in the External Enclosure Kit that you will use for more detailed instructions on how to install your HDD in it.
    4. The HDD must be set as “Master,” if not, configure it to “Master” by moving the jumper pins with a pair of tweezers.  Refer to the instructions on the drive’s label,  manual or website.
    5. Firmly attach the HDD to the connector(s) of the External Enclosure Circuit.
    6. Enclose the HDD and the Circuit with the External Enclosure.
    7. Firmly place the screws to secure the new External USB Hard Drive.

06 - USB 2.0 External 2.5 in. HDD Enclosure Case

  1. Connecting the External USB Hard Drive to your Windows PC.
    1. Connect the Power Cable to the Power Adapter.
    2. Connect the Power Adapter to the new External USB Hard Drive.
    3. Connect the B-plug of the USB 2.0 Data Cable to the External USB Hard Drive.
    4. Connect the A-plug of the USB 2.0 Data Cable to the USB Slot of the PC.
    5. Plug the Power Cable of the External USB Hard Drive to an AC Power outlet of the RIGHT Voltage.
    6. Switch-on the External USB Hard Drive.  The HDD inside should start to spin-up.
    7. Let Windows detect the new hardware and wait for ready to use indication.
  2. Format the External HDD Unit (HDD capacity is less than 32GB)
    1. If HDD capacity is less than 32GB, open windows explorer.
    2. Right-click the drive and click format to run formatting tool of Windows.
    3. Choose FAT32 as File System, enter Label or Volume Name and leave other settings to default.
    4. Click start to format the drive.
    5. Wait for the format process to finish.
  3. Format the External HDD Unit (HDD capacity is more than 32GB – Windows XP does not natively support partitioning and formatting FAT32 volumes larger than 32GB, a special Application will be needed)
    1. Run the Partitioning & Formatting Software to setup.
    2. Select the Physical HDD.
    3. Run command to Delete/Remove all partitions in the External USB Hard Drive.
    4. Run command to Create a new partition in the External USB Hard Drive.
    5. Run command to Format the new partition in the External USB Hard Drive using the FAT32 Files System.
    6. Add Label or Volume Name for the partition/drive.
    7. Run command to execute/commit the actions to the External USB Hard Drive.
    8. Wait for the partition/format process to finish.
  4. Transfer your media files in the new volume in the External USB Hard Drive.
    1. Open the new volume in My Computer/Windows Explorer.
    2. Transfer you media files and organize them as desired.
    3. Wait for the transfer process to completely finish.
  5. Safely Removing the External USB Hard Drive from the Windows PC.
    1. Close any open Explorer window relating to the External USB Hard Drive.
    2. Click the “Safely Remove Hardware” icon in the System Tray Notification Area.
    3. Click to Select “Safely Remove Hardware”.
    4. Wait for the “You can now Safely Remove the Hardware” notification.
    5. Disconnect the A-plug of the USB 2.0 Data Cable from the USB Slot of the PC.
    6. Turn-off the External USB Hard Drive.  The HDD inside should start to spin-down.
    7. Un-plug the Power Cable of the External USB Hard Drive from the AC Power outlet.
  6. Connecting to a Xbox 360 and viewing your files.
    1. Bring the External USB Hard Drive (along with the Data Cable & Power Adapter) near the Xbox 360 console.
    2. Connect the A-plug of the USB 2.0 Data Cable to the USB Slot of the Xbox 360.
    3. Plug the Power Cable of the External USB Hard Drive to an AC Power outlet of the RIGHT Voltage.
    4. Switch-on the External USB Hard Drive.  The HDD inside should start to spin-up.
    5. Let Xbox 360 detect the new hardware and wait for ready to use indication.
    6. Run Media Center, Choose Portable Device to open the USB Storage File Browser.
    7. View your media files.
  7. Safely Removing the External USB Hard Drive from the Xbox 360.
    1. Close any open File Browser relating to the External USB Hard Drive.
    2. Click the “Safely Remove Hardware” icon.
    3. Click to Select “Safely Remove Hardware”.
    4. Wait for the “You can now Safely Remove the Hardware” notification.
    5. Disconnect the A-plug of the USB 2.0 Data Cable from the USB Slot of the Xbox 360.
    6. Turn-off the External USB Hard Drive.  The HDD inside should start to spin-down.
    7. Un-plug the Power Cable of the External USB Hard Drive from the AC Power outlet.

08 - Xbox360 Console & USB 2.0 External 2.5 in. HDD Enclosure

Benefits:

   Save from $110 to $140

   Make use of your old/idle Hard Drive

   View your Media Files from Xbox 360

   Have a High-Capacity Portable External USB Hard Drive

   Have a High-Capacity Portable Back-up USB Hard Drive

   Have a High-Capacity Media File Storage for your Xbox 360

   Have a “Staging Area” for other more complicated & more exciting mods/hacks

   Personal Satisfaction & Bragging Rights (Yeah!)

P.S.: A Little more about the Xbox.

Xbox 360 was made available on November 2005 in the USA, Mexico and Canada.  It was released in Europe and Japan in December 2005, other countries followed in the following year.  The console was completely sold out  upon release in all regions except Japan.  With only a year in the market, Xbox 360 was launched in at least 36 countries, the highest first year distribution for a video game console.  As of January 2010, over 39 million Xbox 360 units have been sold.

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Tags: Case, CPU, games, mod, Ram, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox 360 External Hard Drive, Xbox 360 Hacks, Xbox 360 Mods

CES 7 Bill Gates Keynote Overview

Posted on January 10th, 2007 | by

The most exciting keynote speech of CES is Bill Gates. If you have not heard him speak you should definitely try to catch a speech of his sometime. At this year’s CES he discussed Windows Vista, Windows Live, Vista MCE, The Zune, Xbox 360, Games for Windows, and much more. Check out our entire overview of the keynote!

Read the Full Article: ThinkComputers.org

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Microsoft Gears Up For the Holiday Season @ ThinkGaming.org

Posted on September 29th, 2006 | by

At X06 Microsoft showcased an extensive, groundbreaking collection of games for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, Games for Windows and Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360. For the holiday season and beyond, Microsoft offers amazing experiences for all types of gamers – ranging from the hard-core gamer with the award-winning Gears of War to the gamer interested in a variety of genres with the broad reach title Viva Pinata. Read on to check out the full list of games for Xbox 360 and Windows. It is going to be a great holiday season!!

Read the Full Article: ThinkComputers.org

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RedOctane Announces Guitar Hero II For Xbox 36 @ ThinkGaming.org

Posted on September 28th, 2006 | by

Guitar Hero II is going to be rocking a new stage! RedOctane announced today that the Guitar Hero crew will bring their award-winning tour to the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. This is amazing news!! Check out the picture of the new Xbox 360 guitar…looks AWESOME!!!

Read the Full Article: ThinkComputers.org

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Details of ATI\’s Xbox 360 GPU unveiled

Posted on May 20th, 2005 | by

WITH MICROSOFT\’S OFFICIAL announcement of its next-generation Xbox 360 console this week, ATI has decided to disclose some of the architectural details of the graphics processor that it created for the system. I had a brief but enlightening conversation with Bob Feldstein, Vice President of Engineering at ATI, who helped oversee the Xbox 360 GPU project. He spelled out some of the GPU\’s details for me, and they\’re definitely intriguing. Read on to get my graphics-geeky take on the inner workings of the Xbox 360 GPU.

Read the Full Article: Tech Report

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Tags: Xbox, Xbox 360