Will you buy the Kinect?

yes, at launch or during the holiday season
maybe later
no

 





Crave Online

Week of December 21, 2003
Chihiro GBA (2)
>> Hikaru/90-26 is back and just released a new version of Chihirox(info). Chihirox integrates all the emulator ports made by Hikaru in 1 easy to use menu-based dashboard.

What's new/fixed:
* Using the source code of VBA1.7 (GBA emu)
* 4 additional types of graphic filters (GBA emu)
* Adjustment of automatic frame skip (GBA emu)
* Build using XDK-1.00.5344.01
* Features accessible from browser

Above info is what I made up by trying to translate Hikaru's homepage (in japanese) with babel. It might contain errors ... so if you can translate japanese to english ... please mail me the full/correct translation. Thx :-)

Official Site: http://www.cwo.zaq.ne.jp/90-26/
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: xbins.org

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(Saturday 27 December 2003 20:39 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

The Most Awaited Games Of 2004
>> From games.slashdot.org:
[QUOTE]
Thanks to 1UP for its end-of-year summary feature, in which the site editors discuss the most intriguing and perkiest gaming events of the year, but also "look ahead at the newborn trends of 2004." Next year's particularly lusted-after games include Psychonauts ("Double Fine's Xbox platformer has been delayed a lot now, which can sometimes spell trouble, but I have faith in them to deliver something amazing when they do get around to it"), Metal Gear Solid 3 ("After the talking-heads nightmare of Metal Gear Solid 2, I can't wait to just trot off into the jungle and start killing people"), and Halo 2 ("With a gun in each hand and the ability to hijack vehicles, this one has the potential to be as popular as the first one continues to be.").
[/QUOTE]

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(Saturday 27 December 2003 17:02 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Pictures of the Xecuter 2.3B
>> We received pictures of the Xecuter2.3b that came in at the official Xecuter resellers this week. Thanks goes to system-mods.com for these pictures.
The X2.3 PRO never reached production stage, so these X2.3b PROs are the first PROs since the X2.2 PRO.

Click images for larger view

More pictures: X2.3b PRO modchip 3d view - X2.3b PRO modchip detailed topview

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(Friday 26 December 2003 23:22 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

NeoGenesis v15
>> New version of NeoGenesis(info) - a Genesis/Megadrive/32X/SegaCD/MegaCD Emulator for Xbox.
What's new/fixed:
* Fixed funky sound in Phantasy Star 2
* Fixed ISO9660 + ISO/MP3 bug

Official Site: http://xport.xbox-scene.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: forums.xbox-scene.com and xbins.org

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(Friday 26 December 2003 18:35 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Xenium Hardware Description
>> From ozxodus.com:
[QUOTE]

The following is a brief description of the componentry found on the XENIUM as seen in the recently released sneak preview photos.

* Removable D0 Connector - This connector and wire loom will allow the modchip to be removed without any desoldering when installed using the Pin Header option.

* Quick Solder + Wire Install - The XENIUM is able to be soldered directly onto the LPC bus by using the Quick Solder installation method, larger solder pads also cater for those users who wish to install the XENIUM using wires.

* Power (V1.5) - Primerily to be used for the solderless install of the Xenium into v1.5 consoles.

* Pin Header (+ D0 Control) - Female socket for the optional Pin Header or Solderless Adaptor installation methods.

* Emergency System Recovery - The XENIUM will never be rendered useless as a result of a bad flash or bad update, the flick of a switch to enable the XENIUM's inbuilt recovery mode. A solder pad on the underside of the device allows for easy installation of an optional external switch.

* Expansion Port, RGB LED & Dual SPI - Unlimited upgrade options are available for the XENIUM with it's dual Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) ports. An External Tri-Color (RGB) LED can also be installed for monitoring the XENIUM's Status.

* Controller - CPLD Controller.

* Status LED - Programmable ultra bright Tri-Color (RGB) Status LED.

* 2Meg Memory - 2Mb Flash Memory for a variety of different bios sizes.
[/QUOTE]

Official Site: http://www.ozxodus.com

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(Friday 26 December 2003 16:24 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Xenesis 0.97b - Fixed sound
>> Carcharius released a quick release fix for Xenesis(info) 0.97. From nfo:
[QUOTE]
This is a quick update which fixes an issue with the music in some games. Specifically Phantasy Star 2 but probably others too.
There are also a couple of other small fixes in there
[/QUOTE]

Official Site: n/a, by Carcharius (official forum thread)
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: forums.xbox-scene.com and xbins.org

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(Friday 26 December 2003 16:22 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

EvoxDTSR 12.25.03
>> From nfo:
[QUOTE]
Created on Windows XP, so if you've got a diff OS and are having problems please let me know. There aren't any bugs I'm aware of, but if ya find one..Again let me know. I created EvoXDTSR because I didn't really like the UI of ETT. It was rather big, and had plenty of open space. Also, the logging was really screwy. I think my UI is a bit better, but that's for you to decide. I can be contacted on EFNet in the channel #mphacking for any questions. Feel free to stop by.

Features:
* All the standard TSR commands
* Saves your breakpoint info when using set/enable/disable/clear
* Can automatically log to file
* Can freeze/unfreeze the game when doing a search (Don't know if this is needed, but it only took a few secs to put in)
[/QUOTE]

Official Site/News-Source: trainers.evolutionx.info (by ddh - #mphacking EFnet)
Download: here

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(Thursday 25 December 2003 21:30 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

SparkEdit 2.5
>> A new version of Halo game editor/mod SparkEdit(info) has been released.
What's new/fixed:
* Added new tab-based tool interface
* Added Mesh info to edit tab; click on a mesh, get info
* Added model rendering to sparkedit
* Added frustum culling for BSP and models
* Moved options out of ini file; all options are done in the GUI
* Added Look Mode (right double mouse click to toggle)
* Added object rotation editing (NOTE: some object only rotate in yaw)
* More complete texturing (most textures load now)
* Added XBOX mapfile compression (for LAN parties, tutorial coming soon by Zipl0c)
* Added "View Info" for selected objects to show that object's properties (bitmaps, models, meta info)
* Added support for viewing new tags (bipeds, devices, equipment, weapons, etc)
* Added framerate display

Official Site: http://www.halomods.com
Download: here
News-Source: Hyper Gamer

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(Thursday 25 December 2003 19:22 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Happy Holidays
>> Just wanted to wish everyone a safe and fun Holiday.

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(Thursday 25 December 2003 12:12 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Final Burn Alpha X Beta 4.1
>> Lantus and TMaul released a new version of FBAx(info). What's new/fixed:
* Merged in current FBA Win32 v0.2.94.98 source code.
* DIP switch values are now saved correctly.
* Fixed DIP switch crash bug.
* Added Title Icon.

Official Site: http://www.lantus-x.com/FBAx/
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: xbins.org

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(Thursday 25 December 2003 09:24 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

New version of all Xport releases
>> Xport did a HUGE update for of all his releases: AtariXLBox(info) v5, NeoPopX(info) v4, FMSXBox(info) v6, BlissX(info) v5, WinSTonX(info) v5, Z26X(info) v4, SMSPlusX(info) v8, HUGO-X(info) v10, KegsX(info) v3, PCSXBox(info) v11, Vice64x(info) v4, Vice20X(info) v3, Vicepetx(info) v2, AdamX(info) v2, WonderSwanX(info) v2, FCEUltraX(info) v15, XBoyAdvance(info) v9 and NeoGenesis(info) v14.

What's new/fixed (same for all releases):
* ISO9660 support
* Simplified menus
* Help menu
* New button options from Game Selection menu :
X - Configure Game
BLACK - Delete save files for selected game
WHITE - Adds/Removes selection as a favorite
* HQ2X graphics filter
* Option to startup with background music disabled
* Option to startup on the favorites game selection screen or the regular game selection screen
* Option to confirm overwriting save states
* Support for Linux Relax sharing
At this time, your linux share name must contain the "/" character somewhere if you want it to be recognized as a linux share.
For example :
rlxshare=/home/player/roms@192.168.1.30:1400
* Possible Samba fix/improvement : see next item
* New network configuration parameters : XBox IP, Subnet Mask, Gateway IP.
Access these through the Configuration -] Network Options menu or change them in the INI file :
[GENERAL]
LOCAL_IP=192.168.1.30
SUBNET_MASK=255.255.255.0
GATEWAY_IP=192.168.1.254
LOCAL_IP is the XBox IP address
SUBNET_MASK is the subnet mask
GATEWAY_IP is your default gateway
Set these to the same values you use in your XBMP configuration file.
This might help people with Samba issues.

Official Site: http://xport.xbox-scene.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: forums.xbox-scene.com and xbins.org

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(Thursday 25 December 2003 08:13 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

XBtool v1.0.12
>> XBtool(info) is a BIOS Pack, Unpack, and Patch Tool. What's new/fixed:
* Fix: crash when converting to BFM via save.
* Fix: patched x2 4979 not recognized after patching.
* Tweaked config handling for better error catching and logging (xbflash).
* Optional installer package.

Official Site: http://home.alltel.net/nghtshd/xbtool.html
Download: normal zipped version - installer version
News-Source: xbins.org

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 23:17 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Xenium Preview Photos Released
>> It's all still very new and there's a lot of news today - so for those who missed it - in short: XENIUM is a new modchip in development made by the alliance of Team Xodus (Matrix/Chameleon) and OzXChip.
From ozxodus.com:
[QUOTE]
Unlike many other teams who choose to hype their products for months prior to release OzXodus decided to develop the XENIUM in secrecy and then announce the product just days before large scale production begins. The XENIUM will be available for purchase in the very near future and in the coming days OzXodus will be announcing it's feature set, pricing structure and availability. Pre-production samples are currently being sent out to selected members of the Xbox community for final testing and feedback. OzXodus have released a few photos of the XENIUM as a sneak preview of things to come. Merry Christmas to all from the OzXodus Team.
[/QUOTE]


Click on image for full view


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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 22:18 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

XBOX SDK 5849 December COMPLEX
>> COMPLEX released the December XDK released by MS earlier this month.
From the nfo:
[QUOTE]
Release Info:
COMPLEX is proud to present XBOX SDK 5849 December. Digital signatures removed to protect the guilty. This release is for all the great xbox homebrew developers out there. COMPLEX loves you all !!

Notes:
* Supports Visual Studio.Net 2003
* We've included the remote recovery and recovery disc for those who have an official debug kit.
[/QUOTE]

Official Site: n/a, by COMPLEX
Download: n/a (copyrighted code)

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 21:05 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Xebian Xmas release 1.0.0
>> Xbox-Linux released a new version of Xebian(info).
What's new/fixed:
* Hopefully fixed the problem xdm not starting after reboot
* Updated xine lib to rc3
* Downgraded bash to the original debian release one

Official Site: http://xbox-linux.sourceforge.net
Download: here[sourceforge.net]
News-Source: Xbox-Linux Mailinglist

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 20:40 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Complex Tools 1.50 COMPLEX
>> Complex Tools(info) is a game manager utility native to the xbox
Features:
- Rip any XBOX DVD Game to drives E, F and G
- Smart folder naming. install folders will be named using embedded name in xbe when extracting isos, when using rars rar name is used.
- Launch installed titles with the press of a button.
- Uninstall titles with the press of a button
- UnRAR support for easy installation of releases.
- "On the fly" ISO extraction from RAR archives.
- Extract Xbox .iso images easily.
- Samba Share support : Unrar and extract isos to your Xbox from a PC share.
- SFV Checker to check for bad CRCs in your releases.
- Built in FTP Server.
- Media Patching Option.
- MP3/S3M/MOD/XM/IT background music player.
- Supports PX-HDD paths.
- Easy to configure XML file.
- informative interface that reports installed games disk space used.


Official Site: http://forums.maxconsole.net
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: xbins.org

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 20:32 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Xmas Gift From XFD
>> From the readme..
Author: The New XFD Team (Wishi, Noxz, MorseKode, SHiZNO)

Story Synopsis:
Santa's elves have dropped all his presents! Get in the sleigh and go pick them up. But watch out, there's coal in them tha mountains!

Release Notes:
We decided a very short time ago we wanted to do an Xmas game and set ourselves the challenge of doing it in a week. Well, we kinda did it in the last few days and drank coffee and ate crumpets for half the week. Doh!
Anyhow, here it is, enjoy or don't. I'm tired!
We'll have more team releases coming soon so keep on the lookout! We might even spend more than a week on some :)

Controls:Left analog stick/Dpad - Move left/right.

AND OF COURSE -MERRY XMAS- TO YOU ALL!


Official Site: http://www.xfactordev.net
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: xbins.org

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 20:20 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Xenesis v0.97
>> Xenesis(info) is a port from Gens to the xbox.
Whats New/Fixed:
Completely rewritten
- New improved UI, better look and feel (no more purple :o( )
- New config file format - not compatible with previous version
- Improved favourite support - not compatible with previous version
- Improved cheat code support
- More graphics filtering options (including HQ2X which is a bit on the slow side)

No more rom path or rom sharing issues to worry about!!
New browsing ability - access all drives and folders including dvd-rom.
Add required roms/folders (from any source - local, DVD, network etc) to favourites.
Set 'Start in Favourites' option to automatically go to favourites on startup.

Full xbox save game compatability
- each game gets its own save game which stores save states, settings, cheat codes
- Control configuration can be saved individually for each game

Improved controller menus
- Now supports analog and d-pad at the same time (if analog support turned on)
- Now allows for Team player (4 player adapter) to be set on port 2
may not work correctly with some games due to bugs in Gens source e.g. columns 3

SMB/Relax network share support
- load roms + sega cd images/mp3s from a windows/Relax share
- mp3's get cached on xbox utility drive
- Specify names and paths for shares using the UI Options menu.
- Name is straightforward - e.g. Genesis Roms
- share names are specified in the same manner as the XBMP shares e.g. smb://user:pass@computer/share
(haven't tried XBMC myself yet so don't know if they are the same)

ISO9660 disc support
- load roms + sega cd images/mp3s from iso9660 format discs
- mp3's get cached on xbox utility drive
- reading of discs seems to be a bit flaky - but that could be some of the discs I was burning

Simple skinning support
- Put skins in the \skins folder
- On the fly skin previewer (no need for pre built preview images)
- UI colours can be adjusted using built in colour chooser

Screenshot support
- save up to 10 screenshots per rom
- browse screenshots using left/right on d-pad in game select screen
- Use left trigger + right trigger + Back to take a screenshot

Support for Genesis Collective games database
- display game information
- display Game Genie cheat codes
- Display game cheats
- display game title shots and in game shots
- requires a copy of GCOffline from www.genesiscollective.com
- use White button from game select screen to display, then d-pad to scroll and Left/Right trigger to change page
- unzip GCOffline to your xbox, set the path using the UI Options menu

Automatic CD detection
- choose to boot Sega CD automatically if detected
- type of CD indicated (Sega CD, Audio CD, iso9660 or xbox format)


Official Site: n/a (by carcharius)
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: xbins


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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 19:46 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

OzXodus.com officially launched
>>
"Welcome to the Official OzXodus website. OzXodus is an alliance formed between OzXChip and Xodus to combine their expertise to bring some innovative designs to the XBox community.

The debut project for the newly formed OzXodus is the development of the what we consider the first fourth generation modchip known as the Xenium."

"The formation of the OzXodus alliance has lead to the development of what we believe to be the neXt generation of upgrade kits for your console in the form of the XENIUM.

The XENIUM will set new standards in functionality, upgradability and control over your console with a price-tag that will be as amazing as the device itself."

Official Site: www.ozxodus.com
XS Support Forums: OzXodus Chips (XENIUM)

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 15:11 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

X2.3B Lite/Lite+/Pro Installation Guides
>> From teamxecuter.com:
[QUOTE]
We've made it as step-by-step as possible.

More comprehensive guides to flashing and bios management will follow shortly http://www.teamxecuter.com/x23b.htm
[/QUOTE]

Here also some pictures of the X2.3B modchips: X2.3B Lite, X2.3B Lite+, X2.3B Pro

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 13:31 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Official news update from Team Xecuter about X2.3B + X2.3 fixes
>> From teamxecuter.com:
[QUOTE]
OK here's a few updates.

First of all it has become apparent that the X2.3 Lite & Lite+ USB adapter is not working on some consoles. We have found that certain versions have a larger socket header which makes the adapter a little loose. We've also found a small batch of adapters that have an error on the PCB which stops one of the gamepad ports from working. This is an intermittent issue and all suppliers have been shipped stocks of spare parts to send out to those who need them. We can only apologize for the inconvenience and promise to work with you to resolve the issue.

We have been active on our forums to help those with problems. Many have posted fixes and success stories, but of course there will always be some who just can't get it to work. We have made sure all customers of official retailers are in the position to return their non working mod for a new Xecuter 2.3B, which is a slightly modified version that no longer needs the 3.3v source. More info on that in a couple of hours - we're just finishing up the guides for you.

Finally we would like to offer our congratulations to OzX & Xodus in their new partnership. We are especially glad that Xodus have fixed themselves up after their recent debacle and we look forward to a healthy bout of competition in the new year.

On that note from all the staff at Xecuter we wish the entire scene a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. See you in 2004 !
[/QUOTE]

Here's a picture of the Xecuter2.3b LITE. Easy to recognise with the new color (X2.3 are red pcbs).


I found this thread (by xecuter) for those who have problems with their original X2.3 lite/liteplus:
[QUOTE]
OK its become obvious that there seems to be an intermittent issue with some xbox's and the 2.3 lite and lite+
First of all the mod does work. The problems are a small minority of users - but granted we accept it is a larger amount than usual.

For 2.3 Lite
1. If you get the cromwell screen but your game pad is not working on 1 or more of the ports then you either don't have a tight connection between the adapter and the motherboard (some suggest use some electrical tape) or you have a faulty usb adapter.
Solution: Official suppliers have been sent spare parts - so simply request the adapter.
2. If you do not get the cromwell screen and you get a FRAG but your mod lights up with 2 blue LED's then you either have a bad ground connection or your LPC points need resoldering or the mod is not stuck to the side of the case as low as possible to the motherboard with the wires nice and flat against the motherboard.
Solution: Position the mod as instructed. If you still get FRAG then make sure your ground points all connected correctly with the star washer. You can also add the pin header d0/ground adapter to add yet another ground. Messy yes but it might solve your problem. If this still doesnt work send the mod back to your supplier for a replacement.
You can also try to cut the 2 black wires that go to the usb adapter and solder them to LPC#6 (5v).
3. If you do not get the cromwell screen and you get a FRAG plus your blue LED's do not lite up this indicates you have no power. Try to fit the USB adapter firnly and correctly with all cables plugged in correctly. If still no luck - send the mod back to your supplier for a replacement.

For 2.3 Lite+
1. Read all points above.
2. Make sure the d0 is prepped first. Use a fibre glass pen or an exacto kinfe to clean up the area so a metal contact shows through. Fit the mod and screw in as tight as it will go without going in too hard. You should feel the pressure easily if you take your time. Make sure the switch is fitted correctly and then disable the mod. Turn the power on the xbox and you should get 2 blue led's and a green led. if the green led flickers on/off it is not a solid connection (this normally points towards a badly prepped or none prepped d0). If you do not get the green led simply wiggle the mod around gently until you do. While doing all this there is no need to have your hard drive or dvd rom connected. When you get all 3 leds turn off the xbox. Enable your mod. Turn the xbox on. Th green led will go off and you should get the cromwell screen or the tray will eject with no video on screen (v1.4 v1.5 boxes). if you gt a FRAG or the default ms dash simply repeat the "wiggling" procedure. I've not ever spent more than 60 seconds getting a mod to work like this.

If you have tried all of the above then it's obviousley possible your mod is faulty. There is no need to freak out this does happen in electrical manufacturing. However all users who buy from official sources are fully supported and you have a guarantee. Simply contact your distributor and get them to replace with a new mod.
[/QUOTE]

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 12:14 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

OzX and Xodus team up
>> From a ozxchip member..
It is with great pleasure at this festive time of the year that we announce that an alliance has been formed between the two teams of Xodus and OzXChip, this new entity will be known as OzXodus.

Following initial contact between several core members of each team we discovered that the groups shared an uncanny similarity in their philosophy and goals. With recent events changing the operations of both teams, the decision was made to form an alliance that would allow both teams to complement the other's areas of expertise.

The formation of the OzXodus alliance has lead to the development of the XENIUM which we believe to be the neXt generation of upgrade kits for your console. The XENIUM will set new standards in functionality, upgradability and control over your console with a price-tag that will be as amazing as the device itself.

OzXodus will also be introducing a new business model that should offer some great benefits to the end user as well as offering some unique opportunities for retailers of console hardware.

Stay tuned.......


Official Site OzXodus: http://www.ozxodus.com
Official Site Xodus: http://www.xodus-chip.com
Official Site OzXChip: http://www.ozxchip.com

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 06:10 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

HCE Customizer v1.6.1 Beta 1
>> New version of HCE Customizer(info) is released. What's new/fixed:
* fixed: finished bg pic previewing!
* added: "create package", saves ini and bg appropriately to hcec directory in "my projects\[project name]"
* fixed: other small bugs
* fixed: did i mention i finished bg pic preview!

Official Site: n/a, by raz0r (aka mastertito4) & CLuis
Download: here
News-Source: xbins.org

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(Wednesday 24 December 2003 06:05 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Xecuter 2.3B guides + new info
>> Team Xecuter released the wire and headerpin install guides for the Xecuter2.3B Lite. As we said in an earlier post, the X2.3B is a revision of the original X2.3, the usb-connection (used for power) is gone and they use LPC#6 (5v) to get all the power now.
For the wire install: go here
For the headerpin install: go here

For those of you who have power problems with their original X2.3 Lite, you can try to cut the 2 black wires that go to the usb adapter and solder them to LPC#6 (5v).

Also, I can now confirm that there are no X2.3 PRO modchips. First stock of PRO's since X2.2 are now in stores and they are all already X2.3B.

Source: Team Xecuter.


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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 23:10 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

EvoX Trainers Telnet v1.0b
>> 'EvoX Trainers Telnet' is a much simpler way to send the commands to EvoX to make trainers. From readme:
[QUOTE]
Known Bugs in this version
1. The Screen Preview may not work with all video capture cards
2. The info window gets echo’s and blocks
3. Log file gets echo’s and blocks saved with it
4. Does not like to disconnect all the time
Other then that I cant find anything else wrong with it. If you find a bug that's not on here more then likely I found it to ;) and it will be fixed in the next version.
[/QUOTE]

Official Site: n/a, by Mandragor
Download: here
News-Source: trainers.evolutionx.info

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 20:55 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Visit Xbox-Linux at 20C3
>> From xbox-linux.sourceforge.net:
[QUOTE]
Visit us (Xbox-Linux Team) at the 20C3 on Sunday, December 28th; there will be two two-hours presentations about Xbox hacking at 10:00 and 12:00 in the morning.
[/QUOTE]

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 20:17 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Evox Trainer Maker 1.0 Full
>> A new version of Easy EvoX Trainer Maker(info) has been reelased. What's new/fixed:
+ Added the ability to import Title ID and TimeStamp from XBE
+ Fixed some minor bugs
+ Changed the default directories (things were getting messy)

Official Site/News-Source: http://trainers.maxconsole.com
Download: here

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 20:15 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Gentoox on TechTV
>> From techtv.com:
[QUOTE]
Linux on your Xbox turns your console into the perfect snoop.
Watch today at 11:30 p.m., tomorrow at 2:30 a.m., and Saturday 12/27 at 10:30 p.m. Eastern.

The folks at ShALLaX have the answer to every hacker's wet dream, a Linux distribution specifically designed for the Xbox. It's called GentooX.
GentooX is a tweaked distro of Gentoo designed to run at television resolutions. It'll run just about any Linux program, and the fine people at ShALLaX can show you how to run Windows 98 on your Xbox through GentooX. Use GentooX for spying on your network with AIM Sniff, or use it to expand your Xbox gaming experience to include Linux and PC games. The choice is yours.
[/QUOTE]

Note: Like ShALLaX mentions on his website, "ShALLaX" is not a group of people, but just 1 person.
Anyone that can record the episode on their PC, please do so for all non americans, and send us an email :)

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 18:57 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Halo Cache Editor v0.5 and HCE Customizer v1.6 B2 *updated*
>> HCE will allow you to edit your cache files directly on your
xbox without the need of a pc.
Whats New/Fixed:
-Totally recoded the program so its much much more stable now ;)
-Reading of custom ini files (unlimited pages/items)
-All PAL/NTSC/GER singleplayer and multiplayer levels
-Skin selection (use HCEC to create your own skins)
-Background files (jpg, bmp, png)
-Start Halo after you edited your cache files


A new version of HCE Customizer(info) has also been released:
-fixed: ini loading
-fixed: many small bug fixes
-added: .bmp,.jpg, and .png BG importing (to be finished soon)
-fixed: adjusted preview size, now 75% of real size (all objects)

Official Site: n/a (HCE by XBOX War3z & NikeJustDoItOk?) (HCE Customizer by raz0r (aka mastertito4) & CLuis)
Download HCE: n/a (built with XDK)
Download HCE Customizer : here
News-Source: xbins.org


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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 18:13 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Avalaunch 0.48.3
>> Avalaunch(info) is a dashboard replacement for the xbox
Whats New/Fixed:
-Enabled game ripper ( start on dvd-icon =] backup ). Atm it only puts it in f:\games, so be aware of the current limitations
-Fixed boot a lot
-Fixed boostmode infoscreen so it doesn't interfere with menu ( but menu acts somewhat slower )
-Rewrote parts of autoupdater for smarter updates
-Fixed internet skinselector so it doesn't "blank" the list when returning from servers with many skins
-Fixed some other stuff, but too tired to remember.
- merry xmas!


Official Forums: http://forums.xbox-scene.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: xbins.org and http://forums.xbox-scene.com

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 15:59 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

'EvolutionX' Lan House In Brazil
>> There's a pretty special LAN House in Brazil. Not only the 'house' is called 'Evolutionx' and uses the well known Evolutionx-logo, all their xbox consoles are also modified with modchip, large HDD ... and ofcourse they're using the EvolutionX(info) dashboard.

You can check out pictures of the LAN House here.

Official Site: http://www.portalhost.com.br/evolutionx/
News-Source: maxconsole.com

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 14:46 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Forbes: PlayStation 2 Vs. Xbox
>> Her some interesting number forbes.com released today.

Estimated North American shipments in 2003: 3.4 million (Xbox) - 9.4 million (PS2)
Installed base: 8.5 million (Xbox) - 24 million (PS2)
Market share: 21.8% (Xbox) - 62% (PS2)
Most popular game, copies sold: Halo, about 637,000 (Xbox) - Madden NFL 2004, about 2.3 million (PS2)
Number of subscribers to online service: 500,000 (Xbox) - 1.7 million (PS2)

For more check forbes.com.

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 07:33 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

(Korea) Microsoft struggles with lackluster Xbox sales
>> From koreaherald.co.kr:
[QUOTE]
Just a year ago, Microsoft Korea, a unit of U.S.-based software giant Microsoft Corp., envisioned a bright future for its spiffy Xbox video game console. On Sunday, the company celebrated the one-year anniversary of the launch with much fanfare.

Microsoft Korea initially aimed to sell 150,000 units during the first year. However, sales have fallen far short of this target at just 60,000 units.
Its rival game console, the PlayStation 2 marketed by Sony Korea, is clearly ahead in the race. The Korean market has so far snapped up 600,000 PlayStation 2 game consoles since its debut 22 months ago.
[/QUOTE]

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(Tuesday 23 December 2003 07:12 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

New Xecuter2.3 revision B
>> It looks like all new stock the official Xecuter2.3 Lite/Lite+/Pro resellers get are new revision 'B' versions (X2.3b).
Apparently Team Xecuter got rid of the USB-adaptor (used to get power for the modchip) and is now using a normal point again (less problems with ground). Removing the USB-adaptor should also make production cheaper.

It looks like they take all power from LPC#6 (VCC5 - 5v) now.
Apparently only ground (LPC#2 and LPC#12) and 3.3v (LPC#9) are removed from xbox v1.5, LPC#6 (5v) should still be there. Even if not or if MS removes it later there's a big alternative 5v presoldered point on the rightside of the LPC.
X2.3b has apparently been changed so it doesn't need 3.3v anymore (or they convert the 5v to 3.3v where needed).

As the Xecuter2.3 Pro weren't available yet (first stock is coming in this week), I guess the pros will be directly 2.3b. Will be confirmed later.

Above info is not 'official' info, we're waiting for an official news release from Team Xecuter.
More info/update soon.

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(Monday 22 December 2003 18:30 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

More new tutorials
>> Here are a few new tutorials ... more will follow soon. If you want to help to scene, feel free to send us your tutorial here. Thanks to everyone helping out :)

* Total N00b Guide To Everything
By mastertito4 - read now

* Enlightened S-Controller Buttons
By rondcrasher - read now

* Adding LED's to Madcatz Micron Controller
By P._Box - read now

* Adding LED's to the controller ports without drilling holes and hot glue
By n/a - read now

* How to make a cheapmod from a preprogrammed sst29lf020
By Littlejonny - read now

* How to Make an Xbox to USB Cable That Still Works on Your Xbox and Doesn't Look Like Ass
By PlastiKK_ - read now

* Clear Jewel while watching your TV
By PeteTheMagicBum - read now

* UPDATED: Ultimate jewel mod
By GuyBrush U. ThreepWood - read now

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(Monday 22 December 2003 14:23 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Update of neXgen soon
>> From xboxopensource.com:
[QUOTE]
Well as the festive season is near Team Xos would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

We will have our update of nexgen soon. We will also continue to work on nexgen until we get bored of it or until we are satisfied with it.
[/QUOTE]

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(Monday 22 December 2003 12:54 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

ATI Reports Record Revenues
>> From TeamXbox.com:
[QUOTE]
ATI Technologies Inc. announced today its financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2004, ending November 30, 2003. The graphics chipmaker reported record revenues of U.S. $469.7 million, a 40% increase relative to the first quarter of fiscal 2003.

"Product leadership is enabling ATI to win new customers and penetrate new markets today," said KY Ho, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ATI. "Our focused execution on delivering our product roadmap is attracting new channel partners and establishing broader distribution for the future."
Last summer, ATI announced it entered a technology agreement with Microsoft to develop "custom, leading-edge graphics technologies" for the Xbox successor.
[/QUOTE]

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(Monday 22 December 2003 12:37 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

December Xbox SDK is last one ?
>> Microsoft has issued their December Xbox Software Development Kit (SDK), also called Xbox Development Kit (XDK), last week. This will probably be the last full kit released for the Xbox1. I guess they're starting to work on the SDK for the Xbox2 now :)

From malloc on maxconsole.com:
[QUOTE]
This December's XDK will be the last XDK Microsoft makes for xbox. They will only release patches and updates from now on.

Basically all the xbox features are complete. the last few xdk releases were just integrating the xblive features that were missing.

Source: Would like to remain anonymous.
[/QUOTE]

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(Monday 22 December 2003 12:30 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )

Warshaw Awards Celebrate 2003's Gaming Missteps
>> From simoniker on games.slashdot.org:
[QUOTE]
Thanks to Shacknews for their feature revealing The Warshaw Awards for 2003, celebrating "some of the worst missteps of the year" in videogaming. The awards are named after Howard Scott Warshaw, creator of the famously poor E.T. for the Atari 2600, and victors include Namco for R: Racing Evolution, which "eschews virtually everything that Ridge Racer fans had come to expect", David Duchovny for "quite possibly the worst [voice acting] I've ever heard from a mainstream actor" in Ubisoft's XIII, and the IGN gaming website for their "obscene McDonald's advertising campaign."
[/QUOTE]

Some other awards:
* The *groan* Not Again Award goes to Nintendo for releasing a truly cornball press release announcing that Mario would be dropping out of the California gubernatorial recall election, and then with an embarrassing announcement that Mario would be running for president, with a platform of "All fun, no politics.".
* The "Way to go, dumbass" Award goes to 'The Half-Life 2 Hacker'. He released HL2 sources to the public.
* The Head Buried in the Sand Award again to Nintendo for ingoring online gaming and having less online games then the Sega Saturn (NetLink).
* The "Do you think they'll notice?" Award goes to Sony for removing features on the PSX at last minute.
* The Much Too Easily Offended Award goes to Paul Gibson, Australian State Labor MP for trying to ban Project Gotham Racing 2.
* The Cheaters Never Win Award goes to Nvidia. NVIDIA got caught red handed earlier this year when Futuremark published a report pointing out that NVIDIA was using "detection mechanisms" to unfairly increase performance in 3DMark03.

Check out the full article and all awards on shacknews.com.

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(Sunday 21 December 2003 17:41 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by:: )


 

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