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Week of September 26, 2004
xBomberbox2 v1
>> A new version of the homebrew Xbox game xBomberbox2(info) has been released. This version includes new arenas. From tafididi.com:
[QUOTE]
The update is now available. It will only work if you have beta1 and 2 installed. Tou must overwrite the old version (beta 1 and 2).
Sorry for the delay and thank you for your mails and your support. We hope you will enjoy playing the game...
The gallery has been updated, that should give you an idea of what's new in this version.
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.tafididi.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
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(Saturday 02 October 2004 20:30 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
How To Make The Xbox Next A Winner
>> From ve3d.ign.com:
[QUOTE]
1UP has a decent ol' article up that features 11 industry types chipping in on 8 pre-chosen areas that will supposedly help drive the Xbox Next to victory over the Playstation 3 in the next-generation console wars.
[/QUOTE]
* Lesson One: Strike First, Strike Hard, and Look Good Doing It
* Lesson Two: Design Matters Matter
* Lesson Three: Quality Always Trumps Quantity
* Lesson Four: the Harder They Come...
* Lesson Five: There's No Such Thing as a Free Videogame Console
* Lesson Six: Stay Focused
* Lesson Seven: the Sun Still Rises in the East
* Lesson Eight: Find Your Cool--And Keep It
Go read the whole article on 1up.com
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(Saturday 02 October 2004 17:05 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Xbox Dash Next: Public Beta Bug Bash Release 1.0
>> From JbOnE on xboxdash.net:
[QUOTE]
Xbox Dash Next (previously called tHc Final): Public Beta Bug Bash Release 1.0
Look for not only a custom pc side app for total control over xbox, but many more glorious updates to come. Once again raising the standard in Dashboard experience. While the knockoffs are scrambling to keep up, I give you the new standard for both Xbox usability and scriptability.
As the amount of new material is considerable, the best method for debugging is in the biggest pool - users :) This isn't a wishlist release, please only report bugs on new/existing material - save requests for next release.
Included is full documentation on new scriptable functions and their syntaxes. Not all are implimented yet - this is where the Public Beta Bug Bash 1.0 begins :) All reported bugs will be fixed before release of first real RC release.
Main new Objects of interest:
* HardDrive
ex: DEF theHardDrive HardDrive
* XboxNetwork
ex: DEF theXboxNetwork XboxNetwork
* TitleMenu
ex: DEF theGamesMenu TitleMenu
... see included doc for usage - but in general:
* HardDrive - allows file i/o access on a scriptable level - can script file manager with these functions
* XboxNetwork - handles all network services on a scriptable level - includes ftp server
* TitleMenu - creates menu lists including title names and icons from the xbe's found
First thing someone might wanna do is flip these icons over hehe.
I added in the new menu listing items into the now classic HD menu so you would have a point of reference seeing the new scriptables in action. And yes that green ring is there - I used the color from the old blue dash xbp - they're 100% easily changable by you now - so don't whine about the green - change it :)
Feel free to script up whatever you can think of now :) Direct all bug reports to thread in forum. Enjoy... JbOnE
You are asking, Where can I get this marvelous dash at? The answer is... at our home on IRC. In #xboxdash on EFnet. Come join us there.
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.xboxdash.net (IRC: #xboxdash EFnet)
Official Forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
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(Saturday 02 October 2004 11:58 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Bill Gates About Xbox Next
>> From CNet News.com:
[QUOTE]
BERKELEY, Calif.--Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates on Friday started out a busy day in the Bay Area by talking to college students about a range of topics, from open-source software to malaria to the next Xbox.
Asked about Microsoft's biggest contribution, Gates said it is the creation of the software industry that came with the PC. But he also said the Tablet PC--a pet project of his--is pretty neat, too, as will be the next version of the Xbox.
The next Xbox "may not be good for productivity, but it will be fun," he said. While not offering too many details on the device, he said communications will play a bigger part in the gadget, as will the idea of having an audience in addition to just players. "It's not just one person sitting there shooting at artifacts," Gates said.
[/QUOTE]
Read the whole article on news.com
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(Saturday 02 October 2004 00:02 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
dvd2xbox v0.6.0 W.I.P. news
>> From Dvd2Xbox.xbox-scene.com:
[QUOTE]
I'm sorry for the lack of updates. dvd2xbox(info) development hasn't stopped it's only slowed down due to lack of time. The following is done for dvd2xbox 0.6.0 and more to come:
+ started to rewrite the underlaying file reader/writer classes (udf,dvd,iso9660 done)
+ ISO: fixed a memory leak in the ISO9660 copy module
+ DVD: fixed the long key crack time when copying .vob files
+ DVD: added cache for storing title keys
+ DVD: removed title crack method per default and let libdvdcss decide
+ added the newest samba library from xbmc
+ replaced simplexml by tinyxml
+ added a lot of comments to dvd2xbox.xml
[/QUOTE]
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(Friday 01 October 2004 20:14 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
BlackStormX News *updated*
>> From blackstormx.com:
[QUOTE]
Finally a news update for you all ....
Ok this is not about the feature packed Version 2.0, this is a offical announcement of our new team members..
Fisrt of all i'd like you to welcome 'Yoshihiro' to our team. Most of you will already know him or at least of heard the name associated with Gueux.net and the xbox bios scene and the fact that he made the first debug bios to support the focus chip. This guy is gonna bring bsx to a new level We are happy to have him aboard.
The next two guys 'MPSnyper' and 'Slay' are now full admins on our website, so any problems (lost usernames etc..) can now be reported to them and not just to Ice, thus keeping the site fully updated and packed with new features.
Now last of all a big thankyou to our sponsor MrModchips for his generousity in keeping our teams xbox's up-to-date .
[/QUOTE]
*UPDATE* Yoshihiro will be adding FTP and NoDongle NoRegion DVD support to BlackStormX(info). I have been able to test a beta XBE with these features and it's already working great! You can even watch a DVD (with no dongle) and FTP into your Xbox at the same time.
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(Friday 01 October 2004 17:06 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
SmartJoy FRAG for Xbox
>> From Lik-Sang.com:
[QUOTE]
SmartJoy® FRAG™ is a unique adapter that allows you to connect standard PS/2 compatible mice and keyboards to your PlayStation®2 or Xbox® console. You will be able to enjoy First-Person Shooters (FPS), or any other game where targeting is important, the way they are meant to be played.
Both versions, for PlayStation®2 and Xbox®, are fully programmable and come with pre-installed key configurations for the best games available on PlayStation®2 and Xbox®. Advanced features such as Deadzone adjustments and mouse control inversion guarantee best gaming experience with your favorite titles.
In-Game Videos
Download this video that show the Xbox® version of the adapters in action. It has the a second video overlaid so that you can see how the keyboard and mouse movements correspond to the in-game action.
Download: SmartJoy FRAG In-Game Footage: Halo (MPG, 7MB)
Advanced Features
You will love the advanced features and the available options (such as the programming mode). The SmartJoy® FRAG™ adapters are probably some of the most sophisticated gaming accessories ever built. Gaming can be as simple as loading a built-in preset (for instance hitting F3 loads a perfect preset for The Chronicles of Riddick), or advanced users can customize any keyboard and mouse control or even adjust deadzone, inverse mouse buttons and control sticks and save their own presets in available memory slots. SmartJoy® FRAG™ was built by pro gamers for only one reason: pure game enhancement.
The retail version of the Xbox® and PlayStation®2 units of the SmartJoy® FRAG™ adapters are supposed to hit the shelves before the end of October, perfectly timed for the upcoming big titles. Place your pre-order now for US$ 28.90 per unit.
The tested beta units of the SmartJoy® FRAG™ came pre-programmed with the following game presets. According to the developers, there will be a page where gamers can exchange experiences and game presets very easy. New presets can be entered (and saved!) by simply typing a key sequence from the site. And of course there are instructions coming in the box (multi lingual, English, French, German and Spanish).
Presets for Xbox®
HALO ; Medal of Honor: Frontline ; The Chronicles of Riddick ; Counter Strike ; James Bond 007: Nightfire ; Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six 3 ; Return to Castle Wolfenstein ; Unreal Championship
[/QUOTE]
More Info on: Lik-Sang.com
Pre-Order SmartJoy FRAG for Xbox (28.90 USD): Lik-Sang.com
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(Friday 01 October 2004 10:33 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Team Xodus releases XeniumOS 2.0.1
>> From TeamXodus.com
[QUOTE]
This update is being released to address several minor/moderate bugs, and 2 potentially serius bugs.
It is reccomended that all users upgrade to this version of Xenium OS(info).
A few notes:
This update comes with 2 recovery.bin files. The standard recovery.bin will no longer erase bioses, settings, or eeprom backup. recovery-ResetToFactoryDefaults.bin behaves like previous updates, and will restore the chip to a factory default state.
The 2.0.0 release of XeniumOS would allow the user to use the "Recover from BIN" option in the EEprom tools with a .bin file which was not an EEprom backup, resulting in a corrupted system EEprom. Also, when the system EEprom was corrupted by this action, or any other means, XeniumOS would fail to boot properly. We would like to point out, once again, that improper and uninformed use of the EEprom tools can have destructive results, and users should proceed with caution.
In the case of a corrupted EEprom, XeniumOS will now enter a special boot mode, and will prompt you to press a button when you can read some text on a blue background. This is done so that the video can be properly initialized independant of eeprom settings.
If you have a corrupted EEprom currently, and XeniumOS will not boot, upgrading to this version of XeniumOS should allow you to recover. If this is the case, it is reccomended that you update using the CD upgrade method, and disconnect your harddrive if you had previously used the harddrive upgrade method.
Changelog:
+Added some diagnostics reporting to filesystem drivers, in preperation for performance profiling
+Added monitoring of PIO/UDMA switching, in preperation for performance profiling
+Added "EEpromless video region" screen
*Other minor changes in filesystem drivers, shouldn't make any difference
*Substantial changes to usb subsystem, should be a bit more stable now
*Better integration of usb flash drive and filesystem drivers
*Fixed issue with third party controller compatability
*Finishing/Improving usb keyboard and mouse drivers in preperation for integrating with UI
*Minor internal change to hashing library
*Replaced one of the Xbox hw version detection routines. May still report some boxes as 1.0, when they are not, and vice versa, but this is not confirmed yet
*Some IP stack changes, nothing that should have major impact
*Several improvements to ARP handling
*Several internal kernel additions
-Fixed a very minor bug with drive mounting
-Small change in ftp protocol handling and ftp->filesystem path translation
-Fixed bug that caused "Restore from BIN" to not appear if the system EEprom was invalid
-Fixed some SMB file ID handling bugs (should now properly close files opened over smb)
-Fixed a minor problem with interrupt servicing in usb subsystem
-Fixed a minor dhcp error handling bug
-Fixed a minor problem with handling ICMP pings
-Fixed a double free bug in ip stack
-Fixed a critical bug with EEprom restore-from-bin which could render a box unbootable if used improperly
-Fixed a critical bug which caused Kernel Panic on boot when EEprom was invalid, when attempting to set video mode
Legend:
+ Addition
- Bug fix
* Change
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.teamxodus.com
Download: XeniumOS 2.0.1 HDD Install
Download: XeniumOS 2.0.1 Iso Install
Buy Xenium: Extreme-Mods, BMMods, Divineo.com, Divineo.co.uk, Divineo.cn, XboxChips.com.
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(Thursday 30 September 2004 22:57 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Hostile Territory W.I.P. Update
>> Hostile Territory(info) (new name for 'Project Jihad') is a homebrew arcade/adventure game for Xbox currently in development by 'The unProfessional'. The game is designed to be a free, fun, multiplayer homebrew game for everyone to enjoy. From theunprofessional.com:
[QUOTE]
Unfortunately this week wasn't all that productive. I had a conference I had to prepare for and show up to, in addition to a birthday. On a a solid note, the physics engine is improving dramatically with some recent improvements introduced by the developers. They're doing a fantastic job. Anyway... still close and getting closer :) Stay tuned.
[/QUOTE]
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(Thursday 30 September 2004 20:39 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Top 20 Publishers: Microsoft #2!
>> From biz.yahoo.com:
[QUOTE]
Game Developer magazine's October issue features the 2nd annual report on the Top 20 game publishers.
The publication enhanced the credibility of the annual report by overhauling the criteria used for ranking. Although revenue is still a key factor, this year's survey also measured game review scores, number of titles canceled, producer quality and the catalog of original IP to determine rankings.
For the second year running, Electronic Arts (EA) tops the publisher league. EA performed consistently well across all the Top 20 criteria. The publisher boasts the highest revenue, the external development studios ranked them as best to work with and EA's marketing prowess was considered second only to that of Sony Computer Entertainment.
Other highlights from the report include:
* Four publishers now have more than $1 billion in revenue. Take-Two Interactive is the new addition based on the strength of the Grand Theft Auto franchise. EA, Nintendo and Sony continue to grow;
* Microsoft climbed the most spots from last year, ranking No 2 in this year's survey, thanks to increased sales of the Xbox and a strong reputation with developers. Last year Microsoft was No 9;
* EA continued its push towards titles based on licenses with more than 51% of all its releases falling in this category. Vivendi Universal Games, Activision, THQ and Acclaim also invested heavily in licenses and sequels;
* Top 20 newcomer Empire topped the list of original IP games with 64%. Microsoft followed closely with 56%.
[/QUOTE]
Read the whole article on biz.yahoo.com.
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(Thursday 30 September 2004 15:52 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
ATI to roll out R500 GPU for Xbox 2 early 2005
>> From digitimes.com:
[QUOTE]
ATI Technologies is expected to roll out a new GPU, codenamed R500, for the Xbox 2 in the first quarter of next year, according to market sources.
The R500 will be built using a 90nm process at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and will deliver performance similar to ATI's next-generation high-end graphics chip, the R520, the sources said.
[/QUOTE]
Read the whole article on digitimes.com
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(Thursday 30 September 2004 07:48 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Avaxdisk v2.0
>> A new version of Avaxdisk - an installer CD based on Avalaunch(info) that allows you to easily install several homebrew Xbox software - has been released.
From gtjays on x-disk.com:
[QUOTE]
RELEASE: Based on the original Avax_disk and back by popular demand: WITH A TWIST!
Avaxdisk 2.0 CD installer has the OPTION to install the world famous
XBMC and as the only dashboard! (this option will NOT install Avalaunch on the HDD!)
Many people have requested a CD version of the Avax_1.5_net
This installer will include:
* Avalaunch 0.49.1.62
* XBMC 1.1.0
* Complex tools 1.60
* DVD2XBOX
* DVDX2
* Linksboks 0.92
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.x-disk.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
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(Wednesday 29 September 2004 22:30 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
KernelBase Scene Hack Preview
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(Wednesday 29 September 2004 19:36 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
FlashBIOS v3.0.1
>> A new version of the Xecuter FlashBIOS(info) has been released.
From TeamXecuter.com:
[QUOTE]
We've just updated FlashBIOS. Now supports more 3rd party controllers. Let us know if your controller doesn't work so we can investigate. If any of you are having problems with not being able to select items on the FlashBIOS menu - simply use an original MS controller.
Support added for:
Thrustmaster, Inc. Controller ; Microsoft Xbox Controller ; Microsoft Xbox Controller S ; Logitech Compact Controller for Xbox ; Mad Catz Controller ; InterAct PowerPad Pro ; Mad Catz Control Pad ; Mad Catz LumiCON ; Mad Catz Control Pad Pro ; Mad Catz MicroCON ; Mad Catz Lynx Wireless Controller ; HAMA VibraX ; Radica Games Jtech Controller ; Logic3 Freebird wireless Controller ; Joytech Advanced Controller ; Chinese-made Xbox Controller ; Radica Gamester Controller ; Eclipse wireless Controller
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.teamxecuter.com
Download: coming
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(Wednesday 29 September 2004 10:24 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
X3 Ships To Resellers + Australian Resellers Wanted
>> From TeamXecuter.com:
[QUOTE]
* X3 began shipping to resellers yesterday. We have had reports that the European resellers stock will start to arrive on Thursday/Friday and USA sellers on Monday/Tuesday.
Diagrams / Tutorials / Software will be released sometime tomorrow.
X3 Xapter design is also complete - production starts next week.
X3 Control Panel design is being tweeked to add 2 x USB ports as per requests on the forums.
It's time for Xecuter to really unleash the power of the Xbox (again) - let the modchip itself do the talking...
* We are getting a lot of requests for Australian Xecuter Resellers.
If you are an Australian modchip supplier and wish to carry our products please PM Xecuter and tell us your website, experience, customer support polices and projected monthly sales. Only one reseller will be successful - thanks
[/QUOTE]
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(Wednesday 29 September 2004 09:55 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Xebian HOWTO updated
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(Wednesday 29 September 2004 09:17 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
The Uber XBE Exploit W.I.P. News
>> From devz3ro on forums.xbox-scene.com:
[QUOTE]
Yes, it is true, we don't sleep at night :-). Anyways the creator of the original UDE (PedrosPad) has done it once again!
With the 'über xbe exploit' region changing no longer needs to be performed. I am working along side him to get this released as soon as possible. This exploit, like UDE ([XTF] Ultimate Dashboard Exploit(info)) will work on all region xboxs (including japan). What makes it so "über" and better than the original UDE is the K:5713+ support. Enjoy PAL users, a fellow PAL-er was looking out for you ;-).
BTW: This has not been released to the public yet (for testing purposes), it will be in the near future so just wait.
[/QUOTE]
Discussion Thread: forums.xbox-scene.com.
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(Tuesday 28 September 2004 21:31 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
OR W.I.P. news
>> Dunkelzahn sent us a new info and screenshots of 'OR' - his homebrew Xbox game currently in development. If you missed the first news item about it or for more info click here.
From Dunkelzahn:
[QUOTE]
In the last weeks and coming months I have not a lot of time, but here are the first inside screenshots and that is not all the screenshots show. You can see an enemy and how his perception (sense) work. Also the character can open and close doors.
The enemys react if they see the character and no object (like wall, crate or ...) is between them. The character can't be seen if he stays in darker areas, so he got a lightvalue like in splinter cell. Also the enemys can hear the character, if he move too loud nearby them.
The screenshots show some samples for the sensesystem:
If the enemy is red he see/hear the character. When the enemy is yellow he noticed that someone is in the room and if the enemy is grey he noticed nothing.
  Click picture to enlarge
More pictures: picture3 - picture4.
The other screenshots show the cool particle system I wrote in the last weeks.
 Click picture to enlarge
More pictures: picture2
[/QUOTE]
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(Tuesday 28 September 2004 16:31 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Xbox 2 codename confirmed - Xbox TV and more revealed
>> From spong.com:
[QUOTE]
The Xenon lives, thanks to a job posting on Microsoft’s website, with an advert for a software engineer confirming the development name for the Xbox successor for the first time.
“Want to help create a new feature for Xenon not available on any other platform? Microsoft Game Studios Publishing is looking for an SDET with server experience to…” Cool.
And there’s more dumplings in the stew, with all manner of revelations emerging. Check this – the successful applicant will create, “a spectator mode for many Xenon games, Xbox TV - with tickers at the bottom of the screen featuring recent high scores and game highlights, a tournament system, and tradable trophies.”
Meaning that the Xbox 2, or Xenon, or whatever it will be called when it finally rolls onto shelves, will have a load of cool online features on an uprated Live service.
[/QUOTE]
Read the whole article on spong.com.
You can see the job offering on microsoft.com (update - page is taken down by microsoft)
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(Tuesday 28 September 2004 09:54 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
XLink Kai W.I.P. news
>> Some news about XLink Kai(info) for Linux, new orbs and the RainbowSix 3 Kai vs XBC inter-tunnel event was posted by TheDaddy on teamxlink.co.uk:
[QUOTE]
A bit more info about the Linux stuff - you're probably better asking ^S^ directly, but from what I can gather, things are progressing nicely. The new Kai Advanced Orbital Servers are complete, and are being tested with the kind help of SS and XR8D. These orbs, along with a lovely new client update will be with you as soon as I'm happy it's all working well.
Lastly, the signup for the upcoming Kai vs. XBC clan season is nearly ready - you will be able to signup at the weekend, all things being equal.
[/QUOTE]
There was also some XLink news for other consoles. In short for PS2 they will add Gran Turismo 4 support when it's released (if the game has LAN support) and they will also add support for the upcoming Nintendo DS (that will have a 802.11b network adapter built in).
Official Site: http://www.teamxlink.co.uk
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(Monday 27 September 2004 22:19 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
DoomX v0.14
>> An update by Likklebaer based upon the original DoomX(info) release by lantus.
Whats New:
- Added Map Mode/Automapper function. Press 'BACK' button.
- Mapped the 'Y' keyboard function to the Xbox gamepad's Y button so the game can now be played in Nightmare mode.
- Disabled Xbox flicker filter for a much sharper display.
Official Site: http://www.lantus-x.com/ClassicX/
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
News-Source: xbins.org
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(Monday 27 September 2004 20:34 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
X-Tender Xbox Case Extender Review
>> With some delay, here's the dual-review (by HSDEMONZ and me) of the X-Tender Xbox case extender. More reviews coming soon!
Official Site: http://www.teamxtender.com
Where to buy:
Lik-Sang.com - Divineo.com - Divineo.co.uk - Divineo.cn - ModchipWorld - The-console-corner
Thanks to ModchipWorld and The-console-corner for providing the units for review.
Third in our ongoing series of Xbox Case related reviews. We’re going to try something new with this review, and give you two points of view. Both myself, and Xantium received review samples and we were both excited to give this case extender a try, so you’ll get both of our points of view.
X-Tender Case Extender comes with the following parts:
* Front Panel Extender with IDE switch Pcb
* 2 Side Panel extenders
* 1 Rear Extender
* 1 Long IDE cable with clips for 1 DVD drive and 3 Hard Drives
* 6 Wire Connector for Pc to Xbox motherboard connections
* 6 Long Screws (to place the current Xbox Case screws)
* 6 Extender “distance” Bolts
* 1 HD mounting panel (hold 2 drives)
* Various other screws to secure the HD mounting panel to the xbox, and the hd’s to the panel.
* 1 Manual
Requirements:
* Stock Xbox Case
* Soldering Iron (15-30w will do)
Pictures:
Click here to see all pictures.
Forum Discussion Thread:
http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=279547
The Review (by HSDEMONZ):
Pictures on sales sites don’t really do this case extender justice. People are often confused what they are getting for their money when they see this product. To be clear: this is not a full case. You will need a complete and functioning xbox case to use this product. As the name implies, this product will extend the stock xbox case by about an inch and a half in height. (Keep that in mind when purchasing this product if you intend to keep it in standard entertainment stands)
It’s professionally packaged in a slick box. Inside, you’ll find the parts are foam sleeve packed to protect the panels from scratches. The screws and bolts are equally well packaged. All of the extender panels are also plastic covered, which you can peel off after you’ve completed the mod.
With the parts stretched out on the table, and the manual in hand, this project looks easy enough. After all, it’s just a variation on Project 411 methods for multiple hard drives with an Xbox. The manual falls short of expectations, as it’s filled with low resolution and unclear shots of key areas, including one of the solder areas on the motherboard of the xbox. Not a huge deal, especially for anyone vaguely familiar with the innards of their xbox.
The process…
Open the xbox case, remove the stock case screws (you’ll never need these again) and turn the top upside down. Secure the distance bolts to the top, making sure to not over torque while securing. (do not strip those holes or you’ll end up being very creative trying to fix them). With the top shell upside down, bend some of the shielding as shown in the manual. (it allows for a better fit of the rear panel extender.
Following the manual we secured the IDE switching pcb of the front panel extender to the to the eject point. (You’ll be soldering a single wire to the Power/Eject pcb that comes with the xbox). We also secured two other wires to the motherboard following the manual. (Again, the supplied manuals pictures are not great) Securing the extra hard drives to the mounting panel is as easy as can be expected, just attach them with the supplied screws and that part is ready to go. Then place the mounting plate over the DVD and primary hard drive as shown. Secure with screws.
With the soldering done, and the hard drives mounted, connect the stock power molex connector to the female connector of the front panel extender. Then, connect the 3 male molex connectors to the hd’s installed. (The connectors are numbered but you can connect them in the order you wish) Then fire up your origami paper folding skills and get that IDE connected. It’s not hard, but getting it to look right may take more than one attempt. (Avoid sharp creasing of the ide cable)
Soldering done, hd’s are connected. Now to place those panels, side ones were easy enough. Place a rubber spacer (provided) and then place on the sides of the case. Rear panel sits easy enough on the rear of the case. The front panel was the only one to give me any grief, and as directed by the manual I used some tape to temporarily hold it. Popped that lid on, ensuring all the panels are where they are supposed to be. Flip upside down, and secure the top to the bottom of the case with those 6 long screws supplied. (btw with 2 more hd’s, and all the metal panels and plate your xbox has now gained a lot of weight)
Done.
As case mods go this one was pretty painless. It can be done in a few minutes by a novice, with nothing more needed than a screw driver and a soldering iron. The result, is an xbox case that is now taller and can accommodate 2 extra hard drives without major surgery to the innards of the xbox. (Anyone familiar with Palmore’s work knows 4 hard drives in a stock case are possible, but with major surgery)
3 buttons, one each to select the active hd, with matching LED’s showing activity. It’s simple, clean, and it works.
If there is a negative to this case extender, then it is in the material chosen for the extender panels. Instead of opting for a plastic material, like black ABS plastic to match the stock case, they went with a heavy gauge of steal bent to shape in a metal bender and cut to shape. This works fine, but doesn’t continue the detailed design of the xbox case. People looking for a fine esthetic look will be disappointed by that one fact.
The other issue is the price. You aren’t getting a full case for the price, you are extending an existing one you already own. However, some people would gladly pay that price to get the trouble free hard drive switching pcb and wiring.
Overall, the extender is an interesting product, and fills the needs of a niche market well. If you have a need to have more than one hard drive in a stock case, and to easy switch from one hard drive to the next then this is definitely a product to consider. I’ll definitely continue to use this product, as it is ideal for the modded xbox user. One stock hard drive for live use, and 2 more large hard drives installed for games, emulators, and movies and music. All just one button away.
Pros:
+ Well packaged
+ Easy to install
+ Works as advertised
Cons:
- Price
- Metal panels (as opposed to matching plastic ones to complete the case look and feel)
- Lack of decent quality photos in the manual
The Review (by XanTium):
Well, I also received a sample of this X-Tender case (thx to modchipworld.com) so I'll also let you know my opinion.
A lot has been covered by HSDEMONZ already, so I will not go over the whole installation details and proccess again.
I personally did not have any problems with the installation manual. Even if the images aren't very clear, it should be enough for most of you, and I think the full color printed manual manual that was included was great. Problem though is it doesn't cover all different xbox versions, but a newer version of the guide is available online here.
This case 'extender' is without any doubt the easiest and fastest way to cleanly install 2 extra harddrives and keep your original xbox HD and DVD-ROM intact. Specific to this mod is that your extended console will still look like an Xbox. Other casemods often completely change the look of the console, but with the X-Tender people will still directly recognise it as an Xbox ('non-freaks' probably won't even notice the difference if not put next to each other). See some pictures of the X-Tender Xbox next to a normal Xbox: front, side, back.
One thing that's a bit strange is the choice of material: metal instead of plastic. But as it's painted in black, the difference with the platic of the original xbox case is not that big (certainly not if seen from a distance).
The choice of metal was probably also to improve the solidity ... the X-Tender case is really solid ... it won't fall into pieces and the internal parts won't move either.
Once installed you will be able to easily switch between the 3 harddrives by just pressing one of the 3 buttons on the extended front panel. Once pressed the Xbox will automatically reboot with the chosen harddrive. Because of the reset control required, you will have to solder 3 points to fully install the X-Tender.
All the X-Tender parts are very well packaged in dual coating bags ... no matter how it's shipped to you (within limits of course ;)) it should arrive unscratched.
Pros:
+ Easiest, fastest and clean way to install 3 HD's in your xbox and keep your dvd-rom.
+ Your 'X-Tended Xbox' still looks like an xbox
+ Solid ... your X-Tended Xbox case will not fall into pieces easily.
+ Very well packaged
Cons:
- Price
- Use of metal instead of plastic
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(Monday 27 September 2004 17:13 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Home Cinema Choice November Cover
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(Monday 27 September 2004 10:07 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Xbox Dash Next (tHc Final) FTP support screenshot
>> From discworld on xboxdash.net:
[QUOTE]
Well, its not the most exciting news you'll hear in your life... and it doesn't come anywhere close to being, but hey - news is news.
A new screenshot is on display showing off FTP awareness in the dashboard - be amazed, be very amazed.
Also... in case you hadn't noticed there's a new NEW POLL!.
[/QUOTE]
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(Sunday 26 September 2004 23:05 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
First Public X3 Bios + More New Hardware
>> From TeamXecuter.com
[QUOTE]
We are proud to announce the first public build of the long anticipated X3 Bios. Not only is X3 very powerful - its also a lot of fun to use. Those who like toying with their bios will absolutely love using X3 Config Live.
We won't be making any bold statements like X3 will revolutionize the Xbox scene, but we will say this mod is of the highest build quality, has undergone the most extensive development and beta testing of any Xbox mod to date and of everything we've ever done in the scene is the best work we have ever done. Everyone who has tested the mod tells the same story - that its not only easy to use, fun to play with but also the best Xbox modchip experience they have ever had with every option you would ever need (All X3 Beta testers also tested competitors mods to give a fair assessment of quality difference).
There is so much more we are going to add to the bios in future - as we have always done for you in the past, not to mention the expansive windows based software that is also being developed to make your mod experience even better.
We are also developing many quality hardware addons, all with our famous quality and design procedures direct from our factory in Asia. We have already shown you the "Pro" switch design for X3 which will be shipped shortly. However due to our extensive manufacturing capabilities we have also designed a complete replacemnt front panel for the Xbox dubbed the "X3 Control Panel". Includes a customized LCD screen, all switches, LED's and Infra Red control - all built into a redesigned Xbox front panel which simply unclips from the Xbox. The X3 CP is entirely plug and play - no soldering at all is required. See pictures below for our original 3D drawings - expect it to be on shelves shortly too.
We have worked so hard on the quality of X3 in the last few months - we sincerely hope that you enjoy our efforts. Here is the list of current features. You will be playing with this within the next week - look out for many testers own experiences over the next couple of days - they will be received by many many testers and competition winners over the next couple of days.
2MB Flash Rom With 15 Bios Storage Options
Dedicated 256K Backup Rom with a new Linux based bios (Can be upgraded to any bios you wish)
i2c Bus for X3 Config LIVE!
New Enhanced I/O Bus for Full LCD support (and other future hardware addons)
All LCD modules to be custom made with adapters so no soldering required
2 Modes Flash Protection Control (On Switch and on Mod itself)
Mod Enable - Quick Press reset to boot from 2Mb Flash Rom (External LED will indicate Blue X3 Logo)
Mod Disable - Press reset >1 second (External LED will indicate RED X3 Logo)
Quick Press Power+Eject >1 second to boot from 256k Backup Rom (External LED will indicate PURPLE X3 Logo)
HDD Activity LED
LAN Activity LED
D0 Control (Disable Mod Via Software)
Wire Install Adapter (New design that plugs into pin header)
Pin Header Install (Pin header supplied)
High Quality external switch with changeable facias (different colors and logos)
X3 works perfectly fine without the external switch. We give YOU the option without forcing the choice.
New X3 Bios with X3 Config Live OS - Supports v1.0 - v1.6 (Current version)
Supplied with all adapters & cables
Bank Modes:
256k/256k/256k/256k/256k/256k/256k/256k/
512k/512k/512k/512k/
1024k/1024k
2048k
X3 Config LIVE!
All X3 Config Live! features are displayed on screen
* All works direct from new X3 on any new install - settings stored to the mod not Hard Drive.
* Select which bios bank to boot via software
* Switch to either retail bios mode or FULL debug bios mode
* Option to reset Xbox with X3 disabled
* Display / Edit bios names from each bank
* X3 Auto names bios banks from filename of bios
* Full DHCP & Static IP Support
* Built-in FTP Server with Boost Mode (Over 11,000kb/sec !!)
* Built-in Webserver
* Flash BIOS via HTTP
* Flash BIOS via FTP
* New FTP Based Bios Storage System
* Control all BIOS / Mod functions and settings from HTTP & PC App
* Enhanced BIOS flash speed (Between 22 and 25 seconds - Erase/Flash/Verify)
* Built-in Onscreen Keyboard
* Built in incremental screen shot capability (White + Back - E:X3screenshots dir)
* Boot to X3 Config Live from any dashboard without resetting
* Quick Reboot feature on the gamepad (Black + back)
* Customize all features of the bios on-the-fly
* LBA48 Live Control (Select Standard Xbox Drive, Nghtshds Saved Partitions, F Gets All, F gets 137GB G Gets the rest)
* Supports Nghtshd's New Saved Partition Tools
* IGR Live Control (Enable or Disable)
* Quick Launch Feature (Select Xbe to boot on startup by holding a trigger)
* Customize startup animation colors on-the-fly (New Active Color Picker System)
* 6 Xbox Logo color presets
* Customize startup flubber colors on-the-fly (New Active Color Picker System)
* 7 Flubber Color Presets
* New 3D X3 Logo embedded into startup animation on bootup to sho easy recognition of X3 Booting
* Cool new animated "3" graphic that zooms in onto the X Logo on startup (Colors can be customized)
* Change Camera Angles of the startup animation (select between 15 options or choose random)
* Enable / Disable Wireframe flubber
* Enable / Disable TM Symbol on Xbox Boot Logo
* Change background colors of the startup screen
* Custom startup logo (x3logo.bmp on E drive - 256 colors 180x50)
* Reset Xbox with gamepad (black + back)
* Password your XBOX for extra security
* Change your power LED color on the fly
* Set your Internal Fan Speed on-the-fly
* Enable or Disable Reset on eject hack
* Boot to original MS Dash
* Boot to original MS Bios
* Load Bios from HDD C, D, E, F and Flash (both 2mb Flash Rom & 256k Backup Flash Rom)
* Load Bios from DVD-ROM and Flash (both 2mb Flash Rom & 256k Backup Flash Rom)
* Format & Partition HDD
* Install & Partition Brand new HDD (ready to FTP in less than 5 seconds!)
* Lock / Unlock HDD
* Create a data file (x3data.txt) on E drive with all your Xbox's settings and information. Also includes all your flubber / logo color information for sharing.
* Set / Display Video Mode
* Progressive Scan Control (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i)
* Set widescreen / letterbox
* Set / Display Game Region
* Set / Display DVD Region
* Display HDD Password
* Display All Xbox Live Configuration
* Display All Network Configuration
* Display all Eeprom public and encrypted data
* Display Xbox Version
* Display Video Encoder Version
* Display all temperature readings (v1.0 - v1.5)
* Save XBOX EEPROM to X3
* Save XBOX EEprom to Hard Drive via FTP
* Restore XBOX EEPROM from X3
* Restore XBOX EEprom from Hard Drive via FTP
* Option to Format the X3 Eeprom and revert to defaults)
* Auto Save EEPROM to X3 on first install
* Save Settings to EEPROM
* Set default dashboard
* Setup custom dashboard selection (5 Different Dashboards - You choose)
* Set drive to boot dash from (C E or F)
* Auto Fix of corrupt date / time
* Jump straight to X3 Config Live from any xbe (Use IGR then press white button)
* Many Warning dialogue boxes to make it difficult to do something wrong.
* X3 Software Integration to other dashboards
* Brand new X3 Bios Manager for the PC - MANY new features including full BIOS configuration via built in webserver
LCD Features
* Custom text Display on boot
* Display X3 Config Live Version
* Display Dip switch selection
* Display Soft Bios Selection
* Control brightness level from 0% to 100%
* 100% XBMC Compatible
* New Avalaunch(info) LCD displays
FlashBIOS v3.0.0 Features (Supplied Linux Based Bios)
* Flash Bios via Webserver
* Flash Bios via Hard Drive
* Flash Bios via DVD-ROM
* DHCP & Static IP Support
* Lock/Unlock Hard Drive
* Supports all video encoders (v1.0 - v1.6)
Features currently in development
* Display XBE names on LCD
* Custom Flubber.x and Xboxlogo.x to be stored on the X3 mod itself (not HDD)
* Extensive PC app still in development (Ready Soon)
New X3 Control Panel
[/QUOTE]
More Pics: 1, 2, 3, 4
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(Sunday 26 September 2004 18:40 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
New Limited Editions (Updated)
>> Halo 2 Crystal LE Europe
Halo 2 Crystal LE includes 1 Crystal Xbox Unit, 2 S Controller Pads, HALO 2 of course, and 2 free months of LIVE! Available November 10, 2004 for 199 Euros.
News-Source: xbox-attitude.com
Xbox Platinum Pack 3 Japan
Thankgiving edition, includes 1 basic Xbox, 1 S-Controller, 1 DVD Kit, 2 month subsciption to the Live! Service and four Games: Halo, Blinx 2 : Master Of Time & Space, Top Spin, Project Gotham Racing 2. Priced at 19000 yen
News-Source: xbox-attitude.com
Thanks to ChilunDude for the news.
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(Sunday 26 September 2004 17:23 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Slashdot: Xbox Modchip Featuring Onboard Operating System
>> From SlashDot.com:
[QUOTE]
Posted by timothy on Sunday September 26, @04:30PM
An anonymous reader writes "A group of talented coders known as TeamXodus, have released an xbox modification chip with a difference, the 'Xenium' is a modchip which features a fully legal operating system that was coded by the team from scratch. The mod can be installed Solderlessly and will allow the end user to unlock the power of the xbox and run applications such as Linux
on their Xbox. The onboard Operating system currently stands at version 2.0 and features a massive 1.35 million lines of code and was recently reviewed by HomeCinemaChoice whereby they declared the Xenium 'The creators of the easiest Xbox modification - the complete package.'"
[/QUOTE]
Thanks to Fujitech for the news
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(Sunday 26 September 2004 17:07 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
XBGM# 0.5
>> KaYa released a new version of XBGM#(info) - an Xbox Game Manager with Avalaunch(info) features, xISO and ftp support. What's new/fixed:
* More UI tweak.
* Bug fixed.
* Code clean.
Official Site: http://xbgm.sourceforge.net
Download: here
For feedback and to follow the ongoing discussion click: XS Forums.
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(Sunday 26 September 2004 15:07 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
)
Virtual PC 7 will make Xbox2 backwards compatible?
>> From gamespot.com:
[QUOTE]
RUMOR #5: The Xbox 2 will use Virtual PC 7 for backwards compatibility for original Xbox games.
Source: Self-explanatory site Geek.com.
The official story: Microsoft reps said they would "track down" the source of the rumor, but had not as of press time.
What we heard: According to Geek.com's Apple Insider subsection, the reason for the delay of the latest version of Virtual PC 7 is that "Microsoft has given this project exclusively to the Xbox team." Why would they do such a thing? "Because the next Xbox will include an IBM PowerPC 970, and current Xbox game developers are shipped G5 PowerMacs," says Geek.com. While not confirmed by Microsoft, it sounds like a much more plausible scenario than last week's Xbox 2-backwards-compatiblity rumor, which had a Silicon Valley startup providing universal emulator middleware for the next-gen console.
Bogus or not bogus?: Probably not bogus.
[/QUOTE]
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(Sunday 26 September 2004 14:16 EST) - (Category: (default)) - (Posted by::
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