Xbox media monster

The original Xbox, despite the sleek Xbox 360's popularity, boasts a unique advantage: a rich history of modifications extending its functionality beyond gaming. Imagine streaming downloaded TV shows directly to your living room screen – this is achievable through Xbox hacking.

Project: Transform your Xbox Cost: $35 Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy (Editor's rating: 2/5)

Fortunately, unlocking your Xbox's potential no longer demands advanced technical skills. Softmod installers simplify the process, making it user-friendly. Once modified, you can install numerous applications, including Xbox Media Center (XBMC).

XBMC provides a 10-foot interface, navigable with a standard Xbox controller. It plays audio and video files (including iTunes libraries) from the Xbox's hard drive or any networked computer, and displays photos, weather, and RSS feeds. XBMC surpasses Microsoft's Media Center Edition OS in media format support and offers customizable aesthetics. Numerous online tutorials exist; one easily accessible option is at productwiki.com.

Project Overview

During my second month at PopSci, we attempted an Xbox hack using a mod chip to access the internal Linux system. Even a soldering-proficient colleague encountered difficulties. My subsequent attempt with a softmod proved significantly easier, thanks to an excellent guide by Erik Kalviainen of Product Wiki. However, I encountered some challenges.

Steps:

1. Acquire an Action Replay memory device ($30) and an original copy of Mech Assault ($3-6). Used game stores are a good source.
2. Download Krayzie’s Ndure Softmod Installer and the latest XBMC version (both free) from torrentspy.com.
3. Use Action Replay to transfer the softmod installer to your Xbox.
4. Insert Mech Assault, select "Run Linux," and follow on-screen instructions to install the alternative operating system. (An Xbox software update might be necessary.)
5. Connect your modified Xbox to your home network and use FlashFXP (free trial) to transfer XBMC and media files (movies, music, photos) to your Xbox.

Navigating the Challenges

The most difficult aspect was locating specific versions of Mech Assault, Splinter Cell, or 007: Agent Under Fire with compatible serial numbers. These games exploit a security vulnerability, but later versions were patched.

My search across four used game stores revealed a frustrating reality: stores often disregarded serial numbers. Attempts to explain my need for a specific version were met with skepticism and refusal, possibly due to legal concerns. Ultimately, purchasing multiple copies of the game proved necessary.

Essential Xbox Update

Unlike some other console hacks, the Krayzie Ndure softmod requires an updated Xbox. My initial failure highlighted this; an Xbox Live-enabled game provided the necessary software update.

Skinning Considerations

XBMC's customizable skins presented another challenge. Many downloaded skins were incompatible with the latest XBMC version. Prioritizing recently updated skins is recommended.

Streaming Media: A Mixed Bag

While file transfer via FlashFXP is possible, it's slow and cumbersome. Network streaming is preferable but requires a compatible program. I used ccXgui LITE (PC only), which enabled XBMC to access specific folders. While streaming worked, file selection within XBMC proved less than ideal, and automatic updates remained elusive.

This article originally appeared in the August 2006 issue of Popular Science magazine.

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