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NEXiLUX Game Genie Turbo 360 Pre-Installed Controller
Manufacturer: NEXiLUX
Site: Buy from TotalConsole
Price: $49.99


Overview : With Game Genie Mod, your controller gives you extra powers. Your triggers are individually configurable with settings from one (1) to ten (10) clicks/second. Whether on a FPS, Fighting game, Sports game, Game Genie mod is your best ally against the adversary.

Features:

• Customizable triggers actions: from 1 to 10 Clicks/Second.
• Both triggers can be customizable with a different action.
• Power UP against your opponents in and FPS, Sport or Fight games.

Quality/Usability : Usually, when you purchase a product like this that adds turbo/rapid fire, its either an add-on or an aftermarket controller. Instead of releasing an add-on peripheral or an aftermarket controller, NEXiLUX decided to stick with what is better...the Official Microsoft Xbox 360 controller. Since the Game Genie Turbo 360 is pre-installed, there is nothing you need to do. All the hard work such as drilling and soldering is done for you. All you have to do is open the package, sync controller to Xbox 360 console and wreak havoc! Video's of the installation process can be found on our YouTube page which consists of three parts to the install - here [1/3], here [2/3] and here [3/3].

Since NEXiLUX used an Official Xbox 360 controller, you'll know you'll have a durable and reliable product. However, in order to have modify the controller, NEXiLUX had to open the controller, drill holes and solder wires. Just like opening any electronic, this voids the manufacture warranty on the controller. So if something should happen to the controller, you'll have to go and buy a new one. Nothing is included except for black and white photocopy instructions, controller wrapped in a bubble wrap bag, battery cover and white box with NEXiLUX Game Genie Turbo 360 sticker.

The controller is the same as if you were to buy it from a store minus the packaging. The only difference is 3 buttons added to the back of the controller. They are placed underneath the controller for your middle fingers (two black - rapid/auto fire buttons), while the third button (red - configuration) is located for use with your ring finger or pinky. The two black buttons are on each side and act as the RT and LT but with rapid/auto fire functions. The red configuration button on under the black button on the RT side. To configure the RT trigger auto fire on the controller, press and hold down the configuration button and press the left or right auto trigger the number of times you want to auto fire. So if you press it 6 times, it will auto fire 6 times. Press it 10 times, it will auto fire 10 times. You set it from 1-10 shots/second. Release the configuration button. Now, each time you press the auto fire trigger, it will auto fire. *NOTE: Be sure to set this at a speed that will not get you banned. Doing it too quick can get you banned if you play online. Your original RT and LT trigger buttons will continue to work as normal. So each time you press it, it will fire once. Hold it down and it will fire once.

The video below will show you what is included and how to set it up.


The buttons themselves are sturdy and do not wobble. However, they are stiff when you press them so you will hear a clicking sound when pressed. Since the buttons are thin, it may feel a little uncomfortable when pressed. The location of the buttons were perfect as that is where my fingers would have been, so accessing the turbo buttons was readily available when needed. I have been told that Chatpad works with the controller. I don't own one so I am unable to confirm.

Below are videos of the NEXiLUX Game Genie Turbo 360 Pre-Installed Controller in action:

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Gears of War 2

Street Fighter

Conclusion : Overall, the NEXiLUX Game Genie Turbo 360 Pre-Installed Controller is a great auto fire without the extra frills or add-ons. All NEXiLUX did was take an Official Xbox 360 controller and modded it. You get the same durability and reliability with the added feature. The buttons were a bit thin and stiff. Would have been nice if the buttons were wider, less stiff and maybe closer to the shell of the controller rather than protruding. However, the parts that I suggested probably arent even available or would be compatible or I'm just being too picky (LOL) - [wider buttons are being tested]. Due note that like the XCM XFPS' that allows you to use a keyboard/mouse, some gamers consider this as a cheating device as this gives you an advantage over them. There is no way to detect what peripherals are being used but its how you play that may get you the boot. Use this at you own risk if using this on Xbox Live and playing against other gamers online.

What thing I did notice is that my RB button doesnt really click when you press the button near the edge but it still registers and works. It only clicks when ...

XCM XFPS 4.0 Speed
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Divineo France / Buy from ConsoleSource / Buy from GoldenShop / Buy from Amazon
Price: $90.00


Overview : Use a keyboard and mouse on your Xbox 360 with the XFPS Force adapter. Compatible with all keyboards and mice, it is precise and efficient and will clearly give you the edge on many games, starting with FPS.

It is easy to map all the Xbox 360 wired controller keys/inputs to keyboard and mouse using your PC and XCM software. When used in conjunction with the soon to be released Magic Link the XPFS will allow a remote player can to co-play with you via internet connection. A PC is required to use the XFPS Speed.

Features:

• Connect PS/2 or USB mouse & keyboard to your Xbox360™
• Compatible with all mice and keyboards.
• Accuracy in aiming and fast response while playing shooting game.
• Easy to map all 360 wired controller keys to keyboard and mouse via PC by XCM software.
• When using with our new coming product (Magic link), the remote player can help you to pass the game level via the internet from his PC.
• 3 level of auto fire function.
• Must connect to PC (laptop or desktop).

Quality/Usability : Unlike XCM's previous XFPS like the XFPS Sniper Plus, the new XFPS 4.0 Speed requires a laptop or desktop if you are using a mouse and keyboard.

To connect a wired 360 controller and enable turbo/rapid fire, plug the XFPS 4.0 Speed to one of the USB ports on the console and have the PC-Controller switch on Controller. The XFPS logo will blink green. Plug in your wired 360 controller and the XFPS logo will stop blinking and will stay lit. You can now use the turbo/rapid function.

Rapid Fire/Turbo switch has 3 settings, Normal (N) which is OFF, Medium (M) Speed Firing which gives 15 shots per second and High (H) Speed Firing which gives 30 shots per second.

To connect a keyboard and mouse, the first half is the same as above for enabling turbo/rapid function. A wired controller MUST be connected first before the XFPS 4.0 Speed is recognized. Plug the XFPS 4.0 Speed to one of the USB ports on the console and have the PC-Controller switch on Controller. The XFPS logo will blink green. Plug in your wired 360 controller and the XFPS logo will stop blinking and stay lit. Now unplug your wired controller and the XFPS will go from green to a blinking red. On the PC-Controller switch, switch it to PC and plug the included USB cable into the bottom of the XCM and the other end to either you desktop or laptop USB port. Once connected, the XFPS logo will stop blinking red and will stay lit.

In order to use a keyboard and mouse as well as map/configure your settings, you'll need to download XCM's software. The latest software can be found here (whenever there is a new upgrade, you can find it here). Review was tested with version 1.50.

Once you downloaded the software, extract the file and you should see a XFPS folder or XFPS icon on desktop or within folder. Before running the software, make sure the XFPS is connected to the computer. If not, the software will give an error message stating that it "Can not find XFPS". Double click the XFPS icon and the program will display a picture of a Xbox 360 controller. To configure your keyboard and mouse, click on "TOOL" and "SETTINGS". Enter a name for the setting, than click "NEW" and than "MAP". From here, you can map whatever keys/buttons you want to correspond to the Xbox 360 controller. Move the cursor to the box you want to remap and press the key you want to use. If you made a mistake, highlight the area, right click and click DELETE. Once you're done, click on "CONFIRM" in the MAP screen and click "CONFIRM" again in the SETTINGS screen. When you see the Xbox 360 controller, you can click "FILE" and "START" or F12 to begin. Once you start, the mouse and keyboard now takes over the Xbox 360. Even though the mouse and keyboard is connected to laptop or desktop, nothing will happen. To escape out of Xbox 360 control, press F11 and you can now control computer with mouse and keyboard. This is perfect for when you want to go back to the settings and make any adjustments. Not only can you map your buttons but you can adjust the X and Y axis sensitivity as well as invert the X and Y axis.


In my testing, I've used onboard keyboard from a laptop and a cheap Dell wired USB mouse (for v1.41-1.44 software) that came with my computer and Microsoft IntelliMouse (for v1.50 software). I've also used a wireless Logitech keyboard and mouse combo and all have worked fine. My wireless mouse had a higher sensitivity so I had to lower the sensitivity on the XCM XFPS application. I did not notice any lag or any jumps in movement. I know some people have complained about dead zones and zig zag movements when moving the mouse up and down but I did not experience any of the problems. I was able to move the mouse ever so slightly and the cursor moved. I did however have to adjust the sensitivity to over 3.8-4.5 for both X and Y axis. ...

3600mAh Rechargeable Battery Pack
Manufacturer: N/A
Site: Buy from BudgetGadgets
Price: $7.48 (use coupon code TM5OFF8 and get 5% off site wide)


Overview : Why spend more money on regular alkaline batteries that harm the environment when you can get a rechargeable battery pack for a fraction of the cost?

Features:

• Compatible with Xbox 360 wireless controller
• Extend your playing time
• Use USB port to charge using USB charging cable
• LED light indicator will light up when charging
• Rechargeable Cable: USB to DC 2.35* 0.7 DC cable with direct plug
• Battery Pack: output voltage = DC 2.4v
• Capacity: 3600mAh

Quality/Usability : Having used regular alkaline AA batteries for a while and going through them like no tomorrow, it was time to invest in a rechargeable battery pack for the Xbox 360 wireless controller. Not to mention to help the environment. This 3600mAh Rechargeable Battery Pack was from BudgetGadgets and came with no packaging. You may or may not receive packaging with any item you purchase from them. Even if you wanted packaging, you would have to pay an additional cost. I'll get into this more in the Conclusion at the bottom.

The battery pack will not match the color of your white Xbox 360 controller. The battery back has a little off-white or a bit of beige color to it. Fitment of the battery pack on the controller is a perfect fit.

The 3600mAh Battery Pack comes only with a USB cable. No instructions or anything. You can plug the USB cable into the USB port of your computer, monitor or Xbox 360 to charge the battery pack. When plugged in, a green LED on the battery pack will light up to show that its charging. I charged this for 5 hours and the green light was on. I decided to let it charge to see if it will turn off. Another 5 hours and the light was still on. I didnt want to charge any further and possibly damaging the battery so I decided to stop charging. I charged two ways...first being the battery pack connected to the controller and once the inital charge depleted, I disconnected the battery from the controller. I wanted to see if the battery would charge. The LED light lit up and after 5 hours, light was still on. I waited another 2 hours this time instead of 5 and light was still on, so I unplugged it and put the battery pack back onto the controller.

I was able to get a good 4 days of moderate to heavy play. In total, I would say I got about 10 hours of gameplay total before the battery needed to be recharged.

Conclusion : Overall, the 3600mAh Rechargeable Battery Pack for the Xbox 360 works as it should but the lack of notification that the battery is fully charged is a big downfall. I dont know if it takes 3 hours, 5 hours or 15 hours to fully charge. The color of the battery pack isnt a big deal but its worth mentioning for those potential buyers and it wouldnt be a surprise.

Now, back to BudgetGadgets packaging issue. Under their FAQ, this is what is stated about packaging:


For those items that gives you the 'Package' option, I dont know if its worth it or not to pay extra when it should be included. Than again, its going to get thrown away when you receive it and bust open the package but I would like the satisfaction that it was from a sealed package and I'm the one that opened it. I can see how BudgetGadgets is offering free shipping by cutting back on including packaging. However, other online stores include the packaging and also offer free shipping.

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Nyko Power Kit 360
Manufacturer: Nyko
Site: Buy from Nyko
Price: $16.99

Overview : Play and recharge the Xbox 360 wireless controller's battery pack simultaneously. The Power Kit includes a high quality NiMH rechargeable and an extra long USB charging cable. The battery provides up to 25 hours of play per charge while the extra long cable allows simultaneous play and charging up to 11 feet from the console. The extended cord makes it easy to kick back at a comfortable distance from the TV without accidentally disconnecting the controller. Never worry about running out of battery power for your controller during play again.

Features :

• High quality NiMH rechargeable battery for excellent performance and long life
• Longer charge and play cable for convenient battery recharge from the consoles USB ports
• Compatible with Microsoft's wireless controller for Xbox 360
• CE approved for safety and quality assurance
• Eliminates the need for expensive batteries
• Up to 25 hours of play per charge
• Battery gauge accessible through the Xbox Dashboard

Quality/Usability : The Power Kit 360 includes two items, a NiMH rechargeable battery pack and a USB charging cable which one end plugs into the Xbox 360 and the other end plugs into the top of the controller where a memory card would usually go which charges the battery. By plugging this cable to the wireless controller, it now makes the controller wired. The wire is approximately 11 feet long.

What's nice is that if you're battery is near empty, you can plug the cable into the controller to charge the battery while you're playing so you dont have to put it down. Once its fully charged, you can unplug the cord and play wirelessly.

On the battery there is an LED. Red is for when the battery is about dead. Yellow is when its half charged and Green when its fully charged. During our tests, the battery life fell a little short of holding the supposed 25 hours of game play. Although this may not be accurate as we didnt officially time it, it probably only allowed about 20-22 hours of gaming.

Dont get this confused with Microsoft's own product, Play & Charge Kit. Although both have the same purpose, there is a difference...price and cord. Microsoft's Play & Charge Kit retails for $19.99 while Nyko's Power Kit retails for $16.99 and has a longer cord.

Conclusion : Overall, the Nyko Power Kit 360 is a nice alternative. Although the price is affordable at $16.99 and the cord is longer but for an additional $13.00, you can get the Nyko Charge Station 360 which has a charging base and two NiMH batteries. But you wont be able to charge and play at the same time.

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Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $79.00


Overview : If you are looking to go wireless on your Xbox, then definitely check out the Xbox Wireless N Adapter. With increased speed, range and wireless security features*, the Xbox 360® Wireless ‘N’ Networking Adapter offers the fastest and most convenient connection to Xbox LIVE. You can seamlessly download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, and games from Xbox LIVE Marketplace in full 1080p and 5.1 surround sound from anywhere in the house.** Compatible with A/B/G/N networks, the compact design clips easily onto the back of your console, a very nice feature to keep things clean and uncluttered around your console, or offers the flexibility of off-board placement.

*Compared to Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter, supports WPA2 security protocol
**Range up to 2x that of A/B/G networks

Designed for versatility and ease, the Xbox 360® Wireless Networking Adapter ‘N’ enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, seamlessly synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system with the newest Wireless N standard. Wireless N offers increased speed, coverage and reliability and can easily stream media-intensive applications such as ‘Games on Demand’, HD movies, videos and music to your Xbox 360 system from Xbox LIVE® or your Media Center PC.

Features :

• 7x faster than ‘G’ adapters*
• 2x the range of ‘G’ adapters*
• Compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n networks
• Dual band performance
  
  • 5GHz: 1x2 (802.11a & 802.11n)
  • 2.4GHz: 2x2
  • 2(Tx)x 2(Rx)
• Supports WPA2 security protocol
• 2 external antennas and off-board placement capability with USB extension cable (sold separately)
• Powered by Xbox 360

*Performance may vary due to application and environment.

Benefits :
The Xbox 360® Wireless N Networking Adapter is ideal for:

• Streaming media such as movies (downloading HD movies), videos and music from the Xbox LIVE Marketplace
• Simultaneous downloads, voice and music
• Avoiding interference
• Multiplayer gaming
• Larger homes and multiple rooms with increased speed, coverage and reliability
• Congested wireless environments
  
  • Dense housing, multiple wireless networks - The Xbox 360 N Wireless Network Adapter works with existing 802.11g and 802.11b wireless routers and access points (backwards-compatible)
• Multiple HD videos and lag-free network gaming

What is Wireless N?
If you are curious as to what exactly Wireless N Technology is, it is the latest generation in increasingly powerful wireless bandwidth. Incorporating new MIMO (Multiple In, Multiple Out) technology, Wireless N is designed for today’s most powerful bandwidth demands, be it streaming HD movies, hard-core gaming, or multiple networked home computers. Wireless N is also fully compatible with existing 802.11g and 802.11b wireless routers and access points, so you don’t have to reinvent the wireless wheel to upgrade.

Quality/Usability : Not everyone has their Xbox 360 and router/modem in the same room. Even if we do, who likes to run an ethernet cable? Wires get tangled and makes the room look cluttered. Microsoft released the first network adapter back in November 2005 which worked on 802.11a/b/g networks, was encased in gray case with a single black antenna. Forward to 4 years later (November 2009), Microsoft released a new network adapter that not only works on 802.11a/b/g but also 802.11n. This new network adapter has a matte black finish and two gray antennas. The matte black finish is a perfect match to the Xbox 360 Elite. A short USB cord is just long enough to reacht the rear USB port of the Xbox 360 next to the Ethernet port. If you're using the USB port for something else such as the HD-DVD player add-on, the adapter also has a pair of "feet" that swing out from one side that allow the adapter to sit on a flat surface or on top of the Xbox 360.

A quick comparison between 802.11g networking to 802.11n is that N has a longer range, speeds are faster and there are less interference with 2.4GHz frequencies since that is what 802.11g uses while 802.11n sits on 5GHz.

With the wireless adapter plugged in, you should be good to go unless you have been living under a rock and never updated your Xbox 360 over Xbox Live. But don't worry, the Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter also includes an installation disc automatically installs necessary software and drivers, to your Xbox 360 (not the latest update as found on Xbox Live but in order for network adapter to work). You can find the "Wireless" setting under the "Networking" option in the "System Settings" tab. Even if you don't have wireless in your house, you can use your neighbors wireless network (hopefully you have a friendly neighbor and you're not leeching). Setting up is fairly easy by selecting the network and entering any necessary passwords, whether its WEP, WPA or WPA2. Do note that the Xbox 360 will only allow connections via wired or wireless. You can not have both ...

XCM Cross Fire Converter
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from ConsoleSource / Buy from GoldenShop / Buy from Amazon.com
Price: $79.99


Overview : The XCM Cross Fire adapter lets you connect your PS3 controller to your Xbox 360 console. With built in rapid fire / turbo and tilt functions this adapter is the ultimate in Xbox 360 accessories. This adapter is also compatible with the Xbox 360 and Original Xbox wired controllers for added Rapid Fire / Turbo functionality.

Features:

• Use your Playstation 3 controller on your Xbox 360 console.
• Enables Rapid Fire / Turbo on Wired Xbox 360 and Original Xbox controllers when connected to your Xbox 360 console.
• Supports 2 stick analog tilt functionality of the PS3 controller on the Xbox 360.
• User controller Rapid Fire / Turbo firing rates (High Speed (30 Shots per second) , Medium Speed (10 shots per second) and Off )
  * Must be used in conjunction with a Wired Xbox 360 controller.

Quality/Usability : The one adapter that we did not review is probably the most popular product as well. How can we miss such a product? Well here is the review all have been waiting for (if you've been holding out and haven't picked it up yet).

The XCM Cross Fire Converter allows you to connect a PS3 controller to your Xbox 360. If you're looking to connect a Xbox 360 controller to your PS3, you're reading the wrong review. You'll need the XCM Cross Battle Adapter. Now back to the PS3 controller on Xbox 360. Not only does the XCM Cross Fire Converter let you use PS3 controller on Xbox 360, you can also connect Xbox1, or Xbox360 wired controller. It also comes complete with turbo fire functions for all buttons and tilt option for SixAxis tilt functionality. In order to activate the XCM Cross Fire Converter, you need to have wired controller. Without this, you can't use the adapter. People also ask why you need a wired controller and a Charge Kit does not work. The reason for this is because the converter XCM borrows the "signature" from the controller of themselves. A wired controller and wireless controller both have different "signatures" and the only one that would work is from a wired controller. Unfortunately, the wired Xbox 360 controller becomes unusable as a second, third and fourth player on your console as long as the XCM Converter is plugged in with a controller connected to it. Since the Converter borrowed the controllers signature, the wired controller becomes unusable. However, this is only temporary.

To set up the Cross Fire Converter:

1. Turn on Xbox 360.
2. Plug in XCM Cross Fire Converter into Xbox 360 USB port and the XCM logo will blink.
3. Plug Xbox 360 controller into XCM Cross Fire Converter and the XCM logo will stop blinking.
4. Once the LED is steady, you can either leave the Xbox 360 controller in and take advantage of the rapid fire feature or unplug the 360 controller and plug in either you PS3 controller using USB cable or Original Xbox controller into the Cross Fire Converter.

Depending on the controller you have plugged in, the LED will change colors. Green for Xbox 360 controller, Red for original Xbox controller and Blue for PS3 controller. Unfortunately, if you're using a PS3 controller or original Xbox controller and you want to chat against people, you'll need a wireless Xbox 360 headset.

PlayStation3 Controller:
As stated above, when you plug in the PS3 controller using a USB cable, the XCM logo turns blue. On the Cross Fire Converter, there is a switch to turn on SixAxis tilt functionality. The switch has three settings: L, R and N. The L setting will allow the SixAxis to mimic the left analog stick. R for mimicing the right analog stick and N for no tilt functionality. There were no lag or delay in button presses and the rapid fire worked flawlessly. The tilt functionality worked as it should however I wouldnt use it. It only mimics one analog stick and you would have to press the other analog.

Original Xbox Controller:
I personally see no point in plugging an Original Xbox controller.


Conclusion : Overall, the XCM Cross Fire Converter worked great! However, there were some key features missing such as being able to remap buttons. I personally would of removed the tilt functionality all together and given the ability to remap buttons to my likings. Like all XCM controller adapters, a wired controller is needed in order to activate the adapter. Any Xbox 360 wired controller will work whether its Official Microsoft Xbox 360 controller or a 3rd party controller such as GameStop, Nyko, MadCatz, etc. I wouldnt spend full retail so if you can get a controller second hand whether it be from a game store, game trading sites or eBay, go for it.

If you have both a PS3 console and Xbox 360 console, you'll have to buy an adapter for each console...XCM Cross Fire Converter for Xbox 360 and XCM Cross Battle Adapter for PlayStation 3.

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Nyko Charge Station 360
Manufacturer: Nyko
Site: Buy from Nyko
Price: $29.99

Overview : Always have an ample supply of battery power when you need it most. The Charge Station 360 gives gamers the power to always keep two Xbox 360 wireless controller battery packs charging at all times. The Charge Station includes the dual port charging base and two rechargeable battery packs. Easily plug the Charge Station into the wall to keep battery packs charged. It takes just 4 hours to fully charge 2 battery packs. LED charge indicator lights designate when each battery is fully charged. The high quality NiMH batteries are designed to work with Microsoft wireless controllers and each provide an average of 25 hours of additional play time. They can be recharged repeatedly eliminating the need for costly AA batteries.

Features :

• Dual port rapid battery pack recharge station
• Fully charges two battery packs in about four hours
• Includes two high quality NiMH rechargeable battery packs
• CE approved for safety and quality
• Each battery pack provides up to 25 hours of play
• Dual color charge status indicators
• Plugs directly to home power socket, no USB port or long wires required

Quality/Usability : Not having to tied to the Xbox 360 by using the wireless controller is a great product. You can roam around freely without even tripping over wires or tripping other people. But the battery is taking a toll. Nyko has released the Charge Station 360. The kit includes two NiMH battery packs and a plug-in-the-wall base station. Unlike the Microsoft Play & Charge Kit and Nyko Power Kit, both require the Xbox 360 to be on in order to charge the batteries. With the Charge Station 360, it can charge two dead battery packs within 4 hours. Charging one battery takes only 2 hours. On the plug-in-the-wall base station, there are LEDs that alert you when the charging is in progress or when it is complete.

During our testings, charging was on par to that of what Nyko claims (2 hours for one battery and 4 hours for both batteries at the same time). During gameplay, although we havent officially timed how long it lasted but Nyko claims to hold charge for 25 hours. Now, keep in mind, this is probably from non-stop playing. For us, the controller can last us a good 2-3 weeks if not more (1-2 hours of game play each week).

The battery packs color is identical to that of the controllers color. So it will blend right in with the controller.

Conclusion : Overall, the Nyko Charge Station 360 is a must own for anyone who uses the wireless controller and plays frequently. Not only will you get more play time, but you also wont have to worry about your battery dying on you. For a price tag of $29.99, you cant pass this up.

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Nyko Intelligent Remote 360
Manufacturer: Nyko
Site: Buy from Nyko
Price: $19.99

Overview : Control your Xbox 360 and TV with 1 remote. Never be burdened with programming remotes again. The Intelligent Remote 360 is a self programming remote for the Xbox 360 that learns the functions for other remotes without the hassle of universal codes or software. Simply select the function on the remote that you would like the Intelligent Remote to learn, point the remotes toward each other, and with the press of a button the data is transferred instantly. This allows for convenient access to the 360’s functions while using other common devices like the TV, Stereo, etc, all from the same remote. The Intelligent Remote eliminates the need for switching between remotes and takes the hassle out of the setup.

Features :

• Control your Xbox 360 and other devices like the TV, stereo, etc, with one remote
• Built-in "Smart" function learns from existing remotes, no codes or software required
• Back-lit buttons are clearly marked and simple to use
• The remote turns on and off automatically to maximize battery life
• Runs on 2 AAA batteries (included)

Quality/Usability : Nyko's Intelligent Remote 360 covers majority of the basic features of media playback. What is nice about the remote is that you can have it "learn" commands from other infrared remotes allowing the remote to control your Xbox 360 and TV.

Although Nyko's Intelligent Remote is similar to Microsoft's Universal Media Remote, there are some slight differences. IR is wider (measures approximately 1 inch deep, 8.25 inches long and 2 inches wide), two buttons have been added under the mute control (AV and SET) and the START button replaces the Media Center button that would have been on the Universal Media Remote. The backlight lights up green when a button is pressed but is not as bright. The remote also weighs approximately 5 ounces with two AAA batteries installed (batteries included with Intelligent Remote).

What makes the Intelligent Remote unique and different is the "smart" feature. This allows you to map functions from other remotes onto 22 buttons. In order for the remote to learn these functions, you have to face the Intelligent Remotes infrared sensor and the other remotes infrared sensor at each other. Although this is a great feature its not always 100% accurate. Its a hit or miss and only way to find out if the Intelligent Remote has "learned" the function is by trying it out. So it can get annoying.

What can also get annoying sometimes is that the START button can be misleading. Pressing the button brings the Xbox 360 into the dashboard directly rather than pausing like it would on a controller.

Conclusion : Overall, the Nyko Intelligent Remote 360 is a great alternative to Microsoft's Universal Remote. With a cheap price tag of $19.99, its affordable. Although, certain buttons and functions can get annoying. The two AAA batteries last a good before you have to replace them.

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Talismoon PSU Energyser
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site: Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
Price: $20.99


Overview : Replace your original power supply with a standard ATX Computer power supply of your choice. Now you can have an inexpensive replacement, or, opt for more power, less noise, or both! The PSU Energyzer requires no assembly or wiring - just plug it in, turn on your PC power supply, and turn on your Xbox 360.

The PSU Energyzer is a special cable with an OEM Xbox 360 power plug on one end, and a 20 pin ATX connector on the other.

Please note that the original Xbox 360 Power Supply provides 203 watts, and 12v DC current at 16.5 amps, and 5v DC at 1 Amp. For the PSU energyzer to work, your PC power supply must provide this much SUSTAINED power at a minimum. Many PC power supplies are rated for PEAK power instead of sustained power, so you must check the label of your power supply to see if it provides enough sustained power.

Quality/Usability : Talismoon PSU Energyser is an alternative to the brick sized power supply for the Xbox 360. The Energyser is a cable that connects directly to your PC. Once its connected to your PC and turned on, it draws its power from the PC to power your Xbox 360.

This eliminates having to use the power supply that came with the console and frees up a wall outlet for other devices. There was no slow down, lags or any problems running the Xbox 360 through the cable. The console acted normal and ran fine just as if it was plugged powered through the original AC adapter. But you have to make sure that the power supply on your PC is able to handle the power to be able to run your console.

Of course, this only works if your Xbox 360 and PC are near each other as the cable isnt that long. But long enough.

Conclusion : Overall, the Talismoon PSU Energyser cable is a great spare power supply or replacement to have. Only drawbacks would be is if your PC is either far away or in a different room from the Xbox 360 and if in order to play with the Xbox 360, you have to have computer turned on. I know some like to turn off their computers and some leave it on for days/weeks. But it does free up a wall outlet.

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