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by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:46- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
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 hooked up at the same time. ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:46- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
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:
- Turn on Xbox 360.
- Plug in XCM Cross Fire Converter into Xbox 360 USB port and the XCM logo will blink.
- Plug Xbox 360 controller into XCM Cross Fire Converter and the XCM logo will stop blinking.
- 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.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:45- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
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.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:45- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
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.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:45- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
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.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:45- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
XCM XFPS 360 PRO
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
Price: $85.00
PRO
Overview : Let’s be honest, first person shooters just weren’t pioneered to be played on a bog standard Xbox 360 controller. Ask any First-Person-Shooter (FPS) fan out there what method of control they find optimal, and you will find the resounding majority shout out mouse and keyboard! The days of getting your fingers in a twist while trying to grapple with those un-friendly analog sticks are over. The XFPS 360 is here to present Xbox 360 gamers with the ultimate way to play FPS titles – with a Mouse & Keyboard! That’s right one technologically advanced converting device which intelligently re-maps controls onto either a standard PS/2 or USB keyboard and mouse. Its pure plug and play heaven from the word ‘go’, the transition from PC FPS guru to Xbox 360 FPS champ is virtually seamless. The XFPS 360 is suitable for gamers of any skill level, ‘newbie’s’ can at last score their first frag and ‘pro’s’ can fire out those virtual bullets in a style Rambo himself would admire.
The PRO version comes with 2 extra wheels with 16 levels of adjustment for X and Y sensitivity to adapt perfectly to every mice on the market.
Features :
- Compatible with most PS/2 or USB keyboard and mouse combinations, those expensive FPS set-ups have not gone to waste!
- Instant plug and play technology
- Ideal for use with all FPS titles such as Call of Duty and Halo series
- Highly durable modern ‘black’ coloured shell
- Brings all new auto fire functionality to the Xbox 360
- Allows gamers to use PS2’s Dual-Shock 2™ controller on the Xbox 360 ™
- Enjoy enhanced performance on titles such as Pro Evolution Soccer 6, which originally debuted on the Playstation™.
XFPS 360 is also compatible with:
- PS 2 Light Gun
- PS 2 Racing Wheel - The XBOX 360 steering controller is very expensive, but you can use the PS 2 steering wheel for it now
- PS 2 Dancing mat
- PS 2 Guitar
etc.
Quality/Usability : As we have already reviewed the original XCM XFPS 360, this will just talk about the new feature that was added to the XFPS.
If you have not read our review on the XFPS 360 or know what it does exactly, it allows the use of a keyboard and mouse on the Microsoft Xbox 360. Some gamers who have purchased the XFPS 360 had complained about certain things and XCM listened to their customers and decided to fix these problems.
The original XFPS was black and the PRO version is white. This makes the XFPS' easy to identify which one is which. But the color change wasnt the main reason. The reason for the change was some compatibility issues with some mouses that were available. Not everyone has the same mouse and all mouses are manufactured differently. There was no way to adjust the sensitivity on the original XFPS. So some gamers complained that it was either too sensitive or not sensitive at all.
With that said, XCM has added a X and Y sensitivity dials to help adjust the sensitivity. All buttons and switches are the same, just that the dials are located on the top of the XFPS PRO. The X dial is on the left and the Y is on the right. With this, you can now use any mouse and be able to configure to perfection to use with any FPS game you play. You can also make adjustments even during game play.
All other features that were featured on the original XFPS 360 still remains on the XFPS 360 PRO. So you wont be losing anything...just gaining.
You can view the list of recommended mouses at XCM's site.
Conclusion : Overall, the XFPS 360 PRO is just a improved version of the XFPS 360. With the release of the PRO, the original XFPS dropped in price. The original XFPS released with a retail price of $80. The XFPS PRO has a retail price of $85, which is $5 more. Bad thing for those who ordered the original XFPS will have to shell out an additional $85 just to get the PRO version.
DIGG THIS
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:45- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
XCM Bestilt Controller Mod
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from TotalConsole (white) / Buy from TotalConsole (black)
Price: $37.99
Overview : 360 Elite has a HDMI port, its only missing motion sensing. XCM Bestilt is a simple to solder, bottom half of the 360 controller pad shell with a MOTION SENSING feature built-in. You can turn the tilt feature ON or OFF. See the video for a preview.
With an easy installation that requires only 5 wires, and a supplied bottom wireless controller plate, you will be able to enjoy motion sensitivity gameplay for a new sensation on Xbox 360.
- Available in Black or White color
- On/Off Switch to enable/disable the tilt function
- Bottom wireless controller faceplate included
Quality/Usability : The Xbox 360 came out a year before the Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation 3. With the release of the Wii and PS3, both nex-gen consoles feature motion sensing controllers except for the Xbox 360. Microsoft has not addressed this issue but 3rd party peripheral manufacturers have and have stepped up to fill in the void.
Team Xtender aka XCM is first out of the gate with their Bestilt. It is available in two colors, white and black to match whatever colored controller you own. Each Bestilt includes a Xbox 360 backplate with the chip already on the backplate with wires attached. It would have been nice if they had included a torx screwdriver to help assist with opening the back of the Xbox 360 backplate.
Performing this modification will require some soldering experience. If you do not have any experience with using a soldering iron, its best to have someone who does help you. That is of course, unless you dont care on spending additional money on another controller if you mess up. Hey, at least its a $50 or so controller rather then a $400 system.
The Bestilt requires you to solder 5 wires to 5 points on the Xbox 360 PCB board on the controller. Of the 5 points that needs to be soldered, 3 of them are fairly easy as they big enough to solder to. The other 2 however are fairly small and near each other. I actually have no experience with soldering so I took a shot at this. I messed up my controller when I went to solder the two small points. So I went out and bought another controller in hopes that I wont mess this controller up as well. Being more careful the second time around, I was able to soldering the wires successfully. Once the wires have been soldered on, its smoother sailing from here.
After closing up the controller, its time to test out the Bestilt. The switch to turn ON and OFF the motion sensing is located on the case but where the battery is located. Honestly, this is a very bad location. Each time you want to turn it ON or OFF to switch between motion sensing and analog, you must take the battery out. Of course, if you're using a wired controller, you do not have to deal with the battery. Trying to access the switch will require a pen or something sturdy to be able to flip the switch unless you have long nails or very skinny fingers.
Having tested the Bestilt with Blazing Angels, the controlling was smooth and pretty accurate. It may take a little practice getting use to the motion sensing controller as pressing a button to fire will cause the controller to move which in turn, moves your character or vehicle. I also tested the controller mod with Project Gotham Racing 3. Again, the controller faired well and the game responded very well with the controller.
You can view a video of the Bestilt in action:
Conclusion : Overall, the Team Xtender Bestilt Controller Mod is a very unique product. Xbox 360 owners can no longer be felt left out when it comes to motion sensing. Unfortunately, since this is not an Official Microsoft product, developers do not have plans of developing games that uses motion sensing like the PlayStation 3 or the Nintendo Wii. The procedure to get the Bestilt working can be troublesome to those who do not have the soldering experience. What would of been nice was the ability to customize settings on the Bestilt such as instead of having to press a button in PGR3 to accelerate, just tilting the controller forward to accelerate or tilting the controller back would brake would of been great.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:45- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Talismoon TiltBoard Controller Mod
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site: Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
Price: $35.99
Overview : At long last it’s time for Xbox 360™ owners to feel the benefits of tilt sensation, something of which PS3™ owners have been privileged to since its inception. Moreover, the Nintendo Wii™ is a prime example of just how instrumental interactive controllers can be in providing a highly enjoyable gaming experience.
Talismoon’s Tiltboard sports a unique u-shaped board that puts the two Tiltboard control buttons within easy reach of gamers fingers, with one button conveniently located on either wide of the wireless controller battery pack. This gives gamers the ability to make on the fly tilt adjustments during a game without even stopping. This comes in particularly handy for instances in games when it is necessary to switch between both stick and tilt control.
The Tiltboard is an intelligent piece of kit and comes pre-loaded with TiltTune™ technology which is the most user friendly firmware available for such a device. Gamers have the option to adjust the tilt sensitivity, adjust the 0 degree in order to hold the controller at the most comfortable angle, invert the Y axis and turn the tilt function on and off. Everything required to enjoy the latest sensation in console gaming on Xbox 360™ comes in a convenient package and requires only seven wires to solder.
Features :
- Custom Fit Design
- 2 multifunction buttons within easy reach
- Requires soldering 7 wires
- "Best practice" install method eliminates control loss as controller battery life weakens
- Persistent memory keeps your TiltTune settings even if there is no power to your controller.
- The new tiltBoard comes preloaded with tiltTune technology (TM), the most user friendly firmware available, including:
- Adjust tilt sensitivity
- Adjust the 0 degree so that you can hold the controller at whatever angle is natural for you
- Invert the Y axis (independently for either the stick or the tilt)
- Turn the tilt on and off (switch between stick and tilt)
Quality/Usability : The Xbox 360 was the first next-gen console out of the gate..a year before the Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation3. With both next-gen consoles having motion sensing controllers except for the Xbox 360, Microsoft has not addressed this issue but 3rd party peripheral manufacturers have and have stepped up to fill in the void.
TiltBoard first started off as just a mod by Adam Thole (http://www.adamthole.com). Once word spread like wildfire that there was a motion sensing mod for the Xbox 360, modders and gamers wanted to know how to make one or buy one. With the huge interest in the mod, Adam Hole offered the TiltBoard for a price but only limited quantities. Adam Thole then put up instructions on how to make you own TiltBoard with diagrams. The original TiltBoard was on a rectangular PCB board.
With a high demand and Adam having to solder each TiltBoard himself, he negotiated a deal with a well-known specialist peripheral maker, Talismoon. With this deal, Adam will not have to solder each himself, new compact design, professional looking and packaging. As a result of this collaboration, this is the end result that you will receive...
Performing this modification will require some soldering experience. If you do not have any experience with using a soldering iron, its best to have someone who does help you. That is of course, unless you dont care on spending additional money on another controller if you mess up. Hey, at least its a $50 or so controller rather then a $400 system.
The TiltBoard requires you to solder 7 wires on to the Xbox 360 PCB board on the controller and drilling two holes to the Xbox 360 back controller cover. I wont go into the full details of installing as it is fairly long but for instructions on how to install the TiltBoard, you can get them directly from Talismoon's website. You can also get the operating instructions here.
After installation has been completed, its time to give it a test run. Accessing the two buttons on the back of the controller is fairly easy. The button on the left side (viewing back) allowed us to toggle between tilt mode and non-tilt mode simply by pressing the button (quick press). This is great since not all games will require the tilt function. When the tilt function is enabled, the analog sticks with not work.
Holding the button down (1 second) will invert the Y axis. So if you tilt the controller down, you will go up. However, inverting the tilt will not affect the stick control.
The button on the other side (right side) allows you to set the tilt sensitivity by pressing the button once. To use this feature, tilt the controller to the position that you want to be the "maximum" setting for full tilt. This allows you to set how sensitive you want the controllers to be. The sensitivity is set on box axis and is separate, so you can set a wide sensitivity for turning right and left but a narrow sensitivity for moving up and down.
Holding the button down for 1 second sets the controller in RELAXED MODE. By default, the controller must be held perfectly flat and level for your object to go straight towards the "horizon" in the game. There are times where you dont want to hold the controller flat to go straight. An example would be if you were to lean back and relax in your chair. Sitting straight up or standing, our hands are usually the same level as our stomach. But when you're sitting back relaxing, holding the controller flat would be uncomfortable while sitting and us gamers have a tendency of slightly tilting the controller up especially with our arms on the armrest. With our arms on the armrest, our controllers are no longer the same level as our stomach but now with our chest. So with the RELAXED MODE set, you will not have to keep the controller flat with your wrist bent but slightly tilted up and your wrist straight and your object will still go straight.
You can view a videos of TiltBoard demonstation and in action:
TiltBoard Demonstration:
Conclusion : Overall, the Talismoon TiltBoard Controller Mod is a great controller mod. The TiltBoard allowed on the fly adjustments by simply pressing or holding the two buttons on the back of the controller. The different settings that can be applied makes gaming easy. The Tiltboard also came with a drill bit to drill holes for the buttons. If they didnt come with that, people would either have too small or too big of a hole. It would of been nice if they included a template of some sort as to where to drill the holes.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:45- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
DecalGirl Xbox 360 Console Skin Kit
Manufacturer: DecalGirl
Site: Buy from DecalGirl
Price: $7.50 (face only); $17.00* (face+upper); $25.00* (face+upper+lower); $4.00 each (controller skins); HD DVD Player skin
*The "upper" skin is the side of the Xbox that is exposed when the console is used horizontally. If you stand the console vertically, we suggest the complete skin kit (face, upper and lower).
Overview : The faceplate concept is cool, but it leaves the rest of the console sitting there like a chunk of forgotten ivory plastic. The Xbox 360 is an impressive piece of equipment, and now you can take it to the next level with a DecalGirl skin kit. From face only skins to complete wraparound skin combos (shown at top), they're right here.
Quality/Usability : The Xbox 360 doesnt have that glossy look like the PlayStation3, PSP or the Nintendo Wii. It has a matte look to it. The 360 comes in a Ivory white color unless you get the Elite which comes in black or the Halo 3 Edition that comes in seaweed green. But 360 owners are able to customize their Xbox 360 by changing the faceplate. Its cool and all but if your faceplate is colorful and your system is white, it would look awkward.
In comes DecalGirl. Not only will it spice up the look of your Xbox 360 but it'll make it consistent and matching. DecalGirl offers three different choices to choose from: face skin only, face skin and top (when placed horizontal) or full kit that covers all sides of Xbox 360 (when placed vertical). Like all other DecalGirl skins such as the PlayStation 3, PSP, Wii, DS and 360 HD DVD player, installation is very easy. DecalGirl is well-known for their high quality vinyl skins. Skins produced by DecalGirl are vibrant in color and durable. There are a lot of skins to choose from and there will be some that will catch your eyes. You can even match all your consoles such as DS, Wii, Xbox 360, etc. to have the same skin.
As mentioned above, there are three choices to choose from and the best option would be the full kit.
To apply the console skin, I simply started by matching the corners of the skin to the corner of the Xbox 360 for all three sections. Once matched, I did it to the other 2 corners and left the fourth corner alone. Considering the skins are fairly big, it should not be a problem applying the skin. There are a couple of ways to smooth out the skin. You can use a credit card or something similar, your fingers or a rag. I personally use my fingers first to set the skin in place and use a rag to flatten and smooth the skin out. I dont use a card because it has sharp edges/corners and if there is a small hard particle that got trapped underneath the skin, it can ruin the skin.
The faceplate skin can be a little tricky as it has a slight curve to it. Like above, I matched one corner and worked my way along the side to the other corner. Once one side is aligned, I started to work my way to the other end. It may take a couple of tries to get the skin evenly placed. But don't worry, DecalGirl skins are easily removable without leaving any sticky residue and if you mess up, just take it off and reapply!
The controller is also fairly easy as well. Simply make sure that the cut outs line up with the controller and you're set.
Conclusion : Overall, the DecalGirl Xbox 360 Console Skin Kit like all others, it looks great on the Xbox 360. I highly recommend any of DecalGirl skins as they are high quality, durable and goo-free! For the price you pay, you'll get your money's worth.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 00:43- Categories:
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Evolve360 Wild Jungle Edition Controller Faceplate
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site: Buy from Divineo China (Cow Fur) / Buy from Divineo China (Leopard Fur)
Price: $14.95
Overview : With Talismoon range of Evolve 'Wild Jungle' edition for the Xbox 360, gamers are treated to extreme levels of comfort thanks to a soft 'like fur' finish, as well as refreshing and unique new look. Xbox 360 controller come complete with everything needed for a pain-free install, and each fur faceplate pattern will be unique. Styles consist of a 'cow' or striking 'leopard' fur finish. Jungle Edition is also available for PSP.
Quality/Usability : Packaging design is very thought out and cleaver. With the inclusion of an installation guide, torx wrench and screwdriver, installation would be very easy. The quality of build is top-notch. Talismoon has never disappointed anyone with their line of products. The face of the faceplate of the controller feels really nice. I guess its similar to like a fur coat but not as long. Not to mention, you dont have to worry about it shedding. Unfortunately, no buttons or joysticks included so you'll have to use the original. The faceplate fits perfectly on the controller without any problems.
Included:
- 1x complete Xbox 360 controller faceplate
- 1x screwdriver
- 1x tamper resistant torx t8 wrench
- 1x installation guide
Conclusion : Overall, the Evolve360 Wild Jungle Edition is a great product and unique as well. It has a nice feel to it so its not bothersome. Since its made of "fur", the only problem would be for those with sweaty palms. Would it smell? Getting stains on it and removing it would be hard as well. Besides that, this is a great product. I wonder if they would come out with a product with snake skin or something like that.
Images via comments ...
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