Nyko Intercooler 360
Manufacturer: Nyko
Site: Buy from Nyko / Buy from ConsoleSource
Price: $19.99

Overview : Reduce the internal operating temperature of the 360 while prolonging the consoles lifespan. The Intercooler 360 is a snap on cooling attachment that easily connects to the Xbox 360 to significantly reduce the internal heat of the console. The Intercooler 360 provides increased air flow throughout the 360 which allows the internal circuitry to perform at cooler temperatures and last longer. No internal modification of the Xbox 360 is required. A pass through power connection utilizes the existing Xbox 360 power supply negating the need for an extra AC adaptor. The unit also powers on and off automatically with the 360 and the Intercoolers small size will fit in tight spaces like entertainment centers with your 360 displayed in either horizontal or vertical format.

Features :

• Increase air flow and reduces heat throughout the 360 providing extended life and reliability
• Powered by the Xbox 360 console, no extra AC adaptor needed
• Auto or manual power on and off
• Snap on installation means no tools or other modifications are required
• Can be used with the Xbox 360 in vertical or horizontal position

Quality/Usability : The Nyko Intercooler 360 is set out to keep your Xbox 360 cool from overheating and prolong the life of your consoles life. Does it? Read and see what we have to say about it.

The Intercooler 360 has three extra cooling fans that is housed in a plastic housing that matches the 360's color. The Intercooler is snapped onto the back of the Xbox 360's own internal fan to circulate air inside the Xbox 360 which lowers the temperature inside the console. The Intercooler 360 is snapped into the Xbox 360 by using plastic clips that go into the ventilation holes.

The Intercooler 360 has a pass-thru which allows you to plug your power cord into the Intercooler like you would on the console. The Intercooler itself adds about 2 inches to the depth of the Xbox 360 and turns ON and OFF when the console starts and shuts down. Nyko also gave the ability the user the ability to manually turn off the Intercooler with a built-in switch.

With three times the fan power, the Intercooler significantly pushes through more air into the Xbox 360. Simply by placing your hands over the fans, you can feel the air being blown in to the Xbox 360. NYKO claims that there is a ~10 degree difference between the internal temperature with the Intercooler in place versus just the internal fan from the consoles fan. I dont have the ability or the utility to confirm this but we'll just have to take Nyko's word for it.

With three additional cooling fans, you wont notice much noise as the console itself is pretty noisy as it is. You'll be so focused on your game, you wont notice any noise.

There have been some information on the web regarding the Intercooler 360. Some users have stated that the Intercooler has damaged their system or left burn marks on the back of the Xbox 360. Rest assured, there has been no problems. I'm not sure if Nyko has fixed this problem or if it was just a isolated problem and was a defective product for those certain users. But my Xbox 360 has not crapped out on me nor left any burn marks on my system.

Conclusion : Overall, the Nyko Intercooler 360 is a must own for those who have their console in a tight or want to prolong the life of their console. With a reasonable price to boot, its a great investment rather than having to spend another $400 on a new console or having to deal with the hassle of Microsoft's repair center.

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Zoozen Disc Protector 360
Manufacturer: Zoozen
Site: Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
Price: $9.99

Overview : One of the biggest flaw of the Xbox 360 (among the many qualities that makes it an amazing videogame machine) is the problem of damaged/scratched CD/DVD discs, mostly when the console is moved while reading a disc.

Zoozen came up with a simple, easy to install solution to once for all fix this problem!

The Protector 360 is easy to install, only requires a minute to do so, and with its low price is a great deal to protect your expensive games!

And the best thing with this product is that it DOES NOT VOID your xbox360 warranty, since you dont have to open the console.

Quality/Usability : Some of you Xbox 360 owners are afraid of your disc being scratched or are already scratched by the DVD-ROM. This can be caused by minor shaking to the system, moving the system while a disc is loaded inside the system or just a faulty DVD-ROM.

Zoozen has come up with a solution to the scratching problems. They have developed a product called Disc Protector 360. The product is very small and it will help your DVD's live longer.

With this product installed, not only does it NOT require you open your Xbox 360 nor does it void your warranty but now you can place your console in any position without harming your DVDs.

The Disc Protector 360 includes 3 rubber-like pads. These pads are placed on the inner side of the DVD drive. Installation takes a mere 2 mins regardless of experience. All you do is place the 3 pads onto the "mount" On this mount is a piece of cardboard and a plastic circle tube with a straw coming out at one end. On this cardboard, there are three "ditches". In these ditches is where you will place the three pads. Once you have placed the pads, you remove the sticker on the pads to expose the adhesive side of the pads.

Insert the "mount" onto the DVD tray and close it. Once the DVD tray is closed, you'll have to blow on the end with the straw to inflate the tube. What this will do is lift the mount and the pads will stick onto your drive. Once these pads are in place, it will prevent your discs from scratching.

Conclusion : Overall, the Zoozen Disc Protector 360 is a unique product and cheap at the same time. Those having problems with discs being scratched may want to take a look at this product to help solve the situation.

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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. Max ...

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 hooked up at the same time. ...

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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