Logitech Harmony Advanced Universal Remote for Xbox 360
Manufacturer: Logitech
Site: Buy from Amazon / local electronics store
Price: $79.99-99.99


Overview : The Harmony 360 Remote Control for Xbox 360 is teh sure way to get more enjoyment out of your Xbox 360 and home entertainment system, without having to juggle a dozen remotes. Just connect the Harmony Remote to your computer and the Web wizard walks you step-by-step through a simple set up. It shows you how to set it up so that it's controlling your TV, DVD or clicking into game mode. Even the most complex home entertainment system is easy to control -- and best of all, you can do it without all the hassle of writing macros.

Features :

• Just connect your remote to your computer and answer a few questions about how you currently use your audio/video and entertainment components. Logitech's patented Smart State Technology does the rest.
• Gives you full control of up to 12 devices -- everything from HDTVs to PVRs, DVD players to VCRs, and game consoles to lighting controls
• Use the special Xbox buttons - The Harmony 360 includes convenient Y, X, A, and B buttons and media center controls for your Xbox gaming

Quality/Usability : Having a Samsung HDTV, Xbox 360, HD DVD add-on, satellite/cable box, VCR and sound system, each device comes with their own remote control. Having to touch and turn on/off each one is troublesome not to mention having batteries for each one. Lose one remote or break and and you're screwed in the "not having to get up" department.

The Logitech Harmony Advanced Universal Remote for Xbox 360 is just that...a universal remote for all your home electronic devices. I was fortunate enough to pick up two of these for the price of $36.97 at a local Sears but is available at any electronic retail store but for $99.99. How I get it so cheap considering it retails for $99.99? Sears had a clearance on game items and I snatched them up (i.e. $14.97 for 12 month Xbox Live subscription!). Does the remote look familiar? It should because the look and style is exactly like the Harmony 550 with the exception of color and the 360 version has the four Xbox buttons (Y, X, A, B). How well is this all-in-one remote? Lets find out....

The Harmony remote includes everything you would need to get started once you open the package. There are four AAA batteries already inserted into the remote (for those interested consumers to try out) and four fresh batteries to swap out before actually using the remote.

Unlike some universal remotes, you'll need a computer with internet as the setup process takes place on the internet. It works on a PC (running Windows 98, 2000, Me, or XP) or a Mac (OS X 10.2 or later) with an open USB port. Inside the package, you'll find the following items:

• Logitech Harmony Advanced Universal Remote for Xbox 360
• USB cable
• Installation CD
• Installation Guide
• 4 AAA Batteries

Before starting, its best that you write down all the devices you want to program onto the remote (you can use scrap paper or use the included worksheet provided). Be sure to write the the device type (cable box, TV, speakers, DVD players, Xbox 360, etc.), manufacturer and model number.

Installation and setup of the remote consists of only 5 steps but those 5 steps will require a bit of your time to configure and setup your remote to your likings. Install the four fresh batteries and reset the remote by simultaneously pressing the Y, X, B, A button on the remote.

Whats great about the remote is that Logitech has included more than 80,000 different devices from 2,500 manufacturers. So more than likely, your device is covered. If not, you'll be able to configure the Harmony remote by using the learning feature. What this means is that you can teach the Harmony Remote IR commands. Of course, you'll need the original remote as this is where the Harmony will be learning and syncing from.

To teach commands to the remote for your origional device's remote:

1. Click Devices your home page.
2. Select the appropriate device.
3. Click Learn infrared commands.
4. Select the commands you want to teach the device.
   Note: To teach a command that is not listed, in the Learn a New Command box enter the name of the command you would like to teach and click Learn New Command.
5. Click the Learn Selected Commands button and follow the instructions to teach the commands.
   Note: "Your original remote" will appear beside the command on the infrared language page, indicating the command has been learned correctly.
6. When you have finished teaching the commands, click Done to return to your home page.
7. Update the remote.

Once you have written down all your devices, insert the provided installation CD into your computer or you can download the latest file from Logitech's website. As mentioned before, this will work on box PC and Mac. Installation is fairly short and takes a few minutes. Once completed, the Remote Software automatically launches and you are prompted to connect the USB cable to your PC and Harmony Remote.
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XCM XFPS 360
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
Price: $59.99


Overview : The XFPS 360 is an innovative keyboard and mouse adapter for the Xbox 360 which begins an unrivalled First Person Shooter (FPS) experience to the next-generation gaming console. Not only is the XFPS 360 compatible with all standard PS/2 input devices but also modern USB keyboards and mice. But wait, there's more! The XFPS 360 even makes traditional PS2 DualShock2 controllers compatible on the Xbox 360, as well as a plethora of peripherals. This exquiste device even manages to bring auto fire functionality to the Xbox 360, now that tops off what promises to be the must have peripheral for years to come!

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 : The XFPS 360 is fairly small shelled in a black hard plastic. On the front, there are two USB ports, two PS/2 ports for older mouses and keyboards that dont use USB and the center is where you plug your PlayStation peripherals into.

Setting it up is fairly easy. Take the cord that is attached to the XFPS and plug it into the USB port on the Xbox360. The XFPS requires a wired controller connected in one of the USB ports on the adapter along with mouse and keyboard in order for the adapter to be recognized. Once the Xbox360 recognizes the XFPS, you can remove the wired controller as it is no longer needed unless you are going to re-map the mouse/keyboard buttons. The cable on the adapter is not long and does not have a quick disconnect.

Once you're all connected, it should be smooth sailing. Using the mouse and keyboard is like using a PC. Its easy. If you're playing a first person shooter, its just a matter of point and click. Unfortunately, the XFPS sometimes does not recognize small movements but in some games, you can adjust the sensitivity but even sometimes that doesnt work and the mouse can be finicky especially during those crucial moments when you're going for that headshot! So its pretty much a hit or miss. There were no problems with the use of the keyboard.

What's great about the XFPS 360 is that it is programmable which allows you to re-map buttons to your likings. To re-map the buttons you simply set the switch to SET, push the "P" button, select the buttons on the wired controller you wish to re-map and select the keyboard/mouse button you with to re-assign. An example would be using the left mouse button to shoot: press the "P" button, pull the right trigger on your controller, and click the left mouse button. Now, your left mouse button will do the shooting.

Plugging a PlayStation controller is simple as well. Once it is plugged it, the PlayStation controller mimics the Xbox360 controller without the function of the jewel.

Conclusion : Overall, the XFPS 360 is great for gamers who are use to PC FPS games. The downsides of the adapter is the mouse aiming can be screwy especially during those crucial gameplay moments, MUST need a wired controller in order for the Xbox360 to recognize the adapter and lack of support for headset. Although this may improve gameplay some look down on it. Why? While someone is using a controller to play, someone on the other ends is using a point and click which to some is considered cheating. For the price tag of $80 , its a bit steep if you're a hardcore FPS gamer or on play on a team.

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Xbox 360 System Back Pack XB3400
Manufacturer: ALS Industries
Site:
Price: $89.95


Overview : The System Back Pack bag is a official Xbox 360 licensed product. It can hold your Xbox 360, up to 4 controllers, the power pack, AV cable and the AC cord.

Features :

• Holds Xbox 360™ Console, Up to 4 Controllers, Power Pack, AV Cables and Power Cord.
• Main Pocket Holds and protects Xbox 360™ Entertainment System with Bottom Section for Power Supply.
• Middle Pocket Holds up to 4 Controllers and Front Pocket for Games, Headset and Other Accessories.
• Convenient Mesh Side Pockets for Ethernet Cable and Component HD AV Cable.
• Comfortable Carrying Handle.
• Adjustable Padded Sraps.
• Fully Padded Bag for Maximum protection.

This product is manufactured under license from Microsoft Corporation.

Quality/Usability : We all know that the Xbox 360 isnt the lightest system nor the smallest. Since I'm the gamer in the family and pretty much the entertainer amongst the kids, I tend to bring my consoles to family gatherings to keep everyone entertained whether it be PSP, DS, Wii, PS3 and/or Xbox 360. Its not easy having to carry all those systems plus cables, controllers and games. Thats where the Xbox 360 System Back Pack XB3400 comes in play.

The XB3400 is a back pack so you can easily wear it and not feel uncomfortable while still leaving both your hands free to carry other things. The XB3400 has a flap with a clip at the end of it to keep it closed. When you flip open a flap, you are given three compartments and two elastic mesh pockets on the side.

The two elastic mesh pockets can hold your cables whether they are ethernet, AV, HDMI or the other half of the power adapter.

Lets start with the biggest compartment, the system area. At the very bottom, this is where you will place the brick they call the power supply. Near the bottom is a flap attached via velcro. This is actually a divider between the system and the power supply. When placing the system in, you may need to stick your hand in so that the system doesnt get stuck to the top of the velcro to prevent it from going down further.

The next big pocket accomodates up to four controllers. You can also use it to hold games, other accessories or mix and match.

The smaller compartment also allows you to hold more games or stuff you were unable to hold in the middle pocket.

Conclusion : Overall, the Xbox 360 System Back Pack XB3400 fits everything you would need and more. The bag has a nice thick backing but it would of been nice if the shoulder straps were a little thicker considering the weight of the bag will be all on your shoulder when worn. Downside? The price. $90 for a bag? Its an officially licensed product but I still dont know if this would justify a $90 purchase. This case can be bought from Amazon. Luckily, ConsoleShop offers a price guarantee where they will beat any online price by 5%.

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DecalGirl Xbox 360 HD DVD Skin
Manufacturer: DecalGirl
Site: Buy from DecalGirl
Price: $14.99


Overview : Make your Xbox 360 HD-DVD player look as good as the movies it plays with a new full-color skin kit from DecalGirl. This three-piece kit covers the bland ivory panels with a vibrant DecalGirl skin design, digitally printed at art-quality resolution on the best materials money can buy. As with all of our full-color skins, the glossy finish won't fade, smudge or smear, and there's no residue left behind when you decide to change the skin.

Quality/Usability : With the HD DVD player add-on, there are no replacement cases for it for those looking to change the look or style. There have been people who have dyed the egg-white color casing of the HD DVD player to match their Xbox 360 Elite. Unfortunately, some people dont know how or are too afraid to mess it up. What is the next option? Skins. The DecalGirl Xbox 360 HD DVD Skin is made from vinyl. There are some out there on the market that gives you different designs but the quality are either limited to a certain amount, horrible or the quality is poorly made. Price is cheap but what you pay, is what you get.

With DecalGirl skins, you get the best of all worlds. Not only do you have a lot of selections to choose from but the quality is the best on the market and the price is very reasonable.

The Xbox 360 HD DVD Skin has three skins; top, bottom and side. All skins that you order from DecalGirl are all pre-cut to fit your desired device. Unlike the DecalGirl Nintendo DS Skin, you wont need a pen or sharp object to detach the skins from little pieces. Since the pieces are all huge skins, handling and applying the skins are very very easy.

To apply, I simply started by matching the corners of the skin to the corner of the HD DVD player for both the top and bottom. Once matched, I did it to the other 2 corners and left the fourth corner alone. 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 side skin was a little different. It was cut and shaped differently since it curves. I had to line one side before before smoothing out the rest. If not lined up first, the skin would not fit perfectly on the player.

The only problem I had was the side skin (the smallest piece). The reason why was because it was actually bigger than the HD DVD itself. I had to take an x-acto knife to mark off where the excess skin is. Once marked off or kind of stenciled, I took a scissor and cut it off. Once cut off, the skin fit perfectly. DecalGirl might need to check their template. But its nothing major.

Conclusion : Overall, the DecalGirl Xbox 360 HD DVD Skin fits perfectly and looks great. Applying the skin was very easy and quick. As mentioned, the only minor problem was the slightly bigger side skin which was taken care of by simply cutting the excess skin off. Removing of the skin will not leave any sticky residue which is a big factor when applying anything to your devices. So if you dont like it or messed up, you can reapply it.

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XCM XFPS Sniper Plus
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia
Price: $89.90


Overview : Let's be honest, first person shooters just weren't pioneered to be played on a 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 unfriendly analog sticks are over. The XFPS 3.0 Sniper Plus is here to help Xbox 360 gamers with the ultimate way to play FPS titles – with a Mouse & Keyboard! The XFPS 3.0 Sniper Plus is the latest edition of this amazing device!

The XFPS 3.0 Sniper Plus is an innovative keyboard and mouse adapter for the Xbox 360 which allows you to have an unrivalled First Person Shooter (FPS) experience for the next-generation gaming console. Not only is the XFPS 3.0 Sniper Plus compatible with all standard PS/2 input devices but also modern USB keyboards and mice. The XFPS 3.0 Sniper Plus even makes traditional Playstation 2 Dual Shock 2 controllers compatible with the Xbox 360, as well as a multitude of other peripherals. This amazing device even manages to bring auto-fire to the Xbox 360.

Features :

• Compatible with 95% of the PS/2 or USB keyboard and mouse combinations
• Instant plug and play technology
• Ideal for use with all First Person Shooter titles such as Call of Duty and Halo series and more!
• Extremely durable Yellow coloured shell
• Brings auto-fire functionality to the Xbox 360
• Allows gamers to use Playstation 2 Dual-Shock 2™ controllers on the Xbox 360 ™
• Allows remapping of any Xbox 360 controller key (include both analog sticks) to any key of the keyboard.
• Compatible with the newest version of the Official Xbox 360 wired controllers.
• XFPS Sniper v3.0 Plus is the latest version of the XFPS Keyboard and Mouse Adapter!

Compatible with these PS2 products:
As already touched upon, the XFPS 3.0 Sniper Plus is compatible with Playstation 2 controllers but also the following Playstation 2 peripherals :

• PS2 Light Guns
• PS2 Racing Wheels
• PS2 Dancing mats
• PS2 Guitars

Quality/Usability : I lost count on how many XCM XFPS version are there for the Xbox 360. I think theres like 5 of them? Seriously, I lost count. The XCM XFPS Sniper Plus is a slight upgrade to the XCM XFPS Sniper. Before I go on with the review, is there a difference between the two? Other than the new uglier color in my opinion, no. Is it worth to get this if you already have the green Sniper version? No, unless you love to spend money on things and want the latest product.

To configure your keyboard to act as an analog button for movement, simply set the switch from DEFAULT to SET, plug in your wired Xbox 360 controller and unplug your mouse. Press "P" to program. A red LED will light up. Move the left analog stick either left, right, up or down and press the key on the keyboard you want it as. Repeat until you have done this for all 4 directions. For the right analog stick, perform the same procedure.

To configure your mouse as the trigger, simply unplug your keyboard and connect the mouse. Like the keyboard, press "P" to program. Press the right trigger and than press the left mouse click. Now your mouse is configured to be the trigger. You can use the keyboard as your trigger as well. You can configure it however you like and which ever is more comfortable for your gaming style.

To set up rapid fire function, flip the switch, RT for Right Trigger and turbo is automatically enabled. So when you pull the trigger on the controller or press the left mouse click, your gun will fire rapidly.

The same mouse and keyboards will work on the Plus version. As mentioned, nothing has really changed except for color and minor tweaks.

Conclusion : Overall, the XCM XFPS Sniper Plus works like it should but do we really need all these different revisions? They should just make one product and have it be updated via firmware or something unless its a whole new redesign/product. I think XCM might be running out of colors of the rainbow. Clear colored shell would of been a lot nicer looking like the XCM XFPS RateUp for the PlayStation 3. If you already have the original Sniper version, stick with it. Not worth getting this unless you're rich and want the latest product.

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XCM White 360 HDMI 1080i Cable
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $65.00


Overview : Another exclusive product from XCM, this cable will let you connect your non HDMI Xbox 360 with an HDMI cable to a HDTV or DVI monitor with a high resolution signal of 1080i thanks to XCM HDMI 1080i Cable for Xbox 360 without HDMI Port.

You can now enjoy the same resolutions than people with Xbox 360 Elite!

Features :

• High quality 3rd party product.
• Converts the analog signal to digital signal and acts as a HDMI digital signal solution for HDMI-less Xbox 360's.
• Comes extra RCA sockets and optical socket for connection to speakers.
• Comes with a HDMI to DVI adapter - can be used on a PC monitor as well as a HDTV.

Quality/Usability : Recently within the past year, Microsoft has started to include HDMI port to all Xbox 360 consoles. Unfortunately, for those early adopters playing on a HD TV/monitor are left with a HDMI-less Xbox 360 unless they went out and bought a new Xbox 360 with HDMI port on it.

But those who's original white Xbox 360 didnt succumb to the RRoD (Red Ring of Death) and/or still have the original white Xbox 360, can now have the same ability to play in HD just like all new owners of the Xbox 360. XCM has filled that void by releasing a White 360 HDMI 1080i Cable. Included is HDMI cable, HDMI to DVI adapter, and XCM's nifty device that converts signal to HD.

Setup is fairly easy (video below). With the HDMI 1080i Cable, you'll get up to 1080i output from your original white Xbox 360. The same as if you were to get a Xbox 360 Premium, Elite or Halo 3 edition. To get this setup, simply connect the device to the back of the Xbox 360. Take the HDMI cable and connect it to the other end of the device and the other end of the cable to your monitor/HD TV. If you dont have a HDMI port on your monitor, you can use the included HDMI to DVI adapter.


Just remember that HDMI supports digital audio through the cable but DVI does not, so you'll need to connect speakers. The device has two RCA audio jacks (red/yellow) for those who are using DVI. If you have speakers that also has RCA audio jacks, simply plug it into the HDMI device.

Once all cables are connected, simply turn on the Xbox 360 and you will now have an original white Xbox 360 capable of running in HD via HDMI/DVI. The HDMI device also has a power indicator to let you know that the product is turned on and in use. From what I have tested, the visual quality is the same using this adapter and connecting the Xbox 360 directly to the HDTV via HDMI. I didnt notice any loss of quality.

Conclusion : Overall, the XCM White 360 HDMI 1080i Cable is the best solution for those wanting to play in HD on their original white HDMI-less Xbox 360. The only thing I dont like about the White 360 HDMI 1080i Cable is the size of the device. Its approximately 5" wide. Thats not including the cable. But those who still have the original Xbox 360 and want to play in HD via HDMI should consider looking into this device.

If you're running out of HDMI ports, consider looking into Talismoon HDMI Switcher with Remote, XCM HDMI/DVI Crossover Selector for additional HDMI/DVI ports.

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KontrolFreek FPS Freek Joystick (Retail)
Manufacturer: KontrolFreek
Site: Buy from KontrolFreek / Buy from Amazon
Price: $9.95 (pack of 2) / $17.50 (pack of 4)


Overview : FPS Freek increases your accuracy in first-person shooter games including Halo, Gears of War, Call of Duty and more.

FPS Freek was tested by professional gamers in Halo tournaments and by avid gamers across the country. The results are clear – FPS Freek enhances aiming precision and increases game performance with a minimal learning curve.

The added analog stick length provides 40% more linear distance from full stop to stop. This gives you more leverage and increased control without disturbing your natural gaming feel.

Patent Pending

Quality/Usability : This review is an update to the KontrolFreek FPS Freek Joystick. This review is based off of the final retail product.

The prototype that I received was just a piece of plastic. I had to provide my own rubberized top which was Gel Tabz. The final and retail product has a black rubberized top on it.

Too attach the FPS Freek add-on, simply place the FPS Freek over the analog stick and push down until its securely in place. This adds another 1/2 inch in height to the sticks which gives you better leverage to the joystick. Even with the added height, pressing on down on the sticks feels comfortable. As mentioned, with the FPS Freek add-on installed, this gives a better accuracy and control over movement of the joystick. Putting the FPS Freek through our gameplay testing (Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2, Gears of War, Rainbox Six: Vegas 2 and Call of Duty 4), we saw that we were able to make minor aiming adjustments that would cause us to move right by our target on a normal controller. Instead of shooting past enemy heads or wasting bullets trying to shoot a running target, we were able to precisely aim our crosshair/sight onto our enemies even while they were running like a chicken with their heads cut off.

Having used the FPS Freek for over a year, I am still not the best at FPS games but I have improved my aiming.

Conclusion : Overall, the retail product of KontrolFreek FPS Freek Joystick is just as good as the prototype. Now that it includes the rubberized top, the height is now 1/4 smaller compared to when I used the Gel Tabz. Like the SpeedFreek, this can be used on both PS3 and Xbox 360.

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KontrolFreek FPS Freek Joystick (Prototype)
Manufacturer: KontrolFreek
Site: Buy from KontrolFreek / Buy from Amazon
Price: $9.95 (pack of 2) / $17.50 (pack of 4)

For RETAIL version of review, CLICK HERE.


Overview : Similar concept to KontrolFreek's SpeedFreek. Improve your aim, accuracy, control and gaming in First Person Shooter (FPS) games.

Quality/Usability : As mentioned above, FPS Freek is based off of KontrolFreek's SpeedFreek. Only difference is that instead of a "U" (half-pipe) shaped control, its similar to that of the Xbox 360 controllers. But why release a controller attachment that is shaped the same as the first-party controllers? Simply put, accuracy. When you move the analog sticks around, it feels a bit stiff. With the FPS Freek, its feels looser and gives you better precision.

Too attach the FPS Freek add-on, simply place the FPS Freek over the analog stick and push down until its securely in place. This adds another 1/2 inch in height to the sticks which gives you better leverage to the joystick. Even with the added height, pressing on down on the sticks feels comfortable. As mentioned, with the FPS Freek add-on installed, this gives a better accuracy and control over movement of the joystick. Putting the FPS Freek through our gameplay testing (Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2, Gears of War, Rainbox Six: Vegas 2 and Call of Duty 4), we saw that we were able to make minor aiming adjustments that would cause us to move right by our target on a normal controller. Instead of shooting past enemy heads or wasting bullets trying to shoot a running target, we were able to precisely aim our crosshair/sight onto our enemies even while they were running like a chicken with their heads cut off.

I admit, I'm not the best at FPS games as I tend to move my joystick too much just to get the right aim and by the time I get my aim to where I want it, I'm shot dead. With the FPS Freek, I no longer have that problem. My aim has been consistent as well as my kill rate. What I usually average 0-2 kills (if I'm lucky) now gets me 2-5 kills per round/game.

Conclusion : Overall, the KontrolFreek FPS Freek Joystick has great potential and will definitely improve aiming accuracy. The FPS Freeks we received were prototypes and not finalized retail products. It did not have the rubber caps on top of the add-on, so I went out and bought GelTabz ($5 for the pair) to replicate the final product. KontrolFreek will more than likely also offer the FPS Freek in black just like the SpeedFreek. As of this review, if you preorder you get 20% off when it is available.

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