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  • PS2 News

    by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:41
    1. Categories:
    2. PS2 News,
    3. DCEmu Reviews
    Article Preview

    Memor32 USB Memory Card (PS2)
    Manufacturer: Memor32
    Site: Buy from ConsoleSource
    Price: $69.95


    Overview : The PS2 is certainly no stranger to a continuous flow of great games which is why every hardcore gamer will adore the Memor32. Featuring a unique USB based design, the Memor32 is an advanced memory card for use on any PS2 and PSTwo systems around the world. Unlike standard memory cards, the Memor32 will allow gamers to load and unload save games to and from the PC for use with the PS2. It’s compatibility is up there with the best, with over 1500 games tested and working perfectly.

    Features :
    • 100% MagicGate compatible powerful 32MB memory card
    • Compatible with all PS2 and PSTwo systems worldwide
    • Integrated USB connector
    • Load and unload saves games to and from the PC for use with the console via software
    • Unrivalled compatibility, over 1500 games tested and save compatible
    • Perfectly plug and play device
    • Two years in development

    Quality/Usability : I admit that I usually dont completely unlock all the contents of the game. Then again, after I play the game, I stop playing it and move onto the next game and the game just sits there for months before its traded or sold. But there are also games that require updated rosters that you wouldnt be able to get elsewhere such as baseball, football, basketball, etc. Who wants to sit there and manually update the rosters when you can be playing the game?

    Memor32 has released a USB memory card for the PlayStation 2. It does everything a normal PS2 memory card would do such as load and save game saves. What makes the Memor32 different is that it connects to your PC via USB port on the side of the Memor32. The only thing that I can think of off the top of my head that was similar to this was the SharkPort which was also known as X-Port.

    The Memor32 was tested with the latest (at time of this review) Save Game Manager (SGM) v1.3. Save Game Manager allowed you to transfer downloaded game saves from your PC to the Memor32. Team Memor32 is greatly improving SGM each time there is an update. The first release was just to show that it was legit and that more was to come. 1.1 activated the IMPORT and EXPORT functions. 1.2 added the .max extension support. 1.3 added Windows Vista support but .max extension game saves was not available at time of review.

    Setup is very very easy. First and foremost, format the Memor32 on your PS2. Once its formatted, download their latest Save Game Manager and driver file. Once the files are downloaded, extract and install SGM. You'll need a USB cable to connect the Memor32 to your PC. The same cable used for the PSP or digital camera will work fine. Unfortunately, Team Memor32 does not include a USB cable in order to keep costs down. However, some retailers may include a USB cable. Connect the Memor32 to your PC and Windows will recognize the Memor32 as a USB Serial Port. It may ask to search from drivers but DO NOT let Windows download it from the internet. Instead, remember that driver download I posted above, extract it and direct Windows to search for driver in that folder. It may require you to search for drivers twice so direct it to that folder.


    Upon starting up Save Game Manager, the user interface is clean and straight to the point. The left window shows what files are on the Memor32 and the right window shows your computer. In between the two windows are 5 buttons:

    • BACKUP - transfer game saves from memory card to PC
    • RESTORE - transfer game saves from PC to memory card
    • DELETE - delete game save
    • IMPORT - load game saves from PC
    • EXPORT - export game saves to PC

    The bottom half shows different things. The bottom right displays Memor32 status. It lets you know if the Memor32 is connected or disconnected. It also tells how much space is available on the Memor32. Underneath is a button ERASE MEMOR32. This deletes everything on the Memor32 at once. The left side displays the Save game information such as file name, size, when it was created and modified and icon of game if available.

    Every time a game save is transferred whether it be to the Memor32 or to the PC, a status bar is shown at the bottom. It does not take long to transfer game saves.

    Conclusion : Overall, the Memor32 USB Memory Card (PS2) is a very useful accessory for the PlayStation 2. Unfortunately, its 2 years too late. The PlayStation 2 is on its last legs as publishers and developers are focusing on the new next gen consoles such as the Wii, Xbox 360 and PlayStation3. But this wont stop anyone whether or not you have beaten a game or dont even own any of the new systems. The Memor32 is great for updated sports roster or for those who like to cheat in a game or just to play through it with everything unlocked once they have beaten it...with no cheats of course. Price whoever is a bit pricey especially with no USB cable included. If this was $40USD or so, this would be the sweet spot for PS2 gamers.

    People are wondering, wheres the Memento ...
    by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:31
    1. Categories:
    2. PS3 News,
    3. PS2 News,
    4. Nintendo Wii News,
    5. Xbox 360 News,
    6. DCEmu Reviews

    XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v2
    Manufacturer: XCM
    Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
    Price: $22.99

    Overview : XCM Multi-Console Component Cable V2 (PS2, PS3, Wii, Xbox 360). Not compatible with Xbox 1.

    Features :
    • Fully Compatible with Xbox 360™, Wii™, PS3™ , PS2™ and any TV system.
    • Support Component Signal (Stereo Function)
    • Support AV Signal (Stereo Function)
    • High Quality and High Speed for Transfer Signal.
    • Support Dolby Prologic.
    • Support DTS 5.1 Channel System.
    • Support DOLBY Digital and Surround Sound
    • Support Stereo Sound
    • Support Optical Signal (Xbox 360)
    • Compatible with Surround Receiver or Integrated Amplifier
    • Support CRT, Plasma, LCD or any HDTV System
    • Support D2 (480i/480p); (720i/720p) & D4 (1080i/1080p) technology.


    Quality/Usability : XCM has released their multi-console component cable that supports Xbox360, Wii, PS2 and PS3. This is pretty much an all-in-one cable for your whole entire entertainment center. Like always, XCM impresses us with their quality of products.

    There are three plugs for your console: Xbox360, Wii, PS2/PS3. On the other end are the AV inputs that connect to your TV. On the "switcher" itself, you have four switches: 360HD, 360 Y/Pb/Pr, Wii and PS2/PS3. Of course, which ever system you are playing, you'll have to switch to that system. For those that dont know, 360 Y/Pb/Pr is like a standard component cable.

    The visual quality of each system is pretty good. I didnt notice much of a difference between this cable or the standalone component cable that you purchase separately for each system. When switching to a difference system, there is a 2-3 second delay.

    The cable itself is fairly long so you dont have to worry about having the systems close to the TV but you will have to have your systems near each other in order for the cable to reach each console.

    Conclusion : Overall, the XCM PS2/PS3/Wii/Xbox360 Multi-Console Component Cable is a neat product. Those looking to cut down on cables may want to look into this. It would have been nice if XCM had added a few inches more to the console cables so that the systems dont have to be so close to each other and for those who put their systems into entertainment centers. It would have been also nice if the 360HD and 360 Y/Pb/Pr had swapped places.

    Images via comments ...
    by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:31
    1. Categories:
    2. PS2 News,
    3. DCEmu Reviews

    SplitFish GameWare edgeFX Mouse/Keyboard Controller (PS2)
    Review by: Lastblade aka kingoffighters
    Provided by: DCEmu Reviews

    Manufacturer: SplitFish
    Site: Buy from Play-Asia
    Price: $29.99

    Overview : PS2 owners who have been asking for a better controller for their beloved FPS (all 2 of you), SplitFish has answered your prayers. edgeFX is a mouse/control pad hybrid controller that attempts to give you the type of control that PC gamers have been enjoying since the dawn of humanity (or circa early 1990s).

    Quality/Usability : This controller claims that it will work with any game, so I am curious to see how it works with both FPS and non-FPS. Installation is as easy as plugging in any PS2 controller. The tricky part is putting the contraption on your lap since it has the mouse pad along with the one-handed control pad (let’s call it the “nunchuck”) for your left hand. To be honest, I never could get comfortable with this setup.

    First game I tried is one of my favorite FPS, Black for the PS2. It is a great game and I have hopes that this controller will improve accuracy and speed. Both my accuracy and speed has gone DOWN from using this controller. The reason is that the mouse is basically emulating the right control pad (thus, it can work with any game and does not need special programming from developers to take advantage). There is a knob on the left control nunchuck that allows you to change the sensitivity of the mouse on the fly. This is actually very helpful to find how fast your mouse moves in relation to how far you push the right analog stick on a regular pad. However, even with the highest sensitivity, you are not moving any faster than pushing the right analog stick to the maximum. Of course, this is obvious since the mouse is emulating the right analog.

    Next game I tried is Killzone. This game is noticeably slower than Black so I was doing a bit better with the mouse. After tweaking the sensitivity knob, I was doing better than Black but still not turning around as fast as I want (again, this is inherent in the game itself and not a fault of the controller). The thing is that I did not want to turn faster with a regular control pad, but I do with a mouse. I suppose my own history of playing FPS with a mouse colored my expectation of how a mouse should work on a PS2 game (even though none of them are programmed with this mouse in mind).

    On the nunchuck controller, there is a very nice analog stick for movement and a cross pad. One very cool button is a “focus” button that slows your controller down. You can snipe much easier with this button held down. I wish this button was incorporated in all FPS.

    Finally, I tried to play a non-FPS game, I figure a setup like this would be ideal for RPGs so I tried Final Fantasy XII and it worked quite nicely. I actually enjoy using this controller for this type of games over a RPG. I would not recommend playing an action/platform game with this setup though.

    Conclusion : Overall, the edgeFX controller is a decent alternative for the PS2 FPS library. It does NOT make you turn faster like a real mouse would (unless developers actually develop a game with this mouse in mind, which won’t happen with the last days of PS2), but does make it more intuitive if you are used to mouse + keyboard control.

    I would also like to give a big THANKS to bandit (DCEmu Reviews) for letting me review this product. I hope everyone enjoyed my review.

    Images via comments ...
    by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:31
    1. Categories:
    2. PS3 News,
    3. PS2 News,
    4. Nintendo Wii News,
    5. Xbox 360 News,
    6. DCEmu Reviews

    Penguin United PS2/PS3/Wii/Xbox360 Multi-Console Component Cable
    Manufacturer: Penguin United
    Site: Buy from Penguin United
    Price: $21.99

    Overview : Fully Compatible with Xbox 360™, Wii™, PS3™ , PS2™ and any TV system with component input. The Final High-Definition Solution for all your Next Generation Gaming Consoles. Avoid the Hassle of switching cables behind your television or dealing with tangled cables from all your Consoles, not to mention the saving from buying 1 cable instead of 3. Support D2 (480i/480p); (720i/720p) & D4 (1080i/ 1080p) technology. Actual resolution displayed will be determined by the technology supported by the Console in use.

    The three AV plugs for each console should NOT be connected to their respective consoles simultaneously. Only one console should be connected for the cable to function properly. If more than one consoles are connected, even if it is set to "off" loss of audio or video may occure, but there will not be any damages done to the console.

    Cable is 8 foot long or 2.4 meter in length.

    Features :
    • Support Component Signal (Stereo Function)
    • Support AV Signal (Stereo Function)
    • High Quality and High Speed for Transfer Signal.
    • Support Dolby Prologic.
    • Support DTS 5.1 Channel System.
    • Support DOLBY Digital and Surround Sound
    • Support Stereo Sound
    • Support Optical Signal (Xbox 360)
    • Compatible with Surround Receiver or Integrated Amplifier
    • Support CRT, Plasma, LCD or any HDTV System
    • Support D2 (480i/480P); (720i/720P) & D4 (1080 i/1080 P) technology.


    Quality/Usability : This is the second multi-console component cable we will be reviewing. The first review coming from XCM. We have reviewed a couple of Penguin United's Wii Component Cables already (Regular / Gold / Premium). All of them were pretty good for a new 3rd party peripheral manufacturer.

    There are three plugs for your console: Xbox360, Wii, PS2/PS3. On the other end are the AV inputs that connect to your TV. Unlike the XCM multi-console component cable, there is no switch on the cable that allows you to switch to whatever system you are going to play with. You will have to plug each plug into the system if you want to play with the console.

    The visual quality of each system is pretty good when connected one by one. I didnt notice much of a difference between this cable or the standalone component cable that you purchase separately for each system.

    The cable itself is fairly long measuring approximately 8 feet long. The cables for each console once split from the cable itself is fairly long enough but you will still have to have your consoles near each other.

    Conclusion : Overall, the Penguin United PS2/PS3/Wii/Xbox360 Multi-Console Component Cable is another alternative to those looking to eliminate cables and is looking for a all-in-one source. The quality of the product is great just like all of the other products Penguin United offers. My only complaint was having to insert the plug into the console I want to play each time. Would of been nice if there was a switch of some sort where I can easily switch back and forth without having to keep on removing the cables.

    Images via comments ...
    by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:31
    1. Categories:
    2. PSP News,
    3. PS3 News,
    4. PS2 News,
    5. Nintendo DS News,
    6. Nintendo Wii News,
    7. GBA News,
    8. Xbox 360 News,
    9. Xbox News,
    10. Nintendo Gamecube News,
    11. DCEmu Reviews
    Article Preview

    Zoozen Action PRO Toolkit v2
    Manufacturer: Zoozen
    Site:
    Price: $19.95


    Overview : If you have ever attempted any repair or improvement of any kind, you know that the right tools can make the difference between a good experience and a bad one. The Access Pro Toolkit by Zoozen has everything you need to get into your console and accessories. It is the only toolkit that includes tools for every console and handheld on the market today. And it includes unique and custom tools that are only available from Zoozen.

    This tool kit includes the tools you need for the:

    · Microsoft products, including: Original Xbox, Xbox 360 and accessories like the Xbox 360 wired controller, and the Xbox 360 wireless controller. Special tools: the OneSnap, the only one-piece Xbox 360 case separator, and a special long neck tamper resistant Torx bit.

    · Nintendo products, including: the Nintendo Wii, GameCube, GBA, DS, DS Lite, and most accessories like Nintendo Cartridges, Gamecube controllers, and power supplies. Special Tools: Triwing bits in two sizes and two sizes of rare Linehead Nut Setters in hardened steel. Also has the correct tools for most of the retired Nintendo game machines (those not currently for sale in the marketplace).

    · Sony Products, including: PS3, PS2, PStwo, and PSP and many accessories (for example: Sony controllers).

    · The Access Pro Tool Kit also has the correct tools to open most third party products.

    The tools are all housed in a convenient plastic case that keeps all the parts just where they belong. And, duplicates of most bits are provided, just in case you drop a bit behind your desk during a critical procedure.

    Includes:
    • 1pc Easy grip screwdriver handle
    • 1pc Magnetic Tweezers
    • 1pc "OneSnap" tool for opening Xbox 360
    • 1pc Linehead nut setter (small size)
    • 1pc Linehead nut setter (large size)
    • 1pc Flathead bit, Long
    • 2pcs Torx Size 6, Tamper Resistant
    • 2pcs Torx Size 8, Tamper Resistant
    • 2pcs Torx Size 10, Tamper Resistant
    • 2pcs Torx Size 15, Tamper Resistant
    • 2pcs Torx Size 20, Tamper Resistant
    • 2pcs Hex Size .05
    • 2pcs Triwing Bit
    • 2pcs Phillips #000
    • 2pcs Phillips #0
    • 2pcs Phillips #1
    • 2pcs Slotted 7/64

    Quality/Usability : Those who mod consoles or want to start modding, the Zoozen Action PRO Toolkit v2 will help you out tremendously. The Zoozen Action PRO Toolkit v2 has tools for Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo products ranging from console to games and accessories. This toolkit will open even the new nex-gen consoles.

    Xbox 360 – Torx T8, T6, T8, T10, Hex 0.05, Slotted 7/64, OneSnap and a Long Slotted Screw Bit
    Xbox – Torx T10, T15, T20
    PS3 – Torx T10, Phillips 0, Phillips 1, Phillips #000
    PS2/Two – Phillips 0, Phillips 1
    PSP – Phillips #000
    Wii – Triwing, Phillips 0, Phillips #000
    Gamecube – Linehead Nut Setter #8
    DS/DS Lite – Triwing #00, Tripoint #0, Phillips #000
    Gameboy – Triwing #00, Tripoint #01
    Nintendo Cartridges – Linehead nut setter #6

    The screwdriver handle is made of a rubberized grip instead of plastic like some screwdrivers are made of. This allows for easy gripping. Each bit that was placed was held in place very tight.

    Each bit unscrewed each screw nicely without stripping the screws. Screwing each screw back into place worked wonderfully as well.

    Dropped a screw and cant reach it or need to hold a wire or LED in place? Zoozen also included a magnetic tweezer to help hold those thin wires or screws that may be too small to hold in your fingers.

    Conclusion : Overall, the Zoozen Action PRO Toolkit v2 is a modders dream come true. Everything you need to help open your mod frenzy finger is all in this Zoozen Action PRO Toolkit v2. Add a dremel and a soldering iron and this would be the Ultimate modding tool! It would also have been useful if the bits were magnetic to pick up the small screws. The price of $19.95 is definitely well priced and worth it.

    Images via comments ...
    by Published on February 1st, 2011 23:53
    1. Categories:
    2. PS2 News

    News via AEP

    The PS2 Emulator for Windows ValDanX has had a new test release.


    Quote:
    GSdx:
    1. Fixed compilation bug.
    2. Created "Skip Bad PostProcessing" hack (fix black screen in Prince of Persia WW (menu), maybe can help in other games).
    3. Fixed graphics bugs in software mode.

    GSdx CUDA:
    1. Fixed compilation bug.
    2. Added detection of the CUDA device


    site - http://valdanx.3dn.ru/ - rus

    forum - http://valdanx.3dn.ru/forum/ - rus

    official project - http://code.google.com/p/pcsx2/

    official project site - http://pcsx2.net/ ...
    by Published on February 1st, 2011 23:47
    1. Categories:
    2. PS2 News,
    3. Xbox 360 News,
    4. DCEmu Reviews

    XCM XFPS Mini Guitar (PS2/360)
    Manufacturer: XCM
    Site: Buy from Goldenshop
    Price: $59.00-79.95


    Overview : Enjoy all guitar games on Playstation 2 and Xbox 360 with XFPS Mini Guitar. Reduced size but with a great feeling, it is perfect for home but can be carried around easily!

    Only half the size of a classic PS2 guitar, the XFPS Mini guitar is compatible with all Playstation 2 guitar games but also with Xbox 360 when used with XFPS 360 (regular, Pro or Sniper version).
    Made of wood, it has a nice authentic feeling and is very convenient to play.

    Features :
    • Half the size of classic PS2 guitar
    • Compatible with Playstation 2 and Xbox 360
    • Includes all buttons for PS2 and Xbox 360
    • Made of wood for authentic feeling

    Requires XFPS 360 or XFPS 360 Pro to be used on Xbox 360.

    Quality/Usability : Everyone has heard of Guitar Hero. Whether you're a gamer, a parent or both, you heard the name before. Its one of the hottest music games to date and probably sold the most. There are Guitar Hero bundles where it includes game, guitar, strap and stickers. When a new game is released, sometimes its either game or another bundle or even both.

    What if you just want the game and not have another huge box/guitar take up room? XCM has stepped in and released a XFPS Mini Guitar. The Mini Guitar is constructed out of actual wood. The main plug is a PlayStation 2 plug but can also work on the Xbox 360 with the addition of XCM's XFPS PRO or 3.0 Sniper. The guitar is fairly small and measures approximately 12 inches. Although the guitar is made of wood, it is actually lightweight.

    On the front are 5 fret buttons, two selection buttons, strum bar, whammy bar, start and select buttons. On the back of the guitar is a switch that lets you choose between Guitar Freak & Drum Mania games (Option A) and Guitar Hero games (Option B). Below are usage instructions:




    So how good is the Mini Guitar? Where do I even begin? The size and weight is great but it just feels too awkward. Its way too small and feels like a ukulele. The fret and selection buttons are too small and too close to each other. If you have the fret buttons on the left hand, its fine but if you have the fret buttons on the right hand, it will feel uncomfortable as you have a piece of the guitar obstructing your gameplay.

    Its cool that the fret and selection buttons light up but you wont be looking at the guitar when you're playing the games so I think its useless. Theres also no need to press on the strum bar which by the way feels awkward. Feels like its going to fall off. Just pressing the any of the fret buttons alone will register as a button press. If you look at the video below from XCM, you'll see what I mean. Just watch the fingers on the fret and strum.


    Around 45 seconds into the video, you can see that fret buttons are the only ones pressed and the strum bar is not and this happens every so often during gameplay. (video from XCM)


    Around 1:14 into the video, you can see that fret buttons are the only ones pressed and the strum bar is not and this happens every so often during gameplay. (video from XCM)

    The whammy bar is different as well. On the Guitar Hero guitars, you can swivel the whammy bar to your preferred location which the Mini Guitar allows you to do also. But what it doesnt let you do or as much is press down on the whammy bar. There is no spring reaction. The whammy bar on the Mini Guitar was more parallel to the guitar itself than the stock image below (must be registered to view).

    Activating the Star Power can be an annoyance if you prefer to tilt the guitar. I personally prefer to hit the SELECT button even on the Guitar Hero guitars. On the Mini Guitar, sometimes it activates and sometimes it wont. The Star Power will sometimes even activate with a slight tilt or shake of the controller which sucks especially if you're trying to build up on Star Power for that perfect moment.

    Conclusion : Overall, the XCM XFPS Mini Guitar (PS2/360) didnt do so well in our testing. The only good thing about the Mini Guitar was that its light and small. Pressing of only the fret buttons is easier for some as you only have to worry about the buttons but it takes the fun out of the game. Its like playing Dance Dance Revolution but with only your fingers. For the prices that online stores are charging, it might be better to pick up a normal sized controller from a 3rd party manufacturer from a retail store for an extra $10-20. If XCM followed the style of the Guitar Hero's, they might have a good product as the GH guitars were perfect for playing. Revamping the style and look backfired on them.

    Images via comments
    by Published on February 1st, 2011 23:16
    1. Categories:
    2. PSP News,
    3. PS3 News,
    4. PS2 News,
    5. Nintendo Wii News,
    6. PC News,
    7. Xbox 360 News,
    8. Nintendo Gamecube News,
    9. DCEmu Reviews
    Article Preview

    XCM USB Vbox2 Advanced
    Manufacturer: XCM
    Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from ConsoleSource / Buy from GoldenShop / Buy from Amazon.com
    Price: $85.00

    3x RCA RGB Component Video Splitter
    Site: Buy from Amazon.com

    3 RCA RGB Component Video Cable
    Site: Buy from Amazon.com (3.3ft Monster Cable) / Buy from Amazon.com (6ft Generic)


    Overview : Enable video game play on your laptop, netbook and desktop.

    Fully Compatible with Xbox 360™, Wii™, PS3™/PS2™, PSP 2000/3000 series™, Xbox™ GameCube™ or any device with component output. You can record gameplay, movie or take a screenshot of the gameplay to the hard drive so you can edit, use it as a wallpaper or record your gameplay for analysis. Compatible with Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP.

    Feature :
    • Crystal Clear Picture Screen.
    • Supports USB 2.0. Plug and play. Does not require any configuration
    • Supports Streaming Video. Can be stored in multiple formats including: (MPEG-1/MPEG-2/MPEG-4/AVI/VCD/DVD/SVCD)
    • Supports multiple picture file formats such as JPEG and GIF.
    • Supports multiple input formats such as (NTSC/PAL/SECAM)
    • Auto playback allows you to store in game action to your PC/laptop)
    • Display settings can be adjusted such as Brightness/Contrast/Image Sharpness/Fullness/Color
    • Supports Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP operating systems

    Quality/Usability : Whether you're a game reviewer or a gamer who just wants to record their gameplay to show off to friends, post on the web or even capture the greatest moments, you would need to point your camera at your TV or connect your consoles to a capture video card on your computer. XCM has released the Vbox2 Advanced. This is an updated version of XCM V-box for the Wii. The Vbox2 Advanced works not only for the Wii but for Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, PSP 2000/3000, Original Xbox and GameCube.

    The Vbox2 Advanced comes in a well built, white shell and a fairly small adapter. The USB cord is approximately 3 feet long. In order for this to work and to set it up, your computer needs to be near the consoles or you can use a laptop/netbook. This will not work on MAC's as the software works only on Windows Vista, XP and Windows 7. The driver and software can be downloaded at here. Some other system requirements are support for Direct X9.0 or higher version of AGP video card, Pentium 4 1.8GHz or higher, Centrino 1.4 GHz or higher, 256MB RAM, USB 2.0, Harddrive space (200MB for software, 1GB or more for recording space depending on length of record and file format.

    Installation is very easy. Its like any other computer program. Simply download the driver from the link above and save it to you desktop. Once downloaded, extract the file. Double click on the file named "Vbox2 Advanced DRIVER.exe". Follow the prompts and at the end, it will require to restart your computer. Once your computer has rebooted from the restart, now its time to install the software. Double click on the file named "Vbox2 Advanced.msi" which is in the same folder as the driver. Follow the prompts and at the end, it will require you to restart your computer again. Once the computer has rebooted and the installation has been installed, there will now be a new icon on your desktop.

    The first time you plug in the Vbox2 Advanced to the USB port on your computer, it will pop up with a message showing "Found New Hardware - USB 28165 device" and than "Found New Hardware - Your new hardware is installed and ready to use". Typical for any USB device being used for the first time. Now that the device has been found and ready to use, you can double click on the new Vbox2 Advanced icon. Double clicking on the icon will load up the software and will display the Vbox2 Advanced splash screen and sound clip. MOST IMPORTANTLY: Before disconnecting your console from your TV, be sure to set the consoles resolution to 480i/576i or 480p/576p. This is the only way the Vbox2 will recognize the signal from the console. If you dont and you just plug the cables to the Vbox2 Advanced, you'll get nothing but static or black screen.

    Once you have set the correct resolution on the console, you can unplug the component cable from your TV and plug it into the Vbox2 Advanced. To display your console on the software, you will need to click on the camcorder icon (Switch to Media Viewer Mode) under viewer. A new set of toolbar icons will show underneath. Under "Select" click on "Device Options". This will show a window with "Video Format...", "Video Setting...", "Video Source", "Audio Format..." and "Audio Capture Pin...". Select "Video Source", it will show another window with "PAL", "NTSC", "480i/576i" and "480p/576p". From here, you will select the resolution of your console.

    There are so many things you can do such as record your gameplay, take snapshots of your gameplay, play in full screen. You can even save a profile with your settings.

    Videos below is to show you how to set up the Vbox2 Advanced with many consoles:
    Microsoft Xbox 360


    PlayStation 3 PS3


    Nintendo Wii


    Nintendo GameCube


    PlayStation 2 PS2


    PlayStation Portable PSP 2000/3000
    ...
    by Published on February 1st, 2011 23:15
    1. Categories:
    2. PSP News,
    3. PS3 News,
    4. PS2 News,
    5. PC News,
    6. Xbox 360 News,
    7. Nintendo Gamecube News,
    8. DCEmu Reviews
    Article Preview

    XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box
    Manufacturer: XCM
    Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Divineo France / Buy from ConsoleSource / Buy from Amazon
    Price: $79.90-120.00


    Overview : Connect any Component Video source to any VGA monitor for the best resolution possible! Supports up to 1080p HDTV resolution! New sleek design.

    Features :
    • Supports PC video display resolutions up to UXGA (1600 x 1200 @ 75 Hz) or HD TV (up to 1920 x 1080)
    • Supports 480i, 480p, 576i, 576p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p
    • Display pictures from your console (Game Cube, Playstation 2, Xbox, PSP Slim, Wii , Xbox 360, Playstation 3) on your PC monitor (up to 1600 x 1200) or HDTV (up to 1920 x 1080)
    • Supports SDTV, HDTV, XGA, SXGA, and UXGA video formats.
    • Works on both PAL & NTSC systems.
    • Easy Plug and play installation.
    • Connect any compatible YPbPr (component video) device to your VGA monitor via Integrated YPbPr to RGBHV converter.
    • Applications: TFT LCD monitor, CRT monitor, Set-top box, Display projector
    • Works on LCD TFT monitors
    • Video output: VGA
    • Automatic video source mode detection (film/graphic)
    • Motion-adaptive interfiled de-interlacing
    • Uses the power from your USB port, no extra power supply needed!

    Quality/Usability : I dont like to have lots of wires dangling or have to constantly plug/unplug cables so I opted to use the XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3. The XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box is housed in a sturdy chrome casing with component cable input, VGA input and output, stereo speaker input and USB power input. The top of the XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box contains a SOURCE button as well as directional pads. The SOURCE button lights up when in use (blue for component and green for VGA) and allows you to switch between your computer/laptop or consoles. The directional pads allows you to change resolution and frequency on your monitor.

    Below is a video of the Mega Cool VGA Box being used with the Multi-Console Component Cable.


    I connected my PSP Slim, Wii, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Dell computer to the Mega Cool VGA Box and to my Dell 24" 1080p Widescreen monitor. All worked flawlessly without a problem. Pictures displayed just like it would on a TV/monitor. There were no lags or distortions. I liked that you were able to change the resolution and refresh rate from the VGA box rather than going through all the menus on your monitor/TV. What I dont like however is that it only supports 1 component cable. Luckily, I have the multi-console cable but others might not and this may be an annoyance.

    When switching devices, it does not remember the display resolution. So you'll have to go and change it each time. Its not a big problem but would be nice if it remembered the previous setting. I like the fact that it gets it power through the USB. Having multiple consoles, TV, satellite box, computer and other devices plugged in, I am running out of sockets in the surge protector. So using a USB port from either the Xbox 360, Wii, PS3 or PC is a PLUS in my book. If you're not using that device that the VGA box is connected to, it wont be powered. So you'll have to turn it on.

    Conclusion : Overall, the XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box works great but as mentioned, it only allows for one component input. So if you have a PS3, Wii and Xbox 360, you can only connect one. If you want to play a different console, you'll have to unplug the cable and insert the other one. If you're like me and want to make your life easier, I suggest looking into XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3. One cable that has all the connections for all consoles. When you want to use that console, just move the switch to that corresponding console and you're ready to go. No unplugging or plugging needed.

    Would be nice if this was extended to incorporate additional component cables and turned into maybe a selector?

    Images via comments ...
    by Published on February 1st, 2011 23:15
    1. Categories:
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    XCM Universal YPbPr 1080p VGA Box
    Manufacturer: XCM
    Site: Buy from Play Asia / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Amazon
    Price: $59.00


    Overview : A true universal VGA box compatible with the new generation consoles on todays market (Xbox 360, Playstation 3, Wii) and also with Xbox.

    Compatible with both PAL and NTSC system, it is available with European or US power supply. A plug and play installation will give you Ypbpr input with all consoles, now with a 1080p resolution!

    Features :
    • High quality 3rd party product.
    • Fully Compatible with all component devices - e.g. x-box, x-box 360, PSX3, Wii, DVD players, etc...
    • Compatible with PAL or NTSC system.
    • Double scan conversion (31.5KHz for NTSC, 31.25KHz for PAL,67.5KHz for 1080p).
    • Output resolution ; up to 1080p
    • Plug and play installation.
    • Connect compatible YPbPr device to your VGA monitor.
    • Integrated YPbPr to RGBHV converter.
    • Supports 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p.
    • Applications: TFT LCD monitor, CRT monitor, Set-top box, Display projector.
    • Works on LCD TFT monitors.
    • Video output: VGA.
    • Automatic video source mode detection (film/graphic).
    • Motion-adaptive interfiled de-interlacing.
    • Get the power from USB port of consoles or PC, no extra power supply needed.
    • Comes with 3 component cables - PSX3, Wii & XB360.

    Quality/Usability : The XCM 1080p allows you to hook up your PS3/Wii/Xbox360 computer monitor via VGA. With all the new consoles and the ability to output into high-definition, and the high costs of HDTV's, not everyone has them. But we actually do...our computer monitors.

    Included in the package, you'll find the following items:
    • XCM 1080p VGA box unit
    • USB to USB-miniB cable
    • Component cables:
      • Wii (non-shielded)
      • Xbox360 (shielded, includes optical digital audio connector)
      • PS3 (shielded)
    • Instruction booklet

    Unfortunately, no VGA cable was included. This was probably due to cost factor. Had XCM included the cable, price of the product would of been higher. So to keep the price down, they didnt include the VGA cable.

    Like all cables that XCM releases, they are sturdy and high quality cables. You will not be disappointed.

    The VGA box itself is also sturdy and well built. The outer casing is made of opaque clear plastic. The connectors are standard quality and nothing special. Something caught my eye though. Under the VGA CARD slot, although the connection is a male connector, there was a female type connector. This connector uses the two screws similar to that when you're connecting your monitor to your video card on your PC. You can see it in the image below but on the mock up images, you dont see it. To fix this problem, simply remove the shield around it so that you can connect the cable.

    Before purchasing this product, you must know that the VGA box does not change the output resolution. So you should check your monitor to see if it supports the resolution you are going to be used.

    Connecting everything to the VGA box is fairly simple and is explained easily in the instruction manual. On top of the box is a switch that allows you to switch between VGA and COMPONENT. The front has a MONITOR and VGA CARD port. On the back, it has YPbPr inputs. To the left are SOUND IN, SPEAKER OUT and 480p~1080p/1080i switch. And on the right side is the USB POWER port to power the VGA box.

    All images looked crisp and I didnt have a problem with any of the consoles. Just remember that the Wii can not upscale images as it is not capable of doing so.


    Conclusion : Overall, the XCM Universal YPbPr 1080p VGA Box is a useful product for those who do not have HDTV. It would of been great if they included the VGA cable as the box allows you to switch video signals. So you can use video signal from your console or connect to your PC's video card to output to your monitor. Its understandable that they left it out to keep costs low. If you have an extra VGA cable around the house, you wont have to worry.

    Images via comments ...
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