Hacking the Xbox

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Hacking the Xbox: An Introduction to Reverse Engineering
Deconstructing the Xbox
Now that we’ve discussed some of the tools you’ll need to hack, let’s do
some hacking. The first step in hacking your Xbox is opening the box. Here
are the tools you will need to take the cover off:
• T10 and T20 Torx bits (six-pointed star shaped bits)
• A screwdriver handle for the bits
• Antistatic safety gear (see “Static Electricity: The Circuit Killer”)
• Small flathead screwdriver (helpful, but not required)
Note
Before you start taking apart your Xbox, keep a few things
in mind: first, there is always some risk of permanent damage
when taking things apart, and taking apart the Xbox
voids your warranty. Second, be sure to read through the
entire section before proceeding. And third, have fun.
Step 1: Safety First
Unplug the Xbox. Leaving the Xbox plugged in will expose you to
hazardous, possibly lethal, voltages.
Step 2: Remove Case Screws
Flip the Xbox upside-down and inspect the bottom. There are six screws
that hold the top and bottom halves of the outer shell together, and they
are all hidden underneath labels or the rubber feet. Figure 1-2 illustrates
the position of all the screw locations.
The rubber feet are glued onto the Xbox with a strong adhesive. Removing
the feet will usually require a little bit of help from a flathead screwdriver.
Figure 1-3 illustrates this procedure. Once you have pried up an
edge of the rubber foot, peel it back as evenly as possible so as to
preserve the adhesive backing on the foot. If you are careful, you will be
able to re-attach the foot later on, although after a couple of removal
cycles the adhesive will lose its tack. As a replacement, you can buy
rubber feet at any hardware store and attach them if you use your Xbox
on a surface that is slippery or sensitive to scratching.
Use the T20 size Torx bit to remove the four screws that were underneath
the rubber feet. The screws are fairly long, but their threads are short so
removal should be quick.
The last two screws are hidden underneath the serial number label and the
product certification label. Figure 1-4 illustrates the location of these screws.