Consoles are by far the most popular form of gaming in North America, with numerous advantages for both businesses and consumers.
Pros…
Low Price: Hardware is inexpensive, often costing much less than a PC. In fact, companies lose considerable sums each unit sold.
Simplicity: A clean and ergonomic controller performs all essential functions. Games are loaded in a fraction of the time it takes a PC. The system can be turned off safely with the touch of a button.
Universality: All games, regardless of technical demand can be played on the same hardware; no need to upgrade or fear that one’s system is obsolete. Developers strive for more efficient rendering techniques, instead of putting the burden of purchasing a new machine on the consumer.
Diversity: A wide range of content has something for everyone, regardless of age or interest. There are even exclusives that cannot be found on other platforms.
Multiplayer: Consoles allow friends to play together in split screen as well as offering global competition via an Internet connection.
Reverse Compatibility: New consoles are able to play games from previous versions. Eg. PS2, Xbox 360
Renting: Instead of being forced to purchase software, users can simply rent games for a week at their local video store.
Disadvantages…
Expensive Software: Developers charge too much for their games, prices in the $60 - $70 range upon release. This is done to neutralize losses in the sale of hardware.
Limited Capabilities: Compared to a PC, console ported games have considerably less depth and detail.
Lack of Customization: Once a game is released, neither updates nor further additions are made. Players cannot add their own content; material which adds renewed interest.
Limitations: Despite the close similarity between console and PC in terms of hardware, software restricts it from performing universal tasks.
Modding
To get around these downfalls, hobbyists have developed methods to turn their console into the ultimate hybrid.
Welcome to the underground world of “modding” Once modded, consoles will be able to:
• Backup purchased games • Install various user made programs / game modifications • Play foreign / import media • Run homebrew arcade games • Emulate another game console • Access the Internet • Online play through virtual system link (no cost compared to Xbox live) • Stream media from online sources (eg. CNN News) • Check TV schedules • Watch the latest movie trailers • Check local whether reports • View picture slideshows • Control fanspeed, LED color, and other tweaks • Run a Linux based operating system • Use as a low cost web server
The list goes on. You are only limited by your imagination. How is this done?
The PC Connection
Inside a console is no mystery. It possesses the same basic parts as a computer: a motherboard, processor, memory chips, optical drive, GPU, network adapter, but most importantly, a BIOS.
Key to Change
The Basic Input Output System is simple code stored on a microchip that the computer executes upon boot. Among the data stored are the system time, hardware settings, and boot sequence. In a console, the BIOS launches the dashboard (equivalent to an operating system), and activates copy protection (preventing the execution of burnt / illegal discs). In order to run third party programs modifications will have to be made to the BIOS. This is easier said than done. Unlike a computer, game consoles do not give users access to BIOS setup. Manufacturers don’t want users to tweak with settings, potentially defecting the hardware.
Early Attempts
A solution proposed by early modders involved physically removing the BIOS chip, altering its contents with a computer, then re-soldering.
Significant problems arose:
• Opening a console automatically voids its warranty. • It is hard to tell which chip holds BIOS data of the numerous black rectangles that dot the motherboard. • BIOS connectors found on consoles differed from that of a PC; connecting it to a computer motherboard was impossible.
This method is high risk, with no backups, undos, nor second chances.
Microsoft’s Folly
The Microsoft Xbox is by far most heavily modded system. Bill Gates made sure its architecture resembles a PC as much as possible; this was a mistake. It is now believed that 10% - 15% of Xboxes are modded, either with a softmod, or application of a modchip.
Softmods
A surgeon is paid more than a programmer. Similarly, one can exploit the BIOS via software in a much easier and economic fashion…
Softmodding has considerable advantages:
• The console remains intact, no physical alterations performed • Low cost operation (rented game + memory card) • Little skill and time are needed • Will not void the warranty (can be restored to its original form)
There are 4 elements to a softmod:
1. One of the following retail games: MechAssault, Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell, 007 Agent Under Fire; (must to be first edition) 2. A hacked savegame 3. An Xbox memory card 4. An adapter to transfer savegames from a computer to the memory unit (eg. Action Replay, Gameshark, Mega-Key X…)
The first element is crucial to success. One needs to obtain the first edition (not Platinum Hits) of either 3 aforementioned games. This is because they utilize a Linux-type backend, vulnerable to attack. Upon loading a hacked savegame, the software will be fooled into running unsigned code, in the form of an installer. One can choose to install either Linux, or a 3rd party dashboard. After reboot, the familiar green menu will be replaced.
Once Microsoft discovered this flaw, games were revised so they did not run on Linux.
This type of mod offers full functionality without physical distortion. On the downside:
• Only 3 games are known to work in softmodding • Mod disables the ability to play on Xbox Live • Upgrading harddrives is very complicated and time consuming • Less reliable than modchip, and not guaranteed to work
Modchips
The most popular form of modding is by physical means. A modification microchip (modchip) is a small gadget is soldered onto the console motherboard. It runs a separate BIOS off an onboard memory chip, leaving the original intact. Because of the delicate nature of a computer environment considerable skill is required for installation. Though solderless variants are available, they suffer from a weak connection. Physical console mods hold the following advantages:
• Chips are easily obtained from the Internet or a local retailer • A backup of current settings is made in case something goes wrong • Mod can be turned off, so Xbox Live completely functional • Harddrive upgrades are easier than with a softmod
On the downside:
• Mods may be pricey ($15 - $80, plus install) • Requires opening of the case, which will automatically void the manufacture’s warranty • Has the potential to cause hardware damage if installed incorrectly
Budget Induced Flaw
Microsoft is losing a considerable sum selling its console hardware below the cost of parts. Funds are reimbursed through the selling of software. Game development requires extensive testing on any given platform. Programmers find it simply uneconomical to manufacture an updated disk for each minor change in code. What is needed is a hardware development chip capable of debugging and making quick adaptation on the fly. Coincidentally this tool is a modchip. Both have similar architectures, soldering onto the motherboard’s LPC ports. These pins have been included in Xbox assembly for this exact purpose. Despite that Modders are taking this to their advantage, Microsoft finds it uneconomical to run two separate production lines, one for consumers, another for developers, all for the sake of a few pins being present. After all, they’re already losing money in the manufacturing process. This move has made it easy for consumers to install their own “development devices”.
Installation
To open the Xbox, turn the console over and remove the 4 adhesive rubber feet located on the underside. These will give access to 4 of the 6 screws. Uncovering the warranty sticker and serial number (barcode) will reveal two more. Using a Torx 20 screw bit, unfasten each of the points. Flip right side up and remove the top shell. In visible should be the DVD rom and harddrive. For access to the motherboard, these two obstructions must be removed. Start by uplugging the IDE cable from the back of the HD. Unscrew the bolt holding down its caddy, then gently lift up and out. Unplug the power cables from the motherboard. Similarly, remove the IDE cable from the DVD rom, followed by unscrewing two bolts holding down the DVD tray. Unplug the power, and clear should be the complete mother board. Several properties can determine what version the Xbox belongs to. From this point, it is highly recommended one seek the help of a professional in soldering a modchip. The process requires meticulous bonding of 10 – 25 solder points. One unfortunate misstep can fry the motherboard, rendering it a useless short circuit.
Software Setup
Before proceeding with the software setup, back up savegames, replays, online accounts and other worthy data onto a blank memory card. With the modchip is securely in place, the first step is to configure various settings. As the console is booting, hold down a certain key combination (consult online menu for correct one); otherwise, the console will boot as normal. Through a setup interface, a backup of current settings can be made, just in case something goes unexpected. Update the BIOS if desired. Newer ones will add greater functionality to the one preloaded onto a chip. Next, format the hard drive and partition, following the specified outline. It is optional that a modded console is connected to the World Wide Web. Xboxes come ready with a network adapter. Thread this through the home, plugging one end to the console, the other to an open router port. Continue by specifying network options, such as passwords and security policy (much like a PC). These are the principal steps, while minor tweaks such as led color, boot logo, and fan speed can be determined. It is now time to obtain 3rd party software. An alternate dashboard is needed to perform the various functions the hardware can execute. Popular dashes include EvolutionX, Avalaunch, and Xbox Media Center. Media center is the key to unlocking various features. It allows the console to play DVDs, VCDs, Music CDs… Virtually all audio, video files can be decoded. Picture slideshows can be presented stylishly with suitable music. If one lacks harddrive space, media can be streamed through a networked PC. The Python script engine allows users to download various multimedia functions, such as video streaming from a favorite news site, satellite imagery of exotic world locales, or a daily Garfield. The occasional odd script functions as caller ID or can initiate a remote computer shutdown. Actual programs include game backup, an Internet browser, or various homebrew arcade games such as pong. These dashboards are obtained through certain IRC chat servers and can be transferred to the console through FTP.
Legal Controversy
The legality of such console modifications is disputed. Though one technically owns their console, and is allowed to do anything with it, software is of greatest concern. Xbox is not meant to run third party programs, only a few limited user interfaces, thus the development kit used to code and compile Xbox programs can be accessed by a handful of people. Those who produce software such as XBMC neither got the rightful permission from Microsoft to do so, nor obtained the software development kit legally. The Xbox developers kit is sold to game programmers such as EA, for a hefty $2000, and this is with the granted approval of MS. 3rd party hobbyists would never have their ideas of console exploitation approved by Bill Gates thus not being able to obtain the development kit, and plus do not make any money in their endeavors thus not willing to legally purchase the developers bundle. They have obtained the tool through piracy, with a team of individuals who cause and distribute software leaks. By downloading software created with pirated programming kits, the end user is partly responsible and having committed an unlawful offence. This applies to any console, though of the user simply puts on Linux for development purposes, no law is broken. If the user decides to pirate legal games, immediately he or she is breaking the law.
What makes the software easy to pirate is its media format, namely DVD (though some still run on the CD platform). When first developed, no one realized that one day everyone’s computer would be loaded with a DVD writer, though the process of piracy is not as simple as you think. Ordinary DVD drives cannot read the contents of a special console disc for there are conflicts in format. Try inserting an Xbox of PS2 disc into your computer. It will be met with read errors and indecipherable data clusters. The only way to make a copy of the data is to have the console read all the files contained on the disc, and network them onto a computer hard drive. It can then be compiled into an image file and burned onto some blank media. This presents two problems: • The console BIOS restricts such functions to be performed, or software of such nature to be installed. • Even if the disc data is successfully transferred and duplicated, the console’s copy protection system will detect slight variations in the data structure, or discover it is a burnt disc and refuse to execute.
An easy solution to the first problem would be to hook up the console’s optical drive to the computer motherboard’s IDE connector. Such a strategy not only calls for a lot of risk, but leaves the second issue unsolved. Copy protection is a complex system, especially if it uses hardware measures as in a gaming system. The only way to override it is to disable through the BIOS, which is not possible with current protective measures. Modchips present the perfect solution to this problem.
Media Attention
Gaming mods have received international attention, mainly due to their growing popularity. Companies have finally taken legal action against individuals selling, distributing and offering services regarding modded consoles. The problem has got to the point where businesses are spending millions in legal fees to get the case settled. Across the world there have been thousands of gaming mod related arrests. Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo have all teamed up, sporting the slogan, “Selling modded consoles; Get Arrested!”
The Lik Sang Files
One high profile arrest has been that of Lik Sang games, a company based in Hong Kong. Many years Lik Sang has been offering quality sales and service of gaming mods on a large scale. It is a major source of the world’s mods. In a tense court case, Lik Sang has been found guilty and forced to pay a large fine as well as some of its members put in jail. This goes as a warning that modchips are a serious matter. Lik Sang lawyers argue “Its just a modchip, not a weapon or drug!” Supporters agree, “Is it illegal to sell a heavily modded car? Then why is it illegal to sell modified consoles?” The modchips were only part of the charge, as lpreoaded onto swapped hardrives were numerous pirated games. Lik Sang is still in business, but no longer carries modchips. Another case involved three men in Los Angeles who owned a store by the name of ACME games. Undercover customs officers were able to purchase a modded Xbox preloaded with 77 pirated games for a meager $265. Countless other chippers have been busted. In other parts of the world, modchips have had unusually positive attention. Italy, Spain, and Australia have deemed console chipping legal. "There is no copyright reason why the purchaser should not be entitled to copy the CD-ROM and modify the console in such a way as to enjoy his or her lawfully acquired property without inhibition." Stated the Australian court, criticizing Sony.
Hard Times in the Future
Ever since the Xbox had been released, modding has been a threat to console manufactures. This time, many are learning from previous mistakes, taking affirmative action to make it much more difficult for any modifications to occur. Microsoft’s new Xbox 360 for example, features a screw free case, bound together one way. This way, one cannot easily open it to install an internal mod. To do this, a hole will have to be drilled in the case. If something goes wrong, warranty is certainly not an option. Similar measures have been taken with other next-gen consoles. People would probably avoid modding an expensive next gen console anyway. Still, modders are working on developing chips for every console out there. This just proves the power of the BIOS.
FAQ
Q: Can Windows XP be installed on a modded Xbox? A: No, consoles run on a completely different file system compared to computers, therefore cannot execute such operating system. On could though, put the Linux operating system on, then emulate a Microsoft OS through virtual machines, but such would be extremely slow and hard to navigate. Linux is the most adapted operating systems, put on to all kinds of hardware from iPODs to cellphones, and of course, PCs. From Linux, it is possible to emulate all other operating systems including Windows and MAC OS. This would be very slow, considering its obsolete 64mb ram and slow 733mhz processor.
Q: Do computer programs work on modded consoles? A: No, consoles have a completely different file system. Xbox for example end in .xbe instead of .exe