The X-Box Media Centre Project
For a while I’ve wanted to build a media centre - basically a PC with a TV out card that I can use to download and store video and music, and playback directly to my TV (which is linked to my stereo). No more watching downloaded shows on my crappy laptop screen with crappy laptop speakers, just switch the telly over and bang!
Problem: a PC is bulky and ugly, my laptop is buggered, and TV out cards cost at least $50 (and probably aren’t compatible with my old PIII motherboard).
Solution: convert an old X-Box!
Goodies - an X-Box, and a cheap USB hub
Today I purchased an X-Box (from eBay) for $91, and a crappy 4 port USB hub for $12. I will modify the USB hub so that it plugs directly into a controller port, enabling me to use my USB mouse and Keyboard with the X-Box. Then all that remains is to override the write protection on the BIOS, flash in a new non-Microsoft BIOS, and install Linux!
At the moment I’m only missing one key piece of equipment: the game MechAssault. It contains a software exploit which enables you to load an emergency linux system hidden inside a save game file, from which the BIOS can be flashed. Will head down to the mall and see if I can trade in Brute Force, the game that came with the X-Box.
Updates and photos to come!
July 18, 2007 5:32 pm 
