Xbox 360 3 Red Light Error - 5 Easy Tips

Microsoft's latest Xbox 360 features a new motherboard and a new graphics chip that ought to put out less heat than the older chip design. Whether this new generation of Xboxes has eliminated the ring of death fault is still an open question. Only time and plenty of use by the world's consumers under lots of different conditions will decide the verdict.

For those of us who still have the older Xboxes, the ring of death and other heat related problems are still a fact of life.

This article will discuss a few troubleshooting tips that you can try before sending your Xbox off for repair.

1.) This first suggestion is pretty lame but this article isn't complete without it: Restart the console.

2.) If this doesn't do anything, then perhaps the trouble may be a cable or cord that's come loose. First, disconnect all power cords and cables that are detachable from the Xbox. Then unplug the power cable from the wall outlet.

Now the cords and cables should be reconnected to your Xbox. Plug the power cord back into the wall and turn on your Xbox.

3.) If this doesn't help, turn off the console, unplug the power cord, and detach the hard drive. Plug the power cord back in and power up the console. If you don't see any red lights, turn off the console and disconnect the power cable. Finally, put in the hard drive, plug the power cord back into the wall, and switch the console on.

4.) The power cord contacts have been known to heat up and melt. This has happened to Xboxes that were played over very long periods of time (about 12 continuous hours). This usually happened when the Xbox had an intercooler.

The contacts should be checked for heat damage. Sometimes the Xbox operates just fine when you pull up on the power cable. But the red ring of death error lights turn on when you pull down on the power cord. Get another power cord if this is your problem.

5.) If your console has been heating up, then give your Xbox an occasional rest so that it can cool off. Keep the cooling vents clear of obstructions and use your Xbox in open and well ventilated areas. Be careful that there are no sources of heat next to the Xbox.

Vacuum any dust buildup that you find inside the console. Place a small fan near your console to keep it cool. Remember that the power brick has to stay cool, so keep it off of soft material such as shag carpeting.

It too should be in an uncluttered area that has ventilation. You may want to try hanging the power brick from its cord using a hook.

So these are your troubleshooting options for the red ring of death that won't demand any repair work. If your problems were still not solved, the next step is to use your warranty or have your console repaired. Remember, the warranty is void if the console is opened for any reason.

By: Marc Sandford

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Marc Sandford is a gaming enthusiast and writer. Get more Xbox troubleshooting information about fixing the Red Ring of Death.