Xecuter 3

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Xecuter 3 is a fourth-generation modchip for the Microsoft Xbox game console designed by Team Xecuter.

One of the more feature-rich chips, it contains 2 megabytes of flash memory, and when used with the X3 BIOS (not included), allows for remarkably easy set up of a modded Xbox and installation of a larger hard drive. Initially flashing the chip with a BIOS, which usually requires the use of an external programmer connected to a PC, is simplified by the network flash feature built into the included Linux-based FlashBIOS. When the Xbox is connected to a LAN and the feature is activated, it runs an HTTP server which allows the user to simply point a web browser to the Xbox's IP address and provide a BIOS image file.

Furthermore, with some chips, an auto-install CD is usually needed to format the hard drive to FATX and partition it, as well as install a dashboard. This could be complicated by the fact that early Xbox models with Thomson DVD drives are often not able to read non-Xbox DVDs very well. The Xecuter 3 BIOS can format and partition the hard drive, and also contains an FTP server, allowing access to the drive without having a dashboard installed, making the process of installing a dashboard or other software such as Xbox Media Center or Linux much simpler. The chip also has an onboard 256k backup ROM containing the FlashBIOS BIOS should a problem occur within the main banks of the flash.

There are actually two versions of the chip, the original Xecuter 3, and the Xecuter 3 CE. Functionally they are identical, the only difference being in the PCB design.

Xecuter 3 (original) photo

Limitations of the chip: Some of the chip's limitations can be pretty dire for Xbox owners who are addicted to the online gaming zone Xbox Live. This is because you are unable to connect to Xbox Live while using the chip because Microsoft is able to detect new hardware installed in your Xbox, thus resulting in a permanent block from Xbox Live. The chip can be disabled, but this prevents the user from using modified content with or against online players. However, there is an alternative. Many modders who want to use their mods online or play illegally pirated or legally backed up copies of games online choose to use one of two popular programs which allow a user to play with other modders over the internet. These programs, known as XLink Kai and XBConnect, are free unlike Xbox Live.