DVD Server using XBOX Media Center (XBMC), DVD Profiler, and IMDB (Pictures galore) [Text View] - Page 15

krkaufman

07-01-08, 12:02 AM

What are the list of remotes that work well with an XBox XBMC in the following sub categories:

- Cheapest remote that works well enough?
- Value for Money Remote?
- The BEST remote for XBMC?
- The best Universal Remote easily configurable for XBMC?

Do any / all of the remotes need something additional on the XBox for use? Some kind of DVD package add on? Which remote should I get/ look out for?
Yes, you'll want/need the IR dongle that comes with the DVD Playback kit *or* with the Xbox Media Center Extender, no matter which remote you finally settle on. I'd recommend buying one of the Xbox Media Center Extender kits off eBay... to get the IR dongle and a considerably better remote than the standard Xbox remote.

After that, if the Extender remote doesn't meet your needs and you want a Universal, the sky's the limit. Personally, I've been happy with my $15 One-for-All URC-6131 (controls TV,DVD,Sony receiver, ReplayTV, Xbox)... but they're not sold anymore.

NotTheSmartest

07-01-08, 07:09 AM

Same thing I was going to say. Just google for ... T3CH XBMC... and you should find a site with downloadable RARs of his latest XBMC builds... with the most recent build being last night, 6-30.
Wow! Thanks for the suggestion/s, guys. I'm at work and so can't try upgrading yet. What I was wondering, though, is how to get any downloaded T3ECH stuff onto my XBox. Do I burn off a disc? (stupid question, I'm sure!).

Also, I seem to remember seeing an option on XBMC to automatically download the
T3CH thing, but I can't remember where/how I found that. I'll have a go when I get home, and check back with you guys, hopefully to big you up!

Elephanthead

07-01-08, 08:45 AM

topperdude

07-01-08, 12:42 PM

Also, I seem to remember seeing an option on XBMC to automatically download the
T3CH thing, but I can't remember where/how I found that. I'll have a go when I get home, and check back with you guys, hopefully to big you up!

What you may have read about is the T3CH upgrader script (http://xbmc.org/forum/showthread.php?t=29329). Once you install XBMC on your Xbox, you can install different scripts (e.g. Apple Movie Trailer which as the name suggests lets you watch movie trailers directly from Apple's website). You can also install the T3CH upgrader script, the goal of which is to automatically download and install a new T3CH build when it is available without going through the process of downloading the build onto a PC first, uncompressing it and FTP-ing it to the Xbox. I have not tried this script myself so I cant say how well it works. I would suggest you atleast go through the thread linked above to get more information and decide for yourself how comfortable you feel using it. You could even post any specific questions you have about that script in that thread and someone with more hands-on experience with the script could help you.

Good luck,
-Topper

crashnburn_in

07-01-08, 01:09 PM

You connect to the xbox using FTP. Either plug the xbox into your network, or use a crossover cable directly to a pc. Then just upload the files. You need an xbox running an FTP server first, that is step one with the memory card exploit and new bios install, and new OS install.

That is where I see too many alternative paths and I'm not getting a clear direction.

Well I didn't solder anything, I took a controller [The Xbox Controller?], cut the wire in half with a knife[I'd rather not cut my controller cable. What if I mess it up?], did the same with a USB cable extension[??? USB Cable extension? Is this an ordinary USB Cable - One end Laptop USB (flatish) other Desktop USB (squarish)], or an old usb mouse, or whatever you have [Is this the Flatish USB simply exposed and connected to the Xbox Controller? Allowing the Controller to connect to a machine via USB without a memory card. I guess I have to open the controller?? Is there a way to do this without having any physical damage to the Controller or its cable], stripped the wires, attached the usb wires to the controller, plugged controller into PC, installed the drivers [Which drivers? The Action Replay - Should I install them on the machine before or after] for the controller without a memory card inserted as prompted by windows, (had to download the drivers first), then inserted the memory card into the controller [Which memory card??], and pointed the driver install to the driver folder created by the action replay install of the downloaded software.

Is there a more clear set of instructions on this? I am confused. Very very.. confused.

http://www.ShareCow.com/Download.aspx?request=9351a5bd-95ce-484c-a50f-b7a832b8e31b

the above link will get you the drivers and the action replay install

I can get the software / drivers. I am not clear what hardware I need.

Elephanthead

07-01-08, 02:19 PM

You need, an xbox, working, you need a Microsoft memory card that fits inside of the xbox controller memory card slot, you need a splinter cell game or alternative, you also need either a xbox to usb cable, or an action replay, or an xbox controller, a usb cable and a knife. This assumes you are softmodding the xbox using the linux exploit. You will also need a cat5 network cable to connect the xbox to your network. I bought everything I needed from gamestop except the usb cable I happened to have a box of them doing nothing.

Step one, put the saved games you need to use on the memory card, (This requires the memory card, the action replay software, and a controller connected to a pc or an action replay)

Step two, copy saved games to xbox using xbox

Step three, follow instruction from links found everywhere

Step 4 FTP XBMC to the xbox

Step 5, Profit!

Ja Phule

07-01-08, 04:37 PM

topperdude

07-01-08, 04:51 PM

Once anyone has a modded xbox, its really easy to get the game exploit on a memory card for someone to who needs to do a softmod. If people want to send me their memory card, I'll be happy to put the game save on it for them.

I actually have an extra memory card and extra mechassault game that I can lend out... if people reading this know what I mean. :)

Ja - How would I copy the game save from my existing/softmodded Xbox onto the memory card? As I mentioned in one of my previous posts, I purchased an Xbox with XBMC already installed on it by the previous owner and would like to get the game save on the memory card for modding the second Xbox I plan to get for the bedroom. :)

Also, I wonder how I can go to the root DVD menu when I am playing back a regular DVD from the Xbox drive. I am using the Game Console with DVD profile from the harmony database and when I click Menu on it, it takes me to XBMC screen with the movie playing in the lower left corner.

Thanks,
-Topper

Ja Phule

07-01-08, 08:02 PM

Ja - How would I copy the game save from my existing/softmodded Xbox onto the memory card? As I mentioned in one of my previous posts, I purchased an Xbox with XBMC already installed on it by the previous owner and would like to get the game save on the memory card for modding the second Xbox I plan to get for the bedroom. :)

Also, I wonder how I can go to the root DVD menu when I am playing back a regular DVD from the Xbox drive. I am using the Game Console with DVD profile from the harmony database and when I click Menu on it, it takes me to XBMC screen with the movie playing in the lower left corner.

Thanks,
-Topper

Once you get the exploit downloaded on your pc, you can ftp it to your xbox. Then transfer it from your xbox to your memory card. This can all be done in the xbmc file manager. You can also ftp the gamesave into the udata (or was it tdata, i forget) folder and the original xbox dashboard should see it and you can use the dashboard to copy it over also.

You can modify the keymap.xml file in xbmc to take you to the dvd menu. What you can do is turn remote commands in xbmc so that you can see what command is being sent to xbmc when you press a button, you will need to create/put this option in advancedsettings.xml IIRC. Once you know the command, you can add it in to the keymap.xml. The steps to do all of this should be in the xbmc wiki.

crashnburn_in

07-02-08, 02:14 AM

I found those Xbox USB to USB Female cables on Ebay that I can use with a USB Flash Memory Stick

I have Splinter Cell & MechAssault original games.

I turned on the XBox and apparently there are some games saved inside it (I wouldnt know how to verify that.) Some Splinter Cell & MechAssault.

Thoughts?

bswiz

07-02-08, 12:51 PM

I used this cable: http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-2b-49-en-70-1xz.html and a regular USB flash drive.

I followed the guide here for how to install the proper drivers and Action Replay SW:
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/578329

And this one explains how to do the actual softmod:
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/558747

Hope this helps!

crashnburn_in

07-02-08, 02:12 PM

Stryker412

07-02-08, 02:28 PM

I used this guide with much success.

http://lifehacker.com/software/geek-to-live/transform-your-classic-xbox-into-a-killer-media-center-299809.php

transic

07-02-08, 06:53 PM

For those of you still hanging onto the PMIII skin, I suggest that you might wish to migrate to Aeon now. I tried Aeon around beta4-6ish and thought it was pretty looking, but a total mess since you couldn't even get movie information. I tried it again recently for beta 10 and I am totally hooked and converted. Beta 11b is even better, pick it up here: http://www.aeoncentral.com/

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/1760/screenshot019aa0.jpg

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/4182/screenshot020ll3.jpg

http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/7456/screenshot021xj6.jpg

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/9756/screenshot022ls3.jpg

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/4084/screenshot026sw4.jpg

transic

07-02-08, 06:59 PM

One of the biggest changes is the new "showcase view," which has some really cool new features, like fan art. It's not shown below since I haven't added any to my movies (not automatic), but tv shows will do it automatically from the tvdb.

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/6677/screenshot024ua8.jpg

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/9553/screenshot025ng5.jpg

This is what it looks like when you manually add it to movie (this is automaticlly done via tv view):

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/4634/aeonmoviefanart10cj2.jpg

http://img77.imageshack.us/img77/1430/aeonmoviefanart13xs6.jpg

One my favorite features is the fact you can turn off specific views in both file and library mode. For example, in file mode, I only have list view enabled, while in library mode I have all 4 views active -- a real time saver for many of us who only like to have specific views enabled both in file and library mode, but also different in tv, music, etc..

After using Aeon for a bit, PMIII will feel very clunky when you have to use it to update Aeon ;)

crashnburn_in

07-03-08, 01:23 AM

Might I say... Sweet.

bswiz

07-03-08, 09:09 AM

crashnburn_in

07-04-08, 07:16 PM

I've not tried hooking up my Xbox controller with one of these cables/adaptors. The article mentions a couple uses for it, none of which I'm interested in (Xbox headset, memory cards, etc).

I think you are aware - but the cable I linked to earlier and the one in this article you linked are different things. One lets you hook up a memory stick to your Xbox, the other lets you hook up your Xbox controller to a USB port on a PC. I almost ordered the wrong one before I realized what was what.

I know they are 2 different kinds.

I already ordered the XBox USB to USB Female Cable. This allows ordinary USB devices to be connected to XBox.

I am wondering if I should buy the other type I described. The one that is opposite: Allows XBox Controller to connect with a PC via USB.

jjchambers

07-07-08, 09:36 AM

sean_w_smith

07-07-08, 11:32 AM

So I recently picked up a Nokia N800. I then found out there was a web interface for xbmc and also found the Ajax one. I've installed the Ajaz one and tried both. They are both pretty cool but I find myself using the internet radio script more than my own CD's. Is there a way to access the scripts (specifically the iTunes radio script) thru the web interface? If not would it be easy to hack certain files to change this. If someone could at least point me to which file displays the web page so I could mess around with that, maybe make it fit my N800's screen better, that would be great.

Thanks,

J

J

Check the wiki for info on the API etc... there have been some custom web skins built for things like PSP and iPhone. The old ajax skin is the only one I have seen that will let you fully control XBMC including scripts from remote. The default one does not. If the internet radio stations are just .strm files then put them in the playlists folder and you can play internet radio using the stock skin. As always... the wiki has lots of info there on customizing etc....

some more info here...
http://www.internettablettalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10240

Sean

bswiz

07-07-08, 12:23 PM

What about podcasts on XBMC? Is there any way to directly access or download them from the XBMC interface? Obviously you can download them to your PC and then share the files to XBMC, but I'm wondering if there might be a "slick" way to do it all from the Xbox... even if it meant putting the feeds into a config file and then playing the latest podcast in each feed or something like that?

jjchambers

07-07-08, 06:32 PM

J

Check the wiki for info on the API etc... there have been some custom web skins built for things like PSP and iPhone. The old ajax skin is the only one I have seen that will let you fully control XBMC including scripts from remote. The default one does not. If the internet radio stations are just .strm files then put them in the playlists folder and you can play internet radio using the stock skin. As always... the wiki has lots of info there on customizing etc....

some more info here...
http://www.internettablettalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10240

Sean

Do you happen to know where I can get an old version of the old ajax skin. I have the latest one and it really doesn't work that well. the xbmc default one works better. I'm looking now on how to add the internet readio stream to my playlist. Anyidea on where to find the .strm files?

Thanks,

J

sean_w_smith

07-07-08, 10:08 PM

Do you happen to know where I can get an old version of the old ajax skin. I have the latest one and it really doesn't work that well. the xbmc default one works better. I'm looking now on how to add the internet readio stream to my playlist. Anyidea on where to find the .strm files?

Thanks,

J

There are several versions on the ajax skin website but beta 3 works the best (the latest). It never worked very well before the developer abandoned it to work on something else... ( I think a native PSP web server)

google is your friend if you want to find it.

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-07-08, 10:09 PM

Do you happen to know where I can get an old version of the old ajax skin. I have the latest one and it really doesn't work that well. the xbmc default one works better. I'm looking now on how to add the internet readio stream to my playlist. Anyidea on where to find the .strm files?

Thanks,

J

on internet radio thats super easy.... Have you read the online wiki. It has good docs on this stuff as well as MOST features in XBMC......

Sean1

jjchambers

07-08-08, 07:35 AM

on internet radio thats super easy.... Have you read the online wiki. It has good docs on this stuff as well as MOST features in XBMC......
Sean1

I was reading that yesterday as you replied. I tried the option of creating a .txt file, put in a streaming link and rename to .strm. Put it in my music folder, it showed up, but when I clicked on it, it appeared to try and open but never did. I didn't have a chance to try anymore, maybe I just picked a bad station to try. I really want to have that entire list that the itunes radio script has. I want to be able to pick a genre and then a station.... there were like 20 or so stations for each genre. I haven't done extensive searching yet, but anyone know where I can find the list of those station, particularly their streaming address so I can just copy it into a file.

There are several versions on the ajax skin website but beta 3 works the best (the latest). It never worked very well before the developer abandoned it to work on something else... ( I think a native PSP web server) google is your friend if you want to find it.
Sean

I have the beta 3 installed and it keeps crashing my xbox. When I exit the program, my xbox starts working again. Anyway, has anyone made a program with nice BIG buttons I can use? I did try the PSP one but I either messed something up or it didn't work.

I did read thru the HTTP API section and was controlling the xbox with command send on the address bar. I guess I just need a program that I can design custom screens and buttons for the Nokia N800 and define that if you push this button, send this http command. Anyone know if there is something free like that? Is netremote what I'm looking for, I plan on looking into that more today if I have time.

Thanks,

J

Ja Phule

07-08-08, 02:04 PM

I was reading that yesterday as you replied. I tried the option of creating a .txt file, put in a streaming link and rename to .strm. Put it in my music folder, it showed up, but when I clicked on it, it appeared to try and open but never did. I didn't have a chance to try anymore, maybe I just picked a bad station to try. I really want to have that entire list that the itunes radio script has. I want to be able to pick a genre and then a station.... there were like 20 or so stations for each genre. I haven't done extensive searching yet, but anyone know where I can find the list of those station, particularly their streaming address so I can just copy it into a file.

I have the beta 3 installed and it keeps crashing my xbox. When I exit the program, my xbox starts working again. Anyway, has anyone made a program with nice BIG buttons I can use? I did try the PSP one but I either messed something up or it didn't work.

I did read thru the HTTP API section and was controlling the xbox with command send on the address bar. I guess I just need a program that I can design custom screens and buttons for the Nokia N800 and define that if you push this button, send this http command. Anyone know if there is something free like that? Is netremote what I'm looking for, I plan on looking into that more today if I have time.

Thanks,

J

Have you tried Shoutcast on XBMC? XBMC has built in support for Shoutcast, there are tons of genres/stations to choose from.

jjchambers

07-08-08, 02:19 PM

Have you tried Shoutcast on XBMC? XBMC has built in support for Shoutcast, there are tons of genres/stations to choose from.

I remember seeing it listed in my scripts but I deleted it because i could never get it to work. I really like that itune radio script. Do you think I could just copy that script into my music share and it would work?? I may try that tonight.

I really just want to be able to access that itunes script thru any web page so I don't have to turn on my projector to pick the internet radio stream.

J

Ja Phule

07-08-08, 05:24 PM

I remember seeing it listed in my scripts but I deleted it because i could never get it to work. I really like that itune radio script. Do you think I could just copy that script into my music share and it would work?? I may try that tonight.

I really just want to be able to access that itunes script thru any web page so I don't have to turn on my projector to pick the internet radio stream.

J

Shoutcast should be available in your music section, you may need to add it as a new source. I wish I can help with the Itunes script but I've never used it.

sean_w_smith

07-08-08, 06:27 PM

I remember seeing it listed in my scripts but I deleted it because i could never get it to work. I really like that itune radio script. Do you think I could just copy that script into my music share and it would work?? I may try that tonight.

I really just want to be able to access that itunes script thru any web page so I don't have to turn on my projector to pick the internet radio stream.

J

Can't say I listen to itunes radio but I listen to WWOZ, RadioIO, Frisky Radio and shoutcast very easily....

Sean

dan4081

07-08-08, 10:57 PM

I went to Gamestop and picked up an xbox for $59 today. I also ordered the 'action replay' cable from ebay. As soon as it gets here I will tackle this.

Is this the default xbmc skin in this video? Is this what I can expect my xbox to look/work like?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8amNvWnGrew&feature=related

Thanks for all the helpfull posts in this thread!

Ja Phule

07-09-08, 01:17 AM

dan4081

07-09-08, 09:27 AM

Yes and yes. Feel free to let us know what you think once you get your xbox up and running. Feel free to post if you have any problems or additional questions.

Here's a video of XBMC using the Aeon skin from the screenshots above.
http://www.vimeo.com/1247035?pg=embed&sec=1247035

I'm sure I will be back here driving you guys crazy with questions once I get into this. I already have read every page in this thread!
I hope the action replay cable gets here before the weekend. If it does then I know what I'll be working on all weekend!

sean_w_smith

07-09-08, 12:25 PM

Shoutcast should be available in your music section, you may need to add it as a new source. I wish I can help with the Itunes script but I've never used it.

Here's an example of whats in my sources.xml file for music. Notice it contains shoutcast, last fm and a way to access the library mode from file mode. You might ask why the later is interesting. Its interesting because without this there is no way to access the music DB from the web interface.


<music>
<default>My Music on DMI</default>
<source>
<name>My Music on DMI</name>
<path>smb://DMI/Media/Music/</path>
</source>
<source>
<name>Browse Network</name>
<path>smb://</path>
</source>
<source>
<name>DVD-ROM Drive</name>
<path>D:\</path>
</source>
<source>
<name>Playlists</name>
<path>$MUSICPLAYLISTS</path>
</source>
<source>
<name>SHOUTcast - Directory</name>
<path>shout://www.shoutcast.com/sbin/newxml.phtml</path>




</source>
<source>
<name>Last.FM</name>
<path>lastfm://</path>
</source>
<source>
<name>Library View</name>
<path>musicdb://</path>
</source>

</music>

more info on this stuff here...

http://xbmc.org/wiki/?title=Types_of_Media_Sources

Attached is a zip file with a sample of some of the Streaming Radio I listen to in XBMC....
Sean

bswiz

07-09-08, 01:16 PM

Here's an example of whats in my sources.xml file for music. Notice it contains shoutcast, last fm and a way to access the library mode from file mode. You might ask why the later is interesting. Its interesting because without this there is no way to access the music DB from the web interface.
(snip)

Attached is a zip file with a sample of some of the Streaming Radio I listen to in XBMC....
Sean

Sean -

How do you connect to RadioIO? I don't see those in your sources.xml .

Thanks!

sean_w_smith

07-09-08, 01:23 PM

Sean -

How do you connect to RadioIO? I don't see those in your sources.xml .

Thanks!

With the .strm files I created. There are in the music.zip attachment on the previous post not in the sources.xml ....

Basically I just cut and pasted the URL's from windows media player to create these streams. These are all 128K stream files...

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-09-08, 03:26 PM

BTW: on podcasts for XBMC there appear to be several scripts with take an XML RSS feed and pull the content down for your viewing/listening.

Check out. http://www.xbmcscripts.com/

Xpodder is one of them but there appear to be several scripts to do this...

Sean

bswiz

07-09-08, 04:24 PM

With the .strm files I created. There are in the music.zip attachment on the previous post not in the sources.xml ....

Basically I just cut and pasted the URL's from windows media player to create these streams. These are all 128K stream files...

Sean

Sorry, maybe I didn't ask that clearly. I saw the files in the zip, but how do you get XBMC to use them? I would think you would need to paste each of those URL's into the music section of sources.xml . Or is that what the "playlists" section is used for somehow?

Thanks again!

sean_w_smith

07-09-08, 05:22 PM

Sorry, maybe I didn't ask that clearly. I saw the files in the zip, but how do you get XBMC to use them? I would think you would need to paste each of those URL's into the music section of sources.xml . Or is that what the "playlists" section is used for somehow?

Thanks again!

put the contents of the zip file into

XMBC\userdata\playlists\music

Sean

jjchambers

07-09-08, 10:08 PM

Shoutcast should be available in your music section, you may need to add it as a new source. I wish I can help with the Itunes script but I've never used it.

THANK YOU!! I never even looked to add it that way, but sure enough there it was and it has tons of available stations (more than the itunes script) This is exactly what I was looking for!

One problem, if I change to a different station thru the xbmc webbrowser on my Nokia N800 it seems to crash the xbox and I have to physically turn it off and on, but if I change stations from my desktop I have no problems. Any ideas?

Next item I'm looking for: A web interface for xbmc that has BIG buttons and fits the N800's screen. Something like Canola2 for those of you using an N8x0 or N770.

Thanks

dan4081

07-10-08, 10:02 AM

Did the soft mod last night. Instead of waiting for the action replay cable I made my own and used a thumb drive. Because of some issues with the tutorial I used and a big problem getting the ftp to work, then having the wrong version of a game for the hack, it took me all night to do. (Bet I could do the next one in 20 minutes though.)

Have to say once its modded and xbmc is loaded that it was very easy from there. I shared my folder for videos and it recognized instantly, gave me dvd cover art and played perfectly. The interface is amazing.

Next step is to start burning dvd's to my hard drives and share my pictures and music folders.

Edit: I could easily see me having one of these in each room of the house!!!!

Bluetone

07-10-08, 10:57 AM

New to this...

I have a lot of media on a fairly powerful ubuntu server in a closet. It has all kinds of media on it that would choke the xbox's processor. From the wiki, it seems that I can get a transcoding UPNP server and present xbox playable media on my network while not having to downconvert the media ahead of time. Do I understand this right? I can use the horsepower on my linux server to downconvert/re-encode the media in realtime while the xbox just sees media of a playable format/resolution on the network? Does anyone have experience to share with this and a free and stable software package to recommend to do it?

Ja Phule

07-10-08, 01:11 PM

I could easily see me having one of these in each room of the house!!!!

It's mandatory to have one in every room with a tv in my place. :)

bswiz

07-10-08, 01:43 PM

I'd love to add a 2nd one for our bedroom, but the cost ends up being more than I expected. I got the first Xbox for $50 from a friend, then you add the DVD remote kit ($10 or so), maybe a bigger hard drive, and some kind of wireless bridge, and you're looking at $100 or so easy. Plus the AV pack if you need that (my friend included it for the $50). I'd love to add the XIR, but that is another $25 just for power on functionality.

There are tons of streaming devices coming out for under $200 that can also do HD.

From what I've seen, the interface of XBMC is unbeatable. It truly amazes me that the developers have done for free what seemingly none of these big companies can do - deliver a product that both looks and works great.

I love my XBMC but if I were someone not into the tech-y aspects of it, I think I would just get a Popcorn Hour or TVIX or whatever and be done with it.

dan4081

07-10-08, 01:55 PM

I'd love to add a 2nd one for our bedroom, but the cost ends up being more than I expected. I got the first Xbox for $50 from a friend, then you add the DVD remote kit ($10 or so), maybe a bigger hard drive, and some kind of wireless bridge, and you're looking at $100 or so easy. Plus the AV pack if you need that (my friend included it for the $50). I'd love to add the XIR, but that is another $25 just for power on functionality.
---snipped---.

All good points, but I should be able to build my next one for less then $100.
$59 for xbox (Gamestop)
$10 for remote kit (Ebay)
$15 for Hi-Def Pack (Ebay)

I have network cables in each room of my house, so no need for wireless.

Cant see any reason to change the hard drive as I store everything on my main computer.

bswiz

07-10-08, 03:27 PM

All good points, but I should be able to build my next one for less then $100.
$59 for xbox (Gamestop)
$10 for remote kit (Ebay)
$15 for Hi-Def Pack (Ebay)

I have network cables in each room of my house, so no need for wireless.

Cant see any reason to change the hard drive as I store everything on my main computer.

True, the hard drive and wireless aren't necessarily required depending on your wants/needs. I got a bigger hard drive that actually hasn't worked out for me... So I have an extra 320GB drive for the moment.

dan4081

07-10-08, 04:48 PM

Looks like some problems for me. Just got home and turned it on and the controller will not do anything. Seems like its dead, or the xbox doesnt recognize it. Any suggestions or ideas?

dan4081

07-10-08, 05:41 PM

Nevermind the last post....bad controller!

CDLehner

07-10-08, 05:58 PM

I'm a digital media and PS guy (3, and 2 before that), but I've been hearing for so long now just how good XBMC is that I have decided to throw my hat in and try a mod. I only decided to tackle it because I'd heard, in another thread, that it was pretty easy, but don't these 119 pages of posts suggest otherwise?

I've been reading through this guide http://www.productwiki.com/microsoft-xbox/article/how-to-go-from-xbox-to-xbox-media-center-in-30-minutes.html. I guess maybe it'll make more sense once I have my box in hand (should be here this weekend), or can anyone suggest another guide that is the drop-dead easiest and most complete? Or am I looking at 119 pages of reading?

Dumb, noobie question #1: if you choose to make a usb controller adapter, does that eliminate the need to buy the Xbox Action Replay (and save you that $30)?

Thanks,

CD

dan4081

07-10-08, 06:13 PM

Dumb, noobie question #1: if you choose to make a usb controller adapter, does that eliminate the need to buy the Xbox Action Replay (and save you that $30)?

Thanks,

CD

Yes...thats how I did mine.

Ja Phule

07-10-08, 06:18 PM

sean_w_smith

07-10-08, 06:30 PM

transic

07-10-08, 08:50 PM

Ja Phule

07-10-08, 09:18 PM

I upped my thumbnail size in advanced settings to get higher res movie posters, but I can only update the thumbnails one at a time by going into the movie information screen. Any ideas on how to do a mass thumbnail update? I tried to remove the UserData > Thumbnails > Movies folder completely, but it ended up freezing xbmc on startup. Any ideas?

Go to file mode in your video settings, set the content of your movie folder to none, this will remove the thumbs and movie info from your userdata. Then go back and set the content back to movies and make sure your thumbnail setting is set to a larger size when you set it again.

transic

07-10-08, 09:35 PM

Go to file mode in your video settings, set the content of your movie folder to none, this will remove the thumbs and movie info from your userdata. Then go back and set the content back to movies and make sure your thumbnail setting is set to a larger size when you set it again.

I was afraid of that. The problem is I have a lot of thumbnails that I added manually (not on the movie drive, but with get thumb) which is stupid in retrospect, so I'll wait until I have a few hours to kill sometime to fix it.

dan4081

07-10-08, 09:55 PM

I think they have...
http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/4047/testcb2.th.jpg (http://img107.imageshack.us/my.php?image=testcb2.jpg)

http://www.xboxmediacenter.com/forum/showthread.php?t=29929

2 quick questions.

1) I have the download of 6/30 and I dont see any 3-D view under video options.
2) Whenever I go to 'Videos', I have to click on 'video', then 'movies', then 'title', then I see my list of movies. Is there any way to just click 'Videos' and go right to a view of movies to choose from?
3)If I click on library mode it shows my movies but there is a big arrow to go back to root folder. Is there anyway to get rid of that arrow?

Thanks

Ja Phule

07-10-08, 11:58 PM

2 quick questions.

1) I have the download of 6/30 and I dont see any 3-D view under video options.
2) Whenever I go to 'Videos', I have to click on 'video', then 'movies', then 'title', then I see my list of movies. Is there any way to just click 'Videos' and go right to a view of movies to choose from?
3)If I click on library mode it shows my movies but there is a big arrow to go back to root folder. Is there anyway to get rid of that arrow?

Thanks

I see 3 quick questions. :)

1) 3D view was never made to be an official view in the PM3 skin. Other skins do incorporate a similar 3d Cover Flow view. xTV and FOCUS skins have this view.

2) Hover over the "title" option and press the white button, then choose Default.

3) There is an option to hide this under Appearance, View Options, Hide Parent Folder Items.

crashnburn_in

07-11-08, 12:23 PM

Thanks bswiz. That tutorial looks much more clear.

One Q - I see these other cables for sale to connect the XBox Controller to the PC and use it as a Game pad for PC Games. Is that the case?

What other ways could it be used? Benefits?

http://www.jameswoodcock.co.uk/?page_id=564

I received the Xbox USB to USB Female Cable. Got the USB Memory stick to work as described on the afterdawn thread. Now I have Unleash X Soft Mod installed.
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/578329
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/558747

I used Unleash as pointed out by the preference of the tutorial author.

Now what next? How do I get it to look like Aeon etc XBMC. An XBMC that is smarter & easier to update, manage. What next? T3H or AID ??

I'd love to add a 2nd one for our bedroom, but the cost ends up being more than I expected. I got the first Xbox for $50 from a friend, then you add the DVD remote kit ($10 or so), maybe a bigger hard drive, and some kind of wireless bridge, and you're looking at $100 or so easy.

Plus the AV pack if you need that (my friend included it for the $50). I'd love to add the XIR, but that is another $25 just for power on functionality.

There are tons of streaming devices coming out for under $200 that can also do HD.

What is the AV Pack? XIR? Got a Link?

From what I've seen, the interface of XBMC is unbeatable. It truly amazes me that the developers have done for free what seemingly none of these big companies can do - deliver a product that both looks and works great.

I love my XBMC but if I were someone not into the tech-y aspects of it, I think I would just get a Popcorn Hour or TVIX or whatever and be done with it.

All good points, but I should be able to build my next one for less then $100.
$59 for xbox (Gamestop)
$10 for remote kit (Ebay)
$15 for Hi-Def Pack (Ebay)

Whats the Hi-Def pack? Same as AV Pack? Different?

I have network cables in each room of my house, so no need for wireless.

Cant see any reason to change the hard drive as I store everything on my main computer.

Thoughts on how to move forward now?

bswiz

07-11-08, 12:35 PM

crash -

If you got UnleashX installed, you can now FTP to the Xbox from a PC on your network. You need to install the XBMC program into E:\Apps . Once you have XBMC running you can install Aeon or other skins in the XBMC skins directory.

Download the latest XBMC from the T3CH website (Google it).

The HD or AV pack is the same - it is used to hook up the Xbox to an HDTV with component cables and includes a digital audio output for hooking up to a receiver. It's optional, but worth the money if you are hooking up to an HDTV.

XIR is a hardware mod that someone developed that allows you to turn on the Xbox with a remote control. Google XIR and it will be the first link!

Hope that helps.

Cocophone

07-11-08, 01:16 PM

I think the HD and AV pack are different.

I have an AV pack and it is S-Video and digital audio.

The HD pack is component video for HD output and digital audio.

If you have an HD tv then get the HD Pack.

I wired my xbox with cat5 instead of wireless bridges.

Also, if your xbox are connected to your network, then you don't need to add bigger hard drives to the xbox. Just store all your media on another computer or NAS that is on your network.

crashnburn_in

07-11-08, 01:18 PM

dan4081

07-11-08, 01:27 PM

bswiz - You and JaPhule are the BEST!

You the man.. :) Your pointer to the AfterDawn tutorial made it CLEAR.

Not that it matters as much.. I saw 2 different tutorials for SoftMods.. and people preferred Unleash and some preferred Evolution. Which ones better? How are they different? Pros / Cons?

PS: I've downloaded the T3H stuff already so its a matter of setting the thing up on the network. BTW - What is this AID (All in One Deluxe package) thats being talked about ? I had downloaded that too.

PPS: Would this work for the HD AV Pack?
http://cgi.*********/XBox-High-Definition-Video-HDTV-AV-Pack-Pak-HD-TV-Cable_W0QQitemZ280243584217QQcmdZViewItem

Dont really understand your past 2 posts.
Do you have the soft mod done to the xbox already? Or do you just have the software loaded on your computer and are getting ready to soft mod the xbox? The softmod is just the first step, the second is loading the xbmc onto the xbox. (Thats where I got confused...I thought the softmod was all I needed to do...)

If you already have the unleash on your xbox, then you need to ftp the xbmc onto your xbox. Like stated above, load it into E/apps.

List what steps you have done so far.

Ja Phule

07-11-08, 02:29 PM

bswiz - You and JaPhule are the BEST!

You the man.. :) Your pointer to the AfterDawn tutorial made it CLEAR.

Not that it matters as much.. I saw 2 different tutorials for SoftMods.. and people preferred Unleash and some preferred Evolution. Which ones better? How are they different? Pros / Cons?

PS: I've downloaded the T3H stuff already so its a matter of setting the thing up on the network. BTW - What is this AID (All in One Deluxe package) thats being talked about ? I had downloaded that too.

PPS: Would this work for the HD AV Pack?
http://cgi.*********/XBox-High-Definition-Video-HDTV-AV-Pack-Pak-HD-TV-Cable_W0QQitemZ280243584217QQcmdZViewItem
Item number: 280243584217 (Since link might not work)
Does the same cable / unit apply for the Xbox 360 Also?

I prefer UnleashX because I usually use its file manager. I didn't play with EvolutionX too long but I remember not being able to get to a file manager.

AID is an installer disc that installs many apps and programs including XBMC (most likely an old version).

I'd avoid most 3rd party component adapters as I have had issues using many of them. Stick with the original MS HD pack or the monster or psyclone component cables. The MS and psyclone cables have an optical output while the monster requires you to get an adapter to use optical. The monster cables are all over ebay.

dan4081

07-11-08, 02:56 PM

Stick with the original MS HD pack or the monster or psyclone component cables. The MS and psyclone cables have an optical output while the monster requires you to get an adapter to use optical. The monster cables are all over ebay.

The only ones I could find with the optical out on ebay were the psyclone cables. The guy has 2 left for anyone interested.

http://item.express.*********/PSYCLONE-COMPONENT-VIDEO-CABLE-XBOX-NIB_W0QQitemZ180249019720QQFROM_MERCHANDISINGZ1QQcmdZExpress Item

dan4081

07-11-08, 07:48 PM

I see 3 quick questions. :)

1) 3D view was never made to be an official view in the PM3 skin. Other skins do incorporate a similar 3d Cover Flow view. xTV and FOCUS skins have this view.

2) Hover over the "title" option and press the white button, then choose Default.

3) There is an option to hide this under Appearance, View Options, Hide Parent Folder Items.

HAHA yep, 3 questions

1) Thanks for the explaination
2) Didnt work-I still have to click 'video', then 'movie', then 'title' then I can see all my videos
3) Worked great!

Thanks for all the help!

sean_w_smith

07-11-08, 09:35 PM

I was afraid of that. The problem is I have a lot of thumbnails that I added manually (not on the movie drive, but with get thumb) which is stupid in retrospect, so I'll wait until I have a few hours to kill sometime to fix it.

If you have to do it manually I recommend fixing the file or directory names so the auto lookup works. Over the years you will end up rescanning and rebuilding so its better to fix the names rather than repeatedly do the manual process. Its quick and easy using your PC and IMDB.com and your favorite file manager....

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-11-08, 09:40 PM

I see 3 quick questions. :)

1) 3D view was never made to be an official view in the PM3 skin. Other skins do incorporate a similar 3d Cover Flow view. xTV and FOCUS skins have this view.

2) Hover over the "title" option and press the white button, then choose Default.

3) There is an option to hide this under Appearance, View Options, Hide Parent Folder Items.

Thanks for the tip2 on #2. I did not know that......

On #1 it depends whether you are in library view of file view. I beleive the coverflow like view is only available in file mode.

IMO Media Info and Media Info2 views are much better anyway....

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-11-08, 09:43 PM

HAHA yep, 3 questions

1) Thanks for the explaination
2) Didnt work-I still have to click 'video', then 'movie', then 'title' then I can see all my videos
3) Worked great!

Thanks for all the help!

I'll try this when I get home and see if it works for me. If you dont want to see the genre title stuff in library mode. Just dont use library mode and then set the default directory in your sources.xml. It sounds like library mode is not to your liking so dont use it. Even it file mode you can select movie info and get all the database info for the movies even though you are not in library mode.

see my sources.xml for music I posted above for an example of setting the default directory.

Sean

dan4081

07-11-08, 10:00 PM

I'll try this when I get home and see if it works for me. If you dont want to see the genre title stuff in library mode. Just dont use library mode and then set the default directory in your sources.xml. It sounds like library mode is not to your liking so dont use it. Even it file mode you can select movie info and get all the database info for the movies even though you are not in library mode.

see my sources.xml for music I posted above for an example of setting the default directory.

Sean

Actually media info and media info 2 are my favorites, I just thought I was maybe missing a feature.

I reall would like to get #2 figured out though. It would be so much nicer if I could click the 'video' button on the xbmc start page and be right at the screen to see my movie collection.

sean_w_smith

07-12-08, 12:04 AM

Actually media info and media info 2 are my favorites, I just thought I was maybe missing a feature.

I reall would like to get #2 figured out though. It would be so much nicer if I could click the 'video' button on the xbmc start page and be right at the screen to see my movie collection.

according to the docs. What JA pointed out should work for #2 but I cant comment until I try it when I return home tommorow and try it on a few different builds...

Sean

topperdude

07-12-08, 12:05 AM

The only ones I could find with the optical out on ebay were the psyclone cables. The guy has 2 left for anyone interested.

http://item.express.*********/PSYCLONE-COMPONENT-VIDEO-CABLE-XBOX-NIB_W0QQitemZ180249019720QQFROM_MERCHANDISINGZ1QQcmdZExpress Item

That (http://item.express.*********/PSYCLONE-COMPONENT-VIDEO-CABLE-XBOX-NIB_W0QQitemZ180249019720QQFROM_MERCHANDISINGZ1QQcmdZExpress Item)seems to be the Xbox 360. You can try this link (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?Product%5FID=17133) and enter your zip code to see if any Gamestop near you has the Advanced AV pack (this is the non-HD version). In the past month I was able to get this pack as well as a couple of the HD packs at a Gamestop in my town. One of the HD AV packs was transferred from another Gamestop in a different town - will try to see if I can find the link on Gamestop's website for the Microsoft HD AV pack.

Good luck,
-Topper

dan4081

07-12-08, 12:09 AM

sean_w_smith

07-12-08, 12:15 AM

Im an idiot........it is for the 360.........just wasted 20 bucks...

you can get the psyclone from amazon for $20

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009X1OPS

used to be $15 but the price went up....

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-12-08, 12:17 AM

or the monster but if you want toslink these end up costing a lot more...

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00005TN7U******sr_1_olp_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1215836164&sr=1-1

Sean

Ja Phule

07-12-08, 03:21 AM

HAHA yep, 3 questions

1) Thanks for the explaination
2) Didnt work-I still have to click 'video', then 'movie', then 'title' then I can see all my videos
3) Worked great!

Thanks for all the help!

2) should work. I tested it before posting it. You must remember that after you set it to default and go back to the main menu, it will take you to the previous view that you had it on before going to the menu. If you restart the xbox after making "title" your default page it should take you straight to it when you access your videos.

Ja Phule

07-12-08, 03:28 AM

I actually bought my psyclone cable off amazon a few months ago. I've also bought the monster cable off ebay recently for some friends. The monster optical audio adapter seemed hard to find for the xbox but I was able to find a seller selling several of them for $5 + 2.50 shipping.

e b a y item number is 220229395503.

One thing I must mention about the monster/psyclone cables....the component connectors are very tight. I'm afraid sometimes that it might pull off my connections on my tv when disconnecting them. But they are very high quality.

crashnburn_in

07-12-08, 05:04 AM

I got the following done so far:

1. SoftMod using Splinter Cell & Memory Card
2. T3CH XBMC Copied to E\Apps
3. Have to RUN it by going into the File Manager, into the folde and then clicking the .XBE file
Is there an easier way to make it RUN on Startup? Or simpler single button click? (I have the XBox IR & Remote)

4. How do I get some of the best apps / skins on this thing? In an easy way?
5. Also I do not have my NAS as yet but I'd like to test some DVD ISOs stored on the an External Drive connected to one of my laptops. I can put the laptop on Hardwire to test it. Should I maybe copy it to the Laptop HDD to test it? Or try both?

I prefer UnleashX because I usually use its file manager. I didn't play with EvolutionX too long but I remember not being able to get to a file manager.

AID is an installer disc that installs many apps and programs including XBMC (most likely an old version).

I'd avoid most 3rd party component adapters as I have had issues using many of them. Stick with the original MS HD pack or the monster or psyclone component cables. The MS and psyclone cables have an optical output while the monster requires you to get an adapter to use optical. The monster cables are all over ebay.

- I have an AID downloaded. Is there anything on it that might be worth installing?

- Which would be the best in terms of overall price for the entire package? Where from should I buy?

The only ones I could find with the optical out on ebay were the psyclone cables. The guy has 2 left for anyone interested.

http://item.express.*********/PSYCLONE-COMPONENT-VIDEO-CABLE-XBOX-NIB_W0QQitemZ180249019720QQFROM_MERCHANDISINGZ1QQcmdZExpress Item

The link is not working. Is this a good one to buy?

I actually bought my psyclone cable off amazon a few months ago. I've also bought the monster cable off ebay recently for some friends. The monster optical audio adapter seemed hard to find for the xbox but I was able to find a seller selling several of them for $5 + 2.50 shipping.

e b a y item number is 220229395503.

One thing I must mention about the monster/psyclone cables....the component connectors are very tight. I'm afraid sometimes that it might pull off my connections on my tv when disconnecting them. But they are very high quality.

Overall which one should I buy? Also, Please do point me to the right vendor.

sean_w_smith

07-12-08, 10:55 AM

I got the following done so far:

1. SoftMod using Splinter Cell & Memory Card
2. T3CH XBMC Copied to E\Apps
3. Have to RUN it by going into the File Manager, into the folde and then clicking the .XBE file
Is there an easier way to make it RUN on Startup? Or simpler single button click? (I have the XBox IR & Remote)

4. How do I get some of the best apps / skins on this thing? In an easy way?
5. Also I do not have my NAS as yet but I'd like to test some DVD ISOs stored on the an External Drive connected to one of my laptops. I can put the laptop on Hardwire to test it. Should I maybe copy it to the Laptop HDD to test it? Or try both?

- I have an AID downloaded. Is there anything on it that might be worth installing?

- Which would be the best in terms of overall price for the entire package? Where from should I buy?

The link is not working. Is this a good one to buy?

Overall which one should I buy? Also, Please do point me to the right vendor.

Buy the psyclone cable its the cheapest that works and it uses a standard toslink cable unlike the monster.

goto amazon.com search on "component xbox psyclone" its the first one on the list $19.95 from Target.com

Essential Xbox tools other than XBMC:

The only one I ever use is DVD2XBOX and thats only for ripping an xbox game to the HD.

maybe some game emulators like Mame etc....

running xbox as a dash is easy....

depending on which softmod you used the instructions may vary but Krayzies boots the file e:\dashboard\default.xbe

you need to create short cut file using one of the shortcut makers (one comes with t3ch install) that points to

e:\apps\xbmc\default.xbe

and then replace the e:\dashboard\default.xbe with this file and then the xbox will boot straight into XBMC.

(verify you have a boot disc working before you do this as f you mess this up you need it to recover). AKA. make sure you can boot your AID disc. (if you do mess it up no need to re-softmod) all you have done is mess up the boot and you just need to fix it.
also read this....

http://xbmc.org/wiki/?title=As_a_Dashboard

xbox will not read your laptop ext HD unlesss its under 8g. connected to a laptop via ethernet is a just fine. I used this for a year before I bought a NAS.

on skins... search back a few pages and you will find info I posted on using tortoise SVN to download all the latest skins and such from the source code repository.....

good luck

gotta run...

Sean

Stryker412

07-12-08, 02:14 PM

Question for everyone. I moved all my media from my HTPC to a locally attached RAID box. How can I move the locations where the xbox looks without screwing things up too badly?

One of the biggest changes is the new "showcase view," which has some really cool new features, like fan art. It's not shown below since I haven't added any to my movies (not automatic), but tv shows will do it automatically from the tvdb.

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/6677/screenshot024ua8.jpg

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/9553/screenshot025ng5.jpg

This is what it looks like when you manually add it to movie (this is automaticlly done via tv view):

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/4634/aeonmoviefanart10cj2.jpg

http://img77.imageshack.us/img77/1430/aeonmoviefanart13xs6.jpg

One my favorite features is the fact you can turn off specific views in both file and library mode. For example, in file mode, I only have list view enabled, while in library mode I have all 4 views active -- a real time saver for many of us who only like to have specific views enabled both in file and library mode, but also different in tv, music, etc..

After using Aeon for a bit, PMIII will feel very clunky when you have to use it to update Aeon ;)

Where else can I get the new version of AEON? It appears the website is suspended.

dan4081

07-12-08, 02:43 PM

2) should work. I tested it before posting it. You must remember that after you set it to default and go back to the main menu, it will take you to the previous view that you had it on before going to the menu. If you restart the xbox after making "title" your default page it should take you straight to it when you access your videos.

That did the trick-I didnt do the restart after the change.

Thanks again!!!

sean_w_smith

07-12-08, 05:09 PM

AEON Website is up here for me.

Alternatively you can pull the skins directly from where they live (subversion source code repository)....

Sean

Stryker412

07-12-08, 08:35 PM

Ja Phule

07-12-08, 09:56 PM

Can someone tell me how to add new backdrops for Aeon? I downloaded some of them off Aeon's site and converted them to .tiff like it says but xbmc sees no files in the directory when I try to change it to that.

Make sure you resize the backgrounds to 1280x720 and keep it in bmp format for best performance. Make sure in the AEON skin settings you are using xbox mode.

Stryker412

07-13-08, 12:56 PM

I had issues last night with my upgrade so I deleted the directories and started over. For some reason the scrapers are not picking up my tv shows correctly. I have each show in it's own folder with the episodes listed as 1x01, 1x02, etc. I had them found correctly before but now since I'm starting over it sees the directory but no files in the directory (this is in library mode only, file mode they're all there). Any suggestions?

sean_w_smith

07-13-08, 09:56 PM

topperdude

07-14-08, 12:51 PM

Is there a stragithforward way to switch from XBMC to the original Xbox interface (to play Xbox games) and back to XBMC once I am done with using the original Xbox dashboard?

Thanks,
-Topper

sean_w_smith

07-14-08, 06:23 PM

ChrisFB

07-14-08, 08:40 PM

Is there a stragithforward way to switch from XBMC to the original Xbox interface (to play Xbox games) and back to XBMC once I am done with using the original Xbox dashboard?

Thanks,
-Topper

In addition to the above, where XBMC can launch games either copied to a larger hd or from the DVD drive, you can also launch the Xbox dashboard as a program if that's really where you need to get to. If there's a DVD movie in the drive, it will launch the Xbox DVD player software which can be hex edited for 480p output if you'd like (although XBMC's built in DVD is better in my mind).

crashnburn_in

07-15-08, 02:24 AM

I had trouble with those "Skin" Tortoise links. The links go to a server but its not easy to download the whole folder. How do you do that on a regular basis? They are not FTP folders. Would File Zilla work?

PS: I downloaded the latest Torrent that has XBMC Skins I guess. How / where should I upload to my new XBMC Xbox?

sean_w_smith

07-15-08, 08:33 AM

sean_w_smith

07-15-08, 08:34 AM

topperdude

07-15-08, 10:13 AM

In addition to the above, ...., you can also launch the Xbox dashboard as a program if that's really where you need to get to.

Yes - How would I do that (and then get back to XBMC after I am done with the Xbox dashborad)?

Thanks,
-Topper

Ja Phule

07-15-08, 10:17 AM

topperdude

07-15-08, 10:32 AM

topperdude

07-15-08, 10:56 AM

That (http://item.express.*********/PSYCLONE-COMPONENT-VIDEO-CABLE-XBOX-NIB_W0QQitemZ180249019720QQFROM_MERCHANDISINGZ1QQcmdZExpress Item)seems to be the Xbox 360. You can try this link (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?Product%5FID=17133) and enter your zip code to see if any Gamestop near you has the Advanced AV pack (this is the non-HD version). In the past month I was able to get this pack as well as a couple of the HD packs at a Gamestop in my town. One of the HD AV packs was transferred from another Gamestop in a different town - will try to see if I can find the link on Gamestop's website for the Microsoft HD AV pack.

Good luck,
-Topper

If anyone's still looking for the original Microsoft Xbox HD AV pack, here's the link (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=18821) for a used one on Gamestop's website.

Its not available online, but you can check local store availability by entering your zipcode. If there isnt one within driving distance you can ask if your local Gamestop store will try to do a store-to-store transfer from the nearest store for you (it sounded like managers at both stores have to agree to do this when I asked them about it). My local store was able to get it transferred from a store around 50 miles away and when I went to pick it up, I found it also included the component cables for that price (so I just had to hookup an optical cable I had lying around from monoprice.com)

Anyways, if the original HD A/V pack are not available through gamestop, the Psyclone and Monster cables might still be better than the third party ones on ebay (as has already been pointed out).

Hope this helps,
-Topper

sean_w_smith

07-15-08, 12:35 PM

Cool! Yes, I am using XBMC with PM3 currently and will probably try the filemanager option to navigate to and run the xboxdash.xbe.

Thanks for the help.
-Topper

But why? What are you hoping to do. you can launch games including trainers from XBMC. There honestly no reason to use the MS DASH to run games and many reasons to use XBMC?

What exactly are you trying to do.

When you put a games disk in the drive with XBMC it can be set to autorun. Also the play icon will light up. Additionally games on the HD can be categorized in menus using Icons which cant be done from the stock dash.....

I recommend checking this out.

http://xbmc.org/wiki/?title=Programs

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-15-08, 12:45 PM

I thought I would repost these instructions with info on how to download all the latest skins from sourceforge...

we use command line SVN for work on unix platforms and for home I use tortoise SVN which is a Windows Explorer plugin for SVN

http://tortoisesvn.net/downloads

Steps:

1. install the SW above on windows.
2. reboot as the install requires this
3. create a directory somewhere to put the code in you will be downloading
4. from Windows explorer or your favorite file manager. Right click on the newly created directory. There will be a new Menu option: "Svn Checkout". Select this option.
5. In the Dialog that pops up place the URL for the source code into the field "URL of Repository". Click OK

https://xboxmediacenter.svn.sourceforge.net/svnroot/xboxmediacenter/

6. it will download the code and say something like: at Revision/110
7. Double click on the build.bat contained in each kins directory you created.
8. it will build the script and place the results in the build sub directory
7. ftp the contents of the build directory to your XBMC/userdata/skin directory on your xbox.
8. browse to it and run it on your XBMC script menu.

NOTE: AEON is not currently checked into to the master code repository. Dunno why. All the other skins and the master XBMC source code live here...

Have Fun,
Sean

crashnburn_in

07-15-08, 09:37 PM

There's an option in XBMC to set the path of the original xbox dashboard in the XBMC settings (its probably C\xboxdash.xbe). There is a menu option to go to the dashboard from XBMC (varies by skin, PM3 i think it is somewhere in the shutdown menu). You can also just go to your filemanager, navigate to c\xboxdash.xbe.

Assuming XBMC is your current dashboard, you can just do the controller reboot to get back to XBMC from the original xbox dash by pressing the 2 triggers and back and start buttons simultaneously.

I need to do this. I'll try it and get back.

If anyone's still looking for the original Microsoft Xbox HD AV pack, here's the link (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=18821) for a used one on Gamestop's website.

Its not available online, but you can check local store availability by entering your zipcode. If there isnt one within driving distance you can ask if your local Gamestop store will try to do a store-to-store transfer from the nearest store for you (it sounded like managers at both stores have to agree to do this when I asked them about it). My local store was able to get it transferred from a store around 50 miles away and when I went to pick it up, I found it also included the component cables for that price (so I just had to hookup an optical cable I had lying around from monoprice.com)

Anyways, if the original HD A/V pack are not available through gamestop, the Psyclone and Monster cables might still be better than the third party ones on ebay (as has already been pointed out).

Hope this helps,
-Topper

This Game Stop looks like the cheapest of all deals / Best price? Is it not?

CDLehner

07-15-08, 09:45 PM

Wow, I'm toast right out the gate! I'm trying to connect to xbins using this tutorial http://www.xbox-scene.com/articles/xbins.php, and I'm just getting no where. Step 3 doesn't really look like step 3, but I think I'm getting connected to xbins...but then step 5 doesn't look like step 5 and "/msg xbins !list" (no quotes) does jack.

This tutorial is probably 50 years old, and I probably shouldn't even be posting such a noobie question here. If someone can point me to a better starting point?

Thanks,
CD

Cocophone

07-15-08, 10:09 PM

I followed this tutorial. It was a piece of cake to follow.

http://lifehacker.com/software/geek-to-live/transform-your-classic-xbox-into-a-killer-media-center-299809.php

CDLehner

07-15-08, 10:55 PM

I followed this tutorial. It was a piece of cake to follow.

http://lifehacker.com/software/geek-to-live/transform-your-classic-xbox-into-a-killer-media-center-299809.php

Thanks, I'll try it.

CD

CDLehner

07-15-08, 11:41 PM

OK, well...hats off to you guys; if this is supposed to be easy...:confused:

I'm kind of using a combination of the 2 tutorials. I was able to connect to xbins and one tutorial said get Softmod.Installer.Deluxe (so I grabbed v2.0, the .rar file...which I know needs to be extracted...and the .sfv...do I even need this?) and one tutorial said get Krayzie NDURE (so I grabbed v1.0 and v1.1 for MA...I assume this is for Mech Assault, which is the game I will be loading from).

Do these applications do the same thing? Do I need one or the other, or both? OK, and now I guess I go to http://t3ch.yi.se/ and get which version of XBMC? (I know there is some debate about the newest version vs. stable, for a noobie like me).

Thanks,
CD

jjchambers

07-16-08, 12:50 AM

Next item I'm looking for: A web interface for xbmc that has BIG buttons and fits the N800's screen. Something like Canola2 for those of you using an N8x0 or N770.
Thanks

Since I didn't get a response, I decided to take a try at hacking the origianal interface to fit my Nokia N800.

I had to remove some buttons to make the other ones big enough to control with your fingers. Actually the only ones I made bigger were the VIDEOS, PICTURES, MUSIC, MUSIC PLAYLIST buttons. I deleted the VIDEO PLAYLIST button, the volume slide since I'm going to create a volume button for my tv or stereo on a different screen and the XBMC logo. I'll spend tomorrow trying to make the play/stop/pause/ff/rw buttons bigger.

I've also made the text over twice as big so it's easier to click on to select a movie/song title/albus/picture. This is where I've run into trouble. If you have an extra long movie or song title it doesn't play nice with the screen and the next one under it. I really have no idea where to look. All I was doing was modifying the .css file and seeing what happened. If someone could let me know how to wrap text that would be great.

I'm not done yet but I'd like to put it out there for other people to play with and help me on it. If you install the contents of the web.zip file directly into your web folder (E:apps/xbmc/web) then this will be your default web browser even if you pull it up on your computer. If you want it to be a separate page, I think you would just put the contents of this web.zip file into another folder called N800 in your xbox's web folder, then you would navigate your portable device to xboxip/N800/default.asp instead of just xboxip/default.asp. I didn't change any functionality of the program I wouldn't know where to begin. All I did was change the layout a bit to better support an 800 x 480 touchscreen.

Here's the file: http://www.mediafire.com/?r91hnemgenz

See screen shots a couple posts below. You'll see the last 2 pics show the problems I have with text on long titles.

Thanks,

J

crashnburn_in

07-16-08, 01:32 AM

This was posted on SNB Forums. Is that the case for XBMC?

If the media player you have can network browse and play files fine from your server then there is no advantage to using a "media server". Media servers are helpful with players that don't have general network browsing capabilities.

crashnburn_in

07-16-08, 01:41 AM

See the 2 Tutorial Links on AfterDawn.com. You shall see some posts where I've been asking for direction.

Follow that tutorial. Its the most clear with screenshots. Its the simplest and uses Action Replay with Soft Mod.

Since I did not want to buy an action replay I used an ordinary flash usb stick with an adapter.

Wow, I'm toast right out the gate! I'm trying to connect to xbins using this tutorial http://www.xbox-scene.com/articles/xbins.php, and I'm just getting no where. Step 3 doesn't really look like step 3, but I think I'm getting connected to xbins...but then step 5 doesn't look like step 5 and "/msg xbins !list" (no quotes) does jack.

This tutorial is probably 50 years old, and I probably shouldn't even be posting such a noobie question here. If someone can point me to a better starting point?

Thanks,
CD

OK, well...hats off to you guys; if this is supposed to be easy...:confused:

I'm kind of using a combination of the 2 tutorials. I was able to connect to xbins and one tutorial said get Softmod.Installer.Deluxe (so I grabbed v2.0, the .rar file...which I know needs to be extracted...and the .sfv...do I even need this?) and one tutorial said get Krayzie NDURE (so I grabbed v1.0 and v1.1 for MA...I assume this is for Mech Assault, which is the game I will be loading from).

Do these applications do the same thing? Do I need one or the other, or both? OK, and now I guess I go to http://t3ch.yi.se/ and get which version of XBMC? (I know there is some debate about the newest version vs. stable, for a noobie like me).

Thanks,
CD

All these can be confusing. Use the afterdawn.com tutorial step by step and you'll be good.

LOOK FOR ALL MY POSTS IN THIS THREAD .. OVER LAST 15 days.

jjchambers

07-16-08, 07:28 AM

Added some screen shots: Notice the last 2 show the problem I'm having with the long text titles.

Thanks,

J

CDLehner

07-16-08, 08:12 AM

dan4081

07-16-08, 09:24 AM

This one http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/376141 ?

CD

No! That isnt a tutorial on how to softmod.
If you wait until tonight I will post the tutorial I used (I'm at work now)
If you use the one I used I can help you along.

topperdude

07-16-08, 09:54 AM

This Game Stop looks like the cheapest of all deals / Best price? Is it not?

It ended up being the cheapest for me since the HD pack I got included the component cables. However,

a) Not sure if component cables are included with all HD packs though... remember, the second one I got from that store did not have any cables - if that's the case you may have to factor in the additional cost of buying component cables (unless you have an extra set lying around) as the Psyclone cables already have the component cables built-in.

b) The other thing with the Gamestop cables is whether your store's salesperson or manager will agree to transfer it from a different store for no additional charge if they dont have it in stock.

I also have the Psyclone cable that sean_w_smith mentioned in his post and quality-wise they are both comparable on my 32" HDTV.

Good luck,
-Topper

sean_w_smith

07-16-08, 02:25 PM

Bmc40188

07-16-08, 05:25 PM

About 2 weeks ago I modded my xbox using a hotswap tutorial and installed XBMC.. I didn't want to buy anything. I admit at first I was utterly confused because there are so many different methods to do it and its important to note that modding an xbox and installing XBMC onto it are two different procedures all together. It just so happens that in order to install XBMC, you need a modded XBOX. Ultimately, I used the XboxHDM and Ndure installer method. A good tutorial to this method is right here:

///forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=496263
(I can't post URLs because I don't have 3 posts.. so take out the extra /)

Once you finish installing the softmod(where the FAQ starts), you will have a modded Xbox.. but then you have to install XBMC. I wanted it as a dashboard, so I followed this method:

///xbmc.org/wiki/?title=As_a_Dashboard
(I can't post URLs because I don't have 3 posts.. so take out the extra /)

Use Option 1.

After you get past the softmod and move onto installing XBMC, you will need an FTP client. There are many out there. I used WinSCP (its free - just google it or find another one). You will need to plug up your Xbox into your TV and router/modem via ethernet so it will get a IP address via DHCP. Turn on the Xbox and find the IP address for the xbox either on the new Xbox dashboard, or through the settings menu.

Once you get the IP address, connect to your Xbox via your FTP client. Once you have a successful connection, you should be able to see the Xbox's HD contents.

I got confused at this next part. On the 'Install XBMC as a Dashboard' instructions, it says that you want to replace the default dashboard with a new one. Don't attempt to replace the 'xboxdash.xbe' file under the C: partition. That is the wrong one. Instead, you need to find the UnleashX dash. Unfortunately, I can't remember where it is right now. However, I am almost positive it is named default.xbe, or so I hope =P.

Anyways, I'm not sure how clear this post is or how much it helped, but if you have any questions, by all means, send me a message and I will try to help.

crashnburn_in

07-16-08, 06:27 PM

crashnburn_in

07-16-08, 06:34 PM

This one http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/376141 ?

CD

Nope check out the links and direction on THIS post. (Its my long post on Page 119)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14268083#post14268083

In that post:

Link1 - How to create an Action Replay using USB Flash Card
Link2 - How to SoftMod. The Softmod installs a Non MS Dashboard - one of these - Unleash X and Evolution X. This allows you to do a bunch of stuff and enable FTP.

Then...
XBMC Install is as easy as COPYING the files over to the XBMC using FTP.

Hope that helps.

JaPhule - Maybe you should take these Links and post them to your FIRST POST on this thread. The links you posted were not as clear as these tutorials. BTW - I might be coming to Dallas. Would you be able to meet?

sean_w_smith

07-16-08, 07:00 PM

From the perspective of XBMC - Benefit of a plan File / Storage Share v/s a NAS / Media Server that supports some protocols: i.e. UPnP, DLNA etc.

What is the additional benefit that an XBMC user would have?

Nothing really... Its a different model. XBMC works best with SMB. The xbox uses MySql Lite (database) internally to provide its fancy interface with speed and elegance.

THe Upnp approach is the opposite. Centralize the database on the server instead of each client maintaining its own. this allows for thin (read disk less) clients. The interface seems to always suffer as a result of this. The benefit is that there is only copy of the database and the clients can be manufactured cheaper.

The xbox since is really just a low cost PC that has the flexibility and power to tremendous things. Running the local DB and the fact that there is a local disk where it caches thumbnails, as well as the DirectX GPU and Pentium CPU (versus some slower embedded arm, mips, etc) provides a amazingly FAST interface for media browsing. Hope that makes sense....

As far as NAS's. XBMC's needs are simple SMB. Having a NAS that supports upnp gives you support for other thin client media players which I also have a few of.

To me the NAS is for reliability and stability, never having to deal with viruses or even reboot it. I dont ever want to re-rip my media library and it allows me to sleep better at night. An old PC with a big giant USB disk hanging of it will work just as well for XBMC and I used that approach for about 18 months before I bought my first NAS. NAS's are also nice in that they are headless. In both my houses the NAS is in the equipment closet with the Cablemode, Ethernet Switches, and a UPS and is never seen or heard. Its just there and it works...

I'll say it again for those who dont know my opinion :) bite the bullet and buy a Infrant ReadyNas... It just works and works well. Lots of Features, No BS.

Sean

dan4081

07-16-08, 08:56 PM

Read this...

http://xbmc.org/wiki/?title=As_a_Dashboard

Krazies boots: e:\dashboard\default.xbe

so replace that file withthe shortcut described in the link above... Its quite straightforward... you might want to have AID or a Frostys recovery disc handy and bootable in case you screw it up so you can fix it. Always make sure you can run XBMC from the Evox, etc menu before switching it to be the default dash....

Cheers,
Sean

I have read that link 50 times and still have no idea how to go about making xbmc my default.
Softmod-no trouble.
Install xbmc-no trouble.
Network xbox with vista pc-no trouble.

Set xbmc as default-no clue:confused:

Is the default dash in C: or E:?
There is no E/Dashboard that I can find?
Make a text file? No idea what that means.

Sorry if I am being dense, but this part is confusing me.....

sean_w_smith

07-16-08, 11:20 PM

I have read that link 50 times and still have no idea how to go about making xbmc my default.
Softmod-no trouble.
Install xbmc-no trouble.
Network xbox with vista pc-no trouble.

Set xbmc as default-no clue:confused:

Is the default dash in C: or E:?
There is no E/Dashboard that I can find?
Make a text file? No idea what that means.

Sorry if I am being dense, but this part is confusing me.....

The Softmod is going to boot e:\evox\evoxdash.xbe or e:\dashboard\default.xbe or something like that. Which softmod did you use?

what do you see on e:\ besides tdata and udata?

understanding this is the first step. Lets see if we can figure that part out....

Sean

jjchambers

07-17-08, 01:04 AM

Updated the backgrounds, got the extra large buttons to work. I don't think I'm going to do a volume on these pages but I think I'll try to add a mute button in that empty space under MusicPlaylist. Tomorrow I'm gonna re-work the power and reset buttons. Still haven't figured out what's going on with my text. Let me know what you think.

Here's a link to the new files: http://www.mediafire.com/?vmyjzcf0bcj

Screen shots:

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa118/jrstchambers/xbmc/home.jpg

J

sean_w_smith

07-17-08, 10:59 AM

cool stuff.....

dan4081

07-17-08, 06:13 PM

The Softmod is going to boot e:\evox\evoxdash.xbe or e:\dashboard\default.xbe or something like that. Which softmod did you use?

what do you see on e:\ besides tdata and udata?

understanding this is the first step. Lets see if we can figure that part out....

Sean

Hi Sean-thanks for the reply.

on the e:\ I also have evoxdash.xbe, a backup folder, an xbmc folder, and a cache folder.(I also have an xbmc folder inside apps.)

I believe the e:\xbmc folder was the one I put in the first time I softmodded and tried to ftp xbmc to the box. I think I put it in e:\ before I figured out that it had to go in e:\apps.
I was going to delete e:\xbmc but have just left it since it doesnt seem to be affecting anything.

sean_w_smith

07-17-08, 06:26 PM

Hi Sean-thanks for the reply.

on the e:\ I also have evoxdash.xbe, a backup folder, an xbmc folder, and a cache folder.(I also have an xbmc folder inside apps.)

I believe the e:\xbmc folder was the one I put in the first time I softmodded and tried to ftp xbmc to the box. I think I put it in e:\ before I figured out that it had to go in e:\apps.
I was going to delete e:\xbmc but have just left it since it doesnt seem to be affecting anything.

This helps. So does you box boot into Evo-X or some other dash. I woulld suspect evoxdash.xbe in your e:\ directory.

do you have a boot disc like AID or Frostys that you can successfully boot in case you mess this step up?

can your confirm your path to XBMC is:

e:\apps\xbmc\default.xbe (case does not matter)

I gotta go cut my grass but will check back later. We'll get this resolved. Thats like torture if you like XBMC to have to run it everytime you boot your xbox... :)

Sean

CDLehner

07-17-08, 06:43 PM

OK, well...things just get more confusing. One person sends me to this tutorial, and another sends me to that way...they describe totally different ways to accomplish, what I assume is the same thing?

Some have offered to help through PM, but then don't respond for days (which I understand...beggars can't be choosers), and it's starting to get frustrating. I haven't made step one, except to determine that my dashboard version is 4920 (one tutorial said you need to be on a later version to make sure your XBMC mod will work...others don't mention it at all???)

Every tutorial says "the files you need are here", and they all have different files!! I think the whole "this is easy" disclaimer should come attached to "if you are already an Xbox expert"; for someone like me, who is approaching it, not as an Xbox user who wants to stream media to it, but as a media streamer who has decided to try an Xbox, the tutorials are very confusing and really overly long (one tutorial I read about how to splice together a female USB end, to the Xbox controller male end, goes into voltages and power draws, etc...give me a break. How about take this cable, cut this end and strip wires...take this cable, cut this end and strip these wires...solder these wires to these wires...done!).

OK, trying to get back on track...here is where I guess I'm at: 1) Do I need to update my dashboard? If so, is there any way to do it without buying a certain game? 2) I need mod files, and I need a way to put them on a USB stick? Can anyone point me to the most current files (if it matters, I'm using MechAssault)? and 3) I need to make my USB cable. I have a USB extender, so I need the female end of that to hold the card, right? Now, can I just use the small "breakaway" portion of the controller cable, the one with the male end and just clip the "extension connector", and then attach that to the USB female end, or do I need the whole controller cable for some reason, and therefore need to clip it just short of the actual "gamestick"?

Thanks. Again sorry, because I know you guys are talking Calculus and I'm asking about 1+1, but no one has pointed me to the noobie (stoopie) forum yet either. :D

CD

dan4081

07-17-08, 07:03 PM

This helps. So does you box boot into Evo-X or some other dash. I woulld suspect evoxdash.xbe in your e:\ directory.

*yes, evoxdash.xbe in e:

do you have a boot disc like AID or Frostys that you can successfully boot in case you mess this step up?

*No boot disc, but the installer I used had me make back-ups

can your confirm your path to XBMC is:

e:\apps\xbmc\default.xbe (case does not matter)

*yes-that is the correct path

I gotta go cut my grass but will check back later. We'll get this resolved. Thats like torture if you like XBMC to have to run it everytime you boot your xbox... :)
Sean

Thanks

dan4081

07-17-08, 07:11 PM

---snipped---
Thanks. Again sorry, because I know you guys are talking Calculus and I'm asking about 1+1, but no one has pointed me to the noobie (stoopie) forum yet either. :D

CD

Heres the tutorial I used. This has links to the files I used, and also a link to making your own cable, which I also used. If you use this tutorial I can help you along, since it is the same one I used.

http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/558747

crashnburn_in

07-17-08, 07:47 PM

JJChambers - Can you please convert those images to LINKS or to smaller thumbnails. They are driving me crazy to have to go through. Also the person who QUOTED THEM please unquote the whole thing.

OK, well...things just get more confusing. ......

CD

I went through the same PAINS 2 weeks back. If you got through this post. You'll see the light.

Now try and FOCUS here. Okay! There might be several ways, but you need to pick one and follow one. I RECENTLY did it the this way.

CONCEPT / THEORY OF STAGES TO UNDERSTAND:

1) It needs a Action Replay and the Game CD / DVD

2)Action replay allows you to RUN a Hacked Game Save via the Game CD.
Imagine the Game Save like a VIRUS and the Game CD as the Virus Loader.

3) To avoid buying an Action Replay there are several ways to make your own.

4) Once you have your Action Replay... You can start figuring how to add the Soft Mod Hacked Game Save...
First: In To the Action Replay Card

Until this point you are still getting the equipment READY for the SoftMod.

Second: To the XBox using the Game CD as the Virus Loader
This SECOND STEP is where the actual SoftMod begins.

5) The SoftMod basically installs a new DASHBOARD (say like a New Operating System)
For e.g. Lets say your company or college PC does not allow use of Linux and only has Microsoft Windows & Internet Explorer, that also a locked down one that wont allow you to use Firefox. You have to find SOME WAY around to BOOT into a Linux Installer.
The Soft Mod allows you to install a custom dashboard (I am assuming its Linux based)

6) Once the Dashboard is installed you can install all kinds of APPLICATIONS on it. Kind of like installing Firefox on IN YOUR CONTROL version of Linux.
Enable the FTP on Dashboard.

7) Download the T3CH version of XBMC. Copyt it via FTP
XBMC is one of the applications that you COPY to the E:\APPS folder by ENABLING the FTP on the newly installed DASHBOARD (Linux)

8) Restart after copying is completed. Look into APPLICATIONS. If the App does not show BROWSE to the E:\APPS folder using the Dashboard File Explorer and the Run the xxxxxxxx.XBE (Maybe Default.XBE) file from it.
This will run XBMC.
Next time you restart XBMC will show in the DASHBOARD Applications.

I hope it helps.

STEPS:

Link1 - How to create an Action Replay using USB Flash Card (There are MANY ways... I used the one where I bought a Xbox USB to Normal USB adapter cable (Ebay for 5$). You can also do this by several ways - SPLICING OPEN the cables or the controllers etc. MESSY HARDWARE ways)
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/578329

Link2 - How to SoftMod. The Softmod installs a Non MS Dashboard - one of these - Unleash X and Evolution X. This allows you to do a bunch of stuff and enable FTP.
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/558747

Then...
XBMC Install is as easy as COPYING the files over to the XBMC using FTP.

RESULTS:
I received the Xbox USB to USB Female Cable. Got the USB Memory stick to work as described on the afterdawn thread. Now I have Unleash X Soft Mod installed.

I used Unleash as pointed out by the preference of the tutorial author.

Now what next? How do I get it to look like Aeon etc XBMC. An XBMC that is smarter & easier to update, manage. What next? T3H or AID ??

Steps 6, 7, 8.

JaPhule - Maybe you should take these Links and post them to your FIRST POST on this thread. The links you posted were not as clear as these tutorials. BTW - I might be coming to Dallas. Would you be able to meet?[/QUOTE]

crashnburn_in

07-17-08, 07:53 PM

sean_w_smith

07-17-08, 08:18 PM

Ja Phule - Is there a recommended way to Organize, Name and Store all Media Files for easy addition to Library as well as seamless download of Media information from TV, IMDB & All Music / etc Databases?

What kind of Album, Tag Naming, TV Series naming, Movie etc?

PS: How much Media do you totally have STORED? GB? TB? How much?

PPS: Is it possible to configure one XBMC properly with Media Source & Media Info and then duplicate that easily on rest of XBMC? How to ensure that allow the XBMC are always upto date with Media Info without manual addition / intervention?

Music Tagging works off the tags in the files only so directory structure does not matter. thats up to you.... If the tags are incomplete it will attempt to fill in missing info and cover art if you ask it too....

On DVD for IMDB.

name the directories or the ISO files after the movie title not the DVD title if you want it to work best....

For Example: American Pie Unrated Edition

name American Pie.iso because thats the real MOVIE name....

There are alternatives other's use other than IMDB but if you want that to work thats all you have to do....

I have about 700Gig of Music and 5 Gigs of Video on my two NAS's here....

you can set XBMC to independtly and automatically update both audio and video transparently in the background upon booting.

you can move thumbnails and databases between machines but with the latest auto background update additions this is futile since if your music tags are in good shape and your videos are names properly this is totally automatic.

I recommend Tag & Rename for fixing bad tagging in music files....

I dont do TV show database so no comment on that...

Sean

jcmo34

07-17-08, 09:17 PM

I am having a problem with one dvd .iso(Madagascar) that I can not get to play on the xbmc. I am using a fairly recent build(and had same problem on previous builds) When I click on the .iso file, the screen goes black like it is going to start, than a second or 2 later returns to the menu screen. This only happens to this .iso and not to any other .iso I have. I've even tried using the .vob files with the exact same result. The original dvd plays fine on my player & pc, and I can open the .vob files and preview them in DVD Shrink.
so I am completely at a loss:confused:.
Here is the message from xbmc.log
20:16:13 M: 39137280 WARNING: CDVDMessageQueue::Put MSGQ_NOT_INITIALIZED
20:16:13 M: 38612992 NOTICE: Creating InputStream
20:16:13 M: 38338560 NOTICE: DVDPlayer: playing a dvd with menu's
20:16:13 M: 38338560 NOTICE: Creating Demuxer
20:16:13 M: 34193408 WARNING: CDVDMessageQueue::Put MSGQ_NOT_INITIALIZED
20:16:13 M: 34193408 WARNING: CDVDMessageQueue::Put MSGQ_NOT_INITIALIZED
20:16:14 M: 33157120 NOTICE: Opening video stream: 0 source: 256
20:16:14 M: 33157120 NOTICE: Creating video codec with codec id: 2
20:16:14 M: 31784960 NOTICE: Creating video thread
20:16:14 M: 31252480 NOTICE: running thread: video_thread
20:16:14 M: 29540352 NOTICE: fps: 29.970030, pwidth: 720, pheight: 480, dwidth: 853, dheight: 480
20:16:14 M: 29298688 NOTICE: Display resolution USER : 720p 16:9 (1)
20:16:14 M: 29081600 NOTICE: CDVDPlayer::OnExit()
20:16:14 M: 28286976 NOTICE: DVDPlayer: eof, waiting for queues to empty
20:16:14 M: 28303360 NOTICE: DVDPlayer: closing video stream
20:16:14 M: 28303360 NOTICE: Closing video stream
20:16:14 M: 30220288 NOTICE: waiting for video thread to exit
20:16:14 M: 30220288 NOTICE: uninitting video device
20:16:14 M: 31821824 NOTICE: thread end: video_thread
20:16:14 M: 32346112 NOTICE: deleting video codec
20:16:14 M: 35139584 NOTICE: CDVDPlayer::OnExit() deleting demuxer
20:16:14 M: 35139584 NOTICE: CDVDPlayer::OnExit() deleting input stream
20:16:15 M: 35389440 NOTICE: CDVDPlayer::CloseFile()
20:16:15 M: 35389440 WARNING: CDVDMessageQueue::Put MSGQ_NOT_INITIALIZED
20:16:15 M: 35913728 NOTICE: DVDPlayer: waiting for threads to exit
20:16:15 M: 35913728 NOTICE: DVDPlayer: finished waiting

Anyone have any ideas? Is there a database or config file somewhere that perhaps is corrupted for this one movie?

crashnburn_in

07-17-08, 11:42 PM

xbox will not read your laptop ext HD unlesss its under 8g. connected to a laptop via ethernet is a just fine. I used this for a year before I bought a NAS.

So when I have files on an NTFS drive how should I share it?
How should / would I access it over the LAN?

I guess you meant 5TB and not 5 GB?

jjchambers

07-18-08, 07:51 AM

sean_w_smith

07-18-08, 09:12 AM

sean_w_smith

07-18-08, 09:22 AM

So when I have files on an NTFS drive how should I share it?
How should / would I access it over the LAN?

I guess you meant 5TB and not 5 GB?

Yes about 5TB of Video....

you might start reading about windows networking here or invite a friend who knows this stuff over to help. Sometimes it can be trickier than expected but should not be...

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp/filesharing.htm

Sean

jcmo34

07-18-08, 09:26 AM

I was just using FADHD Decryptor to create an .iso. But I was able to use Shrink to burn it to a dvd and it worked. So I played with it even more last night and finally got it to work by just having FABHD do the main movie.
In looking at it more, I do think the dvd starts up a bit differently than other dvd's. When I use the XBMC's secondary player(at work and don't remember if its mplayer or something else)it plays part of the disk, but not the main movie, and once it finishes it exits out.
So I think its just something specfic w/ the dvd.

As always, thanks for your reply Sean. Thanks

sean_w_smith

07-18-08, 09:31 AM

CDLehner

07-18-08, 06:35 PM

OK, since I have discovered that there are many, many different ways to go about this XBMC mod, I have decided the best course of action is to pick one and try to stick with it. Dan4081 has been gracious enough to try and help me through PM, but I'm getting stuck on an issue and wanted to get the opinion of the group.

I will be the first to admit I've made a pretty slipshod usb/xbox cable. When I first hooked it up I didn't get the message I've been told to expect; I got "The memory unit you inserted isn't functioning; it may be damaged". I got pissed, threw my cable in the garbage and was resigned to have to buy one cheap on eBay. Dan then told me about the massive compatibility issue with usb drives, and that it probably wasn't my cable, it was my drive. He told me I should format it fat32 and then try again. So I fished my cable out of the trash, re-twisted my ends, formatted my drive and tried again. It definitely "powers" the drive, but I get the same message.

I looked at the USB Compatibility list (http://www.xbox-linux.org/wiki/Xbox_USB_Compatibility_List) and my original drive was on the "doesn't work" list (PNY Attache 1G). So today I went and got the cheap drive Dan said worked for him; the OmniTech from Staples (the one they sell up by the registers for $7.99). He said it gave him a little fit at first, but then he formatted it fat32 and it worked. However I'm getting the same thing; I see the drive "light up", but I get the error "The memory unit you inserted isn't functioning; it may be damaged" instead of something to the effect of it is formatting the drive to xbox.

Have I likely got a bad cable or should I try yet a 3rd drive? I think I can get my hands on a SanDisk Cruzer Micro 1G, which is firmly on the "does work" list. Thoughts?

Thanks,
CD

dan4081

07-18-08, 07:05 PM

---snipped----little fit at first, but then he formatted it fat32 and it worked. However I'm getting the same thing; I see the drive "light up", but I get the error "The memory unit you inserted isn't functioning; it may be damaged" instead of something to the effect of it is formatting the drive to xbox.

Have I likely got a bad cable or should I try yet a 3rd drive? I think I can get my hands on a SanDisk Cruzer Micro 1G, which is firmly on the "does work" list. Thoughts?

Thanks,
CD

Recheck all your wires on the usb. They should match up color to color.
If that doesnt work, try the sandisk.
I used the omnitech 'twice' now, and it does work for me.
Let me know how you make out.

dan4081

07-18-08, 07:07 PM

Now for my latest xbmc issue.
I received my hd pack in the mail today. Hooked it up, switched 720p on, and set to 720 widescreen.
Pictures and text no look great!!!
My issue is now all my movies play in a little box in the center of the screen.

What settings should I use?

Ja Phule

07-18-08, 07:09 PM

Put your view mode on "normal" or "auto". If you are using remote, press the "enter" or "ok" button and you videos will toggle throught he different zoom modes.

Ja Phule

07-18-08, 07:10 PM

dan4081

07-18-08, 07:18 PM

Put your view mode on "normal" or "auto". If you are using remote, press the "enter" or "ok" button and you videos will toggle throught he different zoom modes.

Perfect!!!! Thanks so much.

crashnburn_in

07-18-08, 07:41 PM

CD Lehner -

This post was THE LONGEST OUTLINE.. WRITTEN & POSTED for you. Because I was unsure of and afraid of the SPLICING and DICING of cables I wanted stuff that was PLUG & PLAY.

If this does not help then even Dan wont be able to.

JaPhule - Even if he gets a Memory Card with the game save, he will still need a proper Action Replay / Memory Reader to read & upload to Xbox.

--------------------------

Buy this "Xbox USB to Normal USB Female Adapter Cable" thing off Ebay for $6-8 Shipped. Seller: gamezforless

OK, well...things just get more confusing. ......

CD

I went through the same PAINS 2 weeks back. If you got through this post. You'll see the light.

Now try and FOCUS here. Okay! There might be several ways, but you need to pick one and follow one. I RECENTLY did it the this way.

CONCEPT / THEORY OF STAGES TO UNDERSTAND:

1) It needs a Action Replay and the Game CD / DVD

2)Action replay allows you to RUN a Hacked Game Save via the Game CD.
Imagine the Game Save like a VIRUS and the Game CD as the Virus Loader.

3) To avoid buying an Action Replay there are several ways to make your own.

4) Once you have your Action Replay... You can start figuring how to add the Soft Mod Hacked Game Save...
First: In To the Action Replay Card

Until this point you are still getting the equipment READY for the SoftMod.

Second: To the XBox using the Game CD as the Virus Loader
This SECOND STEP is where the actual SoftMod begins.

5) The SoftMod basically installs a new DASHBOARD (say like a New Operating System)
For e.g. Lets say your company or college PC does not allow use of Linux and only has Microsoft Windows & Internet Explorer, that also a locked down one that wont allow you to use Firefox. You have to find SOME WAY around to BOOT into a Linux Installer.
The Soft Mod allows you to install a custom dashboard (I am assuming its Linux based)

6) Once the Dashboard is installed you can install all kinds of APPLICATIONS on it. Kind of like installing Firefox on IN YOUR CONTROL version of Linux.
Enable the FTP on Dashboard.

7) Download the T3CH version of XBMC. Copyt it via FTP
XBMC is one of the applications that you COPY to the E:\APPS folder by ENABLING the FTP on the newly installed DASHBOARD (Linux)

8) Restart after copying is completed. Look into APPLICATIONS. If the App does not show BROWSE to the E:\APPS folder using the Dashboard File Explorer and the Run the xxxxxxxx.XBE (Maybe Default.XBE) file from it.
This will run XBMC.
Next time you restart XBMC will show in the DASHBOARD Applications.

I hope it helps.

STEPS:

Link1 - How to create an Action Replay using USB Flash Card (There are MANY ways... I used the one where I bought a Xbox USB to Normal USB adapter cable (Ebay for 5$). You can also do this by several ways - SPLICING OPEN the cables or the controllers etc. MESSY HARDWARE ways)
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/578329

Link2 - How to SoftMod. The Softmod installs a Non MS Dashboard - one of these - Unleash X and Evolution X. This allows you to do a bunch of stuff and enable FTP.
http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/558747

Then...
XBMC Install is as easy as COPYING the files over to the XBMC using FTP.

RESULTS:
I received the Xbox USB to USB Female Cable. Got the USB Memory stick to work as described on the afterdawn thread. Now I have Unleash X Soft Mod installed.

I used Unleash as pointed out by the preference of the tutorial author.

Now what next? How do I get it to look like Aeon etc XBMC. An XBMC that is smarter & easier to update, manage. What next? T3H or AID ??

Steps 6, 7, 8.

JaPhule - Maybe you should take these Links and post them to your FIRST POST on this thread. The links you posted were not as clear as these tutorials. BTW - I might be coming to Dallas. Would you be able to meet?[/QUOTE]

darklordjames

07-18-08, 09:31 PM

crashnburn_in

07-18-08, 10:04 PM

"JaPhule - Even if he gets a Memory Card with the game save, he will still need a proper Action Replay / Memory Reader to read & upload to Xbox."

Um, what? No. If he gets a memory card with the gamesave, then he just plugs it into his controller, which contains the card reader. Then, in the dashboard he can just easily copy it to the HDD.

Which controller has a CARD READER?

I have one wired and 2 wireless ones and I dont see any card readers.

What kind of cards are we talking about?

CDLehner

07-18-08, 10:11 PM

Recheck all your wires on the usb. They should match up color to color.
If that doesnt work, try the sandisk.
I used the omnitech 'twice' now, and it does work for me.
Let me know how you make out.

Well this is really my question: is it possible for the cable to power the usb and not allow it to "communicate", or is the fact that it powers the usb likely proof that the cable is working fine, don't waste the $9 for a usb/xbox cable (which is really not a big deal), and that the issue probably still lies with the drive (although Dan has made this drive work, so I'm leaning cable)?

Ja Phule, thanks for the very generous offer. Call me stupid/stubborn, but I think half the "fun" is figuring out the mod; your way would be easier, but seems like "cheating" somehow. Thanks again; I may come to regret it, but right now I'm just trying to decide if I need to try a different drive or cable.

If I need to buy the cable, it's no big deal; the biggest disappointment won't be the money spent, but the delay it'll cost me. But if it has to be done, it has to be done (and if my XBMC experiment doesn't work out, and I need to re-sell the box on eBay, I can just advertise it as "everything you need" to XBMC...lol). I have to say there is quite the sense of community and support in this thread.

CD

dan4081

07-18-08, 10:27 PM

Well this is really my question: is it possible for the cable to power the usb and not allow it to "communicate", or is the fact that it powers the usb likely proof that the cable is working fine, don't waste the $9 for a usb/xbox cable (which is really not a big deal), and that the issue probably still lies with the drive (although Dan has made this drive work, so I'm leaning cable)?

CD

My usb thumbdrive lit up the first couple times I tried it, but didnt actually 'work" and give me the correct error message until after I formated it fat32.
Check your connections a couple more times, then if it still doesnt work try a different thumb drive.

skriefal

07-19-08, 12:25 AM

Which controller has a CARD READER?

I have one wired and 2 wireless ones and I dont see any card readers.

What kind of cards are we talking about?

Microsoft's wired Xbox controllers have card reader slots at the rear of the controller. Most 3rd-party wired controllers also have the slots.

crashnburn_in

07-19-08, 05:43 AM

Microsoft's wired Xbox controllers have card reader slots at the rear of the controller. Most 3rd-party wired controllers also have the slots.

Please post a picture. I dont see any.

CDLehner

07-19-08, 09:41 AM

ChrisFB

07-19-08, 10:09 AM

Question - I installed the latest 7-15 SVN (Fixed) from T3CH. There seems to be an ISO playback issue (everything else is fine).

Can someone recommend a recent stable functional build that handles all media and stacking?

Preferably something in the recent past where weather works and includes the new views i.e. not the "Stable" builds which were last current 2 years ago (beggars can't be choosers but come on Team XBMC you have to clean up the code and do point releases a little bit more often here).

Thanks

sean_w_smith

07-19-08, 11:02 AM

CDLehner

07-19-08, 12:13 PM

I did notice something today...not sure if it will shed any new light on my problem: I happen to move the OmniTech drive to my PC today and there was a 'playlists' folder on it; this is after formatting fat32 and getting the error when attaching it to the xbox. Mean anything?

Thanks,
CD

Yikes...remember, I am an Xbox noobie. I tried my drive again today, and while I got the same error I do see...when I'm in memory...that it offers "controller 2" (which is where I have my usb plugged in) and I can select it. Probably means I'm OK, right?

I'm going to try moving forward and see what happens.

CD

CDLehner

07-19-08, 12:57 PM

Yikes...remember, I am an Xbox noobie. I tried my drive again today, and while I got the same error I do see...when I'm in memory...that it offers "controller 2" (which is where I have my usb plugged in) and I can select it. Probably means I'm OK, right?

I'm going to try moving forward and see what happens.

CD

OK, I'm hitting a snag. I downloaded the usb_softmodding.rar, and 7-zip to extract it. I installed Action Replay, opened USBView and got my idV and idP; went into the xbreader.inf and changed the idV and idP (first device only, right?). Opened up Device Manager and tried to update driver information.

When Windows asks to search for software, I say "no, not this time", I say select from specific location, if I do "search for the best driver in this location" and point to Datel\Action Replay XBOX\Drivers I get the error cannot continue...the wizard could not find a better match for your hardware than the software you currently have installed.

If I back up and say don't search...I will choose the driver to install, and again point to Datel\Action Replay XBOX\Drivers, and select xbreader.inf I get the error the specified location does not contain information about your hardware.

I thought maybe that meant my drive wasn't really formatted "xbox", but when I try to open it (on my pc) I get that it is not formatted...which I assume is a good sign, since it should be formatted to be read by my PC. Any thoughts?

CD

skriefal

07-19-08, 01:30 PM

Please post a picture. I dont see any.

The memory slots are very evident, on the rear near where the cable connects to the controller. If you don't see them then you probably have one of the rare 3rd-party controllers that lacks the slots. I don't have a photo.

sean_w_smith

07-19-08, 01:33 PM

BTW: I just found this new program for updating skins..

it downloads the skins, builds them and uploads them to the xbox all automagically....

http://xbmc.org/forum/showthread.php?t=28000

I'm trying it out now.. seems to be working....

Sean

CDLehner

07-19-08, 02:22 PM

OK, I'm hitting a snag. I downloaded the usb_softmodding.rar, and 7-zip to extract it. I installed Action Replay, opened USBView and got my idV and idP; went into the xbreader.inf and changed the idV and idP (first device only, right?). Opened up Device Manager and tried to update driver information.

When Windows asks to search for software, I say "no, not this time", I say select from specific location, if I do "search for the best driver in this location" and point to Datel\Action Replay XBOX\Drivers I get the error cannot continue...the wizard could not find a better match for your hardware than the software you currently have installed.

If I back up and say don't search...I will choose the driver to install, and again point to Datel\Action Replay XBOX\Drivers, and select xbreader.inf I get the error the specified location does not contain information about your hardware.

I thought maybe that meant my drive wasn't really formatted "xbox", but when I try to open it (on my pc) I get that it is not formatted...which I assume is a good sign, since it should be formatted to be read by my PC. Any thoughts?

CD

OK, well...you can now ignore all this junk; I got a USB drive working and was rolling for a while. Now I need to update to 5960...just found the tutorial...wish me luck.

CD

darklordjames

07-19-08, 02:36 PM

"Now I need to update to 5960"

Put in a copy of Halo 2. :)

CDLehner

07-19-08, 02:47 PM

"Now I need to update to 5960"

Put in a copy of Halo 2. :)

Now, now DLJ...assumptions, assumptions :D

CD

CDLehner

07-19-08, 03:36 PM

OK, well...you can now ignore all this junk; I got a USB drive working and was rolling for a while. Now I need to update to 5960...just found the tutorial...wish me luck.

CD

OK, well...I'm not getting much help here today, but I'll give it a shot anyway. I'm having trouble ftp'ing to my Xbox. I open up Internet Explorer, ftp://xbox:xbox@xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx. I then try to open my xbox directory up in Windows Explorer (page-open ftp site in windows explorer), but it won't allow me to logon on as xbox/xbox. I have similar trouble with FlashFXP.

Help!

CD

CDLehner

07-19-08, 03:48 PM

OK, well...I'm not getting much help here today, but I'll give it a shot anyway. I'm having trouble ftp'ing to my Xbox. I open up Internet Explorer, ftp://xbox:xbox@xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx. I then try to open my xbox directory up in Windows Explorer (page-open ftp site in windows explorer), but it won't allow me to logon on as xbox/xbox. I have similar trouble with FlashFXP.

Help!

CD

Again, nevermind :o

CD

sean_w_smith

07-19-08, 04:25 PM

Again, nevermind :o

CD

you can't FTP into the box until the softmod is complete... hope your making progress...

Sean

CDLehner

07-19-08, 04:39 PM

you can't FTP into the box until the softmod is complete... hope your making progress...

Sean

Thanks. Done the softmod...any recommendations on the best tutorial for the XBMC?

CD

darklordjames

07-19-08, 06:02 PM

"Now, now DLJ...assumptions, assumptions"

What am I assuming? If I recall properly Halo 2 installs 5960 upon first inserting it. Am I assuming that you own a copy of it? No. But maybe I was assuming too much that you could easily find a copy. Hell, I can't walk outside without tripping over a copy of the game, they sold so many.

Sorry for assuming that you were ever so slightly resourceful, I guess.

CDLehner

07-19-08, 06:36 PM

dan4081

07-19-08, 07:04 PM

I am resourceful; I downloaded and ftp'd it over for free, and instantly! Why would you criticize me for that? :D

CD

Now THAT is resourceful!!

CDLehner

07-19-08, 07:21 PM

Thanks to Dan, now I get to ask the really tough questions...because the Softmod and XBMC install are complete!

Thanks again Dan (and all, with link and tutorials, etc., etc.)

CD

dan4081

07-19-08, 07:43 PM

Thanks to Dan, now I get to ask the really tough questions...because the Softmod and XBMC install are complete!

Thanks again Dan (and all, with link and tutorials, etc., etc.)

CD

Bet you could do the next one in under a half hour......

CDLehner

07-19-08, 10:38 PM

OK, well...that is quite enough for one day! I did the softmod and XBMC install, after running into probably every conceivable roadblock, and it has now...at least temporarily...taken the place of my mg-35 in my bedroom sd set-up.

I guess now I can start asking legitimate questions for a DVD Server using XBMC...thread, such as tagging files to get IMBD covers and descriptions, and skins, etc., etc. And who knows...I guess it's all covered somewhere in the previous 123 pages, so maybe I just need to get to reading?

But for now, something basic. As I said, I was previously using an mg-35, mostly streaming sd tv-on-dvd to the bedroom set. When ripping I pull the subtitles, and the mg-35 allows you to, of course, turn them on or off...but the XBMC is playing my files with them on and for the life of me, I can't find where to turn them off.

Thanks,
CD

dan4081

07-19-08, 10:47 PM

I believe if you hit the little white button while playing a movie you can choose to turn subtitles off and save that as default

crashnburn_in

07-20-08, 12:12 AM

I believe if you hit the little white button while playing a movie you can choose to turn subtitles off and save that as default

I needed that too.

CDLehner

07-20-08, 10:47 AM

I believe if you hit the little white button while playing a movie you can choose to turn subtitles off and save that as default

Thanks Dan. As I mentioned before, I've ripped everything up to this point for my MG-35 (and PS3, but that's another thread). With that unit, I found that if I only took the vob, especially with these TV-for-DVDs that I rip a lot of, the player had trouble with scanning, chapter skip, screen ratios, etc. So I've been used to ripping the vob, that represents a single episode, and the small bup's and ifo's that are associated with it.

With the MG-35, I could kick the "main" file off from like its associated ifo, so that's what I was doing with XBMC...and the subtitles that were ripped stayed on, and never offered an option turn them off (probably because of the file structure of the ifo). I started a program from the actual vob and the subtitles were not on (plus the letterbox ratio looked a little more accurate), and the menu offered the option of turning them on or off (but I don't think it was the little, white button that brought up the menu. Wife's sleeping right now, but I'll check it later).

So...I might just take a break today, but if I decide to get into it, what's the first step in getting the cool video covers and plot synopsis with my video? If the answer is read back through the pages of this thread, I can do that too.

CD

CDLehner

07-20-08, 10:51 AM

Thanks Dan. As I mentioned before, I've ripped everything up to this point for my MG-35 (and PS3, but that's another thread). With that unit, I found that if I only took the vob, especially with these TV-for-DVDs that I rip a lot of, the player had trouble with scanning, chapter skip, screen ratios, etc. So I've been used to ripping the vob, that represents a single episode, and the small bup's and ifo's that are associated with it.

With the MG-35, I could kick the "main" file off from like its associated ifo, so that's what I was doing with XBMC...and the subtitles that were ripped stayed on, and never offered an option turn them off (probably because of the file structure of the ifo). I started a program from the actual vob and the subtitles were not on (plus the letterbox ratio looked a little more accurate), and the menu offered the option of turning them on or off (but I don't think it was the little, white button that brought up the menu. Wife's sleeping right now, but I'll check it later).

So...I might just take a break today, but if I decide to get into it, what's the first step in getting the cool video covers and plot synopsis with my video? If the answer is read back through the pages of this thread, I can do that too.

CD

Oh yeah, and how do you set-up the weather??

CD

dan4081

07-20-08, 01:15 PM

Oh yeah, and how do you set-up the weather??

CD

Go into settings, and then weather and set up your area.

For getting the movie info, you go into my videos, and click the white button on the folder the videos are in. Click set content. Then you should be able to click the white button again and get an option to scan the library.
It will automatically get all your info and thumbnails.

CDLehner

07-20-08, 03:31 PM

Go into settings, and then weather and set up your area.

Yeah, that's what I've been doing: I go into settings, weather...I have the screen to change area code 1, 2, or 3...I go to change area code 1, it asks me to 'enter the nearest large town', and no matter what I try...area code, zip code, city name, it flashes...like it's trying to update...but just stays the same area (Aachen, Germany). I'm sure it must be something really simple that I'm missing.

CD

CDLehner

07-20-08, 03:47 PM

For getting the movie info, you go into my videos, and click the white button on the folder the videos are in. Click set content. Then you should be able to click the white button again and get an option to scan the library. It will automatically get all your info and thumbnails.

Ah, I knew it couldn't be that easy; otherwise this thing would be a freakin' miracle! Dan, you must be assuming that all my video files are tagged somehow? They're not. In fact, to be honest, I'm not familiar with tagging video files (audio yes, video no). I assume IMDB, or whichever site I choose to use, needs to know what it's looking for...and that's done through tagging. Is that what the DVD Profiler in this equation is for?

CD

CDLehner

07-20-08, 03:53 PM

Ah, I knew it couldn't be that easy; otherwise this thing would be a freakin' miracle! Dan, you must be assuming that all my video files are tagged somehow? They're not. In fact, to be honest, I'm not familiar with tagging video files (audio yes, video no). I assume IMDB, or whichever site I choose to use, needs to know what it's looking for...and that's done through tagging. Is that what the DVD Profiler in this equation is for?

CD

Trying to do some research on my own (always); is MovieManager the way to go?

CD

dan4081

07-20-08, 04:39 PM

Yeah, that's what I've been doing: I go into settings, weather...I have the screen to change area code 1, 2, or 3...I go to change area code 1, it asks me to 'enter the nearest large town', and no matter what I try...area code, zip code, city name, it flashes...like it's trying to update...but just stays the same area (Aachen, Germany). I'm sure it must be something really simple that I'm missing.

CD

Theres another spot in the settings where you have to set region I believe.

dan4081

07-20-08, 04:42 PM

Ah, I knew it couldn't be that easy; otherwise this thing would be a freakin' miracle! Dan, you must be assuming that all my video files are tagged somehow? They're not. In fact, to be honest, I'm not familiar with tagging video files (audio yes, video no). I assume IMDB, or whichever site I choose to use, needs to know what it's looking for...and that's done through tagging. Is that what the DVD Profiler in this equation is for?

CD

Each of my movies is just named whatever the movie is i.e.: Transformers is named transformers. When I rip and save them to my harddrive dvd shrink or dvd decrypter automatically name them whatever the name of the movie is.
No other software used.
It was able to find all the info from that.

CDLehner

07-20-08, 04:52 PM

Theres another spot in the settings where you have to set region I believe.

Yeah, my Region is set (at least I think I'm in the USA). :confused:

CD

CDLehner

07-20-08, 04:57 PM

Each of my movies is just named whatever the movie is i.e.: Transformers is named transformers. When I rip and save them to my harddrive dvd shrink or dvd decrypter automatically name them whatever the name of the movie is.
No other software used.
It was able to find all the info from that.

I have my movies named by the folder. So like Movies\Fight Club\then the files inside the folder are the main .vob (just named vts_01_1.vob), and then the 2 little .ifo's and .bup's. The cover art won't attach to the folder being named correctly? Do I need to change file names?

CD

P.S. I'm starting to notice a theme here; the weather, the cover art...maybe I'm not getting to the Net? What's the easiest way to check?

CD

CDLehner

07-20-08, 05:01 PM

I have my movies named by the folder. So like Movies\Fight Club\then the files inside the folder are the main .vob (just named vts_01_1.vob), and then the 2 little .ifo's and .bup's. The cover art won't attach to the folder being named correctly? Do I need to change file names?

CD

P.S. I'm starting to notice a theme here; the weather, the cover art...maybe I'm not getting to the Net? What's the easiest way to check?

CD

Yup, that was it! I went static during the mod, when I was having trouble with ftp. Didn't set DNS. I just, temporarily, went DHCP and now I am getting weather. Hopefully cover art will be next!

CD

dan4081

07-20-08, 05:06 PM

mkerdman

07-20-08, 06:16 PM

What are the Media Player Tools of choice to play the widest range of file type at up to 1080P on the Xbox360?

Can the XBOX360 me made to play .ts, .msts & .mkv rips and downloads at up to 1080P out the HDMI output?

Thanks in advance!

CDLehner

07-20-08, 07:27 PM

That should work fine

OK, I have had some success at downloading cover art for my movies. My problem is file structure. I have My Videos broken down into 2 directories, Movies and TV Shows. Then within movies I have a folder, which the movie name, that holds the vob, 2 ifo, and 2 bup for that title. I can hang the art to the folder, and it attaches itself to the vob, which is fine, but it also like one of the ifo's (vts_01_0.ifo). I guess the solution is to just get down to a single .vob or .iso, which is no problem...for movies; I didn't rip a ton of movies until I decided which front-end I was going to use, long-term wise, so it wouldn't be a big deal to re-rip them.

The TV Shows are another story altogether. I didn't have the first bit of luck getting any art or storylines for them, and I tried TV.com, TVBD, and IMDBTV (or whatever its called). Here's my file structure for TV: Show Name\Season\Show Title\and then the files (ex. The West Wing\Season 3\Ep. 01 - Isaac and Ismael). When XBMC is looking for art, does it key on the show title or the episode title? If episode title, is my episode folder too deep?

TV-on-DVD is the majority of my rips right now and I have to tell ya...I have asked around, and done trial-and-error, and there doesn't seem to be any consistent way to get these episodes down to one file and have them play right; whether it's their screen ratio, or chapter skip, etc. So I've had to resort to this method, but does that mean I'll likely lose the cool XBMC art and synopsis?

Also, is there any way to get this view "movie info" view without having to go in and select it? Like, you highlight the folder called Fight Club, and if you "select" it, rather than drilling down to your file you get the movie info...and then you can play or preview from there?

CD

CDLehner

07-20-08, 07:51 PM

dan4081

07-20-08, 08:16 PM

Sorry guys. I know I'm probably driving everyolne crazy with my questions, only to find the answers minutes later. I've made some headway with TV art. It's a little different than movies, in that I see, if you set content as TV, there a "get TV information" option and that will pull appropriate cover art.

Still no luck on episode information though. Am I asking for too much? Does XBMC do this or not?

Thanks,
CD

Dont know how to do what you are asking, but if you watch this video it looks like it can be done. (I think this is what you are looking for-look 1:34 into the youtube video?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8amNvWnGrew

As for your question here: "Also, is there any way to get this view "movie info" view without having to go in and select it?"

I choose 'media info' or "media info2" in library mode when I look through my video collection. Either of those 2 views show name, dvd art and info about the movie on the main screen without having to select it.
Edit: The view I am talking about is shown 11 seconds into that youtube video, and again at 42 seconds in.

CDLehner

07-20-08, 08:34 PM

Dont know how to do what you are asking, but if you watch this video it looks like it can be done. (I think this is what you are looking for-look 1:34 into the youtube video?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8amNvWnGrew

As for your question here: "Also, is there any way to get this view "movie info" view without having to go in and select it?"

I choose 'media info' or "media info2" in library mode when I look through my video collection. Either of those 2 views show name, dvd art and info about the movie on the main screen without having to select it.
Edit: The view I am talking about is shown 11 seconds into that youtube video, and again at 42 seconds in.

Wow, that's beautiful! How does he do it???

CD

dan4081

07-20-08, 08:37 PM

Wow, that's beautiful! How does he do it???

CD

Thats how mine looks for dvds. But I dont have any tv shows so cant help you there.

CDLehner

07-20-08, 08:41 PM

Thats how mine looks for dvds. But I dont have any tv shows so cant help you there.

Yeah, with your help I have the movies working to my satisfaction (gotta work on my file and directory structure, like I said), but this episode information for all the TV shows; not there yet.

CD

dan4081

07-20-08, 08:49 PM

Yeah, with your help I have the movies working to my satisfaction (gotta work on my file and directory structure, like I said), but this episode information for all the TV shows; not there yet.

CD

Im still getting my dvd library cleaned up. Xbmc didnt like how some of my videos were named.
Example: I_Robot_4x3 had to be changed to I_Robot

I did find something neat. Some of the artwork I got from the scan wasnt to great. Click the white button on the artwork and select movie info then select get thumb and xbmc will give you more thumbs to choose from.

dan4081

07-20-08, 08:52 PM

Found this. It may give you what you need.

http://xbmc.org/wiki/?title=TV_Shows

CDLehner

07-20-08, 09:09 PM

Found this. It may give you what you need.

http://xbmc.org/wiki/?title=TV_Shows

I think you hit it on the head Dan; has to do with file name. It says:

The defaults will match the following structures/filenames:

foo_[s01]_[e01] foo.1x09* foo.s01.e01, foo.s01_e01 foo.103*

Can anyone help me decypher? I assume foo is the show name?? Then season marker, episode marker; so how would Episode 1, of Season 1, of The Shield need to be named?

CD

dan4081

07-20-08, 10:31 PM

I think you hit it on the head Dan; has to do with file name. It says:

The defaults will match the following structures/filenames:

foo_[s01]_[e01] foo.1x09* foo.s01.e01, foo.s01_e01 foo.103*

Can anyone help me decypher? I assume foo is the show name?? Then season marker, episode marker; so how would Episode 1, of Season 1, of The Shield need to be named?

CD

This is what I could find, Example:
TV Shows\Alias - Season 1\1x01.avi
TV Shows\Alias - Season 1\1x02.avi
...
TV Shows\Alias - Season 2\2x01.avi
TV Shows\Alias - Season 2\2x01.avi
...
TV Shows\Alias - Season 3\3x01.avi
TV Shows\Alias - Season 3\3x01.avi

So I would guess you would name it:
The Shield-Season 1\1x01.Whatever format

CDLehner

07-20-08, 11:57 PM

This is what I could find, Example:
TV Shows\Alias - Season 1\1x01.avi
TV Shows\Alias - Season 1\1x02.avi
...
TV Shows\Alias - Season 2\2x01.avi
TV Shows\Alias - Season 2\2x01.avi
...
TV Shows\Alias - Season 3\3x01.avi
TV Shows\Alias - Season 3\3x01.avi

So I would guess you would name it:
The Shield-Season 1\1x01.Whatever format

Man, Dan is all over this. Unfortunately I'm not making any headway on this. I've tried a lot of combinations, directory and file, and I can't get show information to come even close.

CD

Ja Phule

07-21-08, 12:13 PM

Please post a picture. I dont see any.

We're talking about the "xbox memory cards" that the xbox uses, which are 8mb (or larger) memory cards that can be used to transfer gamesaves from xbox to xbox using the controllers. There are 2 big ports on the xbox controllers that can be used for headset unit or a memory card.

Ja Phule

07-21-08, 12:15 PM

CDLehner

07-21-08, 04:57 PM

CDLehner

07-21-08, 05:42 PM

I have my tv shows set up as:

Battlestar Galactica (2003)\Season 1\Battlestar Galactica (2003) - 1x01 - Title.avi

There is software out that will read your tv show file names and rename the files however you want (such as the the way i have it above).

http://www.epnamer.com/?p=11

OK, so here's where I'm a little confused and still running into problems. Everyone is suggesting renaming the file to pull content to, but I'm not getting the option to 'Set Content' or get 'TV Show Information' for the file, only on the folder. Which is fine by me, and I think should work because in 'Set Content' there is the option of 'folder contains a single TV show'.

OK, so here is my path...Videos\TV Shows\The West Wing\Season 1\The West Wing - 1x01 - Pilot. I didn't think the (year) was absolutely necessary, and I even renamed the file, inside this folder, The West Wing - 1x01 - Pilot.vob, but no dice with getting the info on the containing folder (like I said, it won't attach to the file...maybe that's my problem?).

Btw, the 1x01, is that episode 1 of season 1? So episode 2 of season 1 should be 2x01; episode 1 of season 2 1x02?

CD

Ja Phule

07-21-08, 06:27 PM

OK, so here's where I'm a little confused and still running into problems. Everyone is suggesting renaming the file to pull content to, but I'm not getting the option to 'Set Content' or get 'TV Show Information' for the file, only on the folder. Which is fine by me, and I think should work because in 'Set Content' there is the option of 'folder contains a single TV show'.

OK, so here is my path...Videos\TV Shows\The West Wing\Season 1\The West Wing - 1x01 - Pilot. I didn't think the (year) was absolutely necessary, and I even renamed the file, inside this folder, The West Wing - 1x01 - Pilot.vob, but no dice with getting the info on the containing folder (like I said, it won't attach to the file...maybe that's my problem?).

Btw, the 1x01, is that episode 1 of season 1? So episode 2 of season 1 should be 2x01; episode 1 of season 2 1x02?

CD

If you use the "folder contains a single tv show option" then it needs to be on the "Season 1" folder in your scenario. Instead, you can just set the content of the "TV Shows" folder to be tv shows and not use the contains single show option, you should also be using the thetvdb as the scraper.

CDLehner

07-21-08, 06:50 PM

If you use the "folder contains a single tv show option" then it needs to be on the "Season 1" folder in your scenario. Instead, you can just set the content of the "TV Shows" folder to be tv shows and not use the contains single show option, you should also be using the thetvdb as the scraper.

I'm sorry, my head is starting to spin. OK, I need to set the content at the top of the path...for the whole TV Shows folder? And then at what level do I attach each episodes information...the folder containing it?

Man, it's getting confusing. Is there a way to wipe out all of the set content so far and try starting over?

CD

Ja Phule

07-21-08, 07:37 PM

I'm sorry, my head is starting to spin. OK, I need to set the content at the top of the path...for the whole TV Shows folder? And then at what level do I attach each episodes information...the folder containing it?

Man, it's getting confusing. Is there a way to wipe out all of the set content so far and try starting over?

CD

If you set content for your whole "TV Shows" folder, then that is all you will need to set the content for. Everything within your "TV Shows" folder will be scanned automatically.

You can wipe your set contents by setting the content to none on all your folders and it will remove any tv show info in your library.

CDLehner

07-21-08, 07:56 PM

If you set content for your whole "TV Shows" folder, then that is all you will need to set the content for. Everything within your "TV Shows" folder will be scanned automatically.

You can wipe your set contents by setting the content to none on all your folders and it will remove any tv show info in your library.

OK JP...man, I feel like the dumbest XBMC guy alive...but...I'm going to name my top directory TV Shows, next down The Shield, then Season 1...ok, now...can I have another level of folder, to hold the multiple files for that episode, or do I need to have single files for each episode, within the Season 1 directory?

See, I think that's where I'm getting in trouble; if I had a single file for each episode, then I would be tv shows\the shield\season 1\the shield - season 1 - 1x01 - pilot.vob...is that right? Any way to do it with a folder to hold the episode files?

CD

Ja Phule

07-21-08, 08:08 PM

Yeah, I guess I was assuming you have 1 episode per file and not multiple files per episode. If you are going to keep your shows in dvd vob format, I would recommend that when you do your DVD ripping, that you rip each episode to 1 vob file. I've done it a few times using Decrypter, but it also varies by tv shows on how episodes are authored on dvd.

What may also work is:

The Shield - 1x01 - Pilot.part1.vob
The Shield - 1x01 - Pilot.part2.vob
The Shield - 1x02 - Title.part1.vob
The Shield - 1x02 - Title.part2.vob

When you see this in file mode, turn on file stacking then it should give you this (i think):
The Shield - 1x01 - Pilot.vob
The Shield - 1x02 - Title.vob

CDLehner

07-21-08, 08:11 PM

OK JP...man, I feel like the dumbest XBMC guy alive...but...I'm going to name my top directory TV Shows, next down The Shield, then Season 1...ok, now...can I have another level of folder, to hold the multiple files for that episode, or do I need to have single files for each episode, within the Season 1 directory?

See, I think that's where I'm getting in trouble; if I had a single file for each episode, then I would be tv shows\the shield\season 1\the shield - season 1 - 1x01 - pilot.vob...is that right? Any way to do it with a folder to hold the episode files?

CD

OK, I'd still rather have a folder that contains the episode files, but for kicks I moved an episode off the Season 1 folder, renamed it The Shield - 1x01 - Pilot.vob...set the TV Shows folder for The TVBD scraper and ran a scan. It took a while, like it was actually trying to retrieve some data...and it did tag some of the shows...but when I went into Library Mode and tried Media Info views, it said no plot available. So close!

CD

CDLehner

07-21-08, 08:13 PM

dan4081

07-21-08, 08:20 PM

I don't have multiple VOBs JP, but I've found that I need the 2, small IFOs and BUPs, that Shrink pulls with each episode, to get the scanning, screen ratios, subtitles, etc., etc. to come out right. At least with my old MG-35. Might have to rethink my rips with XBMC.

CD

I have found that ripping to iso's is so much "cleaner". One file only.

CDLehner

07-21-08, 08:22 PM

I have found that ripping to iso's is so much "cleaner". One file only.

I've really gotten used to Shrink, and hate to change. I'm gonna play some tonight and see what I can do.

Thanks guys; you've really been patient with me.

CD

Ja Phule

07-21-08, 08:36 PM

I've really gotten used to Shrink, and hate to change. I'm gonna play some tonight and see what I can do.

Thanks guys; you've really been patient with me.

CD

Shrink will also do ISO if that helps.

dan4081

07-21-08, 08:43 PM

I've really gotten used to Shrink, and hate to change. I'm gonna play some tonight and see what I can do.

Thanks guys; you've really been patient with me.

CD

I use shrink! Thats how I burn my iso's.
After you click the 'backup' button a window pops up asking where you want to save the video. On that window change the output to 'iso' and also make sure the name of the video you are saving is what you want it to be named.

CDLehner

07-21-08, 08:44 PM

Shrink will also do ISO if that helps.

Ah...so it does!

CD

ChrisFB

07-21-08, 08:50 PM

T3CH 6/16 is stable. Yes 7/15 is broken.

2 years between point release is a bit much

Belated thanks for the help on that. I'll transfer over and setup my media this weekend.

For a 5+ year old program rigged to work on an 8 year old console, this thread sure gets some activity. When I first modded XBMP back in 2003ish I figured that within a year or so this whole area would explode and all the "good ideas" would be implemented. Boy was I wrong. This would have been the greatest longshot bet ever against technology and innovation. For whatever reason (lawsuit maybe) no one has done anything that really compares to this.

I thought about the Linux route but after pricing for 1080p MKV compatibility (honking $200 processor since hardware decoding has very specific requirements) all in I figured it at around $800-1000 for what I wanted (I already have a BR/HD-DVD drive too). I also figured around 60 hours that I don't have building and tinkering. A Craigslist $35 xbox and I'm back in the game though and will use this as a spare after I build the HTPC next year.

CDLehner

07-21-08, 09:04 PM

Ah...so it does!

CD

Damn...well, as they say, better late than never. The ISOs work out real nice; single file, got the TVDB info (!), and I get my chapter skips and everything to work right (at least so far...that's what drove me to that other system to begin with...every TV series on DVD has a different structure!). Well, I guess I'll be doing some re-ripping, but it'll be worth it to get things dialed-in exactly like I want.

Thanks again,

CD

Oh, P.S. How do I make XBMC start-up in place of the UnleaseX dashboard; and make T3CH splash disappear?

dan4081

07-21-08, 09:12 PM

Oh, P.S. How do I make XBMC start-up in place of the UnleaseX dashboard; and make T3CH splash disappear?

The million dollar question!!
Sean Smith was helping me along with that but he seems to have stepped away for now. I read the step by step but cant figure it out and have been afraid to try it.

CDLehner

07-21-08, 09:55 PM

The million dollar question!!
Sean Smith was helping me along with that but he seems to have stepped away for now. I read the step by step but cant figure it out and have been afraid to try it.

OK, well...I've got plenty to keep me busy for now. It can wait until someone smarter than me breaks it down...lol.

CD

CDLehner

07-21-08, 10:13 PM

Well guys, it's been quite the 3 days. From the mod on Saturday, to the tweaking on Sunday, to actually making progress on Monday. I've got 2 Squeezebox music streamers, a PS3 and an MG-35; I really had no interest in XBMC except I thought...if I could make it work this way...that it would be cool for the bedroom, as a replacement for my MG-35. I almost exclusively watch ripped TV-on-DVD there, and wanted a player that could give me a nice GUI, cover art, plot synopsis, etc. Well, I can't say that it was easy, and it looks like I've got some re-rips in my future (which I should have done anyway...hindsight being 20/20 and all), but it's really starting to come together.

Just wanted to say a big thanks to all that helped, especially Dan who really took time to answer all the dumb, mod questions and was willing to PM as well. I said it before, but it's worth saying again...great community and support here in the XBMC world.

CD

Ja Phule

07-22-08, 10:20 AM

Damn...well, as they say, better late than never. The ISOs work out real nice; single file, got the TVDB info (!), and I get my chapter skips and everything to work right (at least so far...that's what drove me to that other system to begin with...every TV series on DVD has a different structure!). Well, I guess I'll be doing some re-ripping, but it'll be worth it to get things dialed-in exactly like I want.

Thanks again,

CD

Oh, P.S. How do I make XBMC start-up in place of the UnleaseX dashboard; and make T3CH splash disappear?

There's a readme for the T3CH build that discusses how to make XBMC your default dashboard. There are basically 2 shortcut xbe files that come with XBMC that you can use to make the xbox automatically run XBMC.

You can change the splash by going into the Media folder within XBMC. There's a file there called splash.png and there are other splash files that you can use if you prefer (just rename whatever you want to splash.png and that will be the startup logo or have none at all). I like spash-svn.png.

sean_w_smith

07-22-08, 01:52 PM

The million dollar question!!
Sean Smith was helping me along with that but he seems to have stepped away for now. I read the step by step but cant figure it out and have been afraid to try it.

I'm here.... There were some questions you needed to answer in my last post to you that we need to answer before we proceed.

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-22-08, 04:29 PM

Dan,

Here are my last round of questions again....

This helps. So does you box boot into Evo-X or some other dash. I woulld suspect evoxdash.xbe in your e:\ directory.

do you have a boot disc like AID or Frostys that you can successfully boot in case you mess this step up?

can your confirm your path to XBMC is:

e:\apps\xbmc\default.xbe (case does not matter)

I gotta go cut my grass but will check back later. We'll get this resolved. Thats like torture if you like XBMC to have to run it everytime you boot your xbox...

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-22-08, 04:31 PM

BTW: Did a bunch of XIR mods this weekend and some fans too....

some tips...

1. buy the simple one unless you really need the deluxe version
2. if you do buy the deluxe version get the USB versus the RS-232
3. The RS232 one was a PITA

Overall, very well built and very easy to install....

Sean

dan4081

07-22-08, 05:01 PM

sean_w_smith

07-22-08, 05:06 PM

Im sorry Sean. I had quoted your post and placed my answer in the middle of your quote. I guess you didnt see it.

Yes, that is the path for my XBMC.

OK but there are two other questions in there.

1. What dash are you booting into...
2. Do you have a working recovery disc like AID or Frostys that you have verified will boot (We need this to recover in case something goes wrong)...

As soon as I can verify this I will send you a file and we'll install it...

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-22-08, 05:28 PM

OK but there are two other questions in there.

1. What dash are you booting into...
2. Do you have a working recovery disc like AID or Frostys that you have verified will boot (We need this to recover in case something goes wrong)...

As soon as I can verify this I will send you a file and we'll install it...

Sean

OK I just re-read your hidden answer.... :)

So it boots into Evox. regardless of backups you need a working boot disc in case of emergency....

go ahead and get one of those off your favorite torrent site...

PM me if you dont know where to get em and we'll be ready to make it boot into XBMC...

Sean

dan4081

07-23-08, 11:33 AM

OK I just re-read your hidden answer.... :)

So it boots into Evox. regardless of backups you need a working boot disc in case of emergency....

go ahead and get one of those off your favorite torrent site...

PM me if you dont know where to get em and we'll be ready to make it boot into XBMC...

Sean

OK. I (finally) found Frostys rescue disc and downloaded it and burned to dvd!

sean_w_smith

07-23-08, 01:50 PM

OK. I (finally) found Frostys rescue disc and downloaded it and burned to dvd!

OK please validate your xbox can boot the disc and I will post the shortcut binary and some instructions later this afternoon...

Sean

CDLehner

07-23-08, 02:11 PM

OK. I (finally) found Frostys rescue disc and downloaded it and burned to dvd!

Dan, I like to follow this too. Can you help with where you found Frostys? Is there that big a chance of bricking with the switch?

CD

dan4081

07-23-08, 03:39 PM

Dan, I like to follow this too. Can you help with where you found Frostys? Is there that big a chance of bricking with the switch?

CD

I found it on rapidshare

sean_w_smith

07-23-08, 04:54 PM

Ok Dan,

Here's the deal....

The softmod you loaded is booting e:\evoxdash.xbe (which is the actual evox dash).

These procedure assumes that path to the main XBMC program is in e:\apps\xbmc\default.xbe

To make it boot XBMC we are going to do the following. We are going to replace the evox dashboard with a program that does nothing more than automatically run another program. in this case its XBMC.

The purpose of the recovery disk is that in case you mess this up you can boot it and FTP into the Xbox and correct your mistake. Do NOT re softmod if you mess this procedure up. Use FTP and the rescue disk. BTW: If you have not burned the backup files specifically eeprom.bin to a CD then I highly recommend doing that. Label the Disk and the Xbox with a Sharpie so you can identify which one is which. This makes recovery if the Hard Drive ever craps out a breeze...

Instructions for replacing EVOX with XBMC at bootup:
1. unzip the file attached to this message.
2. FTP into your xbox
3. browse to e:\
4. rename evoxdash.xbe to evoxdash.bak
5. FTP the file (evoxdash.xbe) from step 1 to e:\
6. cross fingers
7. reboot xbox and enjoy

I hope this is clear. If you want to ask more questions please do. Others if I missed something let me know and I will edit it.

NOTE: This shortcut I am providing was built with XBEShortCut Maker 2.0. It builds a hard coded shortcut versus the paramaterizable shortcut that the T3CH distribution uses.

Oops forgot the attachment.
Sean

dan4081

07-23-08, 05:00 PM

sean_w_smith

07-23-08, 05:29 PM

Fixed....

Sorry....

Sean

sean_w_smith

07-23-08, 05:36 PM

I found it on rapidshare

No there is a very small chance its an easy procedure but there are other ways to make it not boot.

most common is now that your Xbox boots XBMC if you mess up upgrading XBMC for some reason then you also need this disc. Its a free safety net....

I have done hundreds of upgrades and only messed up a few but when it happens it super handy to have the right tool.

Sean

dan4081

07-23-08, 05:47 PM

No there is a very small chance its an easy procedure but there are other ways to make it not boot.

most common is now that your Xbox boots XBMC if you mess up upgrading XBMC for some reason then you also need this disc. Its a free safety net....

I have done hundreds of upgrades and only messed up a few but when it happens it super handy to have the right tool.

Sean

It worked perfect!!

Thanks for the file AND the very easy instructions!!!!

sean_w_smith

07-23-08, 06:16 PM

Excellent... I hope you enjoy XBMC as much as I do....

Listening to some John Butler Trio via XBMC right now as I prepare for fajita night and Blade Runner on Blueray after dinner. Just got my side di-poles mounted and have a full 7.1 now.... A couple of the CES Blueray demos in DTS MA 7.1 are pretty cool..... Hopefully by christmas I will get the audio perfected. Measuring Room Acoustics is proving to be a black hole of time....

Sean

CDLehner

07-23-08, 07:09 PM

It worked perfect!!

Thanks for the file AND the very easy instructions!!!!

For me too Sean. Dan are you also interested in dumping the T3CH splash?

CD

dan4081

07-23-08, 08:31 PM

For me too Sean. Dan are you also interested in dumping the T3CH splash?

CD

I get the xbox splash for a second then it gos straight to xbmc. No T3CH splash at all.

CDLehner

07-23-08, 09:41 PM

I get the xbox splash for a second then it gos straight to xbmc. No T3CH splash at all.

Huh...I get the xbox splash for a sec, then a quick flicker (which I'm assuming is the program Sean says does nothing more than automatically run another program)...then the T3CH splash and XBMC. It's no big deal, but wouldn't mind be as clean as possible. Had you already done something to remove the T3CH splash, before this auto-boot to XBMC fix?

CD

dan4081

07-23-08, 09:57 PM

Huh...I get the xbox splash for a sec, then a quick flicker (which I'm assuming is the program Sean says does nothing more than automatically run another program)...then the T3CH splash and XBMC. It's no big deal, but wouldn't mind be as clean as possible. Had you already done something to remove the T3CH splash, before this auto-boot to XBMC fix?

CD

Nothing at all. Me and you have done the same step by step so I dont know why I dont get the screen and you do.
very strange......

I do have an issue with the xbox freezing once in a while when I click on Mypictures. Very random though.

Ja Phule

07-24-08, 01:08 AM

If you want to get rid of the T3CH splash, just delete the splash.png file in your XBMC\Media folder.

balkinator

07-25-08, 10:30 AM

is there a way to make a playlist for movie files?

sean_w_smith

07-25-08, 10:52 AM

is there a way to make a playlist for movie files?

yep... same way you do for audio.... This has been supported for years....

Sean

ChrisFB

07-25-08, 10:00 PM

Sean and JaPhule and any others,

Question here on organization and best practices. I've had XBMC for years and only within the past year or so have I messed with Library mode and scanning my TV shows and movies. What I'm wondering is - given the huge thread, is there a topic on the best way to have everything setup? I'll take opinions as I know everyone is different. I'd like to get everything pretty much solid where I'm only adding new content within an existing framework. Given that I've had to remod a new Xbox and recently expanded my server, I'm reevaluating my framework.

In my particular case I have things organized as so (for video files) for direct network shortcuts in the video root:

Movies - Standard feature films all in one folder

Childrens Movies - feature length animation like Toy Story, Shrek or Monster's Inc (this is actually a folder within Movies above, the only subfolder, but I have it as a separate shortcut also - I wonder if I should just move it to make it independent or whether it doesn't matter, the link through is nice as we sometimes flip in there from file mode without backing out - not essential)

Music Videos - a thousand loose ones and a number of subfolders organized by artist (never scanned this but it's on my agenda)

Television Shows - I have this pretty wired with a single content folder and then subfolders for each show and season along with proper naming (oddball pilots and extras are off but I don't think that's fixable)

Television Animation - Cartoons and such organized similar to TV shows. Have to work on a few things but all in all I think it's solid

Children's Videos - Baby Einstein and such, I don't think this thing scans. Haven't even bothered to link it in a long time but we have another on the way in November so it's worked back into the mix.

All opinions are welcome whether at macro or subfolder levels or any random tricks that people have. I'm running 6-16-2008 T3CH.

crashnburn_in

07-25-08, 10:28 PM

I have the 2008-06-30. I did not have any issues playing ISOs.

ChrisFB

07-26-08, 12:31 AM

I have the 2008-06-30. I did not have any issues playing ISOs.

7/15 both regular and fixed had issues. Someone recommended 6-16 as a stable recent build. That said, the stacking function leaves the .avi suffix on some videos even when the setting to hide the extensions is off for everything else. Small gripe as everything else seems rock solid.

sean_w_smith

07-26-08, 05:20 PM

ChrisFB

07-27-08, 06:08 PM

I have my library layed out similarly. I only use Library mode on Video for DVD's which I keep in a single folder. I have tons of Engligh, German, and Japanese car and racing videos which I have in there own hierarchy and I have a hierarchy of ski and snowboard videos by year. None of these things I have found a scraper that works for em so I just use em in file mode.

I have concert DVD's in a separate flat folder but again I dont scan those....

Sean

Got it. I've mainly been operating XBMC in isolation so I was thinking there might be something else out there I hadn't come across yet or didn't know about.

Thanks.

Ja Phule

07-28-08, 01:17 AM

I've got mine similar to sean's. I have a folder for DVDs, folder for movie only avi and folder for tv shows all set up to be scanned to the library. I have my anime in separate folder. I have a lot of music videos but I haven't had a chance to test out the scraper on those.

bahndit

07-29-08, 06:53 PM

Ja Phule,
I am working on setting up my DVD server using xbmc(on an xbox). I have been ripping my movies as .iso but I am having problems on the xbox side with playback (i.e. music starts but never leaves xbmc gui, after you press play in the menu of a DVD the playback of the disc hangs for awhile before it starts). I am currently running the latest t3ch build (T3CH XBMC 2008-07-28 SVN rev14439) and the Aeon skin (xbox mode enabled and backgrounds resized to 720P). I know that people have memory problems with the Aeon skin but I have the same issues whether I am in Aeon or Project Mayham III. The server is also plenty beefy (P4 2.4ghz, 1GB Ram, Gigabit Ethernet). Let me know what you think. Any advice would be much appreciated.

-Bahndit