How To Open An Xbox

If you want to make a modification to your Xbox system, but aren't sure where to start, don't just start trying to pull it apart, first you need to learn how to open an Xbox. You can open an Xbox for a variety of reasons; you can make modifications to the hardware, such as the motherboard. You can fix the physical components like the front buttons, or you can even install a custom case and LED lights. If you open an Xbox, take note that you will void the warranty, and it will cost you an arm and a leg if you need to send the unit to Microsoft for repairs. Be careful around your open Xbox as there is an exposed power supply that will hold electricity even when the unit has been off for a long time.

Things you will need:

• T20 screwdriver
• T10 screwdriver
• Utility knife

1. Unplug the Xbox. Remove any cables and turn the unit over.
2. Pull back on one of the rubber feet on the corners of the Xbox. Use your T20 screwdriver to remove the screw under the foot. Repeat this for each of the other three corner screws.
3. Remove the "Xbox" sticker and the bar code sticker to reveal two more T20 screws. Remove the screws.
4. Turn the Xbox over. Lift up on the top cover to open the Xbox.
5. Pull back on the IDE cable, removing in from the back of the hard disk on the right side of your open Xbox.
6. Remove the T10 screw located to the left of the hard disk drive, near the back. Then loosen the power cable from its track on the right side of the hard disk. Finally, pull up on the hard disk to remove it.
7. Pull the two cables out of the back side of the DVD drive. Then remove the two T10 screws near the front two corners of the DVD drive. Pull up to remove the DVD drive. You now have access to your motherboard and have successfully opened an Xbox.