List of Xbox 360 accessories

A/V connectors and cables Various official A/V cables are available for the Xbox 360, which allow it to connect to a broad range of audio and video equipment. Originally available in grey, all cables were replaced by black versions (which also differ in design) with the launch of the Xbox 360 S in June/July 2010. All official cables (except for the HDMI cable) connect to the Xbox 360's A/V connector and are compatible with all Xbox 360 models. Analog stereo audio is output by these cables by RCA connectors, with the exception of the Advanced SCART A/V Cable, where it is delivered via the SCART connector's audio pins. With the exception of the VGA HD A/V Cable cable and HDMI Audio Adapter, all cables are also capable of outputting SD video at 480i/60 Hz (NTSC or PAL60, depending on console region) and 576i/50 Hz (PAL; only available on PAL region consoles). A TOSLINK optical S/PDIF connector was integrated into the A/V connector (console side) of many pre-2010 (grey) Xbox 360 A/V cables, allowing output of stereo LPCM, Dolby Digital 5.1 and Dolby Digital with WMA Pro audio. These do not feature on current A/V cables. All official A/V-based cables (except the HDMI Audio Adapter) physically block the HDMI port when plugged into equipped models; on pre-2010 (grey) cables this is due to the size of the connector, while 2010 (black) cables feature a plastic tab for this purpose. All European Xbox 360 consoles ship with a Microsoft branded composite/stereo audio to SCART adapter block in addition to whichever standard A/V cable the model in question ships with. This allows the composite video cable and other RCA-composite capable cables to be used with SCART equipped televisions. The signal is not changed in any way and the adapter does not offer any improvement in quality over a direct composite connection. It is not to be confused with the advanced SCART cable, which uses the superior RGB standard. a Supported HDTV resolutions (all displayed at 60 Hz): 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p b Supported PC resolutions (all displayed in 60 Hz progressive scan): 640 × 480 (equivalent to 480p, 4:3), 848 × 480 (equivalent to 480p, 16:9), 1024 × 768, 1280 × 720 (equivalent to 720p), 1280 × 768, 1280 × 1024, 1360 × 768, 1440 × 900, 1680 × 1050, 1920 × 1080 (equivalent to 1080p) c When YPBPR connection is used HD-DVDs and streamed 1080p video will not be output at 1080p, but will be downscaled to 1080i or lower, while DVDs will not be upscaled, only deinterlaced (480p maximum). d With the 2010 cable refresh, the composite-out capabilities were removed from the Component HD A/V Cable. HD DVD Player Player The Xbox 360 HD DVD Player is a discontinued accessory which allows playback of HD DVDs. It was announced by Bill Gates during his 2006 keynote speech at CES. It was officially presented at E3 2006 and was launched on November 7, 2006. The drive uses USB to connect to the Xbox 360 which processes and outputs the audio and video. The HD DVD player also features two extra USB ports on the rear, a Universal Media Remote, as well as a clip for attaching the wireless network adapter. The drive cannot be used to play Xbox or Xbox 360 game titles, and all Xbox 360 games continue to use DVD-9 media. Headsets Wired Headset The Xbox 360 Wired Headset allows gamers to use in-game voice chat, private chat, party chat, voice for video chat and in-game voice recognition in games such as ''Tom Clancy's EndWar. The headset can also be used with a PC but requires a controller to do so. It features an in-line volume control and a mute switch. There are two versions of the headset, which feature differently shaped connectors. This was to allow compatibility with the Chatpad keyboard accessory (the original version will not fit on the Chatpad). The foam elements on the headset are prone to fading over time. A dark grey headset would soon turn into a light grey one. A wired headset is bundled with every console other than Core/Arcade models, as well as with the messenger kit and the Xbox Live Starter Pack''. In addition to the first party headset, Plantronics produces a range of officially licensed wired headsets for the Xbox 360. Additionally, many standard mobile phone hands-free kits which feature 2.5 mm connectors will also function as headsets, although this is not officially supported. Similarly, the Xbox headset can be used in many devices that support 2.5 mm headsets. Wireless Headset The Xbox 360 Wireless Headset performs the same task as the wired headset, but connects using the same 2.4 GHz wifi technology as the wireless controller, rather than by a physical connector, allowing it to function within a 30 ft/9 m range (approx) and can be used with or without a controller connected to the console. Up to four wireless headsets can be used simultaneously on a single Xbox 360. The headset features a built-in rechargeable battery, which lasts up to 8 hours, and comes with a USB charger and an instruction manual. The headset fits over either ear and comes with two sizes of removable ear grips for a better fit. Wireless Headset with Bluetooth In late 2011, Microsoft replaced the Wireless Headset with a completely redesigned model, which is glossy black, designed to more closely resemble Xbox 360 S consoles, and also capable of connection to Bluetooth devices such as mobile phones and computers. Live Vision camera The Xbox Live Vision camera was announced at E3 2006 and was released in North America on September 19, 2006, and Europe and Asia on October 2, 2006 (November 2, 2006, in Japan). There are many games which have camera functionality included, some of which are: Uno, TotemBall, Burnout Paradise (only during online play, when you are taken down and the camera sends a picture of you at the moment of being taken down), ''Texas Hold'em, Spyglass Board Games, Pinball FX, Hardwood Backgammon, Hardwood Hearts and Hardwood Spades''. For a full list see main article. The ability to create an in-game representation of a player is possible using this camera and a suitable game, similar to Sony's EyeToy for the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation Eye for the PlayStation 3. The retail games ''Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six: Vegas and Vegas 2'' allow players to create an in-game version of their face with this feature. The dashboard software released on June 13, 2006, added an option in the system tab to support its functions. Users with the Fall 2010 dashboard update will be able to use the Live Vision camera to video chat with users of the Kinect as well as start video conferences with Windows Live Messenger users. The Xbox Live Vision Camera is also used in Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise, and ''You're in the Movies''. ==Storage==

Detachable hard drives Optional detachable SATA hard drives are used for the storage of games, music, downloaded trailers, levels, demos, player preferences, and community-created content from Xbox Live Marketplace. It may also be used to transfer such content between Xbox 360 units. It is required to play original Xbox games and a select number of Xbox 360 games. The total capacity of the Xbox 360 hard drive is either 20 GB, 60 GB, 120 GB, 250 GB, 320 GB, or 500 GB. Initially, 250 GB hard drives were only available through third-party manufacturers or through the purchase of a special-edition Xbox 360 console bundle, but from 2010, it was being sold as a separate accessory in Japan, North America, and the UK. Currently, the 320 GB hard drive is only available as part of either limited/special edition Xbox 360 S bundles it is not available for original Xbox 360 models. Of the total storage capacity, approximately 6 GB is reserved for system use; around 4 GB of that portion is reserved for game title caching and other hard drive-specific elements in games that support the hard drive and an additional 2 GB is reserved for use by the Xbox 360 backwards-compatibility software. This leaves users with approximately 14, 54, 114, 244, or 314 GB (displayed as 14, 52, 107, 228, or 292 GiB) of free space on the drive. Depending on the market, the hard drive comes preloaded with content, such as videos and Xbox Live Arcade games or demos. Hard drives designed for the original models of Xbox 360 are not directly compatible with Xbox 360 S models and vice versa. However, if removed from its case, the 2.5-inch SATA hard drive within older model HDD units may be inserted into the Xbox 360 S hard drive slot and will function normally. On August 20, 2010, Microsoft announced a 250 GB stand-alone hard drive for use with Xbox 360 S models priced at US$129.99 The actual drives inside their respective casings are standard 2.5" (laptop-size) SATA hard disk drives loaded with special firmware. However, the Microsoft versions are notably more expensive than standard drives. Memory units Small, portable, flash-based memory devices allow the transfer of saved games, unique gamer profiles, and content downloaded from Xbox Live Marketplace to other Xbox 360 consoles. They were discontinued upon the release of the redesigned Xbox 360 S, which had no memory card slots. Sizes available were: • 64 MB memory card • 256 MB memory card (Supplied only with Xbox 360 Arcade models prior to December 2008.) • 512 MB memory card (Was pre-loaded with the Xbox Live Arcade game Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved for a limited time. Later units were pre-loaded with the Xbox Live Arcade game Worms. Still later units came with a keychain carry case.) Some game saves and downloaded content cannot be copied from hard drives to memory cards. What content cannot be moved is up to the discretion of the individual video game developers. Example games with unmovable content: Datel Xsata The Datel Xsata is an unlicensed accessory that sits between the 360's drive and the console itself and is used to transfer materials from the console's hard drive to a Windows PC. Use of this device to transfer saved game files for the purpose of unlocking achievements is prohibited by Microsoft in the Xbox Live Terms of Service agreement. The Xsata can also be used to modify a player's avatar using software such as Modio or other freeware that can be found on the internet. FATXplorer can also be used in conjunction with the Xsata for file transfer. Datel Data Transfer Kit '''Datel's Transfer Kit''' for Xbox 360 allows users to transfer data from their Xbox 360 memory cards to a PC. USB storage devices The Xbox 360 can read USB storage devices such as thumb drives, Zunes, iPods (except iPod Touch and iPhone), MP3 players, PSPs, and hard drives, however an Optional Media Update is required to play music and other files from certain music players, this is available from the Xbox Live Marketplace. The devices which have been previously mentioned can be used to play music, or to view pictures and videos. FAT, FAT32 and HFS+ file systems are supported, but NTFS and exFAT are not. On March 26, 2010, Microsoft announced a system update allowing the use of standard USB flash drives to store game profiles, saves, demos, and other Xbox 360 content would be coming on April 6. According to Major Nelson, any USB flash drive over 1 GB can be configured for use, with up to 16 GB per device and two devices per system. He also announced that Microsoft will be partnering with SanDisk to create Xbox 360 branded USB flash drives that will come pre-configured for use right out of the box. With the Fall 2012 Dashboard update, released on October 16, 2012, the flash drive size limit has been increased to 32 GB. A Dashboard update on April 30, 2015, increased the storage limit to 2 TB. ==Cooling products==

Nyko Intercooler 360 The Nyko Intercooler 360 is designed to reduce the internal operating temperature of the 360 and as a result, to prolong lifespan of the console. It connects to the exterior of the Xbox 360. There is no internal modification of the Xbox 360 required. A pass through power connection utilizes the existing Xbox 360 power supply, negating the need for an extra AC adapter. The unit also powers on and off automatically with the system and the Intercooler's small size fit in tight spaces like entertainment centers with the 360 placed in either horizontal or vertical orientation. Many consumers, as well as the press, claim it scorches their consoles, "steals" power from the system, and even causes the red ring of death, which the device may have been used to avoid. However, Nyko later released the Intercooler EX which has a new AC adaptor made of metal and therefore solves the problem with power "stealing", scorching of the console, and the plug falling off. At E3 2008, Nyko announced a new revised sleeker model of the Intercooler named the Intercooler TS. This new model is smaller than previous models and blends in with the console. Its main feature is called TempSmart, a temperature sensing technology which automatically powers on the Intercooler's fans when needed, and continues to cool the console even after the console has been switched off until a proper ambient temperature has been reached. It is also powered by its own AC adapter, so no batteries or USB cables to the console are necessary. Gamexpert Cooler King (UK) / Pelican Air Flo Cooler (USA) The Cooler King is an external fan for the 360, featuring a 4-port USB hub and AV connections. Official Xbox 360 AV cables cannot be used with the Cooler King as it lacks the AV port usually on the Xbox 360, so players must use third-party Component/Composite cables. This cooler also has VGA support allowing the Xbox 360 to be connected to some monitors and TVs using a VGA cable. This cooler will not work with the newer HDMI-compatible Xbox 360s. Pelican Fan Stand The Pelican Fan Stand provides a different approach to cooling the Xbox 360. Instead of clipping on to the back like the Cooler King or Intercooler, the fan is situated in a base extension that the console can sit on only in the upright position. The placement of the fan allows it to draw cooler air from beneath the console and blow it out through the back. It uses a single USB plug to draw power from the Xbox. This makes a switch necessary to turn off the fan, allowing it to continue cooling after the console has been turned off unlike the Cooler King or the current Intercooler. ==Other accessories==

Faceplates The default faceplate (black or white) can be replaced with a range of custom designs. The prices of these custom designs are typically around $20. Microsoft distributed three promotional faceplates, one for those present at the Electronic Entertainment Expo 2005 unveiling, one for those at the Zero Hour Xbox 360 launch event, and one for VIP X05 attendees. While faceplates mostly exist for aesthetic reasons they also direct airflow, deter dust and particles, and protect the disc tray and memory slots. Final Fantasy XIII Xbox 360 Elite consoles come with an additional faceplate with Final Fantasy XIII based artwork. Faceplates are not compatible with Xbox 360 S or E consoles. Controller faceplates Xbox 360 controller faceplates can be removed and replaced with a range of custom designs, each of which are sold separately. Red Octane has a range of official alternative faceplates for various Guitar Hero controllers and various third-party companies such as Mad Catz make unofficial faceplates for the standard Xbox 360 controller. Custom cases Many unofficial custom cases can be purchased from independent manufacturers and are available in a wide range of colors and styles. The original outer casing of the console may be removed using special tools often provided with custom cases but also sold separately, allowing said case to be fitted. Custom cases are generally based on moulds of official cases but with all Microsoft branding removed. As such, they do not change the size or shape of the console, only the aesthetics. Custom cases are not endorsed by Microsoft, and removing the official case will void any warranty on the console. Companies which manufacture such cases include Talismoon, Lian Li, XCM and XSPC. Custom cases are not limited to the consoles themselves as several companies also manufacture custom Xbox 360 controller shells and hard drive shells to match their console counterparts. Wireless network adapter Two official Wi-Fi adapters are available for the Xbox 360, both of which connect through a USB port. The first version released supports 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g connections, features a single antenna and is only available in white. On October 5, 2009, Gamestop revealed a new version of the wireless networking adapter which features support for 802.11n networks in addition to those supported by its predecessor. This version features two antennas to ensure adequate 802.11n connectivity, and is only available in black. Encryption mechanisms available when using both versions were initially limited to WEP and WPA, with WPA2 support added on October 28, 2009, via a system software update. In addition to the official Wi-Fi adapters, third-party wireless bridges may also be used with the Xbox 360. These are connected through the Ethernet port and recognized by the Xbox 360 as a wired connection, but offer the same or similar functionality. It is also possible to connect an Xbox 360 to internet through another system's connection by using connection sharing systems. Using an official Wi-Fi adapter or third-party wireless bridge, the console can automatically detect and link up with other Xbox 360 consoles that are within range and form an ad hoc network. In revised "slim" models of the Xbox 360, 802.11n connectivity is integrated into the console. However, the integrated adapter is only able to connect to 2.4 GHz networks, so the first-party adapter or a third party bridge is still required to connect to 5 GHz networks. Exergaming Two exergaming accessories have been designed for the Xbox 360, Dance Dance Revolution Universe and Gamercize, are currently available. Through backward compatibility the Yourself!Fitness instructional game for the Xbox can also be used. Since then, the more versatile official Kinect accessory has been used. ==References==