Top Tips on Xbox 360 Maintenance

By Jack Thompson

At a cost of nearly $400 for the Xbox Modern Warfare 2 Limited Edition Elite Console and around $300 for the regular Elite Console, the Xbox 360 can be a significant investment for gamers. Including the cost of important accessories such as extra controllers and a universal remote, the price of a top of the line Xbox system can be hundreds.

Even though this system can represent a serious investment, many gamers lose sight of the importance of practicing proper maintenance for their Xbox 360 in the thrill of the gaming this system provides. Gamers will often treat their console as if it were indestructible - at least until the much feared "red ring of death" shows up as a reminder that this system does need to be cared for properly. Once this sign appears, it is often a sign that you need to change your ways and fast if you hope to keep your console working.

However, you can keep your Xbox 360 in good working order as long as you follow the maintenance tips below. The important thing is to protect your Xbox from heat, dirt and dust - the three things which can take your console out of commission.

In order to keep your Xbox 360 from overheating, it is essential to give your console a rest from time to time, especially during those marathon gaming sessions. Just taking a 30 minute break every couple of hours can make all the difference. Keep your Xbox 360 away from heaters and direct sunlight and off of blankets, carpets and other materials which tend to trap heat to prevent overheating.

Electronics like amplifiers are also sources of heat which can cause overheating in your Xbox 360; keep your console clear of these products. You should also avoid using your console while it is in an unventilated area such as a closed entertainment center. Your Xbox 360 needs adequate ventilation in order to disperse heat - the best places for using your Xbox are rooms where there is air conditioning or where you can position a fan to provide ventilation for your console. If you use external cooling accessories with your Xbox 360, make sure to power them from a wall outlet rather than using your console for power.

To prevent dust and dirt from damaging your Xbox 360, do not keep it near any places which dust collects such as open windows. One place which a lot of gamers tend to store their Xbox is a definite no-no: underneath the bed. When you are not using your Xbox 360, consider using a protective cover to prevent dust and dirt from getting into the unit.

If you take your Xbox with you when traveling, you should get a carrying case for it which provides adequate padding and protection from dust and dirt as you carry it around.

Protect your Xbox from dust by making sure that the areas that you store and use your console in are kept clean and free of dust. The same goes for your Xbox 360 discs; these too can be damaged by dust and dirt and should always be kept in their cases when not in use. You should also make your gaming room a no smoking area - smoke can damage your Xbox system, so take it outside if you must indulge.

You have made a significant investment in your Xbox 360, so why not treat it like one? You can enjoy your console for much longer if you simply follow the common sense maintenance tips given here; the extra gaming excitement you will receive more than makes up for the small amount of maintenance. - 29852

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