Microsoft Xbox

For more information, see this article's corresponding Wikipedia page: Xbox (console).

This device is in the WorkNeeded:OriginalParts category because it was flagged as missing information on the original parts. It may have replacement parts listed but those cannot be assumed to be identical to the originals. If you have a list of the original parts, please feel free to add them by copying the relevant table from EditorsToolbox:Tables

This device is in the WorkNeeded:ReplacementParts category because it was flagged as missing information on replacement parts. If it has the original parts listed you may be able to search for replacements using the parametric searches available from parts distributors. If you have or make a list of replacement parts, please feel free to add them by copying the relevant table from EditorsToolbox:Tables

Microsoft Xbox

Preliminary Information
Release Year	2001
Leak Risk	High
Batteries	None
Mounting Technology	Through Hole, SMD, BGA
Capacitor Types	tbd
Destructive Entry	No

Known Issues

The original Xbox, up to the last version produced (pre v1.6) contains a capacitor used to keep the date and time (C1010, next to a bank of larger caps). Unfortunately, due to capacitor manufacturing defects present during this era of computing, the capacitor used for this purpose is very well known for failure, similar to a lot of classic Macintosh computers. It is highly recommended to remove or replace this capacitor, as it is basically guaranteed to leak and cause damage to the motherboard.

Internal clock resets upon power loss

Causes

• The aerogel supercapacitor responsible for keeping the RTC online has failed.

Solutions

• Replace the capacitor.
• Remove the capacitor, but manually set the time upon rebooting after power loss. (Version 1.6 boards require this capacitor and will fail to boot without it)
• Connect your Xbox to the internet so that it can synchronize with a timeserver on boot. (Requires custom dashboard)

System powers on when connected to mains - front panel buttons do not function

Causes

• The RTC aerogel supercapacitor has failed, and caused corrosion to traces on the PCB relating to the front panel buttons.

Solutions

• Ensure there is continuity between the PIC16 or Xyclops chip and the signal resistors as well as between the signal resistors and front panel pin header, replacing traces where needed.

Disc drive no longer reads discs or disc tray is malfunctioning

Causes

• The rubber drive belt has degraded
• The read laser has failed

Solutions

• Replace the drive belt. A 15mm diameter belt is required, the belts from the Xbox & Xbox 360 are interchangeable.
• Replace the entire drive

System does not power on - no signs of life

Causes

• The power supply unit has failed
• The capacitors around the 20 pin connector have failed (v1.6)

Solutions

• Replace power supply unit
• Recap system board. On a 1.6 version unit, the 4 caps around the 20 pin connector are usually the culprit.

Save file corruption

Causes

• The hard drive is failing

Solutions

• Replace the hard drive
• Alternatively, move your save files to a memory unit

Disassembly Notes

See disassembly tab for step-by-step guide.

• The four rubber feet on the underside of the device are held in with strong adhesive. If you want them to remain after disassembly, peel them back (from the outer edge of the device) just enough to expose the screw heads.
• The internal IDE ribbon cable is over a decade old, so be very gentle with it. Bending it too many times will damage the internal connections, rendering it flaky or inoperable.
• The power supply is fully exposed once the Xbox drive units are removed. Be very careful not to shock yourself on it.

Recommended Tools

Fastener Drivers

Fastener Types	Sizes	Notes
Torx	T10	For main internal screws
Torx	T15	For HDD retention screws on some revisions
Torx	T20	For all external screws
Phillips	PH2	For internal drive screws

Other Hand Tools

Tool	Notes
Pry Tool	To peel back the rubber feet on the underside of the device

Original Parts

v1.6 Motherboard (Taiwan)

Capacitor Specifications and Footprint Information

RefDes	Qty	Capacitance	Voltage	Mount	Diameter/Size	Temp	Type	Brand	Series	Visual note
C2F1?, ?	2	3300 µF	10v	THT Radial			Aluminum Electrolytic	Nichicon		Brown sheath, "PW(M)"
C1E1, C2E4, ?	3	3300 µF	6.3v	THT Radial			Aluminum Electrolytic	Nichicon		Black sheath, "HM(M)"
C6B4, C5B6, C5A9, C6__?, C5A4?	5+		1.6v?	SMT Radial						Deceptive markings? "¤33 10 16v"

Incomplete table

Replacement Parts

Basic PCB Name

RefDes	Qty	Compatible Part Number	Distributor Links [ Preferred / Search ]
			Digikey		Mouser		Farnell
	1	DZ-2R5D105T / 105DCN2R7S	Part	🔎	Part

If parts are not available or different selection is preferred, you can use the values in the Original Parts section to perform a parametric search.

Note: It is recommended to not replace the clock cap, it was only ever intended to store the date and time for an hour so not having it doesn't really affect anything.

Note 2: You can install a higher capacitance part to increase the storage time (up to 10F ) however this could potentially cause issues with the charging circuit.

Kits

• Digikey BOM: https://www.digikey.com/

Related Links

• Hardware Revisions - xboxdevwiki
• Mr.Mario2011 - How to Remove an Original Xbox Clock Capacitor (v1.0 - 1.5)