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Xbox 360 - The Right Way To Fix The Red Ring Of Death

Are there three red lights flashing around the power button of your Xbox 360? Perhaps the audio also makes static sounds or the video freezes. You may even see pin strips or checkers on your screen.

by DanStrong

Are there three red lights flashing around the power button of your Xbox 360? Perhaps the audio also makes static sounds or the video freezes. You may even see pin strips or checkers on your screen.

In any case, the three red lights indicate a well known problem often called the red ring of death. As with any emergency situation (if you're serious about your gaming this is an emergency), you need to think things through first before you act.

Believe it or not, your console may not require any repair at all. You may not have to use your warranty. It all depends on your particular situation.

First, there may not be anything wrong with your Xbox. Power surges and problems with power supply often trigger the three red lights. So if you are using a surge protector, bypass it and plug the console directly into the wall outlet.

Check the electrical power at the wall outlet. Plug in a lamp and see if the light flickers or is dimmer than normal.

You may have a cable or cord that's not properly attached. Detach and reconnect them again. If they look damaged, replace them. Also disconnect and reconnect the hard drive as well.

One more reason for the red ring of death is too much heat. The Xbox has a substandard cooling system that barely keeps up with the heat generated by it's electronics. Consequently it's easily overheated.

You may get 3 red lights before any actual internal damage has occurred. If so, you must make sure that the console always runs cool.

This means you will have to restrict your Xbox usage to two hours at a time. You will also need to keep the Xbox in a place that stays cool and has plenty of ventilation. Be sure that the console is kept away from any heat generating objects. Never run your Xbox inside a closed in space.

Pay attention to the cooling vents. They must always be kept clear of anything that might obstruct air flow into them. This includes keeping the Xbox off of shaggy carpets.

If these recommendations don't work, then your Xbox could be heat damaged. You may either make use of the warranty or do the repair on your own.

Using the warranty typically is slower than just doing the repair yourself. However, you should purchase a good repair guide.

This is not a job that can be figured out on your own. If you get the right guide and follow the directions carefully, you'll have no problems.

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Got an Xbox that runs too hot? Get Xbox troubleshooting information about fixing the Xbox 360 red ring of death.