Posted: Tue Dec 27, 2005 4:50 am Post subject: New XBOX, Softmodded, Getting Error code 7. Please advise...
Hi,
First of all I would like to say thanks to all the great people who have contributed to this site with special mention going to nknave and DJB for their excellent programs.
I have successfully used SID 3 and AID 2.11 to softmod four of my friends' XBOXes and all have gone without a problem.
With that said, I am now in need of your help.
On Christmas I received my first XBOX. This is a brand new system that was purchased from Wal-Mart last week.
All excited that I finally had my own XBOX to toy with and Filled with confidence of having done it FOUR times , I promptly proceeded with the softmod.
I transferred the James Bond AUF game save to the hard drive, loaded the save using AUF, booted into SID 3, backed up the msdash, installed the softmod and the unleashx dash.(I can't remember the exact details, but I did everything like usual.) Then I inserted the AID Disc, installed the nkpatcher & msdash 5960, and installed unleashx as the default dash to C:. I then installed XBOX Media Center & DVD-X 2.0 as apps & surreal 64 as an emulator, again everything went Fine. I loaded about 25 Roms to the Surreal 64 folder then I proceeded to test out my new setup.
I used DVD-X to load a DVD Video and this is where I first ran into the Error Code 7. Unfortunately, I did not have access to a computer where I was so I couldn't verify what the error code 7 was. (I now know that it means HDD Timeout.)
I rebooted the XBOX and the disc played fine, so I attributed the error to a fluke and continued testing. (dumbass!)
I loaded the Surreal64 emulator, tested a couple of N64 games till I got to one that froze. This time when I rebooted the XBOX I got the Error Code 7 and have not been able to get rid of it since. ( I must have power cycled it 30 times, with tray open and without. I have also gently tapped it hoping to set a loose wire, all to no avail) The Hard Disk makes a clicking/knocking noise like the head is constantly moving back and forth, which would explain the HDD timeout.
I did notice before it crapped out that this XBOX is a Version 1.0, which seemed weird considering it is brand new and the box it came in references games from 2005. However, a quick check on the underside reveals that it has a MFG date of July 24th, 2002 which I believe corresponds to a version 1.0.
My question to you is how should I proceed now? I have no way of knowing if this error is simply due to a dislodged IDE cable or a defective Disk without disassembling the XBOX and completely voiding the warranty.
Do I return the XBOX “as is” with the softmod on it taking the chance that they will simply replace it?
Or do I take the plunge and crack this baby open, where a worst case scenario would mean that I would have to buy a modchip to be able to install a new HDD?
Sorry for the long winded post, but I figure the more information that I provide the easier it will be to help me.
Thank you,
Jon
nknave Xbox-HQ Freak
Joined: Jul 13, 2005 Posts: 866 Location: Kansas City MO
Posted: Tue Dec 27, 2005 7:11 am Post subject:
I've runned to error 7 couple times, with my old xbox.
this is what happend to me, and it could be similar to yours.
My xbox had a cold cathode ring inside powered by the molex, but the molex was having some loose wigging, and i was contantly running to error code 7, this was either cause the 5 volt, or the 12 volt cable was shorting, or not making contact. I'm not sure what it was.
I tighnen' the connections, and worked, after i figuerd out that the molex slpitter form the cathode ring, was wiggly.
Also, removing it and havin the molex directly to hdd, will save it.
As for you, if you don't have some molex mods, than you simply have to make sure that both IDE and molex cables are properly plugged on your xbox hdd.
Good Luck.
Oh, and nothing to do with DVD-X
Molex=Cable that powers the hdd, has 2 grounds (black cables), and a red wire(5 vold), and a yellow wire(12 vol)
Hopes this helps. _________________ Xbox v1.1
TSOP EvoxM8+ 1mb
Avalunch SAC skin
Hitachi LG DVD-ROM
300 GiG Maxtor HDD
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 22, 2005 Posts: 13
Posted: Tue Dec 27, 2005 2:00 pm Post subject:
Also if you do decide to open the unit, check your Data (Ribbon) cable
Sometimes they do come lose as I have experienced it after doing
a Mod or 2.
Good Luck.
Max
jonadagi2 Xbox-HQ Enthusiast
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 12, 2005 Posts: 25 Location: Canada
Posted: Tue Dec 27, 2005 5:30 pm Post subject: video of HDD problem attached.
Thanks for your replies.
I decided that the best option was to open this baby up. This was a virgin box and had never been physically modded, but I think it's time to have some fun!
I checked all of the wire connections, IDE and molex include. I disconnected and reconnected the cables and the drive continues to emit the same noises.
Next step was to disassemble the drive, after all what do I have to lose.
I have posted a rar'ed wmv video of the problem in action.
Please take a look at it and let me know if you have any ideas as to what I can do.
Jon.
P.S. if you want I can post the video in a different format, it was just quickest for me to do it as a wmv.
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 01, 2005 Posts: 540 Location: Somewhere south of Seattle
Posted: Thu Dec 29, 2005 1:29 am Post subject:
I believe that the V1.0 & V1.1 have a WD HDD and the noises that you explained sound like it's going bad! I've had more that a few WD Hdd's that go "click-clank click-clank" over and over and all of those were bad.
If it was bought it at Wal-Mart you might want to check that the s/n is the same as the one on the box (if there is one I can't remember). I say that because, if someone started having problems with their Xbox and then bought a new one so that they could return the old one in the new box, and the "Wonder Boys" at Wal-mart may have decided to repack it and resell it. You could also check to see if it was registered already with M$, that would be a dead give away. _________________ I think I like fixing Boxes more than using them!
Naaaah!
-Lee
jonadagi2 Xbox-HQ Enthusiast
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 12, 2005 Posts: 25 Location: Canada
Posted: Thu Dec 29, 2005 4:49 am Post subject:
Lee,
Thanks for your reply.
The "click clank, click clank" is exactly what my XBOX HDD is doing.
Your theory of the "wonder boys" re-packing an XBOX is definitely plausible. It would explain why I have received a version 1.0 XBOX when I expected a version 1.6.
However, after examining the box it came in I can't find any serial numbers on it or any otehr numebr that comes close to what is on the XBOX itself. I can say that the system I received was in mint conditon and if it had been previously used someone took great care with it.
Anyways, at this point all of this is irrelevant as I have already cracked it open and there's no looking back since nobody would be willing to take it back now!
I don't know if you have taken a look at the video I posted, but I was wondering if you had any suggestions as to what I can do now. I already tried tinkering with the HDD itself but it continues to wail like a 60's typewriter.
I think the chances are slim that I will be able to get it working even though that would be my best option. I would just need it working long enough to perform a hot-swap.
As I see it a dead HDD leaves me with only one option. A Modchip
I was thinkng of picking up a DUO-X2 chip (www.duomodchip.com) at a local retailer. They go for about $21.00 US.(cost is an issue. ) I also have a spare 30GB hard drive that I could use, I'm just not sure if I will be able to format it using the DUO-X2 chip.
I've done some research, but I'm still not clear as to whether the default Bios will allow me to run a program from the DVD to be able to Format the HDD. I've read a couple of posts about error 16 where the XBOX wouldn't boot because the clock had been erased from memory. I don't know if that would apply here.
Also, the prospect of having to solder the chip is somewhat unnerving. I have had limited practice at soldering, I guess I will just have to upgrade my tools.
After all, isn't this all about learning and experimenting.
Basically all this is to say: If I buy the DUO-X2 chip will I be able to just pop in a virgin HDD, and install everything I need using DJB's famous AID?
Jon
nknave Xbox-HQ Freak
Joined: Jul 13, 2005 Posts: 866 Location: Kansas City MO
Posted: Thu Dec 29, 2005 6:07 am Post subject:
Indeed, this is bad hdd, but on your theory on the modchip and virgin hdd, yes, it's 100% good, buy the modchip, install and put any hdd, it doesn't need to be lockable since hacked bios like EvoxM8+ and X2 don't require you to have your hdd locked for it to work. _________________ Xbox v1.1
TSOP EvoxM8+ 1mb
Avalunch SAC skin
Hitachi LG DVD-ROM
300 GiG Maxtor HDD
The "click clank, click clank" is exactly what my XBOX HDD is doing.
It's a LONG-SHOT, but you may be able to refridgerate or freeze the hdd and get to to work for a little bit.
If you made an EEPROM backup up ypu can try a hot-swap to make a hdd key and un/lock disk! BUT...Be careful not to have any condensation on the drive. (water+electronics+power=A VERY BAD THING!!!)
Wrap the hdd in a cloth(t-shirt material, etc.), put it in an anti-static bag, then put that in a zip-lock bag and place in a freezer for an hour or so. you may want to try the fridge first(less condensation, but also less cold). MAKE sure that the air doesn't feel moist(you dont want condensation).
Now try the hotswap as fast as possible. Make the password and un/lock disk and use your spare drive. (done with HDM 1.9 and MSDASH)
It may work, it may not. I have not tried this technique with that type of problem. _________________ I think I like fixing Boxes more than using them!
Naaaah!
-Lee
jonadagi2 Xbox-HQ Enthusiast
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 12, 2005 Posts: 25 Location: Canada
Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2005 3:23 pm Post subject:
Lee,
That is an interesting suggestion.
I did a quick google and came up with this post explaining the "magic" of a frozen drive:
"Actually, there is a good reason why freezing you hard drive works. A lot of times why an old hard drive will fail is the internal parts becoming worn and the heads starting to make actual contact with the platters. Freezing the hard drive for an hour or so will make the metal contract enough so that the heads are lifted back off the platters and your data can be read from it. Of course, once it thaws back out, the heads will crash back on to the platters and kill it some more, so this is only a last chance soution to get important data off the drive."
I just hope that I didn't damage anything when I opened up the drive. In my tinkering I moved the head back and forth and felt it contacting the platters.
What the heck, I'll give it a shot when I get home tonight. What do I have to lose?
As far as condensation is concerned I have a vacuum sealer that I’ll use to remove the air from the bag before placing it in the freezer.
Since I would have limited time once the drive starts up I have to outline all the steps I will need to perform the hot swap. Unfortunately all I backed up was the MSDASH.
Time for a little research.
Thanks again Lee, you may have saved me from performing a little unnecessary soldering.
Jon
jonadagi2 Xbox-HQ Enthusiast
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 12, 2005 Posts: 25 Location: Canada
Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2005 1:06 pm Post subject:
Well...I tried.
I still get the same old "Click-Clank, Click Clank" Anyone want a Hard Drive Popscicle?
Looks like I'm off to buy myself a modchip and maybe a few new soldering tools.
Hopefully I'll be posting my success with the new chip later on today.
TTFN,
Jon
LEE337 Xbox-HQ Freak
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 01, 2005 Posts: 540 Location: Somewhere south of Seattle
Posted: Mon Jan 02, 2006 3:38 pm Post subject:
Sorry, I thought that there was a chance. At least you learned something! _________________ I think I like fixing Boxes more than using them!
Naaaah!
-Lee
jonadagi2 Xbox-HQ Enthusiast
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Dec 12, 2005 Posts: 25 Location: Canada
Posted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 4:53 pm Post subject:
Alright, time for an update and a little closure to this post...
I just got my xbox back this weekend and after a few days of tinkering everything works great!
I picked up the DUO-X2 chip a couple of weeks ago, but after I took a look at the soldering points(especially the d0 point) I realized that I was way out of my league .
There was no way I was going to be able to solder that tiny little point without burning a hole through the board!
Luckily, my brother-in-law's cousin is experienced with this kind of stuff. He has the knowledge and all the fancy tools needed to make the job easier.
It took a week to get it back, but It was definitely worth it.
I can now boot the eXecuter 2 bios using the power button or I can boot the original MS Bios if I use the Eject button(chip disabled). Not bad for a "cheapmod" based chip. Oh and by the way a Maxtor 6E030L0 HDD works great and is lockable.
All in all I'm quite happy with the Duo-X2 chip. It works great I can still use XBOX Live if I want and it only cost me $20.00 plus a case of beer to have it installed.
Don't you just love people that will work for beer! (Don't worry I gave him the beer only after the soldering was finished
Finally, thanks to everyone who helped, it's truly appreciated, keep up the good work! This is definitely my favorite site!
Jon _________________ Xbox v1.0a
Chip: Duo-X2
HDD: 30GB Maxtor
Dash: XBMC
Symbol Xbox-HQ Newbie
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Jan 17, 2006 Posts: 8
Posted: Wed Jan 18, 2006 8:19 pm Post subject:
Glad things finally worked out for you Jon.
I just saw this thread and was about to mention that I had also opened up my xbox (Some time back)and tried to fart around inside but to no avail. putting it back together and thinking I would of needed to buy a new one since all seals were now borken...
Out to go look for one at a local video gaming store.
The clerk informed me that she would take it if I "traded it" in . I warned her I had opened it and the seals were broken but it didn't seem to bother them.
Looking around I saw at the time the "limited" edition green xbox that came with 2 games.
So the clerk bought back my Xbox, I sold her the 2 games that came with the new xbox i was purchasing and for 75$ I now had a new limited edition xbox.
Unfortunatly You posted that all is good. Maybe this can be used for a reference for the next person.
Anyhow...
Though right now for personal reasons I won't mention the Store Unless I'm PM'd.
Let's just avoid trouble
monkeychild Xbox-HQ User
Xbox Version: XBox V1.6 Modded: Soft EvOx UnleashedX
Joined: Jan 11, 2006 Posts: 14
Posted: Thu Jan 19, 2006 11:09 pm Post subject:
I got the error code 7 and clunky noise but it dissapeared after re-installing XBMC
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