Before you begin

Before You Begin

Modifying an Xbox 360 is rewarding but unforgiving of guesswork. Spend your first effort on identification and preparation, not installation.

1. Identify your motherboard
   Determine whether you have a phat board (Xenon, Zephyr, Falcon, Opus, Jasper) or a slim board (Trinity, Corona). This is the first gate for every decision.
2. Check your dashboard and CB
   Record your dashboard version. A console on dashboard 7371 or lower with an unpatched CB may qualify for JTAG; otherwise plan for an RGH method.
3. Choose a method
   Match your hardware to JTAG, an RGH variant, or R-JTAG. Do not pick a method before you know your board and dashboard.
4. Gather tools and read fully
   Collect the right equipment and read the whole procedure once before touching anything.

Understand that some methods involve soldering and hardware work, while others are largely software. Be honest about your skill level before committing. If you are uncomfortable with fine soldering, prefer a board and method that minimizes it.