Xeno GC Modchip Review

Written by XboxModder999
January 2006

Make sure to check out Brakken's Review of the XenoGC!

Introduction

This Review is for the Xeno GC. The Xeno GC is a new no-frills chip which allows you to boot unsigned code such as backups as well as bootable homebrew discs.
Features

Direct boot of DVD+-RW media
Compatible with all Regions & all Versions
Region Free Loading - Super Easy Wireless Install
No Need to Remove Mainboard
PAL/NTSC region force - installation control Led’s
Switchable read setting adjustment / error retry
Switchable Audio Fix
Anti-static packaging
Extremely low cost

   
Package Contents

The Xeno GC came in an Anti-static bag. The chip was the only thing inside.

Installation

I started by taking apart the GameCube, as well as taking the shielding plate off of the GameCube. I will not tell you how to do this, as there are plenty of guides elsewhere that tell you how to.

I then put the chip in place (using the diagram from the Xeno GC site) and secured it with some tape. The soldering was relatively simple and took me about 5 minutes. The points are pretty small, but if you take your time almost anyone should be able to do it.

Usage

After the soldering was done I placed the DVD drive back in place, set the GameCube cover back on and inserted a game. Upon turning on the GameCube the original IPL loads and you see the GameCubes logo. During this time the Xeno GC’s red LED was flashing which I am certain means that it is putting in the DVD reset code (which allows it to boot the disc). After that is done the game boots and you are good to go. The Xeno GC’s green LED lights up as you are playing the image which means that the disc is being read.

Every game I tried booted without problems. I tried mini DVD-Rs, full-size DVD-Rs, and full-size DVD+Rs. On the website it claims that it boots DVD+/-RWs, but I tried multiple brands and none of them booted - which I expected.

Using the GC-Linux guide I made a few bootable homebrew discs and the ones that did not have DVD reset worked perfectly. For homebrew with DVD reset it just freezes.

Conclusion

The chip does exactly what the manufactures claim and does it well. It doesn’t have a lot of the features that the more expensive chips have, but if you are just interested in playing your backups you can’t beat it. I purchased mine from Eurasia for $22.50 shipped and I am very happy with it.

Good Points

Cheap
Relatively easy install
Works well
Has all features mentioned on site

Bad Points

Missing features of other more expensive chips
Official website is missing information. According to the features, it has Switchable DRE retry and audio fix, but I was not able to figure out how to switch them.

Links

XenoGC's Homepage
The Mod That Cube Online FAQ
Eurasia Online Store



-=[ Xeno GC Review Discussion Thread ]=-

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