A TechLore "Ask the Experts" Question...
Question:
When I turn on my XBOX, it flashes red around the power button, and I don't get any picture on my TV. I am not sure what the problem is, or how to fix this?
-submitted by lost bob
Answer:
Like many other kinds of electronic devices, the flashing is an indicator that something is wrong with the unit, and is prohibiting it from booting. Microsoft does have simple explanations for all combinations, but they have supplied some information about the most common.
According to Microsoft:
Flashing Green - Occurs when the disc tray is opening or closing, or when there is ordinary DVD drive activity.
Flashing Orange - Occurs when internal components of the XBOX have overheated. The XBOX will automatically shut down to prevent damage in this case. Let the unit cool before resuming gameplay. If problem persists, you may need to move the XBOX where it can get better airflow.
Flashing Orange/Green - Occurs when the AV pack is not detected by the XBOX console. Reseat the AV Pack connector, or replace.
Flashing any other combination or color indicates that there is an internal problem with the XBOX, and will require service. Such possibilities include a bad or corrupted EEPROM, locked hard disk, fried chip, corrupted or missing BIOS, etc. If your XBOX is flashing red, you should contact the Microsoft Technical Support Center (1-800-4MY-XBOX) and arrange to have your XBOX repaired or replaced.
Matt Whitlock - Editor, TechLore.com
Did You Know...
Is your TV image reddish/bluish when viewing component video sources like DVD or HDTV? If so, you'll want to read "What To Do When Your DVD/HDTV Image is Reddish/Bluish" to solve it for good.
Ever wondered what the differences are between the different game consoles on the market today. Read "The Playstation 2, XBOX, & GameCube" to learn more about them.
While You're At It...
Nothing is more fun than playing your friends on multiple TVs in your own home, and all you need to do is setup an XBOX LAN. Read "Setting up an XBOX LAN" to find out how.
Playing games on conventional CRT TVs and Plasmas can eventually wear static images into the screen. However, with a few precautions up front, you can mimimze your risk. Read "Does playing video games cause permanent damage to your TV?" to find out more.
