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How to Use a Regular CD-ROM Drive for Xbox

Xbox consoles utilize internal disc drives for playing music, games and movies. Normally, these drives are DVD drives, which can read both CD and DVD discs. However, if your Xbox DVD drive fails or becomes defective, you can replace it with a CD-ROM drive. Replacing the DVD drive with a CD drive requires the use of an Xbox modification program, which can be downloaded free of charge from the Internet.

Things You'll Need

CD-ROM drive
Torx screwdriver (size 7)
SATA cable
Computer
Xbox modification program

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug any power cables and accessories from the Xbox console. Remove the front faceplate and unclasp the plastic tabs on the outer case. Remove the outer case and unscrew the Torx screws on the metal interior case. Slide open the metal case and unplug the DVD drive from the Xbox motherboard. Connect your SATA cable from your computer to the Xbox motherboard. Turn on your computer
- 2
  Open a Web browser and download an Xbox modification program from the list in the References section. Run the program and select your Xbox console from its main menu. Click "Modify Disc Drive Data" and select the "Swap DVD for CD" option. Click "OK" to confirm your selection and the program will save the data to the Xbox's motherboard. Close the program once the data save finishes, then shut down your computer. Unplug your SATA cable from the computer to the Xbox motherboard, then connect the SATA cable from the Xbox to the CD drive. Lower the CD drive into place.
- 3
  Close the metal cover and rescrew the Torx screws. Return the outer case to its original position, then replace the front faceplate. Reconnect any power cables and accessories before turning on the console again. Your Xbox will now use a CD drive to read discs.

Xbox 360