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How to Troubleshoot Four Red Lights Flashing on a Microsoft Xbox 360

The Xbox 360 game console flashes different light patterns near the power button to indicate to the user potential problems with the system. Four flashing red lights is an indication that there is a potential problem with the A/V cable used to connect the Xbox 360 to the television. This problem can be troubleshooted easily by ensuring that the A/V cable is connected properly.

Instructions

- 1
  Disconnect the A/V cable from the Xbox 360 and the television. Visually inspect the A/V cable to ensure its rubber casing is not damaged and that the internal wires are not exposed; if the cable's internal wiring has been damaged, it likely will need to be replaced.
- 2
  Reconnect the A/V cable to the Xbox 360 and the television, ensuring that each connection is plugged in the appropriate place (and corresponds to the appropriate colors).
- 3
  Ensure that the TV switch on the A/V cable is set to the right position. If you are using a non-HD television, make sure the switch is set to "standard definition"; if you are using an HD television, make sure the switch is set to "high definition."
- 4
  Use another Xbox 360 A/V cable to test your current system. If your Xbox 360 does not display the four flashing red lights with this second Xbox 360 A/V cable, then your original A/V cable likely is defective. If your Xbox 360 still displays the four flashing red lights, then you may have to send in your Xbox 360 for repairs.

Xbox 360