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How to Fix Two Rings of Light on an Xbox 360

Fans of Microsoft's Xbox 360 sometimes have a love-hate relationship with the console. While many love the 360's cutting-edge graphics, extensive game selection and downloadable content (DLC) via the Xbox Live online marketplace, many hate the inherent maladies common with the system. The dreaded Red Rings of Death, so named when the green lights on the faceplate flash red, mean something's gone wrong with the internal components. When two of the four lights that make up the green light circle flash red, the 360 isn't cooling off as it should.

Instructions

- 1
  Check the immediate environment surrounding the Xbox 360. If there's clutter, such as books, clothing, game boxes or other obstructions, the console isn't ventilating properly. Remove any or all of these items and allow the Xbox to cool. Place the console in a well-ventilated area free from any walls, away from other obstructions, and power up the system to determine if this method corrected the red rings.
- 2
  Play a game for about an hour or so, letting the Xbox heat up considerably. If the dual red rings appear, damage from overheating has occurred, resulting in a hardware failure. Unplug all cords and attachments from the console and log on to support.xbox.com to register to have your console repaired.
- 3
  Follow the prompts to schedule your Xbox 360 for the repair process. Registration will require you to have the Xbox's serial number, your mailing address and your Live ID handy. Consult your paperwork included with the Xbox to determine if your console is still in warranty. If so, follow the directions on the site. If not, continue registering and ship the unit to the address given. Ship only the console (don't include controllers, games or cables, as they may not be returned). Most repairs take two to four weeks. If not under warranty, the repair may result in an out-of-pocket expense (usually about $90).

Xbox 360