RSS Feed (xml)On November 22, 2005, Microsoft released the long awaited XBox360, the next generation of its popular XBox gaming console. TheXBox 360, however, goes farther than any game system that usersare currently accustomed to. The XBox 360 is more like a fullyfunctional, broadband connected entertainment gadget thatappeals to gamers but is equipped to entertain the whole family. Although smaller than the original XBox (The 360 weighs in at amere 7.7 lbs), this version packs so many nifty features in asmall package. If you also happen to own a HDTV, you will trulybe able to appreciate the advanced graphics features and supportfor windscreen (16:9) format. Of course, the console will workon regular television as well, but the depth of the graphicswill be particularly stunning on more advanced televisions. TheXBOx 360 carries a ATI graphics processor and 10MB of embeddedDRAM. This setup allows the XBox 360 to draw up to 500 milliontriangles per second for the ultimate in realistic graphics. The XBox 360 unit also has a 12x dual layer DVD Rom drive thatserves the dual purpose of playing XBox games as well asordinary DVDs. There is also additional support for surroundsound audio for the ultimate home theater experience andrealistic gaming. For game save and other media storage, you can optionallypurchase a 20GB external harddrive which also serves to make theXBox 360 backwards compatible with original XBox games. The XBox 360 goes well beyond the range of gaming and video withits built-in Ethernet port that allows users to connect viatheir broadband connection to XBox live (available in variousflavors). XBox live will allow you to play live over theInternet, use voice and even video chat and, of course, purchaseadditional goodies for your XBOx. In addition to ethernetconnectivity, you can optionally purchase wireless adapters thatcomply with the standard wireless 802.11 protocol forintegration into your existing wireless network. For other datatransfer tasks, such as uploading of your digital photos,digital home movies, and music, you can use the integrated USB2.0 port. With all of these features, it is a piece of cake tostream all of your digital files. As you can see, the XBox 360 offers a little something foreveryone. Kids can enjoy the futuristic gaming capabilities(check game ratings for age appropriateness), and Mom and Dadcan enjoy the file sharing, music and video streaming, and hometheater features. To find the best deals on the Xbox360, check out the XBox page at http://www.iWebshopping.org