Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 10, 2006, 02:10:00 PM
Yes, you heard right. Due to the fact that our dear friend DVADER has abandoned us, I took it upon myself to fix the 720p/1080i sync problems for Modchip/VGA users.
This fix should have full support for Conexant AND Focus encoders, and both should run PERFECTLY at 480p, 720p, and 1080i. I have not yet personally tested this, as I have no modchip myself, but I am 99.9% POSITIVE it will work perfectly, as I have FULL faith in my hex editting skills.
What I have done is used the code for the on-the-fly hex edits done by the newest version of NKPatcher v10-vga10 and compared it against the code in an actual BIOS, and was able to figure out what registers did what in the actual BIOS. All current BIOSes should be fully supported too.
All you have to do is extract your BIOS files using xbtool, and then replace the following strings in xboxkrnl.img with a hex editor. (I personally recommend using the 'replace' option in XVI32 - A free hex editor.) Then repack the BIOS, and flash onto your Modchip.
NOTE: BE SURE TO APPLY BOTH PATCHES SO YOUR BIOS SUPPORTS BOTH ENCODERS! If you really want to, you can just do one of them, but why not have support for both? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)
NOTE: AS SAID BEFORE, I HAVE NOT TESTED THIS. USE THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK! BE SURE YOU CAN RECOVER IF THIS DOES NOT WORK! Although i'm sure it will work perfectly fine.
If someone with a modchip and a VGA cable could test this out and post your results, I would appreciate it.
_______________________________________________________________________________
--BEGIN CODE FOR CONEXANT ENCODERS--
Replace this code:
CODE
0C AD 48 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 8C 00 00 46 0C AA 49 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 21 00 00 46 0C AB 49 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 21 00 00 46
With this code:
CODE
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 8C 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46
--END CODE FOR CONEXANT ENCODERS--
_______________________________________________________________________________
--BEGIN CODE FOR FOCUS ENCODERS--
Replace this code:
CODE
01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 0A 0A 3E 48 3F 3F 3B 00 1B 03 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 9D 00 A5 00 9D 00 00 00 F0 00 B7 00 D0 02 23 00 E0 01 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 2E 58 28 46 DC 00 2C 06 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 9D 00 A5 00 9D 00 00 00 F0 00 72 01 00 05 18 00 D0 02 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 AE 58 2C 2C 58 00 6C 08 01 00 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 9D 00 A5 00 9D 00 00 00 F0 00 E5 00 80 07 14 00 1C 02 03 20 15 04 00 20
With this code:
CODE
01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 0A 0A 3E 08 3F 3F 3B 00 1B 03 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 8A 00 8A 00 8A 00 00 00 F0 00 B7 00 D0 02 23 00 E0 01 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 3E 18 28 46 DC 00 2C 06 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 8A 00 8A 00 8A 00 00 00 F0 00 72 01 00 05 18 00 D0 02 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 BE 18 2C 2C 58 00 6C 08 01 00 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 8A 00 8A 00 8A 00 00 00 F0 00 E5 00 80 07 14 00 1C 02 03 20 15 04 00 20
--END CODE FOR FOCUS ENCODERS--
_______________________________________________________________________________
Thanks/Respect/Credit:
Dr. Oldschool - For creating NKPatcher and the first VGA Softmod
masticism - For initially fixing the purple tint on 720p/1080i
DVADER - For showing up, and then leaving us high and dry, thereby motivating me to do this.
Textbook & leeloo - For tutorials on building VGA cables
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 10 2006, 09:15 PM
Post by: TheIrishLad on October 10, 2006, 02:41:00 PM
If I was one of those people who quoted people and put it in my sig, this would be in there
:QUOTE
NOTE: AS SAID BEFORE, I HAVE NOT TESTED THIS. USE THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK! BE SURE YOU CAN RECOVER IF THIS DOES NOT WORK! Although i'm sure it will work perfectly fine.
Post by: The Zep Man on October 10, 2006, 03:44:00 PM
Might be interesting to see what happens with a BFM BIOS which is correctly patched...
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 10, 2006, 03:53:00 PM
I have now created an automatic patcher for my fix. It functions exactly the same way that DVADER's patch worked. Simply drop this in the directory with the xboxkrnl.img file, execute, and click Patch. Once patched, simply delete both the xboxkrnl.img.bak (backup file) and vgapatcher.exe, and then repack the BIOS with xbtool and flash.
NOTE: The automatic patcher AND the VGA fix are both still considered experimental until someone can confirm it works properly.
You can find it here:
http://forums.ngemu.com/attachments/misc-p...-vgapatcher.rar
NOTE: I did not hack DVADER's patcher. I simply used the same patch creating program that he also used, known as dUP2.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 10 2006, 11:01 PM
Post by: ChickenBOX180 on October 10, 2006, 06:45:00 PM
xbox 1.0
bios x2 5035
dou x2 modchip
sony g520 monitor with SOG support
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 10, 2006, 06:47:00 PM
EDIT: v1.0 XBOX, that would be Conexant. I'll have an update in a minute. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
EDIT: EDIT: Any news from anyone on the Focus encoder?
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 11 2006, 02:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 10, 2006, 07:28:00 PM
New version of the autopatcher, hopefully fixes the Conexant green tint issue. Be sure to apply this to a 'clean' BIOS. Meaning, don't attempt to repair a BIOS file patched with the old patcher.
http://forums.ngemu.com/attachments/misc-p...-vgapatcher.rar
NOTE: The code for Conexant in the main post of the thread is incorrect now.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 11 2006, 02:31 AM
Post by: ClintiePoo on October 10, 2006, 07:59:00 PM
Post by: Heet on October 10, 2006, 08:03:00 PM
Hope it gets worked out!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 10, 2006, 07:28:00 PM
Sorry, another update concerning Conexant. This follows Dr. Oldschool's method exactly, so it should be correct now.
http://forums.ngemu....-vgapatcher.rar
Once again, all feedback is helpful.
NOTE: I wish there was an easier way to post/edit.
Post by: TheIrishLad on October 10, 2006, 08:05:00 PM
Post by: ChickenBOX180 on October 10, 2006, 08:35:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 10, 2006, 08:52:00 PM
NOTE: Any Focus encoder results is still helpful.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 10, 2006, 09:14:00 PM
Okay, this SHOULD fix the green tint issue. Hopefully. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)
Version 4 of the Autopatcher, once again, run this against a 'clean' BIOS image.
http://forums.ngemu.com/attachments/misc-p...-vgapatcher.rar
NOTE: Still untested, as I am not in a position to flash my TSOP at the moment.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 11 2006, 04:18 AM
Post by: dav-coms on October 11, 2006, 12:58:00 AM
Post by: Foe-hammer on October 11, 2006, 03:25:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Oct 10 2006, 08:45 PM) 
*DOUBLE POST*
Okay, this SHOULD fix the green tint issue. Hopefully.
Version 4 of the Autopatcher, once again, run this against a 'clean' BIOS image.
http://forums.ngemu....-vgapatcher.rar
NOTE: Still untested, as I am not in a position to flash my TSOP at the moment.
Tried it on my conexant chip and no go, sorry.
480p = Green
720p = Purple, green, and very dark.
Keep up the good work....i can almost taste what i've been waiting for for over 3yrs.
Post by: ChickenBOX180 on October 11, 2006, 04:16:00 AM
My test result:
470p= green tint
720p= very dark pink tint (barely see the screen)
1080i=very dark pink tint (barely see the screen)
Tested on
xbox v1.0
modchip dou x2
bios x2 5035
Post by: Foe-hammer on October 11, 2006, 04:32:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 11, 2006, 06:07:00 AM
EDIT: I'm guessing that there is some kind of 'enabler' code that needs to be implemented.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 11 2006, 01:08 PM
Post by: veeper on October 11, 2006, 07:11:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 11, 2006, 07:26:00 AM
I have found the 'Enabler Code' that is present in DVADER's patch, and I have included it in my own. This is a 'back to the drawing board' release, meaning that I went back and double checked all my logic/work and made sure this would be the correct way to do it. Still no guarantees, but as long as people are willing to test, I will be willing to keep working on this fix.
But I think this should be the correct patch. (/me crosses fingers)
Version 0.5 of the Autopatcher. Please report your results.
http://forums.ngemu....-vgapatcher.rar
Post by: Zebes on October 11, 2006, 10:20:00 AM
QUOTE(Foe-hammer @ Oct 11 2006, 03:32 AM)
I wanted to add that i tried it on an x3 chip, with the x3 bios.
how did you get xbtool to extract/pack the bios?
i can't seem to get it to work
Post by: ChickenBOX180 on October 11, 2006, 01:34:00 PM
My Test Result:
480p= 100% working
720p= 100% working
1080i= 100% working
Thank you very much for working on this patch. All the modchip people should be happy now.
Right now I am playing soul calibur 2 @ 720p without purple tint problem. The graphic is very sharp.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 11, 2006, 01:40:00 PM
ChickenBOX180, thank you for your help with beta testing. Your name will be added into my credits list as a beta tester.
Seriously, I really appreciate your help.
Version 0.6 - Only a cosmetic release to include ChickenBOX180's name in the credits.
http://forums.ngemu.com/attachments/misc-p...-vgapatcher.rar
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 11 2006, 08:41 PM
Post by: ChickenBOX180 on October 11, 2006, 01:43:00 PM
Post by: veeper on October 11, 2006, 01:58:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Oct 11 2006, 09:40 PM)
Nice!!! So glad to hear it's working properly!!!
ChickenBOX180, thank you for your help with beta testing. Your name will be added into my credits list as a beta tester.
So Connexant is working since ChickenBOX180 has a v1.0 box, that sounds wondeful.
May I add a question: is "force progressive" possible as well if that is not too perky to ask?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 11, 2006, 02:05:00 PM
QUOTE(veeper @ Oct 11 2006, 02:05 PM)
So Connexant is working since ChickenBOX180 has a v1.0 box, that sounds wondeful.
May I add a question: is "force progressive" possible as well if that is not too perky to ask?
LOL, it's not too perky to ask.
I am looking into this possibility at the moment, and I will see what I can do. Although, i'm not sure if it can be done. I will do some research into the NKPatcher v10-vga10 source code and see how it modifies the kernel, and see if Force480p can be applied to my patch.
Until then, everyone enjoy the patch!
NOTE: I'm still waiting for confirmation on whether or not the Focus encoder works, but i'm sure it will work fine.
Post by: ChickenBOX180 on October 11, 2006, 02:24:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 11, 2006, 02:36:00 PM
Or is XBMC itself green after you reset?
Post by: ChickenBOX180 on October 11, 2006, 02:47:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Oct 11 2006, 01:36 PM)
So, is it a quick green screen, and then the XBMC screen itself is normal?
Or is XBMC itself green after you reset?
xbmc dashboard stay green until I reboot the xbox or select a diferent game to play then it's back to normal.
The green tint doesn't happen when I play game that support 480p only.
Post by: Foe-hammer on October 11, 2006, 04:39:00 PM
All resolutions work 100%!
The only problem i see is that when you exit out of a 720p game or app (emulator) the dash returns to green, and i have to reboot to get colors back.
Also, those games that revert back to green (UBI soft games, morrowind, etc.) still do it. And the N64 emulator, once a game is booted, turns green. But these have been vga issues from the beginning. If this could ever be fixed (at least the N64 emulator, for me) then the vga bios would be perfect.
Again, kudos and great job.
This post has been edited by Foe-hammer: Oct 11 2006, 11:40 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 11, 2006, 05:19:00 PM
QUOTE(Foe-hammer @ Oct 11 2006, 04:39 PM) 
The only problem i see is that when you exit out of a 720p game or app (emulator) the dash returns to green, and i have to reboot to get colors back.
Yeah, i'm not sure of the cause of this, but I am currently working on a fix. The temporary solution to this problem would be to either enable 720p/1080i in your dash, or use a dash that supports 720p/1080i. (UnleashX)
QUOTE(Foe-hammer @ Oct 11 2006, 04:39 PM)
Also, those games that revert back to green (UBI soft games, morrowind, etc.) still do it. And the N64 emulator, once a game is booted, turns green. But these have been vga issues from the beginning. If this could ever be fixed (at least the N64 emulator, for me) then the vga bios would be perfect.
AFAIK, these problems are caused by the game itself changing the encoder's registers, and the BIOS doesn't automatically correct this. I'm not sure if this is fixable, but I will look into it. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 12 2006, 12:20 AM
Post by: TheIrishLad on October 11, 2006, 08:37:00 PM
For modchip users!Thanks much mate!
Post by: Zebes on October 11, 2006, 09:44:00 PM
QUOTE(Zebes @ Oct 11 2006, 09:27 AM)
how did you get xbtool to extract/pack the bios?
i can't seem to get it to work
bump on my q
on patching the x3 bios
Post by: xboxgamer733 on October 12, 2006, 12:02:00 AM
Also, I tried using your latest patch on the Xecuter 4981 BIOS, and I seem to be encountering the same green screen problems as ChickenBOX180. But for games that only support 480p, your patcher works wonderfully! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
Great work so far!
Post by: captainjon on October 12, 2006, 05:52:00 AM
I can finally use X|BMX in 720p, now I just need to get live tv streaming
from my 9700 aiw! Anyone got this working?
Cheers!
Post by: Zebes on October 12, 2006, 07:33:00 AM
Post by: Heet on October 12, 2006, 09:29:00 AM
Im gonna cry lol. Like Foe said weve been waiting for years for this and you do it in days lol.
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Textbook on October 12, 2006, 01:47:00 PM
So happy, I'll test shortly, maybe tonight.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 12, 2006, 02:19:00 PM
FrostyTheSnowman's VGA Patcher v0.7
Changes:
1. Mimics NKPatcher's VGA Code for Conexant/Focus exactly (Better Compatibility with more VGA Monitors)
2. Updated 'About' Section in Patcher
Known Bugs:
1. When using IGR, the screen will turn green on your dashboard until you select another game, or reset your XBOX. (This is caused by the current IGR methods not resetting the GPU before loading the dashboard.)
2. Games that do not reset the GPU before executing will be green. (Morrowind, Splinter Cell 1 & 3, Jade Empire, etc.)
3. 480i games (interlaced games) are not supported in VGA mode.
Future Plans:
I am currently waiting on a response from Dr. Oldschool to see if he can provide me with any pointers on fixing the above problems. I am not sure if/when there will be another release, but rest assured I will do my best. Until then, anyone else with hex editting experience with the XBOX BIOS is more than welcome to try and fix these problems. I am providing a list of the hex edits performed in my patch at the bottom of this post, so if anyone else wants to try to fix the above problems they are more than welcome to do so. Just be sure to include my name in the credits of your patch.
You can download the newest version here:
FrostyTheSnowman's VGA Patcher v0.7
http://forums.ngemu.com/attachments/misc-p...atcher-v0.7.rar
-------- Detailed Hex Edit Information for VGA Patcher v0.7 --------
All you have to do to create a VGA BIOS is replace some lines of hex code in the xboxkrnl.img file in an unpacked BIOS. Simply use the 'replace' option in many popular hex editors to do this. (I recommend XVI32 - A free hex editor.)
NOTE: There is only one instance of each of these codes in the XBOX BIOS. They should be easy to find and replace.
---BEGIN CONEXANT ENCODER CODE---
Replace this:
CODE
0C AD 48 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 8C 00 00 46 0C AA 49 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 21 00 00 46 0C AB 49 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 21 00 00 46
With this:
CODE
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 8C 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46
---END CONEXANT ENCODER CODE---
---BEGIN FOCUS ENCODER CODE---
Replace this:
CODE
01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 0A 0A 3E 48 3F 3F 3B 00 1B 03 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 9D 00 A5 00 9D 00 00 00 F0 00 B7 00 D0 02 23 00 E0 01 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 2E 58 28 46 DC 00 2C 06 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 9D 00 A5 00 9D 00 00 00 F0 00 72 01 00 05 18 00 D0 02 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 AE 58 2C 2C 58 00 6C 08 01 00 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 9D 00 A5 00 9D 00 00 00 F0 00 E5 00 80 07 14 00 1C 02 03 20 15 04 00 20
With this:
CODE
01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 0A 0A 3E 08 3F 3F 3B 00 1B 03 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 8A 00 8A 00 8A 00 00 00 F0 00 B7 00 D0 02 23 00 E0 01 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 3E 18 28 46 DC 00 2C 06 00 40 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 8A 00 8A 00 8A 00 00 00 F0 00 72 01 00 05 18 00 D0 02 03 20 15 04 00 20 01 20 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 18 41 1A 00 03 03 BE 18 2C 2C 58 00 6C 08 01 00 E4 00 00 04 00 00 00 00 00 00 8A 00 8A 00 8A 00 00 00 F0 00 E5 00 80 07 14 00 1C 02 03 20 15 04 00 20
---END FOCUS ENCODER CODE---
---BEGIN 'VGA Code Enabler' CODE---
Replace this:
CODE
74 12 89
With this:
CODE
90 90 89
---END 'VGA Code Enabler' CODE---
Post by: Foe-hammer on October 12, 2006, 06:06:00 PM
- When exiting out of a 720p game via IGR, or when exiting out of a 720p application (emulator or dashboard) back to a 720p dashboard, the screen will go green. The only thing that will return a 720p application or game back to full color is if you do a complete system reset, boot up a 480p game or application, or change the resolution to 480p in the dashboard, then back to 720p. Thereby reseting the GPU. Then when you exit out of the 480p game, application or resolution the 720p dashboard will be in full color. (Sorry if that was as confusing as hell (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) )
- 480p dashboard, games and other applications do not show this behavior; IGR has no effect on it turning to green.
- Those few (but good) 480p games, and N64 emulator that turn green once the game is loaded are the exception. But if you IGR the dashboard color will return to full color in 720p or 480p.
Again, thanks for all the hard work frosty.
This post has been edited by Foe-hammer: Oct 13 2006, 01:07 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 12, 2006, 09:26:00 PM
Kind of annoying, I know. But hey, at least 720p/1080i has full color now, right? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 13 2006, 04:32 AM
Post by: FUCKMICROSOFT on October 12, 2006, 10:50:00 PM
Post by: Foe-hammer on October 12, 2006, 11:31:00 PM
QUOTE(FUCKMICROSOFT @ Oct 12 2006, 10:50 PM)
this is great news!!! thanks bro. this should be on the front page!!!
No doubt.
This is more 'front page' worthy then a lot that makes it on there.
Post by: Foe-hammer on October 13, 2006, 02:11:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Oct 12 2006, 09:26 PM)
So basically, to sum it up, as long as you are playing 480p games you will be fine, and there won't be any green screens when you use IGR. If you use 720p/1080i games or applications, all you have to do is reset your XBOX after you are done using them and the colors will be back to normal.
Kind of annoying, I know. But hey, at least 720p/1080i has full color now, right? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)
Correct. But if you are running your dashboard in 480p and boot up a 720p/1080i game or application, and exit out to your dashboard, your dashboard will be fine; in full color.
The dashboard going green after playing a 720p/1080i game or application only happens if you are running your dashboard in 720p/1080i.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 13, 2006, 09:12:00 AM
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 13 2006, 04:13 PM
Post by: Zebes on October 13, 2006, 09:17:00 AM
and i need some clearification, once i reflash my chip with the patched bios, could i still use those same bios on a regular t.v. when i don't have a monitor at hand?
This post has been edited by Zebes: Oct 13 2006, 04:29 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 13, 2006, 09:21:00 AM
Post by: TheIrishLad on October 13, 2006, 02:17:00 PM
Post by: dav-coms on October 13, 2006, 09:19:00 PM
Just a couple of thing I knoticed:
With a standerd A/V cable, its all green!
Some blueish colours are green.
Dark blue colours are light purple.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 13, 2006, 09:42:00 PM
QUOTE(dav-coms @ Oct 13 2006, 09:26 PM)
With a standerd A/V cable, its all green!
Interesting. Yeah, Zebes had informed me of the same thing. The answer for now is to use a dual BIOS setup, one with the VGA patch, and one with a regular unpatched BIOS.
QUOTE(dav-coms @ Oct 13 2006, 09:26 PM)
Some blueish colours are green.
Dark blue colours are light purple.
Dark blue colours are light purple.
Really? Your the first to notice this, as far as I know. Is this happening in 480p? Or just in 720p/1080i?
I'll be doing some more testing, and i'll see what I can fix. I've just recently learned how to apply my patches to a BFM BIOS, and this has enabled me to do my own testing.
By the way, are you using a FOCUS encoder, or a Conexant?
Post by: dav-coms on October 14, 2006, 02:32:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Oct 14 2006, 01:49 PM)
Is this happening in 480p? Or just in 720p/1080i?
I'll be doing some more testing, and i'll see what I can fix. I've just recently learned how to apply my patches to a BFM BIOS, and this has enabled me to do my own testing.
By the way, are you using a FOCUS encoder, or a Conexant?
I'll be doing some more testing, and i'll see what I can fix. I've just recently learned how to apply my patches to a BFM BIOS, and this has enabled me to do my own testing.
By the way, are you using a FOCUS encoder, or a Conexant?
At the moment I'm seeing these colours changes in 480p (don't know about 720p or higher) on a Focus chip (Xbox 1.4). It got a bit annoying so I went back to using a old Yoshihiro VGA Focus 512k bios (which has tons of probs but colours are normal).
If you want I can do some testing as well for you using my duox chip!
This post has been edited by dav-coms: Oct 14 2006, 09:33 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 14, 2006, 11:09:00 AM
QUOTE(dav-coms @ Oct 14 2006, 02:32 AM)
At the moment I'm seeing these colours changes in 480p (don't know about 720p or higher) on a Focus chip (Xbox 1.4). It got a bit annoying so I went back to using a old Yoshihiro VGA Focus 512k bios (which has tons of probs but colours are normal).
If you want I can do some testing as well for you using my duox chip!
Yoshihiro has a VGA BIOS? Hmm, I will have to look into his method and see if I can duplicate it. I personally don't have a FOCUS encoder, (I have 2 Conexant XBOXs) so yes, your testing would be very helpful.
Post by: Textbook on October 15, 2006, 03:57:00 PM
Not sure how you pulled that one off. I booted it up and expected to wait for about 15 seconds before seeing XBMC but I saw the flubber and I said "WTF?"
But yeah, flubber is showing up for me with the VGA BIOS for some reason
FrostyTheSnowman had me try DVDX, one of the only 480i apps I know of, but it didn't work. Monitor went out of range. So I'm not sure why the flubber (480i) is showing up but not DVDX.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 15, 2006, 06:39:00 PM
My code is basically a compilation of the best VGA code from a few different BIOSes compiled into one multi-bios patch.
Here's my sources:
Conexant/FOCUS 720p/1080i Support - NKPatcher v10-vga10
VGA 'Enabler Code' - DVADER's Patch & Yoshihiro's VGA BIOS
NOTE: As far as I have been told, the FOCUS encoders don't seem to be getting perfect colors, but I am working on a fix for this. Conexant encoders are getting perfect colors though.
Post by: Heet on October 15, 2006, 09:35:00 PM
Post by: veeper on October 16, 2006, 03:04:00 AM
QUOTE(Textbook @ Oct 16 2006, 12:04 AM)
Working great for me, even the flubber !!
Not sure how you pulled that one off. I booted it up and expected to wait for about 15 seconds before seeing XBMC but I saw the flubber and I said "WTF?"
But yeah, flubber is showing up for me with the VGA BIOS for some reason
FrostyTheSnowman had me try DVDX, one of the only 480i apps I know of, but it didn't work. Monitor went out of range. So I'm not sure why the flubber (480i) is showing up but not DVDX.
Hm... isn't there an option for a 480p flubber in some BIOS's? No idea how that works anyway, but that might be the explanation for it.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 16, 2006, 07:07:00 AM
QUOTE(veeper @ Oct 16 2006, 03:11 AM)
Hm... isn't there an option for a 480p flubber in some BIOS's? No idea how that works anyway, but that might be the explanation for it.
Yeah, that's the only possible explanation I can think of, because my patches don't have the ability to 'Force480p' at the moment.
Post by: mystery.tipster on October 22, 2006, 01:46:00 AM
I have been reading this with great interest. I want to connect my PAL Uk Xbox v1.1 to my new 19" TFT. It has 2 inputs, VGA and DVI-D. The PC is connected to the VGA port so is it possible to connect the Xbox to the DVI-D port using the Bios VGA hack? If not im happy to connect to the VGA port. Also, I understand how to perform the VGA hack on the Bios but what connecting leads/adaptors do I need, Im no good at making my own so I will need to buy them.
Thanks in Advance and keep up the good work Frosty
Adam
Post by: v1p3r on October 22, 2006, 01:59:00 PM
Cheers
Post by: ampedXR on October 22, 2006, 03:02:00 PM
Move over x360!
Does anyone know if there is a list of supported games and their resolutions somewhere?
Post by: wolrahnaes on October 22, 2006, 03:14:00 PM
QUOTE(veeper @ Oct 16 2006, 05:11 AM)
Hm... isn't there an option for a 480p flubber in some BIOS's? No idea how that works anyway, but that might be the explanation for it. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif)
Yes.
I can verify that the X3 BIOS has supported 480p flubber for many versions.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 22, 2006, 04:12:00 PM
QUOTE(v1p3r @ Oct 22 2006, 01:59 PM)
My 24" widescreen monitor has both component inputs (with 1080i support) and VGA, is there any compelling reason to swich from component to VGA?
Cheers (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
Well, it would depend on the quality of your monitor.
But, you probably wouldn't notice a huge difference if your monitor already has good support for Component input.
Post by: Demi on October 22, 2006, 04:15:00 PM
Post by: veeper on October 22, 2006, 05:24:00 PM
QUOTE(Demi @ Oct 23 2006, 12:22 AM)
I am having a problem with the autopatcher on my v1.0 qith a vga cable. I patched my x2 5035 bios as the instructions say. And when I turn on the xbox I can see the "loading x2 config" correctly its white so the patch seems to be ok at this point. But after that my monitor just goes to sleep. I don't get the flubber not suprising but my dashboard nevers come up either. I have enabled the hdtv setting in the MS dash. Tried it with 720p and 480p enable and with just 480p. This monitor and cable does work with the old debug vga bios from way back so i have to be doing something wrong. Any one have an idea?
This is now just a guess, but do you use a cable with VGA mode instead of HDTV? That would be an explanation in case you were using one of the 'classic' VGA BIOS's which had the unofficial 640x480 mode support.
A second idea: did you just try the standard Microsoft dashboard and thus not see anything because it is displaying interlaced? This one would magically match a Yes to the first idea.
Post by: Demi on October 22, 2006, 05:27:00 PM
Post by: veeper on October 22, 2006, 05:45:00 PM
QUOTE(Demi @ Oct 23 2006, 01:34 AM)
yeah this is a cable that was made for vga mode. I haven't kept up with the vga stuff in a long time so i didn't realize that there was a different way to make the cable. i assume i just need to change the jumper wires in the plug to change from vga mode to hdtv mode?
Wow, I'm glad to see that I was actually right. Yes, changing to HDTV mode will do the trick.
*still longing for time to fix his own box to try the new BIOS*
This post has been edited by veeper: Oct 23 2006, 12:46 AM
Post by: Demi on October 22, 2006, 06:19:00 PM
Post by: inni on October 23, 2006, 11:03:00 AM
Or is this based on a special brand cable..?
Wonderful work btw!
A great honour salute,
^Angel.
Post by: T-1200 on October 23, 2006, 01:10:00 PM
Post by: Foe-hammer on October 23, 2006, 02:43:00 PM
QUOTE(T-1200 @ Oct 23 2006, 01:17 PM)
I would like to try this myself on my X3 modchip, but I dont have a switch attached to it, so I cannot select a different bank to install the patched bios.
The x3 doesn't need a physical switch to change the bios banks. All you need to do is go into the x3 config file (hold down the white button when booting), flash one of your 1mb banks, and then load them up. Very simple.
Post by: Demi on October 23, 2006, 04:27:00 PM
Post by: m3tro on October 23, 2006, 06:37:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Oct 13 2006, 05:19 PM)
NOTE: The v1.6 XBOX is still unsupported. My patch will not work for v1.6 XBOXs because they use the 'Xcalibur' video encoder. This encoder was internally developed by Microsoft, and there isn't any data sheets or documentation available for anyone to be able to get VGA working on this encoder.
I patched M8plus_16.bin and Metoo-M8plus_16-06-EF.bin, and flashed my chip, just to see what happened!
Don't have a vga cable, so can't test that, but just wanted to tell you I still get a picture on my TV with Composite cables and HDTV cables.
Nearly everything is green, but there is a picture....
(Metoo-M8plus_16-06-EF.bin is BFM)
This post has been edited by m3tro: Oct 24 2006, 01:39 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 23, 2006, 09:45:00 PM
Hopefully some documentation on the Xcalibur encoder will emerge, and if that happens I can easily apply the appropriate code to my patcher to support v1.6 XBOXs. (Hey, Microsoft, how about that datasheet?
)NOTE: The green tint is a direct result of the GPU being patched for RGB, and the encoder not being patched to recieve an RGB signal. This also happens with standard A/V cables too, because the standard cables are not enabling HDTV output (Because they are not HDTV cables...
), and the HDTV code for the encoder is what is actually being patched in my patcher. And also note, that the reason why the colors are incorrect when using an actual HDTV cable and a real HDTV is because the encoder is trying to output VGA colors and signals to an HDTV, and most HDTVs cannot accept a VGA signal on their Component Inputs.So basically...
Composite (Yellow, White, Red) = Green
S-Video = Green
SCART = Green
Component = Green
Homemade VGA Cable = Beautiful VGA Colors
This is why it is recommended that anyone using my patcher should also have a 'clean' BIOS on the second bank of their modchip for usage on TVs.
Post by: DVADER on October 25, 2006, 02:31:00 PM
I'm glad to see someone working on this. I'm happy to assist where I can, but it looks like frosty has a better grasp on this than I ever did.
I don't really read these forums any more, but I sent frosty my email via PM.
Post by: -Zou- on October 27, 2006, 08:40:00 AM
Great job FrostyTheSnowman (IMG:style_emoticons/default/pop.gif)
Here is I've noticed :
- Recently I moded the VGA cable in HDTV mode to test the patched VGA bioses and I noticed that if I connected a VGA cable with HDTV mode the iND-Bios work in 720p and 1080i. I used the iND-5001 VGA bios since 2 years without knowing that (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif). The iND-VGA work great on one of my two monitors. The one who don't work have a purple tint but on both monitor I can see the boot blob and logo with the good colors.
- With X2 4981 VGA patched : In VGA mode (with VGA cable) there is the boot blob/logo on the monitor with corect color but when it load the dashboard the signal is out of range.
In HDTV mode the boot blob/logo is out of range but when the dashboard is loaded the screen is ok (480p, 720p and 1080i).
QUOTE(Frosty)
1. When using IGR, the screen will turn green on your dashboard until you select another game, or reset your XBOX. (This is caused by the current IGR methods not resetting the GPU before loading the dashboard.)
Since the iND-VGA is out I use XBMC as dashboard because when using IGR the screen don't turn green. Now it's the same with the frosty patched bioses. Except when XBMC is in 720p(1080i) and we do a IGR in a 720p(1080i) game/app. I tested :
With XBMC as 480p dashboard:
- 480p Game/App -> IGR -> 480p XBMC without green tint
- 720p Game/App -> IGR -> 480p XBMC without green tint
- 1080i Game/App -> IGR -> 480p XBMC without green tint
With XBMC as 720p dashboard:
- 480p Game/App -> IGR -> 720p XBMC without green tint
- 720p Game/App -> IGR -> 720p XBMC WITH green tint
- 1080i Game/App -> IGR -> 720p XBMC without green tint
With XBMC as 1080i dashboard (XBMC is lagging in this resolution >.<)
- 480p Game/App -> IGR -> 1080i XBMC without green tint
- 720p Game/App -> IGR -> 1080i XBMC without green tint
- 1080i Game/App -> IGR -> 1080i XBMC WITH green tint
NB: I use Soulcalibur II as 720p game and Avalaunch in 1080i as 1080i App.
When you have the green tint it's possible to disable it. You have to change the rƩsolution in XBMC. Switch for exemple to 480p then go back in 720p.
QUOTE
3. 480i games (interlaced games) are not supported in VGA mode.
And if we patch the game to support 480p?
http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=210156
QUOTE
4. When using a video cable OTHER than a VGA cable, the colors will be incorrect. It is advised that you use a Dual BIOS setup, consisting of a VGA patched BIOS, and a standard BIOS so that you can still use your XBOX on a regular TV.
If you use a "true" RGB cable (scart) the colors is fine in a standart TV. It's the same cable to play import game. I can play with correct colors with this cable:
http://www.blueyonder.co.uk/assets/images/...box_300x250.jpg
or
http://www9.yatego.com/images/417d1e52856d...x_rgb_audio.jpg
So I don"t need to use dual bios. Juste put VGA cable to play on a monitor or put a scart cable to play on a TV (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
nb: this is not a Scart cable ! http://www.xbox-mod.co.uk/images/original_av.jpg
QUOTE
2. Games that do not reset the GPU before executing will be green.
(Morrowind, Splinter Cell 1 & 3, Jade Empire, etc.)
(Morrowind, Splinter Cell 1 & 3, Jade Empire, etc.)
No solution for these games (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)
Fable (when you die and reload the mission), Crimson Skies (when load mission), Cold Fear, Ghost Recon ADWF, ... all Ubisoft Game ?!?!
This post has been edited by -Zou-: Oct 27 2006, 03:41 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 28, 2006, 07:11:00 PM
QUOTE(-Zou- @ Oct 27 2006, 08:47 AM)
And if we patch the game to support 480p?
http://forums.xbox-s...howtopic=210156
http://forums.xbox-s...howtopic=210156
All correctly patched 480i games should work just fine.
Post by: KnightSh8der on October 30, 2006, 07:14:00 AM
to the encoder reset and XBOX 1.6 problem with VGA
My logics is:
- the Connexant, Focus and Xcalibur are setup through their serial interface pins at startup (This is also what is being patched by the vga patches in the bios for Connexant and Focus, correct?).
- Now, if a game comes along and sends the commands over to the encoder for reset, it resets the encoder (by bypassing the bios) with a command which must be IDENTICAL for CONNEXANT, FOCUS and XCALIBUR encoders, or some games would not work on the XCALIBUR anymore. So, if we find that command (from any game that resets the encoder at a well defined point -- Mechassault for example resets after one finishes a level) and could modify it to patch the CONNEXANT and FOCUS encoders for VGA output, rather than HDTV, it probably would also work on the xcalibur.
BTW.: I traced some wires on the XBOX 1.6 mainboard and compared them to rev1.4 and 1.1. Looks like some of the pins from the Conexant and focus chips are connected to the MCPX (e.g. pin 53 which is the reset line), but none of those pins on the MCPX are actually going to the Xcalibur anymore on a v1.6, but instead there are many connections between the Xyclops and the xcalibur chip on the 1.6 board. I wonder, if games which usually reset the encoder still can do that on a 1.6 board or if the cyclops chip sets up the encoder on boot time and that's it until the box is powered down again.
- Now, if that approach with the patching through software on a v1.6 doesn't work, then the xyclops chip prevents the xcalibur from being resetted, maybe, by keeping some line constantly at high (for example, according to the specs the reset line on the Connexant must be at low for some time for reset), which could also help us by patching the bios to keep that corresponding line at high on the connexant or focus encoder, which would prevent games from resetting the encoders, too.
Well, just wanted to let you know my thoughts.
PS.: does anyone know of a reverse engineered pinout for the Xcalibur? Currently I only know that HSYNC and VSYNC Inputs are on pin 30 and 31, which leaves another 98 pins to trace, if I have to do everything from scratch.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 30, 2006, 07:58:00 AM
)And as far as the v1.6 Xcalibur problem goes, the actual GPU itself is being patched properly, but the encoder is not, because we do not have any datasheets available to tell us what each register does. Without that datasheet, it would require extensive reverse-engineering to accomplish VGA output with the Xcalibur encoder.
And the games don't actually program the encoder at all, they program the GPU. It is up to the BIOS to set the pre-defined registers for the encoder.
Post by: KnightSh8der on October 30, 2006, 08:30:00 AM
So, what I noticed with Mechassault is, that when it resets the encoder or GPU or whatever. The screen goes green, but it does not output a HDTV signal as such, because that would be a different kind of "green". The output after the reset looks exactly like when one patches an M8v1.6 bios with your patch, which apparently patches the GPU correctly but not the xcalibur. So I was wondering, what Mechassault is actually doing? By comparing the screenoutput I concluded that it looks like it resets the encoder on a v1.4 (which you told me is wrong), not the GPU. So jsut to clarify, would the screenoutput with a wrongly set GPU and a correctly set encoder look exactly like with an incorrectly set encoder but correctly set GPU?
Thanks for explaining that to a noobie like me
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 30, 2006, 09:05:00 AM
If the GPU is patched but the encoder is not, then the encoder is recieving RGB when it is expecting a different signal, and the result is a green image. (This is what happens with Xcalibur encoders, because we do not have the datasheet to change the registers.) The same will also happen if it is the opposite, if the encoder is patched but the GPU is not, then the screen will also be green, because the encoder is expecting RGB but is recieving something different.
The 'green screen' problem with the Conexant/Focus encoders on some games is caused by the GPU not being reset before loading the game. The 'GPU patch' that I use, along with most other VGA bioses, is only activated when the GPU is reset. So basically, if you load a game that does not reset the GPU before loading, then the GPU goes back to it's original NON-PATCHED state and does not output RGB to the encoder, resulting in a green image.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 30 2006, 05:07 PM
Post by: KnightSh8der on October 30, 2006, 09:58:00 AM
Where did you learn all of this? It's amazing! I wish I knew all that stufF.
So, the Force480p/GPU Reset, which you are working on will force the GPU to reset everytime some new program loads up, meaning, it will reset the GPU, no matter if the game supports it or not. Correct?
I'm crossing my fingers, that it will work!
PS.: I'd like to help and speed things up, so if there is anything you think I could help you with, let me know! As I said, I have Rev. 1.1, 1.4 and 1.6 XBOXes here, so if you want me to test anything on a certain version, let me know.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 30, 2006, 10:21:00 AM
Unfortunately, the whole process is giving me some trouble, but i'm hoping to release an editted version of the X2 5035 BIOS with full VGA, GPU Reset, and Force480p functionality. (If I can get the X2 5035 BIOS working properly, then I also plan to do the same to the X3 and older X2 BIOSes also.) At the moment though, it's not yet a reality. (Haven't quite figured out how to disassemble and recompile a BIOS...)
NOTE: If there are any BIOS disassembling/compiling gurus out there, please feel free to PM me with some advice.
Post by: Zebes on October 30, 2006, 01:20:00 PM
Post by: -Zou- on October 30, 2006, 06:26:00 PM
Post by: mystery.tipster on November 15, 2006, 07:06:00 AM
I have a problem on some games using the VGA hack. When the xbox boots up it freezes on the flubber screen, this has happened on Need for Speed Carbon and a few others but they do load up and play fine if I load into XBMC first and then launcg game. I have tried various BIOS from 4981 upto 5035 but it is still the same.
I have X2 modchip, PAL box changed to NTSC, and xbox to component adaptor and then to VGA.
Anyone help?
Other than that the games are awesome
Adam
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on November 15, 2006, 09:44:00 PM
So basically, if your other backups/originals boot just fine and your only having a problem with a few specific games, then it's a BIOS issue and not an issue with the VGA patcher.
Post by: footix on November 26, 2006, 04:38:00 PM
the files seems to have been trashed away... could you please reup them?
thanks a lot
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on November 26, 2006, 04:41:00 PM
I have just been informed that the website that was hosting my vga patcher has either gone down, or no longer has the file available. (Thanks for the tip footix!
)So, here is the new link to where you can download my vga patcher.
VGA Patcher v0.7
http://forums.ngemu....t...id=122012
NOTE: You can also find my vga patcher at the 'usual places'.
Post by: footix on November 26, 2006, 04:55:00 PM
that was a freaking fast answer!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on November 26, 2006, 06:20:00 PM
QUOTE(footix @ Nov 26 2006, 05:55 PM)
great:)
that was a freaking fast answer!
that was a freaking fast answer!
LOL, yeah, I get that alot.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on November 28, 2006, 10:17:00 AM
Sorry, but it seems that the site that was hosting the new file is STILL having issues hosting my patcher.
So, as a more 'permanent' link, you can find my patcher 360Mods.com. (Textbook's Website)
You can find my patcher here: (Link to 360Mods.com)
http://www.360mods.net/Downloads/details/id=60.html
NOTE: And also, as I said before, you can also find my patcher at the 'usual places' under '/XBOX/PC Based Applications/bios tools/VGA Patcher'.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Nov 28 2006, 06:17 PM
Post by: DVADER on November 29, 2006, 09:50:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on November 29, 2006, 11:07:00 AM
Just post the link in this thread if you decide to mirror it.
Post by: landstack on December 01, 2006, 12:24:00 AM
Just wanted to say a big thanks for doing this and making it publicly available. I got so excited I added a VGA port to the back panel of my v1.0 box so I can use it anywhere there's a computer monitor available. It works great, except for the IGR 720p to 720p green issue, but that's not a big problem. If anyone is curious I used the internal HSYNC and VSYNC lines that go to the Conexant video encoder and buffered and inverted them with a 74HC125. That allowed me to use pull-up resistors on the outputs from 5V and create perfect TTL compatible sync signals. Make sure you power the 74HC125 with 1.5V though. Otherwise the gates will never hit their low-to-high threshold. I also installed a switch to turn off the sync signals in case the monitor supports sync-on-green. See the xbox linux Wiki for more info. I may do this on my v1.4 xbox also, but I might try the cable with the LM1881 sync separator this time (from Textbook's tutorial). It was a pain to dremel out all the holes and solder lots of wires to the motherboard. Can anyone tell me if that cable works well at 720p and 1080i in addition to 480p?
Thanks again Frosty!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 01, 2006, 12:44:00 AM
And also, I personally use the LM1881N cable, and I couldn't be happier with it. It doesn't produce 'perfect' TTL VGA signals, but it's really not noticable. And it also works perfect at all the HDTV resolutions too. (480p, 720p, 1080i)
I recommend the LM1881N cable simply because it doesn't require dremeling, and you can also use it on multiple XBOXes. (Although having a VGA port on the back of your XBOX is nice too!
)
Post by: DVADER on December 06, 2006, 09:28:00 AM
Here you go. PM me if you make a new version, so I can update it.
Post by: nachomans on December 09, 2006, 12:34:00 PM
Or we need LM1881N add on?
In case LM1881 is mandatory, without this, the xbox will output any signal? Just for testing while find some 1881...
Thanks!
This post has been edited by nachomans: Dec 9 2006, 08:52 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 09, 2006, 02:16:00 PM
If you use the LM1881N chip then your cable will work with ALL VGA monitors, whereas the other cable only supports Sync-On-Green ones.
Post by: nachomans on December 09, 2006, 03:23:00 PM
I made the cable, patch an x2 bios....and...
I can see the xbox animation in my monitor!!!!
BUt nothing more....no dash, no games....just black screen after xbox intro..
Any idea?
This post has been edited by nachomans: Dec 9 2006, 11:24 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 09, 2006, 08:17:00 PM
If you built your own cable, then your problem might be that your MODE is set to 1+3, which does not work with my patcher. Make sure it is set to 2+3. (HDTV Mode)
If you built your own cable, then make sure it is wired like this: (This cable is correctly wired for 2+3 mode)
(IMG:http://www.360mods.net/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/10005/image316.gif)
Also, make sure that your 480p, 720p, and 1080i settings are enabled in your Microsoft Dashboard. (My VGA patcher will not work if they are not enabled.) However, most monitors do not support 1080i, but all monitors should be able to support 480p and 720p just fine. (Although 480p is all that is necessary, but if your monitor supports 720p, then you should enable that too. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif) )
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Dec 10 2006, 04:22 AM
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 08:51:00 AM
So, I have to coonect to an hdtv through component, set all res on.
And what dashboard do you recoommend to have instant 480p or more after boot?
xbmc will use automatically HD, if enebled in MS dash?
Thanks!
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 09:56:00 AM
And there is a bios with force hd modes in 256k? Just for testing the cable...
This post has been edited by nachomans: Dec 10 2006, 05:57 PM
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 10:29:00 AM
I made a avip to vga cable.
Now...following the diagram, I get no boot, but after boot I can see avalaunch in 720p or 1080i
The only problem...is that I m getting all green....
Ill try to check all connections again...
BTW, you can use avalaunch in video composite or svideo, and set all res to enabled.....so we can avoid setting in ms dash
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 10, 2006, 11:21:00 AM
Once you get into your dashboard, try starting a game and then the colors should be normal.
NOTE: It is completely normal for you to not see the XBOX intro with a VGA BIOS. The 'flubber' intro is ONLY 480i, and most monitors cannot display 480i. Just wait for the intro to finish, and then your dashboard should show up just fine. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Dec 10 2006, 07:24 PM
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 12:58:00 PM
Ill try to launch xbmc from ava 480p...to see what happens...
There are a lot of diagrams, lot of them using diferent pins!
The metal avip connector isnĀ“t connected to anything?
And in http://www.xbox-linux.org/wiki/Xbox_VGA_HOWTO they bridge pin4 and 5 on vga connector.....
So confused...
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 02:36:00 PM
I test the cable too many times, all is connected acorded to last diagram posted here...
Crazy taxi 480p launched from ava:
http://img206.images...dsc00046og5.jpg
(seems pink and blue)
Ava just after booting xbox:
http://img182.images...dsc00047hm6.jpg
(green, pink....)
Xbox 1.4 focus encoder, using flash tsoped with vga patched bios (x2 based)
XBMC in 480p...seems to look ok, too bright, but colors are almost accurate
XBMC in 720p green
XBMC in 1080p green
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 10, 2006, 03:55:00 PM
The diagram you NEED to follow is the one that I posted a few posts back. It is the correct one to use.
Also, what BIOS are you using? X2 4981? X2 5035?
Did you follow the tutorial in the readme exactly?
NOTE: I was getting some similar results from a user called dav-coms who was also using a Focus encoder too, but then other people have also told me that Focus encoders work just fine with my patcher. Can any other Focus users confirm this?
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 04:03:00 PM
bios x2 4983, patched exactly like the readme says.
The only diference is that Im using tsop instead of modchip...
I cant use 5035 because of 256k tsop..
I though that x2 4983 was encrypted and cant be patched...but the readme says it can be patched.
What other vga patches or vga bios could I test? (only 256k)
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 10, 2006, 04:39:00 PM
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 05:02:00 PM
480p....looks weird...but.....turning on/off the monitor 2-3 times...and I get perfect picture!!!!!
At 720p or 1080i there isnt anything I can do....
With other patch (rgb.bios.patcher.v0.1)....the same thing happen....
BTW your patch is more stable..
So...I have nothing more to test....
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 10, 2006, 05:39:00 PM
QUOTE(nachomans @ Dec 10 2006, 06:02 PM)
Yup...more testing!!!
480p....looks weird...but.....turning on/off the monitor 2-3 times...and I get perfect picture!!!!!
At 720p or 1080i there isnt anything I can do....
With other patch (rgb.bios.patcher.v0.1)....the same thing happen....
BTW your patch is more stable..
So...I have nothing more to test....
So, you're using the X2 4981 BIOS now, correct? And 480p looks great then, but 720p/1080i don't look correct... strange. I have had very few people use my VGA patcher with a Focus encoder, so I haven't been able to do much testing.
I will see what I can do about Focus encoders, but for now, I hope only using 480p will be okay.
Post by: nachomans on December 10, 2006, 09:14:00 PM
480p with turning on/off the monitor, works perfect.
Tomorrow Ill patch a 4981, but I dont know if its the bios......seems like an encoder problem....
Post by: Metasparks on December 11, 2006, 03:35:00 AM
Post by: StompSC on December 11, 2006, 04:42:00 AM
I've got one problem in understanding the right settings...
XMBC is istalled as my dashboard.
Must the resolution be set only in the XMC Screen section of the Appearance Settings,
or must I start the MS Dash to make the setup there too,
like it is told in the XBMC Online Manual:
" Resolution: Changes the resolution that the User Interface is dasplayed. If your desired mode is not available, make sure you are using a compatible AV pack and have the modes enabled in the Xbox dashboard."
Thanks,
StompSC
PS I've net completed my cable yet, a friend has, and it seems he got only 480i in XBMC.
Post by: Hoyt on December 11, 2006, 05:14:00 AM
I've been following the subject of Xbox VGA setups with great interest over the past few days. Unfortunately I never learned the nuts and bolts for softmodding once I found out about the DuoX 2 GS modchip (I LOVE that cheap little dual bank setup).
I found something interesting that I have not seen mentioned in any of these threads and I thought I would post my findings in case it rang a bell with anyone that is tinkering with this (keep in mind that until six months ago I had never touched a game console before, so a lot of this is beyond my current level of understanding).
I have a Sony CPD-520GS 21" Trinitron monitor that has the RGB BNC connectors on the back of it. I have connected the cables from a standard Microsoft HD pack to these using BNC to RCA adapters and the picture seams sharp and clear with correct colors when VGA is enabled properly on the box. Someday I would like to build my own cable but for now this seems to work as far as the connection goes.
I first tried Frosty's VGA BIOS on a bank of the DuoX 2 on a 1.0 box and found it to work in the same pattern as a lot of folks (lots of games show up green). The games that did work looked so good I wanted to find out how to get the rest going.
I then read that softmod VGA patches worked more reliably; unfortunately I just do not understand how to configure a softmod (all the dodging around copyrighted material gets me lost quite a bit). I followed the method described by Textbook in this link on post #118:
http://forums.xbox-s...o...8396&st=105
Unfortunately I can not figure out the Ndure installs. I got a couple of them to work but they only set up Evox as a dashboard and I HATE Evox (I have loved UnleashX since I first got a box modded and want to keep using it). What I was able to figure out how to do was launch the out.xbe manually from the File Explorer. For some reason though when the box booted from the on board Microsoft BIOS everything was still green, and I mean everything, even games that worked right with the VGA BIOS.
Here's where it gets interesting though. I downloaded Frosty's patched 5101 BIOS for 1.0 boxes and flashed it to a bank of the DuoX 2 modchip, knowing that this BIOS was supposed to be a stock BIOS just with some visual glitches fixed.
Once I booted from the 5101 BIOS and clicked on out.xbe EVERYTHING WORKED. And I mean EVERYTHING, even the MS Dash was not "too green" when I booted into it from the UnleashX menu.
There is one odd behavior that my shed some light on things. When a game is launched that would always be green using the VGA BIOS from Frosty, it would switch to green during level changes. The games I have that did this are Counter Strike, Unreal Championship and I believe MechAssault. Once the level loaded though the green went away and the picture looked brilliant.
The softmod I installed was just off of the Auto Installer Deluxe 3.02 disc I created. I selected "One Click Install" with UnleashX selected as the dashboard. This is all I know about the type of softmod this is.
*If anyone knows how to get the out.xbe to launch automatically I would greatly appreciate that info!*
Also I wanted to mention that if I tried Frosty's VGA BIOS the out.xbe did not work, everthing that was normally green stayed green (I was hoping that would work).
So I guess what I am thinking is that there is a component in Frosty's 5101 BIOS for 1.0 boxes that when mixed with a component of dr_oldschool's patch makes a solution that seems to my eyes to be almost perfect. When I did get one of the Ndure patch setups working the colors were way too dark. The method in the above mentioned post gave pretty much perfect color rendition in all games and dashboards, the color even stayed perfect after hitting IGR repeatedly.
Sorry for the long winded post, but this subject has caught my attention just as good as when I first learned to upgrade an Xbox hard drive!
Also if anyone would like for me to test something I have several 1.0 and 1.6 boxes laying around in various states of modification (I collect them broken from pawn shops and fix them in my spare time). From what I have seen as far as VGA work goes I should hang on to the 1.0s.
Thanks to everyone for their hard work, these things look incredible in VGA!
Hoyt
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 11, 2006, 06:29:00 AM
QUOTE(StompSC @ Dec 11 2006, 05:42 AM)
Hi,
I've got one problem in understanding the right settings...
XMBC is istalled as my dashboard.
Must the resolution be set only in the XMC Screen section of the Appearance Settings,
or must I start the MS Dash to make the setup there too,
like it is told in the XBMC Online Manual:
" Resolution: Changes the resolution that the User Interface is dasplayed. If your desired mode is not available, make sure you are using a compatible AV pack and have the modes enabled in the Xbox dashboard."
Thanks,
StompSC
PS I've net completed my cable yet, a friend has, and it seems he got only 480i in XBMC.
In order to enable the 480p/720p/1080i settings you will need an XBOX HDTV cable, and you can only enable them through the Microsoft Dashboard. However, once they are enabled in the Microsoft Dashboard you can also enable/use them in all other applications.
QUOTE(Hoyt @ Dec 11 2006, 06:21 AM)
From what I have seen as far as VGA work goes I should hang on to the 1.0s.
Thanks to everyone for their hard work, these things look incredible in VGA!
Thanks to everyone for their hard work, these things look incredible in VGA!
Yep, the v1.0 XBOXes are definately the most 'VGA Friendly' of all the versions, and VGA is absolutely beautiful on the XBOX.
QUOTE(Hoyt @ Dec 11 2006, 06:21 AM)
I then read that softmod VGA patches worked more reliably; unfortunately I just do not understand how to configure a softmod (all the dodging around copyrighted material gets me lost quite a bit). I followed the method described by Textbook in this link on post #118:
http://forums.xbox-s...o...8396&st=105
http://forums.xbox-s...o...8396&st=105
If you want a 'perfect' softmod VGA solution, you just need to use NKPatcher v10-vga10. I would be more than happy to set you up with a customized version of NKPatcher if you'd like, all you need to do is tell me some information about your XBOX:
1. Which type of softmod are you using? (UDE2, NDure, etc.)
2. Do you only use the 'F' drive, or do you use 'F & G'?
3. Where is your dashboard located? (Example: 'E:\Dashboard\Default.xbe')
4. Do you have a directory on your 'E:' or 'C:' drive called 'shadowc'? (Not necessary, don't worry if you don't have it.)
If you would like you can simply send me a PM and I would be happy to help.
Post by: nachomans on December 11, 2006, 08:20:00 AM
480p with the on/off trick works perfectly.
720p and 1080i, looks bad, colors changed...
So.....Im almost sure that is a compatibility problem (with the focus encoder)
Post by: Hoyt on December 11, 2006, 11:56:00 AM
How can I tell what type of softmod I have? Like I said I have always used auto installer discs that I download (this one is from Auto Installer Deluxe v. 3.02). I have heard many say to use NKPatcher v10-vga10, but when I open it up there are just a bunch of files that I don't understand what to do with. The only Ndure package I could figure out how to install only had Evox as a dash (I hate that thing - only use it for BIOS flashing). I would greatly appreciate help in that area! Also I am not sure if I have the exact NKPatcher v10-vga10 file you mentioned now that I think about it. Where is it available? I searched on the usual place and didn't see that exact version number.
I usually use just F unless the drive size is very large. Funny thing is, before I launch the out.xbe, there is no G drive, when I launch it it shows up with the programs in their "proper" places. How large can F be?
My dashboard is located at c:\default.xbe as far as I know. I do not use Xbox Live so stealth is of no concern to me. I want to be able to boot into the MS Dash when I have the need, but I do not have to worry about a lot of the tricks that folks that play on Live have to deal with.
In all my Xbox moddings (which are few compared to most here) I have never dealt with a "shadowc" directory.
If this gets too long winded I'll be glad to PM you, but I figured you already had a ton of folks shouting in your ear as it is!
Thanks again,
Hoyt
Post by: nachomans on December 12, 2006, 09:30:00 AM
You can activate HD resolutions with avalaunch (with composite or svideo cable)
There is no need to connect HD pack to activate this.
By now.....best results.....ava as dashboard...launch dvd2box from ava.....and launch games and xbmc from dvd2box.
Better launch xbmc from dvd2box and launch games from xbmc...
Launching xbmc from dvd2box never give me green screen....
Post by: mcloum on December 12, 2006, 01:45:00 PM
I currently have a 1mb X2 5035 bios, if i remember correctly! If i wanted to flash my clean X2_5035 (512) onto bank 1 and a patch X2_5035 onto bank to do i just have to use EvoX and switch my bank selector to the approriate bank when flashing? also i cannot activate HD through avalaunch, says something about not being able to write to EEPROM when HDD is locked, any ideas?
Thanks in advance.
Mike
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 12, 2006, 02:09:00 PM
QUOTE(mcloum @ Dec 12 2006, 02:45 PM)
I currently have a 1mb X2 5035 bios, if i remember correctly! If i wanted to flash my clean X2_5035 (512) onto bank 1 and a patch X2_5035 onto bank to do i just have to use EvoX and switch my bank selector to the approriate bank when flashing? also i cannot activate HD through avalaunch, says something about not being able to write to EEPROM when HDD is locked, any ideas?
Well, I don't know much about Avalaunch, but the Microsoft Dashboard will always unlock the HD settings properly, so I recommend using that instead.
And as far as the banks, are you using a modchip or are you using your TSOP?
Post by: mcloum on December 12, 2006, 02:22:00 PM
I have looked in the MS dash and i dont see any HD options, do i need to have a HD pack connected for this to ultimatley work?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 12, 2006, 02:18:00 PM
QUOTE(mcloum @ Dec 12 2006, 03:22 PM)
The external switch says X2 Lite. Its been a while since i messed with my xbox so apologise for my cobwebs!
I have looked in the MS dash and i dont see any HD options, do i need to have a HD pack connected for this to ultimatley work?
Yes you will need one. Alternatively though, you can build the VGA cable, and then you can enable your HD options 'blindly' if you want to. (The VGA cable shows up as being an HDTV cable.)
Post by: mcloum on December 12, 2006, 02:45:00 PM
So are my steps correct for flashing the BIOS? I=On the external switch i have 3 dip switches
On/Off
Protect/Unprotect
Bank1/Bank2
Can i just flash over the current 1mb BIOS and flash 2 seperate 512k BIOSes?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 12, 2006, 03:11:00 PM
I would recommend finding a flashing tutorial for your Xecuter2, you can probably find them on Xecuter's website, or you can check the 'Xbox Bioses' forum here on Xbox-Scene.com. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Dec 12 2006, 11:11 PM
Post by: Hoyt on December 13, 2006, 08:05:00 AM
I have a question regarding cables like you guys are talking about though. I am currently using a Microsoft HD pack and plugging it into the RGB BNC connectors on my monitor.
Does anyone make a VGA cable with RGB RCA plugs on it that I could plug into the HD pack so I could use it on other monitors without having to build a special cable? If so I would love some info, that would make this rig portable without a lot of effort.
Thanks again - everyone here has been very helpful!
Hoyt
Post by: DVADER on December 15, 2006, 01:08:00 PM
QUOTE(Hoyt @ Dec 13 2006, 10:05 AM)
I want to thank Frosty again for all his help getting the VGA softmod working!
I have a question regarding cables like you guys are talking about though. I am currently using a Microsoft HD pack and plugging it into the RGB BNC connectors on my monitor.
Does anyone make a VGA cable with RGB RCA plugs on it that I could plug into the HD pack so I could use it on other monitors without having to build a special cable? If so I would love some info, that would make this rig portable without a lot of effort.
Thanks again - everyone here has been very helpful!
Hoyt
I would use http://www.cablesnmor.com/vga-rca-cable.html with female to female gender changers on both ends.
Post by: landstack on December 16, 2006, 01:21:00 AM
I was just curious if you used a 680kohm, 470kohm, or different sized resistor in your VGA cable? I was also thinking about the few games with the green problem. Do you think it is possible to hex edit an xbe and add the few lines of assembly code required to reset the GPU? I know Foe-hammer did a lot of disassembling xbe's for the purpose of progressive patching them, maybe he would know if he's still around. I've noticed the problem with games that have a separate xbe for the multiplayer. eg. Call of Duty 3 I think this is the problem with Surreal as well, since there are several separate xbe's for each emulator. Just thought I'd bring it up and see if it's possible. Thanks for everything!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 16, 2006, 07:36:00 AM
And as far as hex editting/disassembling an xbe goes, it might work, but i'm not sure. The only way that I know of to fix the problem is to inject the GPU reset code into the xboxkrnl_3 routine in the XBOX kernel. (BIOS)
Unfortunately though, this is easier said than done.
Post by: brendon7800 on December 17, 2006, 09:25:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 17, 2006, 09:32:00 PM
As far as the colors go, do you have the Conexant encoder, or the Focus encoder? I have heard mixed information regarding the Focus encoder, some say it works properly, some say that it doesn't...
Post by: brendon7800 on December 18, 2006, 07:20:00 AM
Post by: brendon7800 on December 18, 2006, 09:39:00 AM
I'm going to try Evox M8 with the special patcher that Frosty made for that bios.
I'll post my results, unless you can think of something else I should try.
Question to all the people out there using this with working results:
What is your setup? xbox version, bios version, monitor ect.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 18, 2006, 10:03:00 AM
QUOTE(brendon7800 @ Dec 18 2006, 10:39 AM)
Correction: I'm using Evox 3.6 with the VGA patcher 0.7
I'm going to try Evox M8 with the special patcher that Frosty made for that bios.
I'll post my results, unless you can think of something else I should try.
Question to all the people out there using this with working results:
What is your setup? xbox version, bios version, monitor ect.
Hmm, it might just be an incompatibility with that BIOS version.
I would definately try the Evox M8+ because that BIOS is confirmed working with Conexant encoders. (Make SURE you are using the v1.0-v1.5 version of the Evox M8+, the v1.6 will FRAG your XBOX.)
Also, make sure your VGA cable is set for Mode 2+3.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Dec 18 2006, 06:08 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on December 18, 2006, 10:20:00 AM
I have looked at the Evox 3.6 BIOS, and I can CONFIRM that it is not compatible with VGA Patcher v0.7.
Please use my Evox M8+ VGA Patcher with the Evox M8+ BIOS, as 'VGA Patcher v0.7' is not compatible with Evox 3.6.
NOTE: Be sure to follow the tutorial in the 'readme.txt' file in my Evox M8+ VGA Patcher EXACTLY. Also, make SURE that you are using the Evox M8+ for v1.0-v1.5 XBOXes, DO NOT use the v1.6 version, it is only for v1.6 XBOXes, and it is not supported.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Dec 18 2006, 06:26 PM
Post by: brendon7800 on December 21, 2006, 08:48:00 AM
And when the spash screen is loading, it says out of range.
Are there any other bioses that you recomend that have worked with conexant chips?
I really don't want to have to spend $75-$100 on a X2VGA+ adapter.
And thanks for all your help and hard work.
Post by: Foe-hammer on December 22, 2006, 04:53:00 AM
QUOTE(brendon7800 @ Dec 21 2006, 08:55 AM)
Frosty, I tried the M8+ with your special patcher for it, and I still am getting a white tint on my screen.
And when the spash screen is loading, it says out of range.
Are there any other bioses that you recomend that have worked with conexant chips?
I really don't want to have to spend $75-$100 on a X2VGA+ adapter.
And thanks for all your help and hard work.
I recommend the latest, or the one prior, X2 bios. Or the X3 bios if you have a X3 chip. That is what i used to patch with frosty's vga bios, and it works perfectly.
Post by: dokworm on January 07, 2007, 08:26:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on January 09, 2007, 07:20:00 PM
Here are some pictures:
LM1881N VGA Cable - (Picture taken from 360Mods.com) (Best Option)
(IMG:http://www.360mods.net/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/10005/circuit.gif)
My Finished LM1881N VGA Cable - (I built this cable myself, and it is based on the above diagram.)
(IMG:http://www.360mods.net/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/10005/vga_cable.jpg)
Sync-On-Green VGA Cable - (Picture taken from 360Mods.com)
(IMG:http://www.360mods.net/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/10005/image316.gif)
Microsoft XBOX HD Pack w/Component-to-VGA Cable
(IMG:http://www.xbox.com/NR/rdonlyres/83A9BE81-49E1-4BE8-B438-110CD8AF205A/0/ilmhighdefinitionavpack001.jpg)
(IMG:http://www.ramelectronics.net/assets/images/video/55-873-RCA-6.jpg)
Hope these pictures help. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on January 13, 2007, 02:49:00 PM
NOTE: Be sure to follow the diagrams in the above post for building the actual VGA cable, and be sure to read the included 'readme.txt' files in my VGA patchers for instructions on how to use them.
VGA Patcher v0.7 - (Supports all hacked BIOSes, EXCEPT Evox BIOSes)
http://home.earthlink.net/~emccord01/VGA%2...cher%20v0.7.rar (DVADER's Mirror)
http://www.360mods.net/Downloads/details/id=60.html (360mods.com, Textbook's Website)
http://dwl.xbox-scene.com/~xbox/xbox-scene...atcher.v0.7.rar (Xbox-Scene.com)
Evox M8+ VGA Patcher - (Supports ONLY the Evox M8+ BIOS for v1.0-v1.5 consoles, this patcher is based on VGA Patcher v0.7)
http://dwl.xbox-scene.com/~xbox/xbox-scene...VGA_Patcher.rar (Xbox-Scene.com)
NOTE: These patchers can also be found on xbins, under the '/XBOX/PC Based Applications/bios tools/VGA Patcher' directory.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Jan 13 2007, 11:01 PM
Post by: landstack on January 14, 2007, 02:22:00 AM
The issue you are having with a whitewashed screen is probably caused by your monitor. I would have to read up on exacly why this happens, but from experience, some monitors will do this if they receive a sync-on-green pulse and TTL vsync/hsync signals simultaneously. I know my NEC multisync monitor does that. If you're using textbook's cable (LM1881), you can try just disconnecting the hsync and vsync lines and see if your monitor will sync on green. If so, the video should be properly clamped (correct brightness and contrast). Also, just try another vga monitor if you can get a hold of one. As a last resort, some type of circuitry could be built that removes the sync pulse from the green channel after it gets to the LM1881 sync separator.
So.. Frosty, I'm slightly curious if its possible to remove the sync pulse that is injected into the green channel by the encoder. Of course, this would render the LM1881 cable and sync on green solutions useless since it would no longer be able to rebuild sync signals. It would, however, help with better clamping and video quality for those that pulled vsync and hsync off of the GPU. This isn't a terribly important feature, but if it's just a matter of sending an extra setting to the encoder over I2C, it might be worthwhile. Take care....
Post by: landstack on January 14, 2007, 02:55:00 AM
bit name -- location -- value -- description
SLAVER -- Bit 5āRegister 0xBA -- 1 --Ensures CX25871 in slave or pseudo-master interface
EN_XCLK -- Bit 7āRegister 0xA0 -- 1 -- CLKI used as pixel clock source.
SETUP -- Bit 1āRegister 0xA2 -- 0 -- Setup off.
OUT_MODE -- [1:0] Bits 3:2āRegister D6 -- 11 -- Video [0-3] = 11 = VGA Output Mode:
DAC_DISD -- Bit 3āRegister 0xBA -- 1 -- Disables DACD output. Current is set to 0 mA.
HDTV_EN -- Bit 7āRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- DACs output HDTV compatible RGB
RASTER_SEL -- [1:0] Bits[1:0]āRegister 0x28 -- 00 -- Default state. No need to reprogram.
RGB2PRPB -- Bit 6āRegister 0x28 -- 0 -- Default state. No need to reprogram.
BPB_SYNC_DIS -- Bit 3āRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- Disables sync on Blue output
GY_SYNC_DIS -- Bit 4āRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- Disables sync on Green output
RPR_SYNC_DIS -- Bit 5āRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- Disables sync on Red output
is it possible?
Thanks for humoring me...
Post by: jedininja666 on January 16, 2007, 04:27:00 PM
Now for the bit I don't understand....why exactly do I need to patch the bios in order to get this set up to work? As I understand it UnleashX will recognise an HD pack, so shouldn't it be irrelevent that the attached component cable ends with a vga connector? Surely to all intents and purposes this is just an HD pack?
I'm really confused by all this. I bought the xbox pre-modded and have never had to touch the bios, so I am hesistant at having to do anything I don't understand.
Any help on this matter would be greatly appreciated. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
This post has been edited by jedininja666: Jan 17 2007, 12:27 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on January 16, 2007, 06:57:00 PM
QUOTE(landstack @ Jan 14 2007, 03:55 AM)
ok, for the conexant, here is how the registers would have to be set to remove all sync pulses from the output (some of these may already be set to the correct value):
bit name -- location -- value -- description
SLAVER -- Bit 5ĀRegister 0xBA -- 1 --Ensures CX25871 in slave or pseudo-master interface
EN_XCLK -- Bit 7ĀRegister 0xA0 -- 1 -- CLKI used as pixel clock source.
SETUP -- Bit 1ĀRegister 0xA2 -- 0 -- Setup off.
OUT_MODE -- [1:0] Bits 3:2ĀRegister D6 -- 11 -- Video [0-3] = 11 = VGA Output Mode:
DAC_DISD -- Bit 3ĀRegister 0xBA -- 1 -- Disables DACD output. Current is set to 0 mA.
HDTV_EN -- Bit 7ĀRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- DACs output HDTV compatible RGB
RASTER_SEL -- [1:0] Bits[1:0]ĀRegister 0x28 -- 00 -- Default state. No need to reprogram.
RGB2PRPB -- Bit 6ĀRegister 0x28 -- 0 -- Default state. No need to reprogram.
BPB_SYNC_DIS -- Bit 3ĀRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- Disables sync on Blue output
GY_SYNC_DIS -- Bit 4ĀRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- Disables sync on Green output
RPR_SYNC_DIS -- Bit 5ĀRegister 0x28 -- 1 -- Disables sync on Red output
is it possible? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) Thanks for humoring me...
Well, it is indeed possible, but if you disabled the sync output on the encoder, you would be required to solder directly to the H/V sync lines coming off the GPU, and you would also have to buffer the signal too, and most people would have alot of trouble doing that.
For the record though, my personal view is that the LM1881N is the best option for ANY VGA monitor, expecially considering the fact that you don't have to solder anything to the motherboard. You can build a fully VGA compliant cable with just that chip alone. Granted that the signal isn't 'perfect', but then again, who can honestly tell the difference? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
QUOTE(jedininja666 @ Jan 16 2007, 05:34 PM)
Hiya, really interested about getting my xbox to work with my Samsung widescreen 205BW monitor. I intend to buy a MS xbox HD pack as well as a standard component-to-vga cable. My monitor has sync-on-green and my xbox has an xecuter 2 mod chip and is running the latest version of UnleashX.
Now for the bit I don't understand....why exactly do I need to patch the bios in order to get this set up to work? As I understand it UnleashX will recognise an HD pack, so shouldn't it be irrelevent that the attached component cable ends with a vga connector? Surely to all intents and purposes this is just an HD pack?
I'm really confused by all this. I bought the xbox pre-modded and have never had to touch the bios, so I am hesistant at having to do anything I don't understand.
Any help on this matter would be greatly appreciated. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
The XBOX needs more than just cable-changing to generate a VGA signal. The Component-to-VGA cable only converts the 3 RCA connectors into a single VGA connector, it doesn't actually change the signal. The original XBOX was never meant to be hooked up to a VGA monitor, so without modifying the GPU/encoder signals internally (through the BIOS) you will not get a VGA picture. Instead you will get a fully green-tinted picture that would probably give you a headache if you tried to play anything with it.
So, to have VGA output on the XBOX you need both a cable, and a VGA-patched BIOS.
Post by: weinerschnitzel on January 17, 2007, 07:40:00 AM
Would it at all be possible to get this to work on a 1.6 through... trial and error?
I completely understand that this is shooting for the moon, and if you refuse thats totally cool. I would be willing to test for you and what not. Otherwise I'll just get a hold of a 1.5.
Your efforts are MUCH appreciated.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on January 17, 2007, 09:35:00 AM
QUOTE(weinerschnitzel @ Jan 17 2007, 08:47 AM)
I am very excited to know that this is working. Well unfortunately, I have a 1.6, bummer. I understand that there aren't any data sheets on the xcalibur encoder, and this may seem out of the question.
Would it at all be possible to get this to work on a 1.6 through... trial and error?
I completely understand that this is shooting for the moon, and if you refuse thats totally cool. I would be willing to test for you and what not. Otherwise I'll just get a hold of a 1.5.
Your efforts are MUCH appreciated.
Actually, it is definately possible through trial and error, and to tell you the truth I have actually already spent hours testing it with a v1.6 I have here at home, but it's proving to be really difficult, if not impossible without the datasheet. (Mostly because i'm still not sure what part of the hex in the BIOS really is/isn't the Xcalibur registers.)
Honestly, I don't see it being done by anyone without a real datasheet, as random hex editting gets pretty tedious, and usually doesn't work out the way you intend. But if you decide that you want to switch your v1.6 for an older version, I HIGHLY recommend getting a v1.0 or a v1.1, because the Conexant encoders produce much better results with VGA. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Jan 17 2007, 05:35 PM
Post by: efinidc on January 18, 2007, 04:16:00 AM
QUOTE(landstack @ Jan 14 2007, 10:29 AM)
As a last resort, some type of circuitry could be built that removes the sync pulse from the green channel after it gets to the LM1881 sync separator.
Hello,
First off, big thanks back to X-scene for all the vga mods and information.
Situation:
I also have the white screen tint problem as well. This was tested on an NEC AccuSync 95F and a NEC MultiSync. Both monitors are not Sync on Green and exhibit the white tint issue. I am using a vga cable built with a LM1881 with HDTV mode enabled. To verify that the problem was not caused by an improper vga bios or poorly made vga cable, I tested my xbox vga setup flawlessly on a friend's Iiyama CRT monitor and it worked perfectly immediately. I have also tried switching the 680k resister on the LM1881 to 470k, as some people have said it helps. Out of frustration, I even went as far as adding 3x 220 uf capacitors on the RGB lines and a 7404 hex inverter buffer for the h and v sync out of the LM1881 on both my NEC monitors.
Question:
It sounds like I can hopefully fix the white tint issue with a sync stripper as landstack posted. My question is this: would the EL8102 be acceptable to remove the sync from the green line? If not, or if there is another alternative chip with less parts, could someone please recommend one?
Chip Info:
http://www.intersil.com/cda/deviceinfo/0,1477,EL8102,00.html
Datasheet Application in PDF for sync stripping in component.
http://www.intersil.com/data/an/an9513.pdf
thanks in advance.
This post has been edited by efinidc: Jan 18 2007, 12:31 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on January 18, 2007, 11:56:00 AM
Be sure to let us know how it works out.
Post by: dmx_wyrw on January 18, 2007, 05:36:00 PM
Instead of green I get a slight pink tint i am using the X2 5030 bios it seems that the colors are correct only instead of a green tint on IGR i get pink
Post by: efinidc on January 18, 2007, 07:16:00 PM
Post by: landstack on January 21, 2007, 10:21:00 PM
frosty: sorry to harp on this, but I thought it would be nice to get rid of the green sync pulse since I pulled the sync's off of the GPU. I was studying the hex code of the bios change and the connexant datasheet, and couldn't find a common connection as to where the i2c commands are. Also, when/if I find them, can I add more hex commands to the file (increase file size), or will that screw things up? Anyway, can you just copy this line and edit it to show where an i2c write is, where the connexant chip's address is, and where any register values are? I would really appreciate it. Thanks again for the continuing support.
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 8C 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46
Post by: landstack on January 21, 2007, 10:32:00 PM
This post has been edited by landstack: Jan 22 2007, 06:42 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on January 21, 2007, 11:20:00 PM
QUOTE(landstack @ Jan 21 2007, 11:28 PM)
efinidc: Yes, that circuit is exacly what you need to get rid of the sync pulse that your monitor is not liking. Just make sure you don't include the last 75ohm Rt resistor that's on that diagram (figure 2) since it is built in to the monitor. Looks like you shouldn't have any trouble, but let us know if you do.
frosty: sorry to harp on this, but I thought it would be nice to get rid of the green sync pulse since I pulled the sync's off of the GPU. I was studying the hex code of the bios change and the connexant datasheet, and couldn't find a common connection as to where the i2c commands are. Also, when/if I find them, can I add more hex commands to the file (increase file size), or will that screw things up? Anyway, can you just copy this line and edit it to show where an i2c write is, where the connexant chip's address is, and where any register values are? I would really appreciate it. Thanks again for the continuing support.
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 8C 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46 0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 8C 00 00 46 - This hex code is for the 480p output.
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46 - This hex code is for the 720p output.
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46 - This hex code is for the 1080i output. (720p and 1080i initialize in the encoder the same way when VGA is being outputted.)
Honestly, most of my code is based upon dr_oldschool's and Masticism's work. dr_oldschool is the pioneer of VGA softmods, and Masticism is actually the REAL person who figured out how the registers work. (Masticism solved the 720p/1080i purple tint issue originally.)
If you compare my hex edits to the actual source code for NKPatcher v10-vga10, you will find that the registers in my patching program and the registers in NKPatcher v10-vga10 are exactly the same. The only difference is how they are being applied to each individual hacked BIOS. (NKPatcher was only meant for retail BIOSes, so it was incompatible with modchip BIOSes.)
NOTE: I also use a different method to force the GPU to output RGB, and that method is very similar to Yoshihiro's RGB code from 'back in the day', when VGA was just barely being introduced.
So basically what i'm saying is, most of my work is a compilation of all of the best work from others being put into an auto-patching application that searches and replaces the appropriate hex code within a given BIOS.
So, Masticism and dr_oldschool might be the better people to talk to as far as the details on the Conexant/Focus registers.
QUOTE(dmx_wyrw @ Jan 18 2007, 06:43 PM)
Hey frosty first thanks for the info and hardwork On VGA 4 the xbox.
Instead of green I get a slight pink tint i am using the X2 5030 bios it seems that the colors are correct only instead of a green tint on IGR i get pink
Interesting. I'm assuming though, that the colors are displaying properly otherwise though, right? Meaning, that the screen only turns pink when using IGR, right? If so, that is definately a new side-effect that I have not seen.
Are you using the Focus encoder, or the Conexant encoder?
Post by: dokworm on January 22, 2007, 05:45:00 AM
Your patch finally got me to run VGA and the quality jump is truly awesome.
A lot of PAL games seem to still switch to green, and my old mameox does too, but a lot of my favourite games are just dandy and look great on my big monitor.
Thanks!
Post by: landstack on January 22, 2007, 08:18:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on January 23, 2007, 11:24:00 PM
QUOTE(landstack @ Jan 22 2007, 09:25 AM)
Thanks frosty, I figured it out by looking at the nkpatcher source. The only bad thing is that I don't think I can write to register 0x28 on the connexant to disable sync generation. Oh well, at least I can play around with the registers that are available now. I suppose I can do the sync removal method by using a hardware circuit. BTW, have you ever heard that the sync pulses running from the GPU to the encoder are at double frequency? I read that on a forum and didn't know if it was true. Thanks again!
Yeah, I heard that too. (Although I have no personal experience with the GPU sync signals.) AFAIK, they do run at double-frequency, and they also run at a higher voltage too.
Post by: dmx_wyrw on January 24, 2007, 05:12:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Jan 22 2007, 01:27 AM)
Are you using the Focus encoder, or the Conexant encoder?
I am using Conexant.
its the monitor that im using i think.
It may be on its last legs. However, when i tried to connect the same cable with the lm1881n chip to another moniter it just flashes on and off very fast -no video.
All of this aside it still seems to be working correctly.
1.0 xbox tsop flash X2 5035 bios.
Post by: efinidc on January 26, 2007, 06:15:00 AM
What is the significance of the 6.8K ohm 'pull-up' resister (RB) in figure 2 of the component application?
http://www.intersil....a/an/an9513.pdf
I see the arrow so it looks like it is a potentiometer. Lastly, for the green channel, can I directly pull that off the AVP pin or must it come off a pin of the 1881?
Thanks in advance.
Post by: landstack on January 31, 2007, 08:52:00 PM
QUOTE(efinidc @ Jan 26 2007, 02:22 PM) 
The EL8120s came in the mail today. They are surface mount and I decided to order dip adapters for them. Unfortunately they are very expensive. Obviously, I cannot fit the EL8120s and LM1881 inside the XBOX AVP head anymore, so I opted for a bread board in a small project box.
What is the significance of the 6.8K ohm 'pull-up' resister (RB) in figure 2 of the component application?
http://www.intersil.com/data/an/an9513.pdf
I see the arrow so it looks like it is a potentiometer. Lastly, for the green channel, can I directly pull that off the AVP pin or must it come off a pin of the 1881?
Thanks in advance.
Well, it is part of a divider that adds a DC component to the output. This must be done so that the output varies in the proper range (~0-0.7V) & -0.2V sync. They show it as a rheostat so you can adjust it to the proper level once the circuit is built. Basically, it's a manual clamping control. You would probably still get a picture without this voltage divider in place, but it would be extremely dark (crushed blacks). Since you'll be using this on just the Green channel, the picture would look purple.
You can pull the green channel directly off the AVP or off of the input to the LM1881--pin 2 (its the same node), it doesn't matter. Let me know how it works out.
This post has been edited by landstack: Feb 1 2007, 04:59 AM
Post by: efinidc on February 01, 2007, 12:05:00 AM
Thanks for the reply, that was the answer I was exactly looking for!
The problem is exactly as you described. My screen does look purple and I thought I built the circuit incorrectly. I used a fixed resister at 6.8K ohm instead of a pot. I will go to Radio Shack this weekend and retry it again with a 10k pot.
Post by: backup on February 03, 2007, 02:37:00 AM
QUOTE(efinidc @ Feb 1 2007, 08:05 AM)
Landstack,
Thanks for the reply, that was the answer I was exactly looking for! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)
My screen does look purple
Hi, excuse me for my english..i'm italian
this is my question: Is there a mode to running xbmc at 1280x1024 or 1024*768?
This resolution are optimal for pc monitors (i have samsung sm 930bf sog).
i ask this because in my xbox 1.1 (connexant),i build a vga cable and i using vga bios (ind bios vga bfm..) and when i set 720p resolution my screen does look purple!
I don't know if there is a new bios bfm that resolve this problem...any help?
Post by: efinidc on February 03, 2007, 01:28:00 PM
In my locality, many individuals are selling used CRTs for rather low prices. I took the lazy and easy way out and bought a Dell Branded Sony Ultrascan p1110 for $30 USD. It is SOG and the colors are gorgeous with the vga bios and cable on the XBOX.
For the White tint issue presented by non SOG monitors, purchasing a second hand SOG monitor does not seem like such a ridiculous idea after all.( Provided, your locality has many available and at low prices.) Building the sync stripper was fun and challenging. However, in my opinion and situation, in the end, purchasing another monitor was the more feesible solution as CRTs are being sold for such low prices. All the small parts and shipping adds up! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)
This post has been edited by efinidc: Feb 3 2007, 09:30 PM
Post by: biketuna on February 08, 2007, 08:35:00 AM
Thanks
Post by: Foe-hammer on February 16, 2007, 10:16:00 AM
QUOTE(biketuna @ Feb 8 2007, 08:42 AM)
Do I need vga bios for component output?
Thanks
Are you serious? Are component and vga the same thing? The word 'VGA' is used in vga bios for a reason.
Post by: sasamaes on February 25, 2007, 02:30:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Jan 17 2007, 03:57 AM)
The XBOX needs more than just cable-changing to generate a VGA signal. The Component-to-VGA cable only converts the 3 RCA connectors into a single VGA connector, it doesn't actually change the signal. The original XBOX was never meant to be hooked up to a VGA monitor, so without modifying the GPU/encoder signals internally (through the BIOS) you will not get a VGA picture. Instead you will get a fully green-tinted picture that would probably give you a headache if you tried to play anything with it.
So, to have VGA output on the XBOX you need both a cable, and a VGA-patched BIOS.
Finally! I was searching for that info (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)
So here's my question: When you are using a device like x2vga+, wich converts the component YPbPr signal to vga, you're not getting as much quality as you cant get with the own-built vga cable and the modded bios, right?
Are there any comparision pictures around?
Thanks a lot!
Post by: HalfSpec on March 18, 2007, 11:42:00 PM
I'm having trouble getting my VGA output function correctly. I built an internal VGA port using this schematic and used Frosty's .7 patch to patch my X3Ās 3294 bios. The patch seems to have worked because when I load a dashboard with the bios enabled everything looks green through my component cables. However, when I flip switches 1 + 3 as indicated in JaredC01's diagram I get nothing. I'm a pretty clean and confident solderer, but I double checked to make sure I didn't do anything stupid and the continuity between all points checks out like it should. This is the process I'm following to enable VGA
#1) Plug in xbox HD component cable with all switches turned off
#2) Turn on xbox and boot to m$ dashboard (I've tried with the modchip enabled & disabled)
#3) Enable 480P output
#4) Unplug Xbox HD component cable and hook up a VGA cable to my new VGA port
#5) Enable Frosty's patched 3294 bios
#6) switch 1+3 on
#7) Boot xbox
That's what I do and I don't get any type of output. I'm trying to output to a BenQ W100 projector and it supports just about every VGA input signal known to man, but I can't get anything out of the xbox.
Am I doing something wrong? Has anyone successfully patched the 3294 bios for VGA? Should I try a patched X2 bios?
I appreciate any tips you can provide.
Lane
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on March 19, 2007, 05:34:00 PM
Resolder your jumper wires on your VGA cable to be in 2+3 mode, and you will be set.
NOTE: Jared_C01's diagram is out of date, 1+3 was the old way, but recent VGA methods, especially mine, require 2+3 mode. (HDTV mode, so that you get 480p, 720p, and 1080i in VGA.
)Here's a link to the most current VGA cable tutorial: (Textbook's Tutorial)
http://www.360mods.n...cle/sid=32.html
Post by: HalfSpec on March 19, 2007, 09:36:00 PM
Oh well, at least I can run it through the component inputs, but it does chap my ass that I spent the time troubleshooting the mod all for naught.
Lane
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on March 20, 2007, 10:29:00 AM
And sorry to hear about your projector, that's a bummer...
Post by: HalfSpec on March 22, 2007, 03:22:00 PM
I do appreciate all the work you did to put this patch together.
Lane
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on March 24, 2007, 05:38:00 PM
QUOTE(HalfSpec @ Mar 22 2007, 03:29 PM)
I do appreciate all the work you did to put this patch together.
Anytime, i'm always glad to help where I can. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Mar 25 2007, 12:39 AM
Post by: pimpysmurf on April 03, 2007, 11:09:00 PM
I am using the following equipment,
xbox v1.0
conexant encoder
vga cable for SOG monitors
Dell 2005fpw.
x2 5035 bios
xecuter 2.6
the issue is that after I mod the bios with the utility and flash the chip 480p works as expected, however 720p and 1080i are a bright purplish pinkish color.
I have tried xecuter bios 5035,5032, 4981, and evox m8plus. All producing the same result.
If I take a 5035 or 5032 bios and manually hex edit the code with the conexant part the pinkish color is almost under control
If I add both the conexant part and the VGA Code Enabler I end up with a super pinkish screen in xmbc or avalaunch.(both look fine in 480p)
any thoughts, or suggestions?
thanks
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on April 04, 2007, 02:22:00 AM
Post by: pimpysmurf on April 04, 2007, 07:20:00 AM
results are on that are about the same, except it is more jumpy on the screen,
I will build a cable with a circuit in 3 to 15 days when my sample from national semiconducter comes in and try that, 480p is nice, but I want 720p.
on a side note, I put a standard 5035 bios back on the machine and on my dell it works in 720p and 1080i, It boots green like expected and then when xmbc loads it looks correct. I am assuming my monitor accepts component connections through vga.
thanks for the help frosty!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on April 04, 2007, 08:39:00 AM
NOTE: I'm willing to bet that if you only change the 'VGA Enabler Code' and the '480p VGA Code' in your BIOS to be VGA compatible, and just leave 720p & 1080i unchanged in your BIOS, everything will probably work properly with your monitor.
---BEGIN DETAILED CONEXANT ENCODER CODE---
480p VGA Hex Patch:
Replace this:
CODE
0C AD 48 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 8C 00 00 46
With this:
CODE
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 8C 00 00 46
720p VGA Hex Patch:
Replace this:
CODE
0C AA 49 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 21 00 00 46
With this:
CODE
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46
1080i VGA Hex Patch:
Replace this:
CODE
0C AB 49 90 8C 8C 01 9C E1 21 00 00 46
With this:
CODE
0C 00 48 80 80 80 01 98 E1 21 00 00 46
VGA Enabler Code:
Replace this:
CODE
74 12 89
With this:
CODE
90 90 89
---END DETAILED CONEXANT ENCODER CODE---
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Apr 4 2007, 03:50 PM
Post by: pimpysmurf on April 05, 2007, 08:29:00 PM
moved the xbox over to my evo projector and it booted up great in 480p, tried 720p. The colors where prefect and the image was nice and sharp, however the top fourth or fifth of the screen was wavy. I booted up with an unmodded bios and I did not have this issue (nice and green but no waves). and oddly enough if I powered the box off and on a few times it would occasionally be jumpy the entire time until I booted it again.
I build the circuit using a 470kohm resistor, could a different value perhaps bring me a better result?
thanks,
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on April 05, 2007, 10:02:00 PM
I would try the 680k first, and then if that doesn't work try the 320k. Also note though that you can actually use any resistor you like between 320k and 680k. (I usually use 470k resistors.)
Post by: brilliantdonkey on April 07, 2007, 03:09:00 AM
I think I read that nkpatcher doesn't work with non-retail bioses, but I don't know what the best bios loader would be for this situation (loading a BFM bios on an xbox with a hacked bios already)
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on April 08, 2007, 01:25:00 AM
Post by: pimpysmurf on April 12, 2007, 02:25:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Apr 5 2007, 10:09 PM)
Yes, the resistor is what decides the 'compatibility' of the generated VGA sync signals, so changing it could very well fix the problem. The most common resistors used are 320k, 470k, 570k, and 680k.
I would try the 680k first, and then if that doesn't work try the 320k. Also note though that you can actually use any resistor you like between 320k and 680k. (I usually use 470k resistors.) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
I finally got around to trying the other resistors and had some unexpected results,
first I tried a 680k and had the same results, then I dropped to a 320k and once again the same results, I tried a couple of resistors in the middle and still had the same results, I would of expected something different. I even removed the resistor completely and had the same result. (I think it is an issue with the evo projector).
one thing that is a little weird is that on first boot the screen brightness would flash from bright to dim rapidly, if I unplug the vga connection and then plug it back in, the monitor would readjust and be fine (well all except the top fifth which would quiver like before.).
I am not sure where to go from here, maybe softmod the box, I have heard it has better vga output still. any opinions or suggestions frosty?
thanks
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on April 12, 2007, 02:58:00 PM
So, try just wiring the Red, Green, Blue, and RGB grounds only, and see if that helps.
NOTE: The actual signal 'quality' with my VGA Patcher and the VGA Softmods is the same. You wouldn't notice a difference using a VGA softmod.
Post by: pimpysmurf on April 12, 2007, 03:41:00 PM
thanks for all the help frosty!
Post by: PunMaster on April 30, 2007, 01:32:00 PM
Mode 1 ----- TV: green tinted video - VGA: no video
Mode 2 ----- TV: no video ----------- VGA: no video
Mode 1+2 --- TV: green tinted video - VGA: no video
Mode 3 ----- TV: green tinted video - VGA: no video
Mode 1+3 --- *See Below* --------------------------
Mode 2+3 --- TV: no video ----------- VGA: no video
Mode 1+2+3 - TV: normal video ------- VGA: no video
* Mode 1+3 was the most interesting. When I first turned my Xbox on I got a correctly colored "LOADING iND-BiOS" message on my VGA monitor. Then, after a few seconds, the message disappeared, my VGA display went blank, and my TV filled with green lines and other indistinguishable garbage.
Has anyone else had these problems? Am I missing something obvious? Thanks!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on April 30, 2007, 05:21:00 PM
NOTE: You can only enable 480p with an HDTV cable connected, and you NEED the Microsoft Dashboard to enable it.
NOTE 2: If you do not have an HDTV or an HDTV cable, you can just connect the 'Green' video connector to a standard 'Yellow' RCA connector on a normal TV. The picture will be in black and white, but you will be able to see what you are doing.
Post by: Risca on May 06, 2007, 03:31:00 AM
I'm working on the cable right now, but it would be rather useless if I can't use it for my Linux box.
My specifications:
Xbox 1.0
Conexant encoder of course
128mb ram
GentooX installed as native OS (no FATX here)
SmartXX v2 (it have som weird "Linux" menu in it's OS, but I don't know exactly what it does, other than boot Linux)
These specs makes it impossible for me to use an ordinary BIOS, unless I would boot with a CD each time, and that's just a pain.
And one more thing, you still need a patched BIOS for proper VGA even though you're running Linux, right? Linux don't have any magic ability to patch the encoder once booted?
Keep up the good work, frosty
Note: Won't mode 2+3 signal the xbox that a HD cable is connected, and fool Microsoft dashboard in believing that there is a HDTV cable inserted. I mean, 2+3 is HDTV-mode, right?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 06, 2007, 11:11:00 PM
Linux already has full support for VGA. Just make your cable a 1+3 cable (NOT 2+3, Linux is different) and Linux will fully support it, no patching needed.However, if you are going to use this cable for actual XBOX gaming, then you need to patch a BIOS with my VGA patcher, and make your cable a 2+3 cable. (HDTV)
And yes, by having your cable in 2+3 mode, the XBOX does indeed think it is an HDTV cable, and this allows you to use HD resolutions over a VGA cable.
Post by: g-rasshopper on May 07, 2007, 04:38:00 AM
Firstly, thanks for all the work you've done on this. I can't understand why M$ didn't build VGA support into the Xbox as a standard feature. It would after all have cost them practically nothing. It's frustrating that my Dreamcast currently produces a far better picture (through VGA) than my Xbox.
I've got a question regarding the Xcalibur encoder.
My understanding is that European Xboxes can output an RGB scart signal, and RGB scart signals treat colours in the same way as VGA. So would it be possible to find out how a European BIOS programs the Xcalibur to produce an RGB scart signal? You could then just copy the code, without having to understand how it works, to add Xcalibur support to your patch.
Just a thought.
This post has been edited by g-rasshopper: May 7 2007, 11:41 AM
Post by: The Zep Man on May 07, 2007, 05:52:00 AM
QUOTE(g-rasshopper @ May 7 2007, 01:14 PM)
My understanding is that European Xboxes can output an RGB scart signal, and RGB scart signals treat colours in the same way as VGA. So would it be possible to find out how a European BIOS programs the Xcalibur to produce an RGB scart signal? You could then just copy the code, without having to understand how it works, to add Xcalibur support to your patch.
Reverse engineering the Xcalibur is possible (hell, ANYTHING is possible)) , but I think it's a hell of a job.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 07, 2007, 06:57:00 AM
The only thing is that the registers table for the Xcalibur encoder (and also the Conexant and Focus encoders) has a totally different layout for each output type, meaning it has a differently formatted table for Composite/S-Video, SCART, HDTV, etc...
I have already located the HDTV registers table for the Xcalibur encoder, but i'm totally lost as to what to actually change...
Everytime I attempt to reverse-engineer the HDTV encoder table on the Xcalibur encoder, I spend hours thinking of logical ways to do it, but every attempt so far just ends up in a FRAG. Then, at which point I will get frustrated and just give up, which has been the on-going cycle for months now...
If anyone out there has better hex-editting skills than I do, or feels confident, please feel free to improve upon my work. Xcalibur support would be a great thing to see in the future.
Post by: g-rasshopper on May 07, 2007, 10:31:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ May 7 2007, 02:33 PM)
The only thing is that the registers table for the Xcalibur encoder (and also the Conexant and Focus encoders) has a totally different layout for each output type, meaning it has a differently formatted table for Composite/S-Video, SCART, HDTV, etc...
So are you saying that the Xcalibur/Conexant/Focus encoders have to be programmed differently depending upon the refresh rate? If you are then that would of course massively complicate matters. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 08, 2007, 01:56:00 PM
However, the register tables for the colors are different for each cable type. Meaning that HDTV and SCART have their own individual hex code, and that code is only used if that particular type of cable is used.
I have not experimented with the *possible* similarities in the code for HDTV and SCART, because I am still somewhat lost as to what code actually applies to what cable, because of the fact that the Xcalibur encoder is so largely undocumented...
However, it *might* be possible to use a SCART cable to produce a VGA compliant signal by use of a sync-doubler, but I have not tried this myself...
Post by: g-rasshopper on May 08, 2007, 03:11:00 PM
Incidentally, how many registers in total are there?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 08, 2007, 04:21:00 PM
Well, here's the full register table for the Xcalibur encoder... (each line is cut off and continued on the next line, the shorter line is really the rest of the line above it... damn forum limitations...
)CODE
0C 0D 0E 0F 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 14 15 1A 1B 38 39 40 41 42 43 46 47 48 49 4A 4B 4C 4E 4F 50 51 60 62 69 6C 73 74 7C 7D 80 81 82 89 8A 92 93 9A 9B B2 B3 C0 C1 0C 0D 0E 0F 0C 0D
01 20 15 00 B6 00 18 00 80 02 00 00 00 10 06 00 16 00 1F 00 82 00 21 F0 7C 1F 89 00 7C 40 80 3E 00 46 02 3C 00 91 91 19 24 14 04 3C 00 67 21 0C 13 13 C4 48 00 00 55 05 00 00 03 20 15 04 00 20
01 20 15 00 8F 00 18 00 D0 02 00 00 00 00 06 00 16 00 1F 00 82 00 21 F0 7C 1F 89 00 7C 40 80 3E 00 46 02 3C 00 91 91 19 24 14 04 3C 00 67 21 0C 13 13 C4 48 00 00 55 05 00 00 03 20 15 04 00 20
01 20 15 00 B6 00 18 00 80 02 00 00 00 10 06 00 16 00 1F 00 82 00 21 F0 7C 1F 89 00 7C 40 80 3E 00 3C 01 3C 00 9D 9D 19 24 14 04 3C 00 67 21 0C 13 13 C4 48 00 00 55 05 00 00 03 20 15 04 00 20
01 20 15 00 8F 00 18 00 D0 02 00 00 00 00 06 00 16 00 1F 00 82 00 21 F0 7C 1F 89 00 7C 40 80 3E 00 3C 01 3C 00 9D 9D 19 24 14 04 3C 00 67 21 0C 13 13 C4 48 00 00 55 05 00 00 03 20 15 04 00 20
01 20 15 00 B6 00 18 00 80 02 00 00 00 10 06 00 16 00 1F 00 82 00 21 E6 EF E3 8D 00 7C 40 80 2B 1F 46 02 3C 00 91 91 12 24 14 40 3C 00 57 2F 07 16 16 C4 48 00 00 55 05 00 00 03 20 15 04 00 20
01 20 15 00 8F 00 18 00 D0 02 00 00 00 00 06 00 16 00 1F 00 82 00 21 E6 EF E3 8D 00 7C 40 80 2B 1F 46 02 3C 00 91 91 12 24 14 40 3C 00 57 2F 07 16 16 C4 48 00 00 55 05 00 00 03 20 15 04 00 20
01 21 15 00 92 00 19 00 80 02 C3 30 00 10 54 00 C8 00 3F 00 A4 00 2A 09 8A CB 8D 00 7C 3C 9A 2F 21 3F 00 3E 03 9D 9D 1A 1E 15 49 3E 03 57 2F 07 16 16 C4 48 00 80 D7 05 00 00 03 21 15 04 00 21
01 21 15 00 67 00 19 00 D0 02 C3 30 00 00 54 00 C8 00 3F 00 A4 00 2A 09 8A CB 8D 00 7C 3C 9A 2F 21 3F 00 3E 03 9D 9D 1A 1E 15 49 3E 03 57 2F 07 16 16 C4 48 00 80 D7 05 00 00 03 21 15 04 00 21
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01 21 15 00 73 00 1C 00 BE 02 00 00 00 03 02 00 08 00 1F 00 82 00 2A 09 8A CB 8D 0C 7C 3C 9A 2F 21 3F 00 3E 03 9D 9D 1A 1E 15 69 3E 03 57 2F 07 16 16 C5 48 00 80 D7 05 93 93 03 21 15 04 00 21
Post by: g-rasshopper on May 09, 2007, 11:22:00 AM
If it's the latter, then someone ought to run it through a disassembler. If it's the former, then I'm astonished that so much data is needed, unless M$ deliberately made the chip hard to program in an attempt to thwart hackers.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 09, 2007, 04:31:00 PM
It's massive... i'm willing to bet, as you did, that Microsoft did this on purpose.
I'm also willing to bet that only 10% of that table is even used to program the chip, the rest is bogus.
Thanks Microsoft!
Post by: PunMaster on May 13, 2007, 09:47:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 13, 2007, 01:09:00 PM
This mode is not compatible with VGA, which is why it looks so strange. Very few monitors can handle it...
But as for a 'fixer' app, yes, it is possible to create an application that switches to 480i and then exits back to the dashboard, then the dashboard would switch it back to 480p upon loading, which would essentially cause a 'GPU reset' and fix the colors... but I am not a very good programmer when it comes to XBOX applications, so I would not personally be able to do this myself.
However, I do have the necessary code for Force480p and ForceGPUReset, which would fix the VGA problems with modchips 100%, but I cannot get the JUMP command in any XBOX BIOS to work properly to inject this code at the end of the 'xboxkrnl_3' routine.
I am sure the only reason I cannot get this to work is because I am an amateur at code injection, so if anyone out there has more experience with code injection, PLEASE PM me and maybe we can work as a team to get a perfect VGA BIOS for modchip users.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: May 13 2007, 08:09 PM
Post by: PunMaster on May 14, 2007, 06:25:00 PM
Post by: Foe-hammer on May 15, 2007, 02:02:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ May 13 2007, 01:45 PM)
However, I do have the necessary code for Force480p and ForceGPUReset, which would fix the VGA problems with modchips 100%, but I cannot get the JUMP command in any XBOX BIOS to work properly to inject this code at the end of the 'xboxkrnl_3' routine.
I am sure the only reason I cannot get this to work is because I am an amateur at code injection, so if anyone out there has more experience with code injection, PLEASE PM me and maybe we can work as a team to get a perfect VGA BIOS for modchip users.
Damn...good job, Frosty. I wish i could help, but am clue less on the subject.
PEOPLE WITH THE KNOW HOW, PLEASE HELP FROSTY SO WE CAN HAVE FULL 480P COLOR SUPPORT ON THOSE GAMES AND APPS THAT REVERT BACK TO GREEN.
Post by: MarkusLange on May 15, 2007, 02:32:00 PM
Just about 3 hours ago, I thought it would never be possible to get a HD VGA signal out of my Xbox...
By chance I read something about FrostyTheSnowman's BIOS Patch but I didn't believe this would ever work for me (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)
Thanks to you, Frosty, it works perfectly now! My 1.4 Xbox (Focus Encoder) delivers a 1280x720 RGB signal which is displayed perfectly on my 15" NEC LCD monitor! Due to the fact that my display is 4:3 instead of 16:9, the image is stretched, but it still looks awsome (IMG:style_emoticons/default/love.gif)
I built the sync separator circuit in january and connected my display to the Xbox directly, which means without a color conversion circuit or a VGA BIOS. As a result I got a mostly green image with some colors like yellow missing (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)
Now, when I watch the display, another world full of beauty seems to appear; everything has changed for me with your BIOS mod! (Yeah, maybe I'm crazy (IMG:style_emoticons/default/jester.gif) )
GREAT WORK! I can't find the right words to express the thankfulness I feel. Think I'll do some advertising in our German XBMC forums (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)
Greetings from Stuttgart, GER
Markus
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 15, 2007, 02:53:00 PM
QUOTE(MarkusLange @ May 15 2007, 03:08 PM)
Hi There!
Just about 3 hours ago, I thought it would never be possible to get a HD VGA signal out of my Xbox...
By chance I read something about FrostyTheSnowman's BIOS Patch but I didn't believe this would ever work for me
Thanks to you, Frosty, it works perfectly now! My 1.4 Xbox (Focus Encoder) delivers a 1280x720 RGB signal which is displayed perfectly on my 15" NEC LCD monitor! Due to the fact that my display is 4:3 instead of 16:9, the image is stretched, but it still looks awsome
I built the sync separator circuit in january and connected my display to the Xbox directly, which means without a color conversion circuit or a VGA BIOS. As a result I got a mostly green image with some colors like yellow missing
Now, when I watch the display, another world full of beauty seems to appear; everything has changed for me with your BIOS mod! (Yeah, maybe I'm crazy
)GREAT WORK! I can't find the right words to express the thankfulness I feel. Think I'll do some advertising in our German XBMC forums
Greetings from Stuttgart, GER
Markus
Thanks Markus, i'm always happy to hear that my VGA patcher is working for people. VGA is a beautiful thing on the XBOX, isn't it?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 18, 2007, 09:35:00 PM
VGA Patcher v0.8 and Evox M8+ VGA Patcher (Based on VGA Patcher v0.8) are both available for download at the 'usual places'!
Changes:
- Simplified the Evox M8+ patching process
- Fixed incorrect colors with IGR
- 100% support for 'green screen' games
Go get em! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)
NOTE: Special thanks goes out to PunMaster for helping me with the code injection that was needed to make this release possible. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif)
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: May 19 2007, 04:41 AM
Post by: Foe-hammer on May 18, 2007, 10:44:00 PM
Good job, Frosty!
You've done more for the xbox vga project then any other.
Thanks for taking the time to tackle this project and sticking with it until it was finished.
This post has been edited by Foe-hammer: May 19 2007, 05:45 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 18, 2007, 11:04:00 PM
QUOTE(Foe-hammer @ May 18 2007, 11:20 PM)
Thanks for taking the time to tackle this project and sticking with it until it was finished.
LOL, thanks.
Let's just say i'm a BIG supporter of the XBOX-VGA scene.
Post by: PunMaster on May 18, 2007, 11:30:00 PM
One thing I thought I'd mention while I was at it is that although the readme suggests duel-booting BIOSes to get both VGA and composite, there's another solution for those who don't mind modifying their composite video cable. All you need to do is put the Xbox into SCART mode and the composite line will be driven with a perfect accurate-color video signal. Simply ground all three mode pins and your composite will work without needing to use a non-VGA BIOS. This was an ideal solution for my Xbox especially because I mounted VGA and composite ports right on the box (with a switch to change video modes).
Anyway, I'm glad I was able to help. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy.gif) Like Frosty said... VGA is a beautiful thing on the Xbox.
Post by: MarkusLange on May 20, 2007, 02:05:00 AM
I've still got one problem:
If I run Linux (GentooX), I get a "greenish" picture on my display, which means that everything which is normally white turns into green.
Currently my AV cable is in HDTV mode, and this is why Linux still outputs component video signals. Can Linux be forced to output RGB instead of component?
Looking forward to an answer...
Markus
Post by: PunMaster on May 20, 2007, 09:12:00 AM
Post by: MarkusLange on May 20, 2007, 10:57:00 AM
I also suspected the AV mode to be responsible for that problem. Looks like opening the case once more is the only chance I have
(I removed the original AVIO port)regards,
Markus
Post by: PunMaster on May 20, 2007, 02:09:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 21, 2007, 02:52:00 PM
Because Surreal XXX, MAME, etc. are fixed in this version of my VGA Patcher, but if the disc overwrites the running BIOS in any way, it might be breaking the VGA code... what emulators are actually on the disc?
Alternatively, can you tell me what files are in the root of the disc?
Also, i'm assuming all his previously 'green screen' games are working properly now with my VGA Patcher v0.8, other than B.A.E.D right?
Post by: Foe-hammer on May 21, 2007, 08:56:00 PM
QUOTE(PunMaster @ May 19 2007, 12:06 AM)
Hey. Nice to see Frosty got the patcher out so quickly! It was only a few hours ago that I sent him the code injection info. Great job!
One thing I thought I'd mention while I was at it is that although the readme suggests duel-booting BIOSes to get both VGA and composite, there's another solution for those who don't mind modifying their composite video cable. All you need to do is put the Xbox into SCART mode and the composite line will be driven with a perfect accurate-color video signal. Simply ground all three mode pins and your composite will work without needing to use a non-VGA BIOS. This was an ideal solution for my Xbox especially because I mounted VGA and composite ports right on the box (with a switch to change video modes).
Anyway, I'm glad I was able to help.
Like Frosty said... VGA is a beautiful thing on the Xbox.I wanted to extend my appreciation for the invaluable help you offered to the vga bios with helping Frosty injecting the code. Thank you.
Post by: PunMaster on May 23, 2007, 12:59:00 PM
QUOTE(Foe-hammer @ May 21 2007, 10:32 PM)
I wanted to extend my appreciation for the invaluable help you offered to the vga bios with helping Frosty injecting the code. Thank you.
No Problem.
Anyway, I finally got around to building that sync separator circuit and testing my Xbox with as many monitors as I could. My findings were interesting to say the least.
Results:
GEM LCD:
- - SOG compliant
- - Works with and without sync separator (no difference)
- - Looks beautiful at 480p
- - Works at 720p but display is very blurry
- - Works at 480i but is very blurry
- - Works at 1080i and looks quite nice but I get an "Out of Range" message overlaid on my video
IBM LCD:
- - SOG compliant
- - Works without sync separator but flickers intermittently
- - Works fine with sync separator
- - Looks beautiful at 480p
SONY LCD:
- - SOG compliant
- - Works with and without sync separator (no difference)
- - Looks beautiful at 480p
- - Works pretty well at 720p with just a minor overscan issue
- - Does not work at 480i
MAG CRT:
- - Not SOG compliant
- - Sync separator must be used, resistor value is irreverent but must be present
- - Does not work at 480p
- - Works at 720p but top 15% of screen is garbled and distorted
- - Does not work at 480i
NEC CRT:
- - Not SOG compliant
- - Sync separator must be used, resistor value is irreverent and can even be omitted completely
- - Works at 480p but screen is white tinted (turning down the brightness helps a little)
- - Works at 720p, white tint still exists but is less noticeable
- - Does not work at 480i
Any resolutions not listed have not been tested.
The two CRTs are the most interesting. The MAG only works at 720p. Know why? The NEC was also weird. Like I said above, the sync separator must be in place but will work without the resistor. Any ideas?
I've heard that some of the problems might be caused by the SOG signal still being in the green line even after the sync separator. Would it be possible with software to turn off SOG and put the sync on the composite line instead (doesn't SCART do something like that?). That way you could hook the sync separator to that and keep the green line "clean". Just an idea.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 23, 2007, 01:24:00 PM
Also, as far as the other monitors go, some monitors can handle the VGA signal being output by the XBOX just fine, and some can't... the reason for this is because the XBOX does not output a 100% native VGA signal. (power levels, resolution, etc. are different)
Most new CRTs and LCDs however are usually able to be used with the XBOX just fine.
Also, in case anyone is wondering, here's the information on my personal LCD (for my XBOX):
Acer AL1916 19" LCD (4:3 aspect ratio, Non-SOG compliant)
XBOX v1.0
Conexant Encoder
LM1881N-based VGA Cable
480p = Perfect, no flaws whatsoever
720p = Perfect, no flaws whatsoever
1080i = Does not work, resolution is not supported
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 23, 2007, 07:46:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 24, 2007, 08:36:00 PM
If they are set to run in 480i, that is your problem. 480i is not correctly displayed with my VGA patchers, as 480i is not VGA compatible.
Only 480p, 720p, and 1080i will show up correctly, so double-check that your emulators are running in at least 480p.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 25, 2007, 04:16:00 PM
DMAUL, I just personally tested the original B.A.E.D disc with an X2 5035 BIOS patched with VGA Patcher v0.8, and the emulators look perfect... what BIOS are you using, and are you 100% sure you are using VGA Patcher v0.8?
This is my 'test' setup:
1. v1.0 XBOX, Conexant Encoder
2. Duo X2 flashed with X2 5035 BIOS (patched with VGA Patcher v0.8)
3. Original B.A.E.D disc w/X-PORT emulators (Atari 2600, Atari 5200, SNES, NES, etc.)
I put in the disc, and launch it, and I see the emulator selection menu (in perfect VGA color), then when I select an emulator, the screen turns green for about 3 seconds (this is normal, it is the GPU resetting) and then the emulator loads up in perfect VGA color.
So, what is your setup? What BIOS are you using? Are you sure you are using VGA Patcher v0.8? (do not use VGA Patcher v0.7, it does not have the GPU reset code)
I have a feeling that you are using VGA Patcher v0.7 (which DOES have 'green screen' problems), when did you patch your BIOS? I released VGA Patcher v0.8 (this version fixes 'green screens') less than a week ago, so if it has been longer than that since you patched your BIOS, then you are using VGA Patcher v0.7...
Post by: PunMaster on May 29, 2007, 08:17:00 PM
When I try it with just one color line connected, the "white screen" actually becomes a light shade of that respective color. So it seems that all three color signals just have incorrect voltages that result in their range being too small. This means that all colors will be shifted towards the lighter end of the spectrum. Creative use of op-amps on all three lines should be able to fix the problem. I'll have to play with it. Anything else anyone has to add would be appreciated.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 29, 2007, 09:42:00 PM
But as far as the voltage levels go, that is very likely the problem. Component and VGA are dramatically different video standards, so I wouldn't be surprised if the voltage levels are also different. I've never paid any attention to the specifics of Component levels and VGA levels, i've always just wired up the LM1881N-based VGA diagram as the norm, and it has always worked for me.
Although, there are many monitors out there that do have 'white tint' issue, so if you could improve the current VGA diagrams, i'm sure many people would be very happy.
Post by: alucard_xs on May 29, 2007, 09:50:00 PM
If you've got a real picture (with 1 -> 6 and 1- 21 I believe), it would be nice
Thanks
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 29, 2007, 10:38:00 PM
QUOTE(alucard_xs @ May 29 2007, 10:26 PM)
It looks really cool but I'm still having some problems making the VGA cable, I don't really know where is the top and the bottom of the vga plug et the AV plug on the xbox ? so it's quite embarassing for soldering ...
If you've got a real picture (with 1 -> 6 and 1- 21 I believe), it would be nice
Thanks
If you've got a real picture (with 1 -> 6 and 1- 21 I believe), it would be nice
Thanks
Are you creating a cable, or soldering directly to the AVIP?
Also, which diagram are you using? (Sync-on-Green, or Non-SOG)
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 30, 2007, 06:41:00 AM
When you are looking at those diagrams, you will see two sides of the connector. (top and bottom) The one with the light grey edges is the top, as those light grey edges are there to illustrate the 'notches' you will see on the edges of the top of the connector.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 30, 2007, 08:04:00 AM
I do recommend though that you use a Dual-BIOS setup, because VGA patched BIOSes do not support normal video cables, only VGA cables.
If you wanted to, you could easily create a BFM (PBL) BIOS with VGA Patcher v0.8 and XBtool. I use a PBL X2 5035 BIOS w/VGA Patcher v0.8 all the time.
Let me know if you need help creating a BFM (PBL) BIOS.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 30, 2007, 09:44:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on May 31, 2007, 01:54:00 PM
I have contacted Talismoon about having 'homemade' LM1881N-based XBOX VGA cables manufactured professionally, and they have decided to start making some prototypes.
They will be sending me a few to test out and 'approve', and if all goes well you may be able to buy these cables from online retailers like Divineo and others for about $20 or so.
Let's hope it happens! I will be sure to keep you guys updated.
Post by: Yoshihiro on June 01, 2007, 12:21:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Oct 14 2006, 07:45 PM)
Yoshihiro has a VGA BIOS? Hmm, I will have to look into his method and see if I can duplicate it. I personally don't have a FOCUS encoder, (I have 2 Conexant XBOXs) so yes, your testing would be very helpful.
HI FrostyTheSnowman you have forget nobody in your read me i'm not dead like i've read here you have get a bunch of reverse from my bios
. Np good work Yoshihiro 88
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 01, 2007, 07:23:00 AM
QUOTE(Yoshihiro @ Jun 1 2007, 12:57 AM)
HI FrostyTheSnowman you have forget nobody in your read me i'm not dead like i've read here you have get a bunch of reverse from my bios . Np good work
Yoshihiro 88
. Np good work Yoshihiro 88
Yoshihiro, I wasn't aware you were still part of the scene, good to see your still active!
But, i'm actually not using any of the code from your BIOS, nor did I reverse engineer your BIOS at all for my patchers, I was actually able to solve that problem with dr_olschool's code. All of my work can be directly traced back to dr_oldschool's VGA work. But, that being said, I still respect your work with VGA on the Focus encoders, and I admire what you did for the 'early' XBOX VGA scene.
But, if I release a new version of my VGA patchers, I will be sure to include your name for historical purposes.
Post by: efinidc on June 02, 2007, 04:08:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ May 31 2007, 09:30 PM)
Small update!
I have contacted Talismoon about having 'homemade' LM1881N-based XBOX VGA cables manufactured professionally, and they have decided to start making some prototypes.
They will be sending me a few to test out and 'approve', and if all goes well you may be able to buy these cables from online retailers like Divineo and others for about $20 or so.
Let's hope it happens! I will be sure to keep you guys updated.
Right on! I have been making VGA cables for all my friends and family and I have run out of the MS composite cables to sacrifice. But in all honesty, making a cable is time consuming, especially trying to fit a LM1881 inside the AVP. $20 is definitely well worth it.
I'm definitely surprised to hear the work on XBOX VGA 1 is so alive and kickin'. First VGA patcher 0.8 with green tint fix and now a manufactured cable. I'm looking forward to force 480p if/when it comes out.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 03, 2007, 10:53:00 AM
From the Microsoft Dashboard, follow these steps: (make sure your XBOX is in NTSC mode first)
Down 5 then A
Down 3 Then A
Down 1 Then A
Left 1 time Then A
Hit B 3 times
Restart XBOX
@PunMaster:
I just noticed this thread a minute ago, apparently someone bumped a 1 1/2 year old thread, but it might be useful:
http://forums.xbox-s...howtopic=500906
Post by: alucard_xs on June 03, 2007, 11:33:00 AM
Post by: smoke_screen_uk on June 04, 2007, 02:48:00 AM
I've been following this and many other XBOX and HD to VGA threads, forums and sites for the last year or so and have been planning to mod my box for VGA output or make a transcoder so I can use monitors for other formats other than just VGA.
Most of my findings have been hardware based but have looked over just about all the xbox mods too.
I want to say a MASSIVE THANKS to Frosty the Snowman and everyone in his appreciation list for all the work gone into making Frosty's development come along so well and so quickly.
I've been following this thread for the last few days and have been getting quite excited that as soon as I'm done decorating that I'll be able to get my xbox displaying on my 21" monitor with little more than tweaking my current VGA mod design.
QUOTE(PunMaster @ Jun 4 2007, 12:16 AM)
That circuit seems to be exactly what I was thinking. The MAX4383 is roughly equivalent to the EL8102 except that the MAX contains 4 amplifiers on one chip. Unfortunately, the diagram's extremely vague (what happened to the other two pages?).
I just noticed this as well as the post in the forum it's from and realised it was part of one of the designs I had downloaded over the last year and that I could complete the set (in a higher resolution).
Main Diagram:
MAX4383 Diagram:
LM1881 Diagram:
Here is also a link to Ken Gasper's website (not been updated for many years by the looks of things):
Ken Gasper's XBOX VGA Adapter
On another note, here is something else some of you might find interesting.
While looking through the LumenLab forum for building a transcoder I found a mention of the LMH1251 chip which is a Component Video to VGA transcoder in a single chip with support for all SD and HD standards and also has a selectable VGA input.
Here is a diagram by one of the forum members based on one in the data sheet:
Anyway, hope some of the above helps someone out there.
I was going to add more but I've got to go to work now so I'll be back later today.
Post by: PunMaster on June 04, 2007, 09:56:00 AM
Post by: PunMaster on June 06, 2007, 10:22:00 PM
Expect details by the end of the night.
Post by: smoke_screen_uk on June 07, 2007, 06:46:00 AM
QUOTE(PunMaster @ Jun 7 2007, 05:58 AM)
White tint fixed perfectly!
Expect details by the end of the night. Fantastic work PunMaster! I'm looking forward to being able to get my mod up and running as soon as I've finished painting and got the furniture back the way it should be.
I was originally going to make an all in one AV breakout box from an xbox SCART lead (Similar to the HD pack but the box on it just has a toslink digital audio connector and a SCART plug on a wire.
My plan was to change the wire from the AVIP plug for a full SCART cable so that I could port all the audio and video, as well as the mode select, +5v and DC return wires to the breakout box.
I then wanted to mount:
- 3x RCA for Component Video
- 1x RCA for Composite Video
- 1x RCA for Coaxal Digital Audio
- 2x RCA for Analog Audio
- 1x 4pin Mini Din for SVideo
- 1x HD 15pin Dplug for VGA
- 1x SCSI ID selector (binary 0-8) for mode select
I know it all sounds a bit cramped but I figured that not everything would be connected at the same time.
I actually wanted to have a second HD 15pin D for VGA in so I could use it as a pass-through enabling me to switch the monitor between it's use as a secondary display for my PC and as a display for the XBOX.
I also had plans to have LEDs above each set of sockets to indicate which was active depending on the mode selected.
Originally the VGA was going to be based on the old method of VGA mod and/or the LMH1251 chip I pointed out in my previous post. Now if I do go the whole hog and make what I have planned, I will probably just use this new Frosty-Mod method.
I did have the advantage with my design that I didn't need to change banks on my mod chip to switch between VGA mode and normal mode. In fact I found that you could cycle through the modes and the xbox would restart each time the video mode changed.
At the moment I find it a bit of a pain swapping banks on my Xecuter 3 mod chip because I only have the standard front panel that comes with it. It has a strip of 5 dip switches for bank select and bank protect. Not only are they fiddly to change, there are 15 different configurations for banks depending on the size and location you want (2MB chip).
I know... I can the bank in software if I hold down the white button when I'm using an X3 bios... but not if I choose to use a different bios.
Speaking of the X3 BIOS, has anyone ever noticed the option for VGA in there?
I've tried this a few times but never known what it did, if anything, or what else I might need to do to make it work if it did do something.
Anyway, I think I've said enough... or too much... so I will end this post here before I digress any further.
Well done once again PunMaster for the white tint/gamma correction,
and thanks as always to Frosty and all the others involved in the creation and continual progression of this VGA mod
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 07, 2007, 07:11:00 AM
QUOTE(PunMaster @ Jun 6 2007, 10:58 PM)
White tint fixed perfectly! Expect details by the end of the night.
Expect details by the end of the night. Sweet! Can't wait hear more about how you got this fixed!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 07, 2007, 11:30:00 PM
Between me and you (and all other VGA BIOS developers from the past) I think we have practically come up with the end-all VGA solution for the original XBOX console. (Excluding v1.6 owners...
)I don't have the time to test out your diagram at the moment, but I am truly impressed by the work you have done. I will be sure to create a new cable with your diagram added into it when I get some time.
Thanks for your contributions to my VGA support thread PunMaster, I really feel like this whole thread has developed into something way beyond what I originally intended it to ever be.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 13, 2007, 06:46:00 AM
QUOTE(DMAUL @ Jun 12 2007, 09:55 PM)
Turns out I hadn't enabled 480p in the emulators (I had no idea they had a settings menu--I assumed so, but I never checked). It is working fine with X2 4078 + VGA .8 as well as X2 5035 + VGA .8.
Sorry for taking so long to get back to you. I fucked up my xbox's harddrive partitions a few days after my post. I went on vacation for a week, and then fixed it with xboxhdm about a week later.
LOL, it's all good. I'm just glad to hear that everything is working properly now.
Post by: phrozenfeonix on June 13, 2007, 11:20:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 13, 2007, 11:26:00 AM
QUOTE(phrozenfeonix @ Jun 13 2007, 11:56 AM)
Call me naive, but is there any bioses yet so i can have VGA on xbox live? Or am i still stuck with buying a transcoder?
Nope, and I don't think there ever will be unfortunately. You see, Microsoft checks the current BIOS running on your XBOX, and if it is modified in any way, you will be banned, so a VGA BIOS isn't really possible...
Transcoders are currently the only option for XBOX Live users.
Post by: johannesleung on June 14, 2007, 03:33:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 14, 2007, 06:35:00 AM
And as far as people making the cables in the forums, there isn't really anyone actively doing it right now. However, Talismoon will be manufacturing these cables and selling them on Divineo.com (and other retailers) fairly soon.
Post by: TheIrishLad on June 15, 2007, 06:02:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Jun 14 2007, 07:11 AM)
To answer your first question, yes, using a Component cable and a VGA to RGB adapter with a VGA patched BIOS would work just fine on your monitor.
And as far as people making the cables in the forums, there isn't really anyone actively doing it right now. However, Talismoon will be manufacturing these cables and selling them on Divineo.com (and other retailers) fairly soon.
Talismoon is going to be making VGA cables? That is excellent news! Where'd you hear this, I checked Divineo's news section but nothing showed up relating to it.
I just hope they are $20-30 or less and of good quality.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 18, 2007, 07:03:00 AM
QUOTE(TheIrishLad @ Jun 15 2007, 06:38 PM)
Talismoon is going to be making VGA cables? That is excellent news! Where'd you hear this, I checked Divineo's news section but nothing showed up relating to it.
I just hope they are $20-30 or less and of good quality.
I've actually been in direct communication with Talismoon through e-mail about these cables, this is not an official announcement yet, as they are still developing prototypes. They are going to ship me one of their prototypes and I will be doing some testing with it before they are officially released.
They will be LM1881N-based VGA cables, and AFAIK, they will be straight, clean VGA cables.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 18, 2007, 09:56:00 AM
But if anyone out there is planning on mounting a VGA connector internally in their XBOX, you should definately use the internal sync signals.
@PunMaster: We should really consider doing a full-blown tutorial that covers all aspects of native VGA on the XBOX, especially considering what's available now with my VGA Softmods and VGA Patchers, and your hardware expertise with the wiring side of the VGA mod.
Post by: TheIrishLad on June 18, 2007, 07:20:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Jun 18 2007, 07:39 AM)
I've actually been in direct communication with Talismoon through e-mail about these cables, this is not an official announcement yet, as they are still developing prototypes. They are going to ship me one of their prototypes and I will be doing some testing with it before they are officially released.
They will be LM1881N-based VGA cables, and AFAIK, they will be straight, clean VGA cables.
Being the great contributor you are I trust screenies will follow once you get the prototype
Post by: PunMaster on June 19, 2007, 03:11:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 19, 2007, 11:12:00 PM
QUOTE(TheIrishLad @ Jun 18 2007, 07:56 PM)
Being the great contributor you are I trust screenies will follow once you get the prototype
Assuming Talismoon allows me to do so, yes, you can definately expect some shots of the prototype.
QUOTE(PunMaster @ Jun 19 2007, 03:47 PM)
Here's a screenshot of what my screen looks like:
Your using internal sync signals on this picture, correct? It might be a voltage issue, but it most likely is just interference from the motherboard itself...
Are your H & V signals shielded at all within your XBOX?
Have you tried other monitors with your current sync setup?
Post by: johannesleung on June 21, 2007, 08:58:00 AM
and the only option is to vga bios to 17 lcd.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on June 21, 2007, 09:54:00 AM
QUOTE(johannesleung @ Jun 21 2007, 09:34 AM)
So I never really saw a comparison against the vga signal vs the normal tv and hdtv, could anyone post screenshots of the games running at 480i, 480p, 720p and under vga and under televisions, hehehe Iam not rich so I could never afford to see those things lol is just for the sake of curiosity since if I do this mod I will never go back to my television after I flash my bios. So it came in my mind if it is really worth to do it right now I play at 29 tv under 480i
and the only option is to vga bios to 17 lcd.Well, honestly there is very minimal difference between Component (HDTV) and VGA. VGA is alot sharper, but other than that it is just really nice to be able to use HDTV resolutions with a normal, cheap VGA monitor.
Normal TV however (480i) is horrible. Both VGA and Component are significantly better than normal TV, I would recommend using a VGA monitor over a normal TV anyday.
But, just for reference: (Pictures taken from 360mods.com)
Post by: Maverick-DBZ- on July 10, 2007, 09:18:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on July 10, 2007, 11:01:00 PM
QUOTE(Maverick-DBZ- @ Jul 10 2007, 09:54 PM)
I can't wait to try out the Talismoon VGA cable. How far is it from consumers hands?
I've been told it's about a month and a half away.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on July 11, 2007, 06:54:00 PM
So as long as you remember that when you build the cable, you should be just fine.
NOTE: Don't forget to enable at least the 480p setting in your Microsoft Dashboard before using the PBL, or you will not get a picture.
Post by: johannesleung on July 11, 2007, 09:04:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on July 11, 2007, 09:44:00 PM
QUOTE(johannesleung @ Jul 11 2007, 09:40 PM)
ok got it working. thx for all your effort in doing this great patch
No problem, glad I could help.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on July 28, 2007, 10:50:00 PM
720p and 1080i resolutions though are 100% compatible with my VGA patchers.
NOTE: 480p/720p/1080i games look gorgeous in native VGA.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on July 31, 2007, 12:55:00 PM
I have been given the green light from the manufacturer to start sharing some of the design pictures and prototype pictures for the 'homemade' VGA cables that are currently being finalized and manufactured for public sale. (should be available in 5-6 weeks or so) They will be 100% compatible with ALL of my VGA solutions on the XBOX.
Enjoy!
NOTE: I will have some pictures of the 'official' manufactured prototype tomorrow too. These are just the early rough concept pictures.
NOTE 2: These cables are the LM1881N-based cables, which means they will be compatible with 90% of most VGA monitors!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on July 31, 2007, 04:34:00 PM
However, with that said, I am confident that over 90% of most VGA monitors will work fine with these cables.
Post by: mrtim13x on August 01, 2007, 08:02:00 AM
+
+
what do u think
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 01, 2007, 08:35:00 AM
Make sure you are using a VGA BIOS too though, either by using my VGA patcher or my VGA softmod, because the screen will still be tinted green without one.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 01, 2007, 09:24:00 PM
Also, make sure your projector supports Sync-on-Green, or else this setup won't work.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 01, 2007, 09:59:00 PM
QUOTE(slowass @ Aug 1 2007, 10:20 PM)
Yep its set to Component. Just came to realize that I dont know if my projector can handle Sync-on-Green.
Maybe this is a hint: Just noticed that I had something that might have been the XBMC Dashbord output from the projector but that was when XBMC had gone into "Shading" (or what they call the screensaver effect). Everything was in GREEN!
As soon as I moved the pad everything was gone as it used to be.
How old is your projector?
Could it possibly handle component through the VGA port without my BIOS?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 01, 2007, 11:08:00 PM
If you haven't, then this won't work until you do. You will need to go into your Microsoft Dashboard and enable at least 480p.
Post by: yaywoop on August 26, 2007, 01:02:00 AM
Post by: Foe-hammer on August 27, 2007, 02:26:00 AM
Post by: yaywoop on August 27, 2007, 03:38:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 27, 2007, 07:17:00 AM
QUOTE(Foe-hammer @ Aug 27 2007, 03:02 AM)
Frosty, any update on your xbox vga cable?
I assume you saw the prototypes on the previous page, right?
Other than that, I am just waiting on the final prototype before they go in to production.
I'm wondering though... is there even enough interest anymore to justify it?
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Aug 27 2007, 04:14 AM)
hmm. this has nothing to do with the bios but i am getting pixel-shifting lines running down my screen with my internal sync mod. does anyone have any idea how to fix that. i am sure that it is the sync signals...
Hmm... how noticable are the shifting pixels?
Even on the LM1881N design, you can still see these same shifting pixels... they are just barely noticable.
I would ask PunMaster (page 18 of this thread) as he is one of the only other people I know that actually used the internal sync signals...
Post by: Ebsy on August 27, 2007, 02:07:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Aug 27 2007, 02:53 PM)
I'm wondering though... is there even enough interest anymore to justify it?
FWIW, I'm definitely interested. I'm in the UK and I've been waiting for this Talismoon (?) cable to be released ever since you announced it. I'll buy one as soon as they're available.
Post by: yaywoop on August 28, 2007, 02:35:00 AM
this is from http://www.stevegehl...icle/opamp_html
"The sync separator used is the Genum GS4981 instead of the more commonly available LM1881. The reason for this is the horizontal output. The LM1881 does not produce true horizontal drive, i.e., a horizontal output without vertical sync included. The VGA standard requires this, and some VGA monitors will not sync or set the reference black level properly without true horizontal drive."
if you are going to sell this thing you might want to make sure that it will work with all screens. BTW the GS4981 is a drop in replacement for the lm1881n.
the shifting pixels are not as bad as what PunMaster posted but they are a little annoying. although you don't really notice them when you are immersed in a game of halo 2
i will try making the wires shorter and add some cap's to the power lines
Post by: yaywoop on August 28, 2007, 05:59:00 AM
this is just using my dashboard (UnleashX) at different resolutions
Halo2 (480p) has noticeable line shifting and XBMC at 720p is crystal clear.
i probably won't bother trying to fix it. all the action when playing an actual game makes it not noticeable and xbmc is clear for watching movies and stuff.
one mistake i made with the cable is putting a female plug on the end (a VGA cable cut in two). this means i need an adapter to connect it to a screen with a built in cable (if anyone is making a cable keep this in mind)
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 28, 2007, 07:54:00 AM
Hmm, i'm going to have to test this immediately, as there is still time to make a change to the prototypes...
I'll post my results soon.
NOTE TO ALL: Oh and also, for the record, I am making very little if any personal profit off this project. This is mostly a collaborated effort to provide a cheap solution for those who cannot build this cable on their own. If anyone decides to buy these cables, just know that I only assisted with their design, and I am not actually profiting from this project.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 29, 2007, 11:05:00 AM
We want to keep the price as low as possible, yet also keep the quality of the cable high, so coaxial/optical audio wasn't considered due to the fact that it would raise the price in both production and resale.
But as far as changing the BIOS in your girlfriend's XBOX... that is fairly easy. If you would like, you are more than welcome to PM me and I can build a custom NKPatcher w/VGA output for your softmod.
Post by: yaywoop on August 30, 2007, 03:05:00 PM
anyway its up to you isn't it
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 30, 2007, 04:02:00 PM
I'll let you guys know if I am able to add coaxial 5.1 in a few days.
Post by: yaywoop on August 31, 2007, 02:10:00 AM
and if you are going to have hi-def video, you might as well have the option for digital hi-fi sound.
and the product might appeal to more people if you include basically everything anyone would want
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on August 31, 2007, 11:55:00 PM
How does this look?
This is what the manufacturer said the packaging would look like.
Oh yeah, and they also said it would be easy to implement, and shouldn't raise the price.
I will know for sure in about 2 days from this point...
Post by: g-rasshopper on September 01, 2007, 11:46:00 AM
Just a thought.
Post by: bobbyblaze on September 01, 2007, 12:33:00 PM
Post by: g-rasshopper on September 01, 2007, 01:22:00 PM
FWIW, all of the Dreamcast VGA adapters that I've ever come across have had the connectors on the sides, and I think there are good design reasons for that.
Post by: bobbyblaze on September 01, 2007, 02:17:00 PM
Jeez man, we just got a 5.1 sound connection added and you're still not content because it doesn't aesthetically please you? Some folks is never happy...
Post by: yaywoop on September 02, 2007, 02:35:00 AM
so whats inside it? still an LM1881?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 02, 2007, 02:36:00 PM
I am looking into other, more compatible options, but at the moment it is still LM1881N-based.
Post by: g-rasshopper on September 03, 2007, 11:51:00 AM
The reason I ask is that I understand Linux handles VGA slightly differently to the VGA patched BIOSes. IIRC different video connector pins have to be grounded for the OS to recognise that a VGA signal is required.
Thanks in advance.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 03, 2007, 02:31:00 PM
Linux requires 1+3 mode (unsupported VGA mode) whereas my cable uses 2+3 mode (HDTV) so it won't work...
Linux has very limited support for VGA, especially on Focus/Xcalibur encoders, so this option was not considered.
Post by: w0g on September 04, 2007, 06:16:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 04, 2007, 03:16:00 PM
The 1.6 XBOX is not compatible with my VGA patchers.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 06, 2007, 06:25:00 PM
Myself and xman954 have released the first VGA-Compatible Force480p modchip BIOS, based on the X2 5035 BIOS!!!
Go get it!!! (in the usual places)
Oh, and this release would not have been possible without xman954's help implementing Force480p, much thanks to xman954.
NOTE: For those who dont know what Force480p means, it means that now EVERY SINGLE game and application (PAL/NTSC/JAP) are now 100% VGA-Compatible, including the flubber!
NOTE 2: This only forces 480i games to go into 480p, it does not disable 720p and 1080i, they are still fully supported.
Post by: yaywoop on September 06, 2007, 10:56:00 PM
are you trying to put Neoya out of business?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 06, 2007, 11:06:00 PM
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Sep 6 2007, 11:32 PM)
WOW well done frosty. how long have you been working on that?
are you trying to put Neoya out of business?
I have been working on it for about a year, but Xman954 was really the one who got the Force480p working.
And no, i'm not trying to run Neoya out of business. But, from what i've heard, you can actually build your own VGA cable yourself by the time they ship your X2VGA to you...
Post by: yaywoop on September 06, 2007, 11:15:00 PM
and can you patch a retail bios to have vga to still play on live?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 06, 2007, 11:29:00 PM
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Sep 6 2007, 11:51 PM)
lol. i only want one more feature out of a bios, is there any way of detecting vga so the bios can output vga or component depending on the cable? or switch modes from your dash?
and can you patch a retail bios to have vga to still play on live?
Well, yes and no.
No, I can't make an autodetecting BIOS, because of the shortage of modes on the AVIP...
Yes, you can switch modes from your dash. Just use a PBL version of this BIOS instead of flashing it.
Let me know if you would like to try the PBL version.
Oh also, no I couldn't make a live-safe version, because even the smallest of changes to the BIOS will be noticed by MS, and will result in a ban.
Post by: yaywoop on September 06, 2007, 11:47:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Sep 7 2007, 04:05 PM)
No, I can't make an autodetecting BIOS, because of the shortage of modes on the AVIP...
why did you decide not to use mode 1+3?
maybe you could have it detect when you plug in a normal AV cable at least?
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Sep 7 2007, 04:05 PM)
Yes, you can switch modes from your dash. Just use a PBL version of this BIOS instead of flashing it.
Let me know if you would like to try the PBL version.
sure a PBL version would be cool
but don't worry about it. i dual boot my tsop anyway. i just thought it would be a usefull feature
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Sep 7 2007, 04:05 PM)
Well, yes and no.
Oh also, no I couldn't make a live-safe version, because even the smallest of changes to the BIOS will be noticed by MS, and will result in a ban.
i suspected that. if only we could trick M$...
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 07, 2007, 12:00:00 AM
I'm trying to gather some feedback on the BIOS, as I have very few testers.
Post by: yaywoop on September 07, 2007, 12:01:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 07, 2007, 12:03:00 AM
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Sep 7 2007, 12:23 AM)
why did you decide not to use mode 1+3?
It's probably entirely possible that we could re-write the video code for mode 1+3 to match the HDTV settings, but i'm willing to bet that it would break a lot of games and applications...
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Sep 7 2007, 12:23 AM)
maybe you could have it detect when you plug in a normal AV cable at least?
This is entirely possible. In fact, we might end up doing it, but not until v1.1.
Post by: yaywoop on September 07, 2007, 12:50:00 AM
well i flashed my tsop with the stock 5035 and your vga 5035. as it was flashing it stoped about a quarter from the end which is very scary when you are flashing a tsop...
somehow my xbox still boots. the stock 5035 bios is working but is the vga one supposed to show the flubber?
maybe i mixed something up...
anyway it seems to be working ok. i will test it on some more games when i get time
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 07, 2007, 07:23:00 AM
But even if the flubber doesn't show up, it should still take you to your dashboard and force 480i games into 480p.
P.S. You might want to reflash your TSOP again, because pausing is never a good thing when flashing...
Post by: yaywoop on September 07, 2007, 06:55:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 07, 2007, 09:54:00 PM
Anyway, here's something new... FrostyTheSnowman and Xman954's VGA Boot Disc v1.0!!!
This is a PBL version of the X2 5035 w/VGA & Force480p (my last release) except in boot disc form!
No need to flash anything!!!
Just copy the x2config.ini in the package to your 'E' drive and edit it to point to your dashboard, burn the xISO image in this package to a DVD-R, boot the disc, and BAM! Instant VGA.
This is 100% compatible with all softmods, modchips, and hacked BIOSes to date. (as long as they boot d:\default.xbe first)
You can find this release under the following path in the 'usual places':
\XBOX\Console Based Applications\apps\utilities\FrostyTheSnowman and Xman954 VGA Boot Disc\
Enjoy!
NOTE: This only works with HDTV and Homemade VGA cables (Mode 2+3). (and my cable being manufactured)
Post by: yaywoop on September 08, 2007, 08:28:00 AM
what was wrong with it? are you going to release a proper?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 08, 2007, 01:31:00 PM
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Sep 8 2007, 09:04 AM)
good so it wasn't just my xbox
what was wrong with it? are you going to release a proper?
We are thinking it might have been the patched code in the header of the BIOS, but we not sure.
You can expect a flashable version soon, but i'm going to order a modchip first so that we can properly test it before release. (neither myself nor xman954 have a modchip)
For now though, enjoy the boot disc, it's definitely my personal favorite VGA release thus far.
Post by: yaywoop on September 08, 2007, 05:54:00 PM
probably a good idea to get a programmer as well. i am guessing you will need it
and i made a new vga cable with a male plug on the end. so now it is actually useful. i used a normal xbox cable and wired up a vga cable to the avip plug. vga cables have enough unused wires (for digital data and stuff) to have the sound going through the same cable to a breakout box. it uses internal sync signals as well
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 08, 2007, 06:15:00 PM
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Sep 8 2007, 06:30 PM)
and i made a new vga cable with a male plug on the end. so now it is actually useful. i used a normal xbox cable and wired up a vga cable to the avip plug. vga cables have enough unused wires (for digital data and stuff) to have the sound going through the same cable to a breakout box. it uses internal sync signals as well
Nice cable, it reminds me of my own, except better because you are using the internal sync signals.
I'm too lazy to wire up internal syncs, but I do admit that they are superior.
Have you tried the new disc with your cable? (also, you can copy the files off the disc and make it an application on your hard drive if you like.)
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Sep 8 2007, 06:30 PM)
lol. i can't believe both of you are modding bioses without a chip
probably a good idea to get a programmer as well. i am guessing you will need it
Nah, a Duo X2 should suffice, it has 2 banks.
Post by: yaywoop on September 09, 2007, 03:40:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Sep 9 2007, 10:51 AM)
Nice cable, it reminds me of my own, except better because you are using the internal sync signals.
I'm too lazy to wire up internal syncs, but I do admit that they are superior.
Have you tried the new disc with your cable? (also, you can copy the files off the disc and make it an application on your hard drive if you like.)
Nah, a Duo X2 should suffice, it has 2 banks.
yeah i stole your idea
i would have bought one of yours but i couldn't wait and i am handy with a soldering iron...internal sync signals probably are better, when they work that is. i still haven't bothered fixing the line shifting. but it is hardly noticeable at 480p which is fine for me
and yeah i will give that disk a go soon
and I used to have a duo X2. but i killed it with static or something
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 09, 2007, 02:07:00 PM
I love hand-making these VGA cables, mostly because they are such a pain in the ass that you can't help but be proud of your work when you are done.
Post by: yaywoop on September 10, 2007, 01:40:00 AM
i used hot glue for insulation
i tried your vga disk. it works great. i tried it on "grand theft auto san andreas" which was green and out of sync with the old patch. it works PERFECTLY. i am not sure what other games are progressive, i couldn't find a list. do you know of one?
thanks for the great bios. even if it is only media bootable. still i would be happy using it
Post by: Foe-hammer on September 10, 2007, 06:23:00 PM
Is it possible to add a jumper to disable the sync chip, for when using it on a monitor that supports SOG? It would be nice to have a cable that worked on both seperate H&V and SOG.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 10, 2007, 08:20:00 PM
I can use my LM1881N-based cable on both types of monitors just fine.
Post by: Foe-hammer on September 10, 2007, 11:07:00 PM
Just an idea, of which i'd use when i bought the vga cable.
Post by: yaywoop on September 13, 2007, 01:42:00 AM
QUOTE
colours were wrong blues were green, greens were blue etc
did you fix that with the disk bios?
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on September 15, 2007, 06:24:00 PM
QUOTE(bobbyblaze @ Sep 14 2007, 07:21 PM)
Hi Frosty!
Just a quickie
Do you think that this lead of yours will be available by xmas as I've just bought a wii for the missus and have to plan on how I'm going to connect everything come the big day?Cheers,
Rob
From what I have been told, this cable should be ready to purchase around mid-December.
Post by: netfraggel on September 22, 2007, 07:24:00 AM
RGBCV ---> RGBHV
CVH (csync,vsync,hsync TTL-Level)
---
000
010
101
110
h-sync has to be high if c-sync high and v-sync low
Now, if we use 7400 (four NAND) we may get h-sync (I dont know if the 7400 is fast enough).
The circuit:
- From LM1881 put c-sync and v-sync to the first NAND.
- The output of the first NAND and c-sync to the second NAND.
- Put the output of the second NAND to the third NAND (to invert the signal).
- The second NAND and the third NAND as intverter then build a logical AND.
See:
http://www.tkk.fi/Misc/Electronics/faq/vga2rgb/scart.html
at the end of the site for the circuit.
The LM1881 and 7400 are easy to get in many countries by private purchase.
This may be the solution to get hsync and vsync without the internal sync signals of the XBOX.
I am not sure but I think some very old Sun and Apple monitors need the c-sync instead of h-sync.
Excuse my poor english.
Post by: yaywoop on September 25, 2007, 07:32:00 PM
it would probably be a good adition to the frosty vga cable, or a mod for people who need it.
i am sure there will be room inside the box
the only place i can get a lm1881 is over the net. and i cbf, so i will stick with internal signals
Post by: patch6- on October 03, 2007, 05:02:00 PM
Punmaster: I appreciate the explanation of the "video level corrector circuit", and am trying to build one, but the "break the three "dischargeā traces and wire them instead to the three negative (inverting) inputs of the op-amps" direction doesn't show up on the schematic you posted (linking pins 1 to 16, 3 to 4 and 6 to 7, I'm assuming), though I've tried both and neither seem to work (the schematic first, then the rerouting of discharge traces). The fault could be due to my human error, but some clarification would be great.
Post by: yaywoop on October 03, 2007, 06:33:00 PM
so you have the evaluation board?
I didn't realize punmaster achieved this. using that circuit and the internal vga mod its possible to get *completely* standard vga out of the xbox
I wonder if the MAX4383 could be used instead of the LMH6739
unfortunately punmaster hasn't logged in for a month or so
hey frosty. did punmaster ever complete his ultimate tutorial? I was thinking about writing one but i quickly gave up (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)
This post has been edited by yaywoop: Oct 4 2007, 01:35 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 03, 2007, 06:20:00 PM
QUOTE(yaywoop @ Oct 3 2007, 06:33 PM)
hey frosty. did punmaster ever complete his ultimate tutorial? I was thinking about writing one but i quickly gave up
I honestly can't remember.
If you look back in this thread you will find out more about it, but I don't think he ever officially released his diagram...
Man, native VGA sure is a pain in the ass on the original XBOX...
Post by: yaywoop on October 03, 2007, 07:17:00 PM
its annoying. I did that internal sync mod and a few days ago I got a LCD that supports SOG.
yeah i found the post where he explains it
I think its pretty good that we can get any VGA output on a console that wasn't supposed to support it with such little hardware
This post has been edited by yaywoop: Oct 4 2007, 02:21 AM
Post by: patch6- on October 03, 2007, 11:02:00 PM
Has anyone reading this made a working version of the circuit in http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?sho...p;#entry4019291 ?
Post by: yaywoop on October 04, 2007, 02:55:00 AM
I have not really done anything much with analog circuits before but tell me what your problem is and I might be able to help you
Post by: yaywoop on October 04, 2007, 03:18:00 AM
however I did notice the white tint on both of my CRT screens. so I will attempt the RGB level corrector anyway. it looks really easy.
I was going to make a transcoder with these max4383's but I can't find the resistors for it. maybe I will just make a level corrector and VGA switch all in one instead
Post by: patch6 on October 09, 2007, 10:20:00 PM
When the discharge traces are wired to the respective inverting negative inputs, the screen blanks out as well upon testing, with or without power.
The power seems to be fine, measuring at 5 volts steady.
The vga ports are also wired correctly, and work when the circuit is bypassed.
I might try replacing the chip.
Post by: johannesleung on October 11, 2007, 10:33:00 AM
I think everytime I post something here I will share for you and you work on vga bios frosty, its well deserved and awesome, Iam trying to use your last vga bios with force 480p on pbl on my xbox harddrive, I downloaded the one from your last release with the boot disc and extracted the bios with quix but I don't know why I cant tunr the bios into 256k size, it alwasy give me an error about not being able to extract on xbtool. Some help would be really welcome since I play plenty of emulators and often change my video game from tv (friends house) and lcd (my house) so I want to keep using pbl from my hd to switch into vga mode and play my games.
Post by: yaywoop on February 04, 2020, 08:02:00 AM
you are not supposed to spit this particular X2 bios into 256 anyway.
Post by: johannesleung on February 04, 2020, 08:27:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 12, 2007, 07:04:00 PM
Optionally, you an also try another utility called 'Simple xISO' to extract the files from the ISO.
NOTE: Whatever you do, DO NOT flash this PBL BIOS to any modchip.
Post by: yaywoop on October 12, 2007, 11:14:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 13, 2007, 12:05:00 AM
Here's my reasoning:
1. The X2 5035 is a full-featured BIOS, compatible with all XBOX versions that support VGA (1.0-1.5)
2. All modchips (not just Xecuter ones, unlike the X3 BIOSes) with a 512k or 1MB bank can use it (including v1.0-1.1 TSOPs)
3. It has an easy-to-use configuration file (all other BIOSes need to be modified using either EVtool or XBtool)
4. Xecuter BIOSes seem to be the most popular overall
So, the X2 5035 not only covers all the most important features in a BIOS, but it was also the easiest to modify and hack. (in my experience, the Xecuter BIOSes are the most friendly to hacks) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)
Although, the EvolutionX team makes a great BIOS too. I may be releasing an Evox M8+ version with my most recent VGA hacks pretty soon.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Oct 13 2007, 07:20 AM
Post by: bobbyblaze on October 13, 2007, 06:15:00 PM
Post by: smoke_screen_uk on October 17, 2007, 09:22:00 AM
not been about for the last month or so due to being very busy on my electronics degree.
Was just reading over a few of the recent posts here and noticed this one...
QUOTE(netfraggel @ Sep 22 2007, 02:24 PM)
Punmaster has right that LM1881 has not standard h-sync signal but v-sync ist standard. I looked on the datasheet of the LM1881. On Pin1 the LM1881 output is c-sync (composite sync). Some displays cannot extract h-sync from the c-sync signal. But we can extract h-sync from v-sync and c-sync with a logic circuit.
NetFraggle went on to explain how it could be possible to create an H-Sync signal using the V-Sync, C-Sync and some NAND gates.
This solution may work ok, though I feel there is a better solution.
The LMH1980 and LMH1981, successors to the LM1881.
I think I've mentioned these chips before but this time I thought I'd add the Pinouts this time so that people could see what I was talking about.
LMH1980 on www.national.com
LMH1980 Auto-Detecting SD/HD/PC Video Sync Separator Datasheet
Application Note 1618 LMH1980 Evaluation Board Instruction Manual
Application Note 1681 Design Migration from the LM1881 to the LMH1980
LMH1981 on www.national.com
LMH1981 Multi-Format Video Sync Separator Datasheet
Application Note 1599 LMH1981 Evaluation Board Instruction Manual
As can be seen from these two chips, they both provide H-Sync out. They also do not encounter the same problems as the LM1881 with Rset, which needs to be chosen in relation to the video format being used.
On the downside, unfortunately as these chips are both new devices, they come in very small outlines (chip sizes) so they are not easily used by hobbiests. However, there are evaluation boards available on the national semiconductor site which can often be ordered as free samples.
I will be ordering all of the above components soon and be trying them out at university (because I can use the electronics workshops there). I will be sure to post back with my findings.
Keep up the great work everyone, hopefully we'll see all the minor issues ironed out in the not too distant future.
Post by: bobbyblaze on October 20, 2007, 10:43:00 AM
Just wanted to say a big thank you for all your hard work. Plugged the xbox into my CRT projector with the component lead running 1080i RGsB and the little black box blew me away. Really stunning and the output puts my 360 to shame. Screw MS for not giving us 1080i VGA on the 360
Totally impressed at how mint the xbox looks. Cheers Mate!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 20, 2007, 05:41:00 PM
QUOTE(bobbyblaze @ Oct 20 2007, 11:19 AM)
Hey Frosty!
Just wanted to say a big thank you for all your hard work. Plugged the xbox into my CRT projector with the component lead running 1080i RGsB and the little black box blew me away. Really stunning and the output puts my 360 to shame. Screw MS for not giving us 1080i VGA on the 360 Totally impressed at how mint the xbox looks.
Cheers Mate!
Just wanted to say a big thank you for all your hard work. Plugged the xbox into my CRT projector with the component lead running 1080i RGsB and the little black box blew me away. Really stunning and the output puts my 360 to shame. Screw MS for not giving us 1080i VGA on the 360
Totally impressed at how mint the xbox looks. Cheers Mate!
Hell yeah dude, i'm always happy to hear that people enjoy my work. You guys are the very reason why i've created so many VGA utilities.
I honestly think that Microsoft really hurt the original XBOX by not allowing it to produce VGA, because being able to play original XBOX games in native VGA really is a beautiful thing.
To answer your earlier question though, I do not currently have an update on the cable... I haven't heard from my contact over in China in over a month. At this point i'm not sure what the future holds for my cable, but I promise you guys will be the first to know.
Post by: patch6 on October 26, 2007, 05:37:00 PM
(IMG:http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/222/videoweakenernw1.png)
Post by: yaywoop on October 27, 2007, 08:32:00 AM
the only thing about voltage dividers is that they change under load. as long as the load is always 75 ohms, it should work. you might want to check that your screen does actually have a 75ohm termination, or account for any difference by changing resistor b.
to me it looks like its worth a try. someone correct me if we are missing something...
for things like this it would be handy to have an oscilloscope
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on October 28, 2007, 02:59:00 PM
I'll get back to you guys in a week or so when the parts arrive.
Post by: patch6 on October 31, 2007, 02:27:00 PM
(IMG:http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/4122/0253background9ra1.gif)
It also causes the grey bar on the left of this image to turn bright white:
(IMG:http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/2792/clipboard03vz4.png)
And finally, the grey scale on the bottom of this picture loses 4 shades of grey to it:
(IMG:http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/6030/coreltstcardlw0.jpg)
I wonder if hooking a second monitor up to the output with a Y-splitter will weaken the voltage enough to remove the clipping.
Going to try an attenuator with a transfer function of .458, requiring a 66 ohm resistor and two 200 ohm ones for each channel (not 100% exact, +-2 ohms off), before trying that. An .8755 one didn't make a noticable difference, and neither did a .6-ish one (lost the calculations, but it was something like 33 ohms to 330).
Post by: w0g on November 12, 2007, 05:14:00 AM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on November 25, 2007, 02:18:00 AM
It's strictly a non-profit thing for me, so i'm not sure how the marketing/production side is really going...
For now though, if anyone out there wants a custom hand-made one, just let me know. (hand made ones are obviously not non-profit though)
NOTE: This is a new cable design, which includes a 1+3/2+3 mode toggle switch. (for Linux/Games)
Here's a picture of my current design: (sorry about the quality, it's a camera phone)
(IMG:http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n243/sk8er83329/vga_cable_with_mode_switch.jpg)
NOTE: I will only be building these cables by hand for people for a short period of time. (because they really are a pain in the ass to build)
First come, first serve.
This post has been edited by FrostyTheSnowman: Nov 25 2007, 10:20 AM
Post by: bobbyblaze on January 02, 2008, 08:09:00 PM
Lead looks sweet and I'd like to get one but any chance of co-ax digital out for audio (pleeeeeeeeeease (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) )?
Post by: Foe-hammer on January 07, 2008, 07:26:00 AM
Post by: RayTwoOneThree on February 06, 2008, 03:36:00 PM
Post by: redpacman on February 25, 2008, 03:44:00 AM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Sep 1 2007, 02:31 PM)
How does this look?
This is what the manufacturer said the packaging would look like.
Oh yeah, and they also said it would be easy to implement, and shouldn't raise the price.
I will know for sure in about 2 days from this point...
...hi frosty!
hats off to your devotion!
xbox will be 100% with the perfection of vga support
...i'm from china, and desperately looking for such a vga cable!
...i have been trying to contact you through pm, but no luck...
...maybe it's that we are too far away from each other so you won't make me one
can you please tell me how to contact your cables' manufacturer? is it in GuangDong province or in other regions?
maybe they could send me a sample and i could help test it too!
...and i definitely will buy one with the final design! so you have got at least one foreign customer already
ps: there's a forum of xbox fans here in China, i cannot post the url but
people there are discussing about your realses too!
i'm sure some of them will want a ready-made xbox 1 vga cable too.
maybe when your cable is done designing, i can write a test report on your cable and see what people there thinks.
pps: should you sell them in China, and need any advise on chinese version of user's guide book, i'd be very happy to help, no fees
thanks again and please keep us posted on the new progesses!
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on March 03, 2008, 11:53:00 PM
The 'Frozen Cable' is officially out and available for sale through Divneo!
http://www.divineo.c...v-us/zz-xb-fcbl
NOTE: Neither myself nor Xman954 are profiting from these cables in any way. I do endorse them as being compatible with our BIOS, but we are not personally profiting from any sales.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on March 05, 2008, 10:16:00 PM
This cable has varying results with different monitors, the ones that are usually 100% 480p/720p/1080i compatible are the Sony Trinitrons, Viewsonics (any model), and Acers.
LCDs can also be a little picky, but most are at least 480p/720p compatible.
If your current monitor does not work or has a green tint at certain resolutions chances are that it's not fixable due to hardware limitations on the original XBOX.
Try another monitor, i'm sure your cable and BIOS are working properly, your monitor probably just doesn't like 720p or 1080i.
Post by: tirlibibi on March 06, 2008, 03:35:00 PM
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on March 06, 2008, 11:02:00 PM
Try your Conexant machine.
Post by: FrostyTheSnowman on March 07, 2008, 12:22:00 AM
http://www.thegametr...able-p-572.html
http://www.consolesh...o...ebase&bid=3
NOTE: Neither myself nor Xman954 are affiliated with either of these websites, we are just being helpful.
Post by: RayTwoOneThree on March 15, 2008, 11:11:00 AM
Post by: Matt Devo on March 26, 2008, 01:45:00 PM
QUOTE(FrostyTheSnowman @ Mar 7 2008, 01:38 AM)
Overall, Focus machines work great, but Conexant machines seem to be the most compatible with most monitors.
Same result here - with both a homemade VGA and a frozen cable, the conexant machine works perfectly, bus the focus one has a green tinge after the inital bios loading screen
Post by: wwwyzzerdd on August 18, 2008, 12:29:00 AM
Post by: jeylee on November 18, 2009, 08:05:00 AM
Post by: Nextelhalo on December 03, 2009, 01:47:00 PM