Microsoft's Xbox now accounts for 37 percent of the game console market, and the new Xbox 360 is due out for the 2005 holiday season, months before Sony's PlayStation 3. When gamers take the new Xbox home, however, they'll soon discover that it's more than a just a game machine-it's a full-fledged home media hub with more power than most PCs. This friendly guide shows how to maximize both gaming and non-gaming features of this amazing machine.

• Topics covered include hooking up Xbox 360, taking advantage of HDTV and Dolby capabilities, using built-in digital video recording and wireless functions, storing media files, playing music, and displaying photos
• Shows how to have even more fun by taking an Xbox online for massively multiplayer gaming, instant messaging, and more
• Discusses the social potential of the Xbox, which people can use to make new friends, join groups and teams, and even throw fantastic parties
• Includes tips for securing the Xbox from online threats

Microsoft's Xbox now accounts for 37 percent of the game console market, and the new Xbox 360 is due out for the 2005 holiday season, months before Sony's PlayStation 3. When gamers take the new Xbox home, however, they'll soon discover that it's more than a just a game machine-it's a full-fledged home media hub with more power than most PCs. This friendly guide shows how to maximize both gaming and non-gaming features of this amazing machine.

• Topics covered include hooking up Xbox 360, taking advantage of HDTV and Dolby capabilities, using built-in digital video recording and wireless functions, storing media files, playing music, and displaying photos
• Shows how to have even more fun by taking an Xbox online for massively multiplayer gaming, instant messaging, and more
• Discusses the social potential of the Xbox, which people can use to make new friends, join groups and teams, and even throw fantastic parties
• Includes tips for securing the Xbox from online threats