Xecuter 3 is a fourth-generation modchip for the Microsoft Xbox game console designed by Team Xecuter.
One of the more feature-rich chips, it contains 2 megabytes of flash memory, and when used with the X3 BIOS (not included), allows for remarkably easy set up of a modded Xbox and installation of a larger hard drive. Initially flashing the chip with a BIOS, which usually requires the use of an external programmer connected to a PC, is simplified by the network flash feature built into the included Linux-based FlashBIOS. When the Xbox is connected to a LAN and the feature is activated, it runs an HTTP server which allows the user to simply point a web browser to the Xbox's IP address and provide a BIOS image file.
Furthermore, with some chips, an auto-install CD is usually needed to format the hard drive to FATX and partition it, as well as install a dashboard. This could be complicated by the fact that early Xbox models with Thomson DVD drives are often not able to read non-Xbox DVDs very well. The Xecuter 3 BIOS can format and partition the hard drive, and also contains an FTP server, allowing access to the drive without having a dashboard installed, making the process of installing a dashboard or other software such as Xbox Media Center or Linux much simpler. The chip also has an onboard 256k backup ROM containing the FlashBIOS BIOS should a problem occur within the main banks of the flash.
There are actually two versions of the chip, the original Xecuter 3, and the Xecuter 3 CE. Functionally they are identical, the only difference being in the PCB design.
Xecuter 3 (original) photo Xecuter 3 CE photo
Many modders who want to use their mods online or play legally backed up copies of games online choose to use one of two popular programs which allow a user to play with other modders over the internet. These programs, known as XLink Kai and XBConnect, are free unlike Xbox Live.