There’s nothing more frustrating than dropping several hundred dollars on a hot new gaming system, only to get home and find out you need an extra cable for it to work. Fortunately, setting up any of the seventh generation consoles is pretty easy, and with a little research you’ll know exactly what you need to start gaming right away.
Microsoft Xbox 360
The Xbox 360 comes with a power adaptor and, depending on which model you buy, different types of audio/video cables. The Xbox 360 core system comes only with a composite A/V cable, allowing connection to a standard definition TV and/or home theatre stereo system. The Xbox 360 Arcade includes an HD component cable, while the Elite version of the console includes both an HD component cable and an HDMI cable. These cables allow connection to high definition TVs. If you have a high definition TV, you should learn which types of inputs it accepts so you can be sure to get all the right cables.
When setting up the Xbox 360, you can either set it horizontally or vertically – whichever is most convenient. You should be sure to give the console space to breathe, as it can get very hot. As a final note, if you want to be able to connect to Microsoft’s online gaming service, Xbox Live, you’ll need a network cable. These are sold separately anywhere that you can find computer supplies, and the cable plugs right into the back of your Xbox 360.
Playstation 3
The Playstation 3 only includes a power cable and standard composite cables that allow connection to standard definition TVs. If you want to experience the PS3 in high definition, you’ll have to purchase the appropriate cables to interface with your television.
Like the Xbox 360, the PS3 can be set either horizontally or vertically – and as with the Xbox 360, you should give the system open space to avoid overheating. Also as above, you’ll need to purchase a network cable separately in order to connect to the Playstation Network and start gaming online.
Nintendo Wii
The Wii is set up very similarly to the other seventh generation consoles, but with a few key differences. For one, the Wii does not support high definition television, and includes only standard RCA cables for use with standard definition TVs. The Wii includes a stand to set it up vertically, though it could theoretically lay it horizontally as well. Unlike the other two consoles, you don’t have to connect it to the Internet via cable – the Wii has wireless capabilities. Finally, the Wii includes one extra step – you must connect and properly position the Wii’s sensor bar either on top of or in front of your television.
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