First you'll need to get iXtreme LT, which'll attempt to return your console to a playable state. The catch is that you need to know your CPU code and that the instructions rely on a lot of different (free) tools.

Has anyone used this or another workaround to get their Xbox playing again? [DailyTech via Crunchgear]

The guides walk you through the process of converting your battery-sucking gadgets to use AC power. Both guides require rolling up your sleeves, ripping the gadget apart, and doing some soldering—if using a soldering iron is new to you, we've got a beginner's guide to help you out.

The first guide covers in detail how to use a switch, some wire, and an old cell phone charger to convert a baby swing to use AC power, and the second guide is a more broad, general overview of how to modify devices—but isn't quite as detailed. If you've got any personal experience in modifying gadgets to use AC power instead of batteries, let us know about it in the comments.

For more clever modifications, check out how to turn an old web cam into a spy camera, or use tinfoil to boost your remote control's range.