Microsoft Xbox Series S 512GB SSD All-Digital Gaming Console User Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The Microsoft Xbox Series S is an all-digital gaming console designed for a seamless gaming experience. It features a custom Zen 2 CPU with 8 cores at 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz with SMT) and a custom RDNA 2 GPU with 4 TFLOPS and 20 CUs at 1.565 GHz. This console is built for fast load times and responsive gameplay.

Equipped with 10GB GDDR6 memory and a 512GB Custom NVME SSD, the Xbox Series S targets a gaming resolution of 1440p with performance up to 120 FPS. It supports advanced HDMI features such as Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, and AMD FreeSync for smooth visuals.

Sound capabilities include L-PCM up to 7.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, and Dolby TrueHD with Atmos for immersive audio. Connectivity options include 1 HDMI 2.1 port, 3 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 802.11ac dual-band wireless, and 802.3 10/100/1000 Ethernet. The console measures 10.8" x 5.9" x 2.6" and weighs 4.25 lbs.

2. What's in the Box

Upon unboxing your Microsoft Xbox Series S, you will find the following components:

• Xbox Series S 512GB console
• 1 Xbox Wireless Controller
• High Speed HDMI cable
• Ultra High Speed WEPGPY USB Extension Cable

Image: The Xbox Series S console and its accompanying wireless controller are shown within their retail packaging, indicating the contents of the box.

3. Setup

To set up your Xbox Series S console, follow these steps:

1. Placement: Position your console in a well-ventilated area. The console can be placed horizontally or vertically. Ensure adequate space around the console, especially near the large black fan on top (when horizontal) or on the side (when vertical), to allow for proper heat dissipation.
2. Connect HDMI Cable: Connect one end of the High Speed HDMI cable to the HDMI OUT port on the back of your Xbox Series S console and the other end to an HDMI input on your TV or monitor.
3. Connect Power Cable: Plug the power cable into the power port on the back of the console and then into a wall outlet.
4. Connect Controller: Insert the included AA batteries into the Xbox Wireless Controller. Press and hold the Xbox button on the controller to turn it on. The controller should automatically pair with the console. If not, press the pairing button on the console (located on the front, next to the USB port) and then the pairing button on the controller (located on the top edge, near the USB-C port).
5. Initial Setup: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial setup, including connecting to your Wi-Fi network and signing in with your Microsoft account.

Image: The rear of the Xbox Series S console displays its various ports, including Ethernet, USB, HDMI OUT, storage expansion slot, and power input, for connecting peripherals and power.

Image: A close-up of the Xbox Wireless Controller, highlighting its buttons, joysticks, and the central Xbox button used for power and menu access.

4. Operating Instructions

Powering On/Off

Press the Xbox button on the console or the Xbox button on your controller to power on the console. To turn off, hold the Xbox button on the controller and select 'Turn console off' from the power options.

Navigating the Home Menu

Use the D-pad or left joystick on your controller to navigate through the home menu. The home screen displays recently played games, apps, and access to the Microsoft Store and Xbox Game Pass.

Quick Resume Feature

The Quick Resume feature allows you to seamlessly switch between multiple games and resume instantly from where you left off. To use Quick Resume, simply switch to another game or app, and the console will automatically suspend your current game. You can access suspended games from the 'My games & apps' section under 'Quick Resume'.

Online Gaming and Chat

The Xbox Series S supports online multiplayer gaming and voice chat. Ensure your console is connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. You can join parties and chat with friends through the Xbox Guide (press the Xbox button on your controller).

Image: The Xbox Series S console is shown alongside its white wireless controller, ready for use. This illustrates the compact design of the console.

5. Performance and Graphics

The Xbox Series S delivers next-generation performance with its custom CPU and GPU. It targets a gaming resolution of 1440p and can achieve up to 120 frames per second (FPS) for a fluid gaming experience. The console also supports upscaling to 4K resolution on compatible displays.

Key video capabilities include Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), HDMI Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and AMD FreeSync, which work together to minimize input lag, eliminate screen tearing, and ensure smooth, responsive gameplay.

The integrated Custom NVME SSD significantly reduces load times, allowing you to jump into games faster than previous generations.

6. Storage and Game Pass

Internal Storage

The Xbox Series S comes with a 512GB Custom NVME SSD. This all-digital console requires games to be downloaded or streamed, making efficient storage management important.

Expandable Storage

For additional storage, the console supports a 1TB Seagate Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S (sold separately), which matches the internal storage performance. You can also connect external USB 3.1 HDDs (sold separately) for storing Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games.

Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service that provides access to a large library of games, including new titles on day one, Xbox Game Studios titles, and a collection of EA Play games. This service is highly recommended for an all-digital console to maximize your gaming options.

7. Maintenance

Console Placement and Airflow

Proper placement is crucial for maintaining optimal console performance and preventing overheating. The Xbox Series S has a large black fan grille on one side (when horizontal) or on the top (when vertical) that expels hot air. Ensure this area is unobstructed and has at least 2 feet of clear space for adequate airflow.

While the console is designed to be quiet, it can generate heat, especially during extended gaming sessions. The console features an automatic shut-off mechanism if it detects overheating to protect its components. Avoid placing the console in enclosed cabinets or areas with poor ventilation.

Image: A side view of the Xbox Series S console, showing the ventilation grilles along the side, which are important for maintaining proper airflow and preventing overheating.

Image: A top-down view of the Xbox Series S console, highlighting the large circular black fan grille, which is a primary exhaust point for heat.

8. Specifications

CPU:

8X Cores @ 3.6 GHz (3.4 GHz w/SMT) Custom Zen 2 CPU

GPU:

4 TFLOPS, 20 CUs @1.565 GHz Custom RDNA 2 GPU

Memory:

10GB GDDR6 128 bit-wide bus (8GB @ 224 GB/s, 2GB @ 56 GB/s)

Internal Storage:

512GB Custom NVME SSD

I/O Throughput:

2.4 GB/s (Raw), 4.8 GB/s (Compressed)

Gaming Resolution:

1440p

Performance Target:

Up to 120 FPS

HDMI Features:

Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync

Sound Capabilities:

L-PCM up to 7.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, Dolby TrueHD with Atmos

Ports:

1 x HDMI 2.1 port, 3 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, Ethernet (802.3 10/100/1000)

Wireless:

802.11ac dual band, Dedicated dual band Xbox Wireless radio

Dimensions (LxWxH):

10.8" x 5.9" x 2.6"

Weight:

4.25 lbs

9. Troubleshooting

Overheating

If your console unexpectedly shuts down, it may be due to overheating. Ensure the console is placed in a well-ventilated area with clear space around all vents. Allow the console to cool down completely before restarting.

Controller Connectivity Issues

If your wireless controller disconnects or fails to pair, ensure the batteries are charged or replaced. Press the pairing button on both the console and the controller to re-establish the connection. If issues persist, try connecting the controller directly to the console using a USB-C cable.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your console or visit the official Microsoft Xbox support website. Extended protection plans are also available for purchase separately.

• 2-Year Protection Plan
• 3-Year Protection Plan
• Complete Protect: One plan covers all eligible past and future purchases

11. Official Product Videos