Microsoft is now using a 65nm chip they call Falcon. It is according to the story 50% cheaper for Microsoft to produce and requires less power to run. All resulting is decreasing the likelihood of the dreaded RRoD.

Some new Xbox 360 units are shipping with an upgraded processor, code-named "Falcon."

If you've got an Xbox 360 on your Christmas list this year, here's how to make sure you get yours.

The new Falcon CPU is a 65nm chip and will apparently run cooler. The older chipset, codenamed "Zephyr," is a 90nm processor and, as you probably know, has caused the Red Circle of Death since Xbox 360 was first released.

Games won't run any faster with the new CPUs, but according to reports Microsoft has switched to the new model processor to make the Xbox 360 more reliable and less prone to overheating. Another reason for the switch probably has to do with cost, it's been reported that it's costing Microsoft 50 percent less to manufacture the new processor.

How to spot your new Falcon CPU based Xbox 360

Just check the barcode sticker on the side of the Xbox 360 box. If you've got a Halo 3 edition console and it was built on Aug. 24, 2007, by team "FDOU" in lot 734, it's got the chip.

On any Xbox 360 you can look for a change in the power-supply specifications on the same sticker. If you see 175W, it's got the newer power supply used for the Falcon, 65nm processor.

SS4Gogeta via gizmorepublic.com »