Walkmart has unplugged all models of the Xbox 360 that it had on display because the devices interfered with in story systems.

The gaming console transmits a signal over the 2.4GHz band (it isn't clear what part of the device is doint that) – the same band used by Walmarts hand scanners for the store's inventory system.

The 2.4GHz band provides free unlicensed wireless spectrum that is used by a plethora of devices, ranging from cordless phones to the Wifi networking technology. Microwaves also cause interference in this band.

Microsoft has since created a software patch fixing the problem, which has already been distributed to the Walmart stores.

Tags: Microsoft, walmart, xbox 360

25 Oct 2005