Just ordered a new MS28 which i want to use in my PC for backups.

Before I go ahead and break it, I just want to confirm the steps.

From reading up I should just be able to use JF and run SammyUnlock. Should I first backup the firmware on the MS28 in case things go horribly wrong?

I don't need to write the ixtreme firmware to the drive do I? I see there's also a activate.iso - I don't need to do anything with this eaier do it?

Anything else I'm missing, or am I on the wrong track completely?

If your just using it for ripping just get the 0800 only version, It doesnt require a key or half open tray to work.

Thanks. Yip - only for rips. I'll use the 0800 version.

No need to back-up the firmware as it does not contain a key for your xbox. Flash your drive with ixtreme 1.6 0800. If you flash it with that you won't require the activate.iso file.
Here is a schmatic for the power if you want http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?showtopic=651212

Awesome. Already had the power adapter page bookmarked Thanks. Going to build it!