I have an x2.6 chip installed with the Xapt3r. Modded it a long time ago, and I don't remember what I did. Had a lot of fun with it. Then I got the 360 and the original Xbox pretty much collected dust. I pulled it out to play a few times, but nothing much. Recently, I tried playing it again and I get a FRAG on both banks and a 05 error with the chip off (unlocked HDD). The chip seems to be fine - all the LEDs turn on. I'm not sure what's wrong. I never soldered the D0 wire, but it stays in its hole fairly well; enough to work up to this point at least.
I want to get an external programmer (made a topic in BST - no success so far...cheapest I see online is $20 or so. I'd rather buy or borrow from someone for cheaper). But anyway, is this the recommended course of action? Any other ideas/suggestions?
Also, let's say I do reflash the chip or even get a new chip - would I lose everything I've set up in the HDD? It's a 500GB with UnleashX on bootup, games, emulators, etc.