Microsoft has responded to an experts' evaluation of the Xbox 360's heat problems, in which a major design flaw is claimed.

The evaluation, carried out by Japanese news source Nikkei, had a thermo design expert analyze the 360's heat radiation system. The test found that a flaw in Xbox 360's design means that it could achieve temperatures of over 100 degrees in the summer (that's hot enough to make a cup of tea).

The expert pointed out that, "the heat sink on the graphics LSI is so small, I wonder if it can really cool down the board." Apparently, Microsoft downsized the graphics LSI heat sink so that the DVD drive could be placed on top.

Worryingly, as well as a launch console Nikkei also tested a machine repaired in May 2007, and the heat sink was still the same downsized unit.

Responding to the report, a Microsoft spokesperson told us, "There is no single root cause or systemic issue with any of the Xbox 360 consoles."

With such a complex consumer electronic product that contains more than 1700 different components and 500 million transistors, there are obviously many things that can malfunction at any given time. The vast majority of customers who own Xbox 360 consoles continue to have a terrific experience. "As Microsoft didn't participate in the test, we cannot comment on any findings."

It'll be interesting to see if PS3s then, which also have plenty of transistors and technical innards, start breaking down in the same quantity as Xbox 360s. In the meantime, we're keeping an extra fan on our consoles until the autumn arrives.

Above: I'm sorry Dave. I'm afraid I can't comment

August 6, 2007