Keep the unit in a horizontal position, and provide plenty of ventilation. Maintaining proper air circulation around the unit is critical in preventing the unit from over-heating.I was unfortunate enough to get a faulty launch model, and when my XBOX 360 displayed the "red lights of death," as my sons call them, I received a new unit from XBOX. Over-heating is a major problem, and Microsoft has now warranted all 360's for 3 years, so if your unit does over-heat they will replace it free of charge.