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  • THE ULTIMATE PSP GUIDE

IMP: All the steps which I have mentioned in this guide are only for PSP 1k or PSP 2k (with mobo below TA-088v3) and not to be tried on any other PSP 

However Section 6 is dedicated for UNHACKABLES. So those who have them please visit this section.


INDEX

Section 1. Glossary
Section 2. MMS and Pandora battery
Section 3. Unbrick your PSP
Section 4. Downgrade your PSP
Section 5: Time Machine
Section 6: Update your PSP
Section 7: Hellcats Recovery Flasher
Section 8: CFW for unhackables
Section 9: FAQ + Cool Stuff






Section 1: GLOSSARY OF VARIOUS TERMS USED IN MODDING








Firmware : Firmware is the operating system of the PSP, similar to what your computer runs (eg. Windows, Mac, etc.). Updates are released every now and then that may improve functions of the PSP, add PSX compatibility or it may be an attempt by Sony to fix exploits.

CFW : Custom Firmware. Allows the PSP to perform extra functions. It lets you run homebrew (unsigned code) and PSX/UMD backups from the memory stick.

OFW : Official Firmware released by sony.

Kernel (1.50/3.XX/4.XX/6.XX) : The kernel is sort of like the firmware and what it runs on. Think of it as Windows XP running on NT kernel. (Look it up at To view the link you have to Register if you're confused. Some hombrew is dependant on the kernel.

DCv3/4/5/6/7/8 - : DC or Des Cem means Despertar del Cementerio and is the software created by Dark~AleX that allows PSPs to be downgraded or unbricked.

Magic Memory Stick. Simply a memory stick formatted with DC software to allow service mode on PSP. Usually a PRO Duo 256mb-4gb.

Service Mode : This menu accessed with MMS/Pandora allows you to install CFW/OFW or unbrick the PSP.

Pandora battery/Jig-kick battery. Allows the PSP to boot into service mode when an MMS is inserted.

Time Machine : Released by Dark~AleX, it allows your PSP to run custom firmwares from the memory stick and run previous versions (eg 1.50). Pandora is required for this. Runs on custom IPL so it would work even if the flash and NAND IPL is destroyed.

Fatmsmod : A hack that allows the PSP to access the memory stick faster.

ISO/CSO/DAX/etc..
These are types of UMD images. ISO is the usual uncompressed image of a UMD game or movie. Many other types can be created from this such as CSO, the compressed version. These can be played from the memory stick with CFW.

POPS
The PSX emulation on the PSP. CFW lets you play your own PSX games with the "popsloader".

EBOOT
Applications and games designed for the PSP (even PSX games) will be an EBOOT. The file extension is ".PBP" - equivalent to ".EXE" for the PC.

PRX Plugin
An addon for the PSP with CFW to unlock more features. For example, the plugin Hold+ allows the PSP to be underclocked with the screen/backlight off while playing music.

NAND
The NAND is made up of three things. IPL , idStorage and the internal flash (flash0/1/2/3). When you make a NAND dump, you are backing up these things. If you brick badly, you can restore the NAND and the PSP will return to the state it was in when you backed up.

IPL
Initial Program Load. The start up process of the PSP. Decrypts and loads the firmware.
Similar to how a PC starts up.

idStorage
The idStorage is what gives your PSP the MAC address, region code, etc.. What makes the PSP work.

lflash
The internal flash. Made up of flash0, flash1, flash2 and flash3.

flash0 contains the operating firmware of the PSP

flash1 contains the registry and all user settings

flash2 contains DRM information that allow games purchased from the Playstation store to function

flash3 contains the 1seg TV program (only used in Japan currently)



Section 2. MMS AND PANDORA


Magic Memory Stick:- It is Simply a memory stick formatted with DC software to allow service mode on PSP 1k or fully hackable 2k.It is Usually a PRO Duo 256mb-4gb.

Creation of MMS

What you require?

1. A memory stick of good brand(Sony or Sandisk will do) of size 256mb - 4gb. I would prefer to reserve a memory stick of 512 mb only for mms
2.A computer or PSP

Although there are many ways to create a mms , i shall cover only 2 ways. One is by using Rains mms maker and other is by using PSP Tool

Creation of MMS by using Rains mms maker

1.Download the Rains UltraLite MMS maker from here Rains UltraLite MMS Maker for 5.00 M33-4, PSP Hacks - PSP Slim Hacks
2.download the 5.00 pbp file from here 500.PBP - 4shared.com - online file sharing and storage - download

Place the official firmware update file named EBOOT.PBP or 500.PBP in the same folder as the program OR you will be asked for its location during make MMS.

3.Run the application and connect your psp or memory stick to the computer
Choose the option to format memory stick
4.Select the drive letter of your psp memory stick
5.Finally select option to MAKE MMS

if you are getting errors in this step, you probably have to get a new card

Using PSP Tool for MMS creation

1.download PSP Tool from here PSP Tool v1.00 - Homebrew Applications - PSP - QuickJump Downloads
2.download the 5.00 pbp file from here 500.PBP - 4shared.com - online file sharing and storage - download
3.copy the 5.00 pbp file to the root of memory stick and the PSP Tool app goes into the GAME folder on your ms
4.Run the app, under Memory stick options choose to create Magic Memory stick and then choose the option to install DC v8
5.after completion of mms creation, when the option comes to turn battery into pandora, choose no
6.then it will ask you to hold key to activate mms with pandora
6.Hold down L trigger till it says completed
7.Your mms is now ready

in both the above cases your mms is made to flash install 5.00 m33.

You can also make your mms to install other cfw like 5.50 GEN D or 6.60 ME using DCv8

To flash install 5.50 GEN D3

1.download the GEN D3 installer from here http://www.mediafire.com/?zzhcmknzznt5ngj
2.place the UPDATE folder into the GAME folder and the 5.50 pbp into the root of the ms
3.run the installer
4.choose the option "Install XGEN PANDORA V5"
5.your mms will now flash install 5.50 GEN D3 instead of 5.00 m33

To flash install 6.39 ME from mms

1.download the 6.39 ofw and 6.39 ME v2 installer from here PSP Custom Firmware 6.39 ME v2 Released *Updated* | PSP-Hacks: Hack your PlayStation Portable
2.Download the OFW 6.39 update, extract and rename EBOOT.PBP to 639.PBP.Copy 639.PBP to PSP/GAME/UPDATE on your memory stick.Download and extract the CFW 6.39 ME v1 package.Copy UPDATE/EBOOT.PBP to PSP/GAME/UPDATE
3.insert mms, hold L trigger , insert pandora and choose to "TEST m33"
4.your psp will reboot and now emulate 5.00 m33
5.Go to GAME in XMB and now run 6.39 ME updater 

this method works even on a bricked psp.

To flash install 6.60 ME from mms

1.download the 6.60 MEv1 bundle from here 6.60ME v1 Bundle - Downloads - Sony PSP MODS and Hacks Forums
2.as in the above steps choose to emulate m33 and run the 6.60 ME updater 

How to autoboot your memory stick using a Pandora Battery

here's what it means. You have a pandora battery and as you know only if you insert a mms or a memory stick with an ipl it enters service mode else it just show blank screen with green light
now you can use your pandora battery just like a normal battery to autoboot from memory stick.Great isn't it? so no more swapping batteries

1.first download PSP Tool and insert your ms into the psp
2.go to "memory stick options" click "inject IPL to Memory Stick" Then Inject z3ros0ul Single IPL (Sleep Fix).
3.shutdown your psp and remove ms.
4.insert your pandora battery now.
5.it will power on with a blank screen 
6.now insert the memory stick with the injected ipl and your psp should autoboot.
it also works reverse ie. first insert the ms with ipl and then the pandora battery.

First part of this video explains what is said above


How to repair a corrupt idstorage 

Use this method when you get update errors while upgrading from old DA firmwares, or issues with WLAN or UMD drives

1. insert your mms , hold L trigger, insert pb
2. in the DCv8 menu, choose NAND Operations
3. In that choose IDStorage tools
4. select the region of your psp
5. select the option to get real/random MAC and select yes to create new idstorage

REPAIRING IDSTORAGE

PANDORA BATTERY 

It Allows the PSP to boot into service mode when an MMS is inserted.

There are 2 ways to create a Pandora Battery

1.Hardmodding a Pandora Battery: it involves removing 5th pin or cutting a strip to make the battery to enter service mode

Refer here on how to Hardmod a phat or slim battery.

http://www.pspmod.com/forums/psp-har...-pictures.html

IMP: a hardmod phat pandora wont work on slim model psp 

2.Softmodding a Pandora Battery :- Unlike hardmodding, which requires you to tamper with battery to make it jig-kick, softmodding a battery involves changing the battery EEPROM serial to 0xFFFFFFFF which causes the console to boot into service-mode

There are many ways to softmod a battery into pandora battery , however this is supported only by limited psp.

The psps which can softmod a pb are
1. All psp phats(1k models)
2.Psp slim with TA-085v1 motherboard( only this model can softmod among all 2k)

Ways to Softmod a Pandora Battery

1.XMBattery Plugin

1. download the plugin from here XMBattery Plugin v0.1 - Homebrew Applications - PSP - QuickJump Downloads
2.follow instructions in readme and enable the plugin in your recovery menu and reboot
3.now under SYSTEM SETTINGS go to BATTERY MODE and now you can softmod

IMP: XMBattery is incompatible with 6.39 ME or 6.60 ME. Whenever i tried anabling the plugin i used to get crashes

2.Ultimate VSH Menu

1.download it from here Ultimate VSH Menu v2.00, PSP Hacks - PSP Slim Hacks
2. enable it in your recovery menu
3.you will now have option to Convert battery: pandora, autoboot or normal

btw the vsh.txt command must be ms0:/seplugins/vshmenu.prx (no 1 must be there after prx unlike the readme)

this is pointless for those who have the latest cfw(i'm talking about ME and 5.50 GEN D) which has options for softmodding built in recovery menu.

3. Using your cfw for Softmodding

1.the option to softmod from cfw is built into the following cfw versions
5.50 GEN D
6.39 ME
6.60 ME

1.go to Recovery menu on your psp
2.under advanced configuration>battery options , you will see options to make battery into normal, jig-kick or autoboot.

To convert a softmod pandora battery back into normal one 
remove battery,connect the psp to AC power , go back to the place where you made the pandora(eg: in recovery menu) and insert the battery to be made normal and choose option to convert to NORMAL BATTERY

To convert a SLIM PANDORA HARDMODDED BATTERY back to normal

1.open up the battery
2. go to the place where you have made the small cut
3.using a pencil slowly rub the area of the cut with pencil lead
4.your battery should be normal now.

Once the pandora battery is done

1.insert the mms
2.hold whatever trigger required and insert the pandora battery to boot into DC menu

SECTION 3 -UNBRICK YOUR PSP

1. Unbricking a 1k or a hackable 2k

1.you will require a memory stick in the range 256 mb - 4 gb and a pandora battery.

2.head to the first part of section 2 to create an mms.

3.once done, get a softmodded/hardmodded pandora battery.

4.insert the mms, hold L trigger and then insert the pandora battery.

5.now set the psp down on some surface so that the battery doesn't come off, if its loose.

your psp will now boot into service mode with the DC menu

6.choose the first option, 'install 5.00 m33-4'

7.wait for it to be done.

8.your psp is now unbricked

NOTE :you can even install 5.00 ofw from the mms.

this tutorial is applicable if you have modded your ms with DC v8.(don't worry, if you did what i posted in the first part of section 2- ignore this)

UNBRICK UN-HACKABLE 2k (TA-088 v3 mobo)

Files you Require

•Extracted Files Original - all of the original image with the extracted files - essentially a set of service cards.

•MSID 512MB Original - this dump MSPro ID origialnoy service card, taken by MSID Dumper

•Original Dump MS - full service card image format IMG. You can look through WinHex.

•Write IPL to MS - utility service record IPL-loader in 16th sector card. IPL itself is already there: multiloader_ipl.bin

MAKING MAGIC SERVICE CARD

1.Need MS PRO DUO card neoriginal 512 MB , 2 GB or 4 GB.

2.Original SONY is not suitable, because Nanda has chips and they do not have specifications (datasheets) and programmers.

3.Download " MSID Dumper ", insert the memory card into your PSP and run the program. See on the screen the "Serial Number" and MSProID your card and write, although the dump area MSID still remain at the root of the memory card and you can then see the hex-editor. That you can come in handy when you search the data in the dump of the chip.

4.Thin body with a scalpel raspolovinivaem card in half, not ponostyu, but only the back and slightly more than half the edges.

5.Then, using tweezers pull out from the housing fee, it is not glued, but just lying in the grooves.

6.From the boards fed to a memory chip (nand), which is the largest 48 feet. A small square near the memory controller, it can not touch.

7.Insert the chip into programming with sockets TSOP-48 for this chip:

8.Keep in mind that with the mind maps are the same, but inside can be different Nanda, such as Hynix or Samsung. Therefore, under your chip is then searched the programmer. See the list of supported chips:Hynix, as far as I know, all have the same standard of conclusions on the datasheet TSOP-48, so if the letters or numbers differ from the list of supported models, it does not matter.

9.Chip is inserted in socket programming is very simple, where she has designed clothes pegs, push down on the socket, the contacts move away, put mikruha and socket is released, the contacts are pressed against the legs of the chip, so that a newbie is like two fingers on the asphalt.

10.Further, the programmer is connected to a computer with pre-installed software that came with the programmer. The program specifies a range of pages you want to dump and dump of the memory.

11.Immediately dumps the entire 2 GB of memory for very long, and not necessary. I must say that we need a service area where the registered MS ID card that serves as a key dekriptovki anbrikera files, is at the end of the chip in the second bank. This area is located on the chips of 2GB Hynix HY27UH08AG5M or analogs, as It consists of two banks of memory to 1 GB. Therefore it is necessary to dump only the last few pages of the 2nd bank. The programmer himself will tell what page ends with Nanda. You need only specify the range (and up). In my case this page with MSID is within the range 07FFC4-07FFC5

12.Next, open the dump file in a Hex editor, type in the search, what to look for, namely a piece of hex code MSID: 204D5350534E5930 , that means a literal expression _MSPSNY0, that is, it is half the 16-digit key, MSID, which all the cards MS PRO DUO memory is the same.

13.If not found, then dump the next few pages from the end, until we find the desired one. Having learned the address, now we remove only the following page, where the MSID - this is exactly 512h4 16 x 4 = 2048 64 = 2112 bytes . Chip specification, you can read and write at least this size, that is, by page, but you can just more of a multipage.

14.In changing the hex 16-digit ID of the card on the ID of the card which was removed set of the original service card. Required ID code can be found in the folder " MSID 512MB Original "in the file ID.txt .
fact that each service is encrypted with a unique set of MSID that card on which he had written, and accordingly it is decrypted and the files at work. It's just like you do password-protected archive WinRAR - What's the password install, uncompress the same password.

15.After replacing the ID, do not forget to save the file. Then sewn back this page dump at the same address from which to dump.

16.Solder in the chip in place. There needs careful not to overheat the chip and the solder legs closed, because feet are small and very close to each other. Control the solder through a magnifying glass, at a minimum there will need an 8-fold, professionals in the workshops is done through a microscope. Although pro soldering with closed eyes, but then you need experience, a good flux, which itself draws the solder to the legs, braiding, to shoot the excess solder, etc.

17.Format a memory card manufactured by the PSP.

18.From the folder " Write IPL to MS "run" install_psp_ms_multi_loader_ipl.cmd "

19.Only then do connect PSP to your computer.

20.In the console can see how determined flash drive and click on the English " Y "

21.We see a message " Write MS BOOT CODE "- then everything is fine. If you get the message " Canceled "- means the wrong letter pressed or not in the layout.
If you get the message " Check Free reserved sector: to Small Sectors reserved "-

22.Mount a Hex editor stick, like a physical drive and make sure that the 16th sector, there is known to us IPL.

23.From the folder " Extracted Files Original "copy the contents of the stick and go to flash briknutye TA-088v3 =)

Disclaimer:

i have not performed this and so i don't know how it's gonna work or provide you assistance beyond this info.

this info on creating a service card for ta 88v3 was provided to me by one of my friends and i just copy pasted it from the link.

regarding the files required, i have them but it appears they are stolen property, so i'm not giving links. However if you can convince me that you are capable of doing this, then i'll think about it.

a normal 2k hardmodded pandora should suffice for unbricking, the headache is creating the service card.

it is a must you have a solid engineering background to perform this.(not meant for 12 year old kiddos)

also make a note that the nand programmer software can only run on Windows XP and is not compatible with windows vista/7



Recover your 3k from a semi-brick.

What is a semi-brick?

semi-brick is a state where you can't boot your 3k into the XMB, however you can access recovery menu on booting up with R trigger held.

As you might have guessed, this is possible only if you have installed the 3k with 6.20 PRO-B permanent patch.

So if you have a semi-bricked 3k , that had the perma patch installed, just follow these steps to unbrick it.

1.remove battery, re-insert and power up holding R trigger.

2.if the PRO recovery menu shows up, you're in luck else you have a full-brick.

3.in the recovery menu, search for this option 'Hide cfw files' and set it to DISABLED

4.Choose 1st option -Toggle USB (make sure USB device set to ms)

5.make sure you have a 'vshorig.prx' file there (if you haven't tampered with the cfw files it should be there and you can skip step 3 and 5)

6.download this file from the link below
Download Semi-BrickRecovery.exe for free on uploading.com

7.copy that file in this location ms0:/psp/game

8.now run the Semi-BrickRecovery.exe from this folder.

9.Done!

note: the ofw that will be flashed here will be 6.35. 

if you want to flash any other ofw, just goto the UPDATE folder and replace the 635.pbp with the new ofw.

make sure to change that eboot.pbp to ofw.pbp
10.if you have any plugins in the seplugin folder delete all of them now.

11.exit usb mode and choose to reset device.

12.power on again holding R trigger.

13.run the third option 'Run /PSP/GAME/RECOVERY/EBOOT.PBP'

14.press X to install ofw.

15.the 6.35 (or any other ofw you chose) updater should now come up.

your 3k is now un-bricked.

[ note: you can also do this method to unbrick psp 3k, if your psp has 6.20 TN D/E installed with the perma patch.]

should you want to go back to 6.20 PRO-B again just goto my guide section 3, and use the 6.xx downgrader.


Section 4 .Downgrade your PSP

Though, no one would probably need to downgrade with the latest cfw , i''ve just included a list of psp models and the firmwares to which it is possible to downgrade for those who wish to experiment.

PSP 100X with 01G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 1.50 and above Possible

PSP 200X with TA88-V2 and lower:
- Downgrading to OFW 2.60 and above Possible

PSP 200X with TA88-V3:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Possible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.20 Possible
- Downgrading to OFW 6.39 Possible

PSP 300X with 03G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.20 Possible
- Downgrading to OFW 6.39 Possible

PSP 300X with 04G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.20 Possible
- Downgrading to OFW 6.39 Possible

PSP GO with 05G Module:
- Downgrading to OFW 4.20 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 4.21 Impossible
- Downgrading to OFW 5.00 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.01 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.02 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.03 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 5.51 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.00 Impossible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.10 Possible.
- Downgrading to OFW 6.20 Possible
- Downgrading to OFW 6.39 Possible

List of DC(despertar del Cementerio) versions and the original firmware(ofw) they flash

1. 1.50 Update flasher(only for 1k)- ofw 1.50 to 2.71
2. DCv3 - ofw 3.71
3. DCv4- ofw 3.80
4. DCv5 - ofw 3.90
5. DCv7 - ofw 4.01
6. DCv8 - ofw 5.00

Here is a way to easily downgrade your psp to any firmware to which your psp supports

1.Download the 6.60 Downgrader v4.1 from here 6.60 Downgrader Released, PSP Hacks - PSP Slim Hacks
2.Copy the 6.xx Downgrader V4.1 from the archive folder to ms0:/ PSP/GAME (ef0- for psp go)
3.copy the update of the OFW to want ( EBOOT.PBP ) to PSP/GAME/UPDATE ( with capitals ).
4.now run the downgrader and follow instructions 
5.make sure to have battery level above 80%
6.after the downgrade is complete if you get a blue screen in diff. languages - just press O
7.if you get a blank screen however just press the following combination SELECT+START+SQUARE + TRIANGLE

6.xx Downgrader v4 Tested --Thanks to Faustnero



The list of firmware to which you can safely downgrade to based on your PSP model using this downgrader.

1. 1g(psp phat) -Any
2. 2g (psp slim with motherboard below TA-088v3) -Above 3.60 
3. 2g (psp slim with motheboard TA-088v3) -Above 4.01
4. 3g -Above 4.20
5. 4g -Above 5.70
6. 5g -Above 5.70
7. 7g/9g -Above 6.30

Downgrading a PSP 3k with 09g module to 6.20 ofw.

Download the downgrader from here Multiupload.com - upload your files to multiple file hosting sites!

•Add both “Downgrade v5″ and “UPDATE” folder with 6.20 ofw update to GAME folder
•Run the Downgrader from XMB
•Follow the instructions on the screen.
•After the install a blue screen will appear. Press O to restore your settings.(If a white screen splashes instead of the blue one turn off your PSP completely and turn it on again then as fast as you can hit the following combination of buttons : Select+Start+Square+Triangle )

SECTION 5: TIME MACHINE

Time Machine is a way on which you can emulate 1.5 ofw on your hackable 1k/2k if you badly want to run those 1.5 homebrew.

Q. Why 1.5 ofw ?

It was the first ofw to be released by Sony (excluding ofw 1.00 for japanese 1k). It had no security checks, and any 1.5 homebrew can be run on it without cfw.

Installing Time Machine

For Hackable 1k

Files you require

1.Time Machine
http://dl.qj.net/psp/hacks-exploits/time-machine-v01.html
2.1.5 eboot file
http://pspslimhacks.com/psp-firmware/official-firmware-updates/

Hardware you Require

1.Magic stick(ie. aldready modded with DC)
2.Pandora battery

Installation

Toggle usb mode and do this
(you need cfw on the psp to do this. I flash installed 5.00 m33-4 and did this from there but it should work on 6.60 ME)
or having an mms, choose the option emulate 5.00 m33 from DC and perform this from there

1.Once you've got those files, first copy the Time Machine folder into the mms in the following location ms0:/psp/game

2.copy the 150.pbp file into the root of the mms

3.exit usb mode.

4. now goto GAME and run Time Machine

5.choose to install 1.50, wait for it to be done

6.toggle usb, navigate to the following location ms0:/TM/config.txt

7.in the config.txt file, you should find a line like this
L= "/TM/DC8/ipl.bin";

8.below that line add this line:
UP= "/TM/150/ipl.bin";

[note: if you add this line instead of previous line
NOTHING= "/TM/150/ipl.bin";
then every time you insert mms and pandora with no key held it should goto 1.5 emulation]

9.save the file and now exit usb mode.
10. Done!

power off psp

now insert the mms and holding the UP key on the D-Pad, insert the pandora battery.
you should now boot into the 1.5 ofw. set all options and proceed to run the homebrew.

copy the 1.5 homebrew to GAME folder and not GAME 150 folder and it should run.

For hackable 2k

don't follow the method mentioned for 1k

here to run 1.5 ofw emulation, you should use the option to install mixed 1.50/3.40 kernel from Time Machine

Here's how you do it

Files required
1.1.50 eboot(rename to 150.pbp)
http://pspslimhacks.com/psp-firmware/official-firmware-updates/
2.3.40 eboot(rename to 340.pbp)
http://www.4shared.com/file/o9iRhtvX/340.html
3.3.60.psar
http://www.4shared.com/file/lvN47Fy-/360.html
4.Time Machine(same link as above)

Hardware you Require

1.Magic stick(ie. aldready modded with DC)
2.Pandora battery

steps

toggle usb (again 2k must be on cfw to run Time Machine)

1.copy the 150.pbp, 340.pbp and 360.psar to the root of mms

2.copy the Time Machine folder into the mms in the following location ms0:/psp/game

3.exit usb mode

4.run Time Machine from GAME

5.choose the option to install 1.50 with 3.40 tm moudles

6.once finished, toggle usb again

7.toggle usb, navigate to the following location ms0:/TM/config.txt

8.in the config.txt file, you should find a line like this
L= "/TM/DC8/ipl.bin";

9.below that line add this line:
UP= "/TM/150_340/ipl.bin";

[note: if you add this line instead of previous line
NOTHING= "/TM/150_340/ipl.bin";
then every time you insert mms and pandora with no key held it should goto 1.5 emulation]

10.save and exit usb

Thanks to dankgame for this excellent video tutorial



power off psp

now insert the mms and holding the UP key on the D-Pad, insert the pandora battery.
you should now boot into the 1.5 emulation. set all options and proceed to run the homebrew.

Section 6. Update your PSP

To update to 6.60 ME from any ofw

First you need to update to 6.60 OFW and the install the CFW. To update you can either do it yourself or you can do network update on the psp.

Heres how you do it. If your already on 6.60 OFW skip these steps. Also skip if you are going to do system update from the XMB. Just go ahead and update either way to 
6.60 OFW.

1. Download this :6.60 OFW - 6.Downloads - Sony PSP MODS and Hacks Forums and extract it and have it handy.
2. Now plug the psp into the usb on your computer and open the PSP folder and then the GAME folder and create a folder named UPDATE and put the 660 eboot in there.
3. Now exit out of the USB and go to the psp and go to GAME and run that update. That should put you on 6.60 OFW.

Now to install the CFW.

When you go back to the game folder on the psp delete the UPDATE folder I told you to make.

1. Download this:6.60ME-1.6 (OFW Version) - Downloads - Sony PSP MODS and Hacks Forums and extract that.
2. Place the "me_installer" into your "GAME" folder on your memory stick .
3. Then go run that on the psp like you did the update and you should be good to go.

1. For those with old DA firmware (SE/OE systems)

1. using Hellcats Recovery Flasher update to 5.00 m33(steps mentioned in section 5)
2. download the 6.60 ME v1 bundle from here
http://www.pspmod.com/forums/downloa...do=file&id=208
extract the contents and copy the UPDATE folder from the archive to the GAME folder on your memory card.
Then goto XMB and run the update.
After that network update to the latest version of ME cfw.

2. For those with 3.71 m33 to 5.00 m33 firmware

first update to higher cfw like 5.00 m33 via hellcats (for those with cfw below 5.00 m33) 
then

download the 6.60 ME v1 bundle from here
http://www.pspmod.com/forums/downloads.php?do=file&id=208
extract the contents and copy the UPDATE folder from the archive to the GAME folder on your memory card.
Then goto XMB and run the update.
After that network update to the latest version of ME cfw.

Also you can just run the 6.60 ofw update and install 6.60 ME as mentioned in the first part of section 4.

3. For those with 5.50 GEN D firmware 

You need to perform GEN BYPASS to update firmware
There are 2 ways to do this 

1st Method:

for those who do not have the D installer anymore download it from here http://www.mediafire.com/?zzhcmknzznt5ngj

once it's installed, exit usb mode and go to your games, run it and choose the 2nd option to install 5.50 ofw
once it's complete, reboot and discard this updater.

2nd Method:

>access vsh menu by pressing SELECT
>set "USB DEVICE = memory stick" to USB DEVICE = flash 0"
>plug in your psp, search for the folder "etc", open it
>you'll see a "version.txt", open it. 
>you'll see a number "X.XX" right beside the word "release" at the very top(if you're upgrading, the default numbers would be set to "9.90". change it to "5.50" or something lower than 6.60. save it. unplug.
>set USB DEVICE back to "memory stick". plug in again.
now reboot your psp, and the memory stick should be accessible again in USB mode

[special thanks to Faustnero for the 2nd method]

after the bypass 

in case of method 1: you need to update to 6.60 ofw and then install 6.60 ME-1.3 via the ofw version
6.60 OFW - Downloads - Sony PSP MODS and Hacks Forums
6.60ME-1.3 (OFW Version) - Downloads - Sony PSP MODS and Hacks Forums

incase of method 2: just copy the 6.60 MEv1 bundle to the update folder and run it

Upgrading a 09g PSP after downgrading to 6.20 ofw.(thanks to dankgame for the mention)

Download the “TA-095 (9g) physical upgrader” from here http://pspslimhacks.com/9g-upgrader-released/

•Download OFW 6.35/6.39/6.60/6.20 ( a single EBOOT.PBP file).
•Place the OFW in PSP/GAME/UPDATE
•Extract the Upgrader folder to PSP/GAME.
•Run the program and follow onscreen instructions

Section 7: Hellcats Recovery Flasher

Hellcats Recovery Flasher is probably the only way to upgrade/downgrade to cfw easily without a pandora battery and a magic memory stick.
It also lets you recover from a semi-brick.

Files Required for Hellcat Recovery Flasher

Hellcats 1.65 Recovery Flasher v1.65, PSP Hacks - PSP Slim Hacks
5.00 pbp http://uploading.com/files/6X0E1YMQ/
Hellcats GEN D3 installer pack Install 5.50-GEN-D3 with Recovery Flasher (FW-Pack) *Updated, PSP Hacks - PSP Slim Hacks
5.50 pbp http://psp.dashhacks.com/downloads/550-firmware-update

Flashing a fresh 1.5 ofw to your psp 1k only using hellcats

1. install hellcats as mentioned below according to your psp
2. download the 1.5 eboot from here 150.PBP - PSP, Official, Firmware, 1.50
3. rename the eboot.pbp to 150.pbp and copy to the root of memory stick.
4. run hellcats now
5. select the option to "Install fresh ofw 1.50"

Installing cfw 5.00 m33 via hellcats

Works on cfw versions from 3.71 m33 to 6.60 ME

1.extract the "HELLCATS" archive and copy only the RECOVERY folder to the GAME folder on your mem card
2.copy the 5.00 pbp file to the recovery folder
3.now run it from XMB and select the option "To install cfw of above selected" which should be 5.00 m33-6
4.finally select "reset all defaults" and then it will flash your psp

2. For systems with 1.5 ofw 

1.extract the Hellcats archive
2.For 1.5 ofw systems, open the 1.5 firmware folder
copy the 2 sub-folders "%__SCE__rflash" and" __SCE__rflash" to your GAME folder
copy and paste the 500.pbp file into the root of your memory stick

For any of the SE/OE systems and 3.51 m33

copy the same 2 folders mentioned above and copy them into your GAME150 folder not GAME folder
copy and paste the 500.pbp file into the root of your memory stick

Now for GEN D3 installation

1. install hellcats on your psp according to your psp firmware as mentioned in the above steps.
2. extract the hellcats D3 pack
3. copy the required RFP file, for 1000's or 2000's in the root of the mem card

also copy the 5.50 pbp from above link to the root of your ms
4. Run hellcats
5. In the first option, where you can select the (C)FW version to be installed,
press "X" until it reads "load from external FW pack", then select the option to "install cfw of above selected"
and finallt the option to reset all defaults
6. it will flash your psp now with D3.

To recover from a semi-brick using Hellcats

Case 1: If you have aldready installed hellcats on your psp

1.Holding R trigger boot the psp into Recovery Menu
2.Select the 3rd option "Run program at PSP>GAME>RECOVERY>EBOOT.PBP"
3.choose which firmware you want to flash and wait for it to be done

case 2: If hellcats not aldready installed on your psp

1.holding R trigger , boot the psp into Recovery Menu
2.select option to Toggle USB (USB device must be set to memory stick)
3.copy hellcats to your psp according to which firmware you want as mentioned above
4. exit usb
5.now Select the 3rd option "Run program at PSP>GAME>RECOVERY>EBOOT.PBP"
6.choose which firmware you want to flash and wait for it to be done

there are also various other options available in Hellcat 

1.To make NAND dump
2.To softmod battery into Pandora

HELLCATS VIDEO TUTORIAL

Section 8 :Installing cfw on Unhackables

This section is solely dedicated for those who own unhackable psps.
By unhackable, i mean those psp's which dont work on pandora and mms. 

Which PSP models are unhackable? 

All those who have PSP 3000 and PSP GO, your PSP is currently unhackable.
If you want to install cfw on this psp, follow the steps below.

For those with PSP 2000, matters become more complex.
You have to first determine whether your PSP 2k has the unhackable motherboard-TA-088v3

Though there are various ways, i recommend you to go to this thread if you cant determine whether your 2k is hackable or not.
http://www.pspmod.com/forums/psp-dis...-hackable.html
Once you have determined it, you are ready to proceed.

Nature of cfw for unhackables.

Most cfw for unhackables are temporary, meaning you need to run an exploit(launcher) everytime you shutdown your psp, or if your psp gets stuck.

CFW for unhackables

Though there are many cfw versions for unhackables, I shall cover only 3 versions

1. 6.20 PRO-B9
2. 6.39 LME-9.7
3. 6.60 LME-1.6

6.20 PRO-B9

This is one of the best cfw for unhackables.

Reason being it has a permanent patch which works for some unhackables, so no need to run the Fast Recovery exploit everytime.

Download it from here
620PRO-B9.rar - procfw - 6.20 PRO-B9 - X-Generation Aftermarket Firmware for Playstation Portable

Installing 6.20 PRO-B9
1.Make sure you are on 6.20 ofw else update to it
PSP Firmware 6.20 Update | PSP-Hacks: Hack your PlayStation Portable
2.Extract the 6.20 PRO-B9 folder.
3.Copy the 620PRO_Permanent , Fast Recovery and PROUPDATE folder to the game folder in your PSP Memory card
4.Now run the PROUPDATE installer from XMB and press X to install.
5.Once its finished, you have to check if you can apply the Permanent patch.

Currently its supported for all models upto psp with 05g module.

Well most people might tell you to download PSP Module Checker to check it.But here is a shortcut.
1. Make sure you're on 6.20 PRO-B9 , else run the recovery to be on it.
2.Choose to hide MAC in recovery menu
3.In system settings , goto system information.
4.In MAC address section - it should appear HIDDEN and adjacent to that is your module version.

Once you have done that , if your psp is compatible with the permanent patch, run it.
Press O and then X to install the permanent patch.
Now there is no need of running the Fast Recovery everytime.

If your psp is not compatible with the permanent patch--DONT APPLY IT.
Use the Recovery every time you shutdown the psp to be back on cfw.

6.39 LME-9.7

1.Download it from here:6.39LME-1.7 - Downloads - PSPMOD.com - PSP Forum, Hack PSP, PSV Hacks, PS Vita Hack, PSVita
2.Make sure you are on 6.39 ofw else update to it
6.39 OFW - Downloads - PSPMOD.com - PSP Forum, Hack PSP, PSV Hacks, PS Vita Hack, PSVita
3..Extract the 6.39 LME folder
4.Copy the INSTALLER and LAUNCHER to the game folder in your PSP Memory card. or just merge the PSP folder in the archive with that of your mem card.
Run the Installer from XMB
5.Finally run the Launcher

there is no permanent patch for 6.39 LME cfw made by neur0n.
If the cfw goes by accident, run the Launcher to be back on cfw.

6.60 LME 1.6

1.Download it from here:6.60LME-1.6 - Downloads - PSPMOD.com - PSP Forum, Hack PSP, PSV Hacks, PS Vita Hack, PSVita
2.Make sure you are on 6.60 ofw else update to it
http://www.pspmod.com/forums/downloads.php?do=file&id=212
3..Extract the 6.60 LME folder
4.Copy the INSTALLER and LAUNCHER to the game folder in your PSP Memory card. or just merge the PSP folder in the archive with that of your mem card
4.Run the Installer from XMB
5.Finally run the Launcher

NOTE: For PSP GO download the ofw update mentioned for GO from here and then follow instructions above to update
PSP Official Firmware - Downloads - Sony PSP MODS and Hacks Forums

UNBRICKING THE UNHACKABLES

You need to be very careful with what you do with the unhackables, since a brick will result in a paper-weight.

There is currently no way to unbrick a full bricked PSP 3k or PSP GO except to replace the mobo or send it to Sony if its under warranty.

However if you are on 6.20 PRO-B permanent patch, and you get a semi-brick, your psp 3k/GO can be unbricked.

SECTION 9-- FAQ + COOL STUFF

1. DADA ERROR

REASON: Dark Alex has implemented a block in his older cfw's (i guess upto 3.80 m33), which prevents you from updating to any official firmware by Sony. Also you can't update to the latest cfw since his update servers are down.

FIX: update to the last m33 cfw via Hellcats. now just normally run the update to which cfw/ofw you want to install.

2. CONFIGURATION ERROR

ERROR MESSAGE : The system configuration of this PSP system does not appear to be correct. THe update cannot be completed. Contact technical support of assistance.(DRNFFFFFFCD)

REASON : your psp has probably been downgraded using the old downgraders and then updated to some DA firmware. Hence when you update to a recent ofw/cfw you get this error 

FIX: Run an idstorage fix via DCv7/8 or use Key Cleaner to repair the corrupt keys of idstorage. 

3. Unsupported firmware version detected Pls power off psp?

REASON: most people seem to get this error when they have irshell installed on the psp and when they update to newer cfw which is incompatible with irshell
FIX: remove the memory stick and power on the psp. you should boot up normally. now delete the irshell on the memory stick and pop it back.

4.After installing cfw , you get a blank screen 

Before you rush to conclude you have a brick, it might be some rogue plugin which might be causing it.

Remove your memory stick and try booting the psp. If it boots up now, then find out which plugin is incompatible and disable it.Else it must be a brick.

5. ISO files appear as corrupt in GAME section of XMB

most likely you have copied it to the GAME folder on the psp memory stick, while in reality you have to create an ISO folder in the root of your memory stick, and copy the iso's there.

5.PSX games don't work properly

Sometimes the newer firmwares do not support some PS1 games that can be used on older ones so if you have some problems with some PS1 games you need to get a POPS LOADER for your cfw version.
Hold R trigger while pressing X to choose which firmware to emulate

6.Some of your 1.5 apps don't work on the later cfw

Go to Recovery Menu and try changing the GAME folder to 1.5 Kernel.if it doesn't work and you are very desperate to run 1.5 apps, then you need to install TIME MACHINE on your psp to emulate 1.5 ofw and then run it.

7. NETWORK UPDATE ERROR 

suppose you are trying to update to latest version of ME cfw, via network update and you get an error "NO NEED TO UPDATE"

goto Recovery Menu and check if the option to enable custom update is ENABLED or not. If not Enable it and now check 
8. UPDATE 1.5 OFW TO THE LATEST CFW/OFW

if you get errors or black screen while updating 1.5 ofw , then just use hellcats and update to 5.00 m33, then run the cfw or ofw update to get the problem solved

TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN A SEMI-BRICK AND A FULL BRICK

Power on your psp, and if you get a blank screen with the green power light on it's a brick.
Now, try holding the R trigger and boot up the psp.

If the Recovery Menu appears you have a semi-brick from which you can recover via Hellcats

Else you have a full brick and you need a pb+mms to repair your psp. 

TRIPLE BOOT INTO 6.60 ofw , 6.60 PRO-B9, and 6.60 ME (only for hackables)
1. first update to 6.60 ofw.
2. then install 6.60 PRO-B9 but don't apply the CIPL flasher
3. now run the 6.60 ME-1.5 update. 

by default you will boot up into 6.60 ME 1.5
Holding home key you can boot into 6.60 ofw.
run the Fast Recovery to be on 6.60 PRO-B9. 

How to update PSP on AC source 

usually when you try to update PSP on AC w/o battery you get error
Here's a fix
All you need to do is hover over the update, and press and hold the Left Trigger and Triangle. While still holding the Left Trigger and Triangle, start the update. When it says press X to install, you can stop holding the trigger and triangle and proceed with the update.

Savegames appear corrupted after updating from GEN cfw to later one.

There are two fixes for this 
1.Download the patch for GEN cfw from here MEGAUPLOAD - The leading online storage and file delivery service
copy it into the Game folder and run it

.PLEASE NOTE: this must be used only on 5.50 GEN D 3 after you update from D 2 and get save errors.for other versions please use magic save

2.MagicSave which is a plugin (Thanks to El guapo for the mention and video) 

follow instructions in the video 



TRIPLE BOOT INTO 6.60 ofw , 6.60 PRO-B9, and 6.60 LME(for un-hackables)

1. first update to 6.60 ofw.
2. then install 6.60 PRO-B9 but don't apply the CIPL flasher
3. now run the 6.60 LME-1.6 update.

shut-down your psp and you will boot into 6.60 ofw
run the Fast Recovery of PRO cfw to be on 6.60 PRO-B9
run the launcher of LME to be on 6.60 LME

Q. i insert a pandora battery into my slim which is a 2k with TA-88v3 mobo, and only a green light appears , even though i insert mms and hold L trigger?

this is because the 2k with 88v3 mobo, does not support the per-ipl exploit, and cannot boot into the DC menu.the pandora powers up the psp, as it can access the service mode on TA-88v3 

Q. is it possible to install ChickHen on a psp 3k ?

yes it is possible, provided you have a 3k with module 03g. Above 03g, it is not possible to install ChickHen since the psp 3k with higher module does not support downgrading to 5.03 ofw.

Q.How do i go about taking UMD Backups?

1.make sure you have cfw installed, else not possible.
2.press select to enter vsh menu, and choose usb device as UMD
3.toggle USB
4.copy the iso file from the UMD window to anywhere you want.

q.When i try to connect to an access point - it says 'unsupported' in the encryption field and i'm not able to access it. Why?

most probably, you must have set the encryption of your access point to WPA 2, which is not supported by the psp.Change it to something like WEP or WPA to make it work.

q. How do i run 1.5 kernel apps wih LEDA on 6.39 ME and 6.60 ME

on 6.39 ME , 1.5 kernel emulation is built in. just goto recovery meny and change the GAME folder option to 1.5 kernel, and copy 1.5 apps there to the GAME folder.
for 6.60 ME , use the LEDA plugin that comes with the installation folder, and follow the instructions to install.

note: all 1.5 homebrew need not work by this method.

Q.how to reverse mod a softmod pandora back to normal one?

remove the softmod battery, power on the psp via ac source and goto the tool which you used to softmod, now re-insert battery and there should be an option to reverse the battery back to normal.

Q how do i format flash1 of my psp?

hold down start+select+square+triangle while booting up your psp to format flash1.

PS3 laser and deck information

There are currently three types of lasers that can be found inside PS3 consoles; 

KES-400A - in consoles released before 10/2007. 
KES-410A - in consoles released after 10/2007 (not slim consoles).
KES-450A - in all the slim model consoles only.

The below table should be used as a guide only to help with laser/ deck identification and we are not responsible for wrong model orders, please check the model number on the rear of your console (CECH***) and check against the guide below.  The model number on the laser and laser deck should always be confirmed visually if possible as additional postage is charged for exchange of another model.  The KES-400A has a single eye laser lens, the KES-410A and KES-450A have double eye laser lenses, (see our item pictures).

PS3 Model #

PS3 Release Date

PS3 Type

PS3 Hard drive

Laser Lens Model

Laser Deck Model

CECHA

8/2006 - 8/2007

Fat Model

60GB

KES-400A

KEM-400AAA

CECHB

8/2006 - 4/2007

Fat Model

20GB

KES-400A

KES-400AAA

CECHC

8/2006 - 8/2007

Fat Model

60GB

KES-400A

KEM-400AAA

CECHE

08/2007

Fat Model

80GB

KES-400A

KEM-400AAA

CECHG

10/2007

Fat Model

40GB

CHECK*

CHECK*

CECHH

10/2007

Fat Model

40GB

KES-410A

KEM-410ACA

CECHJ

08/2008

Fat Model

40GB

KES-410A

KEM-410ACA

CECHK

08/2008

Fat Model

80GB

KES-410A

KEM-410ACA

CECHL

08/2008

Fat Model

80GB

KES-410A

KEM-410ACA

CECHM

08/2008

Fat Model

80GB

KES-410A

KEM-410ACA

CECHP

10/2008

Fat Model

160GB

KES-410A

KEM-410ACA

CECHQ

04/2009

Fat Model

160GB

KES-410A

KEM-410ACA

CECH-20

09/2009

Slim Model

120GB/ 250GB

KES-450A

KEM-450AAA

CECH-21

03/2010

Slim Model

120GB/ 250GB

KES-450A

KEM-450AAA

CECH-25/30

06/2010

Slim Model

160GB/ 320GB

KES-450A

KEM-450DAA

 *The KES-410A laser is inside all 10/2007 consoles except some CECHG03 models, which can have either a KES-400A or KES-410A inside.  It is always best to have visual confirmation of the model number, however if you are unable to do so, use the following procedure; Insert a disc into your console, if the disc does not turn while going into your console, it has a KES-400A laser inside.  If the disc turns while going into the console, it has a KES-410A.

 

Source: 

Update March 2010

I have updated the chart again, this time with a better layout. Since there have been so many models released in North America, I had to make the chart wider than the site itself! You can scroll left or right to see all the features (and price) lower throughout the Playstation 3′s history.

Update August 2009 – Updated to include the PS3 Slim model, new price updates, and some new specs have been added.

Let’s face it – both the Playstation 3 and XBOX 360 are pretty complicated when it comes to differentiating between all the models and revisions that have been released over the past 2 years. This is especially the case with the PS3, as revisions don’t necessarily mean improved features – newer models have supplanted older ones that had better backwards compatibility, more USB ports, and larger hard drives for instance.

In an attempt to make sense of all the models, we have put together this handy chart for your reference. It applies mainly to the North American versions of the consoles. This guide should be a quick way to see which features are supported by which consoles. Curious if your unit is backwards compatible with Playstation 2 games in hardware mode, or if it’s emulated, or if it will play them at all? Get your model # and refer to the chart below:

20 GB
CECHB01

60 GB
CECHA01

80 GB
CECHE01

40 GB
CECHH01

40 GB
CECHG01

80 GB
CECHK01
CECHL01

160 GB
CECHP01

120 GB
CECH-2000A

250 GB
CECH-2000B

Release Date

11/ 2006

11/ 2006

08/2007

11/2007

05/2008

09/2008

11/2008

09/2009

11/2009

Avail. After 03/2010?

No

Yes

Launch Price

$499

$599

$599

$399

$599

$399

$499

$299

$349

Colour/Trim (NA Market)

Piano Black/Black

Piano Black/Chrome

Piano Black/Chrome

Piano Black/Satin Silver

Gunmetal Grey/Satin Silver

Piano Black/Satin Silver

Piano Black/Satin Silver

Matte Black

Matte Black

Hardware

Cell Fab Process

90nm

65nm

45nm

GPU Fab Process

90nm

65nm

Power Consumption

180W

135W

110W

73W

USB Ports

4

2

Flash Card Reader

No

Yes

Yes

No

WiFi

No

Yes

Bundled Accessories

Ethernet Cable

Yes

No

Video Cable

Composite (Analog)

Gamepad

SixAxis

DualShock 3

Compatibility

Linux

No (as of firmware 3.21 March 2010)

No

SACD

Yes

No

Playstation 2

Yes

Yes

Software

No

Now, to make sense of it all. As you can see, there are only two models currently under production; the new 80GB with 65nm CPU and GPU, and the 160GB that comes bundled with Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune and Pain. For a $100 difference, you basically get twice the storage capacity, and a decent game (as well as a crappy one). And that’s it – both consoles suffer from having no PS2 backwards compatibility at all, no flash card reader, no SACD support, and only 2 USB ports.

As of the introduction of the PS3 Slim,  you have two choices: A 120GB hard drive for $299, and a 250GB hard drive for $50 more. The “bigger” version adds nothing more than hard drive space, so it’s up to you to decide whether you think you need that space. For me, 60GB is plenty (even 20GB would be enough) and if there is ever need for more, it’s easy to just upgrade the drive yourself (and $50 is enough to get you a 250GB hard drive anyway).

The Slim also takes away one more feature: Linux support. This is a very niche feature anyway, and not very useful to most people. Still, it’s interesting to see all the features change from “yes” to “no” as the chart progresses to newer models… It still only has a pair of USB ports, which can be limiting if you like to plug in external drives to play media from.

There is still no sign of PS2 emulation being added, but it’s always a possibility.

Whether any of this stuff is important to you is up to you to decide. Personally, in the 2 years I’ve owned my PS3, I haven’t used any of those features besides the PS2 support (there were many PS2-era titles I missed)

As far as the older models go, you can see how they have changed over the last 2 years going from right to left on this chart. It’s clear that the sole purpose of these revisions is to make the console cheaper and more profitable. The CPU and GPU dies have shrunk from 90nm to 65nm (with the CPU finally hitting 45nm on the Slim) which saves Sony a significant amount of money on each console made (and should also lower power consumption significantly. Which is a good thing; the original PS3 is a real power hog).

To save more money, they are removing more and more hardware from the console with each revision; first to go was the Playstation 2 CPU on the first 80GB model. They left the PS2 GPU on there to maintain some level of backwards compatibility, which is a highly sought after feature that Sony pushed heavily when the Playstation 3 was first announced. Unfortunately, it proved to be difficult to get the Playstation 3 to properly emulate the PS2 CPU, as compatibility on that model was extremely poor. On all later revisions, PS2 support was dropped completely, and Sony changed their tune to express that today’s gamers want to play next-gen games, and if they want to play older games they can keep their PS2 or buy a new one which can still be found in stores. Other hardware followed suit, as Sony continued to trim down the extra features that very few people actually used – does anyone actually buy SACD’s anymore? Or regular CD’s for that matter?

As far as how the bundles accessories have changed, it’s good to see that they are including the DualShock 3 now, without increasing the price of the console. However, I have no idea why they haven’t yet started to bundle an HDMI cables or even component cables with what is supposed to be a next-generation video device…

What’s interesting to me is that the original 20GB and 60GB versions may retain their value on the used market better than subsequent models. Those are the only ones with proper backwards compatibility, and drive size is not an issue since it is easy to install a hard drive yourself.

 

Download the Action Replay DSi software

http://uk.codejunkies.com/support_downloads/Action-Replay-DSi-Code-Manager-PC-software.zip

 

 

Installing the Software using the Downloaded Folder

 

Firstly you need to extract the downloaded disc contents folder, double click the downloaded compressed zip file and select the option to extract the files. You can extract the files to a location of your choice.

 

In order to begin the installation, simply double click the ‘setup.exe’ file from within the uncompressed folder. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the software to a location of your choice. Once complete, you will continue to need the uncompressed folder to install the USB drivers when prompted. Locate the program in your Start Menu to run it.

 

In order to communicate with your Action Replay cartridge, your PC needs to be connected to it using the supplied USB to mini USB lead. Unlike previous versions of Action Replay DS, the cartridge should never be connected to your DS when you connect it to your PC. Connect the larger end of the USB lead to a free USB port on your PC and the smaller end to the mini USB connector on the Action Replay cartridge. When Action Replay is connected for the first time, Windows will prompt you to install the drivers.

 

 

Installing the Drivers using the Downloaded Folder

 

When you connect Action Replay to your PC Windows will prompt you to install the USB drivers for the new hardware. Direct Windows to the uncompressed downloaded folder. If Windows informs you that it is unable to locate the necessary drivers you may need to manually install the USB drivers.

 

Firstly you will need to access a part of Windows called Device Manager which will allow you access the options required to manually install the USB drivers.

In order to access Device Manager please follow these steps:

 

Windows 7 and Windows Vista Users, please follow these steps to access Device Manager:

 

Select your Start button, right-click on your Computer icon and select `Properties`.

On the shown system screen, select `device manager` from the tasks list shown on the left side of the screen.

Before the device manager screen is displayed, you may be shown a `User Account control` screen which states `Windows needs your permission to continue`. Select `Continue`.

 

Windows XP Users, please follow these steps to access Device Manager:

 

Select your Start button, right-click on your My Computer icon and select `Properties`.

On the shown system properties screen, select `hardware`.

 

Select `device manager`.

 

Windows 7 and Windows Vista Users, please follow these steps to install the drivers:

Step 1: Double click the Action Replay DSi icon.

Step 2: Select ‘Driver’.

Step 3: Select ‘Update Driver’.

Step 4: Select ‘Browse my computer for the driver software’.

Step 5: Select ‘Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer’.

Step 6: Highlight ‘Show all Devices’.

Step 7: Select ‘Next’.

Step 8: Select ‘Have Disk’.

Step 9: Select ‘Browse’

Step 10: Direct Windows to the uncompressed downloaded folder.

Step 11: Highlight the file named ‘dsiarhwprog’ if you are using a 32bit release of Windows or highlight the file named ‘dsiarhwprog_x64’ if you are using a 64bit release of Windows.

Step 12: Select ‘Open’.

Step 13: Select ‘OK’.

Step 14: Select ‘Next’.

Step 15: If you are shown a message which asks you to confirm the installation of the driver/software, select the button to confirm the installation.

 

Windows XP Users, please follow these steps to install the drivers:

Step 1: Double click the Action Replay DSi icon.

Step 2: Select ‘Driver’.

Step 3: Select ‘Update Driver’.

Step 4: Select ‘Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)’.

Step 5: Select ‘Don’t search, I will choose the driver to install’.

Step 6: Select ‘Next’.

Step 7: Highlight ‘Show All Devices’.

Step 8: Select ‘Next’.

Step 9: Select ‘Have Disk’.

Step 10: Select ‘Browse’

Step 11: Direct Windows to the uncompressed downloaded folder.

Step 12: Highlight the file named ‘dsiarhwprog’ if you are using a 32bit release of Windows or highlight the file named ‘dsiarhwprog_x64’ if you are using a 64bit release of Windows.

Step 13: Select ‘Open’.

Step 14: Select ‘OK’.

Step 15: Select ‘Next’.

Step 16: If you are shown a message which asks you to confirm the installation of the driver/software, select the button to confirm the installation.

DSi Action Replay Hardware Reset

If your DSi Action Replay no longer appears to load on your console, or when using the included DSi Action Replay Code Manager PC software the message ‘ARLE System Error’ is reported. You may need to perform a hardware reset, please follow the steps below:

  1. Open the DSi Action Replay Code Manager PC software
  2. Disconnect the DSi Action Replay from your console and connect it to your computer using the included USB cable
  3. When installed by Windows the DSi Action Replay will be detected by the Code Manager PC software which is confirmed by the message ‘Waiting for Action Replay Card’ no longer being displayed beneath the section ‘Memory Card’
  4. Select the four coloured circles from the top left of the software’s screen and select the option ‘About Action Replay DSi Code Manager’
  5. Select ‘Reset Hardware’ from the displayed screen to begin the hardware reset
  6. You are now asked to confirm the reset, select ‘Yes’ if you would like to continue, select ‘No’ to cancel. During the reset the displayed screen confirms the progress
  7. Once the hardware reset is complete as prompted disconnect and reconnect your DSi Action Replay after which select ‘OK’
  8. Transfer the codes which you require by dragging and dropping the game names from under the section ‘Subscriptions’ to the section ‘Memory Card’, select ‘Commit Changes’ and select ‘Yes’ to the displayed message

 

Using the software.

  1. Open the DSi Action Replay Code Manager PC software
  2. Disconnect the DSi Action Replay from your console and connect it to your computer using the included USB cable
  3. On the left side of the software, you will see the Codes that are already installed in your Action Replay card. On the right side, you will have the Codejunkies US (United States) / EU (Europe) / JP (Japan) Subscriptions with all the possible game codes.
  4. If you want to put a new game code in your Action Replay card, click on the cross corresponding to your Region on the right pane, search for the game you want to add, select it and then click add or drag and drop it on the left pane.
  5. After a few seconds this operation will be completed and the “Commit Changes” button on the top left of the software will be enabled. Click on it once and wait for the program to finish the update.
  6. You will see a message allowing you to disconnect the card from the PC. You can do so and load your favorite game on your DS/DSi.

 

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