Sony releases PS2 Linux kit to US market

Last week, Sony quietly released the PS2 Linux Kit, a mail-order-only package of hardware and software that will let users run the Linux operating system on the PlayStation 2. The package is intended for programmers and hobbyists and really won't be of much use to anyone who isn't already at least somewhat familiar with the Linux OS.

The kit contains a two-disc set containing the Linux software, the PlayStation 2 hard drive, a USB keyboard, a USB mouse, a monitor adapter, and a PlayStation 2 network adapter. Players shouldn't get too excited about the ability to get these peripherals early via the kit, because the hard drive doesn't come with any standard driver software--therefore, it won't be useful outside of the Linux environment. The network adapter would appear to be a broadband-only version of the hardware, but it should be functional with online games, like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3. Finally, the monitor adapter is designed solely for use with the Linux kit and isn't designed to function as an upscan converter.

There are already a handful of projects available for testing with the kit, including an early version of a game called Spiderland and a version of the popular arcade emulator MAME. For more information on the kit and what people are doing with it, visit the official site at www.playstation2-linux.com.