Official PS3 FAQ Thread (Last Update: 9/5/2011) [console price drop update]

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abdelmessih101

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#1 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

Information Compiled by: abdelmessih101

Here is a link to the Gamespot PS3 Console Resource Center. Some of this information can also be found there.


PS3 GAMES


What games are exclusive to the PS3?

Notable PS3 Exclusives (currently out, and those to come) include:

***NOTE***
The links are for games that have already been reviewed. They take you to Metacritic.com which shows a "Metascore" which is "a weighted average of up to 30 reviews from national critics and publications for a given videogame". Basically, their critics evaluate every major gaming review site or magazine and then weigh the score according to the quality of that specific site/magazine relative to others. These weighted scores are averaged and the "Metascore" is displayed out of 100 points. You can read more about their scoring system here. They also provide links to all of the individuals reviews used to calculate their Metascore. Gamespot scores are indicated by GS.

  1. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves ___ Metascore = 96 ___ GS = 9.5
  2. LittleBigPlanet ___ Metascore = 95 ___ GS = 9.0
  3. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots ___ Metascore = 94 ___ GS = 10.0 :D
  4. God of War III ___ Metascore = 93 ___ GS = 9.0
  5. Killzone 2 ___ Metascore = 91 ___ GS = 9.0
  6. God of War Collection ___ Metascore = 91 ___ GS = no review
  7. Demon's Souls ___ Metascore = 90 ___ GS = 9.0
  8. MLB 09: The Show ___ Metascore = 90 ___ GS= 9.0
  9. MLB 10: The Show ___ Metascore = 90 ___ GS = 8.0 :?
  10. MLB 11: The Show ___ Metascore = 90 ___ GS = 8.0 :?
  11. Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction ___ Metascore = 89 ___ GS = 7.5 :?
  12. Ninja Gaiden Sigma ___ Metascore = 88 ___ GS = 9.0
  13. Uncharted: Drake's Fortune ___ Metascore = 88 ___ GS = 8.0 :?
  14. Resistance 2 ___ Metascore= 87 ___ GS = 9.0
  15. Heavy Rain ___ Metascore = 87 ___ GS = 8.5
  16. Ratchet and Clank Future: A Crack in Time ___ Metascore = 87 ___ GS = 8.5
  17. Valkyria Chronicles ___ Metascore = 87 ___ GS = 8.5
  18. Flower ___ Metascore = 87 ___ GS = 8.0 :?
  19. Resistance: Fall of Man ___ Metascore = 86 ___ GS = 8.6
  20. inFAMOUS ___ Metascore = 85 ___ GS = 9.0
  21. Killzone 3 ___ Metascore = 84 ___ GS = 8.5
  22. Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 ___ Metascore = 84 ___ GS = 8.5
  23. Warhawk ___ Metascore = 84 ___ GS = 8.5
  24. Gran Turismo 5 ___ Metascore = 84 ___ GS = 8.0
  25. ModNation Racers ___ Metascore = 82 ___ GS = 8.0
  26. Motorstorm: Pacific Rift ___ Metascore = 82 ___ GS = 8.0
  27. Motorstorm ___ Metascore = 82 ___ GS = 7.9
  28. Gran Turismo 5: Prologue ___ Metascore = 80 ___ GS = 7.5
  29. Heavenly Sword ___ Metascore = 79 ___ GS = 8.0
  30. Yakuza 3 ___ Metascore = 79 ___ GS = 8.0
  31. Fat Princess ___ Metascore = 79 ___ GS = 7.5
  32. Ridge Racer 7 ___ Metascore = 78 ___ GS = 8.0
  33. MAG ___ Metascore = 75 ___ GS = 8.0
  34. The Eye of Judgment ___ Metascore = 75 ___ GS = 7.5
  35. Folklore ___ Metascore = 75 ___ GS = 7.0
  36. SOCOM 4: US Navy SEALs ___ Metascore = 67 ___ GS = 7.5 :D
  37. White Knight Chronicles ___ Metascore = 64 ___ GS = 6.0
  38. SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Confrontation ___ Metascore =62 ___ GS = 6.5 (reviewed before online patch)
  39. Haze ___ Metascore = 55 ___ GS = 6.0
  40. Lair ___ Metascore = 53 ___ GS = 4.5 :?
  41. Final Fantasy Versus XIII
  42. Gran Turismo 5
  43. The Last Guardian
  44. The Agency (an MMO shooter allowing players to assume the role of secret agents)
  45. the continuation of the Kingdom Hearts series (rumor - no confimation or denial from developers yet)
  46. Home (not really a game; explained further later on in the thread)

For a more organized and updated list of ALL PS3 games, (which you can organize by exclusives), head over to Wikipedia. With a list that big, I'm sure you'll find something you like. :)


PS3 USER INTERFACE


What is the user-interface of the PS3?

The user-interface on the PS3 is called the Xross Media Bar or XMB (really pronounced cross media bar). It is exactly the same as the PSP's XMB and is very user friendly. Here is a complete PS3 XMB walkthrough from Joystiq.com. The walkthrough also contains information about Folding@home, which is explained later in the "Miscellaneous" section.

Is the XMB available in-game?

Yes, it was patched in with firmware update 2.40. You can now access the entire XMB and send/receive messages in-game, but other functions are not available.

Can you listen to your own playlist of music in-game?

Sony has allowed this feature along with the in-game XMB, but has left it up to developers to implement. Unfortunately, very few games allow this.

What are themes?

Themes are unique user-made alterations to the XMB. You can download themes directly onto your PS3 using the PS3's internet browser at sites such as All PS3 Themes.com and Playstation Universe.com.


DIFFERENT PS3 VERSIONS


What are the major similarities and differences between the different SKUs (versions)?

Here is the breakdown of what the different PS3 versions have to offer out of the box:

250GB SLIM:

  • $299 (in production)
  • new slimmer, lighter, more energy efficient design
  • Charcoal Black (matte finish)
  • NO PS2 backwards compatibility
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 2 USB ports, no multimemory card readers

160GB SLIM:

  • $249 (in production)
  • new slimmer, lighter, more energy efficient design
  • Charcoal Black (matte finish)
  • NO PS2 backwards compatibility
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 2 USB ports, no multimemory card readers

120GB SLIM:

  • $299 (not in production)
  • new slimmer, lighter, more energy efficient design
  • Charcoal Black system (matte finish)
  • NO PS2 backwards compatibility
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 2 USB ports, NO multimemory card readers

160GB:

  • $399 (not in production)
  • Piano Black system w/ satin silver trim
  • NO PS2 backwards compatibility
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 2 USB ports, NO multimemory card readers

New 80GB:

  • $299 (not in production)
  • Piano Black / Ceramic White / Satin Silver system (all have satin silver trim)
  • NO PS2 backwards compatibility
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 2 USB ports, NO multimemory card readers

Old 80GB:

  • (price varies, not in production)
  • Piano Black system w/ chrome trim
  • uses software emulation for PS2 backwards compatibility (about 95%)
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 4 USB ports, HAS multimemory card readers

60GB:

  • (price varies, not in production)
  • Piano Black system w/ chrome trim
  • uses built-in PS2 hardware for PS2 backwards compatibility (about 99%)
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 4 USB ports, HAS multimemory card readers
  • rumored to be more susceptible to hardware issues like YLOD

40GB:

  • (price and availability varies, not in production)
  • Piano Black / Ceramic White / Satin Silver system (all have satin silver trim)
  • NO PS2 backwards compatibility
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility and internal Wi-Fi
  • 2 USB ports, NO multimemory card readers

20GB:

  • (price and availability varies, not in production)
  • Piano Black system w/ black trim
  • uses built-in PS2 hardware for PS2 backwards compatibility (about 99%)
  • HAS PS1 backwards compatibility
  • NO Wi-Fi (Ethernet cable required for online play - wireless adapters also available)
  • 4 USB ports, HAS multimemory card readers

HDMI and component cables are sold separately.

What is the Yellow Light of Death (YLOD)?

The Yellow Light of Death (referred to as YLOD) is a major hardware failure of the PS3. It's rumored to affect mainly the 60GB versions of the PS3. Sony has not to my knowledge released any official information regarding the YLOD, but there is an Unofficial YLOD Information Thread on the Playstation forums. Refer to that thread for all of your YLOD background and repair information.

What are multimemory card readers?

Multimemory card reader means that particular version of the PS3 has slots for Memory Sticks (SD and PRO cards - used for PSP, some digital cameras, some cell phones, etc) and Compact Flash cards (also used for digital cameras).

Were some versions discontinued?

Yes, the 20GB was discontinued first because of poor sales, and the 60GB was the only version in production for a while. Once the Old 80GB and 40GB versions were introduced, the 60GB was discontinued. You probably won't find the 20GB or the 60GB new. The Old 80GB and the 40GB have now also been discontinued to make way for the New 80GB and the 160GB. Now, all "fat" PS3s have been discountinued to make way for the new SLIM models, available with 120GB or 250GB hard drives. The prices vary for all versions that were discontinued, so you may find them at a cheaper price than what is listed. The price may also vary depending on special bundles offered by certain sellers. In any case, you will have more luck looking for them used.

If the some versions of the PS3 have only 2 USB ports, will I be able to play with more than 2 players at a time?

Of course you can; all PS3 controllers are wireless. In fact, you can connect up to 7 wireless Bluetooth/USB devices at once, whether it be 7 PS3 controllers, 4 controllers + 1 Bluetooth headset + 1 wireless USB keyboard + 1 wireless mouse, etc, etc. You only need the USB ports to transfer data and/or charge your controllers and other wireless devices and you can buy a USB hub for about $10-$15 to add more ports if you really needed them.

Will the versions without PS2 backwards compatibility ever have PS2 backwards compatibility through software emulation like the Old 80GB?

No, not unless a new model of this version is introduced. The Old 80GB still has the PS2 graphics card (the GSX) and uses software emulation to give it the ability to play PS2 games. All PS3 versions are capable of software emulation like the Old 80GB, but it would still need the PS2 graphics cards to play PS2 games. However, rumors are swirling that even this is capable through software emulation and that Sony can and might patch it in at some point in the future.

Why does the Old 80GB PS3 have worse PS2 backwards compatibility than the 60GB and 20GB versions?

The Old 80GB uses software emulation, while the 60GB and 20GB versions have actual PS2 hardware inside them. As of right now, none of the PS3s are 100% backwards compatible, but the backwards compatibility issues with some games will be corrected over time through system updates. You can check backwards compatibility for the specific PS2 games if you're worried as to whether your 20GB, 60GB, or Old 80GB will play it.

Can I play PS2 games online using my PS3?

Yes. There's no official confirmation that this works, but some of the more recent PS2 games I have tried worked fine on the PS3.


PS3 ONLINE SERVICE


What about Online play?

Online service on the PS3 (called the Playstation Network) is completely free. The PS3 has the Playstation Store, where you can download free demos, videos, images, themes, rent / buy movies (in HD or SD), and buy PS1 games, other arcade-like games, add-ons to PS3 games, and entire PS3 games. On the XMB, once you log in to Playstation online account, you can see your buddy list, whether or not your buddies are online and what they're playing if they are online. You can send them a message or invite them to a chat room where you can use voice chat. You can also access saved photos,music, and videos from your XMB and this may be available in-game in the future.

What is Home?

Sony has released a basic version of Home; it's a virtual world where you can create and customize an avatar and a home for your avatar (ala The Sims). Also, you can access stuff from the Playstation Store in virtual shops, hang out at public spaces with other online PS3 users, and play virtual arcade games. You can text chat using your PS3 remote or keyboard or voice chat using a Bluetooth headset. You can invite your new-made friends back to your private home and share music and videos saved on your PS3, and even invite them to play multiplayer games together. Here is a Gametrailers.com 25 minute Home walkthrough.

Here are more Home demonstrations on Youtube: Home Demonstration Part 1/2
Home Demonstration Part 2/2

How does the Playstation Network (PSN) compare to Xbox Live (XBL)?

According to my experiences and the opinions of many others, Xbox Live isn't that much better than the Playstation Network. Unlike Xbox Live, access to online play on the Playstation Network is completely free. I've had my PS3 since January 2007, I have Comcast high-speed internet, I use a Linksys wireless G router to connect the PS3 to the internet wirelessly, and I have experienced very minimal (little to no) lag online or other online problems in general. I've heard from others on this site with both the PS3 and 360 who have said that the gamers on Xbox Live are generally less mature and there is more racism and cursing on Xbox Live than on the Playstation Network. Of course that may be due to the fact that fewer people have the PS3 right now. In the end ... it all depends upon your specific tastes and preferences. I can only share my opinions ... you will have to try them both out and form your own opinion.

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abdelmessih101

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#2 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts


PS3 and HDTVs


Do I need an HDTV to play the PS3?

No, an SDTV will do just fine. You will need an HDTV, however, to experience the full graphical ability of the PS3 and Blu-Ray.

What resolutions will the PS3 play?

The PS3 will play at any resolution, from 420i to 1080p, depending on the TV/monitor you're usingand the media you're playing on it. You will need component cables or HDMI cables, which are sold separately, for resolutions greater than 480p.

Where can I find more information about HDTVs?

You can use the HD - Guides and Info Links or the HDTV Guide V2.0, it's an HDTV information thread made a Gamespot member. You can also use Amazon.com's HDTV Buying Guide. Also, if you need help determining what size and resolution HDTV you should get, check out this 1080p vs 720p Informational Graph in a thread I made in the "Audio / Video Hardware Discussion" forum . The size and resolution of the TV you choose depends on how far away you sit from the TV.

***NOTE***
The Audio / Video Hardware Discussion forum is where threads about HDTVs belong, even if they pertain specifically to the PS3.


MISCELLANEOUS PS3 INFO


What is Folding@Home?

Since October 2000, over one million CPUs throughout the world have participated in this distributed computing project. The goal of this project is to research protein folding and misfolding to gain an understanding of how these are related to disease. Targeted diseases include (but are not limited to) Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and many forms of cancer. Your participation will help accelerate the understanding of these and other diseases. For more information, please visit Stanford University's Folding@home website located at: http://folding.stanford.edu/. The PS3 system's Cell Broadband Engine (Cell/B.E.) processor will dramatically add to the computing performance of the Folding@home project. Folding@home on PS3 utilizes the RSX graphics processor to provide a real-time visualization of the folding behavior of proteins. The locations of PS3 systems that are running Folding@home are displayed on the world map that is visible in the background. It's nice to know that you can be curing cancer and other diseases when you're not playing your PS3. :)

Does the PS3 have an achievement system like Xbox Live?

Yes, the PS3 has a Trophy system. Trophies are essentially the PS3's version of the "Achievement" system on the Xbox 360. However, instead of a Gamerscore, the player's rank is tracked by a level and experience system. All new game releases are now required to have trophies. However, many PS3 games released in 2008 and earlier do not have trophies.

What is Remote Play? How else can the PS3 interact / connect with the PSP?

The PSP can connect with the PS3 in many ways, including in-game connectivity. For example, Formula One: Championship Edition, a racing game, was shown at E3 2006 using a PSP as a real-time rear-view mirror. Another example is the additional game modes available between Resistance: Retribution for the PSP and Resistance 2 for the PS3.

There is an "Infected Mode" when you link-up the game to the PS3 version of Resistance 2. When the two games are connected you can unlock an alternate story mode within the alternate history. In the alternate story the character is infected with a mutated Chimeran virus, and the characters will behave differently than the normal game.

James Grayson, protagonist of Resistance: Retribution, will be infected by the Chimeran virus similar to the original game's Nathan Hale. Grayson also gets a new weapon, the HE .44 Magnum featured in Resistance 2. Grayson also gets the ability to breathe underwater, letting him access areas of Resistance: Retribution that a normal version of our hero could never reach. That will likely play into finding the new unlockable intel only available if your copy of the PSP game is "infected."

In addition, it is possible to download PS1 games to the PS3 from the PlayStation Store. These games were not originally playable on the PS3. They could only be sent to a PSP, and played using the PSP's PlayStation Emulator. Sony added support for playing downloaded PlayStation titles on PS3 on April 18, 2007, with the update to firmware revision 1.70.

Sony has also demonstrated the PSP playing back video content, including 1080p content from the PS3 HDD across an ad-hoc wireless network. This feature is referred to as Remote Play located under the browser icon on both the PS3 and the PSP. Remote play has since expanded to allow remote access to the PS3 via PSP from any wireless access point in the world.

What is "Life with Playstation"?

It is an application from Google that allows PS3 users to search news and maps across the world while Folding@home on their PS3s.

Can I upgrade my PS3's hard drive?

Yes, you can use any 2.5" SATA hard drive. Here is a Gamespot tutorial on how to upgrade the PS3's hard drive. You can also use an external hard drive.

What does the PS3 have to offer other than games?

It's a cheap alternative form of Blu-Ray player. Other standalone Blu-Ray players on the market cost around $200, so you can think of the PS3 as a combination of a $200 Blu-Ray player and a $100 next-gen HD game console. The PS3 can also be used to store music, photos, and videos, and it has a web-browser as well. The PS3 can be your all-in-one gaming and media center.

What accessories are the PS3 compatible with?

The PS3 is compatible with Bluetooth headsets/mice/keyboards, USB keyboards and mice as well as other USB devices, 2.5" SATA hard drives (used for laptops as well). There are two controllers, the SIXAXIS, and the Dualshock 3 - both have motion sensitivity and the Dualshock 3 adds rumble. There is also the PS3 Blu-Ray Remote, the Playstation Eye Camera, and the Play TV digital video recorder accessory.

Does the PS3 upscale DVDs and/or PS1/PS2 games?

Yes, the PS3 upscales everything from PS1 and PS2 games, to DVDs as well.

How can I back up my PS3 hard drive?

This is an excerpt from Chickan_117's blog who was nice enough to let me add this to the FAQ. If you're interested in the blog please read the full article here and leave comments.

What you'll need:

  • 1 x PC or Laptop, any OS or capacity is fine
  • 1 x external hard drive (AC powered, not USB powered)

This is an easy backupto do. First you may need to setup your external drive though. If you think your drive is ok skip ahead to the backup procedure.

  1. Plug the external drive into your PC

If you're using a Mac OS:

  1. Launch Disk Utility
  2. Click the external drive on the left hand side
  3. Click the partition button at the top
  4. Select your volume scheme (1 partition, 2 partitions, etc.) on the left
  5. Change the names, volume sizes, etc. and, when done, click Apply

If you'reusing a Windows OS:

  1. Open Computer Management (Start > Run > compmgmt.msc)
  2. Click Disk Management on the left side
  3. Identify your external hard drive.

    NOTE : It is vital you perform the following actions on your external hard disk drive only. If you do it on a system disc you will probably be unable to easily restart windows.
  4. Create a new volume and partition by right clicking the drive and selecting the appropriate option.

    NOTE : It is advised you create the partition slightly larger than your PS3 drive. So, if you have an 80gb unit make the partition size 100gb. Do not make any partition larger than 1tB or this process will not work.

  5. Take note of the drive letter that the system assigns the drive.
  6. When prompted to format the drive choose to leave it unformatted.
  7. Download and install the HP USB Disk Storage Tool (http://www.eocfiles.com/bdc86eb1ed2989c30dcd1902e84939ae/bootdisks/SP27608.exe)
  8. Double click the "HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool" icon on your desktop. If you are running Windows Vista or Windows 7 you will need to right click this icon and select "Run as administrator"
  9. Select the drive identified in step 5 above.
  10. Ensure the file system is FAT32
  11. Give the drive a label if you like (e.g. PS3_Backup in the below example)
  12. Tick Quick Format and pressStart

EDIT : I've received messages from people getting a write protected error here. If you get this ensure you have closed the computer management snap-in we opened in step 1.

NOTE : For those who do not wish to install software you can open a command prompt (Start > Run > cmd) and typeformat /FS:FAT32 Z: to format the disk (where Z: is the drive letter assigned to your external drive). This is very slow and restriced to 32gb partitions however.

You now have an external hard drive formatted for use with your PS3. Now it's time to perform the backup.

  1. Plug the external hard disk into your PS3
  2. Navigate to Settings > System Settings > Backup Utility
  3. Select Back Up
  4. Select Yes when prompted
  5. You should now see your external hard drive. If you did not complete the above steps correctly (or you're using a USB powered drive) you will get a "no disks detected" error message. Select the drive and press X
  6. The backup will now commence. It's a very slow process so don't be alarmed if it takes anywhere from 30 minutes up to backup a small amount of data.
  7. When complete you will see a "Back up completed" message on screen.

If you ever lose your hard disk you can now easily restore the data and recover some of your hard work.

EDIT : Modified to use HP USB Disk Storage Tool instead of SwissKnife due to compatability issues for some users. Also added Mac instructions.


SHOULD I GET A PS3?


The decision is up to you, and only you. After reading this thread, you have enough information to make the best decision for your wants and needs.


DISCLAIMER


If anyone has any information to add or correct, please feel free to do so. To my knowledge, all of the information on this post is factual, and I made sure to note if I was unsure about anything. If you find that any information on here is incorrect or missing, please notify me with proof and I will edit my post ASAP. Be sure to provide proof that I am wrong and/or that you are right in the form of a link to a credible source.

I'm not attempting to start a system wars debate; I'm just trying to help inform potential PS3 buyers about the console, so please refrain from starting a system wars type of debate here ... that's what system wars is for. :)

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West-Coast-G

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#3 West-Coast-G
Member since 2006 • 4414 Posts
very nice. This should be stickied, maybe...i think it should. Anyway, very nice. We should get together on Call of Duty sometime,
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abdelmessih101

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#4 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

very nice. This should be stickied, maybe...i think it should. Anyway, very nice. We should get together on Call of Duty sometime,West-Coast-G

That's what I'm hoping for!

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rogerjak

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#5 rogerjak
Member since 2004 • 14950 Posts
Great topic. Congrats on the sticking
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abdelmessih101

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#6 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

Great topic. Congrats on the stickingrogerjak

Thanks man ... it took quite a while, but it paid off.

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bobbyD213

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#7 bobbyD213
Member since 2006 • 711 Posts
Wow you must have posted this at least 100 times before it got stickied. Very persistant.
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abdelmessih101

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#8 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

Yeah, it was a long process. The first one I made was far too biased and I even got a one week suspension because of my own stupidity when I tried to get that one stickied :cry:. Said stupid acts forced the mod to lock the board and add to my shame. :(

I'm glad to say that I've matured a lot since then, edited my post into a Q&A at the request of a mod, removed all the bias, and got my sticky :D!

Now, this thread will have its own sticky for a while so that I can get some feedback from users here on the PS3 board, and then it's going to be linked in duxup's floated thread. The other Q&A thread in there is severely outdated ... it doesn't even include the new SKUs or the price drop :shock:

I'm not sure, but I think mine will replace that one ... and I'll be sure to keep this one up-to-date

So, do you guys have any feedback as to what should be added to the thread?

***EDIT***

You can read the full story at my blog.

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king23_

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#9 king23_
Member since 2007 • 18169 Posts
Nice Job with this.
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lagreendown

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#11 lagreendown
Member since 2006 • 1612 Posts
nice how long did it take to make this thread?
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abdelmessih101

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#12 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

nice how long did it take to make this thread? lagreendown

Well ... I did most of the actual work typing up the thread back in mid-to-late November. I tried to get that version stickied, but it didn't work out (see my blog for the full story). Anyway, I had some free time, being that it's my winter break from school and all, so I decided to edit the thread and fix it up and request another sticky. So, after a good hour of work last night, I was done.

The compilation and actual making of the thread took no more than 3-4 hours, but that was only half the battle. It took a combined 2-3 hours of conversation and "campaigning" with moderaters for both times I requested a sticky. So that's a grand total of 5-7 hours from start to finish, and a whole lot of copying and pasting in between.

But hey ... look at the result ... I sure am proud of it :).

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#13 dewmandew7
Member since 2005 • 4152 Posts
I commented on a couple changes you might want to make in the comment section of your blog post. Besides those, excellent work. I hope people will actually read this.
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#14 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

I commented on a couple changes you might want to make in the comment section of your blog post. Besides those, excellent work. I hope people will actually read this.dewmandew7

Thanks for the contributions, I've made the appropriate changes. I just checked, and both 420 and 480 exist as resolutions for SDTVs. Other than that, everything you pointed out was fixed.

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#15 dewmandew7
Member since 2005 • 4152 Posts

[QUOTE="dewmandew7"]I commented on a couple changes you might want to make in the comment section of your blog post. Besides those, excellent work. I hope people will actually read this.abdelmessih101

Thanks for the contributions, I've made the appropriate changes. I just checked, and both 420 and 480 exist as resolutions for SDTVs. Other than that, everything you pointed out was fixed.

Oh, really? Never heard of 420i/p. Thanks for the info. :)

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Timesplitter14

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#16 Timesplitter14
Member since 2006 • 5934 Posts
Can I use a custom PSN account image and how can I use it? (a picture I took)
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samuraiguns

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#17 samuraiguns
Member since 2005 • 11588 Posts
u should add the thing about the ps3 yes/no being ble to play ps2 games online cuz i sure want to know
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dewmandew7

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#18 dewmandew7
Member since 2005 • 4152 Posts

Can I use a custom PSN account image and how can I use it? (a picture I took)Timesplitter14

Nope.

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AnFangs_Endes

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#19 AnFangs_Endes
Member since 2007 • 3785 Posts

I believe the 80GB still had a piece of hardware from the PS2 left. I think it was the graphics card from the PS2 (GSX if I recall correctly) which wasn't put in the 40GB, which is why it can't play PS2 games. So it's not full software emulation.

I just get the feeling someone is going to ask: "But why can't the 40GB play PS2 games if it's software based on the 80GB?" at some point.

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abdelmessih101

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#20 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

I believe the 80GB still had a piece of hardware from the PS2 left. I think it was the graphics card from the PS2 (GSX if I recall correctly) which wasn't put in the 40GB, which is why it can't play PS2 games. So it's not full software emulation.

I just get the feeling someone is going to ask: "But why can't the 40GB play PS2 games if it's software based on the 80GB?" at some point.

AnFangs_Endes

Thanks for pointing that out ... I'll add it in

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abdelmessih101

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#21 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

u should add the thing about the ps3 yes/no being ble to play ps2 games online cuz i sure want to knowsamuraiguns

I've tried and failed with a few games ... but that could've been for a number of reasons and doesn't specifically mean that would be the case with all PS2 games. I also have read any 'official' confirmation either way, so I can't say.

The problem I had was with the actual network. This is just speculation, but that since they changed the actual online network in the transition from the PS2 to the PS3, the networksmay not be compatible.

So unti there is further confirmation on this subject, I can't include it in my post.

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dewmandew7

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#22 dewmandew7
Member since 2005 • 4152 Posts

[QUOTE="samuraiguns"]u should add the thing about the ps3 yes/no being ble to play ps2 games online cuz i sure want to knowabdelmessih101

I've tried and failed with a few games ... but that could've been for a number of reasons and doesn't specifically mean that would be the case with all PS2 games. I also have read any 'official' confirmation either way, so I can't say.

The problem I had was with the actual network. This is just speculation, but that since they changed the actual online network in the transition from the PS2 to the PS3, the networksmay not be compatible.

So unti there is further confirmation on this subject, I can't include it in my post.

I have been able to play Star Wars: Battlefront II, Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal, and Ratchet: Deadlocked online on my PS3. Is that confirmation enough?

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Dante865

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#23 Dante865
Member since 2005 • 4196 Posts
May i add a section on how to install a new HDD in your PS3? :|
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abdelmessih101

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#24 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts
[QUOTE="abdelmessih101"]

[QUOTE="samuraiguns"]u should add the thing about the ps3 yes/no being ble to play ps2 games online cuz i sure want to knowdewmandew7

I've tried and failed with a few games ... but that could've been for a number of reasons and doesn't specifically mean that would be the case with all PS2 games. I also have read any 'official' confirmation either way, so I can't say.

The problem I had was with the actual network. This is just speculation, but that since they changed the actual online network in the transition from the PS2 to the PS3, the networksmay not be compatible.

So unti there is further confirmation on this subject, I can't include it in my post.

I have been able to play Star Wars: Battlefront II, Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal, and Ratchet: Deadlocked online on my PS3. Is that confirmation enough?

Ok ... the game I tried was an older version of Madden (2005 to be exact) ... so it might have been due to the fact that no one was playing it online anymore. I have Up Your Arsenal and Ratchet: Deadlocked ... I guess I'll try them myself and see ... until then, I'll take your word for it.

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abdelmessih101

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#25 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

May i add a section on how to install a new HDD in your PS3? :|Dante865

I've already included a link to Gamespot page that explains how to do that ... but thanks for your concern :)

***EDIT***

Here it is taken from my post:

"Can I upgrade my PS3's hard drive?

Yes, you can use any 2.5" SATA hard drive. Here is a Gamespot tutorial on how to upgrade the PS3's hard drive."

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motherboop

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#26 motherboop
Member since 2007 • 2382 Posts

Finally got it up. Sweet.

Just to point out, 40GB doesn't have chrome, its just silver. I don't have any proof, but I'll look around on the net for a pic and send you the link.

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motherboop

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#27 motherboop
Member since 2007 • 2382 Posts

Link

Its a 40 GB picture from an auction on Ebay. The trim is either painted silver or bruched aluminum.

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Quadrifoglio

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#30 Quadrifoglio
Member since 2006 • 5451 Posts

Yeah, it was a long process. The first one I made was far too biased and I even got a one week suspension because of my own stupidity when I tried to get that one stickied :cry:. Said stupid acts forced the mod to lock the board and add to my shame. :(

I'm glad to say that I've matured a lot since then, edited my post into a Q&A at the request of a mod, removed all the bias, and got my sticky :D!

Now, this thread will have its own sticky for a while so that I can get some feedback from users here on the PS3 board, and then it's going to be linked in duxup's floated thread. The other Q&A thread in there is severely outdated ... it doesn't even include the new SKUs or the price drop :shock:

I'm not sure, but I think mine will replace that one ... and I'll be sure to keep this one up-to-date

So, do you guys have any feedback as to what should be added to the thread?

***EDIT***

You can read the full story at my blog.

abdelmessih101

Wait a minute. You can get suspended for being biased? I don't see GameSpot getting suspended all the time. :P

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abdelmessih101

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#31 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts
[QUOTE="abdelmessih101"]

Yeah, it was a long process. The first one I made was far too biased and I even got a one week suspension because of my own stupidity when I tried to get that one stickied :cry:. Said stupid acts forced the mod to lock the board and add to my shame. :(

I'm glad to say that I've matured a lot since then, edited my post into a Q&A at the request of a mod, removed all the bias, and got my sticky :D!

Now, this thread will have its own sticky for a while so that I can get some feedback from users here on the PS3 board, and then it's going to be linked in duxup's floated thread. The other Q&A thread in there is severely outdated ... it doesn't even include the new SKUs or the price drop :shock:

I'm not sure, but I think mine will replace that one ... and I'll be sure to keep this one up-to-date

So, do you guys have any feedback as to what should be added to the thread?

***EDIT***

You can read the full story at my blog.

Quadrifoglio

Wait a minute. You can get suspended for being biased? I don't see GameSpot getting suspended all the time. :P

lol ... That's obviously not why I was suspended ... read my blog to find out

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abdelmessih101

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#32 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

Finally got it up. Sweet.

Just to point out, 40GB doesn't have chrome, its just silver. I don't have any proof, but I'll look around on the net for a pic and send you the link.

motherboop

If I'm wrong, then so is Gamespot ...look here ... it's under PS3 system comparison

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abdelmessih101

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#34 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

holy ****!!

very nice guide!!!

answers nearly all my questions :P

thanks :)

jasopan

That's what it's here for :wink:... you're welcome

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motherboop

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#35 motherboop
Member since 2007 • 2382 Posts
[QUOTE="motherboop"]

Finally got it up. Sweet.

Just to point out, 40GB doesn't have chrome, its just silver. I don't have any proof, but I'll look around on the net for a pic and send you the link.

abdelmessih101

If I'm wrong, then so is Gamespot ...look here ... it's under PS3 system comparison

haha yeah, they goofed.
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abdelmessih101

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#36 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts
[QUOTE="abdelmessih101"][QUOTE="motherboop"]

Finally got it up. Sweet.

Just to point out, 40GB doesn't have chrome, its just silver. I don't have any proof, but I'll look around on the net for a pic and send you the link.

motherboop

If I'm wrong, then so is Gamespot ...look here ... it's under PS3 system comparison

haha yeah, they goofed.

Maybe they did, but unless you can find a better picture, preferably one comparing the 40GB with the 60GB or 80GB, which do have a chrome trim, I'm not changing it.

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zeforgotten

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#37 zeforgotten
Member since 2006 • 3918 Posts
So you finally got it stickied? (haven't been that active, so don't know when exactly) Congrats, and it's still a great read. it will help some people. yet they still make the moronic topics asking about the PS3. but they'll learn at some point. but yeah, it's still great even without the so called bias (wasn't THAT bad was it? :P)
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Sokol4ever

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#38 Sokol4ever
Member since 2007 • 6717 Posts

This is a good sticky. It will help the folks that are in the market for PlayStation 3, and it will answer lots of their questions.

Very helpful indeed, great job.

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abdelmessih101

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#39 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

This is a good sticky. It will help the folks that are in the market for PlayStation 3, and it will answer lots of their questions.

Very helpful indeed, great job.

Sokol4ever

Thanks

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deactivated-6075a5c511e8b

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#40 deactivated-6075a5c511e8b
Member since 2005 • 7222 Posts
Great thread.
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motherboop

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#41 motherboop
Member since 2007 • 2382 Posts
[QUOTE="motherboop"][QUOTE="abdelmessih101"][QUOTE="motherboop"]

Finally got it up. Sweet.

Just to point out, 40GB doesn't have chrome, its just silver. I don't have any proof, but I'll look around on the net for a pic and send you the link.

abdelmessih101

If I'm wrong, then so is Gamespot ...look here ... it's under PS3 system comparison

haha yeah, they goofed.

Maybe they did, but unless you can find a better picture, preferably one comparing the 40GB with the 60GB or 80GB, which do have a chrome trim, I'm not changing it.

do what you want. Here's a much better picture thoughLink
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SemiMaster

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#42 SemiMaster
Member since 2006 • 19011 Posts
A good topic to add to this that isn't HDTV but HDTV to PS3 related is HDMI cables. Some HDMI cables aren't compatible with the PS3, others are clearly. I believe the PS3 is required to have 1.3 HDMI cables, but I could be wrong. Information regarding compatible HDMI cable brands and such would be pretty nice to add to this already helpful thread.
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abdelmessih101

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#43 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

A good topic to add to this that isn't HDTV but HDTV to PS3 related is HDMI cables. Some HDMI cables aren't compatible with the PS3, others are clearly. I believe the PS3 is required to have 1.3 HDMI cables, but I could be wrong. Information regarding compatible HDMI cable brands and such would be pretty nice to add to this already helpful thread.SemiMaster

I haven't come across anything that has said the PS3 is compatible with only a certain version of HDMI cables ... although its possible. I'm pretty sure someone must have come across a cable that the PS3 wasn't compatible with if they existed ... and I've never read that in my research. I don't have the time to do extensive research on that, so I would appreciate if you would be willing to do so.

Thanks for the complements by the way.

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SemiMaster

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#44 SemiMaster
Member since 2006 • 19011 Posts

[QUOTE="SemiMaster"]A good topic to add to this that isn't HDTV but HDTV to PS3 related is HDMI cables. Some HDMI cables aren't compatible with the PS3, others are clearly. I believe the PS3 is required to have 1.3 HDMI cables, but I could be wrong. Information regarding compatible HDMI cable brands and such would be pretty nice to add to this already helpful thread.abdelmessih101

I haven't come across anything that has said the PS3 is compatible with only a certain version of HDMI cables ... although its possible. I'm pretty sure someone must have come across a cable that the PS3 wasn't compatible with if they existed ... and I've never read that in my research. I don't have the time to do extensive research on that, so I would appreciate if you would be willing to do so.

Thanks for the complements by the way.

Well, myself and others (specifically after looking through Amazon.com for another HDMI cable) have said that certain cheaper HDMI cables don't work, you get a (Non compatible signal) or something type error when trying to use a lower quality HDMI cable. Also if you read the instructions, 1.3 HDMI HCCP or something compliant is what is recommended by Sony.

I only mention this because I'm not the only one who has had this issue.

For instance, here is a relatively new post regarding HDMI questions

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ShaolinSun

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#45 ShaolinSun
Member since 2007 • 160 Posts

ok... i jus copped an 80 GB for xmas... and i checked how much free space i have... i mean i uploaded 3 albums have like 10 pics, but like why does it say i only have 64GB freespace... what is taking that 16 GB???????!?!?!?! hahahaha

thanks in advance

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SemiMaster

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#46 SemiMaster
Member since 2006 • 19011 Posts

ok... i jus copped an 80 GB for xmas... and i checked how much free space i have... i mean i uploaded 3 albums have like 10 pics, but like why does it say i only have 64GB freespace... what is taking that 16 GB???????!?!?!?! hahahaha

thanks in advance

ShoalinSun

Doesn't it have the backwards compatibility software or something for emulating the PS1 and 2?

Or other demos and such?

Also when someone says X GB hard drive, it's more like X - a certain% of X. Like a Megabyte is actually like 1,048,576 bytes, not just 1 million. So you lose like 5% of whatever your hard drive space is advertised.

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WARRFREAK

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#47 WARRFREAK
Member since 2002 • 175 Posts
How would i know if the hdmi cable i buy is the version 1.3? I check futureshop's and bestbuy's HDMI cables and nothing mention that its 1.3.
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motherboop

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#48 motherboop
Member since 2007 • 2382 Posts
As far as I know, all HDMI cables are the same. I've never heard of people not being able to hook up a PS3 because there HDMI cable wasn't good enough. Plenty of people buy the cheap 7 dollar cables off of ebay, and they work just fine. Don't you think products would advertise that some HDMI cables aren't compatible with certain electronics???
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financeranger

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#49 financeranger
Member since 2005 • 5181 Posts
Excellent info here, thanks. I am now 99% sure I bought the right PS3!
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abdelmessih101

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#50 abdelmessih101
Member since 2007 • 5230 Posts

Excellent info here, thanks. I am now 99% sure I bought the right PS3!financeranger

Thanks for the complements, you're welcome, and congratulations.