Since a lot of newcomers are joining the PS3 subforum, let's consolidate the Frequently Asked Questions into one place.
The format is simple, post & ask any questions regarding PS3. When other forumers answer it, we can update the 1st post. If anyone spot some incorrect info on the answers, let us know the corrections.
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http://playstation.custhelp.com - Official Playstation Knowledge Center
http://manuals.playstation.net - PS3 manual
Unofficial PLAYSTATION®3 GENERAL FAQ at boardsus.playstation.com compiled by AckeheceKoheo
PS3 / Games Complete FAQ - Everything you need to know! at gameaxis forums compiled by charleslin
http://www.edepot.com/playstation3.html - (thanks to ruztynail for the link)
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Q) Tell me more about PS3 firmware update 2.60
A) Refer here. The link for FW2.60
MD5 hash = 043067d8624040f9f3f1a8dc2e662bce
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Reference for the folder structure used on a USB removable flash drive. The correct structure is essential when copying certain files to the PS3.
the MD5 hash is on the link itself - regiondirectory/YYYY_MMDD_MD5hash/PS3UPDAT.PUP
http://fsa01.ps3.update.playstation.net/up...-updatelist.txt
some MD5 hash checkers -
http://www.mgillespie.plus.com/MD5Check.zip
http://www.download.com/DigestIT-2004/3000...4-10387706.html
Q) After updating the PS3's FW, now my PS3 is bricked
A) Refer to PS3 hidden recovery menu and here - szhafri, Muchi
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SPECIAL ATTENTION:
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There have been several cases of lens problems with PS3. While there is no solid explanation for these lens failures (one theory is the overheating of the lens), I'll just list down some of the best practices recommended by our community here.
- if possible, remove the BD from PS3 before you shut it off (advice from Bernard of GS)
- in any case of freeze/lockups, eject any disc in the drive first before attempting to restart the system. This will lower the risk of the BD drive problem - vorchiel
- a few have theorized the questionable quality of pirated DVD movies may overly-stressed the BD laser leading to failures, best avoid them
- as always, don't place the ps3 in a closed off cabinet with restricted airflow. make sure the placement of the ps3 don't block any of its vents.
- Try not to place your PS3 on the same level that you place your front speakers. The sounds generated from the speakers regardless low or high volume will cause some low or high vibration across the AV cabinet or table panel and this might have a negative damage impact on the BD mechanism lens and it parts (especially when the lens is in reading mode, the sensitivity is much greater to any shock or vibration) - raoul
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Q) I'm buying a PS3 soon! What is the current pricing at local shops?
A) Join discussion about updated pricing here.
Q) The are many regions/versions of PS3, I'm confused!?
A) Check this [http://edepot.com/playstation3.html]list[/url] - vorchiel
Q) The are many regions/versions of PS3, how to identify what region is the PS3?
A) Check the sticker on the box/back of the console. 06 indicates MY/SGP set. at the moment, MY model number - CECHK06
http://asia.playstation.com/eng_my/index.p...tion_3/hardware
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Q) Which ps3 version/country&compatible are the best and suitable for malaysia's ps3 gamers?
A) Since the ps3 games are region free, it doesn't really matter what region ps3 to buy. SonyMY have recently launched PS3 model CECHK06 so it is recommended to buy MY set. Local set comes with 1 year warranty (parts + labor). Obviously this include the infamous PS3 "lens problem".
http://asia.playstation.com/my/en/support/...antyInformation
https://www.playstation.com.hk/warrant_mem/...ber/mem_reg.jsp
http://mysony.sony.com.my/ps_warranty.htm
http://corp.sony.com.my/genuine/genuine_verify.asp
This are some tips how to know its Malaysia 80GB PS3 :
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Q) My PS3 is from JP/USA/etc. Do I need a step-up or step-down power transformer?
A) PS3 has an auto-sensing power supply. No transformers needed.
Q) Can i replace the japan power cable given with a standard pc power cable?
A) Yes, PS3 uses the standard power cable used in PCs and monitors. So if you bought an import US/JP/TW/etc set, you can just replace with your own M'sian plug cable.
Q) How much are original games? Are the games region free?
A) Yes, PS3 games are region free. Games can cost anywhere between RM160 to RM 220, depending on the game or region. Go ahead and download demos, its easy to do and will provide you an idea of what to expect from some games - Hitman190
Q) So whats the difference between US and Asian version of the game? Language? Some of it price diff is really high.
A) Not much difference. Obviously all US Version game support English Language and have English manuals. Not all Asian versions support English and they usually have chinese game manuals, so check the back of the cover (language is listed there) before buying. US games are around USD60, while Asian games are HKD350~450.
Note: free or paid DLC(expansions/game-addons) are region specific. For example, a US version version of Warhawk only works with US version of WH expansion pack. Another example, Asian Folklore only works with DLC packs from Asian PSN store.
Q) The ps3 games - R1,R2,R3. What's the difference?
A) Refer http://forums.gameaxis.com/showpost.php?p=...150&postcount=4
Q) Do we need to buy games of the same region to be able to play online together?
A) This is a tricky question. Some PS3 games are fully international and can play online worldwide across the different versions (e.g warhawk, GTA4), some can not (e.g motorstorm, MGS4). Best do some research on the game's online capability first before buying.
Q) Can I play ps1/ps2 games on PS3?
A) The short answer - all PS3 models can play PS1 games. (the disc based PS1 games are still region locked - Asian PS3 code is NTSC/J)
The long answer - some earlier models of PS3 can also play PS2 games, but they are not longer made/sold. The best option to play PS2 games is still PS2 + SDTV
Q) If my ps3 asia version, can it play whatever blu-ray movie region?
A) Asian PS3 plays blu-ray region A.
Region A: North America, Central America, South America, Japan, Taiwan, North Korea, South Korea, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.
Region B: Europe, Greenland, French territories, Middle East, Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
Region C: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Mainland China, Pakistan, Russia, Central and South Asia
for europe region free titles, u can check here - PrinceOfPersia
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SETUP & ACCESSORIES
Q) I'm on a budget but wish to enjoy PS3 in HD rather than my old TV. What are my cheapest options?
A) Get a wide-screen LCD monitor ~RM700. Make sure it has DVI(HDCP) or HDMI input and supports 720p. Buy a DVI-to-HDMI cable. Get a budget 2.1 speaker set if needed.
LCD Monitor Thread v5.00 - TheUndead
Q) I want to play PS3 with LCD monitor. But its an old model which does not support DVI or HDCP. How?
A) You need a VGA box - it converts the component output to VGA signal
eg. VGA box 2198p, www.hdboxpro.com, etc.
Refer to the VGA box setup guide on post 2 further down the pg - kazasho
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Q) A widescreen PC LCD monitor basically has an aspect ratio of 16:10(compared to a widescreen LCD TV which is 16:9), rite? So, does the image usually appear stretched for the LCD monitor? Is it too obvious?
A) It will be stretched slightly if the monitor does not support 1:1 pixel mapping since the aspect ratio is different. However it is not that noticeable (well at least for me) - theGOne
Q) I'm using PS3 with PC monitor. But the monitor don't have speaker/sound. How?
A) You need a 2.1 speaker set. For the audio, you need to get yourself a Y-splitter cable. Like this:
Then, connect the composite cable to the back of your PS3, the red and white audio to the Y-splitter, and the other end of the Y-splitter to your speakers. Just ask any computer shop for it. Must have one. Only RM10 I think. - TheUndead
The Y-splitter cable RM4-5 bucks if u buy from imbi plaza , electrical shop behind imbi mario, they have a lot of conversion cables of any type - Synco
Can also buy at Jalan Pasar - theGOne
Alternatively, if you buy a Home Theater in a Box (HTiB) set that accepts optical input and decodes DD5.1 and DTS , you can enjoy surround sound.
Q) What PS3 games support DTS? how to enable its support?
A) Refer here.
Q) How do reset the PS3 display settings. (e.g. moving from SDTV<->HDTV)?
A) The factory reset is probably what you need to try next. Hold down the power button (with the back power switch in the on position) for 10+ seconds till you hear multiple beeps. Once the reset is done, when you power up, the ps3 should auto-detect the HDMI connection. - Ninja
Q) I heard the SGP/HK PS3 set supports NTSC. Can I play it on my TV?
A) If you are using HDTV, you don't need to worry about PAL / NTSC color systems because it only matters if you are using a SDTV. Most if not all SDTV sold in Malaysia support PAL & NTSC- nwk
NTSC consoles refuse to play certain PAL discs when the console is set to use SD output. - vorchiel
http://boardsus.playstation.com/playstatio...read.id=1347414
Q) My new PS3 has only 40GB? How to upgrade the HDD?
A) Here are some guides - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
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The PS3 will format the HDD automatically. If you straightaway upgrade your HDD after purchasing your PS3, then there is no need to do the backup function of files/gamesaves/videos/music from the old HDD. Just pop in the new HDD, format it using the PS3, and if you want to use linux, just repartition it using the PS3 OS before transferring any new files to the new HDD as the repartitioning process wipes all data. Dont worry about the folder structure, they will be autogenerated by PS3 - vorchiel
Q) I bought a 40/80GB set but the HDD is showing less than 40/80GB available space, what happened?
A) Around 12% of PS3 HDD is reserved by the GameOS as system cache.
Here's some rough estimate of usable space:
31/37GB
46/55GB
64/74GB <- 80GB SET
98/111GB
130/149GB
205/232GB
263/298GB
Q) Can PS3 use SATA-2 HDD, is there any difference? can PS3 use 7200rpm?
A) Check out this topic here. "The PS3's controller is SATA150. A SATAII HDD would switch to SATAI capabilities because of backward compatibility. So there would be no difference."
What I do know is, keep the original PS3 HDD with you no matter what because if for some unforseen reason you need to send your PS3 to Sony, you need to have the original PS3 HDD back in the PS3. And if there are any stickers on the HDD, make sure you leave it as it is. - Muchi
Q) I cant get my portable hard disk to be recognized by my 40 GB PS3. Any ideas? I connected both usb plugs already.
A) your external storage devices must be formatted with FAT32 not NTFS. - tot31
Q) Windows can't format bigger than 32GB for FAT32. Help? Can PS3 detect an external USB FAT drive bigger than 32GB?
A) I found a software that can do it (http://files.extremeoverclocking.com/file.php?f=197) - aiman04
Yes, its able to read bigger size HDD as long as its FAT32, im using swissknife (go google) - rx330
Connect your HDD to your PC and install/use swissknife to format it to FAT32 - Ninja
Q) I have test 2 of my 2.5" USB drive formatted using swissknife v3.0 but it still failed. both are 80GB,IDE, FAT32 & single partition. different brand. different casing. any recommendation brand for USB casing?
A) I think it is because of the lack of power. Some USB casing need to use 2 ports to provide sufficient power to the HDD. Or maybe try to use different formatter/partitioner. I used Gparted liveCD to partition & format my 60GB to FAT32 as XP refuses to create a FAT32 partition bigger than 32GB. - vorchiel
Q) The backup utility will keep all your game saves, pictures, videos, songs, but not the XMB, ID settings, etc because they are stored in somekind of a BIOS like memory. Now my understanding is, it will backup the demo games too, but not the purchased ones because of copyright thing? So I need to re-download my purchased games again?
A) The backup utility will backup purchased PSN games & content too. Remember, you can redownload PSN puchases as many times you want through the same PS3. Most PSN purchases can be activated on <= 5 different PS3s.
Q) Does USB hub or card reader works with the 40GB PS3?
A) Yes and tested by forumer redbull_y2k. a DC-powered USB hub is recommended for certain USB devices (e.g rockband setup)
Q) What's the difference between DS3 and 6axis?
A) DS3 is basically an upgraded 6axis controller, it has vibration (for games that support it).
Q) I have a DS2 controller. Can I use on a PS3?
A) Get a PS2-USB controller. Local shops got sell
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You can now use the DS2 as a 2nd controller.
Q) How to reset the 6axis/DS3 controller?
A) Turn off the controller. On the back there is a pin hole use a paper clip and hold it for 5-10 seconds. then attach the usb cable and press the PS/HOME button - monyetbesi
Q) What webcams are compatible with the PS3?
A) For video chats, most USB webcams are supported, including PS2 Eyetoy. For PS3 Eye apps/games, you need the PS3 Eye - snipersnake
Q) Can PS3 able to support USB keyboard and mouse? Imagine if it can support these peripherals, it would be great to play First Person Shooter on PS3.
A) If the programmers program their PS3 game to support KB+M, then yes, you can use it to game. Currently, only UT3 offer this support. An alternative will be the [FragFX Controller]. google for reviews and impressions. IINM, forumer [lksing78] has this controller.
Q) Can i ask how to sync my bt headset with the ps3?
A) Grab your BT headset manual and do what the headset tells you to do to get it in "Sync Mode". Go to your PS3 XMB - Accessories - Register BT device - BT Headset.
if you threw away the manual - google is your friend. * - from a google cache of forums.gametrailers.com
Q) Can you give me links to bluetooth wireless headsets that is compatible with the ps3?
A) Refer here - vorchiel
Q) Can i use US dualshock 3 on a SG set?
A) Accessories have no region-lock - you can use it.
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XMB
Q) I need some help with the ps3 internet settings (port forwarding, NAT & DMZ settings). Help?
A) Here's a good guide, here and here
Try setting the MTU setting to 1364 on both the router and the PS3. A few have reported more stable connections at MTU 1364.
Q) What router should I get for PSN?
A) Join the discussion about routers here
Q) I've heard of Folding@Home on the PS3. How can I contribute?
A) Read more here and here.
Q) Where to find user created themes?
A) http://www.allps3themes.com/
http://www.psu.com/themes.php
http://www.ps3-themes.com/
make a folder name "PS3", then sub-folder "THEME"
put those .p3t files inside, then install and delete as u see fit
Q) Where to find Malaysian XMB smiley?
A) *done by vorchiel using template from neogaf
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Q) How to turn on/off the information board?
A) Select the information board and press triangle button. The Information Board display the latest news from the playstation site. It will display according to the PS3 region set. For example, a HK set will only display news from asia.playstation.com.hk
Q) Why doesnt the console seem to be able to detect the media stored in my thumbdrive?
A) On menu highlight thumbdrive then press triangle button ("Display All" function) - Microsuck_360
Q) What is this i hear about the Earth Visualizer?
A) Press square while playing a song, press it three times to view it.
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PSN
Q) I just got a PS3. What should I do 1st?
A) set up different accounts for different playstation stores (jpn, us, eu) and download demos to play with.
let everyone know your main PSN id so we can add you - ihatemyguts
Q) What is everyone playing now? What is the everyone's PSNID?
A) Check out the PlayStation Network Community thread. Note that currently the XMB has a max limit of 50 friendlist.
Q) Why do gamers setup so many different PSN account?
A) Actually to play online games, 1 main PSN account is enough (recommend set a US account). Some of us like to use different country PSN to get access to the various demos/trailers offered. We can register for PSN Malaysia ID at the moment but PSN MY Store is coming soon (end of 2008)
How to Register PlayStation®Network
Q) How to access the different PSN Stores (US,EU,JP,Asian,etc) ?
A) Create a new user in your PS3, then when registering for PSN, choose MY, US, UK, JP, SGP, HK, AUZ, etc. as country. You'll need a new email address and an address with postcode of that country. Either enter a random address or google to find one.
Create a new user (leftmost column in xmb), then sign in normally on the PSN column (2nd from right i think)
1 user (local account on ps3) can only associate with 1 psn id
1 ps3 can have up to 12users (or 16?) - vorchiel
Q) Can I create PSNID account using PC ?
A) Yes, you can register and create your PSN ID using your PC (no PS3 needed) at the following site:
http://store.playstation.com/game/index.vm - Ninja
Q) I don't understand JPN, but I wish to download the JPN store demos. Help?
A) Refer here to create a JPN PSNID.
Q) The PSN d/load speed is very slow. How to install demos/game patches using PC aka proxy method?
A) After FW 2.35, the proxy method is limited to d/loading same game link. Install the CF3B5's PS3.Proxyserver GUI on your PC, refer here & here- Ninja, aiman04
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Q) How to download PS3 Games patch lightning fast?
A) Refer to the following tutorial: http://ottomatteseo.blogspot.com/2008/11/f...ames-patch.html
Q) Do we have to pay for online gaming on PSN?
A) All online gaming for PS3 games is currently free. However, if they release a MMORPGs games in the future, they may charge a subscription for MMO games.
Q) I'm trying to purchase games and add-ons off the US PSN Store using my credit card. Help?
Short answer -
For US store - use
UPDATE - it seems Entropay is now working again on US PSN store! - discuss Entropay here
For Asian Store (SGP/HK) - use M'sian credit card.
Q) Tell me more about PSN prepaid cards.
A) Right now, you can purchase JP/SGP/HK/TWN PSN prepaid wallet cards. It works similar to mobile prepaid cards. play-asia or ebay has some for sale.
note: currently the HK cards are available at p-a
SGP cards are hard to find, even in SGP, most gameshops don't carry them.
JPN cards/tickets buy from ebay, very quick can get codes.
US cards are available - buy from ebay.
Q) I've read PSN DLC content is region-locked to the game region. It this true?
A) Yes, free or paid DLC(expansions/game-addons) are region specific. For example, a US version version of Warhawk only works with US version of WH expansion packs. Another example, Asian Folklore only works with DLC packs from Asian PSN store. Keep this in mind before buying any DLC!
Q) I've read most PSN games/content can be shared/activated between 5 different PS3s. How?
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MISC.
Q) I'm playing ___ game and my PS3 hang! Help?
A) Sometimes certain programming bugs/glitches can hang the PS3 OS. No choice but to reset (either soft reset and go back to XMB or do hard reset). Try to note down when and what trigger the hang.
Q) I'm playing ___ game and my PS3 hang! Help?
A) In any case of freeze/lockups, eject any disc in the drive first before attempting to restart the system. This will lower the risk of the BD drive problem [citation needed] - vorchiel
Q) I get a XMB error msg. What does it mean?
A) Refer here - slickz
Q) My ps3 stopped detecting discs. How to fix?
A) If you have a SGP set and have a way to send it to Sony SGP Service Center for RMA, they'll honor the warranty.
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TheUndead's PS3 Warranty Claim FAQs for Singapore PS3 sets» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «
forumer snipersnake share's his RMA procedureSome gamers here have tried a non-official fix involving the spare-part [SONY PlayStation3 PS3 KES-400AAA Laser]. Contact forumer [tot31] or [bernard moh], they have experience in such repairs. These are the threads discussing the problem - here & here
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Q) What is the PS3 automatic Fan test/Internal Dust cleansing method?
A) http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/672677
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Q) Install Linux - which one is the best version?
A) I am using Ubuntu, runs perfectly on my PS3 with 1080p - babyk
installing linux to ps3 wont brick it,ps3 is designed to allow installation of linux...u can try ubuntu 7.10 with ps3 installation capability - nate_nightroad
Linux on PS3 Thread
Q) What is the different between 1080i and 1080p screen resolution?
A) i or p is done by hardware
i=interlace
p=progressive
1080 is the vertical resolution and horizontal might differs from 1 screen to another depending on your hardware - babyk
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This post has been edited by acougan: Jan 21 2009, 05:08 PM