Where and how to chip PS2?

Hey guys, this is my first post here but I've got to say I like this forum a lot. Where have you all been hiding for so long?

I've got a slim PS2. I'm not sure what version/model but I don't think it's relevant, if it is I'll find out. I'm looking at putting a modchip in my console so I can play backups and also try to do some experiments with custom firmware and stuff like that. I think I've missed out on the window of opportunity of getting someone to do it for me, so it looks like I'll have to do it myself.

Those who have chipped PS2s, what chip would you recommend, where could I get it from (preferably somewhere in Australia, overseas doesn't really matter though) and who did the install? I have no idea how to install one of these chips (even if comes with instructions) so that's the segment I'm worried about personally. Would any electrician do the install if I had instructions and paid labour?

Thanks guys, I look forward to having a look around here, there's loads of interesting content.
Also I did use the search bar but couldn't find anything of relation. If there's an FAQ or Tutorial somewhere that mentions everything I need to know please feel free to close this.

 

PS2 internal region generally isn't important while playing a game.
Boring stuff like whether the settings menus display in NTSC or PAL, and what languages it offers.

I've heard later slim models block certain third party memory cards. Can't speak from experience.

 

There's no such thing as custom firmware for PS2; however your options are:
-Soft modding: install FMCB and use OPL to load backups
-Modchip: install modchip of your choice.

You'll hear different suggestions as to which modchip is better (some people will also suggest you don't go the modchip route); I can't remember for sure, but I guess some are better for some particular PS2 models, so I'd suggest you take a look at which model you have.
Also, depending on the model, you may be able to load games from the hard drive (all non-slim models) which is a plus, or you can load games from a computer in your network (ie. ethernet), but AFAIK this is only possible using something like OPL, and not supported by the modchip itself.

 

It's really all about preference. I like the modchip route due to its simplicity after the chips install. Well, i learned from trial and error (Hard way) so its gotten easy really quick for me, though i dont touch SCPH-79001s or 90001s due to the points on the legs on the IC. If your new to soldering and really want to give it a shot, try to get a V5-V7 ps2. As for a chip I personally prefer a Modbo 4.0. I would say Matrix Infinity Green Dots but the matrix team stopped making them a long time ago. I sell Modbo 4.0 v1.93's if you need one, i had a customer from Australia get a chip from me in just over a week

 

Thanks for the replies guys, I'll check my exact console model tomorrow after work and report back.

I'm not too keen on soldering. I've done it before (changed LEDs in 360 controllers a few times) but I'm not really confident. Will an electrician or appliance repair shop do soldering if I pay a fee/labour?

Anyhow I'll take a look at the model tomorrow. I might end up trying to buy a cheap PS2 and messing around with that. It'll all depend on the model I guess.

 

Extremely unlikely to do something as fine as the PS2.

 

Depending on where in the world you are, you'll probably find guys here that you could send your console to and they'll provide the chip/do the work for you at an agreed price. Have a look at the For Sale forum.

I looked in to chipping my PS2 but the complexity of soldering involved put me off, so I went down the softmod route. Allows me to play backups and isn't restricted to a single console which is handy.

 

Soft modding looks alright I'll have to look into that. I'm off to do some googling ha. As for the model of the PS2 I'm still in the dark. I appreciate all of the advice.

One last question, is bricking a PS2 possible through softmodding?
If so is it easily done or would I have to mess up pretty bad to do anything?

 

Not it is not possible to brick your ps2 through softmodding because the softmod is installed on the memory card rather than flashing any important parts of the console

 

A good chip is powerful in ways a softmod by itself just doesn't compare. Direct boot legitimate PS1 imports without disc swap or trick the lid sensor!

Yet less reliable, difficult install mostly. Laser wear risk could happen from stuff like bad burned games.

 

If you have a v12-v13 and you really want a chip, I recommend installing a Modbo760. It's easier to work with this chip because it's partly a quicksolder install for v12 or v13 slim PSTwo. You'll get around 10 easy solder points. It's basically a Modbo 4.0 1.93 but in a package specifically for those revisions. Be aware that v12 PSTwo require a laser protection mechanism or else you'll burn it off really quickly. It's not really related to the modchip itself but rather how the v12 handles a modchip.

I have a USA v12 with modbo760 installed and FMCB and they coexist just fine. No trouble there. I also installed one of these : http://www.maxdiypower.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=80

I'm pretty sure it's v12 only since the necessary connections for IDE are not available in later revision. With this I can load games much faster off a HDD like a fat PS2.

Of course if you're not comfortable soldering and if you don't plan on playing PS1 games then go for softmod.

 

You'll find most, if not all, of what you need to know here - http://bootleg.sksapps.com/tutorials/fmcb/index.php

I did the gameswap method on my fat console - http://bootleg.sksapps.com/tutorials/fmcb/swap.php

There's loads of videos on youtube too showing how it's done.

 

If you decide to install a modchip I have some original matrix infinities, dms4 pro's, crystal chip 1.0's, Mar's pro's and even some modbo 4.0's left.

 

Offering them for sale in a thread is just the same as started a for sale thread. Just not as easy for a mod to spot.

 

K, I'll edit my post. The 50 post count is a killer. I'm on here everyday reading. I just dont post alot.

 

Beware of the Mini Mods.

 

What's a mini mod?

 

Hmmm how can I put this , basically a rent a cop to the police , basically someone wanting to be someone they are not , basically someone trying to do the moderators job.

 

ah I see.

 

Saying that is not allowed in these forums. ah I see will get you banned , I am pming a moderator now.