If you feel like reading then read. If not, then skim it. This guide below puts your psp to the ultimate use.


READ: This is ULTIMATE FAQ v0.1, it is not completed. We ask you to help us complete it by replying below (especially in the emulators section). We will be updaing it very frequently but we wanted to publish it now before it was finished so that everyone can read it.

Please post any additions that you have, as well as any errors such as corrections, bad links, spelling, or anything you think should be added. If you know of a guide that provides more/better info, please post it so that we can add it.

Once your comment is added, we will delete your post. This will help us keep track of what has been added and what hasn't. Thanks!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. FORUM POLICY

II. INSTALLING HOMEBREW ON YOUR PSP
1) Introduction
2) Installing Homebrew on a PSP with v1.0 Firmware
3) Installing Homebrew on a PSP with v1.5 Firmware using the KXploit method A
4) Installing Homebrew on a PSP with v1.5 Firmware using other methods (added 6/26/2005)
5) Installing Hombrew on a PSP using Pre-made Eboot files/folders (added 7/12/05)

III. EMULATOR GUIDE
1) Introduction
2) GameBoy/GameBoy Color
3) GBA
4) MAME
5) MSX
6) Neo Geo
7) NES
8) PC Engine (Turbo Grafx 16)
9) PSPE (PSP on PC)
10) Sega Genesis/Megadrive
11) Sega Master System
12) SNES
13) Wonderswan

IV. FAQ / Tips
1) Introduction
2) Firmware (updated 6/26/2005)
3) Emulators
4) Homebrew Games
5) Hacks (KXploit, etc) (updated 6/26/2005)
6) Misc.

V. Credits

VI. Version History (updated 6/26/2005)

INSTALLING HOMEBREW ON YOUR PSP

1) Introduction

The very first thing you need to do is find out what firmware version your PSP is. To do this, turn on your PSP, go to Settings > System Settings > System Information and click "X". It will say "System Software Version" 1.0, 1.5, 1.51, or 1.52. If your PSP is firmware version 1.0 or 1.5, you can run homebrew games, emulators, and applications. If your PSP is firmware version 1.51 or 1.52, you cannot run any homebrew.

2) Installing Homebrew on a PSP with v1.0 Firmware

Installing Home-brew applications is actually a whole lot easier then it sounds. For the most part, it's all just "Drag & Drop." Although some emulators may require you to rename ROMs, or place them in specific folders, but you can read about that in the Emulators section.

Plug your PSP into your computer via a USB cable. Turn on your PSP and navigate to Settings > USB Connection and press "X". Your computer should then automatically detect the PSP. Go to My Computer > Removable Disk (F (where F is the drive letter your computer assigns to the PSP). You are now browsing the contents of your memory stick. You should see a folder named PSP. Open the PSP folder and create a GAME folder (if there isn't one already). You will then need to create a folder for each homebrew emulator or game you want to put on your memory card. [picture] Some homebrew emulators and games come zipped in folders, in that case you just have to drag the folder into PSP/GAME/.

3) Installing Homebrew on a PSP with v1.5 Firmware using the KXploit method A

If you want to skip all the do-it-yourself and download a pre-converted pack of emulators, you can get it from pm me. Simply extract all the folders in that zip, connect your PSP via USB, and put them in PSP/GAME/. Note that these emulators are updated very frequently, and when new versions come out you will still be stuck with the older ones. Do not post on our forums asking for people to convert them for you, you can read on to learn to do it yourself, it's quite simple. You can also find Pre-Made EBOOT files for the 1.5 KXploit from pm’ing me.

First you need to download KXploit from from pm’ing me (get the latest version). Open the zip file and extract KXploitTool-0.3-Setup.exe. Run this file and install it in your directory of choice. You will then be prompted to reboot, so reboot your machine.

After you have rebooted, download whatever homebrew you want to install and unzip it to your desktop or wherever. Then connect your PSP to your computer via USB, turn on your PSP, and navigate to Settings > USB Connection and press "X". Your computer should then automatically detect the PSP.

On your computer click the KXploit Tool 0.3 shortcut and you will be brought to this menu [picture]. In the "Name" field, type a descriptive name of the homebrew emu/game you want to convert (ex: "SNES"). Next click the "..." button next to the "PBP File" field and navigate to the EBOOT.PBP file in the folder of the homebrew you just downloaded [picture]. In the "PSP Unit" field select the drive letter of your PSP [picture]. Now press "Generate Files" and the program will install the files onto the memory stick. Make sure that all necessary files included with the Homebrew Emulator or Game are in the second folder (the one WITHOUT the %). Put all ROMs in the second folder (the one WITHOUT the %) as well.

For a tutorial on Method B, please read the tutorial-en.pdf included in kxploit_1.5_psp-dev.rar.

4) Installing Homebrew on a PSP with v1.5 Firmware using other methods (added 6/26/2005)

1) Go to this thread and download the newest version of the Sei tool. (or get PBP Setting or PBP Easy Installer from our files section)
2) Plug your PSP in to your computer via USB
3) On your PSP go to USB Connection
4) On your PC, double click SeiPSPTool.exe
5) In the "Name" field type the folder name you want for your emulator (on your psp). NOTE: Some emulators require specifically named folders, check the above.
6) Click "..." and navagate to the EBOOT.PBP of the emulator or game you wish to put on your PSP
7) Click the dropdown menu next to "PSP Unit" and navagate to the drive letter your computer assigned to the PSP
8) If you want to use a custom Icon, navagate to that
9) Click generate and it will automatically install the files on to your PSP. Now just put ROMs in the folder WITHOUT the "%" on your PSP.

5) Installing Hombrew on a PSP using Pre-made Eboot files/folders (added 7/12/05)

1.) Go to either Legion120802's Pre-made eboot thread or The individual user made eboots
-I recommend Legion120802's thread since it is the most up-to-date thread.
2.) Search for the hombrew game/application that you desire
3.) Once you have located the hombrew, download it
4.) Once downloaded, extract the contents (WinRAR is sometimes required).
5.) Two folders should appear (one with a % sign and one without)
6.) Copy these two folders to your PSP/Game directory
7.) If you have roms to install, scroll down to view the install directory for each emulator
8.) Enjoy your hombrew!

III: EMULATOR GUIDE

1) Introduction
There are many Emulators out there for PSP, and they are being updated extremely fast. Here is a little summary of many of the popular ones. Click on any of the Emulator names to go to our File Download section for that Emulator.

2) GameBoy/GameBoy Color
RIN: This is a GameBoy/GameBoy Color Emulator for PSP by Mr. Mirakichi.
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
ROM File Extension: .GB, .GBC
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button: L Trigger
Additional Information: Putting ROMs in subfolder ROMS works well

3) GBA
VBA: This is a GameBoy Advance Emulator for PSP.
Folder: PSP/GAME/VBAPSP
ROM File Extension: .GBA
Zip Support: NO
Menu Button:
Additional Information: Your folders must be named VBAPSP% and VBAPSP (just VBAPSP with 1.0).Rename your UNZIPPED (not compressed) ROM to ROM.GBA and place it into the VBAPSP folder.A seperate file selector with instructions can be found in our files section.

4) MAME
M.A.M.E.: This is a MAME Emulator for PSP by TMK.
Folder: PSP/GAME/MAME
ROM File Extension: .ZIP
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button:
Additional Information: Zipped ROMs go in "ROMS" subfolder, not KXploit friendly. For more info see this thread.
xMAME: This is a MAME Emulator for PSP.
Folder: PSP/GAME/MAME/
ROM File Extension: .ZIP
Zip Support: MUST be ZIPPED
Menu Button:
Additional Information: Operating Details, Not KXploit friendly

5) MSX
fMSX: This is a MSX Emulator for PSP by Osakana.
Folder: PSP/GAME/MSX
ROM File Extension: .ROM for Cartridge, .DSK for Disks
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button: L Trigger
Additional Information: Place Bios files in the PSP/GAME/MSX/BIOS/
HITBIT: This is a MSX Emulator for PSP by Mariko.
Folder: PSP/GAME/
ROM File Extension:
Zip Support:
Menu Button:
Additional Information:

6) Neo Geo
ngPSP: This is a Neo Geo Emulator for PSP by NeXis2600
Folder: PSP/GAME/NGPSP
ROM File Extension: .NGP
Zip Support: NO
Menu Button:
Additional Information: Additional needed folders: "Battery", "State", "Roms". Select button for Menu.
Neo Geo CD: This is a Neo Geo CD Emulator for PSP by Matinez Fabrice and Fosters
Folder: PSP/GAME/NEOCD
ROM File Extension:
Zip Support:
Menu Button: L Trigger
Additional Information: Left trigger = Exit, Archive all files in your NEOGEO CD to zip file named "neocd.zip". Get NEOGEO CD BIOS.
/PSP/GAME/NEOCD
+ EBOOT.PBP
+ STARTUP.BIN
+ loading.bmp
+ NEOCD.BIN (BIOS)
+ NEOCD.ZIP (CD contents)

7) NES
NesterJ: This is a Nintendo Emulator for PSP by Ruka.
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .NES
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button: L Trigger
Additional Information: ROMs can go anywhere in the NesterJ folder or sub folders.

8) PC Engine (Turbo Grafx 16)
PCEP: This is a Turbo Grafx 16 Emulator for PSP.
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .PCE
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button: L Trigger
Additional Information: Supports TG-16/PCE and 2-disk roms like street fighter 2

9) PSPE (PSP on PC)
PSPE: This is a PSP v1.0 Emulator for the PC. This Emulates a PSP with v1.0 Firmware on the PC. Developers use it to test their code.

10) Sega Genesis/Megadrive
PSPGenesis: This is a Genesis Emulator for PSP by Sougen
Folder: PSP/GAME/PSPGenesis
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .BIN and .SMD
Zip Support: NO
Menu Button: Select
Additional Information: Place ROMs anywhere, You'll not be able to use this emulator if you don't add the 'system.fnt' file on the memory stick with the EBOOT.
Generator: This is a Genesis Emulator for PSP by Osakana.
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
Accepted ROM File Extensions: must be GEN.BIN
Zip Support: NO
Menu Button: No Menu
Additional Information: To exit back to PSP menu press start+select
Megadrive: This is a Genesis Emulator for PSP by Kamisama
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .SMD and .BIN (only when inside a .ZIP)
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button: Select
Additional Information:

11) SMS
SMS This is a Sega Master System Emulator for PSP by Yoshihiro.
Folder: PSP/GAME/SMS
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .SMS, .GG
Zip Support: NO
Menu Button: Triangle
Additional Information: SELECT: Sound toggle, L&R: Quit. ROms must go in a folder named "ROMS" inside the SMS folder.

12) SNES
Snes9x: This is a Super Nintendo Emulator for PSP by Bifuteki, Yoshihiro, "Y", and "J".
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .SMC and .SFC
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button: Stick Left
Additional Information:

13) Wonderswan
Cygne: This is a Wonderswan Emulator for PSP by REi
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .WS and .WSC
Zip Support: YES
Menu Button: Select
Additional Information: has fullscreen and key config options

PSwan: This is another Wonderswan Emulator for PSP
Folder: PSP/GAME/*ANY*
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .ws, .wsc
Zip Support: No
Menu Button: R Trigger
Notes: Only options are for sound on/off.

14) Amiga 500
UAE: Amiga 500 Emulator for PSP
Folder: PSP/GAME/PSPUAE
Accepted ROM File Extensions: .ROM
Zip Support: NO
Menu Button:
Notes: Copy an amiga ADF disk file as /PSP/GAME/PSPUAE/DF0.ADF
Then, you need to put the Amiga Kickstart 1.3 KICK.ROM file into /PSP/GAME/PSPUAE (Make sure the filename is KICK.ROM)

IV. FAQ / Tips

1) Introduction
Before you post read this FAQ! Many questions are answered here, and it will be updated all the time.


2) Firmware

What is this Firmware you speak of?
Firmware is what you could call the PSP's Operating System (like Windows on a computer). The PSP's Firmware is stored on what's called a "Flash Disk." Now, when Sony finds bugs, or flaws in the OS, they release new updates and upgrades to the firmware. At the time of me writing this, there are currently four different firmware versions. Version 1.0, Version 1.5, Version 1.51, and Version 1.52.

So how do I know which Firmware I have?
Just goto the PSP's main menu, then goto Settings > System Settings > System Information. Then you should see where it says: System Software Version x.xx (x.xx is your Firmware version).

Can I run homebrew on a 1.0 or 1.50 PSP?
Yes. Homebrew will run on 1.0's with no hacks or exploits, and on 1.50 with hacks or exploits like Swaploit or KXploit.

Can I run homebrew on a 1.51 or 1.52 PSP?
No.

Why can't I run homebrew on 1.51 or 1.52?
Well to explain that, I'll explain the difference between the firmwares that stops Homebrew.

Firmware 1.0
This firmware allowed any application to run without a Geniune Sony Digital Signature. It was a very lax security firmware. Only Japanese PSPs made before March 2005 have 1.0 firmware.

Firmware 1.50
This firmware can execute applications through a hotswap technique called KXploit developed by the guys over at PSP-Dev. Read more about it below.

Firmware 1.51 & 1.52
This firmware has an authentication process, and additional security, that makes sure any process running has a Genuine Sony Digital Signature. This is what is stopping homebrewed apps from booting.

Why not just take a digital signature from [INSERT GAME HERE]?
The signatures are dynamically signed, so that means, when we run the PSP with the stolen signature, the PSP will tell thats its different and refuse to run it.

When will 1.51+ be hacked? Can I downgrade?
Downgrading firmware is not possible at this moment. And without a time machine or crystal ball there's no way of knowing when newer firmwares will be cracked. Be patient and keep checking this site for updates. For those of you who keep asking - the current 1.0 Firmware dump CANNOT be used to flash your 1.5 into a 1.0. It is missing certain critical files which are hidden and inaccessible by current dumping software.

What firmware version of PSPs are they currently selling in stores in America?
Currently, American PSPs are still shipping with 1.52 firmware installed.

Where can i find the 1.5 JAP Firmware download? (added 6/26/05)
We have located a new link. To download 1.5 JAP Firmware, pm me

Where can I find the 2.0 JAP firmware downoad?
Please download it on Sony's offical website:
Note: If you have any questions, please read this thread:
3) Emulators

What is an emulator?
From Google Define: An Emulator (or "Emu") is "hardware and/or Software that allows a computer or other device to act as if it was another type of machine. For example Emulators are used on computers to emulate Games consoles such as the N64, MegaDrive and PlayStation."

Can I have multiple emus/programs on my memory stick(s)?
Yes, just create separate identical folders on both memory sticks for each emulator or program.

Is running emulators at 333mhz safe?
This isn't necessarily overclocking the PSP since the CPU *IS* a 333mhz CPU. However it will be quite a drain on your battery, which is why the current PSP UMD games do not utilize this CPU speed. So far there have been NO reports of 333mhz harming the PSP, but this option is relatively new so still use at your own risk.

There are so many different emulators, which ones are the best?
Most systems now have multiple emulators for them on PSP, below are my personal recommendations for each system I have tried:
NES: NesterJ is definitely the best NES emulator.
Mega Drive / Genesis: This goes to Megadrive for PSP in my opinion.
Snes: This goes to the "Y" series of Snes9x (Snes9XY##)
GameBoy: There is only one but it is excellent and that is RIN.
PC Engine / Turbo Grafx 16: PCE for PSP for its great speed and wealth of features.

Why is the emulator game playing so slow?!?
First, they are running purely on the PSP's processor. There is no graphics acceleration like on the official UMD games for PSP. Second, these emulators are new and hence not fully living up to their potential and some have quite a few bugs. However, most emus have settings which can compensate for the slowdown. Enabling Frameskip (3-4 frames), increasing the CPU speed (266-333mhz), and turning off the sound or lowering the quality of sound is sometimes necessary in order for some games to run at a decent speed. It will vary game to game - experiment and see what works best for you!!

When will an emulator for [GAME SYSTEM] come out? Is it possible???
Unfortunately, we're not psychic, so your guess is probably as good as ours. If you want to jump into porting or making an emulator, you can get started here. Currently there are no emulators for many systems. There is no point in posting threads requesting emulators such as Nintendo64, GBA, or PSX. When 16-bit emulators such as SNES get running at full speed, than you can expect to see emulators for the following generation of consoles. Note: Any post asking why an emulator hasn't been made, or when it will be, will be deleted. Repeat offenders will be temporarily banned.


4) Homebrew Games

I can't get Doom to work! It doesn't detect the WAD / locks up / [insert problem here]!
1. Download this file: DOOM-PSP Ready Made EBOOT.PBP Files
2. Extract the MS1 EBOOT.PBP to your memory stick to a folder named "DOOM-PSP%" in the PSP\GAME folder.
3. Extract the MS2 EBOOT to PSP\GAME\DOOM-PSP\
4. DOOM1.WAD is NOT included, download the main DOOM-PSP package from this link. Extract DOOM1.WAD and put it in the "DOOM-PSP" (No %) folder.
5. Create a subfolder within the "DOOM-PSP" folder on MS2 called "SAVE".
6. Start the program!

I can't navagate through the Menu, did my game freeze?
Probably not. Use the analog stick, not the D-Pad.


5) Hacks (KXploit, etc)

Can I find pre-made converted emulators for the KXploit on my 1.5?
Yes, if you search the forums you should be able to find many of them, there should also be "packs" of them uploaded to the files section under the "Firmware Hacks" section often. Do not post for people to make files for you, please find ones that are available or learn to do it yourself.

Can I hide the "Corrupted Data" icons on the PSP?
Yes. Simply load all the folders WITHOUT the "%" onto your PSP first, then all the ones with the "%" after. Your PSP will display them in the reverse order they were loaded, so all the Homebrew will be at the top of the list, and all the corrupted ones at the bottom.

I've got a Mac, are there any programs to make my own EBOOTs?

Swaploit for Mac
KXploit for Mac

Or you can download a pre-made EBOOT.PBP file set from this thread. This list will be updated frequently. Please contribute to this thread if you have pre-compiled EBOOT's for a program not listed.

How do I change my PSP Background/Obtain the originals?
Read this post.

Me and a friend only have 1 copy of a game but we want to play multiplayer. Can we? (added 6/26/05)
Yes. Start up an ad hoc multiplayer game and set the time for unlimited. On the first PSP. Eject the UMD disc and choose NO when it asks if you would like to quit. On the first PSP. Put the UMD in another PSP and start multiplayer gaming with your friends. Reapeat previous previous 2 steps for as many players as you want in the game.

How do I create musical eboots?
Read this post

Official Firmware 2.0 Addition

IMPORTANT:

"CAUTION: This update is only for customers who obtained PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) for Japan which model number is PSP-1000 or PSP-1000 K. Upon completion of preparing, we will announce update information for the other countries/areas customers via SCE Group Web Site or other channels . For theses customers who obtained PSP® in the other countries/areas, please DO NOT update PSP® through this web site."

Table Of Contents

Section 1: Firmware 2.0's componets/ad-ons.
This section will describe to you all of the additions that 2.0 gives your PSP.

Section 2: FAQ's regarding Firmware 2.0
This section will include all of the questions and answers that are frequently asked within the forums and general need-to-know questions/answers

Section 3: Misc. information
This section will cover all of the information that does not fit in the above sections (if any)




1.) Firmware 2.0's components/ad-ons.

PSP System Software version 2.0 Update – pm me






WARNING: HOMEBREWS/LOADERS CAN'T BE EXECUTED ON PSP WITH SYSTEM VERSION 1.51 OR ABOVE, AND THERE IS NO SOLUTION TO DOWNGRADE THE SYSTEM VERSION YET. Make sure you REALLY know this fact and WANT to upgrade to Version 2.0!!!


-- PSP System Software version 2.0 Update --


Main function updated in system software version 2.0
- Network
Internet browser added
* Macromedia Flash is not supported. A part of the web pages might not be displayed correctly
* The startup of the internet browser can be limited.

- Video
Jump function added (UMD Video & UMD Music)
A-B repeat function added (UMD Video & UMD Music & videos stored in Memory sticks)
"4:3 mode" added to Video mode (videos stored in Memory sticks)
Sound mute function added (videos stored in Memory sticks)
MP4 (AVC) format playback support added (videos stored in Memory sticks)

-Music
Can accept music tracks in Atract3 Plus format from "Sonicstage" under version 3.2 (now for pre-order)
MP4 (AAC) & Wave (Linear PCM) format playback support added (music stored in Memory sticks)

- Photo
Wallpaper function added
Image receiving function added
TIFF, GIF, PNG, BMP format supported

- Settings
"Korean language" added to "System settings" -> "System language"
"Character set" added to "System settings"
"Theme settings" added
"Internet browser startup limit" added to "Security settings"
"WPA-PSK (TKIP)" added to security method in "Network settings"
Keyboard now support web input.
* All the setting before the upgrade will be preserved.


Update Instructions:
- Connect your PSP to your PC via USB cable.
- Goto the directory /PSP/GAME/ in your memory stick.
- Create a sub-directory named "UPDATE" (MUST be uppercase)
- Copy the downloaded PBP file into this directory.
- Rename it to "EBOOT.PBP" (MUST be uppercase too)
- Disconnect the PSP from the PC
- In PSP's XMB interface, goto "Game" -> "Memory Stick"
- Browse to the Update file and start it.

Note: You need to plug in the AC adapter, and have at least 50% remaining power in order to proceed with the upgrade, otherwise the program will be terminated before starting to upgrade. DO NOT unplug anything during the upgrade process, or you might brick your PSP immediately.

2.) FAQ's regarding Firmware 2.0

Important: When looking for a specific question, use the Search/Find command in your Internet browser, thank you

Quick Guide:

General Firmware Questions:

1.) Where can I get the 2.0 update?
1.1) It will not read the update file correctly, what do I do?
2.) When does the US 2.0 update come out?/Will it work on my JP 2.0 update?
3.) Will the Japanese 2.0 work on a US PSP?
4.) Is 1.52 required to successfully update?
5.) How large is the file?
6.) Am I able to play hombrew on 2.0?
7.) When will hombrew be playble on 2.0?
8.) Are people working on cracking 2.0?
9.) Can't we just open 2.0 eboot up with a hex editor and edit it?
10.) Will buttons be switched when I upgrade on a US PSP with JP firmware?
11.) What is WPA?
12.) Are there any sideaffects of having 2.0 JP on a US psp?
13.) When the US 2.0 comes out, can I upgrade to it from the JP 2.0?
14.) After I update it, can I delete the 2.0 JP firmware from my memory stick?
15.) Can you update from JP 2.0 to US 2.1 should such and update become available?
16.) Do the buttons get switched (O-X) when I upgrade from US to JP firmware?

Networking/Browser Questions:

1.) Does the new 2.0 browser support flash?
2.) When will the browser support flash?
3.) Can I download media via the web browser?
4.) How do you input text with the browser?
5.) What language is the browser in?
6.) When does P-TV come out in the US?
7.) Can I browser any website?
8.) Can I use AIM/MSN online chat programs?
9.) What is P-TV?
10.) Does the browser support Java?
11.) Do I need a wireless router to access/use the internet browser?
12.) What else is required to use the PSP web browser?
13.) When browsing, is there any chance of me getting a virus/spyware on PSP?
14.) When browsing the speed seems slow, what do I do?
15.) I am getting a memory error on the Web browser, what do I do?
16.) Can i connect online using WPA on my games (ie: Wipeout Pure)
17.) Is there a way to transfer files through the wireless connection?
18.) Does Yahoo Mail work? Does Gmail?
19.) What are the buttons/controls for the web browser?
20.) How do I close tabs?
21.) Every time i try to download a file it says there isn't enough space to do so, but i have checked and i do have enough space ! What should i do ?
22.) Files that i download do not want to go into the directory i specify ... what should i do ?
23.) What are the viewing resolutions/sizes for the 2.0 browser?
24.) Are we able to choose where to download the files that we download?

Media playability Questions:

1.) How do I use the wallpaper feature?
2.) Is the wallpaper feature like that of PSPersonalize?
3.) If I take out my memory stick, will the background still be there?
4.) What's the maximum size for a background image?
5.) Am I able to send pictures to my friend's PSP?
6.) How do I send pictures to my friend's PSP?
7.) What is AVC Format?
8.) How does the UMD region code work now with the 2.0 upgrade?
9.) Does AVC support full-screen?
10.) Where do I put h.264 videos?
11.) If I want to send pictures to a friend do they have to have a 2.0 also?
12.) How do I sign up for P-TV?
13.) Does 2.0 support movable backgrounds/animated backgrounds?


General Firmware Questions/Answers:
(Note: Questions are in Blue and Answers are in Red.)

1.) Where can I get the Firmware 2.0 Update?
To get the update for 2.0, please download it [Here]

1.1) It will not read the update file correctly, what do I do?
To successfully install 2.0, you must move the eboot file into your Game/UPDATE folder. If you do not have this folder already, please create it. NOTE: Be sure to have it in all caps for it to work.
(If this still occurs, back-up your data and reformat your memory stick, then try it)

2.) When does the US 2.0 update come out?/Will it work on my JP 2.0 update?
The US firmware 2.0 update is set to be released 8/12/05. This update will work on your JP 2.0 as Sony has stated: Sony recommends that if you have an American PSP with the Japanese 2.0 firmware to change to this one because the Japanese software on an American PSP is said to void your warranty

3.) Will the Japanese 2.0 work on a US PSP?
Yes, the Japanese firmware 2.0 update will work on a US PSP.

UPDATE: Sony has posted the following on their site (Thus telling US owners not to upgrade to 2.0 JP):
Quote:
CAUTION: This update is only for customers who obtained PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) for Japan which model number is PSP-1000 or PSP-1000 K. Upon completion of preparing, we will announce update information for the other countries/areas customers via SCE Group Web Site or other channels . For theses customers who obtained PSP® in the other countries/areas, please DO NOT update PSP® through this web site.



4.) Is 1.52 required to successfully update?
No, firmware 1.52 is not required to update to 2.00. 2.00 contains all the previous updates so this is not a problem

5.) How large is the file?
The file size for the update eboot is: 16.3 mbs

6.) Am I able to play hombrew on 2.0?
No

7.) When will hombrew be playble on 2.0?
At the current time, it is hard to tell, it could be never. 2.0 may never be able to run hombrew, but that is my personal opinion. Here is an excert from IGN:
Quote:
Originally Posted by IGN
"One extra note not in the official documents -- the PSP is more secure than ever against hacker and homebrew application support. Sony did not announce this officially, and we would never have known about it unless coders hadn't found the new chunks of added security code. 'Mr A' of MaxConsole.net reports that the PSP's security file has been significantly changed in the update, locking out all but the most determined hackers -- in order to play homemade programs on the PSP, coders would have to decrypt the security code, and in order to get the code to decrypt, they would have to have a cracked program to run on the system."



8.) Are people working on cracking 2.0?
At the current time we are unsure of any groups working on this, but I am sure that 2.0 users are constantly trying to find ways to "crack/hack" the firmware.

9.)Can't we just open 2.0 eboot up with a hex editor and edit it?
Theoretically, yes. If someone was to edit the eboot file, there is no idea what the outcome will be. If someone makes one wrong mistake in compiling it, it will brick your PSP, so hex editting it is not recommended. (Update: re-configuring the eboot file corrupts it)

10.) Will buttons be switched when I upgrade on a US PSP with JP firmware?
No

11.) What is WPA?
Version 2.00 now supports WPA ( Wi Fi Protected Access ), a newer format of security for your wireless connection. This will lower the chance of anyone being able to use your internet connection and taking up your bandwidth.

12.) Are there any sideaffects of having 2.0 JP on a US psp?
Yes and no. Using the JP upgrade in no way affects your PSP besides voiding the warranty! This was explained by MalumEnSe: The reason why it could in theory violate your warranty is because if you have a Japanese firmware running, it needs to be sent to SCEJ (That's Sony in Japan) for repair. However Sony has made it clear that SCEJ will NOT ship repaired PSP's outside of Japan, so unless you live in Japan or have a friend that will accept it and send it back to you, you're screwed.

This is a perfect example of why patience is a virtue.

13.) When the US 2.0 comes out, can I upgrade to it from the JP 2.0?
No, you will not be able to go from 2.0 JP-2.0 US

14.) After I update it, can I delete the 2.0 JP firmware from my memory stick?
Yes, you can delete it after you have upgraded it

15.) Can you update from JP 2.0 to US 2.1 should such and update become available?
There is no official word on the US release and/or how it will affect JP 2.0 users. Although, here is what we do know: When the US release is released (if it is 2.0), users will be unable to update their JP 2.0 to the US 2.0. Here is a rumor: When the US release is officially released (if it is 2.1), users who updated to the JP 2.0 will be unable to update to the new firmware (US 2.1).

16.) Do the buttons get switched (O-X) when I upgrade from US to JP firmware?
No they do not, it does not depend on the firmware at the momment


Networking/Browser Questions/Answers:
(Note: Questions are in Blue and Answers are in Red.)

1.) Does the new 2.0 browser support flash?
No

2.) When will the browser support flash?
We are unsure at the momment if the PSP internet browser will support flash or if it is being planed to do so. (future tense)

3.) Can I download media via the web browser?
Yes you can, K[dot]Y has made a nice little guide for users to find out how, please visit [pm me]

4.) How do you input text with the browser?
The new PSP browser uses the PSP's built-in keyboard. There are keyboards being made for the PSP, it is all a matter of time/patience.

5.) What language is the browser in?
From what I have gathered: Whatever language your system is set at.

6.) When does P-TV come out in the US?
We are unsure, but we are assuming it will come out the same time as the 2.0 update comes out in the US

7.) Can I browser any website?
No, you can not browse websites that include flash, but very few websites do this

8.) Can I use AIM/MSN online chat programs?
According to KingofNoobs's faq, yes you can:WebAim works for Aim and mob.e-messenger (http://mob.e-messenger.net/mobile/) and http://www.e-messenger.net/ for all of them

9.) What is P-TV?
P-TV is short for Pocket TV. P-TV is a website that allows PSP users to download movies for free onto their PSP.

10.) Does the browser support Java?
Yes the browser supports Javascript, but not Java (only Java script)

11.) Do I need a wireless router to access/use the internet browser?
From what I have gathered, yes, you still need a wireless router to access the internet via PSP

12.) What else is required to use the PSP web browser?
As stated in KingofNoobs FAQ:Well u need the follwing items:
PSP
Version 2.0 on your psp
High speed connection (DSL, Cable, T1,T3 or faster)
A wireless router that supports 802.11B standard or a 802.11g that has backwards compatiably with 802.11b

13.) When browsing, is there any chance of me getting a virus/spyware on PSP?
No, viruses/spyware are not formated to infect portable devices at the moment, and may never infect the PSP.

14.) When browsing the speed seems slow, what do I do?
To surf faster, make sure you have WiFi saving off in your PSP network settings

15.) I am getting a memory error on the web browser, what do I do?
Clear the cache and then make cache 2048 to clear this problem

16.) Can i connect online using WPA on my games
You cannot connect over the internet on your games using WPA at this time (so you can not download gamma packs via Wipeout Pure using 2.0)

17.) Is there a way to transfer files through the wireless connection?
Yes, check out the Misc. Section below and it is in the Transfer-->Wireless section

18.) Does Yahoo Mail work? Does Gmail?
Yahoo Mail does not work with the current PSP browser, but Gmail does. (If you want to switch from yahoo to gmail, check out [This guide]

20.) How do I close tabs?
To close tabs, you view the tab that you want to delete, press triangle, and the go to file-->close page.

21.) Every time i try to download a file it says there isn't enough space to do so, but i have checked and i do have enough space ! What should i do?
First, be sure to backup all of your gamesaves, photos, etc. Next format your memory stick under Settings > System Settings > Format Memory Stick. Put all of your files in the appropriate places and your psp should now download files correctly.

22.) Files that i download do not want to go into the directory i specify ... what should i do ?
First, be sure to backup all of your gamesaves, photos, etc. Next format your memory stick under Settings > System Settings > Format Memory Stick. Put all of your files in the appropriate places and your psp should now download files correctly.

23.)What are the viewing resolutions/sizes for the 2.0 browser?
The resolutions are all 480x272, but the PSP's browser has three viewing options: Normal (The normal resolution of the webpage), small fit (shrinks down the page just a little), and finally Just fit (Shrinks most of the page down so it is viewable on the PSP).

24.) Are we able to choose where to download the files that we download?
Yes, the browser will ask you before the download begins



Media playability Questions:
(Note: Questions are in Blue and Answers are in Red.)

1.) How do I use the wallpaper feature?
To use the wallpaper feature do the following:
1.) Move the picture you wish to use into your Photo folder
2.) Locate the image on you PSP, and click triangle
3.) Select the set as wallpaper
4.) Enjoy your wallpaper
Note: Only one may be used at a time
NOTE: If any of these steps are wrong, contact me, and I will change them (I do not use 2.0)

2.) Is the wallpaper feature like that of PSPersonalize?
Yes, but it is better. It is a.) safer and b.) allows bigger images to be used

3.) If I take out my memory stick, will the background still be there?
Yes

4.) What's the maximum size for a background image?
The maximum size (width:height) is: 480x272
UPDATE: ohgod just informed me that you can use the zoomed in area of larger pictures (greater than 480x272) and the zoomed in area will be set as the background. So you are able to upload large images, but If you want to use it as a large photo, and part as a background, multiple images are not required.

5.) Am I able to send pictures to my friend's PSP?
Yes.

6.) How do I send pictures to my friend's PSP?
Follow these steps: Gamexploiter:
1.) Turn Your Wi-Fi switch on
2.) Go To PHOTO
3.) Select The Photo You Want To Send/Share with another PSP
4.) Press Triangle
5.) Select SEND(icon with the "wireless" thingy)
6.) GO TO THE OTHER PSP(2nd PSP)
7.) Turn The WIFI Switch ON(2nd PSP)
8.) Go To PHOTO
9.) Go To Any Picture
10.) Press Triangle
11.) Press/Select RECEIVE
12.) The 1st PSP should find the 2nd PSP
13.) On Your 1st PSP(the one with the picture),Press X
14.) Wait For The Other PSP to download it
15.) The Picture Should Appear on the 2nd PSP
16.) Press O on your second PSP
17.) It Will Ask You if you want to save it to your memory stick
18.)Select Yes

7.) What is AVC Format?
AVC is: AVC format is the new MP4 it is a very good compression rate.. meaning that if u want to put a 10 meg movie u could put that same movie in 3X better quality for the same amount of space

8.) How does the UMD region code work now with the 2.0 upgrade?
If you upgrade a US PSP with JP firmware, the region codes will not change. Region codes do not change with firmware.

9.) Does AVC support full-screen?
Yes is does but right now we can only confirm the videos downloaded off the P-TV site are full screen (H.264 videos are downloaded from P-TV), and also if u want a homebrew movie to be full screen it has to be in the psp's resoultion. EDIT: Highest resolution user-able is: 320x240



10.) Where do I put h.264 videos?
h.264 videos go in the 100ANV01 folder, in the format MAQxxxxx.MP4 i.e MAQ10018.mp4

All normal videos i.e home made go into the 100MNV01 folder in the normal way.


11.) If I want to send pictures to a friend do they have to have a 2.0 also?
Yes, if you are sending files to a friend, they must have 2.0 as well

12.) How do I sign up for P-TV? (JP verison)
Read the P-TV Registration and Download Guide

13.) Does 2.0 support movable backgrounds/animated backgroun
No

.) Misc.
This section includes guides that involve 2.0 firmware/misc. topics that don't really fit in the above sections

Transfer Methods:
Wireless: Here is a great guide to transfer files from your 2.0 PSP (using the browser) and your computer (wireless transfer!): [pm me]

Direct USB connection: To connect to your PSP and transfer movies, pictures and music, just connect the PSP to your computer's usb port using a USB-USB-b connector. This acts as a removable drive.

do note that the next firmware verizon 2.0 will cripple all hacks for the psp

also the eta for the release of that there firmware update is august 11th me thinkys.

actually it will cripple hacks, at least for now. and the eta for the english patch is aug 26. That is why i got 2 psp's: 1 has firmware 2.0 and the other has 1.5 on it.

........................wishes i had the money to afford even one psp >.>

me too

fantastic guide for newbies

so you can play roms on your psp?

yeh. not also roms but also homade games that u want to test out.

there is now also a new downgrader for those who have 2.0 psp's to downgrade to 1.5. If you have a 1.51/2 psp you will have to upgrade first and then dowgrade. You should be able to find some information on psp-hacks.com

this is a great info

interesting i shall lookinto this. will come in handy in them long boring field problems

how do u play roms on the psp

no really how do u play roms on the psp because whenever i do it it says corrupted data and stuff its really retarted.

does anyone know were i can get a degrader?

Nice guide and for downgrader you should search it at google..

wow, i have a psp, thanx.

This is some good information, gracias.

yea!!! thx a bunch!! now all i need to do is downgrade my psp.... cuz its 2.71.....

Hey my psp is running on firmware 2.71 so i guess this ultimate usage cant apply to me can it ???

this is pretty cool. thanks.

psp is a waste of money

You guys are lucky to have one. They should have better games for the Psp because the ones they have now is kinda crappy.

thx for the info !!!!!

You should stick to emulation on the computer, until it can play emulation on a current firmwire. It is actually pointless to downgrade your system, for some half-assed emulation.

actually, I think its worth it.

Downgrading your system, actually prevents you from playing some PSP games. Because you have to have the latest version (2.60). To play some of them. So I save emulation for the computer.

That is true, that is why you should have two psps that is right, two.

"Yeah, lets go waste 500 dollars on two PSP's"

Nice faq I made one long time ago in spanish but know is outdated, anyway theres no need to buy 2 psp anymore thanks to the devhook.

The psp comunity has increased a lot in terms of homebrew.

kewl thanks for the info on the emulation

White Smoke was completely wrong, even back in august -_-

What ridiculous comments he obviously knows nothing (or knew nothing) of the PSPs capabilities.

There's nothing wrong with downgrading and there never has been. Even on the lower firwares could still play the newer games as long as you use the hacks. And they are, and were, always comming up with ways of getting around "mandatory firmware upgrades"

Hmm i own a 3.03 psp, and when i get lc:s my psp is gonna rock out in 3.03-C

Try this:

KingBK's PSP Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Firmware
II. PSP Purchase Guide
III. Downgrading
IV. Memory Stick
V. Modified Firmware
VI. DevHook
VII. How To Play Downloaded Games
VIII. Important Links

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I. Firmware

The firmware for the PSP is the most important piece of knowledge you will have to learn, so lets begin there! The PSP's firmware is comparable to your computer's operating system. Updates and security fixes are constantly released. Here is a list of all the firmwares available.

1.0
1.5
1.51
1.52
2.0
2.01
2.50
2.60
2.70
2.71
2.80
2.81
2.82
3.0
3.01
3.02
3.03
3.10
3.11
3.30
3.40
3.50
3.51
3.52


All games require a certain firmware version or higher to play. That means if you want to play the game "Pursuit Force", you will need 2.50 or higher to play. If you have a lower version, you will have to update. To play homebrew (downloaded games), you will need to have 1.5 on your PSP. Don't worry, all will be explained in the rest of the guide!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
II. PSP Purchase Guide

If you haven't purchased a PSP yet, then read here if you want to make homebrew easy for you. On the side of the PSP box you will see this.

See the circled letter? That letter will tell you what firmware version the PSP is inside. Here is the letter guide for most of the firmwares.

No letter = 1.0 (Japanese Release) OR 1.5 (North-American release)
A = 1.5
B = 1.51
C = 1.52
D = 1.52
E = 1.52
F = 2.0
G = 2.01
H = 2.50
I = 2.60
J = 2.70
K = 2.71
L = 2.81
Unknown = 2.82
Unknown = 3.00
Unknown = 3.01
Unknown = 3.02
Unknown = 3.03
Unknown = 3.10
Unknown = 3.11
Unknown = 3.30
Unknown = 3.40
Unknown = 3.50
Unknown = 3.51
Unknown = 3.52

If it's possible purchase 1.5 (or at least the lowest possible) , but don't worry if you are unable to. FW 3.50 and lower can all be downgraded to 1.5! Downgrading is slightly risky because it could possibly break (AKA brick) your PSP, but the risk is quite low if you follow the directions exactly.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
III. Downgrading

To play any downloaded games, you will need to have firmware 1.5. To check what you have on your PSP, turn it on and go to "Settings > System Settings > System Information". If you do not have 1.5, you will need to downgrade. Like I have said before, downgrading is slightly risky. Most people that brick their PSP's do so because they didn't follow the directions properly, so read directions thoroughly to avoid becoming a victim! There are many downgraders that exist, so I can't list them all. Here are a few downgraders that most people will need at this point in time.

3.50 Downgrader (Requires unpatched Lumines UMD)

3.03 Downgrader (Requires unpatched GTA:LCS UMD)

2.80 Downgrader (TA-082 Motherboard)

2.80 - 2.71 Downgrader (TA-079 - TA-086 Motherboard)


If you have a lower version of firmware on your PSP than the downgrader, you will have to update to the downgraders required firmware. If you think you need another downgrader that is not listed, check out this link.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IV. Memory Stick

To play all those great downloaded games, you will need a decent memory card. I recommend atleast 1GB, but if you can afford a bigger card thats better. One thing to watch out for is fake memory cards on Ebay or unre****ble sites. Only buy from trusted sources to be safe (Best Buy, Walmart, Amazon, Newegg, etc). Here are some good products and their average price.

SanDisk 512MB Memory Stick PRO Duo -> $35.00
SanDisk 1.0GB Memory Stick PRO Duo -> $44.00
SanDisk 2.0GB Memory Stick PRO Duo -> $80.00
SanDisk 4.0GB Ultra II Memory Stick PRO Duo -> $100.00 - $150.00

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V. Custom Firmware

Personally I recommend Custom firmware to play homebrew, but some might dislike it because it requires you to flash your PSP. Once installed, modified firmware is extremely easy to use, unlike DevHook which is your other option. One of the upsides is that you can play PS1 games without the need of a PS3!

What do I need?

Internet connection (I will assume if you are reading this you have one)
PSP running 1.5 OR any OE / M33 custom (If you don't have a PSP with 1.5 there is still hope if you have not upgraded past 3.5. Search around how to downgrade)
Battery 75% or better
M33 3.52
USB Cable or Card reader / writer

Installing on 1.5


1.Copy kxploitpatcher and kxploitpatcher% to X:/PSP/GAME/ on your PSP
2.Copy M33CREATOR to X:/PSP/GAME/ on your PSP
3.Download the official 3.52 EBOOT and rename it 352.PBP
4.Download the official 1.50 EBOOT and rename it 150.PBP
5.Copy 352.PBP & 150.PBP to X:/PSP/GAME/M33CREATOR/ on your PSP
6.Now disconnect or reinsert your PSP memory card
7.On your PSP home screen goto the game folder and run kxploitpatcher
8.Once done run 3.52 M33 CREATOR
9.Now run 3.52 M33UPDATE

Once finished you should have a healthy 3.52 M33 Custom Firmware (scroll down for update)



Installing on 3.xx OE or 3.5x M33 Custom Firmwares


1.Copy M33CREATOR to X:/PSP/GAME150/ on your PSP
2.Download the official 3.52 EBOOT and rename it 352.PBP
3.Download the official 1.50 EBOOT and rename it 150.PBP
4.Copy 352.PBP & 150.PBP to X:/PSP/GAME150/M33CREATOR/ on your PSP
5.Now disconnect or reinsert your PSP memory card
6.On your PSP home screen goto the game folder and run 3.52 M33 CREATOR
7.Now run 3.52 M33UPDATE
Once finished you should have a healthy 3.52 M33 Custom Firmware (scroll down for update)

Installing Update 2 for 3.52 M33 (This assumes you already have 3.52 M33 installed with no problems)

1.Download this
2.Copy M33Update to X:/PSP/GAME150/ on your PSP
3.On your PSP home screen goto the game folder and run M33 UPDATE 2

Once finished you should have a healthy 3.52 M33 Almost up to date Custom Firmware (3.52-2 M33) Scroll Down For Update Once Again)

3.52 M33-3 update

Do The Same Thing You Did To Update To 3.52 M33-2 But Use This

QUOTE

File Description
Team M33 called the shot, and they made it with a picture-perfect finish. Yes, PSP homebrew development fans, it's the promised third update of their own Custom Firmware 3.52, with all the awesome bells and whistles to make your PlayStation Portable all that more tricked out (can you say popsloader?). Let's cut the chit-chat and get right to what's changed in this update!

Changes:

* Added more speeds: 75 and 133.
* Added flash2 and flash3 usb to recovery
* Added a setting in recovery to change the usb device to which XMB will connect.
* Added "vshmenu", which is a menu that will appear when HOME is pressed in the XMB. It will interfere with existing
* XMB plugins that use HOME, so it can be disabled in recovery.
* - Added umd video iso support. The umd video isos are playes using vshmenu. Video isos go in
* /ISO/VIDEO folder. They require an UMD inserted because NO-UMD does not work.

Changes in popsloader:

* Support for 3.30 firmware. Instructions are same as in previous release, except 3.30
* firmware did not have libpspvmc.prx, so just ignore that file.
* Warning: There is an incompatibility between 3.30 savedata and later ones. If a savedata exists from 3.40+, the emulator will freeze.

A few notes from the M33 team about vshmenu and UMD video ISOs:

* vshmenu cannot be loaded when the browser is active. If you exit the browser, the firmware will still keep it in memory until you enter other area of xmb, until you do so, you will not be able to access vshmenu again either.
* video isos and the game isos show in xmb use the same core. Due to this, when you enter in game menu and there is some iso, if a video iso was currently mounted, it will automatically be unmounted.
* cso format is not supported for video isos.
* UMD audio isos are theoretically supported, but not tested. They go to /ISO/VIDEO.

As always, read the relevant readme files included in the zip file before applying the update to your PSP. This is custom firmware business, and tinkering around with it without proper information and knowledge could lead to bricking. And if you're having fun using their custom firmware, why not send the M33 team a few votes of encouragement for their hard work via a donation or two to their Paypal account? It'd help loads for future firmware development!

Click here to Download


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[b]VI. DevHook

For people who are either nervous about flashing there PSP with modified firmware or just want to keep there PSP at 1.50, the answer is DevHook! There is little to no risk of bricking your PSP while installing DevHook, so this might be the best choice for newer PSP users. The other wonderful part about using DevHook is that it comes with an automatic installer (easy for beginners)! The downside to using DevHook is that you will be unable to play PS1 games, only the "OE" and "M33" firmwares can play them.

Devhook.52.0100 installer


Instructions for Installation


After the installation you can delete the following from your memorystick...

ms0:\psp\game/150\%__SCE__302_dh_fw_installer
ms0:\psp\game/150\__SCE__302_dh_fw_installer


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VII. How To Play Downloaded Games

Hopefully you now have the modified firmware running on your PSP, so I bet you can't wait to play games, right? The great thing is that you can play both PSP and PS1 games. To play your downloaded games, load the ISO or CSO of your game into the "ISO" folder on your PSP. If you would like to play a PS1 game, you will find many PSP-ready PS1 games in Warez-bb's console games section. Just place the PS1 eboot into the "GAME" folder on your PSP.

To play your games, turn on your PSP and go to "Game > Memory Stick > YOUR GAMES LISTED HERE".


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VIII. Important Links

Misc PSP news/downloads


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I know that this guide can be filled with more information, and I will update it as often as possible. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to say them in a comment. I just want to give a shout out to ThePSPHackers for being the best forum on the web, so I wrote this guide to give a little back to the community!!

NOTE: Please do not PM me for help, I have been receiving far too many. I love helping people, but I can't help everybody. If you have a question please feel free to ask in this topic.

Great tut even though I already know that... lol