Jump to content

PlayStation 3: Difference between revisions

Page semi-protected
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous editNext edit →
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
→‎Connectivity: file system requirements for external drives
m grammer/redunancy
Line 27: Line 27:
The {{nihongo|'''PlayStation 3'''|プレイステーション3|Pureisutēshon Surī|extra=trademarked '''PLAYSTATION®3''',<ref name="capitalization">{{cite web|url=http://www.techzonept.com/showpost.php?p=627410&postcount=498 |title=The Reason Why PLAYSTATION Is In Capitals |accessdate=2006-08-19 |author=Ansatsu |date=[[2005-12-06]] |publisher=Techzone }}</ref> commonly abbreviated '''PS3'''}} is a [[video game console]] from [[Sony Computer Entertainment]], and the successor to the [[PlayStation]] and [[PlayStation 2]]. The PlayStation 3 competes with [[Microsoft]]'s [[Xbox 360]] and [[Nintendo]]'s [[Wii]] as part of the [[History of video game consoles (seventh generation)|seventh generation]] of video game consoles. In sales and market share, it is currently in third place.<ref name="hdupdate">[http://www.sci-tech-today.com/news/HD-Update-Coming-to-Sony-PlayStation-3/story.xhtml?story_id=11300DT7AFE3 HD Update Coming to Sony PlayStation 3] Sci-Tech Today, May 23, 2007</ref> The console was first released on [[November 11]], [[2006]] in [[Japan]] and shortly after on [[November 17]], [[2006]] in [[North America]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Taiwan]]. The PlayStation 3 utilizes the [[Blu-ray Disc]] format for optical media, while also supporting [[CD]]s, [[DVD]]s, [[SACD]]s, and other previous disc formats. The PS3 can also output [[high-definition video]] for both video games and movies via an [[HDMI]]&nbsp;1.3 port, supporting up to [[1080p]] HD resolution. After a recent software update, [[DVD-Video]], [[PlayStation]] and [[PlayStation 2]] games can be [[upscaling|upscaled]] to [[high-definition]], however copy-protected content (such as commercial DVDs) can only be upscaled over HDMI.<ref name="hdupdate" />
The {{nihongo|'''PlayStation 3'''|プレイステーション3|Pureisutēshon Surī|extra=trademarked '''PLAYSTATION®3''',<ref name="capitalization">{{cite web|url=http://www.techzonept.com/showpost.php?p=627410&postcount=498 |title=The Reason Why PLAYSTATION Is In Capitals |accessdate=2006-08-19 |author=Ansatsu |date=[[2005-12-06]] |publisher=Techzone }}</ref> commonly abbreviated '''PS3'''}} is a [[video game console]] from [[Sony Computer Entertainment]], and the successor to the [[PlayStation]] and [[PlayStation 2]]. The PlayStation 3 competes with [[Microsoft]]'s [[Xbox 360]] and [[Nintendo]]'s [[Wii]] as part of the [[History of video game consoles (seventh generation)|seventh generation]] of video game consoles. In sales and market share, it is currently in third place.<ref name="hdupdate">[http://www.sci-tech-today.com/news/HD-Update-Coming-to-Sony-PlayStation-3/story.xhtml?story_id=11300DT7AFE3 HD Update Coming to Sony PlayStation 3] Sci-Tech Today, May 23, 2007</ref> The console was first released on [[November 11]], [[2006]] in [[Japan]] and shortly after on [[November 17]], [[2006]] in [[North America]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Taiwan]]. The PlayStation 3 utilizes the [[Blu-ray Disc]] format for optical media, while also supporting [[CD]]s, [[DVD]]s, [[SACD]]s, and other previous disc formats. The PS3 can also output [[high-definition video]] for both video games and movies via an [[HDMI]]&nbsp;1.3 port, supporting up to [[1080p]] HD resolution. After a recent software update, [[DVD-Video]], [[PlayStation]] and [[PlayStation 2]] games can be [[upscaling|upscaled]] to [[high-definition]], however copy-protected content (such as commercial DVDs) can only be upscaled over HDMI.<ref name="hdupdate" />


It was initially available in [[PlayStation 3#System configuration|two configurations]], the 20&nbsp;GB Basic model and the 60&nbsp;GB Premium model. The 20&nbsp;GB model is still on sale in [[Japan]], however it was discontinued in the [[US]] and [[Canada]] on [[April 11]], [[2007]], due to lack of consumer demand.<ref>{{cite web |last=Thorsen |first=Tor |coauthors=Emma Boyes |url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6168876.html |title=20 GB PS3 officially discontinued in North America |publisher=GameSpot |date=[[2007-04-11]] |accessdate=2007-04-15}}</ref> The 20&nbsp;GB model is still on sale in Japan, but has yet to be released in [[PAL region|PAL]] territories.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gantayat |first=Anoop |url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/779/779976p1.html |title=Sony Continues 20 Gig PS3 in Japan |publisher=IGN |date=[[2007-04-12]] |accessdate=2007-04-12}}</ref> On [[May 21]], [[2007]] Sony announced that it would be releasing the PS3 in Korea in only one configuration, featuring an 80&nbsp;GB hard drive and [[IPTV]] compatibility.<ref name="80GB in Korea">{{cite web |url=http://www.playstation.co.kr/info/bc |title=Sony Computer Entertainment Korea |accessdate=2007-05-21 |author=[[Sony]] |date=2007-05-21}}</ref> Sony has stated that a release of the 20&nbsp;GB model in [[PAL]] territories is "highly unlikely".<ref name="No PAL 20GB">{{cite web |url=http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5930&Itemid=2 |title=Reeves: No PAL 80GB PS3 Plans |author=Tom Ivan |publisher=[[Next Generation Magazine|Next-Gen.biz]] |date=[[2007-06-10]] |accessdate=2007-06-12}}</ref>
It was initially available in [[PlayStation 3#System configuration|two configurations]], the 20&nbsp;GB Basic model and the 60&nbsp;GB Premium model. The 20&nbsp;GB model is still on sale in [[Japan]], however it was discontinued in the [[US]] and [[Canada]] on [[April 11]], [[2007]], due to lack of consumer demand<ref>{{cite web |last=Thorsen |first=Tor |coauthors=Emma Boyes |url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6168876.html |title=20 GB PS3 officially discontinued in North America |publisher=GameSpot |date=[[2007-04-11]] |accessdate=2007-04-15}}</ref>; it was not released in [[PAL region|PAL]] territories.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gantayat |first=Anoop |url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/779/779976p1.html |title=Sony Continues 20 Gig PS3 in Japan |publisher=IGN |date=[[2007-04-12]] |accessdate=2007-04-12}}</ref> On [[May 21]], [[2007]] Sony announced that it would be releasing the PS3 in Korea in only one configuration, featuring an 80&nbsp;GB hard drive and [[IPTV]] compatibility.<ref name="80GB in Korea">{{cite web |url=http://www.playstation.co.kr/info/bc |title=Sony Computer Entertainment Korea |accessdate=2007-05-21 |author=[[Sony]] |date=2007-05-21}}</ref> Sony has stated that a release of the 20&nbsp;GB model in [[PAL]] territories is "highly unlikely".<ref name="No PAL 20GB">{{cite web |url=http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5930&Itemid=2 |title=Reeves: No PAL 80GB PS3 Plans |author=Tom Ivan |publisher=[[Next Generation Magazine|Next-Gen.biz]] |date=[[2007-06-10]] |accessdate=2007-06-12}}</ref>


==History==
==History==

Revision as of 16:45, 19 June 2007

PlayStation 3
PlayStation 3 logo
PlayStation 3 logo
ManufacturerSony, Foxconn and ASUSTeK for SCEI [1]
TypeVideo game console
GenerationSeventh generation era
LifespanJapan November 11, 2006
United States November 17, 2006
Europe March 23 2007
Template:Country data World (More...)
Units sold3.6 million+ (details)
Units shipped5.5 million+ (details)
MediaBD-ROM
DVD-ROM
CD-ROM
Super Audio CD
CPU3.2 GHz Cell Broadband Engine with 1 PPE & 7 SPEs
Storage2.5" SATA hard drive
(20 GB or 60 GB included)
GraphicsNVIDIA-SCEI "RSX"
Controller inputUp to 7 SIXAXIS controllers
Connectivity(details)
Online servicesPlayStation Network
Best-selling gameResistance: Fall of Man[2]
Backward
compatibility		PlayStation games
PlayStation 2 games
PredecessorPlayStation 2

The PlayStation 3 (プレイステーション3, Pureisutēshon Surī, trademarked PLAYSTATION®3,[3] commonly abbreviated PS3) is a video game console from Sony Computer Entertainment, and the successor to the PlayStation and PlayStation 2. The PlayStation 3 competes with Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Nintendo's Wii as part of the seventh generation of video game consoles. In sales and market share, it is currently in third place.[4] The console was first released on November 11, 2006 in Japan and shortly after on November 17, 2006 in North America, Hong Kong and Taiwan. The PlayStation 3 utilizes the Blu-ray Disc format for optical media, while also supporting CDs, DVDs, SACDs, and other previous disc formats. The PS3 can also output high-definition video for both video games and movies via an HDMI 1.3 port, supporting up to 1080p HD resolution. After a recent software update, DVD-Video, PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games can be upscaled to high-definition, however copy-protected content (such as commercial DVDs) can only be upscaled over HDMI.[4]

It was initially available in two configurations, the 20 GB Basic model and the 60 GB Premium model. The 20 GB model is still on sale in Japan, however it was discontinued in the US and Canada on April 11, 2007, due to lack of consumer demand[5]; it was not released in PAL territories.[6] On May 21, 2007 Sony announced that it would be releasing the PS3 in Korea in only one configuration, featuring an 80 GB hard drive and IPTV compatibility.[7] Sony has stated that a release of the 20 GB model in PAL territories is "highly unlikely".[8]

History

Sony officially unveiled the PlayStation 3 to the public on May 16, 2005, during the E3 2005conference. A functional version of the console was not present there, nor the Tokyo Game Show in September 2005, although demonstrations were held at both events on devkits (e.g. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots) and comparable PC hardware. Video footage based on the predicted PlayStation 3 specifications was also shown (e.g. Mobile Suit Gundam).[9] The console was initially planned to have two HDMI and three Ethernet ports, though this was later reduced to one of each, presumably to cut costs.[10]

It was not until E3 2006 that games were shown on actual PlayStation 3 systems.[citation needed] On September 22 2006, at the 2006 Tokyo Game Show, Sony announced that it would be including HDMI on all versions of the console, and reducing the launch price on Core models by over 20%;[11] the Premium version of the console has an open pricing scheme.[11] Sony demonstrated 27 playable PS3 titles during the Tokyo Game Show on final hardware.[12]

Launch

Main article: PlayStation 3 launch

The PlayStation 3 was first released in Japan on November 11, 2006, at 07:00. There were reports that many of the initial consoles were obtained by businessmen who paid mainly Chinese nationals to buy the console without any software[13] to resell on eBay. According to Media Create, 81,639 PS3 systems were sold within 24 hours of its introduction in Japan.[14]

Soon after its release in Japan, the PS3 was released in North America on November 17. Reports of violence surrounding the release of the PS3 include a customer shot,[15] campers robbed at gunpoint,[16] customers shot in a drive-by shooting with BB guns,[17] and 60 campers fighting over 10 systems.[18] In California, two GameStop employees are believed to have fabricated a robbery to cover up their own theft of several PlayStation 3 and four Xbox 360 consoles.[19]

The PS3 was launched in Europe, Australia and New Zealand on March 23 2007, however both territories received only the 60 GB model. As a special gift, the first 100 customers waiting in line at Virgin Megastores on Oxford Street in London in the UK received a free 40″ BRAVIA HD-ready LCD television and a taxi ride home. In total, it was estimated that Sony gave away £250,000 worth of TVs.[citation needed]

System configuration

Feature Core Premium Korean
Upgradeable hard drive Yes, 20 GB Yes, 60 GB Yes, 80 GB
Blu-ray Disc drive Yes Yes Yes
HDMI port (v1.3) Yes[20] Yes Yes
Bluetooth controller Yes Yes Yes
Ethernet port Yes Yes Yes
Chrome trim No Yes Yes
Built-in Wi-Fi No Yes Yes
Flash card readers No Yes Yes
IPTV compatibility No No Yes

At its launch in Japan and North America in November 2006, two versions of the console were released; a Core version and a more expensive Premium version, featuring a larger hard drive and Wi-Fi capability. Sony discontinued the 20 GB model in the US and Canada on April 11, 2007, citing a lack of consumer demand,[21] though it is still on sale in Japan. On May 21, 2007 Sony announced that only one version would be released in Korea, featuring an 80 GB hard drive and IPTV. Sony Korea has stated that IPTV feature was added to the Korean version in order to keep up with FTTP, which is widely available in Korea.[7] IPTV is setup up through an external adaptor(settop) which is sold or provided by contents deliverers, which makes it possible for other versions in different counrties to support IPTV by simply attaching the adaptor to their consoles when the service is available. Additionally, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe president David Reeves has stated that there are currently no plans for an 80GB console to be released in PAL territories, and that a 20GB version is "highly unlikely".[8]

As of June 2007 there are three retail configurations of the PlayStation 3, Core (20 GB), Premium (60 GB) and an IPTV capable unit (80 GB) released only in South Korea. All configurations feature a Blu-Ray Disc drive, a v1.3 HDMI port, a built-in 2.5" Serial ATA hard drive and Bluetooth controller support. The console's hard drive is upgradeable, using the standard Serial ATA interface. In addition to the Core features, the Premium version is fitted with multiple flash memory card readers (SD/MultiMedia Card, CompactFlash, Memory Stick), IEEE 802.11b/g Wi-Fi connectivity, and features a chrome-colored trim.[22]

No official Wi-Fi or flash memory card readers have yet been released by Sony for the Core console, although plans for such add-ons are in place.[23] Nevertheless, as both models feature four USB 2.0 ports, wireless networking and flash memory card support can already be obtained through the use of widely available external USB adapters. No high-definition video cables are included; instead, a composite video/stereo audio cable ships with the system. While Sony has released an official PS3 component cable, the official PS2 component cables are compatible with the PS3, as both consoles use the same AV Multi Out jack. The converse is true as well; official PS3 component cables work with the PS2. White and Silver models have been on display at Sony's conferences in E3 and the Tokyo Game Show, but as of yet no details on their release dates have been announced.[citation needed]

Sales and pricing

See also: PlayStation 3 launch § Release data and pricing
File:PS3 60GIG BOX.jpg
The PlayStation 3 system box
Region Units sold Units shipped First available
North America 1,300,000+ as of May 18, 2007[24] 2 million+ as of January 7, 2007[25][26] 17 November, 2006
Japan 928,642+ as of June 5, 2007[27] 11 November, 2006
Europe 1,000,000 + as of June 8, 2007[28] 2 million+ as of March 23, 2007
(Including New Zealand) 		23 March 2007
Australia 36,000+ as of May 2, 2007[29] 23 March 2007
Total 3.6 million+ as of April 1, 2007[30] 5.5 million+ as of April 1, 2007[30]

In the worldwide marketplace, PlayStation 3 is currently behind its competitor systems, the Xbox 360 and the Wii, in both overall and monthly sales. As a result, the head of gaming at Sony, Ken Kutaragi, stepped down in April 2007. [31] Some journalists have judged the relative ease with which it is possible to buy a PlayStation 3 in stores in America and Japan, compared with the scarcity of the Wii, as evidence of lukewarm consumer demand for the console.[32] There have also been reports that some Japanese retailers are already discounting the console to stimulate demand.[33]

On January 7, 2007, Sony confirmed they met the goal of shipping over 1 million units to North America.[25] Just over a week later, on January 16 2007, Sony confirmed they had shipped 1 million units in Japan, bringing the worldwide total to 2 million shipped.[26]

The initial production cost has been estimated to be USD 805.85 for the 20 GB model and USD 840.35 for the 60 GB model.[34] The high manufacturing costs mean that every unit is sold at a loss, leading to Sony's games division posting an operating loss of ¥232.3 billion ($1.97 billion US) in the fiscal year ended March 2007. [35]

Games

Main articles: List of PlayStation 3 games, Chronology of PlayStation 3 games, and List of PlayStation Network games

At its North American launch a total of fourteen titles were available,[36] and a further seven titles were released at its European launch.[citation needed] Five days after the launch in North America, the first person shooter Resistance: Fall of Man was confirmed as the best-selling game and was heavily praised by many reputable gaming websites, including GameSpot and IGN, who both gave it their PlayStation 3 Game of the Year award for 2006.[37][38] However, the console was criticized for offering such a limited number of top-tier titles, both at launch and in the following months.[citation needed] Also, despite the high-definition operability touted by Sony, NBA 07 was the only launch title that could be played in full 1080p.[citation needed] Several planned launch titles from popular franchises were delayed until 2007, including Oblivion, F.E.A.R., and Sonic the Hedgehog.

Sequels are planned for some of Sony's most renowned franchises, such as God of War and Gran Turismo.[citation needed] There are also a number of upcoming third party titles that are scheduled for release exclusively on the PlayStation 3.[39] These include Final Fantasy XIII, Metal Gear Solid 4, Monster Hunter 3, Ninja Gaiden Sigma, Tekken 6 and WarDevil: Enigma. However, a number of third-party games that were originally announced as exclusive to the PlayStation 3, such as Devil May Cry 4 and Virtua Fighter 5, have later been announced for other platforms.

Game development

The PlayStation 3 is based on open and publicly available application programming interfaces. Sony has selected several technologies and arranged several sublicensing agreements to create an advanced software development kit for developers. In addition, in 2005 Sony purchased SN Systems, a former provider of Microsoft Windows-based development tools for a variety of console platforms; including PlayStation 2, GameCube, PlayStation Portable and Nintendo DS to create additional GNU development tools.[citation needed]

Open standards for OpenGL, matrix algorithms, and scene data are specified by the Khronos Group, and are intended to work with nVidia's Cg programming language. Scene data are stored with COLLADA v1.4, an open, XML-based file format.[40] Rendering uses PSGL, a modified version of OpenGL ES 1.0 (OpenGL ES 2.0 compliant except for the use of Cg instead of GLSL), with extensions specifically aimed at the PS3.[41] Other specifications include OpenMAX, a collection of fast, cross-platform tools for general "media acceleration," such as matrix calculations, and OpenVG, for hardware-accelerated 2D vector graphics. These specifications have GPL, free for any use, and/or commercial implementations by third parties.

Sublicensed technology includes complete game engines, physics libraries, and special libraries. Engines include Epic's Unreal engine 3.0. Physics libraries include AGEIA's PhysX SDK, NovodeX,[42] and Havok's physics and animation engines.[43] Other tools include Nvidia's Cg 1.5 (a C-like shading language, which HLSL was based upon), SpeedTree RT by Interactive Data Visualization, Inc. (high-quality virtual foliage in real time), and Kynogon's Kynapse 4.0 "large scale A.I.".[44]

Sony has considered using IPv6, the next generation of the Internet Protocol.[45]

Some titles, such as Genji: Days of the Blade and Ridge Racer 7, allow users to install 4–5 GB of game data to the hard drive, which dramatically improves load times. In Genji, for example, the cached data reduces load times from 15 seconds to around 4 seconds.[46]

Recently, Sony announced a new tool set that will be free to all developers known as "PlayStation Edge" that will offer highly optimized lightweight libraries for CELL SPUs. These libraries will provide code for animation, compression (expected to greatly help loading times), and many more features. The package will also provide 'GCM Replay', a powerful RSX profiling tool to allow developers to gain the most out of the PlayStation 3's graphics chip.[47]

Backward compatibility

Sony stated that every PlayStation and PlayStation 2 game that observes its respective system's TRC (Technical Requirements Checklist) would be playable on PS3 at launch. SCE president Ken Kutaragi asked developers to adhere to the TRC to facilitate compatibility with future PlayStations, stating that the company was having some difficulty getting backward compatibility with games that had not followed the TRCs. It has been confirmed (image) that initial PS3 units include the CPU/rasterizer combination chip used in the slim PS2 (EE+GS) to achieve backward compatibility.[48] European launch units shipped without the EE component, instead relying on software emulation for the Emotion Engine.[49] The backward compatibility function is region-locked.[50] Japanese and American PlayStation 3 released in near future will also lack the Emotion Engine.[51]

The PlayStation 3 does not include interfaces for legacy PlayStation peripherals, though IGN.com tested a legacy controller using a PS2-to-USB adapter, finding that it is compatible, though most other devices (such as the Guitar Hero controller) may not be compatible.[52] Nyko started production on the "Play Adaptor", a PS2-to-USB adapter allowing for guitars and other PlayStation 2 peripherals to be used on the PlayStation 3 and was scheduled for release in Q2/2007, but Nyko stated at the end of March that the production of this device had been postponed due to compatibility problems with the PS3.[53] The PS3 supports both the USB EyeToy camera/webcam and SOCOM Headset for video and voice chat. A memory card adapter is available so users can copy their old PS/PS2 game saves to a virtual memory card on the PS3’s hard drive, or vice-versa.[54] The PlayStation 3 can also use Memory Sticks to store save data for PlayStation and PlayStation 2 software.[55]

Initially, at launch, approximately 3% of PlayStation and PlayStation 2 titles had minor compatibility issues, including poor audio, system freezes or controller malfunctions.[56] Popular games reported to have these glitches included Tekken 5 and Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec.[citation needed] Many games had also been reported to have problems with garbled or unreadable text on-screen and generally blurry image quality, but the January 24, 2007 software release, which updated the system to version 1.50, has fully resolved this issue.[57]

European & Australian version

The European and Australian versions of the PlayStation 3 have significantly reduced support for legacy PlayStation and PlayStation 2 titles compared to the Japanese and North American editions. Dedicated hardware support was removed in order to reduce production costs, and has been replaced by software emulation.[58] Sony released a list of compatible games on March 20, 2007, with ratings saying whether a game had noticeable issues, minor issues or no known issues. Games not on the list are not compatible with the PlayStation 3 at that time. The list shows that 1,782 PlayStation 2 and over 1,000 original Playstation games will be playable on the PAL PS3 at launch (though some have minor to major issues),[59] accounting for about 72% of all PS2 games released in Europe.[60] From IGN's top 25 PS2 games list,[61] nine games are reported to have no known compatibility issues with the PS3, four games have minor compatibility issues, four more have major issues, and eight games are not supported at all.

In line with Sony's original gameplan,[62] and in a press release from SCE Europe (SCEE),[63] Sony stated that starting with the PAL version, the PS3 will utilize software emulation for aspects of PS2 backwards compatibility that were originally taken care of by dedicated chips. In the same press release it is stated that in time, additional PS2 titles will become compatible through regular downloadable firmware updates. The backwards compatibility information page advises players to "avoid the use of 60 Hz and network modes" and "skip optional FMV sequences" in order to minimise the effects of errors in the emulation.[64] Unfortunately, firmware updates can adversely affect the backward compatibility of some titles. For example, firmware version 1.70 adds support for many titles absent from version 1.60, at the cost of completely removing compatibility with Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, and dropping the compatibility rating of Ico and several Burnout titles from "No known issues to date" to "Should play on PLAYSTATION®3 with noticeable issues".[64] There are however PS1 games not included in the list, like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and Castlevania Chronicles, that work fine with firmware version 1.70.

David Reeves, President of SCEE, stated that “...rather than concentrate on PS2 backwards compatibility in the future, company resources will be increasingly focused on developing new games and entertainment features exclusively for PS3.” Sony has since stated that the chip will be later removed in the North American and Japanese models as well.[65]

Software

Operating System

Main article: PlayStation 3 System Software

Sony has added the ability for the operating system, referred to as System Software, to be updated. The update process is similar to the firmware updates for the PlayStation Portable (PSP). The updates can be downloaded from the PlayStation Network directly to the PS3 and subsequently installed. Sony has also provided the ability to download system software updates from their official PlayStation website to users’ PCs and then storage media, from which the update can be installed to the system. Updates can also be installed from game discs that require the updates to be able to play the game. The PlayStation 3 has the ability to store system software of sizes up to 128 MB.[citation needed]

The latest version of the software is version 1.81, released on June 15, 2007. Version 1.81 adds minor changes including a better connection for some PlayStation 2 online games and an improved method of setting the "RGB Full Range (HDMI)" option.[66] Version 1.80 allows for the upscaling of DVDs, along with PS1 and PS2 games, to 1080p resolution, as well as the downscaling of Blu-ray video to 720p. It also enables users on a home network to use the PS3 to view images, listen to music, or play videos that are stored on their DLNA devices (including PCs and laptops) elsewhere in the house, on the same network as the PS3. The console now supports the xvYCC color space for AVCHD-encoded media. The PSP's Remote Play function is also set to be improved thanks to the firmware update and PSP owners can now access their PS3 from anywhere in the world — as long as a broadband connection is available and firmware 3.50 for the PSP is installed. A new type of slideshow display pattern has been added, and there are now zoom and trim functions available for images. In addition, the Memory Card Adaptor can now be used to transfer PS/PS2 game saves from the PS3 hard drive to a PS/PS2 memory card; the update also allows the transferral of copy-protected PS/PS2 game saves. CD information can now be edited, and users can submit information to All Music Guide. Finally, software version 1.80 includes the ability to print photos stored on the PS3’s hard drive or inserted storage media with a selection of Epson printers via USB.[67]

Graphical user interface

Main article: Cross Media Bar
PS3's XMB (Cross Media Bar) Interface

The PlayStation 3 version of the Cross Media Bar (unofficially called Xross Media Bar, or officially abbreviated XMB) includes 8 categories of options. These include: Users, Settings, Photo, Music, Video, Game, Network and Friends (similar to the PlayStation Portable media bar). The PS3 includes the ability to store different user profiles, explore photos, play music and movies from the hard drive, compatibility for a USB keyboard and mouse, a full Internet browser and a Friends menu. Also, the PlayStation 3 adds the ability to multitask in ways such as listening to music while surfing the web or looking at pictures.[68] The PlayStation 3 XMB supports a variety of file formats (audio, image, video). Because the PlayStation 3 is capable of running Linux, other formats can be played through the operating system, assuming the correct codec is present. In a separate demo Sony presented the "Marketplace" where users can buy and download music. The PS3 reserves 64 MB of RAM at all times for XMB functions.

The XMB's default background color changes depending on the current month of the year, and it changes brightness depending on the time of day.

Q-Games Ltd, a small development company based in Kyoto, Japan, developed the graphics technology behind the XMB, its stylized background, and the built-in music visualizers. The PlayStation 3 uses a version of the NetFront browser by Access Co. as its internal web browser. It is the same browser used in the PlayStation Portable (Sony-branded NetFront 2.81) with the same interface, menus and virtual keyboard. Sony has also worked with Stanford University to bring the Folding@home project to the PS3.[69] Once downloaded, the program can be configured to run when the system is idle or executed manually from the XMB.

Linux

Main article: PlayStation 3 Linux
Ubuntu Linux installed on a PS3.

Sony has included an option in the XMB menu to install other operating systems.[70] Among other Linux distributions, Ubuntu, Fedora Core 5, Gentoo, Debian, and Yellow Dog have been run on the PS3.[71][72][73][74]

Sony currently implements a hypervisor restricting RSX access,[75] though the graphics are fast enough for emulation of some old systems. Linux has access to 6 of the 7 SPEs, and IBM provides an introduction to programming parallel applications on the PlayStation 3 [1].

Because we have plans for having Linux on board the PS3, we also recognize Linux programming activities… Other than game studios tied to official developer licenses, we had like to see various individuals participate in content creation for the PS3.

— on the presence of the Linux in the PS3.[76]
Wikibooks
Wikibooks
Wikibooks Linux Guide has a page concerning the
PlayStation 3

PlayStation Network

Main article: PlayStation Network

In response to Microsoft's Xbox Live network, Sony announced a unified online service for the PlayStation 3 console at the 2006 PlayStation Business Briefing meeting in Tokyo. Sony has confirmed that the service will be always connected,[77] free and include multiplayer support; however, developers are permitted to charge a subscription fee, as is common with MMO games.

At the Tokyo Game Show on September 21, 2006, it was revealed that users will be able to download some of the thousands of PlayStation 1 and PlayStation 2 titles from the PlayStation Network for about $5 to $15, starting with those with the smallest game data. The reason to allow this kind of functionality is that Sony to allow the users to choose the games of their preference. Ken Kutaragi also announced functionality with other consoles, similar to Nintendo's Virtual Console, including confirmed Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx 16 functionality; however, Sega has replied that Sony has been too hasty with calling it a fact. Sega is currently reviewing the possibilities, but has not yet made a decision on it.[78]

The registration interface can only be accessed through the PS3 system interface.[79] As of firmware update 1.60, there are three methods for typing on the PS3, which includes an on-screen T9 "dial pad" system (similar to writing a text message on a mobile phone) that predicts words as they are typed. Another is a traditional on-screen keyboard, and finally the use of a physical USB or Bluetooth keyboard is also available.[80] The predictive text does not predict any capitalized words, causing users that want to make use of this feature to input all words in lowercase and then go back and capitalize the first letters (if needed). An alternative is to add words to the system’s built-in predictive text dictionary; also, the unit automatically keeps track of any inputted terms.[80]

Credit cards and electronic money (via the Edy system) are two ways PlayStation 3 owners in Japan can purchase content through the Japanese PlayStation Network Store. On May 8, 2007 Sony Computer Entertainment announced PlayStation Network Tickets, a form of electronic money that can be used with the Store. PlayStation Network Tickets, set to be available in units of 1,000, 3,000, 5,000, and 10,000 yen, can be purchased at convenience stores throughout Japan. Each ticket contains a 12 digit code which can be inputted to the PlayStation Network to place credits in the virtual wallet.

The tickets will be available through electronic kiosks at 26,000 convenience stores, including Lawsons, Family Mart, Daily Yamazaki, Mini Stop and Sunkus. There will also be 26,000 post office ATM machines for use to pay for the tickets, although registeration is required first via a special mobile website.

This system is a bit different from the card systems that Microsoft and Nintendo use for their virtual shops. Wii and Xbox Live point cards are available for purchase at standard retailers throughout Japan. Sony has yet to announce a similar program for markets outside of Japan.

PlayStation Home

Main article: PlayStation Home

During the 2007 Game Developers Conference, Sony announced PlayStation Home, a new community based service for the PlayStation Network, which allows users to create an avatar character for their PlayStation 3 console. This avatar will get their own house, which can be adorned by items players can receive in several achievements. In the future the service will also expand, allowing players to have more sorts of clothing, as well as hold pets. Home will be a Second Life-like experience and will allow gamers everywhere to interact in a virtual world. Home will also act as a meeting place of sorts for players who want to play multiplayer games on the PlayStation 3. During a video demonstration of Home, Sony said that a Home icon and options will be added to the Cross Media Bar (XMB), so it is expected to be available through a firmware update or separate download from within the PlayStation Store. A closed beta is in progress in Europe while a bigger, "open" Beta will be available sometime this summer.[81] The final release is expected in September. Home will be a free service for all PlayStation 3 users.

PlayStation Portable connectivity

The PlayStation Portable can connect with the PlayStation 3 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.[82] Although this feature did not make it in the final release, Sony confirmed that such connectivity between the two consoles remains an option for the future.[83] In addition, it is possible to download PlayStation 1 games to the PlayStation 3 from the PlayStation Store. These games were not originally playable on the PS3; however, they could be sent to a PSP, and played using the PSP's PlayStation Emulator. Sony added support for playing downloaded PS titles on PS3 on April 18, 2007, with the update to firmware revision 1.70.[84][85]

Sony has also demonstrated the PSP playing back video content, including 1080p content from the PlayStation 3 hard disk across an ad-hoc wireless network. This feature is referred to as Remote Play.[86]

PlayStation 3 cluster

Given the computing capabilities of the machine, there is some interest in using PS3 to build supercomputers for high-performance computing[87] (the NCSA has already built a cluster based on the PlayStation 2).[88] Terra Soft Solutions has a version of Yellow Dog Linux for the PlayStation 3[89] and sells PS3s with Linux pre-installed,[90] in single units, 6 and 32 Node clusters.[91] In addition, RapidMind is pushing their stream programming package for the PS3.[92]

On January 3 2007, Dr. Frank Mueller, Associate Professor of Computer Science at NCSU, clustered 8 PS3s. Mueller commented that the 512 MB of system RAM is a limitation for this particular application, and is considering attempting to retrofit more RAM. Software includes: Fedora Core 5 Linux ppc64, MPICH2, OpenMP v2.5, GNU Compiler Collection and CellSDK 1.1.[93][94][95]

On March 15 2007, SCE and Stanford University announced that the Folding@home project would be expanded to the PS3.[96] Along with thousands of PCs already joined over the Internet, PS3 owners are able to lend the computing power of their game systems to the study of improper protein folding and associated diseases (such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, cystic fibrosis and several forms of cancer). The software was included as part of the 1.6 firmware update (March 22, 2007), and can be set to run manually or automatically when the PS3 is idle through the Cross Media Bar. The processed information is then sent back to project's central servers over the Internet. Processing power from PS3 users is greatly contributing to the Folding@home project, and PS3s have overtaken all other participating operating systems in teraflops contributed.[97][98] As of April 23 2007, more than 250,000 PS3 owners have allowed the Folding@home software to be run on their systems, averaging over 400 teraflops and peaking at over 700. By comparison, the world's most powerful supercomputer, Blue Gene has a peak performance of 280.6 teraflops. [99]

Hardware

Silver PlayStation 3 at E3 2006

Unless otherwise noted, the following specifications are based on a press release by Sony at the 2005 E3 Conference,[100] and slides from a Sony presentation at the 2006 Game Developer's Conference.[101]

Central processing unit

Main article: Cell microprocessor

The PS3's 3.2 GHz Cell processor, developed jointly by Sony, Toshiba and IBM ("STI"), is an implementation to dynamically assign physical processor cores to do different types of work independently. It has a PowerPC-based "Power Processing Element" (PPE) and six accessible 3.2 GHz Synergistic Processing Elements (SPEs). A seventh runs in a special mode and is dedicated to aspects of the OS and security, and an eighth is disabled to improve production yields. The PPE, SPEs and other elements ("units") are connected via an Element Interconnect Bus which serves to connect all of the units in a ring-style bus. The PPE has a 512-KB level 2 cache and one VMX vector unit. Each SPE is a RISC processor with 128-bit SIMD GPRs and superscalar functions. Each SPE contains 256 KB of non-cached memory (local storage, "LS") that is shared by program code and work data. SPEs may access more data in the main memory using DMA. The floating point performance of the whole system (CPU + GPU) is reported to be 2 TFLOPS.[100] PlayStation 3's Cell CPU achieves 204 GFLOPS single precision float and 15 GFLOPS double precision. The PS3 has 256 MB of Rambus XDR DRAM, clocked at CPU die speed.

The Cell microprocessor allows programmers to assign SPEs different work by running individual programs on them. Programmers may also arrange data flow in different ways. As an example for parallel processing performance gains, one core could work on decoding and multiplexing audio, another core may perform computations on realistic projectiles ballistics, while another might govern the activities of the main character. The programmer still has three more cores not yet assigned but the only remaining tasks are to collect the work performed and display the results on the screen. Since the program code on each SPE core is executed from its local store memory, much more Element Interconnect Bus bandwidth is available to transfers of work data. An obvious downside to this is that there is a 256-KB size restriction on SPE programs, which may present a challenge for certain programming tasks.

Graphics processing unit

Main article: RSX 'Reality Synthesizer'

The Graphics Processing Unit is based on the NVIDIA G70 (previously known as NV47) architecture, which focuses on maximizing per-pixel computation in favor of raw pixel output. The GPU makes use of 256 MB GDDR3 VRAM clocked at 550 MHz with an effective transmission rate of 1.3 GHz and the XDR main memory via the CPU.

Connectivity

The article Blu-ray Disc contains related information.

The PS3 supports numerous SDTV and HDTV resolutions (from 480i up to 1080p) and connectivity options (such as HDMI 1.3[102] and component video).[103] In terms of audio, the PS3 supports a number of formats, including 7.1 digital audio, Dolby TrueHD, and others; audio output is possible over stereo RCA cables (analog), optical digital cables, or HDMI. For the optical disc drive, a wide variety of DVD and CD formats are supported, as well as Blu-ray Discs. A 20 GB / 60 GB / 80 GB 2.5" SATA 150 hard disk is pre-installed. In the 60 GB and 80 GB configurations, flash memory can also be used — either Memory Sticks, CompactFlash cards, or SD/MMC cards. All models support USB memory devices; flash drives and external hard drives are both automatically recognized. However, they must be formatted with the FAT32 file system[104] — the PS3 does not support the Microsoft-developed NTFS file system that is the standard for Windows NT and its descendants Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and Windows Vista). For communication, the PS3 has one Gigabit Ethernet port, four USB 2.0 ports, Bluetooth 2.0 support, and built-in Wi-Fi on the 60 GB & 80 GB versions.

Form factor and power consumption

The console has many ventilation holes, a single large fan, and uses heat pipes. Physically, the PlayStation 3 is approximately 5 kg (11 lb), 32.5 cm (W) × 9.8 cm (H) × 27.4 cm (D) (12.8 in. × 3.9 in. × 10.8 in.).[22] The power supply is built into the console and a standard 3-pin IEC connector is present at the base of the console. All current PS3 power supplies are Universal 100V-240V/50–60 Hz and will work worldwide, external power markings only relate to the intended market area [citation needed]. The power consumption ranges from 150–200 watts during normal use, despite having a 380 watt power supply.[105] The power supply has power factor correction.

Official accessories

Main article: PlayStation 3 accessories
File:Sixaxis2.jpg
The PS3 SIXAXIS controller

The PlayStation 3 SIXAXIS[106] is a controller that is very similar in appearance to that of its predecessors, the DualShock and DualShock 2. The SIXAXIS features finer analog sensitivity;[107] more trigger-like R2 and L2 buttons; a PS (“home”) button; and a USB mini-B port for charging the internal battery and for wired play. The PlayStation 3 supports up to 7 simultaneous controllers over Bluetooth.[22] The SIXAXIS is named for its ability to detect motion in the full six degrees; however, unlike the PlayStation 2's DualShock, the new controller has no vibration feature. The controller retails for US$49.99. However, the support for legacy vibration peripherals introduced in software update v1.70 opens up speculation that a new controller with full vibration features may be released in the future.

The PlayStation 3 Memory Card Adaptor is a device that allows data to be transferred from PlayStation and PlayStation 2 memory cards to the PlayStation 3's hard disk. The device has a cable that connects to the PS3's USB port on one end, and features a legacy PS2 memory card port on the other end. The adaptor is available at a price of US$14.99 in the United States and JP¥1500 (including tax) in Japan.

Using Bluetooth, the PlayStation 3 BD Remote allows users to control videos and music on Blu-ray Disc and DVD. In Japan, the device was available starting December 7, 2006, and costs JP¥3,800. The device is also currently available in North America for US$24.99;[108] however, the PS3 will accept signals only via its Bluetooth Remote, as the console does not have an infrared receiver. This prevents the use of universal remotes with the system. The Blu-ray Disc movie Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby was included with the initial 400,000 release copies of the PS3 in North America,[109] while the first 500,000 European PlayStation Network activations after launch received a free copy of the Blu-Ray release of Casino Royale.[110]

Official PlayStation 3 HDMI cables retail for US$59.99. An official component AV cable is available for US$19.99.

On April 25, 2007, Sony announced the PlayStation Eye. This is an updated version of the PlayStation 2 peripheral, the EyeToy. The camera is capable of capturing 60 frames per second video at 640×480 resolution and 120 fps video at 320×240 resolution. The four-channel microphone on the Eye can block out background noise. The camera will support live video chat and voice chat without a headset, and will be launched in Japan in the fall of 2007. Upon its initial release there, it will be bundled with the card game The Eye of Judgment: Conquerors of 9 Fields; pricing information is not currently available. Sony also announced that the release date for North America and Europe should be during the 'summer' to coincide with the launch of SingStar for PlayStation 3. Exact dates have not yet been announced.

Publicity and reception

The Playstation 3 was first advertised in the US in September 2006, in which several TV advertisements demonstrated some of the features of the console. In early 2007, Sony Computer Entertainment began to market the console in Europe, with a marketing slogan "This is Living".

Microsoft's MSN reviewed the PlayStation 3 saying "The PS3 is a versatile and impressive piece of home-entertainment equipment that lives up to the hype ... the PS3 is well worth its hefty price tag."[111] CNET awarded it a high score of 8.8 out of a possible 10 and voted it as their number one must-have gadget,[112] praising its robust graphical capabilities and stylish exterior design while criticizing its limited selection of available games.[113] Hexus Gaming reviewed the PAL version and summed the review up by saying, "...as the PlayStation 3 matures and developers start really pushing it, we’ll see the PlayStation 3 emerge as the console of choice for gaming."[114] At GDC 2007, Shiny Entertainment founder Dave Perry stated, "I think that Sony has made the best machine. It's the best piece of hardware, without question."[115]

Both Home Theater Magazine and Ultimate AV have given the console's Blu-ray playback very favorable reviews, stating that the quality of playback exceeds that of many current standalone Blu-ray and HD DVD players.[116][117]

Conversely, the PS3 was given the number-eight spot on PC World magazine’s list of “The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006,” where it was criticized for being “Late, Expensive, and Incompatible.”[118] GamesRadar ranked the PS3 as the top item in a feature about game-related PR disasters, asking how Sony managed to "take one of the most anticipated game consoles of all time and — within the space of a year — turn it into a hate object reviled by the entire internet," but added that despite its problems the console had "untapped potential".[119]

References

  1. ^ Shilov, Anton (2006-07-18). "Asustek Computer Ships PlayStation 3 Consoles". X-bit labs. Retrieved 2007-05-05. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  2. ^ Radd, David (2007-03-07). "Consumers Can't Resist Resistance". GamesDaily.biz. Retrieved 2007-04-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  3. ^ Ansatsu (2005-12-06). "The Reason Why PLAYSTATION Is In Capitals". Techzone. Retrieved 2006-08-19. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  4. ^ a b HD Update Coming to Sony PlayStation 3 Sci-Tech Today, May 23, 2007
  5. ^ Thorsen, Tor (2007-04-11). "20 GB PS3 officially discontinued in North America". GameSpot. Retrieved 2007-04-15. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  6. ^ Gantayat, Anoop (2007-04-12). "Sony Continues 20 Gig PS3 in Japan". IGN. Retrieved 2007-04-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  7. ^ a b Sony (2007-05-21). "Sony Computer Entertainment Korea". Retrieved 2007-05-21.
  8. ^ a b Tom Ivan (2007-06-10). "Reeves: No PAL 80GB PS3 Plans". Next-Gen.biz. Retrieved 2007-06-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  9. ^ Shilov, Anton (2006-06-06). "Developers Use Personal Computers to Show PS3 Advantages". xbitlabs. Retrieved 2006-07-24. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  10. ^ "IGN's Official PlayStation 3 FAQ". IGN PlayStation 3. 2007-03-26. pp. 1 of 4. Retrieved 2007-04-23. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  11. ^ a b Anoop Gantayat (2006-09-22). "TGS 2006: Price Drop For Japanese PS3". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2007-01-15. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  12. ^ "Sony announces 27 playable titles for the September Tokyo Game Show". IGN. 2006-08-16. Retrieved 2006-08-16. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  13. ^ "Foreigners And Fights, PS3 JPN Launch's Dark Side". Kotaku. 2006-11-11. Retrieved 2006-11-12.
  14. ^ "週間ソフト・セルスルーランキング" (in Japanese). Media Create Co. Retrieved 2006-11-16.
  15. ^ "1 Shot in Conn. Playstation Waiting Line". ABC News. 2006-11-17. Retrieved 2006-11-17. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  16. ^ "Camping PlayStation gamers robbed at gunpoint". KMTR. Retrieved 2006-11-17.
  17. ^ "Four People Shot While Waiting for PlayStation Console, Including 27 NEWSFIRST Reporter". WKYT News. 2006-11-16. Retrieved 2006-11-17. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  18. ^ "Playstation3 Crowd Gets More Than It Bargained for in Tysons". WTOP News. 2006-11-17. Retrieved 2006-11-17. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  19. ^ IGN Staff (2006-11-27). "Faking a Holdup". IGN PS3. Retrieved 2007-05-20. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  20. ^ "PLAYSTATION®3 HDD 20 GB EQUIPPED WITH HDMI AS STANDARD" (PDF) (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment. 2006-09-22. Retrieved 2007-05-24. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  21. ^ Thorsen, Tor (2007-04-11). "20 GB PS3 officially discontinued in North America". GameSpot. Retrieved 2007-04-15. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  22. ^ a b c "About PlayStation­®3 - Technical Specifications". PlayStation.com. Retrieved 2007-01-02. {{cite web}}: soft hyphen character in |title= at position 18 (help)
  23. ^ Ellie Gibson (2006-05-16). "20 GB PlayStation 3 will be upgradeable, says Sony". gamesindustry.biz. Retrieved 2006-05-16. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  24. ^ Patrick Klepek (2007-05-18). "NPD Fallout: Sony Blames April on Lack of Software". 1up.com. Retrieved 2007-05-18. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  25. ^ a b "Sony Ships 1 Million PS3s in N. America". CBS News. 2007-01-07. Retrieved 2007-04-22. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  26. ^ a b "PS3 Shipments Hit 2 Million Worldwide". Gamasutra. 2007-01-07. Retrieved 2007-04-22. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  27. ^ "Nintendo's Wii outsells Sony's PS3 fivefold in Japan in May - research firm". Forbes.com. 2007-06-05. Retrieved 2007-06-13. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  28. ^ David Reeves (2007-06-08). "The PS3 powers on". MCVUK. Retrieved 2007-06-08. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  29. ^ "Sony sells 36,000 PS3s down under". Playstation Universe. 2007-05-02. Retrieved 2007-05-03. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  30. ^ a b James Brightman (2007-05-16). "3.6 Million PS3s Sold". Game Daly. Retrieved 2007-05-16. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  31. ^ "Playstation boss pays the price of weak sales". Times Online. 2007-04-27. Retrieved 2007-04-27. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  32. ^ Shilov, Anton (2007-01-17). "Sony PlayStation 3–Widely Available, Nintendo Wii – Out of Stock". X-bit Labs. Retrieved 2007-02-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  33. ^ Reddish, Steve (2007-01-22). "PS3 Price Cut by Japanese Retailers". DigitalBattle. Retrieved 2007-02-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  34. ^ Goldstein, Hilary (2006-11-16). "Sony Losing Almost $250 per Console". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2006-11-17. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  35. ^ Brightman, James (2007-05-16). "3.6 Million PS3s Sold; Sony Profit Falls 68%". GameDaily BIZ. Retrieved 2007-06-09. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  36. ^ "IGN's Official PlayStation 3 FAQ". IGN PlayStation 3. 2007-03-26. pp. 3 of 4. Retrieved 2007-05-02. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  37. ^ GameSpot Staff (2006-12-21). "Best Games and Worst Games of 2006 at GameSpot - Best PlayStation 3 Game". GameSpot. Retrieved 2007-04-30. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  38. ^ IGN Staff (2006-12-21). "IGN.com presents The Best of 2006 - PlayStation 3: Game of the Year". IGN.com. Retrieved 2007-04-30. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  39. ^ IGN PlayStation Team (2007). "Release Dates". IGN PS3. Retrieved 2007-04-21.
  40. ^ Hirohiko Niizumi (2005-06-30). "COLLADA approved as an open standard". GameSpot. Retrieved 2006-08-22. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Cite has empty unknown parameters: |accessyear=, |month=, |accessmonthday=, and |coauthors= (help)
  41. ^ Arnaud, Rémi. "PS3 to include parental controls" (PDF). Khronos Group. Retrieved 2006-05-24. {{cite web}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  42. ^ "Sony Computer Entertainment Enters Into Strategic Licensing Agreement With AGEIA" (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. 2005-07-21. Retrieved 2006-08-23. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  43. ^ "Strategic Licensing Agreement with SCEA". Retrieved 2006-08-01. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |org= ignored (help)
  44. ^ "Kynogon joins SCEI's "PLAYSTATION®3" Tools & Middleware program" (PDF) (Press release). Kynogon. 2006-01-25. Retrieved 2006-05-18. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  45. ^ "Juniper Networks on IPv6 and MPLS networking in Asia – Part I". DigiTimes Publication. Retrieved 2005-06-10.
  46. ^ "PlayStation 3 Hard Drive Usage Clarified". 2006-10-23. Retrieved 2007-01-25.
  47. ^ "Killzone footage used to hype PlayStation Edge". 2007-03-07.
  48. ^ Gantayat, Anoop (2006-06-05). "Sony Bundles PS2 With PS3". IGN. Retrieved 2006-06-06. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  49. ^ "PlayStation 3 in Europe will play fewer old games". Yahoo. 2007-02-23. Retrieved 2007-02-23.
  50. ^ Yu, James (2006-10-27). "PlayStation 3 Backward Compatibility Testing". GameSpot. Retrieved 2006-10-27.
  51. ^ "North America and Japan lose PS2 Emotion Engine". PSU. 2007-03-24. Retrieved 2007-03-24.
  52. ^ "Guitar Hero II Compatible with PS3?". IGN.com. 2006-11-10. Retrieved 2006-11-18. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  53. ^ "Nyko Play Adaptor Cancelled". qj.net. 2007-03-30. Retrieved 2006-04-09. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  54. ^ "Playstation 3 Supports PS2/PS1 Memory Cards". Console Watcher. 2006-08-11. Retrieved 2006-08-12. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  55. ^ Elle Cayabyab Gitlin (2005-08-01). "More PS3 details emerge in print". Ars Technica. Retrieved 2006-07-19. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Cite has empty unknown parameters: |curly=, |accessyear=, |coauthors=, and |month= (help)
  56. ^ "PlayStation 3 Unable to Play Some of Sony's Earlier Games". Associated Press. 2006-11-15. Retrieved 2006-11-15. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  57. ^ Haynes, Jeff (2007-01-24). "PS3 Updated to 1.50". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  58. ^ Edge Online (2007-02-23). "Sony rethinks Euro PS3 backwards compatibility". Retrieved 2007-04-28.
  59. ^ "72% of PS2 Games Work on EU PS3s". Retrieved 2007-03-20.
  60. ^ "Sony Computer Entertainment Business Data". Retrieved 2007-03-11.
  61. ^ "The Top 25 PS2 Games of All Time". IGN. Retrieved 2007-03-28.
  62. ^ Eda, Rocky (2006-11-08). "Along with Cell, First Generation PS3 Features EE, GS Developed for PS2". Tech-On!. Retrieved 2007-04-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  63. ^ "Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Announces Hardware Specification of PLAYSTATION®3 for Europe" (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. 2007-02-23. Retrieved 2007-04-25. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  64. ^ a b "Check whether your PlayStation® (PS one®) and PlayStation®2 games are playable on your PLAYSTATION®3". Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-25.
  65. ^ "North America and Japan lose PS2 Emotion Engine". PlayStation Universe. 2007-03-16. Retrieved 2007-03-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  66. ^ "PLAYSTATION 3 System Software updates - Update features (ver 1.81)". Sony. 2007-06-15. Retrieved 2007-06-15. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  67. ^ "PLAYSTATION®3 - Network - Updates - Version 1.80". SCEA. 2007-05-24. Retrieved 2007-05-24. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  68. ^ "About XMB ([[Cross Media Bar]])". Sony Computer Entertainment. 2007. Retrieved 2006-11-10. {{cite web}}: URL–wikilink conflict (help)
  69. ^ Williams, David (2006-09-19). "PlayStation's serious side: Fighting disease". CNN News. Retrieved 2006-09-21.
  70. ^ "Install Other OS". PlayStation 3 User's Guide. Sony Computer Entertainment. 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-25.
  71. ^ Ubuntu Forums (2007-01-20). "HOWTO: Install Ubuntu on PS3 from Live CD". Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd. pp. 1 of 22. Retrieved 2007-04-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  72. ^ "PS3 Linux Adventures". 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-25.
  73. ^ "Debian Live for PS3". Retrieved 2007-03-04.
  74. ^ Boyes, Emma (2006-11-27). "Yellow Dog Linux launches for PS3". GameSpot. Retrieved 2006-11-30.
  75. ^ "Linux Kernel Overview". Retrieved 2007-01-21.
  76. ^ Carless, Simon (2006-05-12). "E3: Kawanishi Talks Homebrew Linux PS3 Development". Gamasutra. Retrieved 2006-05-24.
  77. ^ "PlayStation 3 announced for 2006". GameSpot. 2005-05-16. Retrieved 2007-04-04. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  78. ^ ng-gamer.nl - Translated with Babelfish
  79. ^ "Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How do I set up my PLAYSTATION®Network master account or sub account?". SCEA Regional Online Manual. Sony Computer Entertainment America. pp. 1 of 4. Retrieved 2007-01-19.
  80. ^ a b "PlayStation­­ 3 System Setup and Usage - Using the On-Screen Keyboard". SCEA Regional Online Manual. Sony Computer Entertainment America. Retrieved 2007-01-19. {{cite web}}: soft hyphen character in |title= at position 12 (help)
  81. ^ "IGN: Europeans Go Home". IGN PlayStation 3. 2007-05-01. Retrieved 2007-05-02. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  82. ^ Haynes, Jeff (2006-05-08). "E3 2006: Formula One 06 Resurfaces". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2007-01-21.
  83. ^ Martijn Müller (March 1, 2007). "PlayStation 3 launch interview". NG-Gamer.
  84. ^ Deleon, Nicholas (2006-12-07). "Downloadable PS1 Games Hit The PSP (Provided You Have a PS3)". Gizmodo. Retrieved 2007-01-21.
  85. ^ Kennedy, Sam (2006-10-20). "Phil Harrison Talks Downloadable PS1 Games on PS3". 1up.com. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
  86. ^ Nix, Marc (2006-10-20). "PSP and PS3 Play Together". IGN PSP. Retrieved 2007-01-21.
  87. ^ "Building Supercomputer Using Playstation 3". Console Watcher.com. 2006-08-28. Retrieved 2006-08-28. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  88. ^ "Scientific Computing on the Sony PlayStation 2". NCSA.
  89. ^ "Terra Soft to Provide Linux for PLAYSTATION 3". Terra Soft.
  90. ^ "Linux pre-installed on PS3". Terra Soft.
  91. ^ "Linux clusters". Terra Soft. Retrieved 2007-06-05.
  92. ^ "RapidMind and Terra Soft partner to unleash PlayStation 3 for Linux". RapidMind.
  93. ^ "Engineer Creates First Academic Playstation 3 Computing Cluster". PhysOrg.com.
  94. ^ "NC State Engineer Creates First Academic Playstation 3 Computing Cluster". College of Engineering, North Carolina State University.
  95. ^ "Sony PS3 Cluster (IBM Cell BE)". Frank Mueller, Associate Professor, College of Engineering, North Carolina State University.
  96. ^ "Folding@home". Sony Computer Entertainment. Retrieved 2007-03-18.
  97. ^ "PS3 doubles Folding@Home's processing power".
  98. ^ "Folding@Home - Client statistics by OS".
  99. ^ BBC News (2007-04-26). "PS3 boosts protein research plan". Retrieved 2007-04-26.
  100. ^ a b "SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT INC. TO LAUNCH ITS NEXT GENERATION COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM, PLAYSTATION®3 IN SPRING 2006" (PDF) (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. 2005-05-16. Retrieved 2006-05-26. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  101. ^ "Slides from Sony's 2006 GDC Presentation". Game Watch. Retrieved 2006-05-25.
  102. ^ "Press Releases". hdmi.org. Retrieved 2006-11-20.
  103. ^ "Video Output Settings". Sony Computer Entertainment. Retrieved 2006-11-10.
  104. ^ Kiss, Tom (2007-03-25). "USB HDD not working with PlayStation 3? Format as FAT32..." TomKiss.net. Retrieved 2007-06-19. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  105. ^ "Blu-rayの起爆剤「PLAYSTATION 3」のAV機能を試す。" (in Japanese). AV Watch. 2006-11-11. Retrieved 2007-02-19. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  106. ^ "ACCESSORIES FOR PLAYSTATION®3 BECOME AVAILABLE" (PDF) (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment. 2006-10-03. Retrieved 2006-10-03.
  107. ^ "SCE ANNOUNCES NEW CONTROLLER FOR PLAYSTATION®3" (PDF) (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. 2006-05-09. Retrieved 2006-05-24. {{cite press release}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  108. ^ Adams, David (2006-10-19). "Kaz Reveals PS3 Pack-ins, Pricing". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  109. ^ Raby, Mark (2006-10-20). "Sony unveils details of PS3 online services". Tom's Guide Publishing. Retrieved 2007-01-24. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  110. ^ "CASINO ROYALE FOR FIRST 500,000 PS3 REGISTRANTS". Three Speech. 2007-02-12. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  111. ^ Carnoy, Dave (2007). "PS3 Reviewed". CNet.co.uk. Retrieved 2007-04-21. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  112. ^ CNET Staff (2006-11-21). "Top 10 Must-haves". CNET. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  113. ^ Carnoy, David (2006-11-14). "Sony PlayStation 3 (60 GB) Reviews". CNET. Retrieved 2007-02-03. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  114. ^ Haywood, Nick (2007-03-23). "Review :: Sony PlayStation 3". HEXUS.gaming. pp. 6 of 6. Retrieved 2007-04-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  115. ^ Gibson, Ellie (2007-03-07). "GDC: What's Next for PS3?". GamesIndustry.biz. Retrieved 2007-04-25. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  116. ^ Chiarella, Chris (2006). "Sony PlayStation 3". Home Theater Magazine. Primedia Magazines, Inc. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  117. ^ Buettner, Shane C. (2006). "PlayStation3 Blu-ray Disc Player". Primedia Magazines, Inc. pp. 4 of 6. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  118. ^ Tynan, Dan (2006-12-20). "The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006". PC World. Retrieved 2007-02-03. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  119. ^ Reparaz, Mikel (2007-03-21). "The Top 7... PR disasters". GamesRadar. Retrieved 2007-03-21. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help); Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
Wikimedia Commons has media related to PlayStation 3.
Official websites

PlayStation 3 auxiliary sites by Sony

Unofficial websites
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=PlayStation_3&oldid=139231591"