PS3 Emulators


Finally FCEU for PS3 is ready for release. The updates will come often now.

Supports: 480, 720, 1080P at either 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio.
Not yet supported but to be desired: SRAM and state saving.

Please visit: https://code.google.com/p/fceu-ps3/

Reports bug and feature requests: https://code.google.com/p/fceu-ps3/issues/list

Special thanks:

- To the snes9x-ps3 team (TheMaister, Squarepusher64 and myself shinhalsafar).

NOTES: (Taken from the README)

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FCEU-PS3

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CURRENTLY IMPLEMENTED FCEU FUNCTIONS
========================
- Just enough to play a ROM
- 4P Support

CONTROLS IN ROM MENU
========================
Up – Go up
Down – Go down
Left – Go back five file entries
Right – Go forward five file entries
L1 – Go back one page
R1 – Go forward one page

Cross – (If directory selected) enter directory/ (if ROM selected) start ROM
Triangle – Same as Cross
Circle – (If not in root directory) Go back to previous directory
L2 + R2 – (If you previously exited a ROM) return to game
Select – Go to settings menu (see ‘CONTROLS IN SETTINGS MENU’ section)

CONTROLS IN SETTINGS MENU
========================
Up – Go up one setting
Down – Go down one setting
Left – Change setting to the left
Right – Change setting to the right

Circle – Go back to ROM menu

EXPLANATION OF SETTINGS MENU
========================
Display framerate – This will show the FPS (Frames Per Second) onscreen
Resolution – Switch between resolutions – 480p mode, 720p mode and 1080p mode (depending on your monitor’s supported resolutions)
Aspect Ratio – Switch between aspect ratios 4:3 and 16:10 (16:9 will come shortly, for now choose 16:10 on widescreen – perhaps small
cutoff at left and right))
Hardware Filtering – Switch between Linear interpolation (Bilinear filtering) and Point filtering.

CONTROLS IN-GAME
========================
Nothing worth really explaining here -

R3 + L3 – Press these two buttons together while in-game to go back to the ROM browser menu.

TIP: You can use any USB controller you like and it will map the buttons on the fly – it is even possible to hotswap joysticks – remove one from the
USB port, replace it with another one – it should all work fine. even SNES-to-USB converters should work.

To play a game with a USB controller as Player 1, start up your PS3 and rather than using the Sixaxis/DualShock3, plug in an USB port before
connecting the controller to the PS3 – your USB pad should then become Controller 1.

SOURCE CODE REPOSITORY
========================
This release corresponds with revision = 768cf9df52

Source code repository is here:

https://code.google.com/p/fceu-ps3/

COMPILATION INSTRUCTIONS
========================
NOTE: ONLY FOLLOW STEP 1 IF YOU HAVE SDK 1.92 OR LOWER
1 – Edit the Makefile and remove the following from PPU_CXX_FLAGS and PPU_CFLAGS:

-DPS3_SDK_3_41

3 – Do ‘make clean && make && make pkg’

CURRENTLY KNOWN ISSUES (AS OF BUILD 4.3.8)
========================
* Please start reporting them on the google code bug tracker

HD TV USERS
========================
* For people running this on HDTVs complaining about input lag:
- Turn off all post-processing filters you may have running – on Sony Bravia HDTVs, display Motion Flow (this also causes input lags
with most games in general, not just this SNES emu. If your HDTV has a ‘Game’ mode or something of the sort, select that as well.

PERFORMANCE NOTES
========================
* 100% everywhere, let me know otherwise.

PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS
========================
- SRAM save
- State save
- Filters
- GameGenie

SPECIAL THANKS
========================
- See the entire snes9x-ps3 team.

Files can be downloaded via source.

Source: PSGroove

 
PS3 Emulators


Over at PSX-Scene, member lousyphreak had announced a couple of days ago about his current work on porting the ScummVM emulator to the PlayStation 3 console. For anyone that does not have a clue on what ScummVM is, take a look at this site here: scummvm.org. It has a ton of info on what ScummVm is and does. But basically:

ScummVM is a program which allows you to run certain classic graphical point-and-click adventure games, provided you already have their data files. The clever part about this: ScummVM just replaces the executables shipped with the games, allowing you to play them on systems for which they were never designed!

A quote from the man himself:

Hi, I am currently working on a ScummVM port for the PS3, much of it already works, but there are still some points which need fixing. The Source is located at lousyphreak's scummvm-ps3 at ps3 - GitHub it builds with the leaked 1.92 SDK, no .pkg yet, it needs to be launched via the homebrew mode of Gaia Manager (the only one i tested it with)

What works:
1.) most of it

What doesn't:
I have only tried a handful of games, this list is by far not complete.

1.) You will get corrupted palettes in most games (corruption is usually just minor)
2.) Beneath a Steel Sky crashes during the intro
3.) Many scumm games crash when showing the overlay (Start button)
4.) in some games the cursor has no transparent colors
5.) slowdowns may occur
6.) MT32 emu shows problems at least in MI2

Source Code: Github
Source: PSX-Scene

 
PS3 Commercial News

PS Samurai PS3 JailBreak USB Modchip
Manufacturer: PS Samurai
Site: Buy from PS Samurai Distributors
Price: $25.00


Overview : Unlike others, PS SAMURAI uses its own, custom programming software for PC and MAC; has a recovery function, very useful after a bad flash; uses 32KB on-board flash (majority uses 16KB); delivered with no code inside which means it is 100% legal; device is rubbercoated and designed to enhance protection and grip and can be afford by ordinary people. THIS DOES NOT WORK ON FIRMWARES 3.42 OR ABOVE UNTIL A NEW EXPLOIT/METHOD IS FOUND!

Requirements :

  • PS3 Console (fat or slim)
  • Console (firmware) version 3.41 only
  • Remove all discs from the drive
  • Do not connect any devices to the console via USB
  • IMPORTANT: The console must be completely switched off before using PS SAMURAI. For fat versions, use the switch at the rear. For slim versions, simply remove the power cable. This is extremely important for the process to work correctly when you start the console.

Features :

  • USB Plug and Play solution that installs in seconds without any need to open up the PS3.
  • Does not break your warranty seal.
  • Compatible with all PS3 models*, both Fat and Slim.
  • Supports all regions: USA, JAP, PAL and KOREA.
  • Fully updatable via USB on your PC using an encrypted bootloader
  • 32KB onboard flash (most competing products only have 16KB flash)
  • Disables forced software updates and will never brick your console.
  • Supports most games and homebrew applications.
  • Easy-to-use software for backing up, managing, and playing games from external USB Hard Drive.
  • Playing games from HDD is much more enjoyable, benefiting from greatly enhanced seek and loading times.
  • Supports installing homebrew application on PS3 and external USB media.
  • Optionally PS Samurai can be supplied with an “open” firmware which does not support backup loading. Users would then have to download a firmware update for PS Samurai to get full functionality.
    * Currently not compatible with 3.42 firmware

Quality/Usability : The first thing that comes to mind when you look at PS Samurai (or atleast for me) is the infamous picture of the red dongle from PSJailbreak. I thought it was a mock-up image of PS Samurai's dongle but after receiving it, its not. PS Samurai comes in a small anti-static bag like majority of dongles that are being shipped out. The dongle is covered with a red rubber cover which not only protects the dongle but makes a great grip. The rubber cover can be easily slipped on and off. Removing the rubber cover exposes the metal casing. This casing itself looks exactly like the PSJailbreak, PS3Key and AVRKey. There is also no writing or logo on the housing. The dongle measures approximately 1.25" (length) x 0.50" (wide) without the rubber cap. Like the PS3Key and AVRKey, PS Samurai is running on ATMEL MEGA32U2 (ATMEGA32U2) and is upgradeable via USB port. The USB board also contains two leds; red and green. Red is for when the jailbreak is being performed and Green for when it is successful.

Instructions on How to Load PS Samurai firmware, HEX (.hex) Files, Import Payloads (.bin) or ERASE files :
Required files:


Before you start, you MUST download Microsoft's Visual C++. Without this, PS Samurai's Upgrader software will not work and will give an error when you try and open it. Once you've downloaded C++, download PS Samurai's Upgrader software via link above. To get the PS Samurai into Update Mode, all you have to do is insert the dongle into the USB port on your computer. When it enters into update mode, no LED is lit up but when you open the software, it will tell you if the dongle is connected. You can also tell by the little pop-up notifications on Windows. I like how the PS Samurai Upgrader software is set up, however each time there is a new software file, you'll have to download the newest upgrader software for the latest updates. It would be convenient if there was an option to check for the latest software or files and download it over the software rather than go to their site and download the latest software. On the Upgrader software, you're able to load their own proprietary file (PSSAMURAI FIRMWARE), PSGroove HEX (.hex) files, Import payload (.bin) files or ERASE the files on the PS Samurai. So, if you want the latest updates, you can simply load the HEX files and than load PS Samurai files when it becomes available if you wanted to. To load the files, select the method you want to load your files whether it be PS Samurai's firmware, HEX files or importing payloads and select the file you want to load. Once selected, click on START and the software will begin to upgrade the dongle with the file you selected. Once completed, it will pop up with a message and click OK. Now, you're able to remove the dongle from the computer and into the PS3.

I had no problems loading and getting PS Samurai firmware and importing payloads to work on the PS3 once loaded onto the dongle. However, I went to install a Minimus HEX file (similar board to AVRKey) on PS Samurai and the software said it was completed. Went to jailbreak the PS3 and I don't see the usual files and the LED did not light up on the dongle. So I went to plug the dongle back into the USB port and I hear no ding to state that the USB is plugged in. Loaded up PS Samurai Upgrader software and it says "DEVICE NOT CONNECTED". Ut oh! Unplugged and plugged it back in and nothing. So I thought, maybe I can try and get it into update mode like the PS3Key by inserting and removing it a couple of times. Nothing. It seems the dongle is completely dead and unrecognized at all. I even inserted the dongle without the metal case and still nothing. What is weird is that even if I load the Minimus HEX on the AVRKey, it works but not on PS Samurai even though AVRKey and PS Samurai uses the same chip (ATMEGA32). Even if I was to load the wrong HEX, I should still be able to erase it or overwrite the HEX with the correct one, but that's not the case. I informed PS Samurai of my testings and they passed this information to their engineering team. PS Samurai was able to send me another dongle so I can finish up my review and testings. If it wasn't for this problem and having to wait for another dongle, this review would of been the first review to be posted.

Operation :
Once the power to your console is completely disconnected:

  • Turn on the console (PS3 Fat with the switch, PS3 Slim connecting the power cable)
  • Insert PS SAMURAI into a USB port on the PS3
  • Start up the PS3 and press the EJECT button.
  • The LED (which should have been red initially) will change to blue.
  • If the above process worked, there will be a link to “Install Package File” in the game menu.

In order to make sure the PS Samurai dongle worked flawlessly, I had to uninstall all my homebrew applications that I had originally installed. To install applications or any homebrew applications, you will need to download and save the .pkg files to a USB drive such as thumbdrive or harddrive. To install, simply insert USB drive to the PS3 and navigate to "INSTALL PACKAGE FILES" on the XMB under GAME. Select the file you want to install by pressing X and it will automatically install the file. All applications installed and loaded without any problems.

Conclusion : Overall, the PS Samurai PS3 JailBreak USB Modchip worked as stated. The metal casing is similar to all PS3Key, AVRKey, ecliPS3 and PSJailbreak but stands out with the red rubber cover. The rubber cover also allows you to get a good grip on the dongle when you need to remove it from the PS3. The part that makes it stand out from the rest of the Jailbreak dongles (at the moment) is the ability to not only load PS Samurai's own firmware, but the ability to load HEX files, import payloads and even erase files on the dongle...all within their software. So this gives you lots of options on how you want to use the PS Samurai without locking you in. My only complaint is having to delete and redownload the software if there is an updated software. It would be nice if they incorporated a way to download or upgrade the Upgrader software over the internet

At the time of this review, there is no listing of distributors or sites selling the PS Samurai and no mention of price. However, I was informed that the price would be $25USD/piece. This is very very affordable and a great price range for those interested.

Please note that none of the "upgrade" products listed in this site are endorsed by Nintendo, Sony and/or Microsoft. DCEmu Reviews and DCEmu Network does not condone piracy. The primary functions of a "modchip" and/or "flashcart" are to allow you to play imported games and homebrew software that you legally own or simply just for experimenting with hardware. We in no way endorse piracy, and encourage all users to do the right thing and support the developers/manufacturers that support them. We do not take any responsibilities for any use outside of these parameters or where the use of such a device is illegal.

Images via comments

 

 
PS3 Commercial News

Newly released today;



Over 2 million Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines wear the uniform. Of those, approximately 50 thousand fall under the direct control of the Special Operations Command. The Tier 1 Operator functions on a plane of existence above and beyond even the most highly trained Special Operations Forces. Their exact numbers, while classified, hover in the low hundreds. They are living, breathing, precision instruments of war. They are experts in the application of violence. The new Medal of Honor is inspired by and has been developed with Tier 1 Operators from this elite community. You will step into the boots of these warriors and apply their unique skill sets to a new enemy in the most unforgiving and hostile battlefield conditions of present day Afghanistan.

http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-3o2s.html

 
PS3 Commercial News

Much-delayed PlayStation 3 racing simulator Gran Turismo 5 has seen its release date go back again, just three weeks before its planned US launch on November 2.

Sony has yet to specify a new date for Polyphony Digital's one-time platform ambassador, but claims it will still arrive 'this holiday season.'

Spokespeople have confirmed the delay applies to Europe as well as the US, with the Japanese website revealing the same issue there.

No reason has been given, bar a statement on the PlayStation US blog hinting at late-in-the-day polish:

"We sincerely apologise to GT fans for the delay, however, creator Kazunori Yamauchi and the team at Polyphony Digital want to make certain they are creating the perfect racing experience, and we are confident that this ambitious game will exceed expectations when it launches."

Gran Turismo 5 has been in development for six years, and was originally revealed at E3 2006. Last year, Polyphony claimed the budget had hit $60 million.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...gran-turismo-5

 
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