"Slim" PS-2 Modding reliability.

[retroborg]

Hello,
I was wondering if the new "Slim" PS-2 model, can be modded more easily & if they?re more reliable than the older bulky PS-2 models?
I have modded (for others) up to models 50004 V10-11 which need about 24-25 wires to be soldered on the PCB (depending on the mod chip), but I have not modded anything for almost 2 years mow, so I would like to know if the new "slim" models require less than 20 wires and if it?s more stable / reliable than the older models once it is modded?
If so, I might consider buying a new one just for that task, instead of opening my good old bulky 50004 model.

Also is it possible to play original imported Japanese PS-2 games on a un-modded PS-2 with the use of a region boot-disc like the Dreamcast. (Or any other similar method)

Any help will be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

[crans]

dms se matrix and crystal 1.1 all work fine on slim systems

[retroborg]

Thanks for the fast reply!
About how many wires will I need to solder on the "Slim" PCB & do they need to be soldered on tricky spots as they were on the 50004 model, using those mod chips which you mentioned?

Any diagrams / links?

Thanks in advance.

[wozzza2]

Thanks for the fast reply!
About how many wires will I need to solder on the "Slim" PCB & do they need to be soldered on tricky spots as they were on the 50004 model, using those mod chips which you mentioned?

Any diagrams / links?

Thanks in advance.

google around, there is absolutely no shortage of diagrams for every chip available and they will tell you everything you need to know.

[retroborg]

From experience at my previous job, PS-2 modding does not provide 100% reliability / compatibility & wears down the laser (Especially on the 50004 model which I have)

That?s why I turned towards the newer slim models in case they were more reliable systems to mod, but I might end getting Swap Magic & GameShark for the slim model instead. (I don?t like forcing the motorized tray with swap magic card/latch on my 50004 model).
Where as the Slim PS-2 has a flip-top, no motor tray and so it does not need the DVD door pried open like the bulky models.

So, How reliable is Swap Magic & GameShark on the Slim PS-2s?
How do they work exactly?
Do you have to install a small springs under the DVD's flip-top mechanism to force it open?

Does it wear down the lens like the mod chips?

And what are their game compatibility / reliability?
Can it play Japanese imports?

Thanks in advance.