Familiar with modding but new to PS2.

[nugznmugz]

Hi all, this being my first post here I think I'll get straight to the point. I have modded systems in the past, but I'm a noob when it comes to PS2. Here's my questions (that I'm sure are answered in a FAQ somewhere I just couldn't find it):


1. If I were to buy a brand new PS2 at this point, what is the most likely version I would have? Is there any advantage/disadvantage for this version compared to an older version? I would like to get a slim PS2.


2. I'm not affraid of soldering and am fairly knowledgable on the subject but for the sake of simplicity; which mod chip requires the least amount of soldering, or to phrase it better, which is the simplest to install? Keep in mind I'm not really thinking about a HD mod, I really just want to boot backups from discs.


3. What kind of software/hardware will I need to aquire for all of this to work? Do most of the mod chips have thier own dashboards/OSs?


4. Will someone provide me with just a couple of links here to get me rolling? Mainly I'd like to see pictures of assembly/disassembly and solder points.

I appreciate everything and I can't wait to become a knowledgable member of your community here.

Thanks in advance,
NNM

[CrystalChip]

Most likely a new PS2 purchased today would be a "v15". Disadvantages of the "slimline" PS2 is basically limited to the fact that you cannot install a HDD. Advantage is the integrated NIC/modem and a tight design.

All mods are basically the same to install though some clones have various gimmicks that attempt to make it easier to install. I've never installed one of them so I can't say if the work or not.

spedmetal(of Norcalmods.com) has just added an article to the CCWiki on installing a CrystalChip with many details. Much of the information is also applicable to other chips, however. http://ccwiki.psx-scene.com/index.ph...our_slim_PSTwo

Some chips supply a "dashboard", some do not. CrystalChips does, DMS4 does and Matrix Infinity has something like that too I guess. These are all supplied by the manufacturers and not created by the community like XBOX dashes.

Hope this helps and welcome to the PS2!

[EdGe7]

I wanted to extend my recommendation of the Crystal Chip to you as well. I recently bought 2 within a couple of weeks. One for my classic PS2 and one for my Slim PStwo. The soldering went very well, and I haven't soldered anything since my ViperGC, and that was only 5 or so wires. This Chip has it all, and the support from CrystalChip himself is second to none. It's comforting for me to know that he will tell you the truth... no matter what it might bring.

You looking for a mod for your PS2, look no further... CC is the way to go.

[nugznmugz]

Right on guys, I really appreciate it.