FREE MC BOOT GUIDE

PS2Ident v0.821 Tool to DUMP ROMs and Manage lot of things to your console.

2015-11-24T15:52:00.001-08:00

PS2Ident is an identification tool that allows dumps of a PlayStation 2 console's ROM chips and MECHACON NVRAM to be made. It will also gather data from the console, for research purposes.
It has the following features:

Dumps ROM chips (BOOT and DVD ROM) as a whole, not according to their contents (rom0, rom1, rom2 and erom)
Coloured user interface that is easy to use.
Supports dumping to memory cards and USB mass storage devices.
Supports multi-languages, which include the 8 supported languages by the PS2
Gathers data of all known parts of the PS2.
Attempts to automatically match the chip/part name with the version number of the part.
Supports all PlayStation 2 consoles, including the SCPH-10000 and SCPH-15000, and the PSX (DVR unit).

Note: Chip and mainboard identification is currently very incomplete and inaccurate, due to a lack of data. Sometimes, Sony makes hardware revisions without changing the chip implementation numbers as well, hence why chip identification may be inaccurate. The chip and version IDs are, however, accurate since they are taken directly from the hardware.
Its database, which contains the parts and mainboard data, is managed and updated with the PlayStation 2 Ident DataBase Management System (PS2IDBMS) tool.
I made such a change because it wasn't possible to get a complete list of all PlayStation 2 models in existence. With PS2IDBMS, a spreadsheet containing all recorded models can be generated automatically.
Not to mention that the whole PS2Ident tool would have to be recompiled, whenever model data was added.

You can Download HERE

TUTORIAL PS2 VGA Cable Ways on Board.

2015-11-24T15:36:00.001-08:00

It will be great to connect your ps2 to your desktop monitor because some modern desktop monitors provide clearer pictures and smooth and sharp images.

Looking at SM, PS2 CAN output H-Sync and V-Sync, even C-Sync! So the LM1881 wouldn't be necessary at all, just a scan doubler.

The solder point you should look for is: CL213 (CSYNC) @ IC211

This is from SCPH-3900x:

OPL Manager tool to manage your games on PC.

2015-11-24T15:23:00.001-08:00

With OPL Manager you can manage your installed games on any media device that you installed them.

You can do the following with this tool.

Fix/change iso files names.
Download cover and disc art (batch and per game).
Clean your art folder for unused art.
Delete game.
Rename game.
And many more.

You can download it HERE

You can see some screen shots here.

What's new:

v.14 2014-12-13

  *Fixed crash when renaming a game in bad iso tab...

  *Fixed network mode not deleting games

  *Fixed game listing performance with many games

  *Added Italian and Russian translations

IMPORTANT NOTES (PLEASE READ!)
For those that used older CFG files for 2nd Info Page:
1) The CFG files need to be upgraded to a new version, please backup all of your original CFG before starting upgrading.
2) You can upgrade them all by going to "Batch Actions=>Upgrade old CFGs".
3) Currently only the NEW Themes released since April 22, 2014 are compatible.

Links to Compatible Templates:

ps2home.freeforums.net/thread/73/jay-jays-transparency-themes-collection
ps2home.freeforums.net/thread/75/jay-jays-cp-themes-opl
ps2home.freeforums.net/thread/74/jay-jays-black-themes-opl

4) The cover/disc/screenshot share feature it's not always on-line since its hosted on my home server.

Think i didn't forget anything. I will see if either me or jay-jay can compile some documentation for the new CFG and theme format.

ENJOY! Report bugs!

Change log:

Spoiler

v.14 2014-12-13

  *Fixed crash when renaming a game in bad iso tab...

  *Fixed network mode not deleting games

  *Fixed game listing performance with many games

  *Added Italian and Russian translations

  v.13 2014-10-26

  *Fixed crash when using some functions without any games

  *Fixed some confusion with some ratings systems

  *Cleaned a lot of unused code

  *Fixed a lot of bad programming

  *Fixed checking invalid ART size before upload

  +Added ELSPA rating

  +Added support to manage games with hdl server and ftp
  (WIP)

  +Added Chinese and French translations

  

  v.12 2014-07-15

  +Now multi-language

  +New Language: Portuguese (pt)

  +New Language: Spanish (es)

  +Cheat Editor

  *Added new genres to CFG Editor

  *Fix error when game title had invalid characters

  *Rearranged CFG Editor GUI

  

  v.11 2014-05-16

  +Anonymous app usage data. (can opt-out)

  +ART and SCR count on status bar.

  *Option to disable auto update check on startup

  *Fixed CFG Editor players text size

  *Fixed file-browser default file name

  

  v.10.1 2014-05-13

  *Quick fix for v10 not saving the folder.

  

  v.10 2014-05-09

  *Fixed Screenshot browser crash

  

  v.9 2014-05-02

  +Game Hasher MD5

  *Fixed VMC wrong filename (.bin.bin)

  

  v.8 2014-04-29

  +Auto update checker

  +Game List Order

  *Batch screenshot recode for better efficiency

  *Fixed crashes ps2linux is offline

  *Removed lost button in cfg upgrade window

  

  v.7 2014-04-22

  *Fixed asking to create vmc when it already exists

  *Fixed having to wait a moment between screenshot upload,

  otherwise a error would show up

  +Added batch screenshot sharing!

  

  v.6 2014-04-22

  +CFG Editor!!

  +VMC creator (inside cfg editor)

  +Support for screenshots!

  +Filter game list

  +Ability to double click a game and launch some app

  +Added a handy button to open the OPL folder in windows
  explorer!

  +Added support for my own art database (@
  ps2linux.no-ip.info)

  

  v.5 2014-03-06

  +Batch Cover and Disc downloading!

  +Cleaner for ART folder!

  +Now checks if theres ART CD DVD folders on startup!

  

  v.4 2014-03-04

  +Cover and disk icon downloading!

  +Now checks if ALL iso's file extension is .iso lowercase

  

  v.3 2014-03-03

  +ISO renaming!

  +Now detects bad named iso's on startup!

  

  v.2 2014-03-01

  *Fixed crash selecting OPL folder in XP

  *Fixed File=>Exit button not working

  *Fixed Settings=>Set OPL folder not working

  +Added global stats

  +Added "Type" column to game list

  

  v.1 2014-03-01

  *First release

Notes:
*When it ask to select OPL folder is the folder where you have ART DVD CD THM.
*You should run this exe in a new folder, when ran from the first time it extracts some files.

unofficial LaunchELF v4.42

2015-06-09T08:47:00.002-07:00

ule_wip7 - [04-06-2014]

Rewritten tutorial for compiling uLaunchelf. You need to specify $PS2SDKSRC (which is actually git repository) and run prepare_main.sh or restore_ps2sdk.sh.
- fixed one warning in the libcdvd library
- now all libraries will install into $PS2DEV
- Added message about HDL game unloading (l_oliveira)
- partially reverted hdd_manager - now it loads hdl_game partitions much (i mean MUCH MORE) faster (thanks to l_oliveira)
- all source text files converted into linux format
- returned special symbols like triangle, square etc.
- now samba modules compile only when SMB flag is set (by default SMB = 0)
- changed cdinit argument so now ule dont have to freeze with disc control on on SCPH-5xxxx
- removed libjpg library, now is used the one from ps2sdk-ports
- fixed some warnings in vmc
- and of course everything is built with latest ps2sdk

ule_wip6 - 03-26-2014
For those who want proper HDD support this has been added ule_wip6
My advise here is it is slower scanning HDD so 48bitters should not use but can be useful even to you but expect a long wait
Ok here is new version:

Changes:
*(crazycat) 64-bit support (files larger than 4Gb)
*(SP193) added support for disks larger than 1Tb
* added full support for all partitions in HDD manager (except of __mbr partition):
- you can rename any partition;
- you can delete any partition except of partition started with "__" (it is PS2SDK feature);
- returned support for codebreaker partition (don't forget that it can be broken);
- now all partition recognized by partition flag (0x0001 - mbr, 0x1337 - HDL partition, 0x0100 - PFS partition)
- if you press Square on HDL partition - you can load HDL info, if you press Square again - you can unload HDL info (it is needed for renaming HDL partition without reloading HDD manager);
- you can expand only PFS partitions;
* now uLe support official hdd loading path, after loading he mounts partitions from where it is loading into pfs0:/, so now you can simply load LAUNCHELF.CNF which is placed in the same place as uLe.
e.g. hdd0:/__sysconf/FMCB/
* now you can load and save configuration files (including ipconfig.dat) from everywhere
* you can place LAUNCHELF.CNF in the same folder where is uLe placed
* if you inject it in partition header via PATINFO it now tries to read LAUNCHELF.CNF from the root of partition if it is in PFS format. If it is not pfs partition it tries to load it from hdd0:/__sysconf/FMCB/ (specially for l_oliveira)
* fixed problem with "X" and "O" button swap
* fully rewrote code for HDD manager. Tested with my 40Gb disk with 200 partitions.
* now all partitions which names are started from "__" are browsable;
* hide DELETE menu entry in HDD manager for partitions which are started from "__" (because PS2SDK has a bug - so these partitions cannot be removed)
* now it is possible to launch uLe from mbr (thanks kHn for tests and providing mbrs)
* used latest ps2sdk so problem with chinese adaptors and big disks is probably solved
* removed 2Gb limit for single partition unit
* now expand function works with all partitions
* now we can create "__" partitions larger than 2Gb

OK, here is the unofficial version of LaunchELF. (Note: It's based off Mirakichi's source to LaunchELF v3.41)

Some of you may have no idea what this is all about, so here is a link to a brief tutorial on uLaunchELF (aka: uLE).

Changes: Unofficial LaunchELF releases by EP + dlanor

LaunchELF v4.42d (2013.03.24)
-Fixed incomplete ps2sdk update in the prior version.
-Updated ps2sdk and existing source files to github rev 912.

LaunchELF v4.42c (2013.03.22)
-Removed existing kernel patcher and kernel patch for v0 japanese consoles as a patch is currently available within newer ps2sdk versions on github.
-Changed the preliminary SMB implementation to use latest ps2sdk smbman.
-Updated ps2sdk and existing source files to github rev 911.

LaunchELF v4.42b (2012.04.13)
-Updated ps2sdk and existing source files from ps2dev SVN rev 1682 to github rev 891.

LaunchELF v4.42a (2010.07.11)
-Added subprogram MISC/OSDSYS to launch MC-based OSDSYS kelf (as used for FMCB). For most cases the default path should work with standard FMCB installations, but it is also possible to configure a user-defined path for it, so as to experiment with multiple such kelf files on the same MC.

LaunchELF v4.42 (2010.06.12)
-Added kernel patcher and kernel patch as designed by jimmikaelkael to make v0 japanese consoles compatible with newer models in use of homebrews. This cures v0 problems for many other applications too (including ESR) as the kernel remains patched for the duration of a session (until next hard reset/power on). This patching is compatible with that to be added into new versions of "Open PS2 Loader" too, and includes conflict protection when multiple patchers are used. This change has no effect at all on newer consoles, but was required to make it possible to keep the homebrew MC modules in future versions of uLE, and still retain uLE compatibility to all PS2 models.

LaunchELF v4.41a (2010.06.03)
-Fixed a problem with uLE initialization, causing problems with the new MC drivers when used on a PS2 of very old model. This change means that 'initsbv_patches' is now called early in 'loadBasicModules', and nowhere else.
-Reinstated MC drivers by jimmikaelkael, and thus FileBrowser renaming on MCs
-Added corrections by jimmikaelkael to the EE_SIO debug output module of ps2sdk
-added the 'sior' module to uLE with changes in "makefile", "launchelf.h", "iopmod_name.h" and "main.c"
-Added 'SIO_DEBUG' flag to "launchelf.h" for use only in compiling special debug versions of uLE, that use EE_SIO interface for debug feedback instead of PS2LINK
(NB: This is required for debugging with oldest models, as PS2LINK won't work...)
-Remerged all of the changes described for beta v4.40j described further below

LaunchELF v4.41 (2010.05.30)
-Updated ps2sdk and existing source files to SVN rev 1682.
-Fixed some compiler warnings with the vmcfs driver do to changes in the latest ps2sdk revison.
-Removed the modified screen update delay methods, restoring previous functionality.

LaunchELF v4.40j (2010.05.29)
-Added libcdvd_orig folder to CSD folder, so as to provide original libcvd source now that it is no longer available for download at ps2dev.org, and edited setup.sh accordingly so as to use the local copy.
-Edited VMC sources to correct hundreds of incorrect references to "vmcfs" module which is in fact named "vmc_fs". This was mainly in 'DEBUGPRINT' error messages. This also required some editing of the main uLE source files.
-Changed vmc_fs from being an 'uncheckable' module to being 'checkable' (changes in "main.c" and "iopmod_name.h")
-Started work on merging smbman by jimmikaelkael into uLE
-SMB routines now allow successful server connection, using a test menu inside the subprogram "MISC/Debug Info". Note that the SMB functionality requires a suitable "SMB.CNF" file stored as "mc0:/SYS-CONF/SMB.CNF"

LaunchELF v4.40i (2010.04.09)
-Updated ps2sdk and existing source files to SVN rev 1678 and removed a previous source file as it's no longer needed.
-Updated the vmcfs driver with Polo35's changes to vmc_io.c in order to possibly fix virtual memorycard corruptions.
ps2ftpd new additions and changes:
-Added a fix to better resolve the hard drive compatibility issue with later ps2sdk updates.

LaunchELF v4.40h (2010.02.12)
-Modified screen update delay methods, so as to avoid freezing in PCSX2 use due to their incomplete implementation of EE timers.
-Reverted to use MCMAN and MCSERV modules from bios, as required not only for compatibility to PCSX2, but also for compatibility to v0 PS2 consoles.

LaunchELF v4.40g (2010.02.09)
-Updated gsKit and existing source files to SVN rev 1664.
-Readapted and added a few changes back to the gsKit to resolve issues with non-interlace mode.
-Fixed a compiler warning, do to a change with the newer ps2sdk, by changing the data type from "ee_thread_t" to "ee_thread_status_t" for the ReferThreadStatus prototype.

LaunchELF v4.40f (2010.02.08)
-Added preclearing of icon.sys struct buffer for "New Icon" command
(Needed to avoid crashing Sony Browser of v0 PS2 consoles at showing such icons)
-Emphasized warning of old partition destruction for HddManager Format command
-Corrected gsKit coordinate rounding (for proper 'upside-down' JPG display)

LaunchELF v4.40e (2010.01.26)
-Modified load_ps2host function to eliminate 'stalling' of its network init, by adding a setupPowerOff() call before the load_ps2ip() call.

LaunchELF v4.40d (2010.01.24)
-Updated ps2sdk and existing source files
uLE v4.42b.zip

How to repair your ps2 by mapping of the Various PS2 Fuse Locations

2015-06-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hi in this post i would like to show you you how to repair your dead ps2 with no power or power light blink red then yellow by checking some fuses withing the ps2 console

Lot of times, PS2's can be repaired, by replacing one of the small SMD FUSES, which is dead for various reasons.i recommend you to use multi meter to test for the faulty ones.

But note, if the replaced fuse blows again, right after you apply power, then 9 times out of ten your board is toast, or has been badly damaged, but you can check for any small solder bridges due to a possible failed modchip install, those can also can a fuse to blow for no other reason.

And NEVER ever bridge a fuse, please replace it correctly with the same type, part and value, if you don't you might end up with a fire in your house, or burn your hand when turning on the power, or something even worse.

How to identify SCPH-9XXXX v18 PS2 FMCB Compatibility

2015-01-22T16:31:00.000-08:00

After reading around the site for information regarding SCPH-9XXXX v18 PS2 FMCB compatibility, I realized that the info is spread out across many threads. This is an attempt to consolidate what we know so far into one thread.
I'll attempt to use a noob's typical line of questioning as the format.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Q. Which SCPH-9XXXX v18 consoles work with FMCB?
A. Only those with BIOS version 220

Q. Can FMCB be updated to work with v18 consoles that have BIOS version 230?
A. No, Sony removed the feature that FMCB used to boot the hacked OSDSYS.

Q. How do I know if I'm getting a FMCB compatible PS2 without first purchasing the system?
A. There's a few methods so far.
1. If the packaging has a window to allow you to see the sticker, or if the retailer will let you open the box in the store, look for date code 8b. Some 8c may have BIOS v220, most are v230. Any later date code is not compatible.
2. The "Singstar Pop Hits 3" Bundle (not the 2007 bundle with the white PS2)is reported as BIOS v220 (no Guarantees though) I can't find this bundle online, so if you have a link to it, or know a store that sells it please share.

Q. Are there any ways to know what SCPH-9XXXX v18 NOT to buy without opening the package?
A. The Lego Batman bundle is reportedly BIOS v230. Avoid it if you want to use FMCB.

Q. How can I tell if my SCPH-9XXXX v18 has BIOS v220, after I have purchased it and opened the box?
A. Look at the sticker on the bottom of the console. If it has date code 8a or 8b, it will work with FMCB. If it has date code 8c look at next question.

Q. Which numbers are the date code?
A. See pic below!

Q. Are there any date code 8c PS2 that have the v220 BIOS?
A.Yes. It was during the third quarter of 2008 that Sony switched to using bios v2.30. Thus consoles with date code 8C may have either that bios or the preceding bios v2.20 which does allow FMCB booting. So for consoles with 8C we can't be sure about FMCB compatibility without checking the BIOS version explicitly. *

Q. How can I tell what BIOS my date code C console has?
A. Use the BIOS dumping tool attached at the bottom of this post to dump you BIOS and see what version it is.(DUMPBIOS-MASS.zip) You will need a method to launch homebrew to run this program. (see last question for ways to do that)
(Don't upload your BIOS here, it is copyright of Sony, and will get you banned.)

Q. Can the PS2's BIOS be flashed with v220, if I find out I have v230?
A. No the PS2 has a read only BIOS chip.

Q. Are there any FMCB install methods that work on other slim consoles, but not on SCPH-9XXXX?
A. Yes, the Codebreaker method doesn't work, as the program is no longer compatible with this version PS2 at all. Not even for using the cheating function.

Q. What other home brew launching alternatives do I have if I find my PS2 has BIOS v230?
A. Swap Magic, AR Max w/media player, mod-chip (Modbo 4.0 apparently works well.)

If I have missed anything, or have something incorrect, please let me know, and I will update, and or change this first post. Anyone that has a pic of the sticker on the bottom of the PS2 with the date code circled, is welcome to share it.

Unofficial FHDB 1.93 "Noobie Package" OBT

2015-01-22T16:22:00.000-08:00

NOTE: This is only for use with a fat PS2 with network adapter and HDD. This will not work with virtually all slims (unsure if it will work on the earliest slims when soldering an IDE header to the motherboard, as with "HD Combo" etc, feel free to try if you have such a setup).

Hi,

As you may remember, I stated that I was going to be working on an FHDB 1.93 "Noobie Package" to make it easier for people to get a full-featured PS2 HDD setup running. I now have a preliminary image ready for testing. Link at the bottom of the post.

Note: This image will overwrite the first 7.5GB of the HDD you write it to. Make sure you back up any data in the first 7.5GB of the HDD you write it to before you apply this image. Neither I, nor the developers of any included software, are responsible for any damage resulting from use of this image.

This image includes:

FHDB 1.93
OPL 0.9.2, both GSM and non-GSM builds, with VMC
ESR r9b (non-GUI version, for hands-free ESR disc booting, as well as mcard version)
HDLDump Server (I'm away from my PS2 for the moment so I forget the exact version, also requires an MC if your PS2's IP is not the default)
uLE 4.42_HDD wip6 (with a small bonus - I included the custom font I made, a 1:1 pixel copy of the Amiga system font, both versions included in __sysconf/FMCB)
Small ELF to power off the console, used from the OSD
Latest version of SMS, works best with MC for settings
2GB +FCEUMM with .ELF (not the most recent version with the better scaling, but one that I know works well in an MC-less setup, plenty of room to add your own ROMs and store savestates)
2GB +OPL partition (plenty of room for cover art and VMC images)
Both GSM 0.23x and GSM 0.36 standalone builds
MC Annihilator 2.0 (with lang.lng in __sysconf/FMCB, let me know if it boots up in a language other than English, as it may be better to run this from USB)
Copies of WinHIIP, ESRPatchJava, ESRPatcherPro, and the unmodified distributions of ESR, OPL 0.9.2, and OPLGSM 0.9.2, in __sysconf/misc
Preset .CNF entry for patched CodeBreaker 9.2, copy of OPL 0.9.2 as __boot/CB_launch.elf, pre-made empty PP.SLUS-20202.1108.PCB partition of 512MB, CB ELF not included
Preset FHDB launch keys - L1 launches uLE, R1 powers console off, L2 launches OPL, R2 launches CodeBreaker (if present)

I chose CB9.2 as my preferred version, as I've never gotten 9.3 to load homemade CBC files, and I've never personally tried CB10. I set the CNF up to look for __sysconf/FMCB/cb92.elf, so if you put the patched ELF in that location, it will appear on the OSD.

Once initial testing has been done and the idea is workable, I will take suggestions as to other homebrew to include, as well as adding CNF entries for CB9.3 and 10 (and possibly any other such commercial software like HDL, if anyone would want to have it easily usable). As well, it would be nice to have suggestions for other supplementary PC software to include in the __sysconf/misc directory, for those who are new to PS2 softmodding it might make things a little easier on them for installing games, working with ESR patching, etc.

You can use any tool that supports writing raw HDD images to "install" this. On Windows, I recommend HDD Raw Copy Tool (many of you here are familiar with this tool). On Linux or Mac OS X, the standard dd command will work fine, just make sure that the block size and count multiply together to equal the filesize exactly. Also make absolutely sure you set the output file to the right disk, once again I am not responsible if you write this to the wrong HDD and mangle your OS. If you're hesitant because you're worried you might do so, ask for help in this thread.

After the initial testing reports come in, I will write up a README file to go along with the "1.0" image and do a formal release.

Questions or constructive criticism, feel free to post here and I'll respond when I can.

Download the FHDB 1.93 "Noobie Package" OBT v1 here. 9.5MB compressed, 7.25GB uncompressed. This distribution package currently contains no README, just the image file.

Please do not spread this around just yet, wait until testing is done and the image is formally released before doing so.

This image file is 100% legal. No commercial software is included.

If you attempt to use this image with your PS2, please report back here whether you were successful or not, and any issues you may have when installing it or using any of the pre-installed software.

Free McBoot 1.94 Installation For Noobies.

2015-01-22T16:18:00.001-08:00

From the title itself, you know what this is. This package is created based on the 1.93 Noobie Package uploaded by mk2escort.
This is a reupload as the original thread was wiped out due to database corruption on PSX-scene's part.

This Noobie Package includes:
-Free McBoot 1.94 (obvious),
-unofficial LauncherELF wip7,
-ESR public beta revision 9b,
-Simple Media System 2.9 rev4, and
-Open PS2 Loader 0.9.2.

The installation instructions only apply to PS2s with previous versions of FMCB already installed in the memory card:
1. Copy both "install" and "lang" folders and the file "FMCBInstaller .elf" into the root folder of a FAT32-formatted USB drive.
2. Launch "FMCBInstaller. elf" from the uLaunchelf and pick your installation method.
3. You're all done! Enjoy.

Download the package here

Tutorial FMCB v1.93 Installation from PC with PS3 Memory Card Adaptor

2015-01-22T16:13:00.001-08:00

1. Download the attached file
ps3mca-tool-fmcb-1.93..zip

2. Extract the zip in your C:\ drive

3. Connect your Memory card with Ps3 Memory Card Adaptor and connect your adaptor with your PC

4. Install the adaptor drivers by navigating to "C:\ps3mca-tool-fmcb-1.93\drvfiles\" folder

5. Open Command Prompt (windows xp: Start - Run -> cmd ->ok) - (windows 7: Start - Search -> cmd ->ok)

6. write the following command and hit Enter: cd C:\ps3mca-tool-fmcb-1.93\

7. write the following command and hit Enter: mc-format. bat -->> REMOVE SPACE

8. write the following command and hit Enter: full-install. bat -->> REMOVE SPACE

9. Next copy the "extra" folder (C:\ps3mca-tool-fmcb-1.93\extra\) in a usb stick

10. Put your Memory Card and your Usb Stick in your PS2, start your console and launch "uLaunchElf" and browse the usb files (Mass:/extra)
Copy the following folders and files from "extra" folder in to your Memory Card "MC0:/"

Copy/Paste the Folders one by one: "APPS" , "SYSTEM" , "BOOT" , "SYS-CONF"
(when it's prompt select overwrite the existing folders)

Frequent Ask Questions on Softmodding Fat PS2 with Hard Disk Drive

2015-01-22T14:00:00.001-08:00

FAQ
Q: I cant load PC - it is showing up "BOOTMGR is missing" or black screen.
A: Change jumper setting into slave or change boot device priorities in the bios.

Q: Does it work for any IDE hard disk drive?
A: Yes! It is not according to disk size (it can be any: 512Mb, 4Tb, ...). If you can physically connect disk to Network Adapter - that mean that you can use it for soft modding. The disk it even can be broken - the only thing you need that there is no bad blocks in first 4Mb and that it can run for at least 2 minutes. For example i have one disk that is full of bad blocks and can shut down after 5-10 minutes of work. Thats works fine for soft modding.

Q: How to install Western Digital models?
A: You have to to remove the shielding from the network adapter to allow the power plug to be moved slightly...

Q: Ive got official Sony Hard disk drive. Will I loose some information from it?
A: Actually official hard drives already have some kind of official soft modding (HDD OSD or BB Navigator), so there is no need for using this soft mod. It is better to install FreeHDboot over HDD OSD. But if you really want to use my soft mod - it is really good idea to backup first 4Mb. Open HDD Raw Copy Tool and select as source our Hard drive. Start backuping and wait for about 20 seconds then press stop.

Q: My Hard Drive was full of games!!! Now I cannot see anything!!! Panic!!!
A: All games became intact. You have to fix checksum through winhiip. The same is according to official Sony Hard disk - if you want to restore official Hard disk drive structure after softmodding you have to run WinHiip/

Q: I know that there is some interesting PS2 Fat exclusives like HDD OSD, BB Navigator, Pops PSOne emulator and so on. How to install them?
A: The simplest way is to find proper HDD image and select them in 4.1 Tutorial point. For example for installing BB Navigator you can paste in google "PSBBN custom install 2013 by AKuHAK"

Q: The disk that Im found was old and full with information. Can I erase it?
A: Of course you can. It is very good idea to Zero Out your HDD before start using it. Im using Low Level Format Tool. During cleaning you can find Bad Sectors in the disk (if the program freeze that mean that you have bad blocks). But be very careful - this program can erase all data from your normal working Hard Disk!!!

Q: HDD Raw Copy Tool doesn't work. PLEASE HELP!!!111oneone...
A: Start it with Administrative rules.

Q: Is it possible to install such a trick into SCPH-70000?
A: You tell me

Q: Is it possible to install Free MC boot after this soft modding?
A: Yes.

Q: Is this legal? Can I free redistribute and use it? Or one night I wake up a Giant $ony Crab?
A: Yes, this is fully legal. This files are FULLY free and you can share them on the net. The only limitation you can't call it FreeHDBoot because it is not FreeHDBoot!

Q: I want to use SATA!!! IDE is very old, small, slow and I cannot connect them to my MacBook!!!
A: For sata support you can use for example DELOCK guide (Adapter for SATA HDD). But be careful it needs some technical skills

Q: How to install official Sony stuff into non-official HDD?
A: Thanks to krHACKen it is very easy to adopt any official software for supporting non-official Hard Disk drive (no matter sata or ide). And yes this is fully legal. You have to download ATADpatcher_0_03.zip You have to find all atad.irx and patch them with atadpatcher You have to find all elf files that can contain atad.irx and patch them If you see "0 bytes patched" that means that file isnt modified. You have to replaced non-patched files with patched one. There is of course some limitation like DNAS check and big HDD support (see next FAQ question).

Q: There are rumors that I cannot install official stuff on the HDD bigger than 127Gb.
A: Yes and no. If you need to install some official stuff on HDD that is bigger that 127Gb you can do it in 2 ways. You can Atad Patch your stuff and install it. If you don't cross physically 127Gb border it seems that your stuff will work but will work with problems. It is not recommended to do it but sometimes it is the only way (for example if you use BB Navigator). You have to replace all atad.irx with ps2atad.irx from latest compiled PS2SDK. Be careful sometimes atad.irx is placed inside elf files, sometimes it is placed into packed and crypted files. If it is crypted - sorry there is no way (yeah BB Navigator) And don't forget about such a fact that PS2SDK isn't completed and can produce some errors.

Q: Can I install Final Fantasy XII on the disk?
A: No you can't!!! At least you have to buy Japanese console and you have to buy Final Fantasy XII. There is no way for cracking DNAS.

Tutorial Softmodding Fat PS2 with Hard Disk Drive

2015-01-22T13:36:00.004-08:00

It is some kind of tutorial and faq.

You purchased the phat ps2 and want to run games, programs and do whatever you want. Other words you are searching for easy way for launching ELF files cause if you can launch elf file - you can do whatever you want. There are some methods that are universal for all PS2 (Fat and Slim):

- FreeMcBoot
- SwapMaagic (or something like this)
- ModChip

For installing FreeMcBoot : you need FreeMcBoot (yeah recursion ) and memory card. So you need to find some other console (that is already modded) : get access to it and install FreeMcBoot. Not so easy (e.g. I was searching for it for about YEAR!!!)
For using SwapMagic - you have to buy swapmagic disc and you have to get working laser (for example my Fat PS2 cannot launch disks anymore ). SwapMagic is expensive and not so easy to find. I know that there is a way how to make swapmagic from some licensed game but As for ModChips - I dont like these chips - because they are expensive, can damage your system, and isn't fully compatible with some fat ps2 exclusive stuffs.

But there is one more method - exclusive for "FAT" version. I mean Hard Disk Drive modification.

1) Firstly you need some special accessories for your. If you have SCPH-1x000 version (early japanese units) you have to find somewhere special accessories for it: HDD system external unit, PS2 linux kit, bb navigator kit etc. Unfortunately you cannot connect these official Hard Drives to PC so this guide not for you :P Check this vid.
But if you have SCPH-3xxxx or SCPH-5xxxx this guide is for you. You need to get somewhere Network adapter (external bay). If you are so lucky you already have it but sometimes you need to buy it somewhere. All known models are listed here.

2a) Next you need to purchase IDE hard disk. You don't need to purchase official Sony Hard Disk. Soft Modding will work fine with any of your old IDE hard drive [B]except of Western Digital models (see FAQ below). For example it works fine with my 2Gb (!) 1994year hard drive (Fujitsu Siemens). All my seagate, fujitsu, intel and other drives are working fine.

2b) If you really need SATA for some reason (you cannot find IDE, you need bigger disks, you need faster disk, you dont have motherboard with IDE support etc.) you have to check
this post (Adapter for SATA HDD) Of course if you use SATA disk step 3 is much more easier.

3) Next - you have to find PC with old motherboard which have possibility to connect old IDE hard drive. Or you have to find some USB-to-IDE adaptor. Unfortunately there is no other way for now. As for me I just swap my old DVD-ROM with this hard disk drive (caution don't do it if your PC is switched on). But if you use some USB-to-IDE you can connect it without turning PC off.

So assuming - you need Fat PS2, Network Adapter, IDE Hard Disk and PC with ability to connect IDE devices (running windows).

4) After hdd connection you have to launch some windows on this PC. Start program called HDD Raw Copy Tool (search google).

Here we have to select the SOURCE. Click FILE and select the dump file - ULE_442B_SMALL.IMG (search google).
Click continue...
Here we have to choose the TARGET HDD. Select your PS2 HDD in the list. MAKE SURE IT IS YOUR PS2 HDD AND NOT ONE OF YOUR PC HDDS.(search google)
Click continue...
Click continue;
The "warning" message appears. Make sure it shows the name of your PS2 HDD then click Yes

5) Thats all. Now you can connect Hard Drive to your PS2. Dont forget to set jumper settings into Master. In some cases you have to disable modchip (if you have one). After console launching it will show you uLaunchElf And with uLaunchelf you can launch what ever you want.

Click here to download Fat soft mod files.

PS2 Independent exploit

2010-11-23T06:28:00.000-08:00

When a PlayStation (PS1) game is loaded in the PlayStation 2, the console looks for a file called TITLE.DB which, if present, is located in the Memory Card's directory BxDATA-SYSTEM (where x is a letter corresponding to the console's region –e.g.: E for the EU, A for the USA or I for Japan, this directory corresponds to the System Settings save). This file is a database of special options to be applied to specific PS1 games for their correct operation.
The exploit relies on creating a deliberately incorrect entry inside this file, which triggers a buffer overflow and, combined with a small stub loader located in the file, allows the execution of unencrypted code from the Memory Card upon the insertion of a specific PS1 game. Normally, only programs encrypted by Sony, such as the DVD player, will run from the Memory Card.
The discovery of this vulnerability in the PS2's software opens up the possibility of running programs created by the PS2 homebrew developer community without the need for a modchip or disc swapping techniques (e.g. CogSwap or Swap Magic).
These swap techniques use a hardware exploit of the PlayStation 2. They use a tool to open the disc drive tray without the PS2 knowing on "fat" units or using a different tool to push the "flap closed" sensor on slimline units. The latter is also used on swap discs for the original PlayStation.

Installation

Triggering the exploit requires a way of installing the modified files to the Memory Card, which is not possible by normal means. Installation is accomplished either from a console (modified or with the exploit already installed), a Memory Card reader/writer, a disc swapping technique or through the use of some commercial programs allowing USB flash drive to Memory Card transferences, such as Code Breaker (versions 8 and higher) or Action Replay MAX, by transferring a modified System Settings save file. Alternatively a more involved method can be used, through the combination of a hard disk loader program (HD Loader/HD Advance), an ISO image installer program for PS2 (such as WinHiip), and an image of some program allowing installation (such as Ubergeek's Exploit Installer http://sksapps.com/index.php?page=exploitinstaller.html)

Benefits

With the exploit installed, the user is able to run programs from Memory Cards, optical discs, network or USB flash drives. Programs are found in the ELF executable format.
Popular programs include media players, Memory Card/hard disk management tools, emulators, and loaders (able to launch other programs, or "backup" games).

The exploit on newer consoles

The original Independence Exploit method does not work on newer "slim" PS2 models. However, there are other ways of installing similar programs to the memory card using Swap Magic discs or commercial cheat discs, such as Action Replay MAX.
Free McBoot is a newer PS2 exploit that is more user friendly (once set up) and works on most models of the PS2, including slimlines. Only the newest model SCPH-9000x with BIOS 2.30 (manufactured late 2008) and newer does not work. FMCB does not require a trigger disk, thus making it possible to use on systems with dead disk drives. The drawback is that FMCB MUST be installed/compiled on each memory card individually, copying the exploit does NOT work, this means that an already exploited or modded system is required in order to create new installations. The FMCB installation is keyed to the memory card, not the system. You can however use a single Memory Card with FMCB on other version consoles within the same region.
Example: Installing FMCB using a NTSC-U/C console will work in other PS2 consoles with the same region designation, if the Multi-Install option was used during the installation. This same MC will NOT work in a PAL or NTSC-J region console.

Free McBoot at 9000x Models
Just for the newest 9000x Model:
FMCB work: Date-Code 8a & 8b (8c ONLY with v2.20 BIOS. The PS2 BIOS can't be flashed!)
FMCB doesn't work on: Date-Code 8c & 8d (BIOS Version v2.30)