Anatomy of the Console
Taking the lid off, mentally
Before you touch a screwdriver, you need a map. Every PS2, fat or slim, is built from the same family of parts. Learn what each one does and you will know where to look when something fails.
The main board and processors
- Emotion Engine (EE) - runs the game logic and system software; the brain
- Graphics Synthesizer (GS) - draws all graphics and outputs video
- System memory (RAM) - 32 MB of main memory shared by games
- I/O processor (IOP) - handles USB, memory cards, controllers and sound
The drive bay and media
The PS2 reads DVD-ROM game discs and CD-ROM games. It also plays DVD movies and audio CDs. The drive unit contains the laser, a spindle motor that spins the disc, and a sled that moves the laser across the disc. The laser and its mechanism are the most commonly replaced parts on any PS2.
Ports, slots and connectors
| Port | Where | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 2 x Memory card slots | Front of console | Saves and FreeMcBoot homebrew |
| 2 x Controller ports | Front of console | DualShock / DualShock 2 |
| 2 x USB ports | Rear (fat) / front (slim) | Peripherals, homebrew storage |
| AV Multi Out | Rear | Composite, S-Video, component video |
| Digital optical out | Rear | Digital audio (S/PDIF) |
| Network adapter | Fat models (bay) | Online play, HDD bay access |
Power delivery
Early fat consoles (SCPH-10000) used an external AC adaptor. Later fat models have a built-in power supply. The SCPH-70000 slim returned to an external adaptor, while later slim models (SCPH-75000 and up) built the supply back in. Always check which type you have before you open a console.
Warning: Never open a console with the power cable plugged in. Even unplugged, the power supply capacitors can hold a charge for a short while - wait a few minutes after unplugging before touching the board.
Check your understanding
What part reads the game disc? The optical drive - laser, spindle and sled.How much main memory does a PS2 have? 32 MB.Which consoles use an external AC adaptor? The SCPH-10000 fat and the SCPH-70000 slim.What does the I/O processor handle? USB, memory cards, controllers and sound.
Answer the questions out loud or on paper. If any are hard, re-read this lesson before moving on.
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