Anatomy of the Console
A map before you touch a tool
Every PS5, from the launch model to the Pro, is built from the same family of parts. Learn what each one does and you will know exactly where to look when something fails. The chassis opens in two layers: the white shell panels and the internal frame that holds the electronics.
The main board and processors
- The APU - the combined CPU and GPU; the brain and the eyes
- 16 GB GDDR6 - main system memory, soldered to the board
- The SSD and its controller - the custom 825 GB drive plus the chip that manages it
- The power delivery system - VRM circuitry that feeds clean power to the APU
The cooling system
The PS5 has the most interesting cooling design Sony has shipped. A layer of liquid metal sits between the APU and the heatsink for efficient heat transfer, heat pipes spread the heat across a large fin stack, and a single big fan pulls air through the whole chassis. Later models also collect dust in side tunnels and suction plates so it settles somewhere easy to clean.
Ports, slots and connectors
| Port | Where | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C and USB-A | Front of console | Controller charging, peripherals, external drives |
| USB-A and USB-C | Rear of console | Peripherals, external storage |
| HDMI 2.1 | Rear | 4K video and audio out to your TV |
| Ethernet | Rear | Wired network |
| Power port | Rear | AC power in |
| M.2 SSD bay | Inside, under the shell | Internal storage expansion |
Power delivery
The PS5 has an internal power supply, so there is no power brick to lose. It converts wall power to the low voltages the board needs. The power supply area is the place to look first when a console is completely dead.
Warning: Never open a PS5 with the power cable plugged in. Even unplugged, the power supply capacitors can hold a charge for a while — wait a few minutes after unplugging before touching the board.
Check your understanding
What sits between the APU and the heatsink? A layer of liquid metal for heat transfer.What connects the console to your TV? The HDMI 2.1 output.Where does internal storage expansion go? In the M.2 SSD bay, inside the shell.Does the PS5 use an external power brick? No - it has an internal power supply.
Answer the questions out loud or on paper. If any are hard, re-read this lesson before moving on.
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