Hacking the PSP Blog

PSP Firmware 3.52 Released

Sony has released version 3.52 of the PSP firmware to provide additional support for PlayStation Network PSX titles. Other than that there's not much to report. Just be aware that upgrading to this version will destroy any dreams of running homebrew software in the near future. However, if you still wish to upgrade then you can download the update from Sony's site using the link below or by using the Network Update feature on your PSP.

Download PSP System Update 3.52

Via PlayStation USA

One of a kind God of War modded PSP on sale

This is for the ultimate God of War fan. In preparation for the upcoming Chains of Olympus, someone took the liberty to meticulously craft this modded PSP. "The PSP console itself was airbrushed with a deep metallic bronze in an 18-step process and then strategically tarnished to create a battle-worn armor look (like the chest plate worn in the game!)." Wow.

How many hundreds of dollars would you give for a machine like this? That's a good question, because the system's available on eBay. As of writing, the winning bid was a reasonable $366. Will you try and snag this one-of-a-kind machine?

Andrew Yoon
July 24, 2007

God of War Modded PSP on eBay



Source: PSP Fanboy

Military-grade PSP case: only $100

Apparently, the PSP is becoming quite popular in the military world. That's why TAD Gear created this PSP case, one that's supposedly MILSPEC grade. "These PSP Pods were produced at the request of some our associates and customers deployed overseas. The Sony PSP has become a common sight in many a soldiers' kit these days. The PSP has become ideal for personal entertainment for many while in transit or stuck at barracks. This is built with MILSPEC construction and materials thru-out. There is no sturdier, better built, and versatile storage pouch for the PSP available anywhere."

The high level of construction is supposed to be the reason behind its somewhat exuberant price: $100. But, if you happen to be in the military, now's the time to pick the system up. "Due the high cost of production it is highly unlikely we will produce these again."

Andrew Yoon
July 24, 2007

Buy TAD Gear PSP Pod

Source: PSP Fanboy

Sony (Europe) opens up PSP development to universities

Sony is set to expand the reach of PSP development with a new programme enabling universities to gain access to the same professional tools available to commercial game developers.

The non-commercial scheme was announced by Sarah Lemarié, who is Sony Computer Entertainment Europe's academic liaison, at the Games:Education day of the Develop Conference in Brighton.

It builds on the existing PlayStation 2 Linux programming scheme run by over 20 UK universities. It will enable the institutions to buy the same hardware development kits as professional developers for what Lemarié described as a "vastly reduced rate".

It will also ship with the same ProDG programming tools and debuggers used by commercial studios. Online support will be provided with a cloned version of the professional development website, with students able to create their own accounts so they can access and interact within their own forums.

Further details will to be announced soon, but the computer programming courses at University of Abertay Dundee, Sheffield Hallam and Hull universities are expected to be the launch partners for the service.

Jon Jordan
July 24, 2007

Source: Pocket Gamer