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PS3 Linux: Summary
Run Linux on PS3
In the last few weeks ModsandHacks have announced the latest progressions in the console hacking scene. With new innovations announced on a weekly basis, the Wii and 360 homebrew and hacks scene looks as if only the skies the limit. This brings me to the PS3. We are still waiting on the rumoured Belzar modchip for PS3? and with no hacks in sight for the ps3, things don’t look to good. We here at modsandhacks think we have been missing out on a blessing in disguise. Yes installing Linux on PS3 will allow for you to do many things that a hacked console can do. We explain why you may be missing out.
PS3 linux
When Ps3 was launched it was intended to be fully compatible with Linux, this was a trend that started back in the days of the PS2 in the form of the PS2 Linux kit. The PS3 does not come with Linux preinstalled. Instead it allows you to install certain compatible Linux distros from an install other OS option in its menu. Sony truly intended to support Linux and even announced full support at launch. Linux on PS3 can be booted as live CD or when installed from PS3 hard drive.
[Quote]
“It was fully intended that you, a PS3 owner, could play games, watch movies, view photos, listen to music, and run a full-featured Linux operating system that transforms your PS3 into a home computer.”
Linux for ps3: how? Why?
OK we know this is old news, but bear in mind that Linux itself allows for many emulators, ROMS hacked and homebrew software to be used. Linux itself acts as a host system for practically any software as it is an OS. So by running Linux on Ps3, means you can also run just about any type of application. In my opinion that makes linux for PS3 huge! As you read this article i can hear the Xbox 360 fanboy’s begging for this functionality out of the box, but then again Microsoft wouldnt be to happy about running linux on Xbox. Maybe we could see Windows on the 360. But for now we have Linux for PS3.
Techinical Stuff
The Linux kernel is compatible with Ps3 from v 2.6.21 upwards. In theory The Ps3 is fully compatible with recent kernels of Linux and as a result many Linux distros have been ported to PS3. However, Sony have only allow wed the Linux kernel to access 6 of its 7 SPE’s (synergistic processing element), as Sony have implemented a hypervisor to restrict access to the RSX (Reality Synthesizer). What this means is that Linux does not have access to the PS3 graphics processor. Instead image processing and 3d rendering have to be generated using only 6 of 7 SPE’s. This is enough to have some basic 3d gaming, but nothing that would be considered eye candy by today’s standards.
Its not all is negative, Ps3 Linux can still access 6 SPE’s running at 3.2 GHz each. This is more than enough for HD movie content and application processing. Many emulators and homebrew apps exist for Linux on PS3. Perks should be taken advantage off, as there is a huge community for support and software is usually free and open source.
Compatibility:
PS3 Linux is only compatible with Older models of the PS3, PS3 slim does not allow for Linux to access it. Sony’s excuse is that it was to cut development cost.
Which Linux on your PS3?
Ok so you want to install Linux on Ps3 but you don’t know which one to choose. In my opinion its really down to personal preference, and of course what OS you are used too. So here’s a round up of what your options are. Here are the main PS3 Linux distributions that are available on the PS3.
Yellow Dog Linux (YDL) is one off the first Linux PS3 distros that supported HD content natively. Yellow Dog Linux v5.0 was one of, if not the first Linux distro to run on PS3. It is known for having many applications pre loaded on installation. Yellow Dog Linux v6.2 Is the current iteration. Yellow Dog Linux has become synonymous with the PS3, more so than any other distro.
Fedora: This Linux distro is another popular choice, unfortunately these distros have many issues and complications with installation and different PS3 versions.
Visit our guide to installing Linux on Ps3
Ubuntu: This PS3 Linux distro needs no introduction. Ubuntu is now the most popular linux distro out there. Ubuntu is known for its great GUI, usability, and general functionality. Popular versions that where ported such as LTS release 8.04 by Hardy Heron. Ubuntu v9.10 was the last version to be ported.
Fedora: This Linux distro is another popular choice, unfortunately these distros have many issues and complications with installation and different PS3 versions.
Guide to installing Linux on PS3
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