PS3 - "How to install another OS on your PS3"

[magneticman]

How to install another OS on your PS3

section: common, for your questions: IT forum, 13.11.2006
Who'll get the last laugh now? They said the PS3 sucks, is late, is too expensive, isn't worth it, isn't a bargain. Well, look at it now! It's shaping up to be something worth its weight in news.


It only takes four easy steps to install another system software on the hard disk of your PS3. Yeah, you heard us right! Not only can you swap 2.5" SATA HDD, you can change the operating system (OS) software. Of course, you need compatible third-party software: but we're still waiting for more details on that (www.playstation.com just says "details will be posted soon").

But, just so you know, here's how you'd do it:

* Do not turn off the PS3 system or remove the disc or storage media during installation. Doing so may cause damage to the system software.
* During installation, the power button on the system front is inactive. [We're guessing this means: In other words, don't panic, and don't get confused. Your system is on and busy - don't turn it off!!!!!]

1. Insert the disc or storage media that contains the installer in the system.
2. Select (System Settings) under (Settings) in the home menu.
3. Select [Install Other OS]. The system searches for the installer. When the installer is found, its content and location will be displayed.
4. Check the content of the installer, and then select [OK]. The installer starts. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the operation.

Sony even offers hints. Wow! It's like they want us to try different OS! They keep showing how gamer-centric they are.

* To start the newly installed system software, go to (Settings) > (System Settings) > [Default System], and then select [Other OS] to restart the system.
* An appropriate USB adaptor (not included) is required to use storage media with some models.

Now go and spread the word. Not only can its firmware support homebrew, its OS can be changed. Wow. The PS3 is looking better every passing news day.

Source: ps3.qj.net

PS3 with Vista anyone?

this means hypothetically, all the next-gen gaming goodness could come from one machine...

the only thing is that sony can upgrade the firmware, however they could also sell OS for it too imo

i dunno, what do you think?

[dangel]

Well it's a nice idea but you won't get Vista working on it without x86 emulation. I like my Xbox (the old model) because I can run homebrew stuff on it so it makes sense to be able to do the same on the PS3 I guess..

[Digerati]

I would assume obtaining workable drives for the equipment would be a pain in the arse?

[Veles]

I would assume obtaining workable drives for the equipment would be a pain in the arse?

Well saying it's all the same hardware, all you have to do is for someone to make a set of drivers. It's the PS3 and it is going to be popular, and I bet theres someone who's gonna try to get vista or XP on there.

[GeorgeTuk]

I am thinking people should maybe be getting out more and meeting more people.

[Steve]

I don't think Microsoft have a version of Vista compiled for the Cell processor...

[Acidmax]

This is not possible, it will require insane amounts of work from individuals just to make any o/s run on that hardware, and since people dont get paid to do it..

[kasavien]

i thought it was going to be possible to run linux on it anyway?

[autopilot]

i thought it was going to be possible to run linux on it anyway?

http://www.engadget.com/2006/10/17/y...playstation-3/


But there is no chance the PS3 will be able run XP/Vista LOL.

[directhex]

PS3 with Vista anyone?

this means hypothetically, all the next-gen gaming goodness could come from one machine...

the only thing is that sony can upgrade the firmware, however they could also sell OS for it too imo

i dunno, what do you think?

the ps3 should run any os a) for powerpc architecture and b) with drivers for all the assorted bits & bobs

it should run well with any os that c) offers full support for the vector units

A and B mean assorted *nix options. C means Yellow Dog linux, and other linuxes in the future (IBM have invested a lot of time & effort in linux for cell)

[sawyen]

any chance for OSX?... why?.. well.. Its based on Linux from what I recall..

[charleski]

Yes, Sony have already announced a Linux for the PS3, will be similar to Linux for the PS2. I suppose you could use it for some media stuff, but the main point is to give enthusiasts a chance to learn to program the Cell, which looks good on your CV if you want to get into the games biz.

OSX is based on BSD. As far as hacking a PPC build of OSX to run on the PS3 - why don't you give it a go and report back in 5 years?

[TheAnimus]

ppc cell processor is hardly going back 5 years.

The main feature of a console is standardisation. Its all the same, so for games running another OS might not help, at all. For home automation things would be quite cool.

People will port linux to run on this, why because its a technically fun challenege to see how well you can get a kernel running on a multi-cell ppc system. Also there are many developers who are single, with too much free time.

[directhex]

People will port linux to run on this, why because its a technically fun challenege to see how well you can get a kernel running on a multi-cell ppc system. Also there are many developers who are single, with too much free time.

you make it sound as if you can't already buy a cell-based system running linux - not to mention YDL5 which is a commercial distro specifically targetting the ps3

[magneticman]

ok now i feel like a fool

i was joking about vista

[GeorgeTuk]

Don't feel like a fool, you just lit the touch paper...and then came the flames!