Ask PSP Fanboy: Volume 8
Note: This edition was delayed due to New York Comic Con.
Every Saturday, PSP Fanboy will answer your burning questions. If you have a question for the team, send an e-mail to andrew @ pspfanboy.com with the subject "Ask PSP Fanboy."
Q: The Mega Drive was 16-bit, the PS1 was 32-bit, the N64 as 64-bit, and the PS2 was 128-bit. We don't use the word "bit" with the new genrations of consoles. Why is that?
A: Bits simply don't matter anymore. Why? Because most information you'll need will fit into 32 bit packets. Also, what are we measuring bits from? We have multiple CPUs, GPUs (and even PPUs) in modern gaming equipment, all of varying bit qualities. The PSP has a 32-bit CPU with a 128-bit bus and a GPU with a 256-bit bus. However you want to spin that, that either means the PSP is a 32-bit or a 256-bit system. Hopefully, this proves how useless these "bit" numbers are in determining performance.
Q: What is RSS?
A: The RSS feature was introduced in version 2.70 of the PSP firmware (2.80 introduced video RSS capabilities). RSS is a bookmark that features the latest audio and video content. You may recognize it as a "podcast." Using this feature, you can have your PSP download the latest episodes of a podcast. Chances are, if it works with an iPod, it will work on your PSP. To add an RSS feed to your PSP, you'll have to type or click a URL from the PSP's browser. We have a few recommended ones here, and in our weekly feature called RSS this! Once you add an RSS feed to your PSP, you'll be able to see the latest files and download (or stream) them to your PSP. You'll even be able to schedule your PSP to download the latest files at a certain time.
Q: I was wondering which game is equipped with v3.00 so I don't have to bother messing around on the Internet once again.
A: Sorry, pal. There's no game right now that offers the 3.00 update on UMD. As of February 8, UMDs are made with version 2.82 installed. You're either going to have to wait, or use Sony's official website to download the latest.
Q: As is continually mentioned, the Japan PS Store has a lot better PS1 games available for download. I was curious if those games can be played on a US psp. I've already got an account for that region and in know that PS3 downloads work, but do the PS1 games work?
A: Yes, Steven has even downloaded and played Silent Bomber, and is currently writing a Retro Review of that game.
Q: I updated my PSP to 3.11. I was wondering if there is any way for me to downgrade or change my game
boot or boot sound or anything.
A: The answer is simple: no. Right now, downgrading works up to version 3.03, with an unpatched copy of Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. You're going to have to wait for the homebrew community to find another exploit, or you're going to have to get a new PSP with an older firmware if you want to mess around with homebrew.
