The PlayStation 3 firmware significantly expands the functionality of the console: you can download games from the Internet, run additional programs, and copy games from friends.
- After flashing the PlayStation 3 firmware, you get the opportunity launch any game downloaded from the Internet, on your console. You will have access to all the games that were released for these consoles, as any game can be found on torrents.
- The game can be started both from a USB flash drive and from a hard drive(including from internal). You can copy games to the console either via a flash drive or via the network.
- For the convenience of launching games and getting additional features, the console can be installed special programs: MultiMan, etc.
- You can burn several games to your hard drive consoles and conveniently launch them from the list. No need to switch BR disks, just select the game and start.
- I love it You can copy the game from the BR disk to internal memory, and the disk will no longer be needed after that. You can borrow a game from a friend or rental store, quickly copy it, and return the disc.
Which consoles are suitable for firmware?
To install the firmware, you must have the system version installed on your console no higher than 3.55. The current version can be viewed in the console settings - in the "System Information" section.
If the set-top box was released no later than the beginning of 2011, then the system version can be downgraded to 3.55. After this, the PS3 console can be flashed. Our operators will help you determine the possibility of downgrading specifically for your set-top box.
If downgrading the software version for your set-top box is not available, then upgrading the firmware is possible.
In recent years, the popularity of video game consoles has been steadily growing. Not only are they used to release all the gaming hits of recent years, but the power of this type of device is such that they allow you not only to play games, but also to watch movies, surf the Internet and listen to music.
In short, a completely functional and full-fledged media center. Unfortunately, not everything is so smooth. Manufacturers of such gadgets in recent years seem to be competing to create increasingly sophisticated protection systems.
Of course, they are primarily aimed at protecting against piracy, but they spoil honest players’ nerves much more. In short, it won’t hurt to learn how to flash a PS3.
What is it for?
We won’t talk for long about what will allow you to play even when you download games from the Internet yourself. We will leave discussions about the inadmissibility of such actions to the copyright holders.
We are interested in something else. Even quite conscious players are thinking about how to flash PS3. What is this connected with? Let's imagine that you have a friend who brought a licensed disc from another country. Do you think you can play normally? No matter how it is! Regional protection will not allow you to do this if the console is not firmware!
If you are not confident in your abilities, please read the guide below carefully before flashing your PS3 yourself.
What do you need to know?
First, we need to know a couple of important points. We connect the set-top box to the TV, go to settings, find the “System Information” item. Important! If the firmware version is 3.55 or less, then everything is fine. If it's 3.6 and higher, unfortunately, you can't flash it yet.
So, before flashing your PS3, you need to find out the version. Trying to flash an unsupported version will damage the device.
What do we need?
First, get a flash drive. It must be formatted in. In the root of such media, a folder called PS3 is created, into which the UPDATE directory is inserted (required
Flashing
Before flashing your PS3, you need to completely turn it off. For all models, the safest way is to simply temporarily unplug the power cord from the outlet. After this, the cable is returned to its place.
Then we press the power button and hold it until the set-top box turns on and off. After that, press the button again and hold it until the console beeps twice. Release the button.
The device will boot into recovery mode. After that, attach the joystick and select “System Update”. Then your participation is not required. The set-top box will automatically install the required files and reboot on its own.
So we told you how to flash a PlayStation 3. The main condition is to strictly follow all the points that we outlined in the article. We remind you once again (if you have not read the instructions included with the set-top box) that in case of firmware or any other independent modification of the device, you lose the right to warranty. So do everything as carefully as possible!
However, software hacking is much safer than a beginner with a soldering iron!
If you are still wondering whether to install firmware on your PS3 or not, find out from this article what benefits you will get. And also about what disadvantages the firmware has. Make a decision after weighing all the pros and cons.
PS 3 firmware is the installation of modified software. The official firmware version is replaced with a custom one and a special MultiMan or Rogero Manager shell is installed, which makes launching games more convenient.
What will you get by flashing your console?
If you install the firmware on the PlayStation 3, you will be able to:
Burn games from licensed discs or downloaded from the Internet to the internal disk of the console (these games can be copied to the console via ftp or from a flash drive). In the future, you will not need discs to run these games.
Run games not only from disks and internal memory, but also from an external USB drive or flash drive. These can also be games downloaded from the Internet or copied from licensed discs.
Use homebrew - unofficial programs for PS3 - more convenient file managers and shells for launching games, video players, etc.
In other words:
You save money on games (you don't have to buy them anymore)
You save drive life (you don’t have to use it at all)
You expand the capabilities of your console
Agree, these are good reasons to flash the PlayStation 3. However, the firmware also has some disadvantages.
PlayStation 3 firmware
Disadvantages of the firmware
Sony provides the PSN online gaming service for most of its consoles. Including for PS3. But the PSN network has a DNAS security system that can detect unlicensed versions of games. In this case you will be banned. To avoid this, play only licensed games online and do not use homebrew programs while online.
In other words, the firmware features can only be used when you are disconnected from the PSN network. And even in this case, the possibility of a ban remains.
But this is not the biggest drawback of the firmware (and if you are not interested in multiplayer, then this is not a drawback at all). The firmware has another bold minus.
The worst news
So, you were delighted with the new possibilities and decided to flash your console. But don’t rush to take it to a repair shop or download the firmware from the Internet for installation yourself. The fact is that
Not all PlayStation 3 models can be flashed
You can only flash set-top boxes with official software version no higher than 3.55. If you have a newer version installed, then you need to do a downgrade - downgrade the version of the official shell to the “flashed” one.
Downgrade requires connecting a special programmer (E3 flasher). Therefore, downgrade must be done in a specialized workshop. You, of course, can downgrade the firmware version yourself, but the cost of the programmer required for this will be even higher than a downgrade with subsequent firmware update at a service center. That is, by giving your set-top box to specialists for firmware, you will save money and receive a guarantee for all work.
Unfortunately, not all models can be downgraded for further firmware. All “thick curling irons” are being downgraded (and therefore flashed) - that is, PS 3 FAT, which were produced before July 2009. The PS3 Slim series includes consoles released before 2010 and some revisions released in the first half of 2011.
PlayStation 3 SuperSlim and PS3 Slim, produced since July 2011, cannot be downgraded or flashed! But on most of them you can install ODE, which has similar functionality.
How do I know if my console is flashing?
If you have a PS3 Super Slim, it's definitely not flashing (yet).
If you have a PlayStation 3 Slim, you will need to know your specific firmware model and release date. This information is written on the back panel of the console.
The PS3 Slim console series is designated by the code CECH2*** or CECH3***, where *** are numbers indicating a specific model. The release date is indicated using DATA CODE of the form 0A. The number indicates the year of release (0 is 2010; 2011 is indicated by one), and the letter indicates the quarter in which the prefix was released: A - I (from January to March); D - IV (October to December) The second and third quarters are designated by the letters B and C, respectively.
Having found out the model and release date, call our service center, and specialists will answer you whether it is possible, or for it (drive emulator).
Produced in our workshops PlayStation 3 firmware. You can confidently trust the many years of experience of our specialists. Call and make an appointment!
All about PlayStation 3 firmware
Instructions on how to update the game console software to version 3.55: It should be noted that there is only one version, but there are several fundamentally different types, each of which has its own pros, cons and implementation methods.
Interface language of programs for PlayStation 3 firmware: Russian, English - this is quite convenient, considering that until recently there was no Russian language.
Please pay attention to the fact that even after flashing the PlayStation 3 firmware, some games will require a disk in the drive, and without the disk nothing will work, the new software will not do a miracle, it will simply add to your comfort when using the console.
The process is quite simple, but you need to be extremely careful, since the slightest mistake can lead to irreversible consequences.
To flash the console, you only need a PlayStation 3, a computer with an Internet connection and the ability to use it, a flash drive or external hard drive, a brain and direct hands.*
*If the latter is absent, immediately throw your console out of the window, and then hit yourself against the wall. (It was a joke, but there is truth in it too. So be careful. Good luck!)
Where to start the firmware process?
1. Turn on the PlayStation 3 and see what firmware is currently installed on the console.
To do this, go to Settings/system settings/system information.
There you will see all the information about the set-top box, including the firmware version. If the installed firmware version is not higher than 3.55, that’s very good - the PlayStation 3 will be flashed without problems.
2. Download the firmware and read the firmware instructions.
3. Copy the firmware files to a flash drive or external hard drive, according to the instructions, organize them into folders.
4. Connect a flash drive or hard drive to the set-top box and install the required firmware, then run the necessary programs described in the firmware instructions.
5. Write the game to the flash drive, Backup Manager sees the games along the path “external drive/GAMES/game folder.”
6. Launch Backup Manager which is located in the “game” menu, then select the game, wait a little and launch.
7. Play and have fun.
Firmware and instructions for flashing PlayStation 3
Firmware for PS3: 3.55 Kmeaw
Advantages and disadvantages:
+ Easy to install
+ Works on all consoles
+ All functions of firmware 3.55 work
+ No need for PS Jailbreak (flash drive for hacking Sony PlayStation 3)
+ Backup managers work
+ Works PSN
Instructions for installing firmware 3.55 Kmeaw:
We install it like regular official firmware.
In addition, you must install all files from the folder with the firmware.
To run the game we use any Backup Manager.
Firmware for PS3: 3.55 Waninkoko
Advantages and disadvantages:
+ Easy to install
- If the instructions are not followed exactly, there is a possibility of ruining the PlayStation.
+ It is possible to revive the PlayStation after failure.
+ No need for PSJailbreak (device for hacking Sony PlayStation 3)
+ Backup Managers work
+ Works PSN
+ All functions of firmware 3.55 work
- Every time you load it is necessary to carry out manipulations before starting the game
- Information may be transferred to PSN, which, in the future, will lead to a ban on the console. (the disadvantage is eliminated by unplugging the Internet cable during the game)
Attention! You do not have permission to view hidden text.
Instructions for installing firmware 3.55 Waninkoko:
Installation is carried out in the same way as in regular official firmware.
You must install all files from the folder with the firmware.
You can use any Backup Manager to run the game.
We will also need to carry out some manipulations with the official firmware file version 3.55 - PS3UPDAT.PUP
You can download the official firmware file for PS3 version 3.55 - PS3UPDAT.PUP. Here
To do this, you will also need to download the Patch Waninkoko-CFW3.55_v2-Patch.exe.
Copy the patch Waninkoko-CFW3.55_v2-Patch.exe. and firmware PS3UPDAT.PUP into one folder, run the Patch, after a few seconds a console window will launch in which hints will appear (True in English. It is advisable to stock up on a dictionary, unless of course you speak English), you will first be reminded to copy the firmware file into one Patcher folder. And we already have it ready. Press the big "ENTER" key, then you will be asked to compare the MD5 check amount of the original file with the one written in the patcher.
The MD5 of the original firmware file must be as follows:
If the amount matches, press “ENTER”, patching of the official firmware begins.
Then, you will be prompted to compare the MD5 check amount of the newly created custom firmware file.
Press "ENTER", wait for the MD5 to be generated and compare it with the one specified in the program.
The MD5 of the Waninkoko custom firmware must match this:
If everything is correct, then you have done the right thing and exactly what you need is the custom firmware file version 3.55 for PS3.
Press the "ENTER" key on your keyboard, you may have to press it several times until the window closes on its own.
Take from the patch and firmware folder the newly created ready-made firmware which will be called PS3UPDAT-Waninkoko_v2.PUP
Rename the resulting custom firmware as PS3UPDAT.PUP and write it to an external USB hard drive or flash drive in the folder PS3/UPDATE/
Insert the hard drive or flash drive into any USB port on the PlayStation 3 and install it through the “Settings -> System Update” menu. There, select "Update from storage media".
Note: The modified version of the firmware can be installed without problems on any PlayStation firmware version that is not higher than version 3.55.
If you cannot start the installation from XMB, then start the installation through Recovery mode.
Now the firmware is installed, and you can start installing applications on your game console.
Firmware for PS3: 3.55 PS3A
Advantages and disadvantages:
+ This CFW is more stable and functional than the popular Kmeaw 3.55 CFW.
+ Improved versions lv1 & lv2 Peek & Poke Patch for OtherOS
+ Changed user icons
+ Removed unnecessary Package Manager from CFW Rebug
+ Firmware includes BDEmu v2 and OpenFTP
+ Added HeavyRain theme
+ Added support for OtherOS
+ Protection 3.66 Spoof
- Spoof 3.66 protection is designed to prevent you from accidentally updating your PS3 to version 3.66!
This means that you will not be able to log into PSN and will not be able to play games for 3.66
Attention! You do not have permission to view hidden text.
Instructions for installing firmware 3.55 PS3A:
We install it in the same way as regular official firmware for Sony PlayStation 3.
It is also necessary to install all the files from the folder with the firmware.
To run games we use any Backup Manager.
Backup Managers:
Gaia Manager v2.07
This backup manager reads game images at dev_hdd0/GAMES/
Download
Installation instructions for Gaia Manager v2.07
Write the backup manager PKG file to the root directory of a flash drive or hard drive.
Insert this storage medium into any USB input of the set-top box.
In the "Game / Install Package Files" menu, start installing the program...
Once the installation is complete, exit to the XMB menu and launch the desired program from the Game menu.
multiMAN Manager v02.05.05
This is the latest version of Backup Manager from multiMAN, which supports launching PS3 images (can work with “problem” games).
This backup manager can read .HEX and .MP3 formats, and also has a built-in file manager and FTP server. MultiMAN Manager can run the console in PS2 game image mode (only on playstation with backward compatibility!)
Main features of multiMAN Manager v02.05.05:
- multiMAN Manager has a built-in FTP server that is constantly active
- There is a file manager that allows you to work with all the contents of the PlayStation 3 and connected devices
- Additional settings in the options.ini file (or options_default.ini)
- Added Copy/Dump indicator
- Launching "problem" games using the SELECT+X keys
- During connection, 7 devices are supported and displayed (HDD/USB/BD/SDHC/MS/CF)
- Supports remote control via PSP or other compatible devices
- MOVE supported
- In file manager mode, keyboard and mouse support is provided
- Animated icons and backgrounds
- Added check/download function
- Added update when pressing a button
- Added support for COVER.PNG in AVCHD video catalogs
- Support for themes
- Supports AVCHD activation from an external USB device.
- Support for AVCHD backup to internal HDD
- Supports AVCHD and BDVM video playback from internal HDD
- Support DLP and CRT TV rescanning
- MP3 format support (plays songs using File Manager, it is possible to play tracks over the network)
- You can view JPEG/PNG images both through the File manager and over the network
- Support for HEX files
- Supports 4 types of fonts (fonts can be changed by pressing the + button combination)
Setting background music in multiMAN Manager:
If you want to set your own background music in the manager, rename any mp3 file to SOUND.BIN and copy it to the /dev_hdd0/game/BLES80608/USRDIR/ directory on the PlayStation 3. After rebooting, your song will be played in the multiMAN Manager menu.
Attention! You do not have permission to view hidden text.
Installation instructions for multiMAN Manager:
Write the PKG file of the program to the root of a removable storage medium (flash drive or USB hard drive).
Insert the media with the recorded program into the USB input of the Sony PlayStation.
Through the menu "Game -> Install Package Files" start the installation of multiMAN Manager.
Once the installation is complete, go to the XMB menu and you can launch the program from the "Game" menu.
Open Manager v1.17.2
Open Manager works perfectly with Grove's latest firmware update - "Hermes payload". With it, you can run most games without a disc with the game in the drive (and some games do not work at all without a disc).
It is allowed to change and modify the program, but please accompany it with the source code - the author requests.
Download: Download from depositfiles.com / Download from letitbit.net
File - "UP0001-OMAN46756_00-0000111122223333.pkg" - Open Backup Manager program
The file "OpenBM_1.17.2_SRC" contains the sources on the basis of which Open Backup Manager itself was compiled using the compiler "PS3 SDK v1.92-FuxSony"
Key features of Open Manager
The Open Manager program supports up to 512 different objects from the bluray drive of the internal hard drive and two USB devices.
Allows you to copy information from bdvd discs to a hdd0 hard drive or an external USB device, from a USB drive to hdd0 and vice versa, from hdd0 to a USB device. During operation, Open Manager asks you where to record data. It uses asynchronous write and read mode for faster copying.
Support for large files in FAT format has been implemented. When the size of one file exceeds 4GB, it is split into several parts, the size of which is less than 4gb, and each part is assigned its own serial number, which is written in its own extension. The extension has the form *.666xx (for example, if the name of a file whose size is larger than 4gb is file.ext, then the file is split into parts file.ext.66600, file.ext.66601, and so on). Such files are not bootable; they are placed in a folder designated by the prefix "_" in its name. Files split into parts are subsequently merged into one file when you copy it to hdd0.
Open Manager independently searches for the path to the games directory, then notifies you where the game is located, and offers to leave the old directory dev_hdd0\game\LAUN12345\GAMEZ\ or create a new one.
It is possible to easily change folders by pressing the L2+START key combination.
The new directory with games is located at: dev_hdd0\game\OMAN46756\GAMEZ\
Options for checking games have been implemented (activated by pressing the L1 button). The menu displays information about files, file sizes, large files, and broken parts.
Homebrew support has been implemented: you can create a folder called "homebrew" in the root folder of the USB device and write folders with programs that contain the EBOOT.BIN and ICON0.PNG file there. It is also possible to use an internal hdd0 drive. Homebrew starts automatically and receives the path in argv (note to developers).
Implemented FTP server support for downloading homebrew. If necessary, you can enable FTP mode and transfer files from your computer. To do this, you need to set the following username in the FTP client: "OMAN46756".
In combination with Open Manager, I recommend using the FTP client "FlashFXP". You can download FlashFXP here
Instructions for using FlashFXP can be downloaded here.
After installing the firmware, the console receives a number of additional features that are not available on conventional consoles:
- Main function - running unlicensed games from hard drives(both from internal and USB), USB flash drives. All you need to do is download any game on the Internet, copy it to a storage device and connect it to the console.
- Possibility of using special convenient customizable shells for managing games - MultiMan, Rogero Manager.
- Launching applications written specifically for firmware PS3 (homebrew): file managers, shells, ftp servers, video players, etc.
- Opportunity downloading games to the console via the network(FTP).
- Opportunity storing your entire game collection directly on your console.
- Copying licensed discs with games on the hard drive with the possibility of further launch without a BR disk in the drive.
Firmware installation is possible for those PS3 consoles that have an official software version no higher than 3.55. The software version can be seen when the console is turned on in the system settings (this information is not on the box or on the console body).
For some consoles with a higher software version, possible return to 3.55. The procedure for downgrading a software version is called downgrade. Downgrading the software version is not possible for all set-top boxes. To determine whether this operation is possible on your console, you need to find out its type.
For consoles that cannot be downgraded to 3.55, it is possible to install a drive emulator (ODE), more details at the link.
PS3 consoles have been in production since 2006, during which time several varieties have been released. You can determine which console you have by the appearance of the case, as well as by the markings on the back of the console.
The label contains information about console model and its date code. The date code encrypts the time period when the console was released, in the format: GK (Y = year, K = quarter). For example, the inscription: “Data Code: 0B” means that the set-top box was produced in the second quarter (from April to June) of 2010 (the last digit of the year is indicated in the code).
- PS3 Fat (2006 - 2009).
- Date codes: 6C to 9B.
- Models: "CECHA" to "CECHQ".
- Downgrade possible for all consoles.
- PS3 Slim (2009 - 2012).
- Date codes: 9C to 2B.
- Models: "CECH2XXX" to "CECH3XXX".
- Downgrade possible for all consoles with a date code of no more than 1A and for some consoles with a date code of 1B.
- For set-top boxes with codes 1C and higher, downgrading is not possible.
- PS3 Super Slim (2012 - ...).
- Date codes: from 2C.
- with "CECH40XX".
- Downgrade is not possible for all consoles.
More information about the differences between PS3 models can be found here.
On set-top boxes whose software version cannot be downgraded to firmware 3.55, you can install another modification - a drive emulator (ODE).
The PS3 downgrade service implies:
- Downgrade official console software (to perform the procedure, a special programmer is soldered onto the board).
PS3 firmware service includes:
- Installing a modified version Software instead of the official one.
- Installing an additional shell for managing a collection of games on the disk, as well as for launching them, - MultiMan or Rogero Manager.
- Testing the installed system to run games.
We install the most current versions all programs and systems.
Flashing PlayStation 3 takes less than an hour.
Downgrading the software version on PS3 requires about 2-3 hours, since the service includes many steps that require a very careful and thoughtful approach. Depending on the console, it may take more or less time. The inspector will tell you the approximate time for the work to be completed.
- The cost of firmware for consoles with software version 3.55 and lower is 900 rubles.
- The cost of downgrading a PS3 (lowering the software version) to 3.55 is 2000 rubles.
- The cost of downgrading a PS3 and subsequent console firmware is 2,500 rubles.
Prices include the entire installation procedure, as well as the cost of consumables. This is the final amount; you won’t need to pay anything extra.
All PS3 firmware and downgrade work is provided 2 week warranty.
High-quality firmware and downgrade of the PlayStation 3 at home is impossible, as it requires specialized equipment and materials. Therefore, we do not carry out this work on site.
You can flash a PS3, as well as downgrade a PS3, in one of our workshops, the addresses are on the contact page
Note! Pre-arrangement required with our operator about the date and time of your visit.
Work schedules and installation conditions may vary from workshop to workshop. Our consultant will tell you more details over the phone.
