The PSP is very popular in the hacker community. It is easy to modify and there are many alternative programs available. Follow this guide to unlock the PSP.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Understand the basics
Step 1. Understand the modification of the PSP
By unlocking the PSP you will have access to many alternative programs. This type of software is called Homebrew and ranges from games to work programs.
- An unlocked PSP can also run emulators to play games from other consoles.
- An unlocked PSP can also run game images without having the original copy. This is for backup purposes only.
Step 2. Know the different types of changes
Over the years, different types of modifications have been created. Now that the console is no longer supported, there is a standard change that works on all systems with the latest official version.
Method 2 of 3: Prepare for the change
Step 1. Find the model number of the PSP
This determines the type of software you can install during and after the change. There are 2 different processes:
- For older PSPs: Open the battery compartment, look to the right of the Sony logo and you will see "PSP-XXXX". See if yours is 1XXX, 2XXX or 3XXX.
- For the PSP Go, open the display and look in the upper left corner. You should see the code N1XXX.
- The ideal model is 2XXX or older. 3XXX and PSP Go can be modified but you will have some limitations on what you can do.
Step 2. Update the PSP
Make sure you update it to version 6.60. Use the system update or download the file from the Sony site.
- If you download it from the site: copy the file to the PSP by connecting it to your PC. Copy the file to the / GAME / UPDATE folder and update.
- To copy files to the PSP you need to put the console in USB mode. Connect it to your PC, scroll the menu to the left until you see the settings, then choose USB mode. The PSP will then be accessible from the PC.
Step 3. Download the modified firmware
You will need PRO-C which is easily found on the internet. Extract the file and copy it to the PSP in the PSP / GAME folder.
Method 3 of 3: Install the firmware
Step 1. Install the copied firmware
Go to the Game menu. Find the PRO Update icon and select it with the X button. Some options will appear. Press X to install the firmware. After a moment you will receive the completion message. Press X to start the firmware.
Step 2. Edit the IPL
For the 1XXX and 2XXX PSPs you will need to start the CIPL Flasher from the Game menu. This will change the IPL (Initial Program Loader) which will set the new firmware when the system starts.
Step 3. Run Fast Recovery
For PSP 3XXX and PSP Go, you will need to perform Fast Recovery after each boot because the IPL cannot be changed on these models. Fast Recovery will load firmware on boot.
Step 4. Delete the installation files
After changing the IPL, the PSP is unlocked and ready to play. You can delete the CIPL and PRO Update files. Keep Fast Recovery if you use 3XXX or Go.
