Sony PSP (Playstation Portable)

PSP is a gaming system and entertainment device

The PSP isn’t as powerful as its full-size console cousins, the PlayStation 2 or PlayStation 3. However, it surpasses the original Sony PlayStation in computing power.

The PSP went through several generations over the past 10 years. The next model reduced its footprint, became thinner and lighter, improved the display, and added a microphone. An even bigger redesign came in 2009 with the PSPgo, and the budget-friendly PSP-E1000 was released in 2011 at a lower price point.

Game PSP

All PSP models can play games from UMD discs except the PSP Go, Wii which does not include a UMD disc player. Games can also be purchased online and downloaded to the PSP and Xbox from Sony’s online PlayStation Store. The store is the primary method for buying new games on the PSP Go.

The original PSP launched with 25 game titles, such as  Untold Legends: Brotherhood of the Blade  ,  FIFA Soccer 2005  , and  Metal Gear Acid  . It represents different types of games, from sports to racing to adventure and role-playing. 

PSP as a Multimedia Entertainment Device

Like the full-size PlayStation console, the PSP can do more than just run video games. PS2, PS3, and PS4 can play discs such as DVDs and audio CDs. Finally, with PS4 Blu-ray discs, the PSP plays discs in the Universal Media Disc (UMD) format, which is also used for some movies and other content.

The PSP also features ports for Sony Memory Stick Duo and Memory Stick Pro Duo media, allowing it to play audio, video, and still image content as well.

With an upgrade to firmware, PSP-2000 models add TV output via a Composite, S-Video, Component, or D-Terminal cable from Sony purchased separately. TV output in standard 4:3 aspect ratio and 16:9 widescreen. 

PSP Connectivity

The PSP includes a USB 2.0 port and a serial port. Unlike PlayStation or PlayStation2, PSP is equipped with Wi-Fi to connect with other players wirelessly and, if firmware version 2.00 or higher, to the internet to surf the web. It also includes IrDA (infrared data association), but the average consumer doesn’t use it.

The newer PSP Go models bring Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity to the gaming system.

PSP Model and Technical Specifications

  • PSP-1000
  • PSP-2000 (also called PSP Slim or PSP Slim & Lite)
  • PSP-3000
  • PSP-E1000
  • PSP Go