A modder has achieved a technical milestone by transforming a PlayStation 2 into a functional handheld console. Instead of trimming the original board, they designed a custom board that relocates the main chips, achieving a compact form factor without losing compatibility with original games. A precision job bordering on engineering.
Custom design as the project's key 🛠️
The process involved relocating the processor, GPU, and controllers onto a smaller board while maintaining exact electrical connections. Any error in the routing could cause boot failures or graphical artifacts. Thermal management was another obstacle: the original chips were not designed for such a confined space, so copper heatsinks and a high-speed fan were added to prevent overheating.
Heat, sweat, and jet engine fan 🌬️
The creator managed to tame the thermal beast, but the fan noise is reminiscent of a drone taking off. Sure, playing GTA: San Andreas while waiting for the bus is possible, as long as you don't mind passengers thinking you're carrying a hair dryer in your backpack. The portable PS2 exists, but with headphones on and patience.