PSP Hardware Resource Center

The Sony PlayStation Portable, PSP, is a handheld video game and multimedia entertainment device. The system isn't quite pocket-sized at 6.75-by-2.75-by-0.75 inches, but Sony packed as much as it could into the package. The system can play PSP games, UMD movies, and music or video files stored on Memory Stick Duo flash media.

The system has a UMD drive that can read PSP games and feature-length movies. UMD, or Universal Media Disc, is an optical disc format Sony designed for the PSP. UMDs are smaller than regular CDs and can hold up to 1.8GB of data. UMD games take longer to load than card or cartridge games, but disc-based games tend to have better graphics because they have more storage capacity for game assets.

The most distinguishing feature of the PSP is its 4.3-inch widescreen LCD. The display has the resolution (480x272), brightness, and contrast ratio to create a striking image you would never expect from a handheld. Sony has recently updated the PSP with a new video output connector that lets the PSP drive a full-size display, such as TV. The PSP can output movies and display photos as high as 720x480 resolution, but games will be windowboxed with a 480x272 resolution.

Games on the PSP tend to be very similar to console games because of the PSP's powerful hardware, as well as its conventional control scheme. The PSP offers the traditional D pad and button-set game controls, as well as a new analog stub located right below the D pad. The stub functions like an analog stick but sits flush against the system instead of protruding up like a traditional analog stick. Popular PlayStation first- and third-party franchises, including Grand Theft Auto, Final Fantasy, Metal Gear Solid, Burnout, Tekken, God of War, and many more have made it to the portable.

PSP System Configurations

What color PSP do you want and what accessories do you want in the box? Visit the hardware configuration section to see what PSP systems are available.

PSP Online

Find out what the PSP can do online and what it can do over a local wireless network.

PSP Accessories

The PSP has one must-have accessory and a couple that fill specific needs.