Wednesday, January 28, 2009

It's not just a Gaming Console - Playstation 3

By Matt Ryan

The Playstation 3 has to be the best Playstation Sony has ever released. It not only offers consumers a solid gaming console, but it stands as a Blu-Ray disc player as well. It has hoards of new technologies; the Playstation 3 can finally stand proudly next to other gaming consoles.

The Playstation 3 is available in multiple different sizes - meaning the hard drive size. (This is also how Microsoft's Xbox 360s are sold.) On the larger systems, you are not just paying for additional space; you are paying for bonus functionality.

Take for example, the 80GB console. This console supports many of the older PS2 games - meaning you can play these old games on the new console. The 40GB console - on the other hand - does not support PS2 games. (The 60GB console supports more PS2 games than the 80GB does; however, it has been discontinued.)

Both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity are available on the PS3. The Ethernet connection is easily accessible on the back panel of the unit. An HDMI, SPDIF, and Playstations AV output are all accessible from the back panel of the PS3.

The PS3 measures 12.8-inches x 3.8-inches x 10.8-inches, which makes it the perfect size for nearly anywhere in your home. You can easily stand it up right, or lay it down on its side for convenience. Whichever way it is stored, the optical-disk drive is easily accessible as it is front-loading. There is no need to push an eject button, simply slide a disk into the slot and you are on your way to entertainment.

Also along the front are four USB ports. These ports are designed for charging your controllers; however, are also used for connecting to any USB device (keyboard, mouse, camera, jump-drive, etc). You will also find slots for CompactFlash, SD Memory Card and Memory Stick Duo card, within a small compartment on the front casing of the console.

Sony caught up with other gaming manufacturers, as their controllers are now wireless. The only reason for plugging them into the console, anymore, is for re-charging the battery. One pitfall; however, is that the batteries are not replaceable. If a battery were to die, you would have to replace the entire controller with the purchase of another one.

Stepping ahead of the Xbox 360, the PS3 not incorporates motion-sensitive controllers. The controllers are sensitive to six different motions: forward, backward, up, down, left and right. These motions perform different actions based on the particular game that you are playing. The technology is not near as advanced as that found in the WII, but it is there to be improved upon.

In addition to the new gaming technologies, the PS3 offers a multitude of multi-media functionality. Images can be presented in albums or slide shows, like no other gaming console offers. Your favorite music can be stored and played endlessly. DVDs, Blu-ray discs, and even other video formats can be watched through your new PS3.

You can pick up a PS3 for anywhere from $300 - $500; price will vary based on hard drive size. Overall, the price is pretty sufficient for all the perks you get with the system. An entertainment system and gaming console all for under $600. The PS3 would be a great addition to an entertainment center or game room. - 16003

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