Description
This was the final major hardware revision of the original PlayStation 2, introducing several key changes and features:
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Built-in IR receiver for DVD remotes.
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New MechaCon chip, replacing the old one.
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SYSCON removal — its functions were merged into the new MechaCon.
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MechaCon software updates became possible through patches stored in the encrypted EEPROM (this feature was later exploited by MechaPwn).
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Removal of the IEEE 1394 (iLink) port.
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Progressive scan (480p) DVD playback, plus support for DVD±R/RW discs.
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Quieter fans compared to earlier revisions.
However, these models also saw a notable increase in MechaCon crash frequency, making the issue far more common than in earlier units.
Another interesting detail is a hidden BIOS feature. Two unused drivers — rom0:FLASH and rom0:XFROMMAN — were coded to support the XFROM, a memory card flash chip designed to operate as part of the DEV9 subsystem (similar to the HDD or network functions). The OSDSYS (main menu) was set up to load these drivers and look for system updates within the XFROM.
Sony, however, never released a network adapter revision with this hardware, leaving the feature unused. The only system that actually made use of it was the PSX DESR series.
