PS3 Guide
Launched in November 2006, PlayStation 3 had a rough first year but has gone on to become an excellent gaming machine and every bit the equal of Microsoft's Xbox 360. Sony's PS3 has three things that make it a worthwhile purchase: An incredible variety of game types, superior hardware allowing for unparalleled graphics and audio, and a built-in Blu-ray player.
Whether you recently purchased a PS3 or are considering buying one, this guide will get you quickly up to speed on everything you need to know. We'll help you get set it up, hop online, and find the right games for you.
So let's get into it. The quicker we catch you up on what you need to know about the PS3, the sooner you'll be enjoying every aspect of your new system. Check out the sections below so you can get started.
- Getting Started
- What to Buy
- PS3 "Slim" vs. "Fat"
- Optional Items
- Setting Up
Getting Started with PS3
If you're in the market for a PlayStation 3, you'll need to decide which version is the right one for you, and there are a few additional items you might need. Let's take a look at what you'll need to pick up from the store, get your system connected, and get you on your way.
What to Buy
Sony offers two versions of the PlayStation 3. There are no differences between the two except for the amount of space on the hard drive. The less expensive version includes a 160 GB hard drive, while the pricier offering has a 320 GB hard drive.
Sounds like a lot of hard drive space, right? Well, keep in mind that there a dozens of downloadable games on the PlayStation Store. On top of this, many games will install directly to your hard drive in order to run better. That space can quickly fill up.
The good news is that PS3 is compatible to other external hard drives, so you always have the option to connect a larger hard drive if you ever run out of room.
Both the 160 GB and the 320 GB versions of the PS3 come with:
- PlayStation "Slim" system
- Blu-ray player (built-in)
- Wi-fi for easy, wireless Internet connection
- 1 DualShock 3 wireless controller
- AC power cord
- Composite AV cable (for old TVs)
- USB cable
- Some specially marked boxes include an HDMI cable
"Slim" vs. "Fat"
The original PS3 system has a gloss black finish, a curved shell, and is fairly bulky. Not long ago, Sony introduced what is affectionately termed the PS3 Slim. If you buy a PS3 new, you'll almost certainly be receiving the Slim. It has a matte (non-glossy) black finish, is more angular, and is lighter than the original PS3.
If you choose to purchase a used system, you may get the older version. There are only minor differences between the Slim and the "fat" system. If the aesthetics of the original don't bother you, it's a fine option at a lower price - you might even get the now-discontinued PlayStation 2 backwards compatibility.
Optional Items
While the PS3 comes with everything you need to start gaming or watching Blu-ray discs, there are a few optional items you might want to consider picking up. For some, these items won't be necessary, but give them a look and make certain you won't have a need for any of them.
- HDMI Cable: The majority of PS3s only come with composite cables, which are only useful if you have a really old TV. If you've purchased a flat-screen TV in the past five years, chances are you have at least one HDMI port. Don't be tricked into purchasing an "official" HDMI cable. Any standard (AKA cheap) HDMI cable will do the trick.
- Headset: The PS3 is compatible with Bluetooth headsets. If you use a Bluetooth headset with your phone, then you're already set. There are some headset options you can find where you purchase your PS3, and any of these should do. But if none of them strike your fancy, you can hunt for a Bluetooth earpiece elsewhere. You only need a headset if you plan to play online games.
- Remote Control: Most TVs, satellite dish systems, VCRs, and DVD players use infrared sensors to receive information from remote controls. PS3 does not have an IR sensor, meaning that most universal remotes won't work with it. Only Bluetooth remotes work with the PS3. While there are Blu-ray menu controls on the standard DualShock 3 controller, they are clunky. If you prefer to use a more traditional-looking remote control, you'll need to either purchase a Bluetooth remote (there are some official PS3 remotes) or an adapter that can be plugged into the front of your PS3 to receive an IR signal.
- PlayStation Eye: One of Sony's best additions to the PS3, the PlayStation Eye is a camera and microphone that can sit on top of or below your TV. The Eye can be used for video chat with friends or to play a variety of games. It's more noteworthy use is with Singstar. As you play, the Eye records your performance, which you can then upload online and share with friends. The Eye is only as valuable as the games you'll use it for. We don't recommend picking one up until after you've settled in with your PS3 and have a good idea of the types of games you enjoy most.
Setting Up
Getting your PS3 connected is about as simple as can be, and getting started once you boot your system up is quick and painless.
Connect Your System
There's really not much to it, especially if you have a newer TV. In fact, it's so easy that if takes just four steps!
1. If you are using an HDMI cable, connect one end into the back of your PS3 and the other end into the HDMI port on your TV.
2. Plug the power cord into the back of the PS3 and then into a surge protector (recommended) or wall socket.
3. Connect a USB cable to the back of your Dualshock 3 controller and plug the other end into the USB slot in the front of the PS3.
4. Press the power button near the disc drive (or flick the power switch on the back of the old PS3 and then the power button).
5. Bonus step: Sit back and enjoy your PS3!
Want to see what's in the PS3 package? Watch our unboxing video.
Create a User
The first time you boot up your PS3, you'll be prompted to create a user profile. This profile is used to store settings and can be linked to a free online PlayStation account. You can create multiple profiles on your PS3 and your online name can be different than your user profile. In other words, don't worry too much about the name you choose.
The Xross Media Bar
After you've created a profile, you're dropped into the PS3's main menu, known as the Xross Media Bar (XMB). This can be a bit intimidating at first and even a bit difficult to find what you're looking for. We'll delve into the XMB in Using Your System. If you don't know how to start playing a game, watch a Blu-ray disc, or turn on parental controls, we'll guide you.
Once you get the hang of the Xross Media Bar, you'll have no trouble getting the most out of your PS3.