Sony's latest handheld gaming device, the PSP (model 2000) offers various improvements over its predecessor. It boasts more RAM to make game load times a little faster and is now able to output video straight to the TV. The PSP's smaller size is also more pocket-friendly. The device provides the same great game play and media abilities that made the original PSP a success.
Thinner and Lighter: Measuring 6.6 by 2.8 by 0.6 inches (HWD), the PSP's shape has been streamlined in a way that is noticeable when you place the PSP 2000 next to the original, which measures 6.7 by 2.9 by 0.9 inches. The major difference between the two, however, is that the PSP 2000 weighs about a third less. When using the PSP 2000 for an extended time, the lower weight makes it really easy on the hands; those seasoned by hours of game play on the original model will feel the difference instantly.
Slightly Improved Design and Controls: The wavelike bulges on the old PSP, which covered the battery and Memory Stick slot on both sides and curved beneath the middle and index fingers, are gone. The PSP 2000's screen is the same as the original's and, unfortunately, just as smudge-prone (fingerprints all over lah).
The four-way direction pad, as well as the familiar "diamond" buttons (triangle, circle, square, and x), have been slightly elevated, offering greater feedback. (true aso lah.. but i never felt PSP-2000 yet, hence i dunno how much greater)
Another physical refinement is that the new PSP's UMD (Universal Media Disc) slot has a less mechanical structure than the original and is easier to operate. Instead of the dedicated button found on the old PSP, all that's required to open the UMD drive is a simple tug on the cover hatch. Placing a UMD in its grove within the opened hinge, then closing the hatch, is the easiest way to load discs.
The Memory Stick Duo slot has been moved to the left of the D-Pad, and the Wi-Fi switch has been placed on top of the unit, next to the mini USB port. The speakers, now elevated above the D-Pad and the "diamond" buttons, are actually better positioned for stereo listening. But the low volume levels that plagued the original PSP remain an issue.
Video output: The new PSP features an AV output jack (which doubles as a standard headphone connector). With the purchase of a special breakout cable, we can display the PSP's audio and video on virtually any TV. But there are a few notable caveats--most notably, the maximum video resolution varies according to the content displayed. Video content from UMD discs (prerecorded movies) and Memory Stick (home-ripped videos) can be displayed at DVD-level 720x480 resolutions, though quality will vary depending upon how the compression of the video in question. But games are locked into the PSP's native 480x272 display. So, if the TV doesn't have a robust zoom function, we're stuck with a window-boxed experience for games. Another potentially bigger problem with games is that they don't seem to even work on TVs that can't handle progressive-scan (480p) output. So while nearly any HDTV should be fine (with the component cable), older televisions will be limited to displaying non-gaming video output.
Faster Loading: The new PSP utilizes a system setting called "UMD Cache" that enables faster loading of game discs. PSP's extra RAM, It's got 64MB versus the 32MB on the original
USB Charging: The PSP 2000 runs firmware version 3.60, which is installed by default and comes with a new feature called USB Charge, which fully charges the PSP via a computer's USB port in roughly 5 hours. At first, USB Charge sounds like a welcome addition, but using it proves more of a hassle than a convenience. Unlike nearly all other devices that are able to charge over USB, the PSP must remain on in order to charge. Additionally, we must enable the USB Charge utility for charging to begin; simply connecting the PSP to the computer will not cut it. Another downside is that the 5 hours the PSP takes to charge over USB is nearly twice as long as charging via AC (kebodohan Sony. Maybe the later version of PSP-200x will fix this issue... hopefully lah)
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