PS2 Linux Kit out in US and Europe @ $200

ZDNet\'s Article

The Gist:

It includes hardware and software for essentially turning the PlayStation 2 games console into a Linux PC, with a 40GB hard disk, 10/100Mbps network adapter, USB keyboard and mouse, monitor cable and a Linux installation DVD-ROM. The hard drive can\'t be used with PS2 games, Sony warned.

So, here you go.  If your a small time programmer, with time on your hands?  Go for it baby!
I suppose, if your too cheap to buy a PC with linux, you could do this too.  

Order it in the USA
Order it in Australia

It includes hardware and software for essentially turning the PlayStation 2 games console into a Linux PC, with a 40GB hard disk, 10/100Mbps network adapter, USB keyboard and mouse, monitor cable and a Linux installation DVD-ROM. The hard drive can\'t be used with PS2 games, Sony warned.

Apparently, there is a way to set a second partition for PS2 games. A developer also confirmed this.

And for the others who are interested, here\'s the link to order the Linux-kit in Europe:

http://www.linuxplay.com

I ordered mine and I\'ll be back within 7 days to post my impressions. Who else ordered one btw?

I\'ll prolly buy it if, when you get it, you can partition it to be used for games, maybe and 10/30 split, I guess.  I would also like to know if the keyboard and stuff will be compatible with games that will allow for typing and keyboards...

I\'ll check it out as soon as I get it. I\'m pretty sure you can partitionize the HD... if not, then I\'d be seriously disappointed since it isn\'t quite cheap.

And the keyboard and mouse should be compatible with the games that support it. After all, it\'s just a USB keyboard and mouse...

*drool*

When I do finally get a PS2 for myself, I\'ll have to pick up one of these.  I could have a lot of fun with one of those, especially if the harddrive can be used for PS2 games.

I have just received my Linux Kit yesterday, and I hooked it up to my computer monitor. The Keyboard and Mouse work with games, especially ones that are online ready. :eyemouth: I used the mouse with Silent Scope, and it makes the game tons easier. When I Beta-Tested the Network Adapter, I used a Sharkboard with my PS2, so I could chat in lobbies with other people who were also Beta-Testing. You can preorder a linux kit at  http://www.us.playstation.com/product_detail/product_detail.jhtml?PRODID=337933&CATID=490&_requestid=6598
Hope everyone gets one and helps others learn Linux.  I have to learn it myself, as well. Sounds like it\'ll be fun!  :thepimp:

What desktops are available on it?  Gnome?  KDE?

Originally posted by EmperorRob
What desktops are available on it?  Gnome?  KDE?

I think it\'s the X-Windows desktop.

BTW: ManKiller,
do you know how to partitionize the HD so you can use them with games? And, is there a way to save your memorycard saves - or get copy data of the memorycard while Linux is running? LOL, guess I just can\'t wait until I get mine.. hehe

Gnome and KDE run on top of XFree86.  So does WindowMaker and Blackbox and Enlightenment.  I\'m hoping they will all be supported.

Unfortunately, I still don\'t know enough about the linux kit yet, but when I know more I will let anyone know. I will look up anything I can about partitioning the HDD for games, if anyone knows that I talk to.

cool & thanks. I\'ll probably get my linux kit by the end of this week, although I still have to find a monitor that will work first.

One other thing; I read that you need a memorycard for the linuxkit? For what and how much of space? Or do I need to get another new memorycard?

tia

Yes, you will need a new memory card for PS2. Get an official one, as that is the only way to assure no problems. You need the memory card to use kind of like a boot disc that a computer uses. It is used to boot Linux. You will Not be able to use this card for Anything else, so make sure to sticker or label this memory card. It is also recommended to buy a second memory card. This may seem pricey, but it is a good idea in case your original gets corrupt or damaged data. It says this in the Linux manual, which may be silly but I did it to be safe. :wedge: You can probably find out more about this at the official Linux website, at http://playstation2-linux.com/ - Lots of good stuff to know there! :hat:

thanks for the info. I\'ve done some research btw, and it seems to be confirmed that you can use the PS2-Linux and the games. The only thing is, well, you will need to get your hands on one of those Utility-discs that ships with the normal HDD (for games). By inserting the disc, you\'ll be able to format the HD in a way so that it will work for games. After that, you\'re pretty free to install Linux (using the approapriate CD that comes with the kit) on a secondary partition. I\'m not sure if you have to install the partition for the games first though - but I\'ll do some more research and see what I can find out.

I would like to get this kit but I want to be able to use the hard drive for more then just Linux. So till I can find out for sure if it can be used for other things I shall wait.

what other things would you like the HD for?