Ask PS3 Fanboy: Volume 9

Keep checking back every weekend -- we'll be sure to answer all intelligent, fun, and relevant questions that you may have. If you haven't asked us anything yet ... why haven't you? Send an e-mail to majed @ ps3fanboy.com with the subject "Ask PS3 Fanboy." We'd like to stress, if your e-mail doesn't include that subject heading, your question will not be answered. If you've got PSP-related questions, be sure to ask them on Ask PSP Fanboy.

PS3F answers: Yes, it's been available since July. It's called the "PlayStation Network Portable ID." It links your PSN account to your PlayStation Underground (Official PlayStation community) account. You can read the full details here.
Conor R. asks: Is it possible to earn trophies for your PSN ID while not signed in to the PlayStation Network?
PS3F answers: Yes. Your Trophy data is stored in your save files which are linked directly to your local user account on your PS3. Once online, your Trophy data will sync with your PSN ID.
Jesse M., Josh E. ask: Do you have a list of games with custom soundtracks?
PS3F answers: We don't have a list but -- off the top of our heads -- we remember these: Burnout Paradise, Warhawk, WipEout HD, Super Stardust HD, and MotorStorm: Pacific Rift, NovaStrike all have a custom soundtrack option.
Andrew O. asks: On a scale of one to ten, what are the chances of Trophies for PlayStation Home? They could be really silly/crazy like earn 15 platinum Trophies, be a clan member in five games, have a house party with 25+ people, spend $200 on furniture for your apartment, have 200 people on your friend list, etc etc. What are the chances of this happening?
Andrew answers: I'd like to think there are no Trophies for Home. Imagine how horrible it would be if your "spend $200 on furniture" Trophy were actually real. If anything, there should be Trophies for Folding@home. One hour of folding = Bronze. Five hours of folding = Silver. The Platinum Trophy unlocks when you cure cancer.
Majed answers: That's a pretty nice idea! However, since it's technically not a game and it is a service ... I'd highly doubt that it would happen. I'd want it happen though. So, 3 out of 10 in my book.

Sergio V. asks: Is it true that installing a 7200rpm HDD on the PlayStation 3 can overheat the console?
PS3F answers: No, it won't overheat. For reference, the HDD that comes with the PS3 is a Fujitsu 40GB 2.5-inch SATA (model:MHW2040BH) running at 5400rpm.
Eduardo L. asks: I just got my PS3 and I noticed that it comes with an average AV cable. I'm planning on upgrading it to component as my TV supports it (although it isn't HD). But as I live in Brazil the Sony cables are way more expensive than 3rd party's like Logitech and I wanted to know if I would lose some image quality buying 3rd party products instead of Sony's original?
PS3F answers: It's a shame that you don't have an HDTV. If you had HDMI input, a cable would cost you no more than $5 (despite what store clerks say, just look at Amazon) and the image quality would be far better. However, if you don't have an HDTV, using a component cable will not make PS3 games look any better than using the standard composite cable. If you have an EDTV, we recommend buying the cheapest component cable you can get -- first-party AV cables aren't known to be of a better quality.
Roger P. asks: Where are the weekly wallpapers?
PS3F answers: That's a good question. Where are they? We're thinking of reviving this section soon. All in due time, Roger. All in due time.
Yuki M. asks: I was wondering what is the process of connecting a Bluetooth headset to the PS3? Will there be additional steps once in games like Metal Gear Online? And which headsets are of good quality (i.e. good brand/model)?
PS3F answers: All right, process first: turn on the headset and put it into "pairing mode" (this is done differently on different sets so you'll have to check your instruction manual). Now go on your PS3 and select "Accessory Settings" from "Settings" on the XMB. Go to "Manage Bluetooth Devices" and scan; your headset should be picked up. You'll then have to enter a pass key (again, check the manual). Your headset should be recognized by the PS3 now. You can adjust volume under "Audio Device Settings" and play around with the "Voice Changer." There is no additional set up once inside the game, though each game will obviously have its own 'controls' on how chat works. As for what to get ... why not pick up the official PS3 headset? It comes with SOCOM Confrontation for $60, and will offer a slew of crazy PS3-exclusive features. AND it works with your cell phone.
Evan S. asks: Do you recommend the SOCOM: Confrontation bundle? Is the new mic worth the price?
PS3F answers: Considering that the headset is priced at $50 as a standalone product, while the SOCOM bundle gives it to you for about $10 ... that should really give you a clear idea of what we're thinking. It's a great deal, especially if you're really into SOCOM.
David J. (as do a ton of other people) asks: Will we ever see MGS4 trophies? I ask because I see that you guys don't have it on your will be patched list nor is it on your will not be patched list. Thanks in advance.
Majed answers: I don't think it will ever happen. I believe there is good reason for the game to have come out before the 2.40 patch. This has been a game that's been so long in development and was delayed at the last minute -- I just think the crew have moved on. They've made yet again another stellar game and that's all that matters. If you need Trophies to play this, all I have to say is you're missing out and completely missing the point of playing Metal Gear Solid.
Andrew answers: Totally agreed with Majed. The Japanese aren't into Achievements/Trophies as much as the rest of us, it seems. If Trophies are ever added into the game, I wouldn't be surprised if they're for the inevitable re-release of MGS4.









Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Squirtforce @ Sep 13th 2008 6:20PM
There are a couple bad bits of info in here. Using a component or s-video instead of the standard composite the ps3 comes with WILL be better looking. THe picture is definitely sharper. Composite is pretty much bottom of the barel, even for SDTV.
And the example given about a drive upgrade doesn't make sense. A 7200rpm drive of course gives off more heat so why make the example that the ps3 comes with a 5400rpm drive? I think the odds of a ps3 overheating definitely increases if you put a more heat-producing drive into it...
Pat @ Sep 14th 2008 1:35AM
Absolutely: a Component connection will provide better quality. The images are sharp instead of the fuzzy blend of a poor composite cable.
Brand of cable won't affect image quality at a noticeable level. Component cables use RCA connectors just as the composite cables. If the PS3 had direct component output using RCA connectors you could use any cheap AV cable to connect it to your tv and see the image still sharp.
Eduardo, get the Component cables. You won't regret it.
The Aggie CEO @ Sep 13th 2008 7:42PM
480p>480i.......gotcha.......but hell.........its REALLY not THAT big of a difference considering.......
if you get a GOOD HDD then its not gonna overheat the PS3......I mean of COURSE all we have to go off of is the word of various people, but from everyone I have read that has done it they havent had any extra heat problems afterwards...........they didnt put 7200rpm drives in the PS3 because of the cost.........not for fear of it overheating the system....
squirtforce @ Sep 13th 2008 9:35PM
It's got nothing to do with the frames being interlaced or progressive. Composite just sucks.
http://blog.wired.com/photos/uncategorized/wiicomp.jpg
S-video or component will just be sharper. AND I KNOW THAT'S THE WII, but it would apply to ps3, a dvd player, or anything that squirts out video signal.
Josh @ Sep 13th 2008 9:55PM
a component connection will always look better than composite. the connection splits the colors so it just looks better on the tv instead of everything being mashed together in the same video signal. is it going to be a jaw dropping difference? no, but better? yes. if you want jaw dropping go from a SDTV to a HDTV connected to your ps3 via HDMI. Now thats an improvement, although an expensive one.
Strike Man @ Sep 13th 2008 10:18PM
*Agrees with Squirtforce*
Even without a jump to HD (or ED), the component cables will show a vast improvement over the included composite cables.
I guess maybe some people are fans of color bleed and dot crawl?
Iain @ Sep 14th 2008 12:13AM
Yep I agree with you.
might also have noted 7200 drives don't make a big difference either. They are not much faster with loads etc.
I hate trophies, makes me want to get them and I quit having fun... OCD maybe.
VeganTnT @ Sep 14th 2008 12:22AM
Changing the hard drive isn't going to overheat the system. Remember that sony made it user replaceable for a reason. They had to take into account that you are going to put in a faster or higher capacity drive.
John-Paul-Jones @ Sep 14th 2008 10:11AM
I'm planning to get a bigger hard drive, so I'm guessing there won't be a noticeable difference (whether it be slow loading times or minute heating issues) between 5400rpm and 7200rpm?
Eric E @ Sep 15th 2008 9:32AM
I agree, he has a EDTV (enhanced Def) which is made for Component Cables to get Progressive Scan (480p) which is better than composites interlaced (480i).
not as big as a difference to HD but still better, thats why they made those TV's.
Also tests have shown that the 7200rpm drives do load a little bit faster, 10-15 sec a minute i think, and a little hotter. Final verdict? Not worth extra $, but if they were the same price(and/or bigger) or cheaper then go for it.
Squirtforce @ Sep 15th 2008 10:03AM
http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/138288/7200rpm-vs-5400rpm-does-ps3-hard-drive-speed-matter/
Nah, not worth doing. Looks like best case you get a couple seconds but most of the time it's under a second difference. And they do run hotter...
I recently found a 250GB online that I upgraded to and I think I Paid under 80 bucks shipped for it. Deals are out there!
KneeNAR @ Sep 15th 2008 11:22AM
What if you just added an extra cooling device at the back?? We used to sell those at work... --rummages--
Extinction @ Sep 13th 2008 6:23PM
Considering Hideo asked Sony to have trophies ready by MGS4s launch, they should be working on trophy support.
We don't need an excuse to play MGS4 once, we do need an excuse to play it again and trophies are a big excuse.
Kholar @ Sep 13th 2008 6:36PM
That simple fact is what a lot of people don't seem to understand when people complain about not having trophies. Playing through an awesome game 2 or 3 times is fun...why not enhance the game with trophies and give us an excuse to play it 3 or 4 times.
altctrlpwn @ Sep 14th 2008 12:20PM
"We don't need an excuse to play MGS4 once, we do need an excuse to play it again . . ."
Speak for yourself, I'm on my fourth playthrough. I think that's what emblems are for, but if you feel the need to "show off" to your friends, well then, that's your problem.
duckhunt8 @ Sep 13th 2008 6:34PM
I'm still waiting on info for MGS4 trophies. I just need to know, yes or no! Konami really needs to tell me to either "forget it" or "just wait for it."
It's all I ask.
DavidJuaquin @ Sep 13th 2008 7:08PM
My thoughts exactly.
Luiz @ Sep 13th 2008 6:36PM
Can you guys find out when is Sony planning to move forward with their E3 announcement about introducing the PlayStation 3 to South America and more specifically, Brazil?
Thanks!
DavidJuaquin @ Sep 13th 2008 7:05PM
Thanks for answering my question Majed & Andrew.
DavidJuaquin @ Sep 13th 2008 7:06PM
Thanks for answering my question Majed & Andrew.
Sean Sean @ Sep 13th 2008 7:11PM
Have you got any news on the littlebigplanet open beta? When will it be realesed?
Also, have you heard anything about the price and realese date of the european Guitar Hero: World Tour?
I know this is a long shot, but any news on Home? Where is it? :)
The Aggie CEO @ Sep 13th 2008 7:15PM
ROFLMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Aggie CEO @ Sep 13th 2008 7:16PM
"If anything, there should be Trophies for Folding@home. One hour of folding = Bronze. Five hours of folding = Silver. The Platinum Trophy unlocks when you cure cancer."
I know its wrong to laugh at this but dammit I cant help it......lol
Doug @ Sep 13th 2008 7:25PM
When is Life with Playstation coming out?
kevin @ Sep 13th 2008 7:31PM
never.
The Aggie CEO @ Sep 13th 2008 7:42PM
when you stop touching yourself.........
itbekevin2010 @ Sep 13th 2008 9:04PM
ha ha yeah like in family guy
"why did the dinasours extinct?"
because you touch urself at night
hahaha
itbekevin2010 @ Sep 13th 2008 7:29PM
lol
whats his psn ?
lorddshadow @ Sep 13th 2008 8:13PM
that platinum trophy for when you cure cancer sounds awesome!!! and probably the hardest trophy to get ever.
Zimon @ Sep 13th 2008 9:13PM
PAIN has custom soundtrack. PixelJunk Eden too but you have to find all Spectra (beat the game) to unlock it.
Michael @ Sep 13th 2008 9:15PM
Does anyone know how to access the custom soundtracks on WarHawk. I went looking for it the other day, but came up short.
Zimon @ Sep 13th 2008 9:18PM
Just press the HOME/PS-button, I forgot what it's called, and go to Music in the XMB. I think Warhawk and PJ Eden are the only two games to allow XMB-Music-Play atm.
matthew_neitzer @ Sep 13th 2008 9:47PM
While playing the game, press the PlayStation button. Then choose a song or playlist to play. It is that simple. :P
matthew_neitzer @ Sep 13th 2008 9:48PM
I didn't see your comment just a second ago, Zimon. >> You are 100% right though.
Cody P. @ Sep 13th 2008 11:30PM
What will be included in the 160GB Play Station 3 Bundle?
The Rickster! @ Sep 14th 2008 5:31AM
uncharted: drake's fortune, i think.
Bran @ Sep 14th 2008 2:36AM
Is it better for the earth if I use 2ply toilet paper instead of 4ply?
ZeroCorpse @ Sep 14th 2008 1:16PM
That depends completely on what you're using it for.
Paul @ Sep 14th 2008 1:40AM
Hey, do you guys know when Sony will give full support to Latin America? It's really a pain not to have a store for my country (by the way, sorry if I have bad grammar :P)
Groundskeeper Willie @ Sep 14th 2008 4:57AM
"However, if you don't have an HDTV, using a component cable will not make PS3 games look any better than using the standard composite cable. "
This is completely wrong, component cables make a huge difference over composite on an SDTV, mainly because it's not compressing all the colour information to send it down one wire. I think you should change the article.
ry @ Sep 14th 2008 9:58AM
This answer alone shows that "Ask a PS3 Fanboy" is no better than using Yahoo Answers. Fail.
ZeroCorpse @ Sep 14th 2008 1:18PM
While there will be a small improvement in quality, I think the article is still right to tell him not to bother if the cables are very expensive for him, because the improvement isn't going to be mind-blowing.
However, having the component cables will be nice when he does, eventually, upgrade to an HDTV. Nothing sucks more than having to input via composite on an HDTV.
wmchiefs @ Sep 15th 2008 3:48PM
Are there any apps available that would allow me to integrate/control my ps3 with my iphone?
Nate @ Sep 15th 2008 9:00AM
There's totally a huge difference in quality between component and composite even on a mid-range SDTV. There's a ton less noise, the picture is sharper, and colors will be brighter. Definitely try to find a component cable if at all possible. I guarantee the difference will be immediately noticeable and significant.