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Using your PS3

PlayStation®3

Using Other OS / Default System

If you are using another operating system, follow this guide before performing system software update version 3.21 or later.

The [Install Other OS] and [Default System] features have been deleted. If you update your system software to version 3.21 or later, you will not be able to use [Install Other OS] or [Default System] under [Settings] > [System Settings].

Notice for customers who are using another operating system
Before performing the system software update, follow the steps below:

Back up data from the other operating system
If you install the system software update, you will not be able to use the hard disk partitions used by the other operating system. The data saved in these partitions cannot be restored after the system software has been updated. Back up all data to storage media before updating the system software.

Using the hard disk partition for the PS3™ system software
If you want to allocate all of the hard disk for use by the PS3™ system software, you must format the hard disk. In this case, follow the steps below:

  1. Back up data
    Back up the necessary data by selecting [Settings] > [System Settings] > [Backup Utility]. For details about the backup utility feature, select here.

  2. Format the hard disk
    Format the hard disk by selecting [Settings] > [System Settings] > [Format Utility]. During the format operation, you will be asked to select a hard disk partition. Select [Use All for the PS3™ System]. For details about the format utility feature, select here.

  3. Update the system software
  4. Perform the system software update.

  5. Restore the data
  6. Restore the data that was backed up in step 1 by selecting [Settings] > [System Settings] > [Backup Utility].

Notice for customers who want to continue using another operating system
Do not update the system software if you want to keep using the [Install Other OS] and [Default System] features. If you choose to continue using another operating system, the following features will no longer be available:

  • Ability to sign in to PlayStation®Network and use PlayStation®Network features that require signing in to PlayStation®Network, such as online features of PlayStation®3 format software and chat features.
  • Playback of PlayStation®3 format software or Blu-ray Disc videos that require PS3™ system software version 3.21 or later.
  • Playback of copyright-protected videos that are stored on a media server (when DTCP-IP is enabled under [Settings] > [System Settings] > [Enable DTCP-IP]).
  • Use of new features and improvements that are available on PS3™ system software 3.21 or later.

Using your PS3

Setting the date and time automatically

Find out how to update the date and time on your PS3 every time you connect to PlayStation Network.


Audio output on PS3

Optimise your listening experience by connecting audio devices that support digital audio playback.


Error codes explained

PlayStation 3 error codes – what do they mean?


Install your PS3

Get connected and dive into a world of High Definition entertainment.


Video output on PS3

Optimise your viewing experience by setting the best resolution for your TV.


Initial set-up

Find out how to perform initial set-up after turning on your PS3 system.


Part names

Find your way around your PS3 system and your Wireless Controller.


Using Other OS / Default System


Use the information panel

The information panel is displayed on the upper right of the screen.


Copying text

You can copy text using the on-screen keyboard.


Use the XMB™ (XrossMediaBar)

Featuring Photo, Music, Video, Game and Network options, every PS3 journey starts with the ever-evolving XrossMediaBar.

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