The Linux Kit for PlayStation 2 was released by Sony in 2002 and included the Linux software, keyboard, mouse, VGA adapter, Network Adaptor (Ethernet only) and a 40 GB hard disk drive (HDD). An 8 MB memory card dedicated to Linux is required.

The Linux Kit turns the PlayStation 2 into a full fledged computer system, but does not allow for use of the DVD-ROM drive. Although the HDD included with the Linux Kit is not compatible with PlayStation 2 games, reformatting the HDD with the utility disc provided with the retail HDD enables use with PlayStation 2 games. The Network Adaptor included with the kit only supports ethernet, a driver download is available to enable modem support. The kit supports display on, "Sync on green" monitors or television sets. VGA adapters are available from 3rd party companies.

PS2 Linux distribution is based on Kondara Linux , a Japanese distribution itself based on Red Hat Linux. PS2 Linux is similar to Red Hat 6. It has most of the features one might expect in a Red Hat 6 system. The stock kernel is 2.2.1 but it is possible to replace this with a newer kernel (eg 2.2.21 and 2.2.26).

The Linux kit's primary purpose is amateur software development, but it is possible to use it as one would use any other computer. Noted open source software that compiles on the kit includes: Mozilla, Mozilla Firefox, Mozilla Thunderbird, X-Chat, and Gaim. Light-weight applications perhaps better suited to the PS2's 32MB of RAM include xv, Dillo, Ted, and Abiword.

The USB ports of the console can be connected to external devices, such as printers, cameras, flash drives, and CD drives.

As of 2003 this kit is offically no longer sold in the USA, but is possible to import or buy on an auction site like eBay.

See also

• Net Yaroze

External Links

• PS2 Linux Community FAQ
• Sync on Green Monitor Compability List
• PS2 Amateur Developers Community
• European Official Site
• Japanese Official Site