QJ.net Game Discussion - PSP, Xbox, Wii, PS3, PSP Homebrew, and PSP Guides

**CoBrA2168** · 07-21-2006, 05:44 PM

This guide will provide extra-cautious precautions and tips for when you are either flashing the PSP or using applications that edit the "flash0" (i.e. internal, important files). None of these tips are required for a successful flash, but following all of these steps guarantee you won't end up with a paperweight. Remember, before flashing your PSP I recommend you read all of these tips.

I've compiled a list of tips for when flashing. If you have any to add, please post in this topic. (Note: They are in no particular order)

1. Format your Memory Stick. Formatting the memory stick before updating/flashing will ensure that nothing goes wrong with the files being read on the memory stick. Although upgrading without a formatted memory stick will most likely work, if you want to be extra-safe do this.

2. Use a larger-size Memory Stick (more than 32MB). As we have seen with some newer applications (e.g. Dark Alex's Downdater Test 0.5), they require more memory than 32MB because they might write files to the stick (logs, etc.). Unless you know for sure the flasher works with lower-size memory sticks, then I recommend a larger stick.

3. Use brand-name Memory Stick (Sandisk or Sony). I have noticed some things with my Lexar memory stick that is quite disturbing (it is not fake). First, the latest version of NesterJ (a NES emulator) does not load with this third-party memory stick. DGEN (a Sega Genesis emulator) has the same result. Second, when using it with SonicStage, the application gives me a writing error, resulting in a full reboot of my PC. After testing this with multiple computers, it is safe to say that these errors can only be resolved with SanDisk and Sony cards. I would never trust my Lexar stick when writing to the flash in any way. (Some people say that the problem I'm having is with my stick alone. Although its been replaced two times by the manufacturer, it still gives me these errors. If you experience errors similar to this I recommend a brand name.)

4. Always read the readme. They are called "readme" files for a reason! Certain applications may require special steps to load, or even special files in order to run. Whether it's on QJ's front page, or with the archive itself, it should be read.

5. Don't test the untested. A few unfortunate people bricked their PSP's when the first revision of the 2.5/2.6 downdater came out. To avoid this, make sure some well-known members (or the developer him/her self) have confirmed it working.

6. Know what you are doing. Use common sense!!! If the program says only use gameboots < 1MB, then don't try using a 10MB gameboot! Make sure you know what programs or applications you are using on your PSP. Don't just download a program from a random web site. All of the downloads from QJ.net are approved and will not harm your PSP (if you are following the instructions correctly).

7. Follow all normal precautions. When writing to the flash, make sure the PSP has 50% charge (for extra safety, > 75% will ensure you won't loose power), is plugged in, and the memory stick or power is not interrupted.

8. Use a custom firmware. This was was saved for last for a reason! If you did follow this guide in any order, this one would be last. Before installing follow all of the tips listed before this. Most all custom firmwares right now have a "recovery mode" that could potentially recover a bricked PSP. Don't know which custom firmware to install? Click here for a great guide from QJ.net.

9. Watch out for [fake] downgraders. There's always a risk of bricking while attempting to downgrade because they write to the flash. There is no 100% guarantee that they will flash correctly. To be sure you have a successful downgrade follow all instructions and be sure to read that readme! Also make sure you download from QJ.net, cause some "fake" downgraders actually brick the PSP!

I hope this helps some people scared to flash the PSP. The PSP has many possibilities that can be unleashed but doing so could result in a brick. Don't let that happen to you!

Have suggestions to make this guide better? Post here.

Guide by: Cobra2168
Revision: 0.5 (fixed spelling and added some tips suggested by users)

**Powerman** · 07-21-2006, 05:54 PM

Quote:

5. Don't test the untested. A few unfortunate people bricked their PSP's when the first revision of the 2.5/2.6 downdater came out. To avoid this, make sure some well-known members have confirmed it working.

If no one tested the Downgrader, then it would not have develloped in the downgrader it is now.

**CoBrA2168** · 07-21-2006, 05:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Powerman

If no one tested the Downgrader, then it would not have develloped in the downgrader it is now.

Yes, but don't you think the developer should test it him/her self? I find it weird that some people would release a downgrader and not test it to even see if it works. Be careful about that.

**CoBrA2168** · 07-21-2006, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nar180

I have something to add
Downgraders
There's always a risk of bricking while attempting to downgrade because in the process of writing files to the flash0 is NOT and, never will be a guaranteed success.
That includes following ALL the directions. Just make sure to take all the precautions possible!That includes reading all the attached files and the developers tips.

Done. Rephrased it a bit to make it understandable for anyone.

**MexicanSnake** · 07-21-2006, 07:16 PM

nice....

**PSPduh** · 07-21-2006, 07:19 PM

You said to have battery charge at 50%, when for the SAFEST flashing, it should be 100%. When I dg'ed from 2.00 > 1.50, (I did it at least 6 times) I always have my battery charge at 100% AND the AC charger plugged in.

Just my opinion, and I thought it should be atleast 75%?

**teeth_03** · 07-21-2006, 08:38 PM

number 3,the one about the mem sticks

have you considered that it maybe was your mem stick specifically and not ALL Lexar?

its what I have,and had no problems,and I've been able to save in Dgen

good guide,just that little part bugs me

**Bleet** · 07-21-2006, 09:12 PM

Pretty good guide. Should help out newbs.

**monaco** · 07-21-2006, 09:49 PM

this should be stickied

**bushd** · 07-22-2006, 12:33 AM

I'm on 1.5 with XFLASH and DAX Custom and I've noticed that the PSP tries to reread the memory card every time the power charge is plugged in, or comes on. Comes on meaning that it is at full charge, so it stops charging, and drops to where it can be charged and then starts charging again. That is something that if others are experiencing is when the power cable doesn't need to be plugged in and I make sure that it isn't if I'm fully charged.

I wouldn't say you need to format the memory stick, since most quick formats just simply erase the tables and not do anything to the data. I don't know how flash memory works even though I assume on the same principles as regular hard drives.

**Moose** · 07-22-2006, 12:40 AM

cool guide, this will help some n00bs!

**Keegster** · 07-22-2006, 02:54 AM

Nice Guide For Noobies

**CoBrA2168** · 07-22-2006, 09:44 AM

Thanks guys. I'm going to edit it now to add some of the things you guys mentioned.

EDIT: the lexar thing bugs me too since its been replaced 2 times by the manufacturer. I mean, other than those 3 problems i have it works great. But still, the EXACT same files on the sandisk will load, the same Dgen config, eboot, roms, etc...its weird.

**PSPduh** · 07-22-2006, 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by monaco

this should be stickied

I second that.

**delight1** · 07-22-2006, 10:59 AM

Quote:

3. Use brand-name Memory Stick (Sandisk or Sony). I have noticed some things with my Lexar memory stick that is quite disturbing (it is not fake).

that is a name brand...

**CoBrA2168** · 07-22-2006, 11:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by delight1

that is a name brand...

Okay, but still i have replaced it twice, and i still get it.

The exact same files on are both my sandisk and my lexar.

Copied and paste....exactly the same...

It will load on a sandisk but not a lexar....tried it with 3 different psp's too.

**delight1** · 07-22-2006, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CoBrA2168

Okay, but still i have replaced it twice, and i still get it.

The exact same files on are both my sandisk and my lexar.

Copied and paste....exactly the same...

It will load on a sandisk but not a lexar....tried it with 3 different psp's too.

i just think you should reword that :P

**CoBrA2168** · 07-23-2006, 08:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by delight1

i just think you should reword that :P

I can't think of how to do it. Could you give me a suggestion for re-wording it?

**liquidtenmillion** · 07-23-2006, 10:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CoBrA2168

Yes, but don't you think the developer should test it him/her self? I find it weird that some people would release a downgrader and not test it to even see if it works. Be careful about that.

Unless the developer has 10 PSPs, testing would never get accomplished on a wide enough scale, and we wouldn't have things like the downgrader for 2.5/2.6.

Unfortunately, people have to test experimental things like that.

07-21-2006, 05:44 PM	#1
CoBrA2168 Enter Custom Title Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: United States Posts: 1,992 Trader Feedback: 0	[GUIDE] Precautions/Tips when flashing the PSP This guide will provide extra-cautious precautions and tips for when you are either flashing the PSP or using applications that edit the "flash0" (i.e. internal, important files). None of these tips are required for a successful flash, but following all of these steps guarantee you won't end up with a paperweight. Remember, before flashing your PSP I recommend you read all of these tips. I've compiled a list of tips for when flashing. If you have any to add, please post in this topic. (Note: They are in no particular order) 1. Format your Memory Stick. Formatting the memory stick before updating/flashing will ensure that nothing goes wrong with the files being read on the memory stick. Although upgrading without a formatted memory stick will most likely work, if you want to be extra-safe do this. 2. Use a larger-size Memory Stick (more than 32MB). As we have seen with some newer applications (e.g. Dark Alex's Downdater Test 0.5), they require more memory than 32MB because they might write files to the stick (logs, etc.). Unless you know for sure the flasher works with lower-size memory sticks, then I recommend a larger stick. 3. Use brand-name Memory Stick (Sandisk or Sony). I have noticed some things with my Lexar memory stick that is quite disturbing (it is not fake). First, the latest version of NesterJ (a NES emulator) does not load with this third-party memory stick. DGEN (a Sega Genesis emulator) has the same result. Second, when using it with SonicStage, the application gives me a writing error, resulting in a full reboot of my PC. After testing this with multiple computers, it is safe to say that these errors can only be resolved with SanDisk and Sony cards. I would never trust my Lexar stick when writing to the flash in any way. (Some people say that the problem I'm having is with my stick alone. Although its been replaced two times by the manufacturer, it still gives me these errors. If you experience errors similar to this I recommend a brand name.) 4. Always read the readme. They are called "readme" files for a reason! Certain applications may require special steps to load, or even special files in order to run. Whether it's on QJ's front page, or with the archive itself, it should be read. 5. Don't test the untested. A few unfortunate people bricked their PSP's when the first revision of the 2.5/2.6 downdater came out. To avoid this, make sure some well-known members (or the developer him/her self) have confirmed it working. 6. Know what you are doing. Use common sense!!! If the program says only use gameboots < 1MB, then don't try using a 10MB gameboot! Make sure you know what programs or applications you are using on your PSP. Don't just download a program from a random web site. All of the downloads from QJ.net are approved and will not harm your PSP (if you are following the instructions correctly). 7. Follow all normal precautions. When writing to the flash, make sure the PSP has 50% charge (for extra safety, > 75% will ensure you won't loose power), is plugged in, and the memory stick or power is not interrupted. 8. Use a custom firmware. This was was saved for last for a reason! If you did follow this guide in any order, this one would be last. Before installing follow all of the tips listed before this. Most all custom firmwares right now have a "recovery mode" that could potentially recover a bricked PSP. Don't know which custom firmware to install? Click here for a great guide from QJ.net. 9. Watch out for [fake] downgraders. There's always a risk of bricking while attempting to downgrade because they write to the flash. There is no 100% guarantee that they will flash correctly. To be sure you have a successful downgrade follow all instructions and be sure to read that readme! Also make sure you download from QJ.net, cause some "fake" downgraders actually brick the PSP! I hope this helps some people scared to flash the PSP. The PSP has many possibilities that can be unleashed but doing so could result in a brick. Don't let that happen to you! Have suggestions to make this guide better? Post here. Guide by: Cobra2168 Revision: 0.5 (fixed spelling and added some tips suggested by users) Last edited by CoBrA2168; 07-22-2006 at 09:49 AM..

07-21-2006, 07:16 PM	#5
MexicanSnake Developer Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Guadalajara Posts: 958 Trader Feedback: 0	nice.... __________________ Current projects: pspshootoutsv0.4 PSPIRATESv6 :D Kindom Hearths: Sora´s Adventure V0.2 PSPirates Alarm Clock v0.3 Changos!: fall of the army-ITS ALIVE AND WORKING (coming soon) PSPMEX DevTeam.

07-21-2006, 09:12 PM	#8
Bleet Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Chair Posts: 745 Trader Feedback: 0	Pretty good guide. Should help out newbs. __________________ [IMG]http://img216.imageshack.us/img216/8377/dgsrdfesfdawfwuu1.png[/IMG]

07-22-2006, 12:33 AM	#10
bushd Zeldanation! Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Texas Posts: 63 Trader Feedback: 0	I'm on 1.5 with XFLASH and DAX Custom and I've noticed that the PSP tries to reread the memory card every time the power charge is plugged in, or comes on. Comes on meaning that it is at full charge, so it stops charging, and drops to where it can be charged and then starts charging again. That is something that if others are experiencing is when the power cable doesn't need to be plugged in and I make sure that it isn't if I'm fully charged. I wouldn't say you need to format the memory stick, since most quick formats just simply erase the tables and not do anything to the data. I don't know how flash memory works even though I assume on the same principles as regular hard drives. __________________ [CENTER][COLOR=lightblue][B][COLOR=black][IMG]http://davidbushdiecker.googlepages.com/Syntax.jpg[/IMG] [/COLOR][/B][/COLOR][/CENTER] [CENTER][B]Your new code name is Kerotan.[/B][/CENTER] [CENTER][B][COLOR=royalblue]Wiiness: 4791 5996 4610 9424[/COLOR][/B][B][COLOR=royalblue] [/COLOR][/B][/CENTER] [CENTER][spoiler=DSLite Friend Codes][B]PM me if you add me and include which game przkthx.[/B] [B][SIZE=1][COLOR=#4169e1] FFIII DS: 279277284549 [SIZE=2][COLOR=Black]#[/COLOR][/SIZE] [/COLOR][/SIZE][/B][B][SIZE=1][COLOR=#4169e1]Pokemans Diamond: 219147839434[/COLOR][/SIZE][/B] [B][SIZE=1][COLOR=#4169e1]Club House Games: 086003940867 [/COLOR][/SIZE][/B][B][SIZE=1][COLOR=#4169e1][SIZE=2][COLOR=Black]#[/COLOR][/SIZE][/COLOR][/SIZE][/B][B][SIZE=1][COLOR=#4169e1]MarioKart: Missing In Action [SIZE=2][COLOR=Black]Harr harr![/COLOR][/SIZE][/COLOR][/SIZE][/B][/spoiler][/CENTER] Last edited by bushd; 07-22-2006 at 12:37 AM..

07-22-2006, 02:54 AM	#12
Keegster Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: NM l Version: 3.03 OE-C Posts: 536 Trader Feedback: 0	Nice Guide For Noobies __________________ [CENTER][url=http://www.socombrosinc.com][IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y134/Keegstar/keegsig.png[/IMG][/url] [B][COLOR=DarkOrange]Thanks To [/COLOR][url=http://forums.qj.net/member.php?u=39399]deturbanator[/url] [COLOR=DarkOrange]For The Fantastic Sig[/COLOR][/B][/CENTER]

07-21-2006, 07:19 PM	#6
PSPduh PwnerOfMe Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: LOLWUT Posts: 2,625 Trader Feedback: 1	You said to have battery charge at 50%, when for the SAFEST flashing, it should be 100%. When I dg'ed from 2.00 > 1.50, (I did it at least 6 times) I always have my battery charge at 100% AND the AC charger plugged in. Just my opinion, and I thought it should be atleast 75%?

07-21-2006, 08:38 PM	#7
teeth_03 300k Hot Club Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Big Blue Ball of Bor Posts: 1,335 Trader Feedback: 0	number 3,the one about the mem sticks have you considered that it maybe was your mem stick specifically and not ALL Lexar? its what I have,and had no problems,and I've been able to save in Dgen good guide,just that little part bugs me

07-21-2006, 09:49 PM	#9
monaco Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: nor cal hyphy area Posts: 329 Trader Feedback: 0	this should be stickied

07-22-2006, 12:40 AM	#11
Moose Enter Custom Title Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: National Front Disco Posts: 13,063 Trader Feedback: 0	cool guide, this will help some n00bs!

07-22-2006, 09:44 AM	#13
CoBrA2168 Enter Custom Title Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: United States Posts: 1,992 Trader Feedback: 0	Thanks guys. I'm going to edit it now to add some of the things you guys mentioned. EDIT: the lexar thing bugs me too since its been replaced 2 times by the manufacturer. I mean, other than those 3 problems i have it works great. But still, the EXACT same files on the sandisk will load, the same Dgen config, eboot, roms, etc...its weird. Last edited by CoBrA2168; 07-22-2006 at 10:51 AM..

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[GUIDE] Precautions/Tips when flashing the PSP