RE: [GD-Consoles] Linux for PS2 kit

[xark <xa...@li...>]

On Thu, 7 Mar 2002, Dirk Ringe wrote:

> The development on ps2/linux is totally different from development on the
> raw ps2 machine. To protect its IP ps2/linux runs in a virtual machine, ie.
> an abstraction layer to the hardware... I do not expect that anything done
> on ps2/linux is of use on the ps2 itself.
> 
> Dirk

I don't think this is totally accurate.  Obviously you aren't going to
make booting PS2 game discs with PS2 Linux, but I don't think it runs on a
"virtual machine".  The only thing locked-up AFAIK is the I/O Processor
(IOP).  The IOP runs a closed "driver" that Linux talks to for I/O and
sound.  On the EE side, you supposedly have _full_ access to the PS2 EE
CPU (including VU0, VU1) and the graphical hardware (VIF, GIF, GS etc.).  

There is a public site Sony has set up for discussion and information 
about PS2 Linux, check it out:

http://playstation2-linux.com/

and the especially the FAQ at

http://playstation2-linux.com/faq.php

Even if a PS2 doesn't make the "ultimate" Linux workstation, it at least
sounds like a fun (and legal) way to get some PS2 development experience.

-Xark