PSPi 6 Project Transforms PSP 1000 into Modern Handheld with Raspberry Pi

Project Overview

The PSPi 6 is a passion project that converts a classic PSP 1000 into a modern handheld device. It involves replacing the original PSP 1000 mainboard with a custom circuit board designed to integrate a Raspberry Pi.

The project provides all necessary hardware designs, firmware, and software, allowing users to build and utilize the modified handheld. This transformation enables the device to function as a portable computer capable of running various operating systems and emulators.

Key Features and Capabilities

The PSPi 6 allows the modified PSP to play retro games and emulators, run full Linux distributions, and execute most software compatible with a Raspberry Pi. It incorporates an 800x480 LCD with adjustable brightness, efficient power management with real-time battery monitoring, and power-saving modes.

Audio output is available through the PSP speakers or headphones, with volume and mute controlled by the original PSP buttons. All original PSP buttons and the joystick are utilized, and the board supports two extra buttons and an additional joystick. LED indicators and an on-screen display provide system status.

Compatibility and Open Design

The PSPi 6 works exclusively with the PSP 1000 series. It fits Raspberry Pi Zero, Zero 2W, and CM4 (with a CM4 Carrier board), and is electrically compatible with all 40-pin Raspberry Pis, though only the Zero/Zero 2 fit into the shell. Supported operating systems include RetroPie, Lakka, Ubuntu, Raspberry Pi OS, Batocera, and Kali.

The project features an open-source hardware design under a Creative Commons license, allowing for customization. Users can either purchase a ready-made board from othermod.com or manufacture their own using the provided PCB design files and source components independently.