The SCPH-90006 represents the absolute final evolution of the PlayStation 2 hardware, specifically the region-locked model for Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. For collectors and modders, this "new" slim model is notorious for its internal redesign and a revised BIOS that fundamentally changed the landscape of PS2 homebrew. The BIOS Revision (The "8C" Threshold) The most critical aspect of the SCPH-90006
is the BIOS version it carries. Early 9000x models (often marked with date code 7D or 8A/8B) still utilized BIOS versions like v2.20, which were compatible with traditional softmodding.
However, units manufactured after the third quarter of 2008 (indicated by date code 8C or later) feature the v2.30 BIOS. This update was Sony’s final security patch, specifically designed to:
Block Free McBoot (FMCB): The revised BIOS removed the "OSD Update" exploit that allowed the console to boot custom software directly from a memory card.
Patch Security Flaws: It addressed the specific memory card exploits used for years by the homebrew community, making standard softmodding nearly impossible on these "newer" units. Key Hardware Changes
Unlike previous Slim models (7000x to 7700x), the 9000x series—including the 90006—integrated the power supply directly into the console. This eliminated the bulky external "power brick," making it the sleekest PS2 ever made. Integrated Power: A built-in internal power supply.
Improved Cooling: A redesigned internal fan and heat sink to accommodate the internal power heat.
Weight Reduction: At roughly 720 grams, it is significantly lighter than the original Slim. Modding the "Unmoddable" SCPH-90006 scph90006+bios+new
Because the v2.30 BIOS blocks traditional FMCB, users with a 90006 model must turn to alternative methods for running backups or homebrew:
OpenTuna / FunTuna: These are modern softmod alternatives specifically designed for later Slim models. They leverage a different exploit involving the "Icons" in the browser menu to launch homebrew even on patched BIOS versions.
Modchips: Physical chips like the Modbo 5.0 (often Chinese clones) can be soldered onto the motherboard to bypass region locks and BIOS security entirely.
FreeDVDBoot: This newer exploit allows you to boot homebrew by simply burning a specially crafted ISO to a DVD-R. It exploits the console's DVD Player software rather than the BIOS boot sequence.
MechaPwn: This is a powerful softmod that can turn a 90006 into a "region-free" machine by reconfiguring the mecha-con (mechanism controller) firmware. Legal and Emulation Use
If you are looking for the SCPH-90006 BIOS file for use in emulators like PCSX2, remember that distributing these files is legally restricted as they are copyrighted Sony property. The safest and most ethical way to obtain it is to dump it directly from your own hardware using tools like BIOS Drain.
If you are an emulation enthusiast, you might ask: "I already have a BIOS from a SCPH-39001 (Fat). Why do I need the SCPH-90006 New version?" The SCPH-90006 represents the absolute final evolution of
Here is the developer perspective from the PCSX2 team:
Don't fear the "new" BIOS on your SCPH-90006. It isn't a wall; it's just a different lock.
Your 90006 is a marvel of late-90s/early-2000s engineering. Treat its BIOS like a historical artifact—back it up, respect it, and then mod it anyway.
Got a "new" BIOS dump from your 90006? Share your hash in the comments below to help build the preservation database!
The SCPH-90006 represents the final evolution of the PlayStation 2 hardware, specifically the "late-model" Slimline released in Hong Kong and other Asian regions. While its sleek design with an integrated power supply makes it a peak for hardware reliability, it is most famous in the homebrew community for its "new" patched BIOS (v2.30), which disabled the primary exploit used for loading unofficial software. 1. Hardware Refinement: The Internal PSU
The SCPH-90006 was part of the "V17" or "V18" revisions, notable for being the first Slim models to reintegrate the power supply into the console's chassis.
Portability: By removing the bulky external power brick found in earlier Slims (like the SCPH-700xx series), Sony achieved a total weight of only 720 grams. Part 3: Emulation Implications – Why PCSX2 Users
Thermal Management: These models were redesigned for better cooling, running significantly cooler than their predecessors, which were prone to overheating and laser failure. 2. The "New" BIOS (v2.30) and Homebrew
The most critical aspect of the SCPH-9000x series is its BIOS. Starting with date codes 8C and 8D (late 2008), Sony updated the system's initialization code.
The Patched Exploit: This new BIOS revision patched the initialization of the Memory Card update file, effectively disabling FreeMcBoot (FMCB)—the most popular softmod for the PS2.
Identification: Users can check their compatibility by looking at the Date Code on the bottom of the unit. Consoles with an "8B" or earlier code typically use the older v2.20 BIOS and are compatible with FMCB, while "8D" and higher almost certainly have the new, patched BIOS. 3. Alternative Modding Solutions
Because the SCPH-90006 BIOS blocked standard softmods, the community developed "new" methods to regain control of the hardware:
Unlike the original gray "PU" boards, the 90006 uses a ROM-less architecture. The BIOS isn't on a removable chip; it’s embedded in the custom GPU or a multi-chip module (MCP). This means: