PS3 Delliding Tools, A Hands On Comparison Tim Dark 2026-09-22 | PS3 Delliding Tools, A Hands On Comparison
Polishing a PlayStation 3 case! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2025-08-29 | Here are the polishing techniques I use to bring this iconic PlayStation 3 case back to its former glory!
NoPS2 Urgent update..... Could this be the definitive fix for this issue?? Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2025-03-25 | Hello, everyone.The NoPS2 issue is a problem that is increasing. It takes away the backwards compatibility of your beloved console and makes it as useful as a super slim!.For the past two years, I have been looking at what could cause the problem. Both Computer Booter and Ace Consoles have tried multiple attempts to resolve the issue with no success.I believe it's down to motherboard warping and microscopic corrosion that breaks the PS2 playback, I also believe that failing tokins could contribute to the issue.So, for this reason, I try to straighten the motherboard with heat and a bracket. I have the tokins removed and replaced with tantalum capacitors on Ace PCB boards. Finally, I also have the motherboard ultrasonicly cleaned to remove any microscopic corrosion.Enjoy the video. Could this be the fix we have all been waiting for? Better watch to find out!!
Console-Tek Frankenstein review Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2025-01-23 | Hello everyone,Today, I'm reviewing Console-Teks Frankenstein mod. As you may know, I'm currently learning the mod myself, which puts me in a good position to review this modification. However, due to work commitments and personal circumstances, I have been unable to dedicate the time required to master this mod completely. The sad passing of my mum meant I was unable to be in the right head space to finish mastering a difficult mod. I have to date completed 2 Frankensteins, but I didn't do the re-ballimg. My video showing how to do this mod will come out once i have mastered this process. My main objective to learning this mod was to increase the quality of what was currently available. Shaun at Console-Tek has done just that, and his work is absolutely outstanding.Enjoy the video and leave respectful comments.
playstaion 3 GLOD temporary solution so you can back up your game saves, etc! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-11-03 | ...
Does your PS3 shutdown? NEC tokin fix, the safe way!! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-10-19 | Hello everyone, and welcome to a tutorial that has been a long time coming! This is because I was conflicted between adding capacitors to the existing tokins or if I should remove them and replace them with tantalisers.Having risk assessed both processes and tested both versions of the fix, I have come to the conclusion that adding capacitors to the existing tokins is the way forward. This is a beginners guide, and I do go into detail about what's required and why in this video.There is no need to remove those NEC tokins, so put that knife away! So many people, including myself, have damaged the console using this method!!Please be aware that this is not for entertainment purposes. This is for the average person who has the ambition to fix their console. This is not a video of me showcasing my skills so you can marvel at my greatness!!, no, this is a in depth tutorial that will help you to diagnose and fix your console.Below is a link to a discussion between two very respected members of the PS3 community. This ends with Felix saying its good enough to attach capacitors to the tokin. Having tested this exhaustively, I can confirm it is.psx-place.com/threads/research-experimental-nec-tokin-capacitors-replacement-ylod.25260/page-250#post-335800Tantalum capacitors review youtu.be/b-5v6Rje9OU?si=8x7qzY-dThy6GiIKLink to capacitors lcsc.com/mobile/product-detail/Tantalum-Capacitors_PANASONIC-2R5TPE470M7_C147773.htmlTools/materials required:MPN: 2R5TPE470M7 470UF. 2.5V. 7 microfarads tantalum capacitors. 4 requiredMultimeter Leaded soldering wire Toothbrush Cotton budsIsopropyl Alcohol Flux Some cardboard cut to sizeA hot air station and soldering ironScrewdrivers (Philips) to open console.A small electric grinder tool or a tiny jewelers flat head Screwdriver to remove conformal coating.Heat tape.Small magnifying glass with built in light.A desktop light with led lighting.A cup of tea and plenty of patience Self belief and a positive attitude.
Satin Silver A revision fully backwards compatible 7/20/2024 Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-10-07 | ...
PS2 BlackScreen on a PS3 Backwards Compatible console resolved!! (No PS2 when booting cold) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-09-03 | Hello!!Today, I was exploring what can cause the PS2 black screen of death. Although it's still inconclusive, it is highly likely that this particular version of the NoPs2 issue is caused by the RSX and NEC tokins. (Boots PS2 games when running hot, black screens when launching from cold boot. You can still access the menu to quit by pressing the home button)I baked the motherboard for 3 hours at 120 degrees. The heat applied constantly over a long period of time can resolve flip chip and failing capacitors. I also piggybacked on two tantalum capacitors, one on the RSX side and one on the CPU. Although this didn't have an immediate effect, I believe this has helped to resolve the issue.The question is, when the failing component dies completely, will it be possible to resolve? If it's the RSX, then the only fix would be a replacement GPU, if its just tokins, they can be replaced with tantalum caps. But back to my original theory, I think it's both, so if you get a black screen on PS2 games no matter how hot your console gets, then I belive all the NEC tokins will need replacing as well as the RSX, if that doesn't work, it's something else.This is the most popular version of this issue that is well documented online. If your console black screens run your consoke to 75 degrees and try to run your PS2 game. If this doesn't work, then then it's likely your RSX and tokins have failed and need replacing. Please note, this is costly, only do this if your console has value, ie rare for example or has sentimental value to you. If not, just buy a new one!UPDATE: It's also possible that the motherboard has warped and this has kinked the traces that communicate between the chips nessasery to boot PS2 games. As the console warms up, the motherboard contracts and this is enough to un-kink the traces allowing Ps2 games to boot. Although this is all theory is plausible as the RSX, EE chip, GS chip have all been replaced without fixing the issue.
Sony Frankenstein NEC tokin replacement Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-08-26 | Console won't boot due to a NEC tokin failure. In this video, I replace the tokins with tantalisersl PCB boards and Panasonic low ESR tantalum capacitors. As always, work smart and safe, that is why the area I'm working in is protected with foil tape. If you slip, it can save you a trace repair Console will be available for sale on eBay, so keep an eye out for tge link, I will be posting this soon
Playstation 3 NEC TOKINS fix Tantalisers! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-08-24 | I did have a video but the sound messed up when loading it to YouTube, so here is the revised edit!
Harvesting a 40nm RSX (frankenstian journey Part 3) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-08-01 | in this video, I harvest a 40nm from a slim motherboard. This is the first time I have lifted a 40nm and it worked out well.This is all part of my frankenstian journey and I have to say I am pleased with the progress. Before coming into this I had no BGA rework experience, so thanks to everyone that's left comments and given great advice along the way, I really couldn't do this without all the help.and support of my followers.I have noticed a lot of people leaving comments are non subscribers, if that's you please hit the subscribe button, it will eventually really help me out, ad I'm sure my content will help you.Enjoy the video!!!
Lets Frankenstein, the Frankensteined Frankenstein!!!!!! (Part one) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-07-29 | This console was sent to a well-known PS3 seller and modder in the UK. The customer then sent it to me, I obtained the Syscon error codes and there was no RSX error codes. The error was a 3004 indicating NEC tokin failure.In a nutshell this console never needed a frankenstian and simply needed the NEC tokins replacing. with the cost of a Frankenstein being around 300 pounds, it seems somewhat unfair to opt for the most expensive option which simply wasn't nessasery.I will be offering this service myself, if I find that the RSX isn't responsible I won't perform the mod unless the customer insists on it. That's why all my frankenstians will be recorded and the footage will be given to the customer. I feel integrity in this business is key, I have always been open and transparent with my customers and will always continue to be.Enjoy the video, and remember, if your getting a frankenstian ask to see the syscon log before the modification goes ahead. Check Wiki to translate the codes and if it's not an RSX failure, then ask to get the actual issue resolved, otherwise your console could end up like this one!Remember , these consoles are rare things and PS3's most likely will need a de-lid and/or a frankenstian
Frankenstein part 2 (removing the RSX) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-07-28 | Hello, everyone.In this recording, I show what I have learned with regards to lifting the RSX. it's an important part of the process as there is a real risk of delamination and popcorning the motherboard. I have disconnected that baking the motherboard most definitely helps, especially the ram on the RSX is prone to popping if. ot baked. any comments are most welcome Enjoy the video 👍
Frankenstian update (reballing) Part 1 Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-07-23 | Hello everyone,Having found a working profile to remove the RSX (this will be shown in my next video), it was time to learn how to reball the chip.it wasn't easy, and this was my 10th attempt! Now I have the correct height setting for the stencil, it will be much easier in the future.Enjoy the video
My frankenstian journey has begun! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-05-29 | Hello everyone Welcome to the introduction of my frankenstian journey. I will be posting my progress over the coming weeks, so keep an eye out for my frankie videos!!If you have technical knowledge that could help me, then please leave this information in the comments. And if you don't and you are simply following my journey, then words of support will motivate me to keep going and to never give up!wish me luck 😀
Satin Silver CECHA00 E3 Replica Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-05-04 | Find this beautiful satin silver E3 replica on Ebay.... link belowebay.co.uk/itm/266796313626?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=Dkdl9BxLThm&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=Dkdl9BxLThm&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
How to change the DVD region (quick method) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-04-26 | Edited by YouCut:youcut.net/BestEditor
Get better PS2 compatibility from your backwards compatible PS3! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2024-02-22 | The backwards compatible PS3 is a fantastic console that has PS2 backwards compatibility. Unfortunately, about 8 percent of the PS2 library doesn't run correctly on a C and E revison PS3. in this recording, we discuss ways to run PS2 games that are unplayable on these consoles or have annoying glitches. Custom firmware is required as well as some applications that are discussed in the tutorial.using this simple method can be a life saver if your beloved PS2 game doesn't work correctly running on the stock emulation. Enjoy the video, and don't forget to leave a comment!linksReview of A versus E revison youtu.be/eM8wHtk0eDE?si=7WHWUUsoQOOKxxB4My Ps2 configuration file and PS2 on super slim tutorial youtu.be/Z7AcwofbwT0?si=jxaFiWhjIv3CRQDIyoutu.be/IVrLmLxt2Fg?si=F5LSGm08A_M9rtSbMr Mario's PS2 HEN videoyoutu.be/T5MeNI7OAu4?si=yuUJx-yPK_Vh1KlbMystics Backwards compatible testingyoutu.be/kf-oYO5jo94?si=IFwemNO5mtk0HX5BBrewoligy.com, select Homebrew and then select Multiman. No w expand Multiman and everything required will be therestore.brewology.com
Playstation 3 DE-LIDDING FOR BEGINNERS (phat or fat PS3) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-09-18 | With so many de-lidding recordings on YouTube, I thought it was time to do a video for someone who was serious about de-lidding their console. Other videos are made purely for entertainment purposes, and when you try to replicate the process, it fails as the video missed out important information on the process. This is because essentially you are watching someone who is basically showing you what works for them, and what works for them, may not work for you.So, I have come up with a tutorial that is informative and addresses a lot of the myths surrounding the de-lidding process. I have also evolved my technique so someone else could copy what I have done and do a successful de-lid themselves. This is aimed at a beginner or novice that wants to limit the risk and have a maximum chance of success. please keep comments respectfull, tools required.....A hard, flat surface to work on.Painters knife setA rework station (get a cheap one for 20-30 pounds)Sealant Remover flux in a syringe fine sand paper Masking tapeIsopropyl alcohol Cotton budsA stop watch Air dusterThermal paste (I use liquid metal)Old tooth brushplenty of patience
40nm on a COK-001 Motherboard done by Sony! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-08-06 | I was in the process of opening up a rare CECHA00 PS3 console when I noticed some unusual markings on the motherboard. The first sticker on the underside of the board simply read 2010-10. I knew immediately that Sony must have referbished this console at some point, probably back in 2010. I then noticed another sticker that simply said "40". some marker pen was present on the Sys on chip and on the bottom of the board was written 1022-102 which could possibly be an error code??My hopes where confirmed when I looked at the serial number on the RSX IHS which indeed confirmed that this was a Frankenstian performed by Sony with a 40nm RSX!!!
How to install your PS1,2 and 3 games to your HD on 4.90( For Dummies) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-07-21 | ...
Alternative referbishment method (re-fixing the IHS back to the motherboard) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-07-13 | Hello PS3 enthusiasts!!Yes, I know this is going to be extremely controversial!! Many people will be saying,'Why do this??!!" The answer is not easy to explain however many highly respected figures in the PS3 Community have said that the 'rigidity" of the MB is extremely important to the life of the console. When you remove the IHS plates the tension on the MB changes which could lead to failure of many of the components including the RSX and CPU.This means that the entire process could be counterproductive which is why I have now decided to put the IHS plates back on!Get involved and leave your comments in the description!
PS3 BINNED chip on 383 day old console!!! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-05-23 | Hello everyone, in this video, I referbish a 383 day old console. That's a massive amount of runtime for such an old console. I take some extra precautions to ensure a successful de-lid and do a full test highting the benefits of my referbishment service.please note that the video is created in the interests of education, if anyone has any tips to add please voice these in the comments section.watch till the end as the results are unbelievable!! This highlights the benefits of a binned chip on a PS3!!enjoy the video 😊
First showing of replica prototype silver backwards compatible PS3 Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-05-06 | ...
New de-lidding technique (Part two, testing the console) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-04-04 | ...
New de-lidding technique (Part one) Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-04-04 | I have de-lidded over one hundred PlayStation 3 consoles, and for the first time, I scratched the CPU, rendering the console useless. The scratch happened on point of entry, so I now use sealant remover to softern this area.I tested the technique on junk boards, and this was me doing a delid on a working board using my new technique for the first time. it was a complete success so sit back and enjoy the recording.
Tony359 sent me two PS3 consoles! syscon fun and tantalum capacitors ! liquid metal, white case! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2023-03-05 | @tony359 is a tinkerer of electrical equipment. I first started chatting with Tony on PSX place. He was seeking some advice on de-lidding. His channel was small (like mine) and was keen to try to fix a PS3 that he had. Since then, Tony's channel has grown to over ten thousand subscribers because he has a wealth of knowledge and presents his recordings in a clear and understandable way. Tony has asked me to do the finishing touches to some PS3 consoles he has recently looked at. I am also a tinkerer and love working on computers and games consoles. I decided to turn a side hustle into a business and started on a PS3 project. The PS3 gaming community is so vast that the interest for my refurbishments and customisations of these consoles was sky high. in fact, I haven't been able to move on to other projects as I have such a high demand for the work I do and the products that I sell. I originally set up my channel to help the customers I sell to. I have now decided to widen my audience so everyone can enjoy and learn from the content I put on YouTube. This is why I am now starting to edit my recordings so they are more enjoyable to watch.In this recording, I do discover the console requires more attention, and after hours of diagnostics, I got to the bottom of what was causing the issue. Please note that when i start to assemble the console, there is no dust, what yiu can see is over spray from the white paint job! This was Tony's first successful de-lidding of both CPU and RSX, so I give it the 5 star treatment. I give some valuable additional information, so enjoy the recording and leave your comments in the description. Thanks for sending me the consolesTony, It was a pleasure to work on them 🙂link to @tony359 original recording below.youtu.be/9giDp6L6mRAfelix PS3 recording link belowyoutu.be/I0UMG3iVYZIBlu-ray drive re-marry youtu.be/02iKsqK98Z8Add config files for better compatibilityyoutu.be/Z7AcwofbwT0How to install PS2 gamesyoutu.be/k4l6dFm6bAw
Installation of CFW on a PS3 with 4.89 OFW. Your console isnt bricked!! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-11-17 | Have you tried using a mirror site to flash your console with CFW? You may have flashed 4.88 nofsm onto a 4.89 OFW system. The good news it's recoverable so please watch the recording for further information.forever.me/bgtoolset
DONT OPEN YOUR PS3 BACKWARDS COMPATIBLE UNTIL YOU HAVE SEEN THIS Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-11-03 | Having opened a lot of PlayStation 3 consoles, I have discovered that you can cause a BGA defect just by opening your console. Every console I have opened, I have recorded and watched it back. Having done this I have found that if the console is hard to open due to the thermal paste acting like glue between the heat spreaders and the heat sinks, you can pull on the CPU and GPU chips causing a broken solder joint on the ball grid array. This can result in an instant YLOD or a GLOD. Sometimes, the console will boot but run badly and over a short period of time and begin to show system errors. This can be prevented by heating up the CPU and GPU, the thermal paste loosens, making the console easier to open and reducing the risk of a system error.I have had people ask if they can heat the chips with hot air, either by using a hair dryer or using a rework station. Basically, don't do this. You would have to heat the heat spreaders by taking out the fan. You won't be heating the chips evenly, and you won't know how hot the chips are getting. This can have a detrimental effect on the console and defeating the object of what we are trying to achieve. By following the tutorial, you are heating the chips evenly as its heating them from the middle of the chip. also, you know the console is reaching safe temps, or if you're running custom firmware, you know exactly how hot they are getting. Enjoy the video
Full referbished part 1 Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-09-03 | This is a full referbishment I typically do on a PlayStation 3 backwards compatible console. This referbishment took over 5 hours, I continue the referbishment in parr two.work done to console over the two parts is as follows.Diagnosis via webman and syscon dump.1001, 1004, 2023 errors. These errors typically refer to a improper shut down and a south bridge error. South Bridge error is normally due to the thermal pad no longer transferring heat (2023) The other two errors could, on rare occasions be a cpu tokin error, this is diagnosed further in part two CPU temp running high, RSX is okay however new paste will improve the performance.Dust and air dust all components.clean all components with isopropyl alcohol.New thermal pads throughout and thermal pads added to the NEC tokins.De-lid of RSX and CPU, resistors protected with clear coat to prevent any shorts. Thermal tape added to prevent any liquid metal spilling out.Artic silver 5 added to the heat spreaders and fixed to the heatsink. Liquid metal added to both die and the underside of both heat spreaders.After further testing 2 tantalum capacitors are piggybacked on, one on the RSX tokin and one on the CPU tokin. Tests prove the 1001 error was caused by the failing CPU tokins, this is fixed by adding a 470uf 6.3v tantalum capacitor to the failing tokin.TLOU would fail after 10 minutes, on camera after the caps where added it went on for over 20 minutes, further testing highlights it could run over 3 hours with no errorsReferbishment complete, temps have improved by over 15 degrees and no more shutdowns after playing high performance games.
PS3 Xploit work-around! DNS trick Custom Cloudflare, No longer working see description. Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-08-12 | As you may be aware, PS3Xploit.net is currently off line. This is a workaround so you can install CFW on a CFW compatible PS3.I take no credit for this, this is down to the main man that created the toolset, the work around can be found at PSX place.This isn't about using an alternative site, this is a way to actually access the toolset that's required to install CFWEnjoy the recording and let me know how you get on!The above no longer works, I'm sure it won't be long before ps3 xploit have a new webpage that hosts the bgtoolset. The only way to install a custom dash is now via a mirror site. I have tested one in particular and it has worked every time. Saying that bguerville has expressed there is a risk of bricking your system using a mirror site. So USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. Only works if your console is on 4.88, so if your on a dash below this the update to 4.88. If your on 4.89 you will need to wait for the offical release of the bgtoolsetfurever.me/bgtoolsetclick on "Flash Memory Manager "at the bottom click on "Flash Memory Patchnow select "Load Patch vi's HTTPS" (a bar will come up showing you the status of the download and validation) Once downloaded and verified click close.Please note, You can't dump your nand on this mirror siteClick on "Flash Memory Patch" again, now select "Apply Loaded Patch"select yes to Patch your consolereboot console and load 4.89 custom firmware from a fat32 formatted USB stick with the firmware prepared on it.
Accessing PSN on 4.88 CFW. INVALID PASSWORD FIX!!! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-05-16 | So this is a topic that results in failure for many people. This is because after following all the steps you can't sign in because every time you try it says invalid password.So by following the steps in the video below results in many people unable to sign in due to the PSN server not accepting there password.youtu.be/Dt0ZahHCHk0So its important to point out that you must have the latest version of webman and multiman installed to get to the point where you can attempt to put in your password, otherwise it just comes up with the message that an update is required. I have discovered how to resolve this issue that so many people are having problems with! (1) Sign into PSN using your phone or laptop. (2) Go to settings (top right icon)(3) Go to account information (4) Go to top left icon (3 horizontal lines)(5) select security (asks to confirm as it takes you to another page, select "Yes")(6) Scroll down to the bottom of this page and select the "Generate or manage device setup passwords"(7) Now use this password to sign into your account on your PS3.link below for the text file.mega.nz/file/5P5ywaxA#ElS8n7VZ4SMBCJFZrGqp5tEoZx5e6z2TKu0LgXIG1Sw
Does your PS3 turn off when loading high intensive games? Heres the fix! Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-04-21 | Here we see the console boots every game except TLOU. This game utilises the power of the CPU and can put strain on the NEC tokins. we see the game load and then turn off when it's about to go into gameplay. If you get this issue it's highly likely to be a CPU related issue. It is well known that the cell processor is very reliable so any issues relating to the cell processor it's highly likely to be the chips that regulate the power. These chips are the NEC tokins, I scrape away some of the green coating to reveal the copper and add solder to create the ground (negative) for the tantalum capacitors. For the positive we use the rail that the tokins use as a little bit of this sticks out. 3 tantalum capacitors are used, two on the CPU and one on the RSX. The link for part 2 of this video is belowyoutu.be/8hZWU6JN10Y?si=iJgaUe8g4SRPcJGJYou can ow watch me do a full detailed explanation on how to resolve this, link belowyoutu.be/pDwh9bCEyGE?si=nFBtBFK44rKNSbOvThis is all done in real time so you can see the problems you may face. Enjoy the recording!
Does your PS3 turn off when loading high intensive games part 2 Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-04-21 | Sorry everyone! my phone switched off as my video ring doorbell sent me a notification. so in part two we see the console being tested after the tantalums are added, Enjoy!
Playstation 3 Tagging on tantalum caps after pressure mod. Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-04-20 | ...
PS3 CPU de-lid and liquid metal on both CPU and RSX Tim Dark (Reto Consoles ltd) 2022-03-30 | I'm getting a lot of comments, some I have had to delete as they are misinformed.The liquid metal goes on the die and the underside of the heat spreader, the die has no aluminium in it, and neither does the heat spreader as its plated copper. Now, the heat sink is made from aluminium, so that's why on top of the copper plated heat spreader, we put MX4 thermal paste because this makes contact with the heatsink, which is aluminium.So the CPU and GPU die have no aluminium.The heat spreader is made from plated copper, NOT aluminium. So this has no aluminium in it, and this is all the liquid metal makes contact with.So the conclusion is that it's perfectly safe and drops the consoles temperatures considerably.
